MANHATTAN BEACH’S LEAF BLOWER CRACKDOWN HITS A KNOTTY POLICY PATCH:
The City Council has decreed a two-pronged “carrot and stick” strategy to end the persistent use of leaf blowers, despite their ban since 1998 – a ban that gardeners and landscapers have largely ignored. The carrot: staff will heavily promote an Air Quality Management District rebate program that lets anyone trade a gas-powered blower for an electric model. The stick: stepping up enforcement, already underway, with fines starting at $250 and escalating to $1,000 for repeat offenses. Trouble is, even electric leaf blowers are technically illegal under current policy – unless outfitted with vacuum attachments. To untangle matters, the Council urged staff to increase public outreach, clarifying that electric blowers with vacuums are the only acceptable alternative under the law.
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MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Shelby Russell founder of Manhattan Beach Food & Wine, Chef Brendan Collins from Boa Steak House, Chef Jason Fullilove from Saint & Second and Alice Mai chef of AttaGirl at the 2025 Manhattan Beach Food & Wine Festival.
MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:
OH, BEHAVE – HOW RUDE!
Rude behavior is alive and well in the South Bay, according to the latest MB Weekly Reader Poll. About a third (34%) said they “almost always” or “often” encounter discourteous behavior when they’re out in public, whether at restaurants, shopping centers, or simply walking through neighborhoods. The findings reflect a growing frustration among locals who feel civility is slipping. Many cited everything from drivers ignoring crosswalks to shoppers glued to their phones while blocking aisles. Others pointed to a general lack of courtesy – fewer smiles, less patience, and more public confrontations. Still, not all feedback was negative. A majority said rude encounters remain occasional, and some praised the South Bay for being friendlier than many big-city communities. For now, though, the message is clear: Kindness counts.
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MB WEEKLY EXCLUSIVE VIDEO:
An exclusive MB Weekly video of Paul Wafer on City salaries.
Click Link To Watch:
https://youtu.be/sieXk9O3-3g
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MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
David Jackson
(South Bay Classical Academy)
PART TWO
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.
4. CHALLENGES & OPPORTUNITIES
Q: LAUNCHING A SCHOOL IS NO SMALL FEAT. WHAT DO YOU ANTICIPATE WILL BE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN OPENING A CLASSICAL SCHOOL HERE, AND HOW ARE YOU PREPARING TO OVERCOME THEM?
A: Launching a new school is never simple. We recognize that one of our greatest challenges will be introducing families to a model of education that may feel unfamiliar, even though it is rooted in centuries of proven success. Here in the South Bay, we know that families will ask: why classical education, and why now? But in that question lies our greatest opportunity. The modern world is filled with distractions and rapidly changing expectations, and parents are looking for something steady and meaningful. We are excited to be the first partner school of Great Hearts, the largest provider of classical education in America serving over 30,000 students. By drawing on the strength of Great Hearts, we bring both a proven track record and a vibrant local vision. We are preparing for challenges by building strong relationships with families, listening to their hopes for their children, and showing how classical education aligns with those aspirations. What might seem at first like a challenge – the task of introducing something new – is really the opportunity to restore what works: a timeless education that meets today’s needs.
5. NATIONAL APPEAL
Q: HOW HAS CLASSICAL EDUCATION BEEN RECEIVED ACROSS THE COUNTRY AND WHAT KIND OF OUTCOMES IS IT PRODUCING FOR THE STUDENTS ENROLLED IN THESE SCHOOLS?
A: Classical education is the fastest growing segment of education in America. There are large waiting lists at classical schools across the country, as parents are seeing the benefits of an environment that encourages both intellectual and moral development. Classical schools are opening in several states from coast to coast and we are excited to bring the first classical school of its kind to the South Bay. The outcomes for students enrolled in classical schools are profoundly impressive. The 783 graduates of Great Hearts schools in 2025 earned just over $77 million in merit-based scholarships. That same group scored, on average, 182 points higher on the SAT and 3.6 points higher on the ACT than the national average for those assessments. 51% of the 783 students will also pursue a STEM degree. While these numbers are astoundingly positive, the most important outcome is that these graduates are extremely conscientious young people who have a deep understanding of what it means to be a good citizen and are poised to live a life of great purpose.
6. LONG-TERM LEGACY
Q: LOOKING TEN YEARS AHEAD, WHAT WOULD SUCCESS LOOK LIKE FOR YOUR SCHOOL – NOT JUST IN TERMS OF ENROLLMENT, BUT IN THE LIVES OF THE STUDENTS WHO GRADUATE FROM IT?
A: The question references students who will graduate from the school, so I would say that in ten years one significant measure of success will be watching our students matriculate to college and beyond. Ultimately, true success will be found in the lives of our graduates. We want to see young men and women who can think clearly, speak with confidence, and act with integrity. We want them to be the kind of people who read deeply, who ask thoughtful questions, who delight in discovery, and who bring wisdom to bear on the challenges of their time. Success, for us, will be when a student leaves SBCA with more than knowledge – they leave with virtue and high character. They will know how to engage in civil discourse, how to serve their community, and how to live with gratitude and resilience. If ten years from now, our graduates are thriving in college and in life – not only as achievers but as thoughtful citizens and compassionate human beings – then we will have fulfilled our mission. In short, our legacy will not just be a school in the South Bay, but a generation of leaders who embody wisdom for the benefit of humanity.
www.SouthBayClassical.org
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MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Steve Charelian (MB Councilmember)
On Tuesday, September 16, the Manhattan Beach City Council discussed preparations for two major international events: the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympics. City staff, through a designated subcommittee that includes two Council delegates, presented a series of proposals aimed at ensuring community readiness and resident safety in anticipation of increased visitors and athletes. With these events two and four years away, early planning is essential to uphold Manhattan Beach’s reputation as a safe community. Public safety and emergency preparedness were identified as top priorities. Council also discussed potential policy adjustments, including short-term rental (STR) regulations and the possible extension of restaurant and bar operating hours during the events. To provide context: STRs were once permitted citywide but were banned in the late 2010s due to residential neighborhood concerns. The ban remained until State Coastal Zone rules required STRs in coastal areas west of Valley Dr./Ardmore Ave., where roughly 35 – 40% of the City’s housing units. One proposal now under consideration is a community survey to gauge support for temporarily expanding STRs citywide during the events. This could add hundreds of rentals in areas currently protected by the ban. However, past surveys, including one last year, clearly show residents value quality of life, strong city services, and sound fiscal management. Any proposed changes must strike a careful balance between planning for what could be an influx of 30-50% more summer visitors and protecting the well-being of our residential and business community. I believe in preserving and protecting our small town character. While I support thoughtful planning, I do not support citywide STRs, even temporarily, if they compromise neighborhood serenity and quality of life. Stay informed and engaged by visiting: www.manhattanbeach.gov.
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Butterfly Strong Foundation Rallies South Bay For Breast Cancer Awareness Month:
This October, The Butterfly Strong Foundation will light up the South Bay with hope, strength, and solidarity through a robust lineup of events for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Founded on the belief that strength grows through community, education, and compassion, the nonprofit is committed to turning pain into purpose and ensuring no one faces breast cancer alone. The month-long calendar kicks off October 1 with Hermosa in Pink at Palmilla, featuring a pink champagne toast, a group photo under the illuminated Pier Plaza, and special giveaways. On October 12, Shine in Pink brings the community together for two high-energy dance fundraisers in Redondo Beach. Later, on October 21, Slay in Pink offers a curated fundraising dinner at Slay Steak and Fish House in Manhattan Beach, with wine pairings and a live auction. The month concludes on October 31 with Soho Spooky Sunset Flow, a beach yoga and costume contest at sunset. Together, these events embody the Foundation’s mission to raise awareness, fund vital research, and inspire lasting change.
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Building Safer Schools – MBEF Boosts MBUSD With Extra $125,000 Grant:
The Manhattan Beach Education Foundation (MBEF) has awarded an additional $125,000 grant to the Manhattan Beach Unified School District (MBUSD), on top of the $7,001,074 in funding accepted by the Trustees in June. The new funds will establish a Student Services Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) dedicated to fostering positive school culture, student safety, and overall well-being.
www.MBUSD.org
MB WEEKLY – OPEN LETTER TO THE COMMUNITY:
by (Name Withheld by Request)
As a lifelong CPA who has had the privilege of counseling three Fortune 500 companies, it seems clear to me that Manhattan Beach is governed by a group of pleasant, well-meaning managers, not leaders. The difference matters. Leadership requires vision, courage, and the willingness to make unpopular but necessary decisions. Look no further than our City’s budget. “Excess” is the mildest word I could use to describe the reckless spending patterns currently on display. When leaders fail to recognize the limits of taxpayer generosity, they cross a dangerous line from stewardship into extravagance. The greatest failure, however, isn’t in the numbers – it’s in the mindset. The team in charge seems militantly unwilling to utter that beautiful English word: STOP!
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Luka’s Mega-Buy Puts Manhattan Beach on the Global Luxury Map:
Does one buyer change an entire real estate market? Not quite, says South Bay real estate broker Ed Kaminsky – but Luka Dončić’s record-breaking purchase has undeniably turned heads. The Dallas Mavericks star just set a new mark for the highest single-lot residential sale in Manhattan Beach, underscoring the city’s status as one of Los Angeles’ premier luxury enclaves. Kaminsky, who previously handled a $25.75 million Strand deal, explained that while one sale doesn’t shift the entire market, such transactions spotlight Manhattan Beach as a haven for discerning buyers who value design, privacy, and community. “Attention draws more eyes,” Kaminsky noted, “and that can influence pricing.” Though the Hill Section home is far from the city’s most valuable property – some estates remain quietly held and rumored to be worth over $100 million – Luka’s splash confirms that Manhattan Beach offers something rare: world-class living with small-town charm.
Fisker Files Bankruptcy, Future In Doubt:
Fisker Inc., the embattled electric car startup, has filed for bankruptcy protection in Delaware, marking a dramatic collapse for the once-promising EV challenger. The company’s only product, the Ocean SUV, has been idled since May at its Austrian factory. Founded in 2007 and revived in 2016 by Henrik Fisker, the automaker has struggled with financial instability. Sources report that funds are nearly depleted, employees face layoffs, and headquarters staff in Manhattan Beach have been ordered to relocate to La Palma.
MB WEEKLY – Q & A:
Larry Zimbalist (Community Activist)
Q: IF YOU COULD HAVE DINNER WITH ANY THREE PEOPLE, LIVING OR DEAD, WHO WOULD YOU CHOOSE AND WHY?
A: Alexander the Great. He became a king at 20 and died at 32. In between those years he concurred lands of over 2 million square miles. Moses – He led the Jews out of Egypt and spoke directly to God. Great dinner guest. Mark Twain famous author but also known for his humor, cynicism and commentary on the human condition “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.” I would need some storytelling and levity at my dinner.
Q: WHAT’S A QUIRKY OR SURPRISING TALENT YOU HAVE THAT MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT?
A: I have an excellent memory and can recall distant events clearly and I can often name a song that I haven’t heard in decades after hearing one to two notes.
Q: WHAT’S THE MOST ADVENTUROUS THING YOU’VE EVER DONE – OR WANT TO DO?
A: New Years Day 1989, I went tandem para gliding. I was on skis, with an expert, we skied down the mountain and then started gliding around the Alps. Was remarkable. But one time was enough!
Q: IF YOU COULD INSTANTLY MASTER ANY SKILL OR HOBBY, WHAT WOULD YOU PICK?
A: I would love to master golf.
https://www.instagram.com/lzimbalist/
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Larry Kosmont with son and daughter at Arthur J.
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Founding Mothers Deserve Fairness – Former MB Mayor Rallies Behind Neptunian Woman’s Society:
Former Manhattan Beach Mayor Mark Burton is calling on the City Council to “do the right thing” and waive special event fees for the Neptunian Women’s Society (NWS). Burton noted that while many nonprofits receive fee waivers, the City recently denied NWS’s request – despite the organization’s century-long legacy of philanthropy and leadership. Founded more than 100 years ago, the Neptunian Woman’s Society spearheaded the effort to incorporate Manhattan Beach and continues to embody its motto, “Philanthropy Matters, Give Back.” The group funds scholarships, hosts student art shows, and supports nonprofits such as the Single Mother Project. He added that few groups are more deserving of civic support, urging the Council to reverse course and grant the waiver quickly.
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MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Fred Taylor (Community Activist)
Has our culture lost its moral compass? I was a follower of Charlie Kirk. I tuned into his national radio show regularly. Why? Because he was an amazingly articulate spokesman for the Conservative worldview. And foremost, he led with his unapologetic faith in the Savior. A rare and wholly unique combination. He believed the Judeo-Christian values which founded our nation should be defended and promoted. 55 of the 56 founding Fathers were committed followers of Jesus Christ. And those timeless Biblical principles have served us well for 250 years. It’s the cultural assault on these values that has brought chaos and division, not Charlie Kirk. These include destruction of the nuclear family, the trans agenda, D.E.I. … Charlie opposed this destructive ideology and for that he was murdered. This week, the true depth of cultural depravity was witnessed by the hordes of people celebrating his death. Far too many have allowed their conscience to become seared. A return to civility and mutual respect for even our political enemies must return for us to survive.
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1. ** The thought that Cardi B is a mother makes me sick to my stomach. —- Ali P.
2. ** Manhattan Beach has a goose problem at Polliwog Park, and it’s out of control. The geese have practically taken over, leaving behind filth, noise, and chaos. Families can’t enjoy the park, kids dodge droppings, and the city seems asleep at the wheel. Enough is enough – fix this mess! —- Dr. Peter L.
3. ** People who rent storage lockers probably end up paying several times the cost of the contents. —- Hans R.
4. ** The speed limit is 8 mph for the bike path. With e-bike speeds of 30 mph or more and the heavy weight of an e-bike, a pedestrian or bike accident may result in serious bodily injury. With higher speeds, there is always a significant risk of injury. Send the right message by impounding e-bike speeders. —- Mark Burton, Manhattan Beach
5. ** The Roundhouse Aquarium presentation on surfing dolphins drew a standing-room-only crowd to the library’s multi-purpose room. The event was held on Wednesday, September 17, with a panel that included John Dorsey, Jason Shanks, and Eric Martin. —- Lynn Gross
6. ** I rented my furnished condo in Hermosa Beach in two days with a simple fee ad in the MB Weekly Free Bulletin Board. Thank you, MB Weekly! —- Grace M., Hermosa Beach
7. ** Hermosa Beach Police arrested two juveniles after an alleged armed robbery and assault on the morning of September 18th at Pier Plaza and The Strand. The victim, an elderly man, was attacked as suspects brandished a replica firearm and fled. Officers arrived within one minute of the 911 call, police reported. —- Editor’s Note
8. ** Your recent MB Weekly video of the Manhattan Beach Food & Wine event at Manhattan Village was fab! I loved attending in person and then reliving the entire experience through your video. It captured the energy, flavors, and fun perfectly – what a fabulous way to showcase our community. —- Kiley R.
9. ** I love the Church Lady. —- Abby W.
10. ** Inspiring sit-down with David Jackson about the new South Bay school. His vision, commitment, and energy feel contagious. Exciting to see bold leadership shaping the future of education in our community. A must-read interview for anyone who cares about students, teachers, and tomorrow’s opportunities in the South Bay. —- Dr. Harold L.
11. ** The Happy Hour at Hook & Plow in Manhattan Beach is worth celebrating! The food is inspiring and offered at great prices that make it easy to indulge. And then there’s the view – wow! With the ocean as your backdrop, it’s the perfect setting to unwind after a long day. Whether you’re enjoying the delicious bites or simply taking in the stunning scenery, it’s an experience that keeps me coming back. Highly recommend! —- Angela P., Hermosa Beach
12. ** Let me guess – another bloated title, another six-figure salary. The City of Manhattan Beach proudly announces Masa Alkire as its shiny new Community Development Director. Translation: taxpayers cough up another $200,000. The city is sure generous with our money, huh? —- T.T., Manhattan Beach
13. ** Turning Point USA has now received an incredible 62,000+ CHAPTER REQUESTS from students in just 8 days. —- Walter I.
14. ** Heads up, Hermosa Beach: starting in October, $55 for a street sweeping ticket and $75 for an expired meter. Translation? The city has found yet another creative way to squeeze its residents and visitors. —- Hope S., Hermosa Beach
15. ** We love Karen Komatinsky. —- J.T.
16. ** Did you know that the 350+employees of the City of Manhattan Beach have an average salary of over $197,000? To make matters worse, the recently negotiated contract will increase to $224,000 over the next 3 years. Am I crazy for thinking this is excessive? —- Paul Wafer
17. ** Wake up, stupid. MB neighbors: In August alone, Manhattan Beach saw 16 car burglaries – nine of them in unlocked vehicles or with keys left nearby. This isn’t rocket science: lock your damn cars. Don’t gift-wrap your belongings for thieves. Common sense, idiots! Protect yourself and your community. —- Staci W.
18. ** Coyote alert! Just 30 minutes ago – three of them, two adults and a pup – were roaming the greenbelt near 27th & Valley/Ardmore. One darted into the Valley tree section. It’s broad daylight, with tons of people and dogs everywhere. This is dangerous. Keep eyes open and pets safe. —- Keith K.
19. ** There are many on SNL, so I’m sure you’ll get a lot of these, but Linda Richman was cool. Coffee Talk: Liz Rosenberg and Barbra Streisand – SNL —- Rick McQuillin
20. ** STUDENT ART NIGHT – 10/10, 5–7 PM – Support MCHS arts students at this fun, student-led evening of creativity! Browse and buy student art and crafts, enjoy tacos, music, Costa merch, and more. Free admission for all! Students must sign up for a booth by October 1st.
21. ** The reader polls are my favorite part of your outstanding MB Weekly digital publication. You consistently capture the pulse of the South Bay community with honesty and insight – no B.S., just straight to the point, and that’s brilliantly refreshing! I look forward to these polls every week because they highlight what truly matters to the locals while offering a fresh, unfiltered perspective. It’s clear why MB Weekly is a must-read for so many. You sure live up to your intriguing slogan: “Once A Week, But Never Weakly,” delivering bold and fearless content that keeps us all informed and engaged. Thank you for being a true voice for the community! —- Ashley M., Hermosa Beach
22. ** Dear MB Weekly: Our community benefits from your open and stimulating dialogue. Thank you. —- Rhonda C.
23. ** As a 35-year MB resident, I echo former Mayor Dan Stern: our City Council performs an endless ballet to dodge leadership. Hire a pricey consultant. Discuss endlessly. Kick the can further down the road. Manhattan Beach deserves decisive leadership, not perpetual dithering masked as process. —- Name Withheld by Request
24. ** After nearly 30 years of vacancy, Hawthorne Plaza Shopping Center faces a court-ordered deadline: either redevelop or demolish within a year. City leaders consider its revival crucial for downtown recovery and neighborhood revitalization. —- Editor’s Note
25. ** We are growing, and Manhattan Beach Community Church is seeking a Nursery Caregiver to provide childcare on Sunday mornings from approximately 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Must be 18 years old, and a background check and Safe Church training are required. The pay is $25/hour. Please email businessmanager@mbccucc.org if interested.
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