SHAKEN, STIRRED, & HEARD:
MB WEEKLY’S “ASK THE MAYOR” COCKTAIL PARTY IGNITES MANHATTAN BEACH
In a town better known for ocean breezes than political heat, sparks flew March 31st as MB Weekly’s inaugural “Ask the Mayor” cocktail party packed the iconic Shade Hotel with a who’s who of local power players – and plenty of unfiltered opinions. This wasn’t your typical polite civic gathering. It was lively, and – at times – electric. At center stage: David Lesser, who fielded tough, unscripted questions with composure as downtown business leader Kelly Stroman expertly steered the conversation. No talking points. No safety net. Just raw dialogue in a room hungry for it. Then came the moment everyone will be talking about. Rachel Johnson rose to defend her controversial proposal for an assistant police chief – a plan that had drawn sharp criticism. Her passionate response cut through the chatter, transforming the room into a live-wire exchange of ideas. It was tense. It was real. And it was unforgettable. “This is the biggest and most significant community event I have seen in a very long time,” a longtime civic leader declared. The guest list read like a civic roll call: Joe Franklin, Bob Holmes, Richard Montgomery, Wayne Powell, David Curry, and Michael Zislis, among many others. What unfolded wasn’t just a cocktail party – it was a civic awakening. In one night, MB Weekly proved that when a community leans in instead of tuning out, conversation doesn’t just happen. It explodes.
Interviews with City Leaders:
https://youtu.be/J8MhHtH2zdg
One-on-One Interview with The Mayor:
https://youtu.be/Ryiai6LkZDg
Kelly Stroman Q&A with The Mayor:
https://youtu.be/_uejK28S8bE
MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:
“NO QUARTERS, NO THANKS!”
MB Weekly Readers Reject High-Tech Parking Plan
Manhattan Beach residents are pumping the brakes on a proposed overhaul of the city’s parking system. In a recent MB Weekly poll, a resounding 8 out of 10 readers said “hell no” to eliminating traditional meters in favor of kiosks and mobile payments operated by ParkMobile. City officials have approved a plan to remove approximately 1,275 parking meters and 12 existing kiosks, replacing them with just 130 to 140 modern kiosks. While the move aims to streamline parking, many locals fear inconvenience, tech dependence, and the loss of the simplicity of dropping a quarter and moving on.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Wysh Weinstein
(MBUSD Board Member)
Q: IF YOU COULD TRADE PLACES WITH ANY MBUSD STUDENT FOR ONE DAY – MIRA COSTA QUARTERBACK, DRAMA LEAD, ROBOTICS WHIZ, OR KINDERGARTEN ARTIST – WHICH ROLE WOULD YOU CHOOSE AND WHY?
A: One of my kids, I would love to see the world through their eyes. One is at MBMS and one is at Costa so it would also be a great opportunity to see what our students are truly experiencing.
Q: BE HONEST: DURING A LONG SCHOOL BOARD MEETING, WHAT’S YOUR SECRET FUEL – COFFEE, CHOCOLATE, DEEP BREATHING… OR SHEER WILLPOWER?
A: I love a salty snack….pretzels, cheez-its, a wheat thin. I ususally open a small pack before a meeting so that I don’t make any noise crinkling it when trying to open it.
Q: WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE SUBJECT IN SCHOOL – AND DID YOU EVER GET SENT TO THE PRINCIPAL’S OFFICE?
A: I loved math as a kid. I loved being able to find answers to problems, especially word problems that related to real life. I was never sent to the principal’s office, but I did get caught by my mom trying to skip first period and going to breakfast with friends. One of my mom’s friends saw me at the diner we were having breakfast.
Q: WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: The Fugitive. I love Harrison Ford! It was also one of the first movies I saw without my parents at a movie theater so I felt very grown up watching it.
Q: WHAT WAS THE MOST SURPRISING PART OF BEING PRESIDENT OF THE MANHATTAN BEACH SCHOOL BOARD?
A: I served as President from December 2024-December 2025. The most surprising thing was how relentless the job is, even at times when you have major life stuff going on. It is a true commitment and I am proud to have stepped up during a difficult year while trying to still prioritize my own family needs. Being calm and reasonable is essential to maintaining your sanity and integrity of the District.
www.MBUSD.org
Slay Italian Kitchen:
Slay Italian “passionately” embraces the essence of “Rustic” Italian cuisine through its dynamic, ever-evolving menu, featuring a delightful array of fresh and dried pasta, premium meats, stone-fired pizzas, garden-fresh vegetables, and an exquisite selection of wines.
1001 Manhattan Ave | (424) 257-8301 | www.SlayItalianKitchen.com
From The Beat To The Byline – Former MB Police Captain Tim Hageman Joins MB Weekly:
MB Weekly, the South Bay’s largest digital publication, has announced that longtime Manhattan Beach resident and former Police Captain Tim Hageman will begin writing a monthly column for the publication. Hageman, who grew up in the South Bay, has lived in Manhattan Beach since 1998. In 2021, he retired from the Manhattan Beach Police Department after a distinguished 33-year career in law enforcement. Before joining the department, he served four years in the United States Air Force. Known for his steady leadership and deep ties to the community, Hageman has remained actively engaged in civic life since retirement. He is a member of the Rotary Club of Manhattan Beach and served as its president during the 2020–2021 term, helping guide service initiatives supporting both local and international causes. His new MB Weekly column is expected to offer thoughtful perspectives on public safety, civic responsibility, and life in Manhattan Beach. When not writing or volunteering, Hageman enjoys following sports – especially cheering on the Los Angeles Dodgers – and spending time with his wife, Amy, and their two daughters.
MB WEEKLY EXCLUSIVE VIDEO:
An exclusive MB Weekly video with Lucy & Rock Goddess Jewelry.
Click Link To Watch:
https://youtu.be/9JyC9ViET2Y
Beach Life Festival:
www.BeachLifeFestival.com/ticket-types
No Ferris Wheel, No $1.2M Paint Job – But Manhattan Beach Still Plans Patriotic Party:
In Manhattan Beach, practicality is winning out over pageantry as officials prepare to celebrate America’s 250th birthday this July – without some of the flashier ideas. Proposals like a Ferris wheel, pier festivities, and even painting the iconic water tower were shelved after eye-popping costs emerged, including a staggering $1.2 million estimate for the tower project. At a recent City Council meeting, Parks and Recreation Director Mark Leyman outlined the expenses, prompting lighthearted jokes from Mayor Pro Tem Joe Franklin about a guerrilla-style paint job. Even scaled-down ideas like tower uplighting proved pricey, leaving the city to pursue more modest – but still meaningful – celebrations.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Icelandic-Chinese jazz singer-songwriter Laufey says her mission is simple: get young people to fall in love with jazz. That passion led Laufey to reimagine “Blue in Green,” the iconic composition by jazz legend Miles Davis, as part of celebrations marking the centennial of the trumpeter and composer, who was born in May 1926 and died in 1991. Laufey debuted her version live during a Twitch stream event in Manhattan Beach recently.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Fred Taylor (Manhattan Beach)
The costly price of ‘DEI’… I’ve been an LA Kings fan since 1974 when I moved to LA. I was “in the house” when they won their first Stanley Cup in 2012. Come the 2020 rookie draft, the Kings held the #2 pick in the first round. Looking to replace their #1 Center, Anze Kopitar in several years, they chose Quinton Byfield for his speed, size and skill [?], making him the highest drafted black player in NHL history. It was Oct 2020 in the wake of ‘George Floyd’; The race conscious Kings won points with their virtue signaling. The Ottawa Senators choose the next top candidate, German born Tim Stuzle, known for elite speed, puck creativity and high-end playmaking skills. How did it work out? To date, Stuzle has scored more than twice the goals [147 v 66] and twice the assists [251 v. 114]. Now that Koptar is finally retiring, the Kings are looking to free agency to replace him. Byfield is no better than a second line center. With Stuzle, we’d be leading the conference rather than on the outside of the playoffs looking in. Just sayin’.
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MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Mira Costa campus clubs came together to highlight influential women throughout history by sharing stories of leadership, resilience, and impact. From powerful changemakers to trailblazers across different fields, students created meaningful experiences that honored the legacy of women who continue to shape our world.
Rock Goddess Jewelry
Rock Goddess Jewelry was founded in 2001, by two sisters, Lucy and Julie who share a passion for simple hand-made jewelry with an edge.
Instagram:@luciadagiau21 | (310) 710-2408 | rglucia@yahoo.com
Global Games, Local Gains – South Bay Leaders Eye Lasting Legacy From World Cup & Olympics:
Larry Kosmont
At recent South Bay Council of Governments (SBCCOG) annual assembly, business and civic leaders outlined a bold vision for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the LA28 Olympics and Paralympics: create lasting economic impact without building new venues. Speaking before 400 attendees at the Westdrift Manhattan Beach, development consultant Larry Kosmont emphasized that the South Bay’s legacy must come from innovation – new services, businesses, and experiences inspired by the global spotlight. Leaders acknowledged the challenge of balancing immediate event demands with long-term community benefit, signaling a strategic push to ensure the games leave more than just memories behind.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
The produce section of Bristol Farms in Manhattan Beach.
South Bay Classical Academy:
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
Strikes, Spares & Service – MB Police Chief Builds Team Spirit – One Frame At A Time:
In a profession defined by urgency and responsibility, MB Police Chief Rachel Johnson took a moment to emphasize something equally vital: connection. The Manhattan Beach Police Department’s command staff traded radios for bowling balls this week, stepping away from daily demands to strengthen teamwork and morale. The outing, led by Chief Johnson, reflected her leadership philosophy rooted in discipline, service, and shared accountability. She reminded her team of a standard she set upon her appointment: work as hard as she does – a challenge her staff continues to meet. Johnson also shared a personal perspective that shapes her leadership. Having lost her mother more than two decades ago, she leads with urgency and purpose, mindful of life’s unpredictability.
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MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Daniel Humbert (Manhattan Beach)
Manhattan Beach is on the cusp of significant change, yet many residents remain unaware of the scale and pace of proposed high-rise and high-density developments – particularly along Sepulveda and Rosecrans. Regardless of where one stands on affordable housing, the more concerning issue is how these projects are advancing. Increasingly, state housing mandates are overriding local zoning and limiting meaningful community input. Decisions that will shape the character of our city for decades are moving forward without broad public awareness or engagement. This isn’t about being for or against affordable housing – it’s about ensuring our community is informed and involved. If you care about the future of Manhattan Beach, take a few minutes to learn more and make your voice heard. Visit stoprisemb.org to understand the issue and, if you agree, sign the petition to help build a more informed and engaged community. Time is not on our side.
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Kaminsky Real Estate Group:
Most sellers dread the uncertainty – will your home sit too long, fetch less than it’s worth, or miss the right buyer? As the South Bay’s #1 producing team, with over $2 billion sold, we turn your equity into a win, not a worry.
(310) 427-2414 | ek@itzsold.com | www.ItzSold.com
Paws, Presence & Peace Of Mind – 24-Hour Pet ER Opens In Manhattan Beach:
VEG ER for Pets officially celebrated the grand opening of its newest full-service emergency facility in Manhattan Beach with a ribbon-cutting on April 1. Located at 1800 N. Sepulveda Blvd., the hospital marks the company’s second South Bay location, following its recent Torrance debut. Open 24/7 – including holidays – the facility is equipped to treat cats, dogs, and other animals facing urgent conditions such as toxin ingestion, heart failure, and fractures.
https://www.veg.com
Manhattan Beach Studios:
www.ManhattanBeachStudios.net
MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:
by Molly S. (Not Her Real Name, El Segundo)
I find myself at a difficult crossroads and would sincerely value the wisdom of MB Weekly readers. Next month, I turn 36. I’ve been in a loving relationship for nearly two years with a wonderful man who is 31. When we began dating, I was clear about my hopes: I wanted to be engaged and begin a family within two years. He said he wanted those things too. Yet as that timeline approaches, the goalposts keep moving. First, it was “a little more time.” Then another year. Now perhaps two. The love between us is real, but the forward motion isn’t. He speaks warmly about family, about someday having children, even hoping for a daughter. But someday and now are very different things – especially for a woman who hears the biological clock ticking a bit louder each year. So I ask our readers: At what point does patience become self-sacrifice? If love is strong but the timelines are not, would you stay – or would you move on?
MB Weekly readers, please send your advice to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 150 words)
MB WEEKLY – CARTOON:
“Don’t be depressed, Thelma, MB Weekly will be out in just a few hours…”
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 – READER COMMENT:
www.MBWeekly.net
1. ** A slice of Hermosa Beach history came alive at the Hermosa Beach Museum. “John Clark: A Legacy of Sport and Stewardship” honored former mayor John W. Clark – celebrating his Scottish roots, civic leadership, and lasting impact, bringing lawn bowling and Little League to the community. —- Editor’s Note
2. ** Good time @ MB Weekly’s “Ask the Mayor” event. I inquired about the prudence of 1.9M $’s of MBPD overtime. —- Fred Taylor, Manhattan Beach
3. ** A new UC Berkeley study found that people who moved out of California dramatically improved their financial conditions. —- Miley M., Redondo Beach
4. ** When Hermosa Beach Councilmember Raymond Jackson cries “racism,” some wonder: is it reality – or his go-to rebuttal? Disagreement isn’t discrimination. Colleagues might prefer debate over drama, but Jackson seems to prefer escalation. In Hermosa, it’s becoming less about policy – and more about personality. Maybe it’s time for thicker skin and thinner accusations. —- T.O., Hermosa Beach
5. ** Redondo Beach, get ready! The Redondo Beach Market is coming to 503 S Catalina on Saturday, April 18, from 11 am–4 pm. Vendors wanted – vintage, art, handmade, jewelry & more! Apply via Instagram @redondobeachmarket or request the form link. Shop, connect, and celebrate our amazing community. All are welcome! —- E.P., Redondo Beach
6. ** We have the highest gas tax yet drive over the deepest potholes. We spend the most on homelessness, yet have the most homeless. We spend the most on social services, yet have the worst poverty. We’re 1st in education spending growth yet 1st in illiteracy. Our [state] government is broken. —- TJF, Manhattan Beach
7. ** The “Ask the Mayor” event was outstanding. It was exciting to learn more about our city and to catch up with longtime residents during the social portion. I served with Mayor David Lesser on both the City Council (where he succeeded me as Mayor) and the Planning Commission. David is very dedicated to our city. Thank you, MB Weekly, for a memorable evening. —- Wayne Powell, (former Mayor of Manhattan Beach)
8. ** Nothing reassures the American spirit quite like career bureaucrats – whose toughest negotiation was choosing oat milk vs. almond – writing the rulebook for entire industries. When people who’ve never built a lemonade stand regulate billion-dollar markets, you can almost hear innovation quietly packing its bags and heading for the exit. —- Dr. Roland Tobias, El Segundo
9. ** Hi neighbors – enough is enough. My daughter’s e-bike, along with four others, was stolen this week – locks and chains didn’t matter. No cameras, no accountability. This is outrageous. Protect your property: bring batteries inside, take bikes indoors. Crime thrives when we tolerate it. Let’s wake up and demand better security now. —- Nelly T., Hermosa Beach
10. ** At this point, the City of MB treats promoting Juneteenth like it’s a full-time job. Meanwhile, residents would settle for part-time basics – like more cops and a slimmer budget. Maybe celebrate a little less and govern a little more? Just a modest proposal from the taxpayers funding the party. —- Tate C.
11. ** Clearn up! Redondo Beach Pier area and King Harbor 8AM to Noon, Saturday, 19th of April https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0449A5A82EA6FDCE9-62534008-king#/ —- Tom Lasser
12. ** Chicken might be the only animal for which Googling it often shows pictures of it cooked instead of alive. —- Samuel L., Manhattan Beach
13. ** Dear MB Weekly – The description of the MB Leadership program was very accurate. Being Leadership Redondo ’08, I so relate. —- Joan Irvine
14. ** Manhattan Beach PD – PSA: No dogs on the beach, it’s a no paw zone. —- MBPD
15. ** Kristi Noem may never reach the Oval Office, but she’s delivering peak political theater. Between tabloid twists and larger-than-life headlines, she’s basically a walking miniseries pitch. Call Armando Iannucci – because even Veep might say, “This is a bit much.” —- G.N.
16. ** Go…to a baseball game. There’s a reason our national pastime may have once again secured its place as America’s second-most popular sport, and it’s not just because Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge are doing their best impressions of Babe Ruth and Ted Williams. —- L.K.
17. ** MB Weekly readers should be aware of AB2017, which would add two Islamic religious observances to California’s recognized holidays. This should be of great concern to both Christian and Jewish residents of California. Enter “what happens when states start codifying Muslim holidays in their calendars” in your browser to find the article by American Thinker. And please call the two State legislators to let them know you oppose this outrageous bill. —- TJF, Manhattan Beach
18. ** Terrible experience at Bettolino Kitchen in Torrance. Hearts of palm salad was excellent, then chaos. The “butternut squash soup” was a mystery broth no one could identify – two cooks, the hostess, and the manager included. The waiter insisted I was wrong. The manager was rude. Felt gaslighted. I still don’t know what I was served. Never again. —- Name Withheld By Request
19. ** The iconic Hermosa Beach Pier is now in “poor to serious” condition – a troubling verdict for a coastal landmark. Built in 1965, its future is uncertain, but one thing is clear: saving or replacing it won’t come cheap. Price tag? Up to $58.6 million. The clock – and the tide – are ticking. —- E. N.
20. ** I love Jessiqa Pace’s video about the Pier – smart, engaging, and full of personality. It brings the community to life in a fresh way. Are there plans to do more videos with her? She’s a natural on camera and a great voice for telling our local stories. —- Tim T., Manhattan Beach
21. ** Dear MB Weekly, I thoroughly enjoyed your interview with Mr. Kampe about Leadership Manhattan Beach. He comes across as strong, focused, and deeply committed to the community. His determination is exactly the kind of leadership our city needs. Looking forward to seeing his impact unfold in the months ahead. —- Abby H.
22. ** Hot off the press – your MB Reader poll is delivering! Not even slightly shocked that 31% of local women admit to kissing another woman. In Manhattan Beach, we don’t just chase sunsets – we keep things interesting. Frankly, if the number were lower, that would be the real headline. —- Frank F.
23. ** Thank God, MB Weekly is finally calling out the most dangerous intersections in Manhattan Beach. But here’s the real question – why the hell aren’t city leaders doing anything about it? How many close calls or accidents does it take before someone acts? This isn’t complicated. Fix it now, not after another preventable disaster. —- Name Withheld by Request, Manhattan Beach
24. ** What a weird name – Veg ER! —- Scott S., Manhattan Beach
25. ** We have a true gem right here in town. Manhattan Beach Studio is a world-class video studio offering reasonable prices, top-tier quality, and a warm, welcoming crew that makes every project a pleasure. Highly recommend checking them out: www.ManhattanBeachStudios.net. – Signed, a very satisfied customer. —- Alison Janes
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