Week in Review: Wii Games, RVs and a Power Plant Rally

Summer drew to an unofficial close last weekend with the Wii Games and more foggy weather. The city got back to business after Labor Day, weighing a proposed ordinance that would restrict overnight parking of oversize vehicles and the implications of the state budget impasse. 

Sunday

Ed Pilolla reported from the Wii Games final, and discovered winners who never expected to triumph. More than 200 finalists competed over the weekend after qualifying at various events over the summer throughout the country.

Monday

Without the public art program that transformed lifeguard towers, it would have been a very gray summer indeed. Rena Ragimova quizzed residents about the project and got a thumbs up; sadly, the art's coming down next month. Locals couldn't hide their disappointment about a bummer of a summer, with a sun that refused to shine. The sun made a belated appearance Labor Day, drawing crowds at the Redondo pier and Hermosa Fiesta.   

Tuesday

Green Zone columnist Joe Galliani returned to the Environmental Charter High School on its first day of classes for a tour led by students. Vickey Kalambakal inquired about a deteriorating bank mosaic by Susan Hertel, a protege of Millard Sheets, and found a savior in the latest owners, Wells Fargo. 

Wednesday

The Redondo Beach City Council  moved one step closer to restricting RV parking on city streets overnight. After listening to heartfelt pleas from residents on both sides of the issue, officials modified the proposed ordinance, expected to be approved Oct. 5. The City Council also approved a second farmers market in Redondo. The first farmers market in Riviera Village is expected to begin Sept. 17.

Redondo Mom Michelle Veale Borden urged readers to ditch the minivan and take a walk instead. It's much healthier for parents and their children. We also shined a spotlight on nonprofit organization Cheer for Children.

Thursday

Redondo Beach might have to drain its reserve fund if the state budget impasse continues. City Manager Bill Workman warned the City Council that the state might not release moneys owed Redondo until after the November election. Bianca Avelino reported on Giulliano's efforts to wine and dine customers. Among the new services: A wine bar and indoor seating. And Ed Pilolla wrote about plans for a native garden in Herondo Park. The hitch: The city has to hammer out a lease with Southern California Edison. 

Friday

Wave Rider columnist Tori MacLennan finally got a chance to try her husband's paddleboard and discovered riding it wasn't as easy as he made it look. Art Thompson filed a preview of Redondo Union's football game against Serra High, pointing out that the local team had a big challenge in Gardena's team. In the end, . Ed Pilolla profiled the Lanakila Outrigger Canoe Club as it prepared for the 31-mile Catalina Channel Crossing U.S. Championships.  

We also posted a rundown on weekend events and garage sales in the Beach Cities.

Saturday

Marcus Bockman filed a video report from the "Tear Down This Power Plant" rally at the corner of 190th/Herondo and Pacific Coast Highway. Councilman Bill Brand and AES representatives were there as well. And Ed Pilolla visited the 9/11 candlelight vigil that evening.