MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Downtown Manhattan Beach Business Association Exec. Dir. Kelly Stroman at MB Weekly’s “Ask the Mayor” event.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Gerry Morton at MB Weekly’s “Ask the Mayor” event.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Manhattan Beach community activist Lee Phillips at MB Weekly’s “Ask the Mayor” event.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Former MB Chamber of Commerce Board President David Curry at MB Weekly’s “Ask the Mayor” event.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
P.S. I Love You Foundation Founder Patricia Jones at MB Weekly’s “Ask the Mayor” event.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
MB Weekly’s “Ask the Mayor” Event March 31, 2026 at Shade Hotel in Manhattan Beach: Top Row (Marvin Mack of Urban Plates, Umut Cicek of Bella Beach Kids, Bessum of Manhattan Village, Aaron Ganz of Ganz Media) Bottom Row (Former MB Mayor Wayne Powell and attendee, Downtown MB Business Association Exec. Dir. Kelly Stroman and MB Police Chief Rachel Johnson, South Bay Classical Academy Founder David Jackson and his wife)
MB WEEKLY – Q&A:
Karen Tokashiki
(President of Hometown Fair)
Q: THE HOMETOWN FAIR IS TWO DAYS OF PURE JOY FOR THE PUBLIC – AND PROBABLY TWO MONTHS OF MILD PANIC FOR THE ORGANIZERS. BE HONEST: WHAT IS THE MOMENT EACH YEAR WHEN YOU SECRETLY THINK, “UH-OH…THIS MIGHT NOT WORK”?
A: There’s always a point each year when we glance at the calendar and think, “Uh-oh…can we really pull this off?” As an all volunteer board juggling work, family, and a million moving parts, the Fair is a big lift. But the real turning point comes two or three weeks out, when everything finally clicks and we realize, “Okay – this is going to work.” By Sunday morning, the weekend usually settles into a smooth rhythm and we can finally exhale. And it’s all worth it. The Fair is the biggest fundraiser for our local schools and community groups. Proceeds from every food booth, game, and from the Wine and Beer Gardens directly support local nonprofits. Our goal never changes – create the best community event of the year while giving back to the town that makes it possible.
Q: EVERY GREAT FAIR HAS A LITTLE CHAOS. WHAT IS THE MOST MEMORABLE MISHAP IN HOMETOWN FAIR HISTORY – THE STORY THAT STILL MAKES ORGANIZERS LAUGH YEARS LATER?
A: Thankfully, we haven’t had a true “mishap” that rises to legend status! Over the years, the Fair has evolved to place an even stronger emphasis on safety and family-friendly fun; we’re constantly observing and improving to make sure everything runs smoothly. That said, one of our most consistent “chaos creators” has actually been pets. Despite our many gentle reminders, some community members are still determined to bring their pets along. We love our furry family members, but for everyone’s safety – both human and animal – pets aren’t allowed at the Fair. Let’s just say there have been a few close calls over the years that reinforced exactly why that rule is in place!
Q: MANHATTAN BEACH RESIDENTS ARE KNOWN FOR STRONG OPINIONS. WHAT’S THE FUNNIEST OR MOST SURPRISING COMPLAINT YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED ABOUT THE FAIR?
A: It turns out – it’s all about fish! One of the most common questions we hear each year is: “Are the fish tacos coming back this year?” Right alongside that is the mix of feedback about goldfish. Some guests nostalgically ask, “Where are the games with goldfish prizes?” while others strongly encourage us to ban them altogether. We’ve taken that feedback to heart and ultimately decided not to allow goldfish prizes at the Fair. While they may bring back fond memories for some, our priority is to ensure the well-being of all animals.
Q: IF THE HOMETOWN FAIR HAD A “SECRET VIP EXPERIENCE,” WHAT INSIDER TIP WOULD YOU GIVE LOCALS SO THEY COULD ENJOY THE EVENT LIKE A TRUE PRO?
A: Our “secret VIP experience,” would be about knowing how to enjoy the day like a local. First tip: take advantage of the bike valet or shuttle service. Not only does it make getting to and from the Fair much easier, but the bike valet supports local Mira Costa High School organizations that volunteer their time – so you’re giving back while you enjoy the event. Next, don’t miss the raffle on Dorsey Avenue. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, and every year features some incredible prizes – last year included everything from a golf cart to a weekend getaway at Terranea Resort.
Q: LOOKING AHEAD TEN YEARS, WHAT BOLD OR UNEXPECTED IDEA WOULD YOU LOVE TO ADD TO THE HOMETOWN FAIR THAT MIGHT MAKE A FEW TRADITIONALISTS GASP – BUT WOULD BE UNFORGETTABLE?
A: We’re always thinking about how to make the Fair even more fun, memorable, and a little bit magical. If we could dream big, we’d love to bring back some of that old-school charm – reimagined for today. While elephant rides are (understandably!) a thing of the past, expanding Kid Country with a classic merry-go-round, more carnival-style rides, and interactive games would create that timeless fair experience for a new generation. And with the excitement of the upcoming Olympic Games Los Angeles 2028, there’s also a unique opportunity to introduce fun, Olympic-inspired activities that connect our local community to a global moment, something that could be both unexpected and unforgettable. Of course, bringing bold ideas like these to life comes with rising costs, especially as we continue to prioritize safety and quality. That’s why community support remains at the heart of everything we do. Every donation helps us keep this tradition strong and evolving. To learn more about how to get involved or give back, visit the Manhattan Beach Hometown Fair website, mbfair.org.
www.MBFair.org
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
District Attorney Nathan Hochman speaking at the club at Lido Di Manhattan:Top (Former MB Mayor Russ Lesser and Hochman, Hochman and former MB Mayor Bob Holmes) Bottom (Mayor Pro Tem Joe Franklin, Owner of Lido Di Manhattan Lisa Hemmat, Hochman and MB Council member Steve Charelian)
BE THE TALK OF THE TOWN!
TELL YOUR NEIGHBORS – ADVERTISE IN MB WEEKLY
88% of locals shop and spend locally. For as little as $100, reach your neighbors in Manhattan Beach and surrounding South Bay communities.
An Extraordinary Bargain with No Wasted Audience:
- Local, young, and affluent.
- 68% of our readers are under 50 years old.
- $128,000 average annual income.
For additional information, contact:
MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Actor Howie Mandel at Skechers in Manhattan Beach.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
South Bay realtor and MB Weekly video host Jessiqa Pace.
MB WEEKLY – LENS:
Former MB Mayor Richard Montgomery at a local event.
DON’T CRY…YOU CAN READ MB WEEKLY EVERY THURSDAY:
Once A Week, But Never Weakly.
Sign up to receive MB Weekly for FREE.
www.MBWeekly.net
1. ** The Federal workforce is smaller today than at any point since 1966. There are 352,000 fewer employees since President Trump took office. And despite these reductions, the government is still operating (outside of the Democrats shutting it down for illegal aliens, that is). —- TJF, Manhattan Beach
2. ** Despite its polished website and glowing presentation, the reality at Salo Manhattan Beach leaves much to be desired. A beautiful brand may attract attention, but true success lies in the staff, service, professionalism, and the customer experience. Sadly, in this case, the substance does not appear to match the style. —- Angie S.
3. ** Several Manhattan Beach residents are urging the City Council to halt processing building permits for density bonus projects at 2301 N. Sepulveda and 201–207 N. Sepulveda. They cite a recent Appellate Court ruling, arguing the Residential Overlay District violates state housing laws and that a pause would reduce potential legal and financial exposure. —- G.G.
4. ** In-N-Out owner says no to automated ordering. Thank God! —- Erin G., El Segundo
5. ** Volunteer Opportunity for College Students – Seeking college students in related fields for a rewarding volunteer opportunity assisting teens and young adults with disabilities at a six-week summer enrichment camp in Rancho Palos Verdes. Gain valuable experience and volunteer hours. Interested applicants should email their résumé to TheTwistedRootsArt@gmail.com and note availability.
6. ** I found the staff at Blue Diamond Jeweler in Manhattan Beach flaky. —- Kerri K., El Segundo
7. ** Popeyes has jacked up prices roughly 30% and somehow still found a way to make redeeming the TellPopeyes survey reward nearly impossible. If you’re going to charge premium prices for fast food, at least honor the promotions you dangle in front of customers. This isn’t customer service – it’s bait-and-switch wrapped in fried chicken. —- Oren T., Hermosa Beach
8. ** Soooo, not to brag, BUT… David Jackson, SBCA Head of School, just led his former school’s Latin Club (which he still coaches) to #1 out of 18 HS clubs competing in the Harvard Certamen! I’m so proud…all I can say is “carpe diem” —- Cindy S.
9. ** Having written two books on education, I can attest that gifted programs serve students with above-average intelligence reasonably well. But the truly exceptional minds often outgrow formal schooling early, sometimes leaving college after only a semester, then forging their own path – building transformative companies, industries, and legacies through raw intellect, vision, and relentless self-direction. —- Dr. Scott L.
10. ** An outrageous bill that would actually force California taxpayers to foot the legal bills for illegal aliens in California who are facing deportation has been introduced by Mia Bonta (D), the wife of California’s Attorney General Rob Bonta. Governor Newsom and AG Bonta have spent their time cooking up political lawsuits against the Trump administration while ignoring the massive fraud being perpetrated on California taxpayers. —- TJF, Manhattan Beach
11. ** Police were never uncool. Just look at the enduring popularity of shows like Law & Order and Blue Bloods. Policing became the target of propaganda pushed by a vocal, insulated minority and enabled by cultural elites. Too many adults chose appeasement over guidance – trying to win approval from the young instead of providing leadership. —- Josh T.
12. ** Shade Hotel has a great team that exceeded our expectations. We were holding an event with almost 100 attendees. Dreana was exceptional, constantly following up. The event turned out wonderfully. Every detail was well attended, and the staff was kind. —- MB Weekly Events Team
13. ** At this rate, our neighborhoods will become sterile, soulless copies of every other town in America. Development is bulldozing nature, charm, character, and the very skyline that once made these places special. Greedy, faceless developers destroy what they never built – and shame on us for standing by while it happens again and again. —- Name Withheld by Request, Manhattan Beach
14. ** California drivers are being financially mugged in broad daylight. Nearly $6 per gallon – and climbing – while politicians pretend this is normal. Sky-high taxes, endless regulations, boutique fuel mandates, and anti-business policies have turned gas into a luxury item. Sacramento created this disaster, and hardworking families are the ones paying for it every day. —- Ernie E., Hermosa Beach
15. ** Crime is not interchangeable, nor is it abstract. If illegal immigrants were not present in the United States, then the crimes committed by those individuals here would not have occurred here. That is not rhetoric – it is logic. Every preventable crime matters, and pretending otherwise insults both reason and the victims. —- Cynthia T.
16. ** Let me tell you what nobody wants to admit: DoorDash isn’t just delivery – it’s a whole different restaurant. Prices are inflated, portions shrink, and small businesses get hammered because these apps can take up to 30% of every order. So no, you’re not fully supporting local – you’re feeding Silicon Valley with every lazy tap. —- Carli D., El Segundo
17. ** This is not the first time I have complained about anonymous posts in your publication. Whether I agree or disagree with this one – and I disagree, to be clear – it is cowardly for the author(s) not to identify themselves, and it is irresponsible for you to continue publishing anonymous posts because they inherently lack credibility. —- Michael Jenkins, Manhattan Beach
18. ** “Spot On” Robb! —- Mark Burton, Manhattan Beach
19. ** The State of California collects more in taxes per gallon of gasoline than the oil refineries collect in profit per gallon. California collects about $0.71 per gallon of gas while the average profit a company like Chevron rakes in is typically under $0.20 per gallon. —- TJF, Manhattan Beach
20. ** Parents, not schools, should provide the introduction in complex identity topics. 100% disapprove of the liberal agenda being “forced” into our schools. —- Jim B., Manhattan Beach
Comment / Hire / Share / Promote / Barter / Discuss
The MB Weekly Free Bulletin Board is your place to communicate for free with thousands and thousands of your neighbors in Manhattan Beach. Send your message (maximum 50 words) to: MBWeekly@TimeWire.net
MB Weekly Disclaimer: 1.) MB Weekly accepts no liability for the content of this email, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided. MB Weekly is not associated with any commercial or political organization and is transmitted via the web for the sole benefit of its subscribers. 2.) Unfortunately, computer viruses can be transmitted via email.