MB WEEKLY:
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH
CATHEY GRAVES
MBUSD Board of Education President
Q: WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF BEING BOARD PRESIDENT OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: As Board President of MBUSD, I work with my colleagues to develop a vision and board goals each year. We use these goals to direct the work of the superintendent and his administrative team, both short-term and long-term. Unfortunately, effective planning is dependent on a reliable funding source, and California’s education funding, which is based on state tax revenue, fluctuates significantly from year to year, making it difficult to develop programming and retain teachers with any certainty. This is why local funding sources, like the Measure MB parcel tax, which is on the ballot for renewal this March 5, are so important to MBUSD.
Q: WHAT HAS BEEN THE MOST SATISFYING ASPECT OF YOUR POSITION?
A: I have enjoyed working with community members, as well as an exceptional group of administrators and board colleagues, who listen, care, and truly want to make a difference in the lives of the students in our district. It is refreshing to see decisions made without regard to politics but instead focused on student excellence and well-being.
Q: ARE YOU PLEASED WITH THE EDUCATIONAL PROGRESS OF THE MANHATTAN BEACH SCHOOLS?
A: Absolutely. First and foremost, as a parent of 4 children, I can personally attest to the excellence of the education my children received in MBUSD schools, which created the foundation for their studies and work ethic in college and career. I am pleased that Manhattan Beach schools continue to be recognized for their academic excellence. This past year, our youngest students made improvements in math, and English Language Arts (ELA) metrics in state testing. More students than ever before took honors and AP classes at Mira Costa and passed those classes. We continue to see progress in special education, where we far outperform the state average in standardized tests with the implementation of evidence-based best practices. Our enrollment is increasing and absences are declining, bucking state and national trends. This year, we implemented additional intervention, review, and enrichment opportunities for our students, as well as increased professional development and collaboration time for teachers, and we are excited to see the impact those efforts will have on student academic growth in the coming years.
Q: IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WOULD HAVE DONE DIFFERENTLY REGARDING THE RECENT “HATE SPEECH” INCIDENT IN MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: The incident that you reference gave MBUSD an opportunity to deepen its commitment to ensuring a safe and supportive school environment for all students. We have worked with local faith communities, including many Temples and Synagogues, the ADL, the Council on American-Islamic Relations, parents, students, and community leaders to create lesson plans and model anti-bullying efforts which we believe will make our students better citizens, parents, workers, and leaders in the complex, rapidly changing world they will inherit. I am deeply grateful for the support of so many, and I know their insights and sensitivity will help guide our work moving forward.
Q: WHAT IS YOUR ASTROLOGY SIGN?
A: Virgo
Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: I love historical fiction, and so count Hidden Figures and Schindler’s List amongst my favorite movies. My favorite Disney movie is Mulan.
Q: WHAT BOOK MOST IMPACTED YOUR LIFE?
A: I love the strong women characters in books like The Red Tent by Anita Diamant and more recently Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See.
www.MBUSD.org
MB WEEKLY – EXCLUSIVE VIDEO INTERVIEW PART TWO:
Russ Lesser Interview Part 02
https://youtu.be/BnIWXV5a1kc
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Sarah Simms
Third Generation Simms
Q: CONGRATULATIONS ON THE KETTLE’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY. DID YOU EVER IMAGINE YOU’D HIT THE 50-YEAR MARK IN THE EARLY DAYS?
A: 50 is certainly a big milestone, especially in the restaurant industry. I started contributing to the restaurant about 20 years ago because the opportunity to work alongside my Dad (Scott P Simms) and our longtime team there was something I knew was a very special opportunity. You’d have to ask my Uncle Tom (Simms) about his feelings about the “early days” as he was present the day the Kettle was purchased, but from what I’ve come to know in my lifetime, is that The Kettle would be here as long as there was a community to support it and a very passionate group of people to run it. The history in these walls and the energy that lives in the building – it’s all very special.
Q: WHAT IS THE SECRET SAUCE THAT MAKES THE KETTLE WORK SO WELL?
A: The secret sauce is 100% our team – they are how we are able to do what we do. We have the best staff in the front and back of house. Also, we are a true family business. My grandfather (Arthur J Simms) and Uncle Tom (Simms) started the magic back in the ’70s and my father (Scott P Simms) dedicated his life to running The Kettle and leading such an incredible team including our longtime kitchen manager, Florentino Pelayo and general manager, Jeff Byron.
Q: WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF RUNNING THE KETTLE?
A: Serving 3 meal periods (breakfast, lunch and dinner) all day every day (almost) 24/7. Our kitchen prep team is a well-oiled machine and there is always action happening but we love that you can come in at 9 p.m. on a Thursday and have Eggs Benedict or a stack of Banana Pancakes if that’s what you are in the mood for.
Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE THING TO EAT AT THE KETTLE?
A: Depends on the time of day but the things that feel the most iconic and have been steady loves throughout my life are probably the French Onion Soup, Honey Bran Muffins and Fried Zucchini with all the house made dressings for dipping – 1000 island, avocado buttermilk ranch, honey mustard, etc.
Q: THOUGH PROPHECY IS DUBIOUS BUSINESS, DO YOU BELIEVE THE KETTLE WILL BE AROUND FOR ANOTHER 50 YEARS?
A: Only time will tell 🙂
Q: WILL THE KETTLE EVER BE OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY AGAIN?
A: We are currently open “24 hours” on Friday & Saturday and then we are open until midnight Sunday-Thursday, we reopen daily at 6 a.m. for breakfast each day. Our #1 priority will always be the well-being and safety of our staff and when we make decisions about our hours they don’t happen without lots of conversation and input from our community and team. For now, this is the best plan of action but we are constantly adjusting and evolving so never say never!
Q: IS THANKSGIVING YOUR BUSIEST DAY OF THE YEAR? HOW MANY TURKEYS DO YOU SELL DURING THANKSGIVING?
A: It certainly is one of them. We sell close to 1,000 Thanksgiving dinners in addition to offering our full regular menu – it is a super fun day – we truly have the best patrons and community here in the South Bay and beyond.
www.TheKettle.net
Pandemic Puppies In Manhattan Beach Pose Puzzling Predicament – Dog Bites Surge, Prompting Public Health Concern:
The adorable pandemic puppies that brought joy during lockdowns are now causing a public health concern. The Emergency Rooms and hospitals in the area have witnessed a staggering 70% increase in dog bite-related visits compared to 2005, with 41 E.R. visits or hospitalizations recorded in 2022 alone. While the pandemic led to a surge in pet adoptions, the consequences are becoming apparent as these once tiny, adorable puppies grow into energetic and sometimes unruly dogs. Experts speculate that changes in routines, socialization issues, and the increased presence of dogs in public spaces might contribute to the rise in dog bites. Authorities are urging pet owners to prioritize proper training and socialization to prevent future incidents, spotlighting the unexpected consequences of the pandemic puppy boom.
The Rockefeller:
Burger Tuesdays – Tuesdays 3 p.m.
Join The Rockefeller for Burger Tuesday, gourmet burgers for $2 bucks at all locations starting at 3 p.m. (until we run out!). Our chef rotates the burger recipe each month, using only the highest quality ingredients. See you every Tuesday for the best deal in the South Bay!
*with purchase of a beverage $6 or more *no takeout, not available on Holidays
www.EatRockeFeller.com
MB WEEKLY READER POLL:
52% FEEL S&P TO BE UP
OVER 10% IN THE NEW YEAR
In the latest MB Weekly Reader Poll, financial optimism prevails as 52% of respondents anticipate the S&P to surge by 10% or more by the close of 2024. The survey, conducted among diverse investors who are readers of MB Weekly, reflects a bullish sentiment despite economic uncertainties. Analysts attribute this confidence to favorable market trends and promising indicators.
Agree? Disagree? Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
CRIME IN MANHATTAN BEACH:
On Jan. 29, police responded to Red Carpet Carwash due to a report of an assault with a deadly weapon. According to witnesses, a homeless man argued with a car wash employee before lunging at the employee with a knife. The homeless man fled after the altercation, but police located and arrested him a short time later. The victim was not injured, police said.
MB WEEKLY – RESTAURANT REVIEW:
by Darby Winston
Reborn Coffee
Reborn Coffee in Manhattan Village, Manhattan Beach, is an outrageously expensive disappointment. With a tea priced at $5.50 and obligatory tipping, it feels like a blatant cash grab. The staff’s unfriendliness rivals that of a fast-food joint, making Starbucks seem like a welcoming haven, even at double the price. I ordered the blueberry matcha with oat milk on my second visit, hoping for a unique experience. However, the drink tasted like plain milk, showcasing the lack of quality ingredients. Reborn Coffee fails on multiple fronts, from the highly lackluster staff to subpar drinks. I won’t be back.
Coffee/Tea: C • Price: F • Atmosphere: D
www.RebornCoffee.com
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Speakin’ up in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to send your photo to MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
Lisa’s Naturals:
NEED A VALENTINE PRESENT?
This Valentine’s Day, try Lisa’s Natural’s “All Natural Handmade Box Of Goodies” including a Candle, Loofah Soap, Bath Bombs, Lip Soap and Mineral Bath Salts & a Lip Balm (Cult Favorite). ALL FOR JUST $55 DOLLARS!
Call Lisa to ship anywhere in the U.S. or Delivered Locally.
Instagram.com/LisasNaturals
Call: 424.234.6080
Email: Lisasnaturals@icloud.com
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Dr. Lisa P. (Manhattan Beach)
It’s time to clean your damn water bottle. Reusable water bottles are a popular choice for staying hydrated while reducing environmental impact, but neglecting to clean them can lead to health risks. Mold, thriving in moist environments, poses a concern when water sits in a bottle for an extended period. Dr. Wanda Phipatanakul, an immunologist, warns that mold spores from the air and pipes can settle and multiply in stagnant water. Various types of mold, such as Cladosporium, Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Stachybotrys, may colonize neglected bottles, exhibiting different colors and appearances. Regular cleaning is crucial to prevent the formation of a moldy haven inside your bottle. Not only does mold compromise the bottle’s integrity, but it also poses potential health hazards. To maintain the benefits of reusable bottles and avoid the pitfalls of mold, it’s essential to adopt proper cleaning practices, ensuring a hygienic and safe hydration experience.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MB WEEKLY – READER COMMENT:
I am writing to express my sincere appreciation for MB Weekly, a beacon of fearless independent and unbiased journalism that embodies our community’s spirit. The publication’s unwavering commitment to presenting a comprehensive view of Manhattan Beach and the South Bay is commendable. Its refreshing attitude and spirit capture the diverse facets of our neighborhoods. MB Weekly has rightfully earned its popularity, living up to the grand slogan, “once a weekly but never weakly.” Thank you for consistently delivering quality news and information that resonate with the essence of our community. —- Mia L., Manhattan Beach
“SLAY THE MONDAY BLUES”
with Pizza Bliss at Slay Italian Kitchen’s Extravaganza in Manhattan Beach
Indulge in a weekly slice of happiness at Slay Italian Kitchen’s Pizza Party Extravaganza every Monday in downtown Manhattan Beach. For just $20, snag your preferred pizza, whether you’re relishing the ambiance indoors or grabbing a delicious to-go treat. Slay Italian Kitchen transforms mundane Mondays into a gastronomic celebration, ensuring the aroma of melting cheese and flavorful toppings captivate every passerby. Don’t miss the chance to turn your Monday into a mouthwatering experience with this unbeatable deal that promises to make pizza nights unforgettable.
www.SlayItalianKitchen.com
** Former Manhattan Beach Mayor Bob Holmes, having dinner at SLAY Steak + Fish House.
DA Candidates United Against Gascon In South Bay:
At a debate Saturday, January 13, at the Peninsula Center Library, four of the 11 Los Angeles County District Attorney candidates criticized incumbent George Gascon for his liberal views. All said Gascon’s policies increased crime and made neighborhoods less safe. The 66th Assembly District Republican Central Committee sponsored the forum. Chairwoman Janice Webb stated Gascon neglected to attend. March 5 is the nonpartisan District Attorney primary. The top two vote-getters will compete in November if no candidate receives more than 50% of the vote.
WHO READS MB WEEKLY?
City Councilman David Lesser along with countless neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities.
Sign Up to Receive MB Weekly for FREE. Visit
www.MBWeekly.net
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Jessica C. (Manhattan Beach)
The scars of betrayal ran deep between my brother and me, etched into our once unbreakable bond by the corrosive influence of drugs. As the specter of addiction engulfed him in his teenage years, right here in Manhattan Beach, our paths diverged. The painful truth, long denied, emerged: he was the one who pilfered my cherished jewelry, a tangible casualty sacrificed at the altar of his addiction. Though he has had to tread the challenging path of recovery for nearly three decades, his remorseful apologies have circled everyone but me. The festering wounds refuse to heal. The dilemma of facing him at family gatherings, the unspeakable disgust welling within, paralyzes me. Confrontation seems futile, a potential spark for his defensive onslaught. The question lingers: endure the silent torment of shared spaces or sever ties to shield my wounded heart from further harm? Let me just put it this way: our last Thanksgiving, including a God-awful walk on the pier, was hell!
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MB WEEKLY – CARTOON:
“It’s an app where you can record all the acorns you try and also see what acorns your friends in Manhattan Beach are eating.”
MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:
SHOULD THE MANHATTAN BEACH POLICE DEPARTMENT ENCOURAGE PEOPLE TO PUT AIRTAGS IN THEIR VEHICLES?
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)
A CHANCE IN A LIFETIME IN A LIFETIME OF CHANCE:
Prominent award-winning Branding and P.R. firm seeks Video Intern (flexible hours). Approximately 15 – 20 hours a week. Excellent knowledge and opportunity. Must be smart, very reliable, very detail-oriented, resourceful, modestly tech-savvy and a self-starter. Benefits: Mentorship and leadership skills.
www.BoundlessMediaUSA.com
Contact Amanda Kent:
Careers@BoundlessMediaUSA.com
1. ** A day on the 101 in L.A. Lawlessness. Sheriff’s control is lost. —- Tony P., Manhattan Beach
2. ** Artificial Intelligence will be allowed to function until it convinces people that term limits is our salvation. —- Rory C., Manhattan Beach
3. ** You have probably heard by now, but despite the Mark Burton misinformation, the sewer/stormwater assessment increase passed by a decent margin and would have done so even if the City did not vote yes with their parcels. Mr. Burton continues his tradition of being on the losing end. —- Bob H., Manhattan Beach
4. ** Former Councilperson Hadley’s comment [1/18/2024] is right on target…simple, concise, and to the point. MB doesn’t pay taxes; WE DO! Our vote should be the only vote! —- Fred T., Manhattan Beach
5. ** For 40 years, I’ve walked, run, and played on the beach with my children and now, grandchildren, I’ve been concerned about stormwater runoff and the damage it causes. This now firmly funds efforts in the future to help keep debris and harmful bacteria from the beach and ocean. —- Joe Franklin, Mayor, Manhattan Beach
6. ** Suppose you’re rushing to the airport and forget your photo I.D. Good luck being allowed on the plane. But many illegal migrants without “an acceptable form of identification,” according to airport signs, don’t need a photo. They get special treatment. —- Oliva D., Hermosa Beach
7. ** I love the Portofino Hotel in Redondo Beach. —- Nancy A., Hermosa Beach
8. ** If you vote to reelect District Attorney George Gascon, you must have a deep masochistic psychological need. —- Dr. Roland S., Manhattan Beach
9. ** Meet Amin Husain. Amin is an adjunct professor at NYU, teaching a course on “art and activism.” He also gave a talk last month at The New School, where he denied some of Hamas’s recent atrocities in Israel. A video shows Husain speaking at a “teach-in” organized by Students for Justice in Palestine at The New School. “We know it’s not true,” he says of evidence that women were raped and babies were beheaded on October 7. During his speech on the “Palestinian liberation struggle,” Husain also declares that New York is a “Zionist city” and jokes that he has “won the honors of antisemitic multiple times.” In other words, Husain is precisely the person who should mold young minds at $60,000-per-year NYU. —- Arnold R., Manhattan Beach
10. ** Stupid me for going to Scott Robinson Honda for a leak check. They tell me I need a new transmission. I was suspicious because my car had over 70k miles yet was in excellent shape. It was checked by a transmission shop and found to be okay. No leaks. Excellent condition. I was warned not to trust the dealership, but I didn’t. Of course, I was wrong. Attention: Never trust dealerships. Ever! —- Lowell W., Manhattan Beach
11. ** Museums nationwide have been under increasingly shrill and uncompromising native campaigns laced with charges of racism, white supremacy, colonialism and all the rest. —- Clara T., Manhattan Beach
12. ** I love Burning Man! —- Candace H., Manhattan Beach
13. ** I dreamed I had sex with Calista Flockhart. —- Darren H., Manhattan Beach
14. ** Lia Thomas is one really sick dude. —- Amelia B., Manhattan Beach
15. ** The Los Angeles Times will be out of business in less than five years. Amen! —- Amy R., Manhattan Beach
16. ** Who should decide how a child is educated? Their school or their parents? An education union or their parents? Elected politicians or their parents? —- Jasser B., Manhattan Beach
17. ** Has anyone visited Pier Ave, Hermosa Chipotle recently? I used to love Chipotle. I was shocked by how filthy it was! Waste piled up on the floors and nasty glass partitions. After seeing the dirty surfaces, I was hesitant to eat my salad. Puke! —- Olivia D., Hermosa Beach
18. ** If you’ve not read Claudine Gay’s resignation letter from Harvard, you really should. Rather than take responsibility for minimizing anti-Semitism, committing serial plagiarism, and horribly damaging the institution, she instead (of course) calls her critics “racist” (Natch). This is the poison of the DEI ideology. —- Dr. Christopher R., Manhattan Beach
19. ** This week, the Hermosa Beach City Council voted to substantially increase parking permits for the three lots closest to the coast. The council increased the general monthly 12-hour pass for those lots from $38 to $150, while the 24-hour pass went from $75 to $250. (The so-called 12-hour passes span 14 hours, from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m.) —- Editor’s Note
20. ** Holy Sh-t! Pure Bean Coffee in Manhattan Beach is so expensive. —- Arnold R., Manhattan Beach
21. ** This fiscal year, 169 people from the terror watchlist have been apprehended at the border. Securing our southern border is an issue of national security and community safety. It will be my first, second, and third priority. —- Douglas B., Manhattan Beach
22. ** It remains unclear if Jennifer Hanie washed ashore in Manhattan Beach. Initial information from the scene indicated that the body was located off the coast, near the 1300 block of the beach’s water line. —- Gail F., Manhattan Beach
23. ** Polliwog Park is often threatened by developers who cannot find other open spaces. —- Luna P., Manhattan Beach
24. ** I hate Barbie! —- Noah G., Manhattan Beach
25. ** The USSC Chief Justice earns $258,100 annually. The House Speaker earns $193,400. A U.S. senator earns $174,000. At $273,180.72 Hermosa Beach City Manager Suja Lowenthal earns more than $ them. She received a $18,000 incentive for mismanaging a 1.4-square-mile community of 19,000 people. Wondering what the City Council is thinking? —- Mateo V., Hermosa Beach
Comment / Hire / Share / Promote / Barter / Discuss
The MB Weekly Free Bulletin Board is your place to communicate for free with thousands and thousands of your neighbors in Manhattan Beach. Send your message (maximum 50 words) to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
MB Weekly Disclaimer: 1.) MB Weekly accepts no liability for the content of this email, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided. MB Weekly is not associated with any commercial or political organization and is transmitted via the web for the sole benefit of its subscribers. 2.) Unfortunately, computer viruses can be transmitted via email.