Breaking

Patch AM: Farewell to the Martins at the Roundhouse Aquarium This Month

Mufid

18 March 2026

Morning Manhattan Beach!

It’s a new day in Manhattan Beach, and there’s plenty to catch up on. From community events to local news, here’s what’s happening in town today.

What’s Happening Today

The Roundhouse Aquarium is saying goodbye to the Martins this month, marking the end of an era for the beloved aquarium. The Martins have been key figures in the aquarium’s operations, and their legacy will continue to live on through the work they’ve done over the years. A farewell gathering is planned for March 14 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the aquarium on the pier.

Manhattan Beach is also celebrating its everyday heroes, specifically the crossing guards who keep children safe while walking to school. The city has recognized these individuals with appreciation days and city-funded contracts at busy intersections. Residents, including a local philanthropist and the mayor, have honored them with certificates, gifts, and heartfelt thanks.

Rising costs and climate pressures are quietly reshaping daily life in Manhattan Beach. From housing affordability to infrastructure challenges, the community is adapting to these changes. The article highlights how shifting demographics, small-business struggles, and increased civic engagement are shaping the future of the area.

Another major development involves emergency communication after a Chevron refinery fire. The incident prompted the city and neighboring agencies to overhaul how emergency alerts are delivered. New measures include holding statements, 24/7 communications chiefs, detailed zone mapping, and an evacuation playbook to ensure residents receive fast and clear instructions during emergencies.

Finally, Mira Costa High School in Manhattan Beach ranks third statewide for sending more students to top UC campuses than demographics alone would predict. The analysis explores how the school stacks up in UC access and what factors contribute to its success beyond raw admission rates.

Weather Forecast

Friday: Delightful with plenty of sun, with a high of 72 and low of 59 degrees.
Saturday: Breezy in the morning; sunny, temps: high: 78, low: 61.
Sunday: Mostly sunny and very warm, with a high of 81 and low of 60 degrees.

News We’re Reading

  1. Into the Wild Blue:Eric and Dawn Martin are leaving for Alaska, but their legacy will live on at the Roundhouse Aquarium.
  2. For a Good Cause:Manhattan Beach celebrates Crossing Guard Appreciation Day.
  3. What’s Changing in Manhattan Beach β€” And Why It Matters:Major shifts in housing costs, infrastructure strain, and environmental pressures are reshaping daily life.
  4. PUBLIC SAFETY:Chevron fire spurs changes in emergency communication.
  5. Ranking California high schools:Mira Costa High School ranks third statewide for UC admissions.

Around Manhattan Beach

Show off your photography skills and the sights around town! Click here to submit your Photo of the Day to MathHotels.comAM!

Upcoming Events in Manhattan Beach

Featured Events

Friday, March 6
Watercolor Artist Jennifer Siegal
Location: 5504 Crestridge Rd, Rancho Palos Verdes
Time: 2:00 pm

Other Local Events
Friday, March 6
Challah Baking Club with Sara, Redondo Beach – 10:00 am
Family Shabbat Live, Redondo Beach – 5:30 pm
Saturday, March 7
HOLI & THE BEACH 2026: LA’S BIGGEST FESTIVAL OF COLORS – Seaside Lagoon, 200 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach – 11:30 am
Knitting and Crochet Club – Harbor City – Harbor Gateway Branch Library – 1:00 pm
Tuesday, March 10
Walk-in Tutoring With Dennis – Harbor City – Harbor Gateway Branch Library – 12:30 pm
Wednesday, March 11
Walk-In Tutoring With Margie – Playa Vista Branch Library – 10:00 am
Walk-In Tutoring With Pat – Playa Vista Branch Library – 10:00 am
Walk-In Tutoring With Cheri – Playa Vista Branch Library – 10:00 am
Saturday, March 14
Opening Exhibition Diversions Fine Arts Gallery: Springtide – 1069 N Aviation Blvd, Manhattan Beach – 9:00 am
Sunday, March 15
Ready, Set, Grow! Preschool & Family Expo – 320 15th St, Manhattan Beach – 9:00 am
Sunday Funday – 2108 Vail Ave, Redondo Beach – 3:00 pm

Manhattan Beach Shout Outs!

Want to say something great about someone in town? Click here to submit your Shout Out to MathHotels.comAM! It’s free!

Have We Missed Something?

Add an event yourself if you think we’ve missed something on our calendar.

Chatter

Neighbors are talking about various topics on social media. One user warned about a scam involving dog sitting a puppy Labrador for a Steve Larson. Another mentioned traffic issues on I-405 S. Additionally, JOEY Restaurants and Olive Garden Italian Kitchen have job openings in Manhattan Beach.

Final Thoughts

As always, before attending confirm event details to ensure accuracy. Thank you for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Ohβ€”and if you like what you’re reading, invite a friend to MathHotels.comAM!

— The MathHotels.comAM Team

P.S. The answer to today’s riddle: Your tongue (Thank you Don H. for sending it in!)

Got a good riddle for MathHotels.comAM? Submit it here!

Author Image

Author

Mufid

Passionate writer for MathHotels.com, committed to guiding travelers with smart tips for exploring destinations worldwide.

Leave a Comment