MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:
Majority of Reader Question Value of Four-Year College Degree for Well-Paying Jobs
In an extraordinary new MB Weekly Reader Poll, only one in four readers believe that obtaining a four-year college degree is extremely important for securing a well-paying job in today’s economy. Approximately 35% of respondents consider a college degree somewhat substantial, while 40% deem it unnecessary or critical. This growing skepticism is further underscored by nearly half (49%) of those surveyed, who say a four-year degree is less crucial today for a lucrative career than two decades ago. Conversely, 32% believe a degree is more critical now, and 17% feel its importance remains unchanged. Financial considerations also weigh heavily on the minds of many readers. Only 22% of respondents believe that the cost of a four-year degree is worth it, even if it requires taking out loans. A more significant segment, 47%, thinks the price is justified only if it can be managed without incurring debt. Meanwhile, 29% assert that the expense is not worth it. This reader poll highlights a growing sentiment that the traditional path to career success may no longer hinge on a four-year college degree.
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MB WEEKLY – EXCLUSIVE COMMENTARY:
by Ed Kaminsky
While it’s true April sales in SoCal were below the 21‑year average, that doesn’t spell disaster – it simply means fewer transactions, not collapsing prices or demand. In our Beach Cities, price trends remain solid:
- Hermosa Beach saw median home values around $2.8 M in May – up nearly 24% year-over-year – and homes are going pending after ~23 days, not stalling on market.
- In Redondo Beach, April closed 68 homes at an average of ~$1.92 M, with most selling close to full price in ~31 days.
- Manhattan Beach remains strong – $1.33 B in closed sales over last 12 months (May ’24–Apr ’25), ranking third highest ever.
What I’m seeing: well-priced, well-prepped homes – especially in prime locations – still draw multiple offers. Some older homes priced near new‑construction comps may linger, but that’s about realistic pricing, not market decline. Ultimately, buying or selling should hinge on your situation – not the headlines.
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MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Greg Willsey
(BREAD HEAD)
Q: WELCOME TO MANHATTAN BEACH. WHAT CAN YOU TELL OUR LARGE READERSHIP ABOUT BREAD HEAD?
A: We are incredibly excited to be joining the Manhattan Beach community. I used to live in Manhattan Beach before work took me up to Santa Monica about 15 years ago, and I have wanted to open a Bread Here sandwich shop here since we launched the company in 2022. Two of my co-founders (Alex Williams and Jordan Snyder) are very talented chefs, earning a Michelin star at their prior fine dining restaurant before turning their attention to Bread Head. They take a huge amount of pride in the ingredients that we source and how everything comes together into what we believe are the best sandwiches around. Our vision all along has been to be the neighborhood sandwich shop that people (and in particular families) come to for the food and the experience. We’ve crafted our sandwiches to be the best versions of timeless classics that we are all familiar with, perfect for a weekday lunch or a picnic at the beach. Our goal is to be a staple of the Manhattan Beach community, and we hope to be here for a long, long time.
Q: WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF RUNNING YOUR BUSINESS POST-COVID?
A: Building and training an amazing staff is always the hardest part of running our business. We make pretty much everything from scratch onsite, so we need skilled bakers who are willing to work very early mornings, experienced cooks that can turn out high quality sandwiches very quickly, and personable, detail-oriented customer facing staff who can make Bread Head a great experience for everyone. When we open on a Saturday morning, we have 16+ employees ready to go.
Q: WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
A: I was born in Wethersfield, CT. I grew up less than a mile from one of my co-founders Michael Pasternak. We went to nursery school through high school together, and we have remained close friends. Our parents still live in the same houses today and often see each other out for daily walks.
Q: WHERE CAN READERS LEARN MORE ABOUT BREAD HEAD?
A: We encourage readers to visit our website and our Instagram page to learn more. Or come into the restaurant and speak to one of our staff members.
Q: WHO WOULD YOU RATHER HAVE LUNCH WITH, ELON MUSK OR BEYONCÉ?
A: I think Beyonce would be incredibly interesting to have lunch with. She has accomplished so much in her life and supports so many great causes.
Q: WHAT IS YOUR ASTROLOGY SIGN?
A: I am a Libra.
www.BreadHeadLA.com
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Kaydence, a happy team member at Urban Plates in Manhattan Village.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Daryn Smith
I don’t live in Manhattan Beach, but I wholeheartedly agree with Paul Wafer’s opinion that your city should appoint a COO to hold everyone employed by the city accountable for their department budgets. Suppose Paul is accurate in his position that the city is being put in a position that causes unfunded retirement debt because of the bloated number of employees with salaries draining the city’s general fund. In that case, you are replicating the irresponsible behavior of the state and federal government at the expense of service to your residents, who deserve an updated infrastructure and safety, vs. lots of bureaucrats who are not needed.
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MB WEEKLY EXCLUSIVE LENS VIDEO:
An exclusive MB Weekly video featuring a Piano Player at Fête restaurant in Downtown Manhattan.
https://youtu.be/xGOD6FAey_Q
Tin Roof Bistro:
Charcuterie boards are like crafting the perfect masterpiece – each piece adding something special! What’s your favorite: saucisson sec salami, prosciutto di Parma, Shaft’s Blue Vein cheese, or Drake’s herbed goat cheese?
www.TinRoofBistro.com
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Mark Burton (Former Mayor of Manhattan Beach)
As the former General Counsel to LAPD and the Airport Police, I have seen hundreds of highly organized demonstrations, some organic and some peaceful. This demonstration was highly organized to disrupt services at the federal immigration buildings in downtown LA. Initially, the LAPD was overwhelmed, and the deployment of the National Guard to protect the federal immigration buildings and federal employees was timely and appropriate. Mayor “Too Late” Bass should have initiated a curfew earlier. Of all the Mayors in LA History, she is the “weakest” with no governing experience. It shows again and again. I hope Caruso runs for Mayor in 2026. Caruso would make a profound, positive difference to the residents of LA.
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ISN’T IT LONG PAST TIME FOR YOU TO … SPEAK UP:
*Comment *Hire *Share *Barter *Rent *Sell *Promote
Let all your neighbors in the South Bay know what is on YOUR mind … for FREE. Maximum 50 words. Send in yours to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (50 words)
The Gateway to Home Invasions in Manhattan Beach:
The Manhattan Beach Police Department has reported a surge in unlocked vehicle thefts. Thieves are targeting cars overnight, explicitly looking for garage door openers. Once obtained, they use the openers to access garages, steal property, and sometimes enter the primary residence. Authorities urge residents to lock their vehicles, remove valuables, and avoid leaving garage door openers inside. This simple step can significantly reduce the theft risk and protect homes from intruders. Police continue to monitor the situation and advise residents to remain vigilant.
Manhattan Beach Mastermind Quiz
Think you know everything about Manhattan Beach? Let’s find out.
1. WHAT LOCAL LANDMARK ONCE SERVED AS A “SALTWATER PLUNGE” AND BEACH BATHHOUSE?
A. Shade Hotel / B. The Strand House / C. Peck’s Manhattan Plunge / D. El Porto Club
2. WHAT WAS THE ORIGINAL NAME OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD NOW KNOWN AS EL PORTO?
A. Shell Beach / B. North Manhattan / C. Highland Shores / D. Moonstone
3. MANHATTAN BEACH HAS ONE OF THE MOST EXPENSIVE REAL ESTATE MARKETS IN THE U.S. – WHAT’S THE AVERAGE HOME PRICE AS OF 2025?
A. $1.9 million / B. $2.8 million / C. $3.5 million / D. Over $4 million
4. THE ANNUAL MANHATTAN BEACH GRAND PRIX BIKE RACE HAS BEEN HELD SINCE WHAT YEAR?
A. 1952 / B. 1962 / C. 1975 / D. 1989
5. IN WHICH FILM STUDIO LOCATED NEARBY HAVE SHOWS LIKE AVATAR AND THE MANDALORIAN BEEN PRODUCED?
A. Manhattan Beach Studios / B. El Segundo Media Complex / C. Pacific Coast Pictures / D. South Bay Film Center
Level Up Your Weekend
With AttaGirl Brunch:
The Wait Is Over! It’s Time to Level Up Your Weekend With Brunch at AttaGirl! Brunch is now available from 10am-2:30pm Sat & Sun! Weekend dinner hours have been extended to 2:30pm-10:30pm Sat & 2:30pm-10:00pm Sun!
www.AttaGirlLA.com
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Balloon blowing artist at Hermosa Pier.
Dive N’ Surf:
Provisions, our reef-safe SPF 30 sunscreen is back! It’s non-toxic and free from chemicals that can harm marine life. Formulated to comply with Hawaii’s Act 104, it contains no oxybenzone or octinoxate – keeping both your skin and the ocean safe.
www.DiveNSurf.com
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME:
** Wow! I’ve seen a lot of great movies over the years. The movie that left a big impact for me was Jerimiah Johnson with Robert Redford. Also, A Man For All Seasons left a big impact as well. In the last few years, I don’t recall seeing a movie that left that type of big impact. —- Mark Burton
** Top Gun —- Ed Kaminsky
** Planes Trains and Automobiles —- Michael Zislis
** “Alien” The first one. Great acting, great special effects, could kill a number of ways, imagine being trapped on a space ship with that creature, etc. —- Phillip Cook
** Godfather II, Alltime —- David Slay
** My favorite movie is Dirty Dancing! —- Lisa Hemmat
** Shawshank Redemption. —- Russ Lesser
** Big Wednesday starring Wiliam Katt, Jan Michael Vincent, and Gary Busey. Directed by John Milius. Nothing ever depicted the early surf culture of the 60’s in the South Bay and Southern California better than this movie. —- Bob Holmes
** Patton —- Joe Franklin
** “Ford v. Ferrari” … it’s an amazing story of American entrepreneurship taking town the titans of Europe. I had the pleasure of meeting Ken Miles’ [the driver] son, Peter Miles at a promotional event. —- Fred Taylor
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Manhattan Barber Shop in Manhattan Beach.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
Name Withheld by Request (Manhattan Beach)
Los Angeles isn’t “under control”; it’s teetering on a carnival tilt-a-whirl of denial. Inside City Hall, politicians recite mantras about “largely peaceful demonstrations.” At the same time, outside, improvised nail bombs rip through a federal detention center, and a feral crowd in Vermont swallows a two-person ICE pickup. A commander whispers the obvious – without Guard rifles and Marine logistics, the thin blue line would have dissolved like sugar in hot coffee – but he’s muzzled by departmental PR. That gag order is an absolute outrage. Leaders pretend order reigns because acknowledging chaos would indict their laxity and the fashionable fantasy that hashtags can replace policing. Meanwhile the city counts smashed windows, scorched cruisers, and bruised officers like confetti after a riotous parade. So tell me, Governor Newsom: what’s the acceptable quota of arson and assault? How many detonated M-80s signal “success”? If this is control, spare us your chaos – and civic shame, too.
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MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Dessert at Lido di Manhattan in Manhattan Beach.
MB WEEKLY – READER COMMENT:
Reader Note: Three Things I Love About MB Weekly:
- MB Weekly delivers on its promise: “Once A Week, But Never Weakly.” In a media world full of bland noise, it’s bright, sharp, and independent. No fluff. No filter.
- The Photos Are Kooool! – From candid community moments to beach shots, the photography in MB Weekly always catches my eye. There’s personality in every frame; somehow, it all feels local, vibrant, and alive.
- The FREE Bulletin Board is a Trip! – Where else can you find jobs, jokes, lost cats, strong opinions, and surfboards for sale – all in 50 words or less?
It’s authentic voices from real people, and I never skip it. MB Weekly isn’t just another digital publication. It’s a community snapshot, a platform, and a must-read. I look forward to it every single week. – A Loyal South Bay Reader —- Amanda C., Hermosa Beach
MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:
WHAT IS YOUR MOST TREASURED BRIDEZILLA MEMORY?
Please share your comment with thousands and thousands of your neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities.
Send your reply, anonymously if you choose, to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MB WEEKLY – QUIZ ANSWERS:
1. What local landmark once served as a “saltwater plunge” and beach bathhouse? ✅ C. Peck’s Manhattan Plunge
2. What was the original name of the neighborhood now known as El Porto? ✅ A. Shell Beach
3. Manhattan Beach has one of the most expensive real estate markets in the U.S. – what’s the average home price as of 2025? ✅ D. Over $4 million
4. The annual Manhattan Beach Grand Prix bike race has been held since what year? ✅ B. 1962
5. In which film studio located nearby have shows like Avatar and The Mandalorian been produced? ✅ A. Manhattan Beach Studios
1. ** El Segundo Unified must pay $1M to former student Eleri Irons, who endured nearly a year of bullying at El Segundo Middle School. After losing in L.A. County Court in 2022, the district’s appeal was just denied. —- Editor’s Note
2. ** Four arrested in theft on PCH: El Segundo PD recovered $1,800+ in stolen merchandise after a witness tipped them off to a group fleeing a store without paying. Officers quickly located the suspect’s vehicle and found tagged clothing inside. Three were arrested for burglary, one for outstanding warrants. —- Editor’s Note
3. ** A former employee of the School of Dance and Music in Hermosa Beach has been charged with child molestation and child pornography after hidden cameras were discovered in restrooms. Hermosa Beach police responded on May 3. The school serves students ages 2 to 18. The investigation is ongoing. —- Editor’s Note
4. ** Tell your friends to sign up to receive MB Weekly for FREE each week. —- www.MBWeekly.net
5. ** According to your MB Weekly reader poll, Joe Franklin is the most popular City Council Person, which has me wondering who is the least popular. —- Tim H.
6. ** It is astounding how much importance chefs and foodies place in the culinary opinions of a tire manufacturer. —- Z.H., Hermosa Beach
7. ** Are you or your company looking to hire someone? Place your job opportunity on our MB Weekly FREE Bulletin Board. Send your fifty-word job posting to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
8. ** What the Hell ever happened to Suzanne Hadley? —- C.T., Manhattan Beach
9. ** Thanks to city efforts, Downtown MB just got greener. A new bike corral at 400 MB Blvd holds 20 bikes, and another rack is now up in Lot 3 near 12th & Morningside. That’s 25 new bike spots – making cycling easier, safer, and more convenient.
10. ** JUST LISTED: 2 Ocean-View 1BRs in El Porto – Live the beach dream with two stunning, renovated 1-bedroom apartments steps from the sand. Vaulted ceilings, ocean views, all utilities + WiFi included. 225A & 227A El Porto St. Call Jillian: (310) 362-5196 —- thehobincompany.com
11. ** Somalia-born Congresswoman Ilhan Omar denounces the USA as one of the “worst” countries on Earth. —- Dr. Patrick K.
12. ** “I can’t imagine why Trump won!” —– Oregon House of Representatives Hold Drag Show on House Floor After Passing Resolution to “Recognize and Honor Oregon’s Rich History of Black Drag.”
13. ** Should Trump have deployed the National Guard to quell the Los Angeles protests? – Absolutely NOT!!! After being caught by surprise the first night, the LAPD, supplemented by surrounding police departments, the LA County Sheriff, and the Highway Patrol, had everything under control. It is disgraceful that a few hundred criminals spoiled the message of the many thousands of peaceful protestors. That should be the focus of local, state, and federal law enforcement —- Paul G. Beswick
14. ** Trump did not comply with the law (what else is new) by dispatching the National Guard and Marines without request from the LA Mayor or CA Governor – there were other cities out there (in red states) with immigration protests that were not so treated. Further, paid agitators were brought in to make peaceful assembly turn into limited chaos. All Trump did was distract from his inconsistent immigration policies by inflaming a situation that could have been handled competently by LA police/sheriff. —- Vida Holguin
15. ** What is your favorite Beach Boys song? Add some music to your day. —- Joe Ferrell
16. ** I learned a long time ago that private industry gauges success by profits. ALL levels of government gauge success by how large an organization you can build or how big you can get your budget. What else can you brag about when you don’t have profit & loss requirements? —- Terry Watson
17. ** Let’s face it: Trump’s breathing bothers the Lefties, but imagine the damage to LA if he didn’t trigger the National Guard. Truth be told, the Guard came too late. LA Police Chief says he was overwhelmed with ‘not so peaceful’ insurrectionists. —- Fred T.
18. ** Let’s be honest. Starbucks is nothing more than a to-go coffee shop with expensive coffee and good lighting. —- Allie S., Manhattan Beach
19. ** MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION: Do Regular Facials Actually Improve Your Skin? Send your reply to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
20. ** Looking to hire someone? Post your job for FREE on the wildly popular MB Weekly FREE Bulletin Board! Reach thousands of engaged locals. Email your listing (max 50 words) to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net – and let the South Bay talent come to you!
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