MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:
74% Say “No” to Biological Men in Women’s Sports
In a striking show of consensus, a recent MB Weekly reader poll revealed that 74% of respondents oppose allowing biological men to compete in women’s sports. “It’s simply a matter of common sense and fairness,” said Molly B., a resident of the El Porto area in Manhattan Beach. “Women have fought too hard for equal athletic opportunities to let this be erased.” While a small but vocal minority supported more liberal policies, the overwhelming sentiment emphasized protecting the hard-won progress of female athletes. The results mirror national polling trends, where a substantial majority of Americans favor requiring athletes to compete based on their birth-assigned sex.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Bob Holmes (Former Mayor, Manhattan Beach)
The concept of budget (and headcount) accountability is excellent. However, the last thing we need is a new position of COO. The city budget is ultimately the responsibility of only our city council. If you are unhappy with councilmembers who propose or support additional staff positions, throw them out when they run for re-election. We have thrown out spendthrifts before in recent years. We have a City Manager who reports directly to the city council. It is the City Manager’s responsibility to keep all department heads accountable, both as to budget and job performance. In other words, the systems are in place. They just need to be used effectively.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Lisa Hemmat
(Lido di Manhattan)
Q: WHAT’S THE ONE DISH ON YOUR MENU THAT BEST TELLS THE STORY OF YOUR RESTAURANT – AND WHY?
A: Our Vodka Pasta is the heart and soul of Lido. It’s a timeless classic – rich, comforting, and loved by all. This dish has been on our menu since day one, and it’s still one of our top sellers. What makes it so special is its versatility: it can be made vegetarian, adjusted for spice levels, or customized for kids during events and large parties. Just like Lido, it’s consistent, crowd-pleasing, and always hits the spot.
Q: HOW DO YOU BALANCE STAYING TRUE TO YOUR ORIGINAL CONCEPT WHILE ADAPTING TO EVOLVING CUSTOMER PREFERENCES AND FOOD TRENDS?
A: We like to say we’re “Italian with a California twist.” We stay rooted in traditional Italian cuisine while embracing the fresh, vibrant, and often health-conscious trends that our California customers love. Whether it’s adding avocado to a classic dish, offering gluten-free pasta, or subbing in plant-based options like julienned zucchini, we’re all about making everyone feel welcome at the table – no matter their dietary needs. We also love getting creative with specials and custom catering menus. It keeps things exciting for both our team and our guests.
Q: WHAT’S A DECISION YOU MADE EARLY ON THAT YOU WOULD NOT MAKE AGAIN?
A: Early on, we tried to do a bit of everything, thinking more options meant happier guests. What we learned is that focus and quality matter more than quantity. Now, we keep our menu curated and intentional, and it’s made a world of difference.
Q: HOW DO YOU TRAIN YOUR STAFF TO CREATE NOT JUST A MEAL BUT A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE?
A: At Lido, hospitality is everything. Our staff is trained to go beyond great service – they remember names, favorite drinks, preferred tables, and even your kid’s pasta order. That personal touch turns first-timers into regulars. We want every guest to feel like part of the Lido family, and that comes from genuinely caring and showing it in the little details.
Q: WHAT’S THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTION PEOPLE HAVE ABOUT RUNNING A SUCCESSFUL RESTAURANT?
A: That it’s easy! (Spoiler alert: it’s not.) Behind every great dish is a team working around the clock. As an owner, you’re always “on.” From front-of-house details to back-of-house operations, it takes passion, hustle, and a lot of heart to keep it all going. But when you love what you do, it’s worth every minute.
www.LidoDiManhattan.com
A bag of pistachios at CVS is $13.49 in Manhattan Beach.
MB WEEKLY EXCLUSIVE LENS VIDEO:
An exclusive MB Weekly video featuring the Rockefeller restaurant in Downtown Manhattan.
https://youtu.be/1OeNP7DPkUo
Manhattan Beach Unearths Y2K-Era Time Capsule Full Of Local Treasures:
Manhattan Beach residents took a nostalgic trip to the year 2000 this past Saturday as Leadership Manhattan Beach’s Class of 2000 unveiled a time capsule buried 25 years ago. The long-hidden capsule, buried beneath the “Wave of the Future” sculpture on Veterans Parkway, was revealed during a special event at the Joslyn Center. It was the culminating project of the class’s nine-month leadership program that educates future civic leaders through immersive learning experiences. Dozens gathered to examine relics from the turn of the millennium — from a Mira Costa girls volleyball team championship memento to now-defunct restaurant menus, police and fire department gear, and a classic Hometown Fair T-shirt.
Nando Trattoria:
The table is set and the food is waiting.
www.NandoTrattoria.com
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Russ Lesser (Former Mayor, Manhattan Beach)
The city manager and the finance director should work together to make sure the department heads abide by their budgets. The city doesn’t need to hire another highly paid executive.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
SPEAK UP… Loud And Proud:
In the MB Weekly FREE Bulletin Board
*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)
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Dan Stern (Former Mayor, Manhattan Beach)
Manhattan Beach has a bloated and overpaid staff. That much has been factually established by Paul Wafer along with an overhang of unfunded pension liabilities. The pension liability will have severe consequences in the future (when present council members are no longer in office). The present consequences are a reduction in quality of life in the city, e.g., crowded pothole roads. I don’t think hiring yet another employee (COO) will improve things. The Council just needs to become fiscally responsible and stop spending as if they don’t care since it’s other people’s money. They’re giving inebriated mariners a bad name.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Handel’s ice cream in Manhattan Village.
NEW FACES, SAME MISSION:
Manhattan Beach Reshuffles Top Leadership Roles
A quiet yet significant leadership transition is underway in Manhattan Beach City Hall. City Manager Talyn Mirzakhanian announced the appointment of three key department heads last week, signaling a fresh chapter for the city. Chief Jesse Alexander, former fire chief of Yuba City, will assume command of the Manhattan Beach Fire Department starting July 7. “His strong administrative capabilities, collaborative approach and proven leadership make him the right choice to continue our fire department’s exemplary service.” Longtime finance insider Libby Bretthauer has been named Finance Director after more than a decade of rising through the ranks. She has served as acting finance director since March. Ted Semaan, who recently retired after a decade as Redondo Beach’s Public Works Director, will step in as interim director following the retirement of Erick Lee. With three major roles newly filled, Mirzakhanian’s vision for city government is coming into sharper focus – and picking up momentum.
Cafe Vida – 20th Anniversary:
Cafe Vida WEEKEND Brunch Specials
Located at 2250 Park Place El Segundo
Entrance through the Bay Club Lobby
Free Parking
Mon-Thursday 7am-8pm / Friday 7am-3pm / Saturday-Sunday 9am-3pm
*Holidays may affect hours of operations
www.CafeVida.net
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Javier, bartender at Lido di Manhattan.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Fred Taylor (Community Activist)
So, you’re a contended Democrat. Your dad voted democrat and his dad and so on. Have you looked at your party lately? You think greenie AOC and her “the planet will end in 12 years” mantra is the face of your party. Think again. Enter Muslim Zohran Mamdani from the Bronx. This 33-year-old NY assemblyman and avowed socialist beat out former Gov. Andrew Cuomo in the recent NYC primary! So, what does he have in store for “The City”? He will be the first Muslim mayor of NYC. He pledges to set up rent- and tax-free grocery stores and drive private grocery chains out of business. He will increase “hate prevention programs” by 800%. All fares in city buses will be eliminated. Oh yeah, free childcare for young kids. And finally, a $30 minimum wage. Get ready for job losses. Every idea flies in the face of freedom, prudent financial stewardship and economic liberty, our capitalist system. It’s only worked for nearly 250 years. So, dear South Bay resident, can we all start voting for proven values in California rather than our family’s favorite political party???
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
Urban Plates:
Food Fast (not fast food)
Need it to go? Great meals within minutes.
www.UrbanPlates.com
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Jonathan Coleman (Beach City Brokers)
This area seems very insulated from price drops and the South Bay Beach Cities market is strong. The inventory is lower but the special properties (regardless of price) are selling quickly with multiple offers and prices being pushed. I have been selling property since 1981 and I have been through four cycles with bad markets and depreciated values. The market is slow, but it is still strong. I expect it will recover and prices will continue to go Up, Up, Up.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Mercado Fish Taco in Manhattan Beach.
Omar Navarro Pleads Guilty To Wire Fraud:
Omar Navarro, the perennial Republican challenger to Rep. Maxine Waters, has pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud in a plea deal. Despite raising over $1 million across four failed congressional bids, Navarro conspired with his mother and a friend to siphon off campaign funds for personal use. Originally indicted on 43 counts in 2023, Navarro struck a deal, and is set for sentencing on October 20. As part of his plea, the 36-year-old may be barred from holding public office, ending a political career that never quite began.
MB WEEKLY – RESTAURANT REVIEW:
by Darby Winston
AttaGirl In Hermosa Beach
If you’ve ever wondered what happens when Mediterranean classics get a modern, vibrant makeover, let me introduce you to AttaGirl – the coastal gem in Hermosa Beach. Let’s start with THE hummus. No, I’m not exaggerating here, this hummus is YUMMUS! It’s a silky dream, elevated by the sweetness of heirloom tomatoes and the briny kick of tangy olives. And don’t even get me started on the fresh-baked pita bread that comes alongside – it’s the perfect vessel for scooping up this creamy goodness. Honestly, you could stop right there and still have a reason to recommend this place. But wait, there’s more! For mains, I had the special of the day: scallop and lamb skewers served over fluffy quinoa. Both were cooked to perfection – tender, flavorful, and just the right amount of smokiness. And then, dessert. A dark chocolate torte with pistachio ice cream and morello cherry compote? Yes, please. The service was top-notch – friendly, knowledgeable, and fun without being in your face. If you’re in the area, AttaGirl is a must. Highly recommended!
Food: A • Atmosphere: A • Service: A
www.AttaGirlLA.com
** Community Activist Fred Taylor having lunch at Fishing with Dynamite.
** Real Estate Entrepreneur Larry Kosmont having dinner at Slay Steak + Fish.
Yeastie Boys Bring The Schmear
To The Shore:
Iconic Bagel Truck Parks for Good in Manhattan Beach
Manhattan Beach just scored a delicious new neighbor. Yeastie Boys Bagels, the wildly popular LA-born food truck, parked permanently at 1300 Highland Ave. Friday, June 27. Known for New York-style bagels with a West Coast twist, the truck will serve daily from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. (or until bagels vanish). Expect hits like The Mishka and Lox Deluxe, plus The Diss Track, stacked with pastrami and schmutz sauce. Founded by Evan Fox, the bagel brand has previously partnered with Pizza Hut and Taco Bell – more information available at yeastieboysbagels.com.
MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:
IN YOUR FANTASY WORLD, WHAT CARTOON CHARACTER WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE?
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)
1. ** There’s a clever multilingual pun in the name Attagirl, the new Hermosa Beach restaurant led by Chef Alice Mai. Specializing in modern Arabic cuisine, “atta” means “gift” in Arabic, making the name playful and meaningful – bold flavors, creative plates, and a culinary experience that truly lives up to its name. —- D.S., Hermosa Beach
2. ** I’m impressed with Councilman Steve Charelian’s common sense and straightforward approach. In a time when political double talk is all too common, his clarity, honesty, and practical thinking are a breath of fresh air. —- Gabe H.
3. ** “The View” isn’t a talk show, it’s a weekly tantrum from the far-left padded room. —- Alexis K., El Segundo
4. ** It sure seems to me that half of the people who write on this bulletin board are very smart and half have a screw loose. —- Troy B., Hermosa Beach
5. ** Paul Wafer for Mayor! —- Doris G.
6. ** Congratulations to Lt. Kitsios, who graduated from the California Police Chiefs Executive Leadership Institute at the Drucker School of Management. The 2-week program focuses on leadership in law enforcement. Congrats to our new ELI graduate. —- MBPD
7. ** I would love to marry Scarlett Johansson. Anyone got any ideas? —- Libby O.
8. ** Today, I spoke with a postman I’ve known for years. He told me that when he clocks in, completes his route, and returns to his car, he walks approximately 15 miles daily. Rain or shine. That’s serious cardio. Let’s hear it for our postal workers. —- Darlene M., El Porto
9. ** Did you see what just happened in New York? A 33-year-old Democratic Socialist, Zohran Mamdani, just won the Democratic primary for NYC mayor. Wake up, folks. The DSA isn’t fringe anymore – shockingly, it’s gaining real political power, not just in New York. It’s creeping into L.A. as well. Eyes wide open. —- H.G.
10. ** Everyone should have to experience a simulation of what it’s like to go through a crash on the highway before they get a license. —- Cece W.
11. ** Parking in downtown Manhattan Beach sucks! —- Layla D., Hermosa Beach
12. ** I love The Kettle, but prices are really getting high there. —- Sam H.
13. ** Welcome to California, where driving is a luxury sport! On July 1, gas taxes jump again – excise tax up to 61.2¢/gallon and a new 65¢/gallon “climate fee” from CARB. That’s $1.26 in taxes per gallon. Enjoy the view, because you sure can’t afford to go far. —- A.L., Manhattan Beach
14. ** Admit It! – Being an adult is hard. —- Suzy W.
15. ** Don’t go to Santa Monica. It’s not safe. —- Toby B., El Segundo
16. ** Pollywog Park is disgusting! Took my grandkids to play and it was covered in duck, goose, and turtle poop – everywhere! The turtles are so moss-covered they can barely move. The pond is filthy, and the whole place feels neglected. Unsanitary. Gross, gross, gross. Do better, Manhattan Beach! —- Name Withheld by Request
17. ** Endlessly grateful for Providence Urgent Care in Manhattan Beach – truly great, caring people! So much better than Exer Urgent Care in every way. Special shout-out to Mary, an incredible nurse who made all the difference. Compassion and professionalism like hers are rare. Thank you, Providence! —- Daisy J.
18. ** Bold Move for Business: Hire South Bay Talent – For FREE!: Looking to hire in the South Bay? MB Weekly has your back! Now offering FREE job postings, MB Weekly reaches thousands of local readers each week, from El Segundo to Palos Verdes. It’s simple: email your 50-word (max) job listing to MBWeekly@TimeWire.net and connect with top-tier local talent.
19. ** The old Carl’s Jr. spot in Redondo Beach is getting a fresh start! It’s set to become Fantastic Burgers, part of a small but growing chain. Renovations are underway, and it’s expected to open in about 5–6 months. —- Hal L., Redondo Beach
20. ** Would you like to host your own video segments on MB Weekly? Become a video star in the South Bay’s largest (by far) digital publication! Share your voice, build your brand, and have fun doing it. Interested? Contact us today at: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net.
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.