MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:
84% DISAPPROVE OF HIGH SCHOOL AND STATE GIRLS’ TENNIS STANCE
By a huge majority (84%), MB Weekly readers voiced their strong disapproval of the current state regulations mandating that a biological (transgender) boy be allowed to play on the Mira Costa High School’s girls’ tennis team and be permitted full locker room privileges.
Send your Comments to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by John Bowes
Ed.D. Superintendent at MBUSD
Federal and state laws, as well as the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) rules governing high school sports, are unequivocal and permit students in all California schools to participate on the sport or athletic team and use locker facilities aligned with their gender identity unless done for an improper purpose (e.g., solely to gain competitive advantage). For those students who would be uncomfortable in the locker room, alternate changing room facilities are provided by the District. MBUSD asks everyone to prioritize and respect the privacy of our students and refrain from sharing names, personal information, photos, or any other private details about them.
Agree? Disagree? Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
Brewco To Shut Doors:
Since its doors opened in 1991, Brewco has become a Manhattan Beach landmark close to the shore. But on Monday, October 16, the laid-back pub will close its doors after 32 years in operation to make room for a more affluent restaurant. From their September 12 Facebook page: “Dear BREWCO Family, After 32 incredible years of serving Manhattan Beach, it is with mixed emotions that we share some news with you. BREWCO, the iconic gastropub by the beach, will be closing its doors on October 16th. We’ve cherished every moment, every story, and every pint shared with you. But, as they say, when one chapter ends, another begins and we have exciting plans for the future of this iconic space. We’ll be undergoing a full renovation and will reemerge as an elevated tavern in early 2024, offering a fresh and innovative dining and social experience. Before we say goodbye, we want to invite you to join us in celebrating the memories we’ve created together. Follow along for farewell festivities and announcements. From the bottom of our hearts, we thank you for being a part of the BREWCO family. You’ve made these 32 years unforgettable, and we can’t wait to create new memories with you in our upcoming venture! Cheers to you, Manhattan Beach!”
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Frank Chiella (Manhattan Beach)
Frank Chiella was a recent candidate for the MB City Council
There is much controversy today about the rights of LGBT students in our public schools. Let me start by stating that we, as parents, must protect and educate our children. This should be true for every parent and guardian, no matter how your child identifies in school. I do not believe it is fair to have biological boys play on girls’ sports teams in school because of physiological sex differences. Suppose it is true that E.D. codes require no discrimination for gender identity. In that case, schools need to provide privacy for students uncomfortable sharing what was supposed to be a locker room for one sex that has now become a mixed-sex locker room. This is our obligation as parents, and our schools need to work with parents to ensure all students, regardless of their choice of sexual identification, are protected from improper situations until they are adults and can make these decisions on their own without parental guidance. Mixed sports, both individual and team, are available for children throughout our school systems. Let our children compete in sports fairly and openly. But we as parents cannot allow a school system to block our obligation to protect our children even when they attend a school to further their education; that is their and our right as parents.
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Set The Table:
Chopped Salad with Prawns.
www.SetTheTableLA.com
Zero-Bail Protocol To Begin In October In Manhattan Beach:
According to a new set of county bail schedules, most suspects detained in Manhattan Beach for non-violent felonies and misdemeanors will be cited or booked before being released, according to the Manhattan Beach Police Department. The Los Angeles County Superior Court adopted the new zero bail policy on July 18, and as a result, all county police agencies are now required to follow the new regulations. On October 1, the new bail protocol is expected to go into force. The Manhattan Beach Police Department said, “While this represents a substantial change in practices for all law enforcement agencies in Los Angeles County, MBPD is committed to the safety and security of our community.” “Zero bail is a disgrace and means more crime for Manhattan Beach, plain and simple,” Luca C., a former South Bay police officer.
Do you approve or disapprove of Zero-Bail? – Send your vote to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Mike Ward of Village Runner
Q: WHEN DID YOU OPEN THE STORE?
A: The Village Runner in Redondo Beach was started in 1984. I purchased the Redondo Store in August of 1992 and opened a second location in Manhattan Beach in May of 2003.
Q: WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE MANHATTAN BEACH AS YOUR LOCATION?
A: Manhattan Beach is a great place to run and play. I enjoyed running in the Manhattan 10K many times in the mid to late 90s. The Village Runner seemed like it would be a good fit for the Manhattan Beach community.
Q: WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE VILLAGE RUNNER STORE?
A: I think that the Village Runner staff is unique in today’s retail environment. They really enjoy working with our customers on a daily basis. They are also all very passionate about running and the community.
Q: WHAT’S THE MOST CHALLENGING PART OF RUNNING YOUR BUSINESS CURRENTLY?
A: Retaining quality staff that is knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate is always a challenge.
Q: WHO IS THE PERFECT CUSTOMER FOR THE VILLAGE RUNNER?
A: Runners of all levels are welcome at the Village Runner. I’m especially pleased when we have somebody who is new to running. Many times, with the proper advice and gear, they end up making life altering choices and becoming avid runners.
Q: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: Shawshank Redemption
www.VillageRunner.com
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Russ Lesser (Manhattan Beach)
Russ Lesser is a former two-term Mayor of Manhattan Beach
I don’t understand why the women’s rights groups are silent on this issue. Think of all the work that went into passing Title 9, giving women equal rights in education and athletics. If more biological men begin competing against biological women, it could end women’s sports. The reality is that sometimes life is not fair. I am left-handed and am banned from playing polo, field hockey, and jai alai. If you are born short, you probably will not play in the NBA, even if basketball is your passion. And, if you are a biological male, you shouldn’t be allowed to compete against a biological woman in sports or go into a woman’s locker room or restroom. This view is shared by many people, including Martina Navratilova, who is gay and says, “Transgender inclusion in sports is insane, and it’s cheating” and Caitlyn Jenner, a transgender woman (who used to be Bruce Jenner, Olympic decathlon champion) agrees, saying, “if you’re a biological boy you shouldn’t be in girls’ sports.”
Agree? Disagree? Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Suzanne Hadley (Manhattan Beach)
Suzanne Hadley is a former Mayor of Manhattan Beach
It’s reported that a biological boy will be playing on the girls’ tennis team this fall at Mira Costa. If true, it will deprive a girl of a coveted spot on the team – and perhaps a future scholarship. I entered high school after the passage of Title IX. Allowing biological boys to play on girls’ teams turns back the clock on this ground-breaking legislation and erases girls and women. World Athletics announced that the association will prohibit athletes who have gone through male puberty from participating in female competitions. I agree with the statement W.A. issued in March 2023: “Decisions are always difficult when they involve conflicting needs and rights between different groups, but we continue to believe that we must maintain fairness for female athletes above all other considerations,” said World Athletics president Sebastian Coe. “We will be guided in this by the science around physical performance and male advantage, which will inevitably develop over the coming years … we believe the integrity of the female category in athletics is paramount.”
Agree? Disagree? Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
Nando Trattoria:
Nando Trattoria’s Catering!
At Nando’s we have a dedicated Catering Team that can help you customize one of our catering packages to your specific needs. Contact us by phone or email and let’s get your order started! Catering orders can be delivered or ordered for pickup.
www.NandoTrattoria.com
MB WEEKLY – RESTAURANT REVIEW: Lunchtime At Fishing With Dynamite by Darby Winston
Fishing With Dynamite, run by General Manager Katie, in downtown Manhattan Beach is a small, hidden gem for seafood lovers, and their lunchtime experience is a must-try. Nestled in a cozy spot, it radiates a Montauk-esque charm that instantly transports you to a coastal haven. The star of the show here is undoubtedly the ever-changing oyster selection. Engage your server for their recommendations, and you’ll be treated to an exquisite assortment of these ocean jewels. The freshness and quality are unparalleled, making this place one of the city’s premier raw bars. For those seeking a more substantial meal, the blue crab roll is a delightful choice. Nestled in a soft milk bun, it’s a harmonious blend of succulent crab meat and delectable flavors. But the real showstopper is the Koshihikari rice porridge. Bursting with shrimp, crab, and uni, this dish is a flavorful symphony, and adding a runny egg yolk elevates it to a whole new level of indulgence. The bright and inviting ambiance adds to the overall appeal of Fishing With Dynamite, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch. Whether you’re a seafood aficionado or just looking for a memorable dining experience, this Manhattan Beach gem will leave a lasting impression. This restaurant is another winner for owner Mike Simms.
Food: A • Service: B • Hospitality: A
www.EatFWD.com
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Lee Phillips
Since the passage of Title IX in 1972, the U.S. government has recognized the need for sex-based (male/female) sports teams. This is because of biological differences that impact athletic performance; even prepubescent males have testosterone advantages compared to females. Males and females cannot fairly physically compete against each other. If competitive sports were not separated by sex, females would rarely be selected for a team or take part in fair and safe sports competitions enjoyed by males. Immutable sex, generally male or female, according to the reproductive organs and functions that derive from chromosomes [generally XX for female and X.Y. for male]. This male/female definition has meaning in women’s sports, especially regarding eligibility for women’s sports. Gender Identity refers to a person’s internal, deeply felt sense of being a man or woman, or something other or in between, which may or may not correspond with the sex assigned at birth. All students should be able to participate in sports; those who identify as transgender are no exception. Instead of trying to place transgender athletes into one-of-two categories, male or female, competitive sports programs should adapt by perhaps separate scoring for individual sports or independent leagues for team sports. I believe female and male athletes have a right to privacy and must be provided with safe, private (single-door) places to change clothes and shower.
Agree? Disagree? Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Christy Taylor Barnes
Recently candidate for School Board
Where are my fellow girl moms? If my daughter played on the high school GIRLS tennis team, and a BOY took my varsity spot … I’d be outraged. My daughter would be outraged. If my daughter safely walked into the girl’s locker room to shower and change, only to be met by a penis walking around, I would be outraged; my daughter would be outraged. Why is this OK, and why are the girls, moms, and dads not speaking up? After meeting with the A.D. in the spring, I understand that Costa needs to comply with CIF, but why are we not fighting this? Why are the REAL girls continuing to play, and why is it OK that this boy made the varsity girl’s team? This is NOT OK. Nor is it OK for any boy to enter a girl’s restroom or locker room because they “identify” as a girl that day. It’s a “girls locker room” for a reason. Costa should create a third division of sports, a co-ed division where boys and girls can play, and it wouldn’t interfere with the girls and boys sports. I have three years until my daughter attends Costa to end this nonsense.
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MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Phil C. (Manhattan Beach)
While I don’t know what directives are coming from the Department of Education, the governor, the state school board, or the state legislature, I know this idea is boneheaded. I don’t care if someone thinks he’s a girl; Mother Nature made him a boy. Boys should not be playing on a girls’ varsity team. It is an unfair biological advantage. Where are the parents in all of this? Why would they let him play on a girls’ team? They must be as confused as he is.
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Skechers Steps Up For Hawaii:
With deep concern for the people of Hawaii, Skechers is mobilizing efforts to provide immediate help to the Lahaina community and the larger Maui population impacted by the island’s recent fires. The lifestyle footwear brand, which lost its store in the Maui Outlets, is launching three efforts: donating $250,000 to the Hawai‘i Community Foundation Maui Strong Fund to support the recovery of affected communities; working towards donating 20,000 pairs of footwear and 20,000 pieces of apparel – in addition to backpacks and socks; and providing essentials including blankets, towels, undergarments, and toiletries through an employee-led contribution at its corporate offices in Los Angeles through work with the Manhattan Beach Mayor Richard Montgomery, and local businesses and community leaders.
MB WEEKLY – CARTOON:
“Once a week but never weakly.”
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Mark Burton (Manhattan Beach)
Mark Burton is the former Mayor of Manhattan Beach
I believe our current MBUSD Board of Trustees is the best I have seen in the last twenty years, and we have had some very talented Boards during that time. Regarding the rights and protections for transgender students in California, our MBUSD Board of Trustees must follow the rule of law. In California schools, transgender students can play on the sports team they choose. California law requires schools to allow students to participate in any sports program and use any facilities, including bathrooms and locker rooms, that match their gender identity. The State Department of Education states, “Transgender students are entitled to and must be provided the same opportunities as all other students to participate in…sports consistent with their gender identity.” Notably, at least twenty other states have laws preventing transgender students from playing on teams that align with their gender identity. Still, California isn’t one of them. Yes, some of our residents may be angry, frustrated, or flummoxed by the consequences of California law, possibly perplexing consequences. But, if you have a problem with the consequences of transgender students playing on sports teams that they chose in our MBUSD schools, then your problem is with the State of California, not the MBUSD, its Board of Trustees, or our transgender students. We all talk about the rule of law and its importance. In this instance, our MBUSD Board of Trustees is following the rule of law. Setting aside any legal analysis, a transgender woman playing women’s sports may be the woman’s issue of our time. I don’t think a transgender woman should be competing with women; it’s just not fair. Although the California state laws may be well-intentioned, they were not well thought out, and they went way too far when they gave the right to a transgender woman to use the same showers and bathrooms. That’s just outrageous. Please take the time to write to your state representatives and ask for a change in the law to support women.
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WANTED – MB WEEKLY VIDEO HOST:
MB Weekly is looking for a video host to do videos for our popular weekly publication. Must be good on camera, enthused about the area, and capable with mobile phone video editors. Contact: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:
SHOULD ADULT WEBSITES BE REQUIRED TO VERIFY THE AGE OF THEIR VISITORS?
Please share your comment with thousands and thousands of your neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities.
Yes. No. Unsure. Send Your Reply To: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
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MB – BULLETIN BOARD:
1. ** 2,500 line El Segundo’s Main Street to cheer Little League World Series champs. Wow! —- Blaine C., El Segundo
2. ** I’m a woman in my late 30s. I live in Hermosa Beach, and residents tend to be judgmental. For as long as I can remember, I have always found people of both sexes attractive. I don’t act on it because I am married to a straight man I love and plan to stay with for as long as he’ll have me. —- Name withheld by request, Hermosa Beach
3. ** Went to Del Amo mall yesterday and today. Police and security guards are everywhere. I felt safe. Please help merchants and preserve our mall. If not, the scum has won. —- Name withheld by request, Manhattan Beach
4. ** The very act of documenting one’s life digitally constrains development of an authentic identity. —- Glenn S., Manhattan Beach
5. ** Nearly a third of K-12 students statewide were chronically absent in 2020-21, more than three times the pre-pandemic rate. —- Mia E., Manhattan Beach
6. ** Being a mediocre male athlete shouldn’t be an excuse for you to dominate female sports. —- Darcy P. Manhattan Beach
7. ** In the South Bay, Redondo Beach’s Fatto a Mano, The Pasta Shop earned top honors among Roman-style joints, while Prime Pizza in El Segundo is beloved for its Sicilian style slices. —- Editor’s Note
8. ** A split-second kiss during a soccer victory celebration last month sparked a political frenzy in Spain and a global media frenzy. After weeks of protest, Luis Rubiales, the president of Spain’s soccer association, resigned on Sunday. Their decision dashed the possibility of a human future with exuberance and common sense. —- Hillary C., Manhattan Beach
9. ** Zoe is a great waitress at Mercado! —- Julian R., Manhattan Beach
10. ** Young men today feel they must be six feet tall, make six figures, and have six inches downstairs to get a girlfriend – so many have given up trying. —- Bryan E., Manhattan Beach
11. ** Senator Feinstein is a disaster. I am so embarrassed for her and her family! —- Cindy C., Manhattan Beach
12. ** Kamala butters up Biden but declares she’s ready. A python always slathers its victim in saliva before swallowing it hole. —- Garrison P., Manhattan Beach
13. ** In politics, I’m sick and tired of older people with old ideas, old grudges, and old arguments. Same ole, same ole, ad infinitum. —- Ezra L., Manhattan Beach
14. ** You Can Be Addicted to Weed. I Was When I Was 12. Boomers who fought for legalization have no idea how dangerous it is. —- Charlotte R., Manhattan Beach
15. ** Happiness doesn’t come from big pieces of success but from small, daily achievements. —- Joshua G., Manhattan Beach
16. ** Congratulations, MB Weekly. Finally, an unbiased publication in the South Bay. —- Holly G., Manhattan Beach
17. ** About half of Americans ages 18-39 cannot identify Auschwitz or any other Nazi death camp, even though most can probably explain preferred pronouns, intersectionality, racism, and sexism. —- Wally N., Manhattan Beach
18. ** Lock your car every time you exit. I missed a night recently. I found my passenger seat filled with all those extra napkins from the glove box. So what did they take? My car manuals case! –My first thought was no value, but what an inconvenience! Then I realized that these things can be sold. Live and learn. —- Dave Harris, Manhattan Beach
19. ** Disapprove big-time of biological boys in the women’s locker room. —- Joyce E., Manhattan Beach
20. ** Dario is a very charming restaurant owner. —- Suzanne Rogers Karger, Board of Directors, Mychal’s Learning Place
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