SOUTH BAY VOTES “YES” TO TOUGHER CRIME LAWS – PROP 36 TRIUMPHS, HOCHMAN OUSTS GASCÓN:
In a decisive victory for law-and-order advocates, South Bay voters helped pass Prop 36, California’s latest tough-on-crime amendment, overturning Prop 47 from 2014. The measure, which received overwhelming support, reclassifies thefts under $950 and drug offenses as felonies, reversing the softer stance of Prop 47 that reduced these crimes to misdemeanors. This shift marks a public pushback against lenient crime policies in Los Angeles. The region also saw a significant political upset, as incumbent district attorney George Gascón, one of the original architects of Prop 47, lost his seat to Nathan Hochman (pictured), a candidate committed to tougher prosecution and community safety. “Thank God, the days of insanity are beginning to end!” Lawrence T., a longtime Manhattan Beach homeowner.
MB WEEKLY – READER POLL:
WTF? 13% of South Bay Residents Pay for Five or More Streaming Services
In a recent MB Weekly poll that left many readers scratching their heads, 13% of respondents reported paying for five or more streaming services in their households. With many options like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime, streaming seems to have become the entertainment equivalent of an all-you-can-eat buffet – but at what cost? The poll highlights a shifting trend among South Bay residents, reflecting the increasing fragmentation of digital entertainment. While some view this streaming overload as a necessity to keep up with the latest must-watch shows, others are shocked by the costs piling up each month. With an average subscription cost of around $10-20 per month per service, those with multiple subscriptions could be forking over $100 or more just to stay “in the know.”
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MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Nathalie Rosen
Q: WHERE WERE YOU BORN?
A: I was born in New Haven, CT, where my father was a professor at Yale. We lived on campus until I was 5. You could say I had a very early Ivy League education!
Q: HOW AND WHEN DID YOU FIND YOUR WAY TO MANHATTAN BEACH?
A: My husband and I moved our family here in 2021 from Windsor Village in Los Angeles. After 20 years of hearing our friends and business partners, the Sabas, rave about Manhattan Beach, we figured it was time to see if it lived up to the hype. Spoiler alert: it does! Plus, after the pandemic, we wanted our kids to experience the joy of walking to school and living close to their friends, which they couldn’t do before.
Q: WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO GET ACTIVE IN THE SCHOOLS IN TOWN?
A: I’ve always supported the schools my kids attend, and John F. Kennedy’s words, “[o]ne person can make a difference, and everyone should try,” have always inspired me. After moving here, I was surprised to learn how inadequate state funding is for our schools. That’s why I’m so passionate about getting involved – helping to make things better not just for my own kids, but for all students in the district. Efforts like Measure RLS are especially important because they allow us to improve our school facilities and provide safe, modern learning environments, all without raising taxes. I am so grateful to live in a community that collectively values education and makes smart investments to ensure our bright future.
Q: IN YOUR OPINION, WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE FACING THE MANHATTAN BEACH SCHOOLS IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS?
A: Being one of the least funded school districts in the state will continue to cause funding problems for us. Thankfully, we have MBEF, which granted $7.4 million to our district last year towards education. I don’t think people realize how much our schools rely on the Ed Foundation. The state funding formula isn’t going to change. The expectation for communities to raise private dollars locally is now embedded in the system. So, the biggest challenge will be keeping the community as supportive and generous toward the schools as it has been for the past 40 years. But knowing how caring and involved this community is, I have no doubts we’ll rise to the occasion!
Q: WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE MOVIE OF ALL TIME?
A: “Good Will Hunting.” And yes, I still have the biggest crush on Matt Damon – unapologetically.
Q: WHAT’S YOUR ASTROLOGY SIGN?
A: I’m a Virgo – detail-oriented and always ready with a plan (or two).
Q: WHO WOULD YOU RATHER HAVE DINNER WITH, GEORGE CLOONEY OR ELON MUSK?
A: Tough choice! Dinner with Clooney would be a delightful evening, no doubt. But ever since Elon Musk took on his Lex Luthor persona, I feel like I’d have to sit him down and talk him into using his billions for good … or at least more electric cars.
www.MBEF.org/about/board/boardbios
Joey Restaurants:
A globally inspired take on two JOEY classics: Steak & Sushi. Tataki-style steak with zesty ponzu sauce, served alongside your choice of Seared Salmon Sushi or the Tuna + Avocado Crunch Roll.
www.JoeyRestaurants.com
Manhattan Beach Officers Bring Clean Water And Hope To Africa:
In a heartwarming mission of goodwill, two Manhattan Beach police officers, Joe Udeoji and his colleague Steve Kitsios, are embarking on a transformative trip to Africa. Joe, a native of Nsude, Nigeria, and his friend will deliver essential food supplies and tackle a more significant challenge – clean water access. Their journey will provide 20 kg of rice to 100 villagers and install a vital water well for the community. Backed by The Peoples Naija Foundation, their initiative, the Nsude Water Project, aims to raise $25,000 to supply clean drinking water to over 20,000 residents across ten villages. With a plan to drill boreholes and create sustainable water infrastructure, the officers’ efforts promise to have a lasting impact. Supporters can contribute to this life-changing cause by visiting peoplesnaija.org to help transform lives in Nsude. Every donation will go directly to this critical project.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
A happy team member from Sloopy’s.
Downtown Manhattan Beach Farmers Market Temporarily Relocates To Civic Center:
In response to the demolition activities of Parking Lot 3, the Manhattan Beach City Council has approved a temporary relocation of the Downtown Manhattan Beach Farmers Market. “Due to the demolition of Parking Lot 3, beginning Tuesday, 10/29 the Farmers Market will temporarily relocate to Civic Center Parking Lot and Plaza, between the Police/Fire Facility and City Hall. This location is just north of the current market location on 13th Street, and has a beautiful, shaded seating area! All of the current vendors will be coming with us, but their size and setups may have changed, so take your time and meander around – maybe you’ll even find something new! The first day may have a few bumps, but we thank you for patience during this slight transition.” Safety and accessibility remain top priorities during the transition. For updates and further details, visit the Manhattan Beach Farmers Market website and follow @CityMB and @MBFarmersMarket on social media.
Downtown Manhattan Beach. Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
Rebound In Academic Excellence – MBUSD Scores Climb In Latest State Tests:
According to new state assessment results, Manhattan Beach Unified School District (MBUSD) students are showing signs of academic recovery after pandemic-era learning losses. The California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) results reveal a 1.64% rise in English Language Arts (ELA) scores and a 2.08% boost in math scores compared to last year. This positive shift means 81.16% of MBUSD students now meet or exceed ELA standards, with 75.07% doing the same in math. Results Summary: ELA growth overall, and especially in Grades 7 and 11; Math growth overall, and especially in Grades 5, 6, and 8; ELA and Math Grades 3-5 Cohort Performance; Math Grades 6-8 Cohort Performance; Science Grade 5 Performance.
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Kate Andersen (Clean Books Plus)
YES OR NO QUESTIONS
- Do you believe in unconditional love? -YES
- Have you had a bad relationship in the past? -YES
- Have you ever broken up with someone over a text message? -NO
- Have you ever dated someone your family did not like? -YES
- Have you ever forgotten a partner’s birthday? -NO
- Would you ever tell a white lie to your partner? -NO
- Do you believe in giving each other space in a relationship? -YES
- Do you believe in marriage?- YES
- Are you a morning person? -YES
www.CleanBooksPlus.com
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Dr. Dale C. (Manhattan Beach)
I love and appreciate the MB Police Department, but my response to Sergeant Andy Abreu’s MB Weekly column is confusing and frustrating. His piece, which attempts to justify Manhattan Beach police officers working only three days a week, reads more like a wellness blog promoting work-life balance than a serious discussion about public safety. Yes, balance is essential – but last I checked, the primary mission of the Police Department is to protect and serve the residents of Manhattan Beach, a community for which officers are well compensated. In an age when brazen crime is on the rise, the priority should be the safety of the citizens, not officers’ extra downtime or quality family dinners. As a taxpayer, I find it troubling that wellness rhetoric seems to be taking precedence over the fundamental duty to keep our streets secure. Public safety is a full-time commitment, not a part-time pursuit focusing on wellness perks.
Agree? Disagree? Please share your comment: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net (Maximum 100 words)
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MB WEEKLY – READER COMMENT:
“MB Weekly has again demonstrated its commitment to fearless independence with a breathtaking exposé on Manhattan Beach’s obscene staff salaries. This story has shed light on a deeply troubling issue, uncovering the staggering compensation packages that betray the trust of hardworking taxpayers. The City should be ashamed of allowing such blatant misuse of public funds to go unchecked. MB Weekly’s extraordinary work exposes these fiscal issues, reminding us of journalism’s critical role in safeguarding our communities. Your dedication to truth-telling and transparency is inspiring and necessary in these times. I have endless appreciation for MB Weekly and your tenacity in highlighting issues that matter most. You are a true beacon of integrity in the media landscape, and your impact resonates far beyond the digital page and certainly lives up to your brilliant slogan – ‘once a week but never weakly.’” —- Sue B., Manhattan Beach
Urban Plates Canned Food Drive:
Give Food – Get A Gift Card
Donate one or more cans of canned food between 11/1/24 – 11/22/24 and receive a $5 Urban Plates gift card (limit of one gift card per Guest). In partnership with LA Food Bank, all collected canned goods will be donated to needy families throughout the South Bay.
www.UrbanPlates.com
Stepping Up For Friendship – Skechers Pier To Pier Walk Powers Special Needs Programs:
Skechers CEO Michael Greenberg and Rabbi Yossi Mintz kicked off the 16th Annual Skechers Pier to Pier Friendship Walk with a powerful message of inclusion and community support on Sunday. Joined by legendary boxer Sugar Ray Leonard and fitness guru Brooke Burke, Greenberg welcomed a record-breaking 22,000 participants to the Manhattan Beach Pier. The event highlighted Jakob Dominguez, a pioneering Mira Costa High School’s inaugural Friendship Circle member in 2009. It opened with an inspiring rendition of the National Anthem by “America’s Got Talent” star Madison Taylor Baez. Since its inception, the walk has raised over $20 million, supporting programs that foster friendship and connection among special needs students. What began with 1,200 walkers and $220,000 has evolved into California’s most prominent special needs fundraiser, captivating supporters with celebrity appearances, live music, and a spirit of community unity that Greenberg reminded everyone remains at the event’s heart.
MB WEEKLY – HISTORY:
Manhattan Beach in the 1950s. Feel free to send your photo to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
Manhattan Beach Crime Summary
October 24 to October 30, 2024
- 804 SERVICE REQUESTS
- 23 ARRESTS
- 23 TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS
- 54 CRIMES REPORTED
Notable Events:
** On 10/24/24 at approximately 10:00 p.m., an officer observed a Toyota Prius unsafely towing a Dodge van. The officer conducted a traffic stop and discovered both drivers of the Prius and the van were unlicensed. The officer continued his investigation and found a loaded/concealed 9mm rifle in the van. Both of the drivers were also convicted felons and were subsequently arrested.
** On 10/25/24 at approximately 7:20 p.m. a residential burglary occurred in the 2600 block of Poinsettia Avenue. The homeowner was viewing their video surveillance and saw two suspects on their property. Officers responded to the scene and determined a burglary had occurred. While officers were at this address another homeowner from the 2600 block of Pine Avenue called to report two suspects were in their backyard. The suspects were last seen running south towards Marine Avenue. Officers checked the area and did not locate the suspects.
** On 10/26/24 at approximately 12:38 a.m. an officer conducted a traffic stop in the area of 45th Street and Highland Avenue for several vehicle code violations. The driver of the vehicle was on parole and during a search of the vehicle, drugs and a firearm were discovered. The driver was subsequently arrested.
** On 10/27/24 at approximately 12:28 a.m. a residential burglary occurred in the 700 block of 25th Street. The victims returned home and discovered the glass to the rear sliding door was shattered. The suspect(s) stole money and jewelry.
** On 10/29/24 at approximately 1:00 a.m., officers were dispatched to a burglary in progress at Bevmo. A security guard observed several suspects behind the loading dock near a vehicle. The suspects saw the security guard and drove away quickly. When officers arrived on scene they discovered the rear door to Mothers Market was open and several items from Mothers Market were on a pallet. The suspects were unsuccessful in loading the items into the vehicle. Officers found the vehicle abandoned a short distance away and it was a reported stolen vehicle. The suspects were not located.
WHO READS MB WEEKLY?
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Manhattan Beach Attorney Disbarred Over Misuse Of Funds To Feed Gambling Habit:
The State Bar of California announced yesterday that the California Supreme Court has concurred with its recommendations and ordered the disbarment of Sergio Valdovinos Ramirez, a Manhattan Beach attorney who misappropriated nearly $117,000 from his clients and used some of that money to feed his gambling habit.
SEE SOMETHING – SEND IN A PHOTO:
Do you see something that isn’t quite right in our beautiful City of Manhattan Beach or surrounding South Bay communities? Snap a photo and send it to MB Weekly! Our new section, “Consumer Reports,” is quickly becoming a favorite, helping neighbors address issues and fix things. From potholes to unsightly clutter, from e-bikes to filth in businesses, your report can make a difference in keeping our community beautiful. Send your photos and descriptions to MBWeekly@TimeWire.net. Let’s work together to make our community even better.
How Well Do You Know Manhattan Beach?
Q1: What is Manhattan Beach’s assessed valuation?
A. $240.29 billion \ B. $55.98 billion \ C. $17.6 billion
Q2: How many business licenses does the City of Manhattan Beach issue approximately each year?
A. 25,000 \ B. 125,000 \ C. 5,000
Q3: How many full-time employees are employed by the City of Manhattan Beach?
A. 306 \ B. 5,000 \ C. 89
ANSWERS:
Q1: Assessed Value: Manhattan Beach’s assessed valuation is $17.6 billion.
Q2: Businesses: The City of Manhattan Beach issues approximately 5,000 business licenses each year.
Q3: Employees: The City has 306 full-time employees.
1. ** Thank you, MB Weekly! —- Your Grateful Fluttering Malibu Dana
2. ** I swear to God, the pizza at Oath Pizza in El Segundo tastes like rubber. —- Rebecca G., El Segundo
3. ** Why did Steve Charelian mislead the City Council by informing them that issuing Pension Obligation Bonds would not add debt? Our City now pays $5.5 annually for the next 20 years. —- Mark B., Manhattan Beach
4. ** Tim Walz appears to be a first-class idiot. —- Angie S., Manhattan Beach
5. ** We just tented our house for termites with a Playa Del Rey firm. The owner recommended modest wood repairs before fumigation. None of the other two bids mentioned the significance of wood repairs before fumigation. Our firm is Priority Termite And Pest Services. Owner Dustin Weaver may be reached at 310-280-8587. After our experience, we suggest him. —- Blair B., El Segundo
6. ** Exer Urgent Care in Manhattan Beach is a disorganized disaster. The place is not clean, and the staff seems uncaring. I won’t be back. —- Charles B., Manhattan Beach
7. ** Who feeds the tree squirrels again? City. 29th and Blanche. I hate the mess and digging in our yard and plants. No need to feed them. —- Howard A., Manhattan Beach
8. ** Nina Tarnay is on the board of this progressive Children’s Book Organization. They donate books to schools. On their IG, they promote @muslimmommyblog, which supports the book you see at the end. I sure hope that doesn’t make it into our schools. Also, here’s the blog of the organization’s founder, PragmaticMom.com, promoted on their website. Scroll down to her resources. There is also a video from Al Jazeera. —- L.R., Manhattan Beach
9. ** On 10/24, a silver-haired man in his late 50s/early 60s driving a silver SUV near east Manhattan Beach with a scarred lip or jaw. Someone saw him assaulting a woman. —- Tony P., Manhattan Beach
10. ** There is a well-coordinated national effort between teachers, activist organizations, and administrators to indoctrinate American children against Israel. —- Rachel L., Manhattan Beach
11. ** Please do NOT hire Robert DiFiore, the handyman. His behavior made my daughter and I feel unsafe; he tried to get us to come to his house and take a shower. He would not leave when I fired him, and I had to call the police. He sent many threatening texts. —- Susan P., Torrance
12. ** The legacy press is deeply invested in a Harris victory. White House reporters insisted that Biden was sharp as a tack when they knew he wasn’t. Trump’s Madison Square Garden rally was compared by MSNBC and others to a 1939 pro-Nazi rally. And now, Biden didn’t really say what we all heard him say. —- Hank B., Manhattan Beach
13. ** An 80-year-old man whose beating at the Redondo Beach Elks Lodge was captured on video is suing the lodge and two of its former members. Joseph Lordeon of Redondo Beach, in a lawsuit filed last week in Los Angeles Superior Court, accused the lodge, former Exalted Ruler Nashana Steele, and her husband, Lamont Steele, of battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, premises liability, negligence, and elder abuse. —- Editor’s Note
14. ** Join the Rotary Club of Manhattan Beach and Kinecta FCU for the 5th Annual VetFest on Saturday, 11-9, from 12–5 pm at 1440 Rosecrans Ave. Celebrate Veterans, First Responders, and Active Military. Free for Veterans ($35 for spouses), $50 G.A. Enjoy BBQ, pizza, Joe’s Band, and Pine Mountain Logs. Tickets: rotaryvetfest.com —- Tim H., Manhattan Beach
15. ** Over the summer, UK police threatened people who dared to speculate about the background of a killer. Now, they’ve admitted that he possessed an al-Qaeda manual. —- Doug D., Manhattan Beach
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