Manhattan Beach’s big 100 [2012 Newsmaker]
Manhattan Beach celebrated its centennial year, beginning and ending with spectacular fireworks. The politics in between were considerably less spectacular. Photo by Jeff Orr Manhattan Beach rolled into its centennial year with a big bang last December, sending off extravagant fireworks over its pier. Anticipation was high for the celebratory year ahead, but maintaining those high spirits throughout 2012 proved to be challenging for City Council and the Centennial Committee, which, in the face of budget issues, miscommunications and disagreements, ended up canceling two major events. Commemorating the centennial of Manhattan Beach was a tall order. Incorporated in 1912, the upscale beach city we know now was once owned by several land developers. It is widely believed that a coin toss determined the name of Manhattan Beach, after developer Stewart Merrill’s hometown: Manhattan in New York. Two years ago, the Centennial Committee began meeting in preparation of events and festivities. The committee consisted of 10 members appointed by City Council as well as council members Nick Tell and Richard Montgomery, who later stepped down and was replaced by council member Amy Howorth. With…
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