MB WEEKLY READER POLL:
67% OF READERS FIND MB WEEKLY “INDEPENDENT” AND “UNBIASED”
In a recent reader poll, MB Weekly continues to earn high marks for its commitment to unbiased independence, with 67% of respondents describing the publication as “independent” and “unbiased.” The poll highlights the community’s growing trust in MB Weekly as a reliable news source, particularly in today’s often polarized media landscape. Known for its candid and inclusive coverage, the publication has gained a loyal following among those who value a balanced perspective. One reader commented, “MB Weekly doesn’t pander to any political agenda, and that’s refreshing.” As other news outlets struggle to maintain objectivity, MB Weekly’s dedication to fairness resonates deeply with its audience.
www.MBWeekly.net
MB WEEKLY EXCLUSIVE: COMMENTARY BY JOE FRANKLIN (MAYOR OF MANHATTAN BEACH)
(PART TWO)
The employees making over $400k are firefighters and police officers, mainly due to overtime. Hiring new folks is hard because fewer people want to be either. This is a nationwide phenomenon. Is Mr. Wafer saying our firefighters and police officers are overpaid? He certainly didn’t say that during the impasse a few years ago – quite the opposite. We’ve done the salary surveys during negotiations, and they have always shown our salaries to be on average for the cities surveyed, not at the top. Perhaps Mr. Wafer missed meaningful conversations about the sales tax increase with the Council. The additional revenue generated by the one-half cent increase is meant to keep funds local instead of sending them off to LA County or elsewhere. This will provide an ongoing revenue stream to address our infrastructure needs, not hiring or paying more employees. We addressed our operational needs by passing the storm drain increase earlier this year. Now we need to address all the projects and maintenance people want but we can’t otherwise afford, such as:
- a new parking structure downtown
- new community centers
- better roads
- replacing aging water and sewer lines
- wider sidewalks for outdoor dining, if approved
The City has nearly $200 million in unfunded projects (referred to as our Capital Improvement Plan or CIP) that residents have requested. However, there’s no way to pay for them except through an ongoing revenue stream. It is also essential to keep our AAA bond rating to get the best possible rates for borrowing, should that be needed. If Mr. Wafer were to compare MB to other cities of its size, we run a very lean operation and do more with less every day. Also, Mr. Wafer doesn’t point out that visitors, not residents, pay 61% of our sales taxes. Nor does he acknowledge the community’s needs in terms of infrastructure and how the demands on cities for additional unfunded mandates and reporting from Sacramento (and even the Federal Government) have grown exponentially over the years. This has increased our costs dramatically. Yes, we apply for grants for any of these projects, but they never cover all the expenses. We have copies of our detailed budgets for residents to review and even take home if they want. Every spring, we have multiple public budget sessions to inform our residents of the details of the numbers. Not many residents attend these sessions or write public comments. Were we on Council to read into this that our residents are content with the budgets, we might not work as hard as we do to keep costs in line. But we on Council do work hard with the help of staff to find efficiencies to keep our capital and operating costs in line.
www.ManhattanBeach.gov
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Some faces of the Manhattan Beach Police Department. Feel free to send your photo to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Mary Kelley
(23rd Street Jewelers)
Q: DO YOU BELIEVE IN UNCONDITIONAL LOVE?
A: YES, especially between siblings. My 3 are all very different but I love them.
Q: HAVE YOU HAD A BAD RELATIONSHIP IN THE PAST?
A: YES
Q: HAVE YOU EVER BROKEN UP WITH SOMEONE OVER TEXT MESSAGE?
A: NO
Q: HAVE YOU EVER DATED SOMEONE YOUR FAMILY DID NOT LIKE?
A: NO
Q: HAVE YOU EVER FORGOTTEN A PARTNER’S BIRTHDAY?
A: NO
Q: PARTNER HABITS THAT ANNOY YOU?
A: Of course, as marriage partners we do, but we understand each others personality, and you can’t and shouldn’t try to change each other. It wouldn’t work anyway!! lol!
Q: WOULD YOU EVER TELL A WHITE LIE TO YOUR PARTNER?
A: YES, I’d tell my partner a white lie but only to spare potential hurt feelings.
Q: DO YOU BELIEVE IN GIVING EACH OTHER SPACE IN A RELATIONSHIP?
A: YES! Giving each other space insures individuality.
Q: DO YOU BELIEVE IN MARRIAGE?
A: YES
Q: ARE YOU A MORNING PERSON?
A: NO
www.23rdStreetJewelers.com
Tin Roof Bistro:
The word is out – Happy Hour at Tin Roof Bistro is the talk of the town. From 4-6 p.m. “Join us for the best deals, great bites, and an unbeatable vibe. See what everyone’s raving about and make your own happy hour memories.”
HAPPY HOUR
Sunday – Thursday 4 – 6 PM
Porch & Bar Only
www.TinRoofBistro.com
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Gary Moore (pictured above the “Service station…” sign) owned Ercole’s from 1972 until his passing in 2015. An avid fisherman, he and his friends would bring their catches of the day into Erc’s and have the cook fix them on the grill. Feel free to send your photo to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Mark Burton (Former Mayor of Manhattan Beach)
Please don’t be naive! The 1/2 cent sales tax that will generate over $5 million in additional revenue is specially designed to fund the new city union contracts for 2025. It’s that simple.
Agree? Disagree? Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
Manhattan Beach Sand Dune Park Renovation Authorized, Missing Bike Path:
New playground equipment, restrooms, and an artistic fence will be added to Sand Dune Park as part of a several million dollar update approved by the City Council at a recent meeting, but it will not contain a concrete bike path based on community input. “Don’t be the council that paved paradise,” one community member said.
MB WEEKLY – A DIFFERENT VIEW:
Feel free to send your photo to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Larry Zimbalist (Chair of Measure Repair Local Schools)
As a long-time Manhattan Beach resident and citizens oversight committee member for previous bond measures, I urge you to support Measure RLS – Repair Local Schools. Measure RLS authorizes $200 million in bonds for repairs to our aging school facilities. It replaces maturing bonds it doesn’t raise taxes. Why Measure RLS deserves your vote: MBUSD has a track record of stewardship of financial resources. A review of Transparent California data shows key positions such as Principal are paid at or below similar school districts such as Palos Verdes, El Segundo, San Marino. When enrollment dropped by 10% post-COVID (2020-2023), the district reduced staffing by 10% overall and teachers by 17%. Projects from previous bonds including C & EE were delivered on time and under budget. Data from neighborhoodscout.com shows Manhattan Beach property value appreciation of 119.9% from 2014-2024 compared with Redondo Beach at 66.2% over the same period. Redondo has excellent schools; Manhattan Beach ratings are a notch higher. Measure RLS qualifies for $57 million in matching funds from Prop 2, a statewide facilities bond. Therefore $257 million could be invested in our schools. These matching funds won’t last if we delay. Measure RLS is a good deal for our schools and community – please vote Yes.
Agree? Disagree? Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
MB WEEKLY – MEET:
Meet Miranda (Manhattan Beach)
YES OR NO QUESTIONS
- Would you betray a friend for a million dollars? SADLY, I HAVE DONE IT FOR FREE
- Would you sacrifice a loved one to save a dozen strangers? TOO HARD
- If given the opportunity, would you live your entire life over? YES
- Do you believe in an afterlife? YES
- If you could know what other people really thought of you, would you want to know? YES
Welcome To Hook & Plow
In Downtown Manhattan Beach:
Introducing The Incredible Woof Menu!
At Hook & Plow, your four-legged friends deserve the best, too! Our brand-new Woof Menu is designed with the finest ingredients for your dog because nothing but the best will do for your loyal companion. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely day by the beach or grabbing a bite after a long walk, Hook & Plow has your pup covered!
Here’s a sneak peek at the Woof Menu that’s sure to make tails wag:
Grass-Fed Burger Patty – $10
Treat your pup to a tender, juicy burger patty made from grass-fed beef, ensuring premium quality with every bite.
Jidori Chicken Breast – $13
Known for its exceptional flavor and purity, the Jidori chicken breast is a nutritious and delicious option for your dog.
Prime Flatiron Steak – $15
For the ultimate indulgence, our prime flatiron steak will surely be a mouthwatering favorite for your furry friend.
Skuna Bay Salmon – $14
Packed with Omega-3s, this wild-caught salmon will have your dog coming back for more with its rich flavor and healthy benefits.
Yummy Bacon – $6
The perfect crispy snack to top off a satisfying meal because every dog deserves a little bacon love!
Plus, every order comes with a complimentary belly rub –because we believe in pampering your pup from start to finish.
So next time you’re in downtown Manhattan Beach, bring your pup to Hook & Plow for a culinary experience that you and your furry best friend will enjoy. After all, it’s not just a meal—it’s a treat for your whole family, fur babies!
Hook & Plow – Where the food is fresh, and the tails are wagging!
www.TheHookAndPlow.com
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Macaroons in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to send your photo to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
September 12, 2024 – September 18, 2024
Manhattan Beach Car Theft: $1M Cash in Box
- 847 service requests
- 15 Arrests
- 16 traffic accidents
- 49 crimes reported
Notable Events:
** On 09/12/24, officers responded to the 1400 block of 23rd St. regarding a vandalism that just occurred. Upon arrival, officers learned it was an attempted residential burglary. The unknown suspect(s) climbed onto the residence’s second story balcony and broke the window to gain entry into the primary bedroom. The suspect(s) fled the area when the resident screamed for help. Officers arrived on scene and checked the area but did not locate the suspect(s).
** Between 09/12/24 and 09/13/24, a residential burglary occurred in the 1600 block of 3rd Street. The victim arrived home and discovered a rear door and kitchen window open. The investigation revealed the suspect(s) pried the kitchen window open, entered the residence, stole jewelry, and exited through a rear door.
** On 09/13/24, officers responded to the 1700 block of Laurel Avenue (American Martyrs School) regarding a vehicle burglary. The victim parked their vehicle along the curb in front of the gym off 15th Street. The victim went into the gym with their child and when they returned back to their vehicle discovered the rear passenger side window was shattered. The victim stated that a cardboard box containing approximately $1 million dollars was stolen. Officers and the victim discovered a device appearing to be a GPS affixed to the vehicle.
** On 09/14/24, officers conducted a traffic stop in the area of Manhattan Beach Boulevard and Aviation Boulevard for vehicle code violations. The vehicle’s registration was expired and the driver was driving on a suspended license. During the officer’s investigation, the suspect admitted he had a firearm concealed in the vehicle. An unserialized firearm was recovered and the driver was arrested.
Did You Know That 60% Of MB Weekly Readers Are Under 55 Years Of Age?
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Introducing the Inaugural Manhattan Beach Food & Wine:
Southern California’s Newest World-Class Culinary Festival Coming in October 2024 Featuring All-Star Lineup of 50 of the Best Chefs in North America
The culinary world is about to be abuzz with excitement as Event Founder Shelby Russell and Event Host Neal Fraser introduce Southern California’s newest and most notable world-class culinary festival, the Inaugural Manhattan Beach Food & Wine featuring an all-star lineup of 50 Best Chefs held at Manhattan Village.
www.ManhattanBeachFoodAndWine.com
MB WEEKLY – CARTOON:
Pumpkin Spice in Manhattan Beach.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Terry Watson (Manhattan Beach)
Even as an adult, I find it hard to stay away from my cell phone. Yes, it is a great device, serving many useless purposes. However, it is way too easy to get sucked into the social media apps, texting, email, and web surfing. I am always surprised when I put the thing down that, holy crap, I just lost 1 or 2 hours of my life! Kids don’t need cell phones in schools. Helicopter parents must learn that they don’t need to monitor or be in touch with their child 100% of the time. As kids, we got along just fine before cell phones were invented, and so did our parents. Personally, I think the kids should have to check their phones when they arrive at school, and they should not have any access to them until they leave at the end of the school day. They will probably learn more, including better real-life social skills.
Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
How Well Do You Know Manhattan Beach?
Q1: How Far From Downtown Los Angeles?
A. 40 miles \ B. 19 miles \ C. 2 miles
Q2: How far is the Los Angeles International Airport?
A. 10 miles \ B. 12 miles \ C. 3 miles
Q3: How many square miles is Manhattan Beach?
A. 5.2 square miles \ B. 3.88 square miles \ C. 26.48 square miles
ANSWERS:
Q1: Location: 19 miles southwest of downtown Los Angeles on the southerly end of Santa Monica Bay.
Q2: Airport: 3 miles south of Los Angeles International Airport
Q3: City Area: 3.88 square miles
MB WEEKLY – MEET:
Meet Mr. Tibs from Manhattan Beach. Feel free to send your photo to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
1. ** Americans are more impatient than ever—and it’s affecting everything from our waistlines to our relationships. —- Tawny K., Manhattan Beach
2. ** Everyone should see the movie “Am I Racist” by Matt Walsh. It entirely reveals the D.E.I. con job and shows how race hustlers set up a massive money scam. —- Arlene H., Manhattan Beach (former South Bay elementary teacher)
3. ** Some of the stuff in your free Bulletin Board is weird; some of it’s funny, some of it’s smart and provocative, some useful, and some stupid, and I find it all very addictive. —- Carla H., Manhattan Beach
4. ** The Shake Shack in El Segundo is a poorly run fast food restaurant with a staff that looks like they were rejected from McDonalds. Very disappointing! —- Selma A., Manhattan Beach
5. ** Good News! The iPhone 16 launches on September 20, and the Apple Store at Del Amo Mall opens. —- Heidi R., Hermosa Beach
6. ** Manhattan Ave at 26th and 27th streets and the Bruce’s Beach parking lot will be CLOSED for extended periods if this Project goes forward. This is a HUGE project that few people know about. Please inform yourself: https://www.manhattanbeach.gov/ —- James U., Manhattan Beach
7. ** Find YOUR Why? —- www.MichaelLevineConsulting.com
8. ** Wow, a crotch-grabbing, serial adulterer would-be Mussolini etc., etc., running for president. How lucky are we? “In your gut, you know he’s a nut” —- Moe T., Manhattan Beach
9. ** The fourth-highest-grossing movie at the box office over the weekend was a mockumentary starring Matt Walsh of The Daily Wire called Am I Racist? Think Borat, but for DEI, with Walsh pretending to be an anti-racism “expert” and then trying to get white people to confess their terrible racism. Moviegoers seem to have enjoyed it—on Rotten Tomatoes, it has an audience score of 99 percent, which sounds quite good. —- Dabney T., Manhattan Beach
10. ** Would the boy you were be proud of the man you are? —- Don M., Manhattan Beach
11. ** Hi, single neighbors! What’s everyone’s doing? —- Tracy R., Hermosa Beach
12. ** I love Turmeric. —- Grace M., Manhattan Beach
13. ** Blast From The Past: Remember That ‘Joe’ Guy? Whatever Happened To Him Anyway? —- Hillary D., Manhattan Beach
14. ** A flier arriving in mailboxes throughout Los Angeles County doesn’t mention the ballot measure would increase the homeless sales tax to half a cent to help fund services and housing. More! More! More! More! Despite no progress, they want MORE. —- Caitlin C., Manhattan Beach
15. ** FBI says we may never know the motivation of the would-be Trump assassin who was a Biden-Harris supporter and donated to Democrats 20 times. —- Russ J., Manhattan Beach
16. ** South Bay’s Best Dog Walker – Award-winning. Best Personal care. Five years experience. Call Silvia —- 310-714-9877 or AlohaMyDogs@gmail.com
17. ** In the absence of funding to build a pool, public officials can either not make it or adopt the centuries-old approach of creating a bond to benefit all residents and offer formal calls for proposals. Who said the above? I think you should be a little more diligent. —- Stewart Fournier, Manhattan Beach
18. ** Independent Council on Women’s Sports (ICONS) created a media guide promoting the use of biologically accurate language in Olympic reporting. GlobeNewswire, a press release distributor in 158 countries, rejected it for “inflammatory content” – “We do not accept text [referring] to transgender women as men or male.” Let that sink in. —- Alison S., Manhattan Beach
19. ** Biden promises next Trump assassin will be a woman of color —- Gabi J., Manhattan Beach
20. ** My name is Joah Lee. I am a 3rd year student at UCLA, double majoring in Human biology and society and Economics. I have been tutoring for 5+ years. I have experience tutoring elementary students up to 1st-year college students (and love it). I charge a baseline of $45/hr. Please message me regarding AP classes and SAT/ACT prep rates. As for my qualifications, I scored in the 99%+ percentile on the SAT, ACT, and PSAT. Feel free to contact me if you are interested and have any questions. —- joahlee@g.ucla.edu
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