MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Mike Michalski
(MB Chamber of Commerce 2023 Realtor of the Year)
As a longtime local realtor who also follows what’s going on at City Hall, I was disappointed in former mayor Mark Burton’s recent commentary regarding his opposition to the upcoming vote on a new stormwater fee for parcel owners in Manhattan Beach.
Earlier this year, Mark lauded our current City Council and said he was so impressed with them that we should just do away with term limits, presumably so our current Council could serve as long as they wanted in perpetuity. Now, in a bout of apparent political amnesia, he accuses that same Council of launching a “sham” election on the stormwater parcel fee (it’s not a sham, Proposition 218 authorizes just such a vote) and “deliberately misleading” the residents about how much money we currently get from the County for our stormwater system (wrong again, Mark, that money is for new projects while the parcel fee is for operating and maintaining our existing stormwater infrastructure).
Mark says the proposed fee hike is an “outrageous increase” in our stormwater fees yet, if approved by a majority of the parcel owners in our city, the rate would go from an annual fee of $19.12 per residential parcel – a fee that hasn’t been increased since its inception in 1996 – to an average annual fee of $129 per parcel. That’s hardly going to break the bank, unlike the truly excessive $1,095 per year school parcel tax that Mark championed last year and which was rejected by almost 70% of the voters.
The downside of failing to approve the new fee is the very real possibility, as outlined by city staff, that the shortfall in the funds needed to maintain our stormwater system may end up coming out of other high priority items in our City’s General Fund, including public safety. And as a realtor, I can tell you that as important as school funding is to the community and to property values (which is why I favor extending the existing $225 school parcel tax that expires next June), fully funding our police and fire services is even more important.
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www.RealEstateEdge.com
35th Manhattan Beach Holiday Fireworks Festival Honors Founder:
The Manhattan Beach Holiday Fireworks Festival will begin with a blaze on December 10. The single flare will honor the guy who started Manhattan Beach’s beloved holiday fireworks extravaganza, Pete Moffett, who died earlier this year, launched the Manhattan Beach Holiday Fireworks Festival at the city’s pier more than three decades ago. Despite a regional water quality watchdog’s new fireworks show regulations over water, son Tom Moffett said the 35th annual event will be just as its founder intended. “The heart of this show is to take it back to Pete Moffett’s vision,” he stated. “This show honors him.” After his father died in May, Moffett Jr. took charge.
MB Weekly Readers Reveal Top Tips For Nursing A Hangover:
In a recent survey conducted by MB Weekly, readers revealed their top secrets for nursing a hangover. Topping the list is the age-old advice of staying hydrated, with an overwhelming number advocating for fluids to counter the aftermath of a night out. Following closely is the recommendation to consume carbohydrates, providing the body with essential energy to recover. Surprisingly, readers also emphasized avoiding darker-colored alcoholic beverages, suggesting a potential link between the color of drinks and the severity of hangovers. As the holiday season approaches, these tips are a handy guide for those planning festive celebrations.
MB WEEKLY – COLUMNIST:
by Rita Crabtree-Kampe
(Community Activist)
Mo-vember moves the dial… on changing the face of men’s health! Since 2009, the South Bay Mo Bros have donned their MO-staches and raised over $1 million through the generous help of donors, sponsors and participants each November (aka Movember). These funds have supported groundbreaking projects focusing on prostate and testicular cancers and mental health, to benefit men of all ages live longer, healthier and happier lives. Their efforts to raise awareness and funds has been spearheaded by Sandy Goodman, a long time Manhattan Beach resident and Captain of the South Bay MO Bros, who lost his father-in-law to prostate cancer. After years of parties and golf tournaments, this year’s focus was on their first annual Cornhole Tournament. On a sunny yet windy Sunday, November 19, 2023, 128 participants sported personal techniques (and even some personal bean bags) to race to 21 points. There were lots of Mo-staches and even some fun costumes adding to the spirit of the day! The ultimate goal (aside from winning!), is to raise awareness so if you haven’t been for your medical check up lately, don’t put it off! Make your appointment today! Find out more about MO-vember and their mission here:
https://us.movember.com/about/cause
Set The Table:
Personal Los Angeles Chef Services Based In Manhattan Beach Serving The South Bay
- PRIVATE DINING: Dinner Parties, Special Occasions, Events, Vacations. Family Style and/or Sit-Down Plated Options
- MEAL PREPARATION: Weekly In-Home and Delivery Options. Personalized Menu for any Dietary Needs
- COOKING LESSONS: Cooking and Grocery Shopping Smart Lessons. One-on-One/Couples/Group (Zoom or In-Person Options)
www.SetTheTableLA.com
‘Mindful’ Comprehensive Women’s Health Facility Debuts In Manhattan Beach:
The “Mindful Wellness, Manhattan Beach Women’s Health Center and EmpowerHER Health” was inaugurated by City Council and Chamber of Commerce representatives. Councilmember Joe Franklin and Manhattan Beach Chamber of Commerce President David Archer attended the Thursday, November 16, grand opening, where they toured the facility, met the doctors and staff, and learned about the center’s programs, which aim to improve women’s health and support them throughout life.
www.MBWomensCenter.com
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Organizers and firefighters launched the 31st Beach Cities Toy Drive at the Manhattan Beach fire station. Fire departments in Hermosa and Manhattan Beach accept unwrapped toys.
MB WEEKLY – RESTAURANT REVIEW:
by Darby Winston
The Arthur J
I had an exceptional dining experience at Arthur J in downtown Manhattan Beach on Monday night before Thanksgiving. The warm and inviting atmosphere set the perfect tone for a pre-holiday celebration. Our waiter, Jay, went above and beyond, providing extraordinary service with a genuine smile. His knowledge of the menu and thoughtful recommendations enhanced our evening. The culinary highlights were the excellent wedge salad, crisp and refreshing, and the indulgent beef stroganoff, a savory delight. Each dish showcased the restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and skillful preparation. To cap off the meal, the banana split dessert was a delightful symphony of flavors, a sweet conclusion to an already impressive dinner. Arthur J delivered a delectable dining experience and made the evening memorable with impeccable service. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone seeking a top-notch culinary adventure in the heart of Manhattan Beach. (Very busy even on a Monday night)
Food: A- • Service: A+ • Atmosphere: A
www.TheArthurJ.com
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Clay Tobias (Manhattan Beach)
The possibility that it will help you produce higher-quality work is the most convincing argument in favor of taking a “brain break.” A 2022 systematic review published in the journal Plops ONE discovered that even brief breaks lasting 10 minutes or fewer improved vigor (i.e., the willingness to persevere when work became challenging) and decreased mental tiredness.
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Lisa’s Naturals:
Lisa’s Naturals carries soaps, lip balms, bath salts, body & face scrubs, aromatherapy roller bottles, pillow sprays and more created with all natural ingredients, plant-based fragrances and essential oils. Candle creations are made with wood wicks (no toxic fumes). Lisa’s Naturals specializes in gift bags and takes custom soap orders for events such as weddings for party favors, client appreciation gifts, and holidays.
Etsy.com/Shop/LisasNaturals
MB WEEKLY:
The Faces of Manhattan Beach
Meet Blinky
Working In Manhattan Beach Since April 2023
YES OR NO QUESTIONS:
Do you usually stay friends with your ex?
–SEVERAL TIMES UNTIL THEY WANT TO HAVE SEX AGAIN.
Have you ever written someone a love poem?
–NAH, NOT VERY GOOD AT THAT.
Have you fallen in love at first sight?
–YEP, MORE THAN ONCE, BABY.
Have you ever been put behind bars?
–NO.
Have you ever run away from your house?
–I DID WHEN I WAS 14 FOR ABOUT FOUR HOURS.
Have you smoked at least one cigarette in the last year?
–OF COURSE, I SMOKE 2 PACKS A DAY.
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Lewis Schwartz (Redondo Beach)
This is to set the record straight on Pastor John Hagee, Minister of the Cornerstone Church in San Antonio, TX and his rightful place as a speaker for “Allies of Israel” at the recent “Rally for Israel” in Washington D.C. attended by nearly 300,000 people. I first met Pastor Hagee 20 years while living in San Antonio TX. Pastor Hagee was a frequent guest speaker at Saturday morning services at the local Synagogue Rodfay Shalom (Pursuer of Peace). Rabbi Scheinberg and Pastor Hagee organized numerous events for Christians and Jews in San Antonio. In December 2003, my wife Ellen and I attended, for the first time, the annual “Honor Israel Night” at the Cornerstone Church. Tens of millions of dollars were raised for charities in Israel. Many artisans from Israel came to sell their products at the Event. As the son of two Holocaust survivors, I was very moved by the harmony and brotherhood I witnessed. Even though Ellen and I left San Antonio 7 years later to join our adult children in L.A., we continue to feel a strong bond with Pastor Hagee, the Cornerstone Church and the Christians United For Israel Organization (CUFI). It was with great dismay to read in social media that organizations like the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) declared Pastor Hagee to be “unfit” to speak at the “Rally for Israel” due the false accusation that Pastor Hagee is guilty of anti-Semitism. This is blatantly false. The world needs more people like Pastor Hagee and Organizations like CUFI to assist Israel in lighting the darkness in this world.
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MB WEEKLY – LENS:
A note left at the Manhattan Beach Pier on Thanksgiving. Feel free to send in your photo to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Kristen H. (Manhattan Beach)
Hi neighbors! Keep an eye out for this person. She stole my little owl statue, which is ridiculous (and hilarious because of why), but then she stole packages and had a male standing outside with other packages before they ran off. Crazy for sure because she cuddled the owl and kissed it while stealing it (happy it’s loved, lol). Just sharing to watch out for packages and to be aware of this person.
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MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Sara Garcia (El Segundo)
Law enforcement officials recently announced that more uniformed and undercover police will patrol important shopping districts during the holidays to combat smash-and-grab offenses. Sean Duryee, California Highway Patrol commissioner, said merchants and customers can expect more high-visibility and undercover patrols to prevent retail theft during the holidays. “Law enforcement should make Californians feel safe.” A gentle question: What the Hell took them soooooooo long?
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MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Memories in Manhattan Beach. Feel free to send in your photos to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
MB WEEKLY – COMMENTARY:
by Syndey B. (Manhattan Beach)
One of the most important lessons of American history is that outlawing liquor sales and consumption (“the noble experiment”) failed. While murder rates rose to record highs, bootleggers and the mob profited from stagnant drinking. Al Capone became renowned and wealthy thanks to the policy. Recent news that the Biden administration’s FDA wants to ban menthol cigarettes reminded me of this. Approximately 37% of cigarette sales are menthol. That need will remain, but it will be underground, increasing consumer danger. Prohibition will be tried again with smokers 90 years after its failure. Ironically, many liberals who fought for marijuana and other soft drug legalization for three decades now want to abolish smoking. More utopian nonsense?
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MB WEEKLY – MEET:
Meet Wally
From Hermosa Beach
THE TRUTH
–Vegan Since Age 10.
–Never Been Horseback Riding.
–In AA Since Age 18.
–Swims Daily.
–Studies Churchill.
–Hasn’t Smoked Cigarettes For Four Years.
–Hates Ice Cream.
–Loves Peaches.
–Hates Tuna.
Cressida Capital:
Providing Financing Solutions For All Types Of Real Estate
Drawing on a broad range of expertise in the areas of real estate investment capital, Cressida Capital delivers customized debt solutions for even the most complex client needs.
www.CressidaCapital.com
MB WEEKLY – CARTOON:
“Bobbing for Apples Pies in Manhattan Beach.”
MB WEEKLY – READER QUESTION:
IS THIS THE AVERAGE SAD FACE OF A YOUNG PERSON DAY?
Please share your comment with thousands and thousands of your neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities.
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1. ** A small but outspoken group of people are speaking out about serious sexual issues that persisted after stopping selective serotonin reuptake medications, the most common antidepressants. They say the medications have destroyed their sex and love relationships. —- Dr. Harrell B., Manhattan Beach
2. ** Neighbor’s smoking weed and parking in my driveway. Ick! —- Victoria Z, Manhattan Beach
3. ** I’m not too fond of the Detroit Lions. —- Frank B., Manhattan Beach
4. ** Hi, I am looking for a house or apartment to clean on Saturday mornings. Please contact me at (310) 625-6808. thnx in advance. —- Martha H., Manhattan Beach
5. ** Lido Bakery in Manhattan Beach has the best wedding cakes in the world! —- Oliva P., Manhattan Beach
6. ** It is crucial to understand what our enemies actually believe. —- Samuel B., Manhattan Beach
7. ** My husband and I are retired and are both managing separate cancer diagnoses. This makes our finances hard to predict in the event one of us needs expensive medication. We did a good job saving for retirement and live comfortably. —- Mr. and Mrs. Flint, Manhattan Beach
8. ** Nobody invented “capitalism.” It’s what free people do naturally – exchange goods and services for their own benefit. —- Gloria B., Manhattan Beach
9. ** 817,669 Californians left in 2022. Which state did they move to? Texas was No. 1 spot, then Arizona, Florida, Washington and Nevada. —- Editor’s Note
10. ** A woman died in a single-car crash in a residential area of North Redondo Beach on Sunday morning, Nov. 12, and a man who was a passenger in the car was arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, authorities said. Redondo Beach police were called to the intersection of Lilienthal and Alvord lanes just past 9:35 a.m. and found a vehicle that had crashed, Lt. Mark Valdivia said. —- Editor’s Note
11. ** The Bible never commands us to love our parents, but it does command us to honor them. —- Angie S., Manhattan Beach
12. ** If any of my friends support Hamas, unfriend me immediately! —- Mark S., Manhattan Beach
13. ** There is no place like this country. And there is no second America to run to if this one fails. So let’s get up. Get up and fight for our future. This is the fight of – and for – our lives. —- David H., Manhattan Beach
14. ** How to say this delicately? Disneyland’s … some parents let their kids poop on the promenade by pulling down their pants. —- Ron J., Manhattan Beach
15. ** There’s nothing in the world like downtown Manhattan Beach! —- Fern B., Manhattan Beach
16. ** What the heck? Massive police presence near Top Golf. Closed: El Segundo Blvd. Riot police (20+) right of T.G. and left of the mall. Helicopter flying! Crime is out of control. —- Jeffrey G., El Segundo
17. ** A Torrance man in the news – Torrance man charged with running ‘high-end brothel network’ – https://www.dailybreeze.com/2023/11/08/doj-announces-arrests-in-high-end-brothel-network-used-by-elected-officials-military-officers-and-others/ —- Editor’s Note
18. ** If credibility is the lifeblood of journalism, the mainstream media is dead. It wasn’t killed by competition from the Internet. It committed suicide. We know the approximate date of its demise. 2016. We know the cause. The abandonment of objectivity. —- Dr. Lance H., Manhattan Beach
19. ** I trust teenagers to ride safely on e-bikes in downtown Manhattan Beach, a little like I trust Charles Manson to babysit my grandkids. —- Nancy P., Manhattan Beach
20. ** Never has a society tolerated overt expressions of antisemitism and remained a democratic society. —- Charles G., Manhattan Beach
21. ** I’m gay and 20. I started a new job thinking I would replace an aging coworker due to retire “in a year.” She often corrects me when I mention her retirement, stating she’ll cut back a day or two a week. She was supposed to leave in a month when I got recruited. Her political conservatism, strong religion, and moodiness make her uncomfortable to be around. —- Andy P., Manhattan Beach
22. ** A 25-year-old San Diego man was sentenced to 11 years in state prison last week for beating to death a man in Hermosa Beach two years ago. Stop and think about that for a minute. 11 years for killing a man. That is what our society currently says a life is worth. No wonder we are so sick and decayed. —- Ronald E., Manhattan Beach
23. ** Beware of strange conduct. A young man with a backpack jumps in front of cars, swinging his arms and talking to himself loudly, possibly homeless. —- Howell R., Manhattan Beach
24. ** Why is our Police Chief not supportive of the Broken Windows theory of policing? —- Jane R., Manhattan Beach
25. ** Reach for your dreams, work hard, and you will achieve them. I love Manhattan Beach! —- Wayne P., Manhattan Beach
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