MB WEEKLY EXCLUSIVE COMMENTARY:
The Argument for Two Terms Only
by Former MB Mayor Mark Burton
The Argument for “TWO TERMS ONLY” Manhattan Beach historically benefited from a tradition where residents served a limited time on the City Council and then returned to private life. That approach helped ensure fresh ideas, broader community participation, and leadership that reflected the evolving priorities of the city. It prevented local government from becoming dominated by a small group of long-term political figures. Term limits are actually a democratic tool used across many levels of government. California voters approved term limits for the state legislature, and the U.S. Constitution limits the President to two terms. These limits exist not because voters cannot make decisions, but because they protect against the concentration of political power and encourage leadership renewal. Without term limits, incumbents gain significant structural advantages – name recognition, fundraising networks, and institutional influence – that can discourage new candidates from running. Over time, that can narrow participation rather than expand it. The goal isn’t to prevent good people from serving; it’s to ensure that leadership opportunities remain open to more members of the community and that our local government continues to benefit from new perspectives. Healthy democracies depend not only on elections, but also on systems that encourage competition, accountability, and leadership renewal.
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MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:
Sole Searching – 14% Of South Bay Readers Admit Foot Odor Woes
A new MB Weekly Reader Poll found that 14% of South Bay residents believe they have a problem with foot odor, a condition medically known as bromodosis. The survey, conducted among readers of www.MBWeekly.net, suggests the issue is more common than many might admit. Still, at least two South Bay podiatrists say the number is likely understated, noting that foot odor is both common and often underreported due to embarrassment. Medical experts explain that the human foot contains roughly 250,000 sweat glands – more than any other part of the body. When sweat accumulates in shoes and socks, bacteria break it down into compounds that produce the familiar unpleasant smell. Podiatrists recommend practical steps such as breathable footwear, frequent sock changes, proper foot hygiene, and the use of antimicrobial powders to help control the problem.
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MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Peter Kim
(Owner, Sloopy’s Beach Cafe)
Q: YOU’VE FED GENERATIONS OF MANHATTAN BEACH LOCALS. WHAT’S THE BIGGEST CHANGE YOU’VE SEEN IN PEOPLE – NOT MENUS – SINCE YOU FIRST OPENED YOUR DOORS?
A: The biggest change that I’ve seen in people is the changing of palates over the years. For instance, when we purchased Sloopy’s some 35 years ago, I’d never imagined putting Kale salad on the menu. Moreover, a Spicy Tuna Sushi Burrito? Please, no one would have imagined that those two items are very popular items at Sloopy’s 35 years or even 20 years ago. I think people’s palates have adapted through generations. There’s a lot more cultural cross over in taste as the new generation of diners begin to dine out.
Q: EVERY LONGTIME RESTAURANT OWNER HAS THAT STORY. WHAT’S THE MOST UNFORGETTABLE MOMENT – HEARTWARMING, HILARIOUS, OR SLIGHTLY INSANE – THAT EVER HAPPENED IN YOUR DINING ROOM?
A: Sloopy’s has over time become great 1st date/Blind date spot. So over the years I’ve seen many couples start a union beginning with their “First date” at Sloopy’s. From 17 to 88 year old, you’re never too old for a blind date. The blind dates are sometimes very cute, and sometimes absolutely hilarious… especially when one person is trying to impress the other. Too many stories for this article. But, we’ve had many couples come in and say that their first date was at Sloopy’s.
Q: TRENDS COME AND GO: KALE, CRUDO, QR CODES. WHAT FOOD “INNOVATION” DO YOU SECRETLY HOPE NEVER RETURNS?
A: Although I like carbonated water very much, I hope the endless refills for soda never comes back or is expected at small businesses like mine. As we have come to realize that drinking gallons of carbonated soda is not good for your health. The price of the syrups and carbonates have pretty much taken care of the refills.
Q: RUNNING A RESTAURANT IS PART HOSPITALITY, PART PSYCHOLOGY. WHAT’S THE SINGLE MOST IMPORTANT RULE YOU’VE LEARNED ABOUT KEEPING CUSTOMERS HAPPY – AND SANE – IN A BEACH TOWN THAT KNOWS GOOD FOOD?
A: The single most important rule is service, service, service. Treat the customer just way you’d like to be treated when you dine out. All restauranteurs and chefs dine out at different culinary spots all the time. We are the best and worst critics so overkill the customer with service is the best rule of thumb.
Q: WHAT ARE THREE OF YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS IN MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: Slays (all of them), Tin Roof, Salt & Straw (I know it’s not a restaurant) and of course Sloopy’s.
www.SloopysBeachCafe.com
Saint & Second:
Enjoy the New Spring Menu at Saint & Second
Lunch l Dinner l Weekend Brunch l Weekday Social Hour
Locally Sourced Seasonal Cuisine l Innovative Cocktails | Hundreds of Handpicked Whiskeys l Masterfully Curated Wine List | Private Dining Room Available
3160 N. Sepulveda Blvd. | (310) 759-3160 | www.SaintAndSecond.com
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Paul Wafer (MB Community Activist)
Unresponsive City Leadership: On February 24, I sent a letter to the Manhattan Beach City Council, the City Manager, and the Finance Director regarding the City’s mid-year budget report. In that letter, I raised the same concern I outlined in this publication: the troubling $2.4 million increase in the projected budget deficit. To date, I have received only one response, from Councilmember Steve Charelian. I understand that members of the City’s leadership may not agree with my concerns or my conclusions. Reasonable people can disagree about policy. But as a resident and taxpayer, I believe it is reasonable to expect acknowledgment and engagement when serious fiscal concerns are raised. The silence from the rest of the City’s leadership is disappointing. It gives the impression that legitimate questions about the City’s growing deficit are being ignored – much like the deficit itself. Manhattan Beach residents deserve transparency, accountability, and a willingness from their leaders to address difficult financial realities.
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Trans Suspect Charged In Killing Of 92-Year-Old Millionaire Developer:
A bizarre and deadly drama unfolded in Hermosa Beach after a transgender suspect dressed like a “Blues Brother” was arrested in the killing of a 92-year-old millionaire developer inside his beachfront home, authorities said. Robert Simmons (aks Elanor Beaulieu), 39, was charged with murder in the death of Demetrius Doukoullos, according to court documents. Police were called to Doukoullos’ Hermosa Beach residence around 12:37 p.m. March 14 to conduct a welfare check after his realtor had not heard from him for roughly a week, according to Hermosa Beach Police social media. What began as a routine visit quickly spiraled into a standoff before the suspect surrendered to a SWAT team. Investigators later discovered Doukoullos’ body inside the property. The investigation continues.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Easter Bunnies at Growing Wild florist.
THE RISING AGE OF FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS HAS DOMINATED HOUSING-MARKET DISCUSSION IN RECENT MONTHS:
** ED KAMINSKY (Kaminsky Real Estate Group): The rise in the median age of first-time homebuyers to 40 reflects both economic realities and shifting social dynamics. Affordability is a major drive, home prices and interest rates have significantly outpaced wage growth, making it harder for younger buyers to enter the market early. At the same time, lifestyle patterns have changed. Many young adults are staying at home longer, delaying major financial commitments like homeownership while they build income, reduce debt, or pursue career flexibility. I also see in the 20 somethings that homeownership isn’t a focus for them as it was for us decades ago. We’re also seeing a growing role of family support. In high-cost markets like Manhattan Beach, it’s increasingly common for parents to assist with down payment and certainly just buying a home for their kids to give them a headstart. Ultimately, homeownership is still a priority for many families, but the path has become longer and more strategic. Today’s first-time buyers are entering the market later, but often with stronger financial footing and clearer long-term goals.
** BRETT ZEBROWSKI (Zebrowski Group): The average age of a first-time homebuyer has risen significantly in recent years, with national data now showing many buyers entering the market in their mid-to-late 30s – and often closer to 40. This shift reflects the realities of today’s housing market, where affordability challenges, higher interest rates, and the need for larger down payments have delayed homeownership for many. In high-cost coastal markets like the South Bay, this trend is even more pronounced. Buyers are typically more established professionals, often dual-income households, who have spent years building income, savings, and financial stability before making their first purchase. For sellers, this means today’s first-time buyers are more educated, more patient, and more strategic. And for buyers, the message is clear: taking longer to purchase isn’t falling behind – it’s becoming the new normal in a rapidly evolving real estate landscape.
Living The Good Life – Manhattan Beach Residents Outlive The Rest By Five Years:
Residents of Manhattan Beach are enjoying more than just ocean views – they’re gaining extra years of life. A new study shows that locals live an average of 85.4 years, nearly 5 years longer than the Los Angeles County average of 80.5 and California’s average of 80 years. The research, conducted by Measure of America, ranks Manhattan Beach fourth in L.A. County for life expectancy. Affluent coastal communities dominated the list, with Brentwood and Pacific Palisades topping it at 88 years. Experts point to lifestyle factors such as access to outdoor activity, higher income levels, and strong community engagement as key contributors. In Manhattan Beach, it seems the good life truly pays off – measurably.
Zebrowski Group:
“A trusted advisor, a community fixture, and someone
who takes pride in helping families make meaningful moves.”
(310) 678-7158 | Brett@ZebrowskiGroup.com | www.ZebrowskiGroup.com
Parking Lot Pandemonium – Speeding Car Wreaks Havoc In El Porto:
Chaos erupted recently in Manhattan Beach’s El Porto area when a speeding vehicle barreled through a parking lot near 36th Street and The Strand at an estimated 60 mph. Witnesses say the car smashed through a gate – sending debris flying over 100 feet – before slamming into a Tesla and triggering a chain-reaction crash involving at least six vehicles. Several cars were heavily damaged, with one or two reportedly totaled. The vehicle stopped just short of the busy Strand walkway, narrowly missing pedestrians. No injuries were reported. The driver was arrested and hospitalized as authorities continue investigating the cause.
THE MB WHISPERER:
by Melanie C.
***A few random observations from wandering around our little slice of paradise. ***First, credit where it’s due: I had a very good experience with Look Optometry. The exam was thorough, professional, and – perhaps most importantly – no one tried to sell me eyeglass frames that looked like NASA designed them. ***Dinner at Tin Roof continues to feel like eating in someone’s lively living room. It’s warm, friendly, and the kind of place where you half expect someone to hand you a blanket and tell you to stay awhile. ***DoorDash is an interesting invention. You gain the miracle of food arriving at your door, but somehow lose the human experience of going out to see your neighbors. ***I still miss the Nando restaurant. Some places leave a hole in the neighborhood fabric. ***Downtown Manhattan Beach continues to feature the Olympic sport of teenage e-bike slalom. ***On the positive side, I’m rooting for South Bay Classical Academy. ***And finally, Estell Boutique proves good taste still exists in retail. ***Have a tip for The MB Whisperer, send it to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
KW Luxury International:
Patricia Blakemore Broker Associate | (310) 544-6100
www.PBlakemore.KW.com
MB WEEKLY – HISTORY:
In February 1971, shortly before leaving for Paris, Jim Morrison played a game of touch football with some friends at Polliwog Park in Manhattan Beach.
MANHATTAN BEACH PARKING METERS HEADED FOR HISTORY:
Manhattan Beach drivers may soon want to keep their phones charged instead of their pockets filled with quarters. City officials have approved a plan to eliminate traditional parking meters citywide and transition to a modern system built around kiosks and mobile payments operated by ParkMobile. Under the proposal, approximately 1,275 parking meters and 12 existing kiosks will be removed and replaced with about 130–140 new kiosks. In contrast, the majority of parking payments are expected to be made on mobile devices. City leaders say the move reflects changing habits as fewer people carry coins and more rely on smartphones for everyday transactions. Parking fees remain an important revenue source for Manhattan Beach, and officials acknowledge the new system could potentially increase collections. Holiday shoppers can breathe easy: free parking will still be offered in key business districts during the holiday season, according to the city.
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Easter Brunch:
The Strand House
Menu | Booking
Shade Hotel/Zinc@Shad
Menu | Booking | More Info
Shade Hotel/Sea Level Restaurant & Lounge
HORIZON LEVEL BUFFET BRUNCH Booking
SEA LEVEL PRIX FIXE 4-COURSE BRUNCH Booking
Menu | More Info
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Joe Franklin (Mayor Pro Tem)
I benefited greatly at an early age from a treasured mentor who taught me about money and investing. It also helped growing up in a family where you had to work if you wanted to buy something. And learning from your mistakes. Hopefully, I’m doing a good job, along with my wife, passing that information on to our children and grandchildren.
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The Butchery:
Every cut of meat and every specialty ingredient
is chosen for its unrivaled quality and taste.
1121 Artesia Blvd. | (310) 374-3671 | www.ButcheryMeats.com
Surgeon Sheryl Lewin Transformed Lives Of Children Born With Microtia:
Sheryl Lewin is a surgeon, artist, and mother whose work has transformed the lives of children born with microtia, a condition in which the outer ear is underdeveloped or absent. Through her practice, Lewin Ear Reconstruction, she has devoted her career to a single, highly specialized mission: creating ears and restoring confidence for patients around the world. After seven years in a hospital-based pediatric plastic surgery practice, Dr. Lewin opened her private practice in 2012 to provide deeply personalized care for children and adults with microtia. … Raising two children while training as a surgeon shaped her guiding principle: treat every patient as if they were her own child. Through skill, compassion, and innovation, Dr. Lewin continues to redefine what is possible in reconstructive surgery.
https://LewinEar.com/Miracles-For-Ears
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
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Name Withheld by Request (Manhattan Beach)
If this is your kid in the tan sweatshirt with the helmet on at 3100-3110 The Strand in Manhattan Beach. You need have a serious talk with them. I was walking with my 6-year-old daughter and husband down to the beach in North Manhattan Beach and heard him talk into his phone to text and say: “you’re a f**ing Jewish N-word”. I stopped, and he quickly put his head down, and I yelled, “Hey, wtf is wrong with you?! Why would you say that? Do you have any kindness or care in the world?! Don’t say that shit!” I’m so disappointed in some of our youth in the South Bay.
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MB WEEKLY – CARTOON:
“Please don’t tell my mom I read the Free Bulletin Board in MB Weekly!”
Bliss Nail Lounge:
A luxury nail salon located in the heart of downtown Manhattan Beach.
1830 N Sepulveda Blvd | (424) 278-9993 | BlissNailSepulveda.com
1. ** 2nd Street and Sepulveda is the most dangerous intersection in Manhattan Beach. If they build the proposed 7-story high-rise apartments at the old Deep Root location, this intersection will become one of the most dangerous in LA County! —- Mark Burton, Manhattan Beach
2. ** I wonder if you could draw a straight line between all the stupid things SF does and its declining population. Nah. They’re probably unrelated. —- Calvin C.
3. ** It’s the Broken Windows, Stupid —- www.BrokenWindowsBook.com
4. ** Hi, I’m the VP of Sales for Bay Club. Instead of connecting with strangers, I’ll help match you with a membership group. Annual plans offer the best value, though monthly plans are available. Seniors are especially welcome. Contact me at daniel.schwab@bayclubs.com or message here, and I’ll personally ensure a smooth, secure connection.
5. ** The great irony of modern “woke” politics – in the U.S., U.K., Australia, Canada, and New Zealand – is that constant obsession with race may be making people more race-conscious, not less. Those who see themselves as enlightened reformers may, through the tangled doctrines of critical theory and intersectionality, be unintentionally deepening the very divisions they claim to oppose. —- Dr. Lance O., Redondo Beach
6. ** I fear Sepulveda Boulevard in Manhattan Beach may soon resemble PCH in Malibu – endless congestion, creeping development, and a roadway built for another era struggling to handle modern traffic. Once a convenient corridor, it risks becoming a daily bottleneck where frustration replaces the easygoing rhythm that once defined the South Bay drive. —- Andrea C.
7. ** Hi Manhattan Beach community! My name is Haley, and I’m looking for a one-bedroom apartment or small house around June 1. I’m a 29-year-old single financial advisor working remotely for my family’s business. No pets. If anyone has leads or connections locally, I’d be very grateful. Email: haletnelson@gmail.com … Thank you!
8. ** My good friend was recently robbed in Playa Vista. Police say an organized gang is casing homes for months – hiding Wi-Fi cameras in bushes, even posing in UPS or FedEx gear – waiting for residents to leave with luggage. Bicycle patrols can only do so much. Install cameras, carry insurance, consider a house sitter, and stay alert. —- F.D., El Segundo
9. ** Reach for your dreams, work hard, and you will achieve them. Believe in a better tomorrow and make a difference in others’ lives. —- Wayne P., Manhattan Beach
10. ** Those who’ve been whining about Sweetgreen’s overpriced rabbit food can finally take a victory lap. After a rough 2025, the high priests of kale have realized charging $18 for leaves and quinoa might be insane. Maybe now “healthy eating” won’t feel like a luxury tax on common sense. —- Daisy M.
11. ** The thought of another four years of Karen Bass as Mayor of L.A. should make you want to vomit. —- T.A., Hermosa Beach
12. ** Manhattan Beach once had a charming custom: serve your time on City Council, then gracefully return to real life – like jury duty, but with better sunsets. It kept ideas fresh and egos in check. Now? Some folks seem to think it’s a timeshare… with no checkout date and permanent ocean views. —- J.B., Manhattan Beach
13. ** Thank you, MB Weekly! It’s a very nice article about all the women in the community. —- Stella Shirman, Estell Boutique
14. ** Another telecom battle is brewing in Hermosa Beach as Verizon seeks approval for a 35-foot rooftop cell tower at 725 5th Street. Residents have fought similar efforts before – and won. But history shows persistence pays for providers, not neighbors. Expect another spirited clash between connectivity demands and community character concerns. —- E.N.
15. ** El Segundo is exploring a bold move toward local control. City leaders are considering becoming a charter city, giving residents more say over laws and development. If approved by voters this November, the shift could reshape how the city responds to state housing mandates and future growth challenges. —- Editor’s Note
16. ** Here’s a troubling reality: 44% of young Americans now favor socialism over capitalism. How did we get here? A steady erosion of economic literacy. When we stop teaching how wealth is created, we shouldn’t be surprised when the next generation loses faith in the very system that built opportunity. —- Scott T.
17. ** A stunning collapse in Rancho Palos Verdes: multimillion-dollar homes now teeter on cliffs as a fast-moving landslide wipes out property values. Residents blame Sacramento’s inaction, slamming Gov. Newsom for blocking relief. One homeowner watched his $2.5M home plunge to $515K – another offer? Just $5,000. —- C.P.
18. ** Dear MB Weekly, I just wanted to share that I really enjoyed reading your recent “Women of Impact” edition! I thought it was great that you highlighted some gracious and thoughtful female leaders from across our community! Well done … My best —- Karen Komatinsky, Manhattan Beach
19. ** Coming out took courage – but seeking acceptance from family can be even harder. A decade later, I’ve built a stable life and loving relationship, yet my mother still struggles to accept my future as a parent. Her faith guides her views; I hope that, in time, love will guide her heart toward understanding. —- Gavin T., Hermosa Beach
20. ** Have you been to Santa Monica recently? Honest to God, what a s–t-house! —- Tara F., Manhattan Beach
21. ** $2 million for the LA County CEO’s goodbye gift – how touching. Nothing says “public service” like a golden parachute funded by people dodging potholes and rising taxes. Approved quietly, of course – because nothing builds trust like whispers and lawsuits. Apparently, there’s no money… unless it’s for themselves. —- C.H., Manhattan Beach
22. ** Concerned about MBUSD school funding? Don’t just worry – get involved. Learn the facts, support MBEF to help fund teachers, and speak up. Visit MBEF tables at Scholar Quiz, orchestra, and band events this week to send a message to Sacramento. Small actions, big impact – for our kids and our community. —- Mira Costa PTSA
23. ** South Bay food lovers, take note: the longtime Ragin Cajun Cafe has been reimagined as Redondo Beach Grill. After 32 years, a fresh concept debuts at the same Pacific Coast Highway location. A soft opening is underway now, offering a first taste of what’s next for this local favorite. —- Editor’s Note
24. ** Gov. Gavin Newsom lied (again) when he recently claimed: “Texas and Florida are the REAL high-tax states.” The truth: when combined with property and sales taxes, California’s tax burden is the fourth highest in the nation; Texas is #40, and Florida is #45. —- TJF, Manhattan Beach
25. ** The owner of the Michelin-rated French Laundry restaurant has stopped the high-rise affordable housing project near his restaurant. Manhattan Beach residents, do you want this? Our petition for 2nd Street and Sepulveda is now at 1,300 signatures. Please sign: https://c.org/smT6mWPYgT.
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