TIGHTENING THE BELT:
MB FINANCIAL WATCHDOG UNVEILS “THE WAFER PLEDGE” AHEAD OF CITY COUNCIL RACE
With the November City Council election on the horizon, MB Financial watchdog Paul Wafer has thrown down a fiscal gauntlet, announcing what he calls “The Wafer Pledge” – a two-part litmus test for earning its endorsement and vote. Under the pledge, only candidates who commit to immediate, measurable reform will receive support. First, candidates must promise to push for at least a 10% reduction in the city’s current operational budget, implemented over one year. The goal: free up funding for long-delayed capital improvements while avoiding new taxes, fees, or property assessments. Second, candidates must pledge to restore a permanent two-term limit for all City Council members, a move supporters say would curb complacency and encourage fresh leadership. Wafer argues that the city government has grown too comfortable with rising costs and too reluctant to demand accountability from management, staff, and elected officials alike. The Wafer Pledge is designed to reverse that culture. “If voters believe meaningful change is needed at City Hall, this is the moment to demand it,” urging residents to press candidates directly on whether they will take the pledge. As the campaign season heats up, The Wafer Pledge is likely to sharpen contrasts between candidates – and put fiscal discipline squarely at the center of the debate.
Call For Legends – Mira Costa Opens 2026 Distinguished Alumni Nominations:
Nominations are now open for the 2026 Distinguished Alumni Hall of Fame at Mira Costa High School, the school’s alum association announced. Since the program began in 2012, more than 70 graduates have been honored for exceptional achievements and meaningful contributions after graduation. The deadline to submit nominations is March 15. Honorees will be inducted this fall during a formal Hall of Fame ceremony, where Mira Costa staff, students, and fellow alums will celebrate their impact on society. Community members are encouraged to nominate accomplished alums whose work exemplifies Mustang pride and leadership beyond the campus.
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Paula Tabalipa
(Tabalipa Wine / Founder)
Q: TABALIPA ROSÉ IS DEEPLY CONNECTED TO THE LAND. CAN YOU DESCRIBE A MOMENT IN THE VINEYARD WHEN YOU TRULY FELT THAT BOND BETWEEN SOIL, VINE, AND WINE?
A: The very first moment I stepped onto the land, I felt an immediate connection. It brought me back to my roots and awakened a deep curiosity – to listen, to learn, to understand the language of the vineyard. It was love at first sight and the beginning of a journey I knew I needed to explore.
Q: YOU CHOSE TO FOCUS ON LIMITED-PRODUCTION ROSÉ, WHICH IS BOTH INTENTIONAL AND A LITTLE DARING. WHAT DREW YOU TO ROSÉ AS YOUR PRIMARY EXPRESSION, AND WHAT DOES IT ALLOW YOU TO SAY THAT OTHER WINES DON’T?
A: When we acquired the vineyard, all 18 acres were planted to Syrah. I had learned from a friend that the previous owner had made an incredible rosé as a wedding gift, and that inspired me to start there. At the time, launching with rosé made sense – it ages for about seven months, while our estate red required much more time. It allowed us to introduce the vineyard while patiently working toward the red. Since then, so much has evolved. We’ve grafted the vineyard, added new varietals, and most recently launched our Sauvignon Blanc, which I absolutely love.
Q: LIVING LIFE VINEYARD IS SUSTAINABLY FARMED. HOW DOES SUSTAINABILITY INFLUENCE NOT JUST HOW YOU GROW GRAPES, BUT HOW YOU THINK ABOUT LEGACY AND STEWARDSHIP?
A: For me, sustainability is about care. It’s about listening to the land, moving with its rhythm, and making thoughtful, intentional choices. Legacy isn’t about size – it’s about respect, responsibility, and leaving something meaningful behind.
Q: YOUR BRAND CELEBRATES FOOD, WINE, AND CONVERSATION. WHAT DOES THE PERFECT TABALIPA MOMENT LOOK LIKE TO YOU – WHO’S THERE, WHAT’S ON THE TABLE, AND WHAT’S BEING TALKED ABOUT?
A: A perfect Tabalipa moment is simple: great people, deep conversations, lots of laughter, incredible food, and of course, a glass of wine shared together.
Q: “EMBRACING THE ART OF LIVING WELL” IS CENTRAL TO YOUR PHILOSOPHY. HOW HAS BUILDING TABALIPA CHANGED THE WAY YOU PERSONALLY SLOW DOWN, SAVOR LIFE, AND DEFINE SUCCESS?
A: It always comes back to the land – the rhythm and cycle of the vines. Winemaking requires patience, presence, and trust in time. Success, for me, is creating something meaningful that reflects who I am and how I choose to live.
Q: WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
A: I was born in Brazil, but I’ve spent most of my life in California – and I couldn’t have chosen a better place to call home.
Q: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: That’s a tough question because I have many, but Il Postino has always stayed with me. It’s poetic, deeply human, and very much aligned with how I think about wine and life.
www.TabalipaWineCo.com
Lido Di Manhattan:
WINEMAKER DINNER
25TH FEBRUARY | $99/PERSON | STARTING 6 PM
Lido di Manhattan invites you to a one-night-only Winemaker Dinner featuring Girard Winery and hosted by Chris Sebastiani, Owner & GM.
1550 Rosecrans Ave | (310) 536-0730 | www.LidoDiManhattan.com
FORMER MAYORS OF MANHATTAN BEACH RESPOND TO SUZANNE HADLEY HOME INVASION:
** BOB HOLMES (former Mayor of Manhattan Beach): First, very sorry that Suzanne had to go through this disturbing experience. We are fortunate to have a good local police department that responds quickly. Many will disagree with my next comment, but I have a Smith and Wesson .357 magnum handy in case their response is not quick enough for my safety.
** WAYNE POWELL (former Mayor of Manhattan Beach): Nobody should be subjected to such an ordeal. Thank goodness for the rapid response by our exemplary police. While Manhattan Beach is a reasonably safe city, no city is totally immune from crime. Crime prevention measures such as perimeter lighting and a monitored alarm system (including glass break sensors) can reduce/mitigate the risk of break-ins. I believe our city would greatly benefit by utilizing foot and bicycle police patrols, as well as having more police officers and less administrators.
MB WEEKLY – HISTORY:
On Wednesday, February 14, 1962, the Manhattan Beach Police Department suffered a heartbreaking loss. Officer Richard Timothy Giles, just 29 years old, was killed in the line of duty. Moments earlier, he had been speaking with his best friend and fellow officer, Keith Basset. Then came the call. Officer Giles mounted his motorcycle and pursued a speeding vehicle down Sepulveda Boulevard. At Sixth Street, a car made a sudden left turn directly into his path. The collision was devastating. He suffered a broken neck and severe internal injuries. Rushed to South Bay Hospital, six doctors and three nurses worked for four hours to save him. Despite their efforts, Officer Giles passed away. A former employee of Douglas Aircraft Company, he joined MBPD on December 1, 1958, and the motorcycle division in 1961. He left behind a devoted wife and two young sons – and a grateful community that still remembers.
https://www.manhattanbeach.gov/departments/police-department
THE MB WHISPERER:
by Melanie C.
***Which current City Council member recently said that the School Board in Manhattan Beach had gone “off the rails?” ***If the downtown restaurant Love and Salt put the tables any closer together, customers literally wouldn’t be able to get up to go to the bathroom. ***Losing Peet’s Coffee downtown was a big loss. So was the newsstand. ***Isn’t it interesting that our City Councilman Steve Charelian, who was the City’s former Financial Director, is so silent on the City’s “generous” payroll? ***What are the odds that the Escalators at Metlox will ever properly function? ***Have a tip for The MB Whisperer, send it to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
South Bay Classical Academy:
RSVP for School Launch Event Saturday, February 28
While other schools chase trends, we’re returning to what works. South Bay Classical Academy opens Fall 2026 in Hawthorne, forming students of strong character, clear thinking, and civic virtue through time-tested methods.
RSVP for a School Launch Event
Enrollment for Grades K-5 opens Soon
4755 W 130th St. Hawthorne, CA 90250
www.SouthBayClassical.org
Manhattan Beach Sets National Gold Standard For Well-Being:
Manhattan Beach has officially become the healthiest community ever measured by Gallup. The city posted a remarkable 71.6 score on the 2025 Gallup National Health and Well-Being Index (WBI), the highest community score recorded since the index began in 2008. The milestone helped lift Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach to a combined historic high of 69.5, far above the national average of 60.1, according to the Beach Cities Health District. Gallup’s WBI measures career, community, financial, physical, and social well-being.
MB WEEKLY – Q&A:
Ryan Stybel, O.D.
(Owner of Look Optometry)
Q: WHAT’S THE FUNNIEST EXCUSE YOU’VE EVER HEARD FROM SOMEONE WHO CLEARLY NEEDED GLASSES BUT SWORE THEY DIDN’T?
A: Buying a bigger tv instead of getting glasses.
Q: MANHATTAN BEACH LIFESTYLE QUESTION: BEACH, SCREENS, OR AGING – WHAT’S DOING THE MOST DAMAGE TO OUR EYES RIGHT NOW?
A: Not protecting from the sun is still the greatest risk for health/damage. For overall vision, definitely screens. The incidence of Myopia (or near-sightedness, where distance images are blurry) is skyrocketing most likely due to screens and less outdoor time. We estimate that by the year 2050, half of the world’s population will be Myopic.
Q: IF YOU WEREN’T AN OPTOMETRIST, WHAT JOB DO YOU THINK YOUR PERSONALITY WAS DESTINED FOR INSTEAD?
A: Marine biologist.
Q: WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
A: Michigan (metro-Detroit)
Q: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: Shawshank Redemption
LookMB.com
Rock’N Fish:
$10.95 HAPPY HOUR |Monday-Friday | 3PM-5PM
*Not available during holidays & special events
120 Manhattan Beach Blvd. | (310) 379-9900 | www.RockNFish.com
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Russ Lesser (Former MB Mayor)
I agree with much of what this unknown former elected official says, especially about conservative people who can’t understand why far left people can’t see how socialism has failed every time it has been tried. However I don’t think all liberal people think conservatives are evil, only the far left. John Kennedy (“Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country”) would not recognize today’s Democratic Party and Ronald Reagan would not recognize some of the positions of today’s Republican Party.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
Estell Boutique:
Beautiful style, real-life utility. Curated by owner Stella Shirman, Estell Boutique brings together European and American designers known for easy style, flattering fits, and unique details – because looking good shouldn’t feel like work.
912-A Manhattan Ave. | (310) 985-7717 | www.EstellBoutiques.com
Manhattan Beach Takes Policing Sky-High With Drone First Responder Program:
The Manhattan Beach Police Department is officially taking public safety to new heights. The Manhattan Beach City Council unanimously approved a two-year, $300,000 agreement with Flock Group, Inc. to launch a Drone as First Responder (DFR) program. The system enables drones to be dispatched directly from the Watch Commander’s Office to critical incidents, including priority 911 calls, search-and-rescue missions, high-risk operations, and large public events. The move represents a significant upgrade over current drone practices, which require officers to deploy equipment from patrol vehicles manually. Lieutenant Justin Hidalgo, who oversees the department’s unmanned aircraft systems, said the traditional method provides information only after incidents are underway, limiting its impact on initial response times. During a 10-hour demonstration with Flock, MBPD responded to 14 calls for service with an average response time of two minutes and 17 seconds. Drones arrived first 93% of the time. Officials say response times could improve further with Live911 integration, allowing launches even before dispatch formally creates a CAD incident.
Bruxie on Rosecrans:
Craveworthy Comfort Food
2181 Rosecrans Ave B, El Segundo
www.Bruxie.com
Kindness Wanted – MB Weekly Puts Out The Call For Good Deeds Across Manhattan Beach:
MB Weekly is launching a new community initiative to shine a light on everyday kindness that often goes unnoticed. From small gestures to meaningful moments, acts of generosity and compassion happen daily throughout Manhattan Beach – and MB Weekly wants to hear about them. The MB Weekly Kindness Search invites residents to share stories of good deeds they’ve done, experienced, or witnessed recently. Whether it’s a neighbor lending a hand, a stranger offering unexpected help, or a simple act that brightens someone’s day, no moment is too small to matter. According to MB Weekly co-editor Darby Winston, the idea is simple but powerful. “It’s never too late to be kinder than necessary,” Winston said. Submissions are open now, and community members are encouraged to send their stories directly to MBWeekly@TimeWire.net. Selected stories may be featured in upcoming editions. In a world often dominated by bad news, MB Weekly hopes this effort reminds readers that kindness is alive, well, and right next door.
BELLA BUILDERS:
A Local Residential Builder
Vinny, 38-years experience / 20-year Rotary member
ADU’s and New Homes – Manhattan Beach and The Palisades
Full Service From Concept To Completion
www.BeautifulBuilder.com | www.FirewiseHomes.com
Vinny@beautifulbuilder.com | (310) 809-4999
Hawthorne Man Busted In Nancy Guthrie Kidnap Hoax Freed Before Trial:
A Hawthorne man accused of sending fake ransom texts to the family of kidnapping victim Nancy Guthrie has been released from federal custody – even as serious charges loom. Derrick Callella, 42, appeared in federal court in Tucson on February 12, where prosecutors allege he transmitted a ransom demand across state lines and used a telecommunications device to threaten or harass anonymously, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Despite the allegations, Callella was released under pre-trial restrictions following the hearing. He refused to speak to reporters outside the courthouse, according to local stations KOLD and KVOA. A spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona confirmed his release in a statement.
Harris & Associates:
A professional wealth advisor may help you get ready for your very best years.
(310) 318-3700 | info@harrisadvisory.com | www.HarrisAdvisory.com
SPEAK UP … In MB Weekly’s FREE Bulletin Board:
Tell all of your South Bay neighbors what is really on YOUR mind. Join the conversation. Talk to all your neighbors in the South Bay for FREE In the MB Weekly FREE Bulletin Board. Maximum 50 words. Send in yours to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (50 words)
1. ** For more than 40 years, Dive N’ Surf’s legendary Annual Yard Sale has been the South Bay tradition. This year it runs just 13 days – a short window to grab that new board, wetsuit, or summer gear and save serious $$$. Want details? Email web@divensurf.com – we’re happy to help! —- Dive N’ Surf
2. ** Tim Hageman’s article was eye-opening and another vivid example of everything that is wrong with our city government. Thanks for exposing this incomprehensible ruse on our citizens. —- Paul Wafer, Manhattan Beach
3. ** California’s pollution issues stem from geography that traps pollutants, high vehicle emissions, and wildfires, while Florida benefits from ocean breezes that bring cleaner air. To reduce pollutants, California has a low-carbon fuel standard and mandates a special gasoline blend designed to reduce pollution and improve air quality. These costs are reflected at the pump. So fuel burns cleaner but is more expensive to produce. —- Vida Holguin
4. ** Recently, you asked for feedback on AI in education. – Take a read. – https://shumer.dev/something-big-is-happening —- Kathy Adzich
5. ** Let’s be honest – the L.A. Times is pathetic. —- Ron Wall, El Segundo
6. ** Welcome to the “my feelings are everything” generation. Celebrities, athletes, influencers, teachers, politicians – performing for applause, not truth. Facts are optional; consequences are someone else’s problem. It’s all about likes, snaps, and social capital. Meanwhile, real problems fester. We’re trading courage for clout. Sad. Dangerous. Entirely predictable. —- Samuel R.
7. ** Sen. John Fetterman didn’t sugarcoat it during his CNN appearance. When pressed about the backlash he’s been receiving, he responded bluntly: “The right might call you names… but the left? They want me to die. They’re cheering for my next stroke.” —- Nanci R., Hermosa Beach
8. ** Hello neighbors, I have a duplex for rent/front house. 3-bed, 2-bath, newly renovated. $3,200.00 monthly rent in southwest Lawndale, pls call for a private tour. —- 424-781-0267
9. ** Extraordinary applause to Tim Hageman for his courageous commentary in MB Weekly! Clear, bold, and unapologetic. We don’t need a high-priced deputy police chief any more than the President needs a master class in boasting. Bravo, Mr. Hageman! —- J.F., Manhattan Beach
10. ** Heartbroken reading former Mayor Suzanne Hadley’s interview about her recent break-in. No one should feel violated in their own home. Suzanne, thank you for your courage and honesty in sharing your story to help others stay alert and prepared. Your transparency matters – and your strength inspires, Suzanne. —- Cindy Q.
11. ** Eleven Hermosa Beach business owners gathered around the Tiki Kai fire pit on a sweltering January afternoon, comparing notes on a wave of ADA and Unruh Act lawsuits demanding $10,000-$20,000. The filings are so frequent that many now view them not as justice but as extortion and a grim “cost of doing business.” —- Editor’s Note
12. ** We are collecting signatures to oppose the proposed 7-story, 60-unit development at 2nd Street and Sepulveda Boulevard in Manhattan Beach, with 25% designated as affordable housing. This high-density project would dramatically alter our neighborhood’s scale, traffic flow, safety, and overall quality of life. This is the only petition addressing this proposal. —- Name Withheld by Request, Manhattan Beach
13. ** Fred Taylor’s column is 1000% correct. Virtually every cost in California keeps climbing, and it’s beyond frustrating for families and small businesses alike. When you take an honest look at leadership at the City, County, and State levels, sadly, no one should be particularly surprised by the results. —- Zack Hamilton, Hermosa Beach
14. ** New York-style Yeastie Boys Bagels rolls into Manhattan Beach with its first local food truck at 451 Manhattan Beach Blvd. Starting at 8 a.m., bagels are FREE until sold out. Carb diem, South Bay. —- Editor’s Note
15. ** My first visit to the new restaurant Toranj in Manhattan Beach left me conflicted. The food was perfectly fine, reasonably flavorful, and nicely presented, but the service lagged. I even called the owner, Farbod, the following week to share feedback, and never heard back. That silence was disappointing. —- Devita D.
16. ** I’ve purchased two pairs of sneakers from Village Runner in Manhattan Beach. Yes, they’re expensive – but the quality is outstanding, and the customer service is truly superior – knowledgeable staff, no pressure, real expertise. You get what you pay for. In this case, it’s worth every penny. —- Clay T.
17. ** Movie theaters demand more proof of identity than polling places. —- Darlene M.
18. ** MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION: Should Olympic athletes talk politics? Please send your comments to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
19. ** Is your target market women over 40 with higher incomes? Reach them through this powerful media platform: Healthy Life Net: 14.8M monthly | 177M annually. Your Best Life: 412,600 monthly | 5.02M annually. South Bay: 4.9M monthly | 59M annually. Advertise on Healthy Life Net: https://healthylife.net/RadioShow/archiveJI.htm —- Joan Irvine
20. ** When I looked at the prices at Erewhon in Manhattan Beach, I honestly didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. —- Suzie T.
21. ** Some mornings I can’t believe my eyes. Elementary school teachers in El Segundo showing up in sweatpants and wrinkled T-shirts? Seriously? We ask kids to aim high, act sharp, and take pride – and this is the example? Standards used to matter. How principals allow it is beyond me. —- Melissa G., El Segundo
22. ** THE MB LEGACY OPEN GOLF TOURNAMENT IS SELLING QUICKLY: Just a few spots remain for the 2026 MB Legacy Open presented by LourdMurray on March 30th! Founded by dedicated MBUSD parents, this new community favorite brings together 120 recreational golfers for a day of fun, friendly competition, and connection – all in support of our Manhattan Beach public schools. A variety of great sponsorship opportunities are available. Learn more here: https://mbef.org/mb-legacy-open-golf-tournament/
23. ** The Butchery sandwiches have the SOFTEST bread. So many great items to make sandwiches at home, and the gourmet bruschetta —- Amelia R.
24. ** The donut holes at Dunkin are perfect for sampling (but you probably end up eating a full one, but who cares!) —- R. Jones
25. ** Francesca’s is closing up all stores after two decades, including 33 in California. That includes the one in the Manhattan Village mall selling boutique clothes and gifts. —- Editor’s Note
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