MB WEEKLY EXCLUSIVE VIDEO:
An exclusive MB Weekly video of Manhattan Beach Food and Wine in Manhattan Village last weekend.
https://youtu.be/3Q5ysvcUrgU
Manhattan Beach Food And Wine Sells Out Again:
Nearly 50 acclaimed chefs, a 40,000-square-foot outdoor venue, and a full house of food lovers defined the second annual Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, held September 12-13 at Manhattan Village. Organizers confirmed all 1,000 daily tickets sold out, cementing the event as one of the South Bay’s most sought-after gatherings. Chefs from across the region – including Ben Ford and Gabriel Lindsey of Galerie on Sunset in West Hollywood – dazzled guests with inventive dishes such as weiser melon with yogurt and pistachio. For the first time, the BeachLife DJ Music Stage brought live energy to the culinary affair, while iHeart Radio’s FORK Report with host Neil Saavedra spotlighted chefs in pre-event conversations. Beyond indulgence, the festival benefited C-CAP (Careers Through Culinary Arts Program), a nonprofit helping underprivileged students pursue culinary dreams through mentorship and scholarships – ensuring the flavor of the weekend will linger long after the last toast.
MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:
ISN’T THAT SPECIAL? CHURCH LADY NAMED FAVORITE SNL CHARACTER OF ALL TIME
Move over Coneheads, Wayne and Garth, and even the great Matt Foley motivational speaker. In a new MB Weekly reader poll, Dana Carvey’s iconic “Church Lady” was crowned as the single greatest Saturday Night Live character of all time. The snarky, sanctimonious caricature – known for her catchphrase “Well, isn’t that special?” – beat out a crowded field of SNL legends, including John Belushi’s Samurai, Eddie Murphy’s Gumby, and Will Ferrell’s Cowbell Guy. The selection underscores the character’s enduring cultural punch. First appearing in 1986, “The Church Lady” skewered hypocrisy with biting wit – and evidently, South Bay readers haven’t lost their taste for righteous comedy.
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MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
David Jackson
(South Bay Classical Academy)
PART ONE
The following interview highlights South Bay Classical Academy, a K-5 classical school opening in El Segundo in August 2026. In the interview, David Jackson, the Founding Head of School, discusses the school, its vision, the benefit to South Bay families, as well as challenges and opportunities in building the school. Eventually, the school will grow into a K-12 classical school. David began his career as a teacher and administrator at Oak Hall School in Gainesville, FL, where he built one of the best classical language programs in the country. Before arriving in the South Bay, David served as Head of School at Canterbury School in Fort Wayne, IN. At Canterbury, David led the school through the COVID pandemic, successfully keeping the school open for its students and families, in addition to raising nearly $20 million for the school’s most recent capital campaign. For more information on the school, please visit southbayclassical.org.
1. ORIGINS & VISION
Q: WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE THE CLASSICAL EDUCATION MODEL, AND HOW DO YOU SEE IT ADDRESSING THE UNIQUE NEEDS OF FAMILIES IN THE SOUTH BAY?
A: My journey through the world of classical education began in high school. I was fortunate enough to walk into the classroom of an extraordinarily inspirational Latin teacher named Nancy Allen. Miss Allen was a great encouragement to her students. She held sessions after school, took us to JCL (Junior Classical League) competitions, created an overall culture of scholarship, and fostered a true love of learning in her students. I know firsthand the spark that classical education can ignite in students and how it can change lives for the better. In my brief time here, I have spoken with so many in the South Bay who are yearning for a return to what works in education. Classical education cultivates not only knowledge but also wisdom, character, and civic responsibility. We believe families here are hungry for an approach that focuses on teaching children how to think and not what to think.
2. CURRICULUM & PHILOSOPHY
Q: CLASSICAL EDUCATION EMPHASIZES GRAMMAR, LOGIC, AND RHETORIC. HOW DO YOU PLAN TO TRANSLATE THESE TIMELESS PILLARS INTO A MODERN CURRICULUM THAT PREPARES STUDENTS FOR TODAY’S RAPIDLY CHANGING WORLD?
A: Sometimes referred to as the “Trivium,” the disciplines of grammar, logic, and rhetoric provide the roadmap for a student’s K-12 development. In the early years (the grammar stage), students love memorization and rhythm, so we channel that joy into phonics, poetry, mathematics, and foundational knowledge across subjects. As they grow and mature into the middle grades (the logic stage), they naturally become more argumentative and curious – that’s when formal logic, debate, and analysis come into play. Finally, as teenagers (the rhetoric stage), students long to express themselves, and classical education equips them to do so through the art of rhetoric, persuasion, public speaking, and socratic style conversations across all subjects. We believe in setting the bar high for our students, because in the right environment children will absolutely thrive. The curriculum is challenging, but not in a way that discourages students – quite the opposite – It inspires them to achieve greater things. At the turn of the century, educators constantly worked to assess “twenty first century skills.” A quarter of a century later, we see how rapidly the world has changed and continues to change. We also know that it is critical to prepare the students of today for careers and jobs that do not yet exist. A classical education, with its emphasis on exploring the full range of the human experience, is the best vehicle for equipping students for the unknowns of the future.
3. COMMUNITY & CULTURE
Q: A NEW SCHOOL IS MORE THAN ACADEMICS – IT’S A COMMUNITY. WHAT KIND OF CULTURAL AND MORAL ENVIRONMENT DO YOU HOPE TO CREATE FOR STUDENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES?
A: A school is not just a collection of classrooms; it is a living community. At South Bay Classical Academy, we are as committed to forming hearts as we are to training minds. Our motto, Sapientia Pro Humanitate – “Wisdom for the Benefit of Humanity” – captures that vision. We believe that education should inspire students to look outward, to use their gifts in service to others, and to cultivate virtues such as courage, justice, and respect. We envision a culture animated by wonder and joy. That means students will delight in their learning, whether reciting poetry, studying the Constitution, or exploring the natural world. It also means parents will be active partners in the life of the school, welcomed into classrooms and engaged in conversation with teachers. Ultimately, our goal is to foster an environment where character, civility, and curiosity are the norm. South Bay Classical Academy will be a place where students learn not only to think deeply, but also to treat others with kindness and dignity.
www.SouthBayClassical.org
Fête Bistro by Slay:
Traditional and Innovative French-Mediterranean Cuisine
www.FeteBySlay.com
P.S. I Love You Foundation Lights Up The Beach For Kids In Need:
What began as a simple gathering on the sand turned into something extraordinary this past Saturday, thanks to the P.S. I Love You Foundation and its tireless mentors, staff, event crew, and sponsors. Children arriving at the beach were greeted with the unforgettable words, “Someone is waiting for you.” For many, those words meant being seen, valued, and celebrated – perhaps for the very first time. Volunteers gave not just their time and energy, but their laughter, compassion, and love, creating memories these kids will carry for months. Youth groups, including National Charity League, National League of Young Men, Amigos Unidos, Sandpiper Juniors, Kids Contribute, and Hermanos, worked side by side, proving kindness and joy can change lives.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Jake, a young, happy MB Weekly reader.
Estell Boutique:
www.EstellBoutiques.com
Lakers Star Luka Doncic Scores $25M Manhattan Beach Mansion:
Los Angeles Lakers superstar Luka Doncic has taken his winning streak off the court with a significant real estate move. In late August, the 26-year-old Slovenian guard purchased the Manhattan Beach home of retired tennis legend Maria Sharapova for a staggering $25 million.
MB WEEKLY – RESTAURANT REVIEW:
by Darby Winston
(The Arthur J)
I recently had the chance to sample the new brunch menu at The Arthur J in Manhattan Beach, and it’s a triumph. Chef-owner David LeFevre and General Manager Aaron have taken the steakhouse’s signature wood-fired grill and classic sensibilities, and infused them with playful, inspired touches that make Sunday morning feel like something very special. From the moment you arrive, the warm, smoky aroma from the live-oak embers sets the tone – this is no ordinary brunch. The standout dish for me was the wood-grilled short rib with a mellow chimichurri: tender, rich, and intensely flavored without overwhelming the palate. The twist on French toast, crisp on the outside yet pillowy within, drizzled with bourbon-maple syrup and topped with seasonal fruit, offers an unexpected sweetness that balances the meal beautifully. And the eggs – perfectly cooked, attentive in their accompaniments – show that even simple staples are elevated here. Service was just as impressive: relaxed but refined, with servers who know the menu inside out and are genuinely excited to share it. The ambiance – bright natural light, mellow buzz of conversation – supports lingering, savoring. All told, Arthur J’s brunch is a refined feast: steakhouse strength meets inventive brunch charm.
Food: A • Service: A • Atmosphere: A
www.TheArthurJ.com
From Johnny Rockets to Toner Society:
After 33 years serving Manhattan Beach at Johnny Rockets
Chris Khaleghian now brings the same commitment to service and value through Toner Society. We’ve been in business for 12 years, providing everything Office Depot and Staples offer – but at better prices and with better service.
- Lower Prices: OEM toner cheaper than Office Depot & Staples, remanufactured cartridges up to 50% less.
- Better Service: Fast, reliable, and trusted locally.
- Flexible Terms: Net 30 available (they don’t).
- Nationwide Coverage: From Manhattan Beach to across the U.S., we’ve got you covered.
Trusted by schools, car dealerships, doctors’ offices, shipping companies, Domino’s, Papa John’s, and food companies nationwide.
www.TonerSociety.com
Tradition In Full Swing – Manhattan Beach Hometown Fair Returns For Its 53rd Year:
Manhattan Beach is gearing up for one of its most beloved traditions – the 53rd Annual Manhattan Beach Hometown Fair, taking place Saturday, October 4 through Sunday, October 5 at Live Oak Park & Valley/Ardmore. The two-day celebration promises something for everyone, featuring live music and performances on multiple stages, as well as a petting zoo, pony rides, and Kid Country favorites. Families can enjoy games, face painting, and community showcases featuring local talent, while shoppers browse through arts and crafts booths filled with unique creations from local makers. Food lovers will delight in dozens of nonprofit-run food booths, with proceeds supporting community causes. For adults, beer and wine gardens will be open with valid ID, while refreshing non-alcoholic options are available for all ages. Organized entirely by volunteers since 1972, the Hometown Fair embodies community spirit. Admission is free, and the event is family-friendly; dogs are welcome on a leash.
Manhattan Beach Appoints Masa Alkire As New Community Development Director:
The City of Manhattan Beach has officially appointed Masa Alkire, AICP, as its new Community Development Director, bringing more than 25 years of expertise in urban planning and community development. Alkire most recently served as Assistant Director and City Planner for Beverly Hills, where he led a 20-person planning division and oversaw the certification of the City’s Housing Element. His career highlights include managing the 1.3 million square-foot One Beverly Hills Overlay Specific Plan and the 3.5 million square-foot Raytheon Specific Plan in El Segundo. City Manager Talyn Mirzakhanian praised the hire, noting Alkire’s “commitment to collaborative problem-solving” and his track record with major development projects. Officials believe his leadership will help Manhattan Beach advance its planning and sustainability goals while safeguarding its cherished small-town character. Alkire begins his new role effective immediately.
Harris & Associates:
See why so many South Bay families are moving to Harris & Associates!
www.HarrisAdvisory.com
MB WEEKLY – Q & A:
Karen Komatinsky
Q: ASTROLOGY SIGN:
A: Leo
Q: FAVORITE MB RESTAURANTS:
A: Uncle Bill’s or The Kettle for breakfast, Cafe Altamura for lunch and depending upon the mood, El Sombrero or Slay!!
Q: THE BEATLES OR THE STONES:
A: Either one or both – preferably with volume way up, windows down on a sunny day!
Q: DINNER WITH BEYONCE OR ELON MUSK:
A: I think I would prefer to have dinner with an historical figure like Queen Elizabeth, The Wright Brothers, Marie Curie or Thomas Edison. I like the idea of talking with deep thinkers!
Q: CONCERNS FOR THE FUTURE OF MB:
A: Budget is always top of mind and the reality is that it dictates how our City grows. While MB looks to launch and complete future projects and programs, it will need to be strategic, creative and respectful of those budget realities. I have always been a big believer in public service and have been involved in various facets to make our community better. I am now a part of a group that has proudly started The LoveMB Foundation. In partnership with the City, our remit is to help identify, fundraise and support City projects and programs that will add value, bring beauty and make life better for all of MB. More to come from The LoveMB Foundation – “Love Where You Live”!
https://www.facebook.com/karen.komatinsky/
** Kelly Stroman, director of the Downtown Manhattan Beach Business and Professional Association, having coffee at Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf in Manhattan Village.
** City Councilman Steve Charelian at JOEY in Manhattan Beach.
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
Eight MCHS Students Shine As National Merit Semifinalists:
This week, Manhattan Beach’s Mira Costa High School proudly announced that eight of its students have been named semifinalists in the 71st annual National Merit Scholarship Program. They join a select group of just 16,000 students nationwide honored for their exceptional academic achievement. The distinguished semifinalists are: Miles Campbell, Audrey Henry, Catherine Jackson, Emilia Malis, Lachlan Murphy, Mary Rothermel, Brianna Sulaiman, and Collin Tarnay. To qualify, students earned top scores on the 2024 PSAT/NMSQT®, coupled with strong academic records and faculty recommendations. They now advance to compete for finalist status, which requires a detailed application highlighting academic excellence, extracurricular leadership, and community involvement.
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MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by (Name Withheld by Request)
I’m a frequent cyclist riding the strand between Redondo and Marina Del Rey. I’m not easily scared, but some of the e-bikers are extremely dangerous and have me very nervous. When a collision occurs, the energy contained in an average-weight rider and an approximately 55-pound bike going 30 mph is enough to cause serious harm or death. If you’re riding recklessly at those speeds past other strand users, you are showing that you don’t care. Parents, grow a pair and teach your children. Easy solution, use a drone to record their speed and have an officer waiting up ahead to deal with them. A few confiscations will send a message. Please do something.
Agree? Disagree? Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
BELLA BUILDERS:
A Local Residential Builder
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
WHO READS MB WEEKLY:
MB City Councilman Steve Charelian. Sign Up For Free:
www.MBWeekly.net
MBPD Tips To Prevent Bank Jugging:
Bank jugging is the act of following someone after they’ve made a large cash withdrawal, with the intent to burglarize their vehicle and steal the cash.
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Avoid counting or displaying large amounts of cash in public.
- Don’t display bank envelopes or cash bags openly while walking to your car.
- If you suspect you’re being followed, do not go home – drive to a police station or public place and call for help.
- Never leave cash or bank documents in plain sight inside your vehicle.
There were 953 calls for service, 22 arrests, 53 reports taken, and 13 traffic collisions from September 4 to 10, according to MBPD.
Help Fix California:
GET INVOLVED
www.FixCalifornia.com
1. ** Penalties are on the rise. The Hermosa Beach City Council unanimously approved a gradual three-year increase in fines for street sweeping and parking meter violations. While staff pushed for immediate hikes – $38 to $55 and $53 to $75 – the council opted for a slower rollout to ease residents into higher costs. —- Editor’s Note
2. ** To quell our anguish, we donated $100 today to Turning Point USA. The moment I clicked “submit,” a wave of relief came over me. Sometimes the smallest actions restore the biggest hope. We immediately felt better. Care to join us in supporting their mission? —- Mr. and Mrs. Henry and Cindi P.
3. ** Torrance has a new top cop. Robert Dunn, who has been serving as interim chief since May, will now take on the role permanently, starting in September. Dunn, a longtime assistant chief, succeeds Jeremiah Hart. His exact salary is undisclosed, though the maximum package tops $402,000. —- Editor’s Note
4. ** The Manhattan Beach Fire and Police departments honored 9/11 with a joint memorial service at the city’s 9/11 Memorial site. Located at 15th Street and Valley Drive, the site features two steel beams from the World Trade Center, which were received and dedicated by Manhattan Beach in 2007. —- Editor’s Note
5. ** America’s most soulless leftists celebrated the murder of Charlie Kirk. Many are losing their jobs as a consequence. University of Michigan academic advisor Lydia Fettig called the killing “prudent” and “rational,” and plenty of other examples exist. —- Miranda S.
6. ** The South Bay’s love affair with beach volleyball thrived at the Hermosa Beach Open. On September 7, Alison Cerutti and Alvaro Filho captured the men’s title, while Kelly Cheng and Molly Shaw took the women’s crown. Hundreds gathered for finals and legends play, with $150,000 on the line. —- Editor’s Note
7. ** It’s over! – Galleria https://ktla.com/news/local-news/south-bay-mall-redevelopment-moves-forward-after-foreclosure/ —- Tim G.
8. ** MOST DEFINITELY AGREE – with Mark Burton on the escalating chaos in the downtown area. —- Heather F., Manhattan Beach
9. ** A Hawthorne couple, Ida Helen Brockman and Malachi Xavier Whalen, were sentenced to life in prison without parole for torturing and murdering Brockman’s 7-year-old daughter, A’Miya Dawson. Convicted in July after a 10-week trial, they were arrested in 2021 when doctors found the child’s injuries inconsistent with their claims. —- Editor’s Note
10. ** I love the MB Weekly reader polls. Fascinating. Thank you. —- Marci M.
11. ** Fall Internship Openings: Boundless Media – award-winning PR & branding firm – has two rare fall internship spots. Gain real hands-on experience & mentorship. Requirements: 15 flexible remote hrs/week + weekly Zoom. Hungry to learn? Apply now. AmandaK@BoundlessMediaUSA.com | BoundlessMediaUSA.com
12. ** 24 Hour Fitness in Manhattan Beach is closing its doors on September 24, at 5 p.m. Members and classes will move to the Hawthorne club at 2831 W. 120th St. —- Alice W.
13. ** Turning Point USA has received 18,000 new chapter requests since Charlie Kirk’s assassination. They had 9,000 college chapters and 1,100 high school chapters before this. —- Kay D.
14. ** Torrance may soon make it illegal for homeless people to refuse shelter, potentially creating military-style tent camps. City Council directed staff to draft an ordinance, led by Councilmember Aurelio Mattucci, modeled after San Jose’s “Responsibility to Shelter Initiative,” which allows arrests after three refusals of shelter. —- Editor’s Note
15. ** It was a fun day on the beach with the Culture Club and over 100 kids from neighboring cities on Saturday! For many, it was their first time at the beach. The kids were great and so willing to learn to surf and boogie board! I’m so proud of the young volunteers from MB sharing their time and water skills. —- Joe Franklin, Manhattan Beach
16. ** To contribute to TPUSA to further Charlie Kirk’s legacy, visit: TPUSA.com/donate.To. To get involved with TPUSA, visit: TPUSA.com/getinvolved. To start a TPUSA chapter at your college or Club America at your high school, visit: TPUSA.com/startachapter —- Nancy M.
17. ** I love Uncle Bill’s! —- Wes C.
18. ** When will our insane world stop giving third, fourth, and fifth chances to psychotic vagrants and criminals? Why does our sick society bend over backward for repeat offenders while law-abiding citizens live in fear? Compassion without accountability isn’t compassion – it’s chaos. —- Abby W.
19. ** Voting is a privilege of citizenship. So, I am wholeheartedly in favor of Voter ID Laws. —- Mark Burton, Manhattan Beach
20. ** Funny phone call between William Shatner & Leonard Nimoy https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pamx5XMDxeM —- Mark M.
21. ** I loved Mark Burton’s provocative video question: Can people change? It hits at the heart of human nature, redemption, and resilience. The responses say as much about us as the question itself. Thank you, Mark, for sparking a dialogue that feels urgent, timeless, and deeply personal. —- Dr. Lesley T.
22. ** The Emmys provide Americans a chance to see the most Hollywood celebrities without having to attend a Democratic Party fundraiser. —- Clive E.
23. ** Yes, I’m in favor of voters having to show their ID. What’s Next? No ID to buy Alcohol? —- Heather Fielding
24. ** ID to vote should be universal. You have to show ID to get on a plane, cash a check, prove your age to buy alcohol – voting is at least as important. —- Joe Fusco
25. ** Every new credit card expiration date feels like a lifetime away. But before you know it, a constipated-looking barista is telling you your charge has failed. —- Felice V.
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