Symphanie Rosario
Staff Writer
In December 1912, the city of Manhattan beach was officially created by George Peck and John Merrill. Throughout the year of 2012, the city of Manhattan Beach and its residents will be celebrating the city’s 100 birthday by throwing events that showcase the city’s history throughout the year.
In celebration of the centennial, the head of Parks and Recreation of Manhattan Beach, Richard Gill, along with other organizations such as the Neptunian’s Women Club, has been coordinating events such as the Manhattan Beach School Art Contest and the upcoming event, Taste of Manhattan Beach.
The Manhattan Beach School Art Contest was held throughout February and March by the Neptunian’s Women Club and was open to students of all grade levels. There were about 60 entries into the contest and the winners’ pieces will be displayed at the Taste of Manhattan Beach event held on March 25 in downtown Manhattan.
“It’s rare to live in a town with so much history,” Mira Costa junior, Robin Paris, said. “Even if you live in an old town, most people don’t celebrate it like we do in Manhattan Beach.”
Featured in the Taste of Manhattan Beach event is cuisine from select local restaurants such as Petros and Simmzy’s. There will be live music and entertainment, chef demonstrations and a farmers market which is open to the public at the event. The bands to perform at the event have not yet been announced. Tickets to attend are $15 each or $25 for two.
“I’m excited to go to the taste of Manhattan Beach,” Mira Costa junior, Gabrielle Liddy said. “It should be a fun way to celebrate the 100th anniversary of our city. I’m excited to try all of the different cuisines and listen to the bands that will be performing.”
The Manhattan Beach Downtown Business Owners Association and other local businesses will come together to celebrate the city’s centennial on July 7 at the Centennial Festival. At the Festival, there will be a car show featuring vintage cars that symbolize life in southern California, such as the Woodie. Historic photos depicting Manhattan’s humble beginnings will also be placed around town and in store fronts.
“Manhattan Beach is a place that has seen a lot in 100 years, and it clearly reflects that,” said Mira Costa sophomore, Lynn Wang. “I think it’s interesting, and indeed exciting, to think that this little city by the bay has been around for so long.”
One of the many other exciting events being organized to celebrate the centennial is a parade on May 19. In the parade there will be floats from various community organizations, marching groups such as the Mira Costa Marching Band and a dignitary. The parade will end in Polliwog Park with a picnic including a historic photo display, food and entertainment.
Residents of Manhattan Beach can participate in the celebratory events throughout the year and volunteer in the Centennial Committee. So far there have been over 150 volunteers helping to raise funds, market, work events, and organize. High school students are encouraged to volunteer and will be given service credits.
“I think it’s really interesting that Manhattan Beach has it’s own commemorative medallion,” Mira Costa junior, Logan Tonder said. “There are a lot of little towns throughout the country, and I think it’s really unique that ours has a coin to represent its history.”
One resident of Manhattan Beach is celebrating the centennial in his own unique way. James Gill, a Manhattan Beach resident since birth, has designed the commemorative medallion to represent the occasion.
“I have been collecting coins for most of my life,” James Gill, the coin designer said.“ I also own the 75th anniversary edition. I wanted to improve upon the design of the 75th medallion, and thought that this was the perfect occasion to do so.”
Gill, who has been designing the coin since 2008, created it with the city pier on one side. On the the other side a surfer and volleyball player are pictured along with the Manhattan Beach seal. Gill chose a volleyball player and a surfer to symbolize two of Manhattan’s favorite pastimes.
The commemorative medallion was minted at the Northwest Territory Mint and is available in silver and brass. So far, 59 silver and 34 brass coins have been sold to the public. They are available for purchase at mb100coin.com.
“I think it’s important to celebrate Manhattan Beach’s birthday,” Manhattan Beach Resident, Emmee Sarmiento said. “Buying the coin is the perfect way to celebrate. It’s a interesting keepsake to have and it will remind my kids of the history of the city.”
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