Week in Review: Rethinking Oil and Preparing for Waves

Here's a recap of stories covered at Manhattan Beach Patch for the week of June 27 - July 3.

SUNDAY

Racing legend Ted Ernst, founder of the Chevron Manhattan Beach Grand Prix, celebrates the 50th anniversary of Ted's Manhattan Cycles while dividing the world's inhabitants into two groups—spectators and gladiators.

In the wake of the BP oil spill, activists form a human line in the sand by joining hands on Manhattan Beach and urging legislators to find alternative sources of energy.

MONDAY

Our Arctic explorer James Locke discovers how quickly the tundra can change, as well as how nurturing it can be, leading to visions of naps on reindeer lichen.

Mustangs' sophomore catcher Katie Saunders is recognized for having expanded her role behind the plate this season and hitting .563—earning her second-team All-CIF honors.

Two first-time winners capture the top prizes in the men's and women's pro races of the Manhattan Beach Grand Prix.

TUESDAY

After a long day counting trees in a mosquito-infested swamp, Arctic correspondent James Locke jumps into the near-freezing Hudson Bay.

A pilot valet parking program for restaurants around Highland and Rosecrans avenues receives approval from the PPIC before moving on to the City Council.

WEDNESDAY

Arctic explorer James Locke's work is not yet done, as his last day in the field brings the biggest surprise yet, as well as fen "surfing" and some bittersweet moments.

Mira Costa High seniors Lucas Whitehill and Robert Parucha are recognized for having led the Mustangs to a Bay League championship and into the semifinals of the CIF-SS Division II playoffs.

Food columnist Allison Arbuthnot discovers the "freedom of freshness" at the farmers market, and offers a recipe using Bella Sol Foods mango salsa and fresh salmon.

THURSDAY

Our Arctic traveler's last day catches him by surprise as he contemplates his return and reflects on the lessons he learned on the Hudson Bay.

Fundraising begins for Movies on the Beach, one of the biggest outdoor family events of the year.

The Manhattan Beach Fire Department gives residents a refresher course on local fireworks rules, cautioning that the city will enforce its ban of all fireworks during the holiday weekend.

A forum and fundraiser at a downtown bookstore remembers the late UCLA basketball legend John Wooden and includes memories of local baseball history as well.

FRIDAY

Police prepare for the holiday weekend by adding more staff and providing a Q&A on topics such as local fines for drinking on the beach.

Attendees of an event hosted by TEDx Manhattan Beach exchange opinions about global oil dependence, sustainable energy and leading more healthful lifestyles.

SATURDAY

With expected crowds in excess of 30,000 over the Fourth of July weekend, Manhattan Beach businesses prepare for the holiday hordes.

The National Weather Service warns of an approaching swell caused by a storm near New Zealand, with local waves expected to reach highs of 10 feet starting Sunday.