City reports “lots of interest” in two Pier vacancies
Greg Kapovich, Redondo Beach waterfront and economic development director, reports that the about-to-close Craig’s Hot Dog On a Stick should give way to a new tenant on the Pier.
“Hey, not to worry, I don’t expect it to be vacant for long,” said Kapovich, describing what Brian Campbell, the city’s Pier leasing agent, is telling him. “He is already fielding calls of interest.”
What about the Fun Factory space?
“Lots of interest,” Kapovich said, of the 30,000-square foot spot that the city is required to keep closed for another eight to nine months as construction crews inside work on a seismic upgrade to the parking garage above.
Could it be another arcade?
“We would love for that,” Kapovich said. “A family-friendly entertainment venue. That is the directive. We want a magnet… I hope to be in serious conversations with a prospective tenant in the next six months.”
Muratsuchi’s book bill passes legislature
The California Freedom to Read Act, introduced by Assemblyman Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance), chair of the Assembly Education Committee, passed the Legislature last week and now goes to Governor Gavin Newsom’s desk.
The bill would prevent public libraries in California from barring books or other materials because of ideas, topics or opinions which are deemed to discriminate based on race, gender identity, nationality, sexual orientation, disability, religion, socioeconomic status or political affiliation.
The bill includes a requirement that public libraries create a collection development policy and a manner for how the public can challenge library materials.
“I am thankful to the members of the Legislature for passing my AB 1825.” Muratsuchi said in a statement. “Our freedom to read is a cornerstone of our democracy, and we need to defend the right of Californians to have access to books that offer diverse perspectives.”
According to the American Library Association (ALA), the number of reported book challenges in the U.S. increased 65 percent from 2022 to 2023, reaching the highest level documented by the ALA. ER
