Week in Review: Beach Bathroom Blight and Dune Developments

Here's a recap of stories covered at Manhattan Beach Patch for the week of July 11 - 17.

MONDAY

Artist Alison Wright's latest exhibit offers a unique perspective on surfing hero Kelly Slater and the purpose of a shared public art experience via a gigantic bowling set.

Harry Munns proposes consolidating local emergency services among the three beach cities. Mandonosa Beach, anyone?

While Manhattan Beach took time to celebrate the nation's independence, thieves were busy "freeing" residents from their personal property.

TUESDAY

The week's police blotter: A man texts his stolen cell phone and receives a response asking for a ransom, and an iPhone is stolen from the Apple Store without setting off any alarms.

District 6 residents to get their concerns addressed and the district's underground utility project completed before 2012, as city staff meet with Verizon.

WEDNESDAY

City residents and visitors say public restrooms along the Strand are unsanitary and in need of better upkeep, eliciting a promise from the county to make repairs and more regular cleaning crew visits.

Food columnist Allison Arbuthnot visits the Manhattan Beach Farmers Market for its fourth birthday and discovers a party in progress. She comes away with a summery recipe for Cool and Spicy Melon Soup.

THURSDAY

Manhattan Beach's own Todd Becker of Beckers Bakery puts his skills to the test on national television with an appearance on the Food Network's Cupcake Wars.

Responding to a NAACP resolution on alleged racism within the national Tea Party's ranks,

City reveals new pay-to-play online reservation system for workouts and recreation in Sand Dune Park.

FRIDAY

A juvenile allegedly attacks two men with knives during an early morning argument.

Costa All-Stars battle back through the bracket in District 2 title game to set up a rematch, but can't take down Norwalk.

The Manhattan Beach advanced Staypuft Dodgeball League starts its season in a flurry of flying balls at the Marine Avenue AdventurePlex, as two co-ed teams try to eliminate one another from the court.

SATURDAY

South Bay School of Cooking's Kids Cooking Camp teaches valuable life skills and nutrition all under the guise of making some good grub.