Week in Review: Unwelcome Critters and Missing Converters

This week money is raised for Hermosa's school libraries, just in time for the first day of classes, and special needs youth learn how to surf.

Just in case you missed Patch's coverage, here is an overview of some of the latest news in Hermosa Beach.

Taste at the Beach

More than 200 food lovers attended the Taste at the Beach this year, helping raise money for the Hermosa Valley and Hermosa View school libraries. The summer social affair was held at the Community Center on Aug 22. Local restaurants and vintners set up booths for attendees to sample specialty dishes and beverages.

Raccoons, skunks and rodents

Residents and animal control experts have noticed infesting local homes and buildings. More wildlife has been invading residential areas due to a high level of construction in the city, especially along Pier Avenue, according to experts. Humane animal trappers have helped capture these critters and release them back into their natural habitat.

Dr. King's dream

Saturday marked the 47th anniversary of the 1963 March on Washington, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. famously gave his "I Have a Dream" speech. Hermosa Beach resident John Ehrenfeld took Patch to task for devoting a large amount of news coverage to the South Bay Tea Party this week, at a time when Hermosa should have been honoring King's legacy.

Catalytic converter thefts

Two catalytic converters were stolen in Hermosa Beach on Monday. Even more thefts have swept neighboring areas in Redondo Beach this week. Police suspect that thieves are stealing converters from vehicles for the platinum found in them. Platinum sells for about $1,500 an ounce.

Surf camp 

Special needs youth learned how to conquer waves like pros at the Chevron Surf Camp this week. The South Bay's Friendship Circle teamed up with the popular surf camp to organize classes for the youth. The camp ended Friday.

Don't forget to check out Patch every day for your Hermosa Beach news coverage.