MAY 11-17, 2023 montereycountyweekly.com LOCAL & INDEPENDENT Adams bows out 12 | The row on the Row 16 | A tribute to tributes 36 | Food scene stealer 40 Fast Track to the Future As pressure mounts to reduce its carbon footprint, auto racing shifts into high gear in the drive toward sustainability. p. 22 By Dave Faries
june 2-10, 2023 Discover the Art of the Plate at more than restaurantsin Carmel-by-the-Sea with immersive food experiences, curated menus, special offers, and culinary events! culinary week kick-off party! Carmel Plaza, Mission & Ocean Ave Friday, June , | : –: pm | $ per person Enjoy amazing food, regional wines and awesome live music in this beautiful outdoor setting. “ratatouille” movie at forest theater Carmel’s Outdoor Theater, Mountain View Ave & Santa Rita St Sunday, June , an evening with ted allen celebrity chef & host of “chopped” Sunset Center, San Carlos & th Ave Thursday, June , | : pm | $–$ per person Ted Allen is the Emmy Award-Winning Host of hit shows “Chopped” and “Chopped Junior” — with a combined run of nearly , episodes so far. 30th annual monterey winemakers’ celebration Dolores Street between Ocean & th Ave Saturday, June , | : pm | $–$ per person Enjoy the incredible wines from one of the world’s premier wine regions in the quaint village of Carmel-by-the-Sea. For exclusive access, event calendar, and to purchase tickets, visit CarmelCulinaryWeek.com or scan for more details! Presented by: Thank you to our partners: th ar o th plat Carmel_Culinary_Week_2023_Weekly_Full Pg_Final.indd 1 5/2/23 3:15 PM 2 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY MAY 11-17, 2023 www.montereycountyweekly.com
www.montereycountyweekly.com MAY 11-17, 2023 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY 3
4 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY MAY 11-17, 2023 www.montereycountyweekly.com
www.montereycountyweekly.com MAY 11-17, 2023 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY 5 CELEBRATING NATIONAL HOSPITAL WEEK This week we celebrate our teams – who are dedicated, committed, compassionate and courageous – every single day. Thank You! May 8–12, 2023 | SalinasValleyHealth.com
6 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY May 11-17, 2023 www.montereycountyweekly.com may 11-17, 2023 • ISSUE #1815 • Established in 1988 Lara Pierson (Samsung S22) After a wet winter, it’s an especially colorful spring. Here, ranunculas blooms pop in the organic garden at the Earthbound Farm farmstand in Carmel Valley. Monterey County photo of the week Send Etc. submissions to etcphoto@mcweekly.com; please include caption and camera info. On the cover: Motorsports sanctioning bodies like IMSA, which visits Laguna Seca this weekend, May 12-14 and IndyCar (pictured), which runs locally Sept. 8-10, are taking steps toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Cover Photo by Joe Skibinski etc. Copyright © 2023 by Milestone Communications Inc. 668 Williams Ave., Seaside, California 93955 (telephone 831-394-5656). All rights reserved. Monterey County Weekly, the Best of Monterey County and the Best of Monterey Bay are registered trademarks. No person, without prior permission from the publisher, may take more than one copy of each issue. Additional copies and back issues may be purchased for $1, plus postage. Mailed subscriptions: $120 yearly, pre-paid. The Weekly is an adjudicated newspaper of Monterey County, court decree M21137. The Weekly assumes no responsibility for unsolicited materials. Visit our website at http://www.montereycountyweekly.com. Audited by CVC. Founder & CEO Bradley Zeve bradley@mcweekly.com (x103) Publisher Erik Cushman erik@mcweekly.com (x125) Editorial editor Sara Rubin sara@mcweekly.com (x120) features editor Dave Faries dfaries@mcweekly.com (x110) associate editor Tajha Chappellet-Lanier tajha@mcweekly.com (x135) Staff Writer Celia Jiménez celia@mcweekly.com (x145) Staff Writer Pam Marino pam@mcweekly.com (x106) Staff Writer Rey Mashayekhi rey@mcweekly.com (x102) Staff Writer Agata Pope¸da (x138) aga@mcweekly.com Staff Writer David Schmalz david@mcweekly.com (x104) DIGITAL PRODUCER Kyarra Harris kyarra@mcweekly.com (x105) Staff photographer Daniel Dreifuss daniel@mcweekly.com (x140) contributors Nik Blaskovich, Rob Brezsny, Sloan Campi, Paul Fried, Jeff Mendelsohn, Jacqueline Weixel, Paul Wilner Cartoons Rob Rogers, Tom Tomorrow Production Art Director/Production Manager Karen Loutzenheiser karen@mcweekly.com (x108) Graphic Designer Kevin Jewell kevinj@mcweekly.com (x114) Graphic Designer Alexis Estrada alexis@mcweekly.com (x114) Graphic Designer Lani Headley lani@mcweekly.com (x114) SALES senior Sales Executive Diane Glim diane@mcweekly.com (x124) Senior Sales Executive George Kassal george@mcweekly.com (x122) Senior Sales Executive Keith Bruecker keith@mcweekly.com (x118) Classifieds business development director Keely Richter keely@mcweekly.com (x123) Digital Director of Digital Media Kevin Smith kevin@mcweekly.com (x119) Distribution Distribution AT Arts Co. atartsco@gmail.com Distribution Control Harry Neal Business/Front Office Office Manager Linda Maceira linda@mcweekly.com (x101) Bookkeeping Rochelle Trawick rochelle@mcweekly.com 668 Williams Ave., Seaside, CA 93955 831-394-5656, (FAX) 831-394-2909 www.montereycountyweekly.com We’d love to hear from you. Send us your tips at tipline.montereycountyweekly.com. We can tell you like the print edition of the Weekly. We bet you’ll love the daily newsletter, Monterey County NOW. Get fresh commentary, local news and sundry helpful distractions delivered to your inbox every day. There’s no charge, and if you don’t love it, you can unsubscribe any time. DON’T MISS OUT Sign up today at montereycountyweekly.com/mcnow
www.montereycountyweekly.com MAY 11-17, 2023 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY 7
8 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY MAY 11-17, 2023 www.montereycountyweekly.com THE BUZZ FREE SPEECH It’s not just stars on screen who make the television shows we love. Some 11,500 writers in the Writers Guild of America are currently on strike after negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers collapsed on May 1. The last time WGA members went on strike was in 2007, when streaming platforms were just emerging, and the union successfully negotiated to get “new media” covered by the guild’s existing “basic minimum agreement.” Since then, streaming has proliferated, and workers say it has effectively created a gig economy with short-term jobs for short seasons, known in the industry as “mini-rooms.” The guild has asked for a minimum of six writers for episodic shows (to preserve the idea of the “writers’ room”) with 10-week minimums, pay increases and limitations on the use of artificial intelligence in script-writing. According to analysis released by AMPTP, the guild’s requests would total $429 million per year, and their counter-offer would cost $86 million per year. Good: Congratulations to the Gateway Center of Monterey County and the families it serves. This week, the nonprofit is celebrating 60 years of helping developmentally disabled people reach their highest potential. The center was started in 1954 by parents who wanted to create a place where their children with special needs could thrive. As those children grew up, the mission changed to serving adults with developmental disabilities. It includes a residential program at its main location in Pacific Grove and a home in Marina, services to help clients live independently, and day programs for developmentally disabled adults. Gateway also offers day programs for senior citizens in P.G. and at a satellite location in Salinas. The organization is celebrating with a gala dinner and fundraising auction at 5pm on Friday, May 12 at the Portola Hotel in Monterey, featuring comedian and youth motivator Michael Pritchard. Great: Long-awaited great news for people who want to catch some air: the city of Marina is celebrating the opening of the first pump track in Monterey County. The nearly 30,000-square-foot track is paved and has two wall rides (40- and 20-foot options), and includes areas for different levels of riders, from beginner to expert. Bikes, scooters and skateboards are welcome; kids as young as 4 are invited. “Pump tracks are really fun for all ages,” says Chris Partida, an experienced bicyclist and volunteer at the upcoming event. The idea for the track originated in 2015 when members of the Monterey Off Road Cycling Association pitched it. Now it’s coming to Gloria Jean Tate Park (3254 Abdy Way, Marina) along with other park upgrades like paved paths, accessible parking spaces and a picnic area. The grand opening is a free, family-friendly event from 10am-2pm on Saturday, May 13. GOOD WEEK / GREAT WEEK THE WEEKLY TALLY Amount of new funding NOAA approved in April to restore habitat—from coastal grasslands to tidal salt marshes and more—on the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve. Source: Elkhorn Slough Foundation $2.2 QUOTE OF THE WEEK “I still think it’s wrong.” -Monterey City Councilmember Ed Smith speaking on May 2 before casting the lone dissenting vote against a plan to approve four locations for cannabis dispensaries in the city. The council voted 4-1 to pursue four retail stores (see story, mcweekly.com). milLion TIP OF THE WEEK! Warmer weather is approaching Let’s enjoy the sun with peace of mind. Are all your estate planning documents current? Legal Services for Seniors is here to help you. If you are over 60 years old and live in Monterey County, please contact us. We’ll be so happy to serve you. Have questions? Call us! 831.899.0492 Legal Services for Seniors Kellie D. Morgantini Interim Executive Director Legal Services for Seniors is a 501(c)(3) organization. ♦ 3 Card Poker ♠ Century 21st No Bust Black Jack ♣ Texas Hold’em ♥ Baccarat FULL BAR! BLACKJACK BONUS POINTS PAYS UP TO $20,000 SMALL TOWN BIG PAYOUTS! 1-800-Gambler • Gega-003846, Gega-Gega-003703, Gega-000889 Gega-000891 Gega-002838 The Marina Club Casino ensures the safety and security of all guests and team members at all times, while providing exceptional service. 204 Carmel Ave. Marina 831-384-0925 casinomonterey.com ♠ ♣ ♥ ♦ Just minutes from Downtown Monterey Where Monterey Comes To Play
www.montereycountyweekly.com MAY 11-17, 2023 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY 9 DR. BRYNIE KAPLAN DAU, MS, DVM VOTED MONTEREY COUNTY’S BEST VETERINARIAN TWO YEARS IN A ROW! ’22 ’21 SURGERY DERMATOLOGY FELINE AND CANINE MEDICINE PREVENTATIVE CARE AND MUCH MORE COMPASSIONATE CARE WITH EXCEPTIONAL MEDICINE. 1023 Austin Avenue, Pacific Grove • 831-318-0306 www.pacificgroveanimalhospital.com Apply at www.centcoastfcu.com, visit your local branch, or call us at (831) 393-3480 Big Become A Member Today and Access Your Home Equity NMLS# 786119 Become A Member Today And Access Your Home Equity A home equity line of credit (HELOC) can be an easy, affordable way to nance home improvement projects, so go ahead, Dream Big! Seaside: 4242 Gigling Rd. Salinas: 900 S. Main St. Soledad: 315 Gabilan Rd. King City: 510 Canal St. DreamBig Ready to unlock the hidden value in your home? *Terms and conditions apply. Apply at www.centcoastfcu.com, visit your local branch, or call us at (831) 393-3480
10 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY May 11-17, 2023 www.montereycountyweekly.com 831 Last fall, when California launched the first-in-thenation program called #CaliforniansForAll College Corps with 3,200 students at over 40 state universities, it had three lofty goals: create a generation of civic-minded leaders; help low-income students graduate on time with less debt; and build more equitable communities across the state. Judging by the first class of College Corps fellows at CSU Monterey Bay, those goals are well on their way to being met. Over the past academic year, 56 CSUMB students have put in at least 450 hours each of community service as College Corps fellows, working at schools and nonprofits around Monterey County. They’ve done more than just offer an extra set of hands in those workplaces—they’ve become mentors and role models for younger students. “I was born and raised in Monterey County and it was very important for me to be able to give back to my community I grew up in. I know the struggles that young individuals go through, especially in the K-12 system,” says Jennifer Pineda, a second-year psychology major who is serving at Edward Alvarez High School in Salinas. “It was important to show these [students] that they can go on to college, especially as first-generation students.” CSU Monterey Bay was way ahead of the state with the idea of university students serving the community. It’s the only public university in California that requires volunteer work in order to graduate. So it was an easy decision for CSUMB officials to join College Corps, created as a result of the California Legislature approving a $146.3 million appropriation to the state’s California Volunteers program for the 2021-22 fiscal year (using $18.8 million from the state general fund and $127.5 million from the Coronavirus Fiscal Recovery Fund of 2021). It’s the first California service program that allows Assembly Bill 545 students, known as “dreamers”—undocumented young adults who were brought to the U.S. by their families before age 15—to participate. To fulfill College Corps’ goal of making college more affordable, each fellow receives $10,000 incrementally over the academic year to use in whatever way they need. The 450 hours of required service works out to around 15 hours a week. While the stipend is a good incentive, those in the program say they are motivated to work what are in essence part-time jobs on top of college courses by a desire to make a difference. Monica Gonzalez, a senior majoring in liberal studies who plans to become a teacher, describes how she goes beyond just helping students with their reading or language skills. “Some students don’t have access to internet to do their homework at home, so I’ve been looking into other programs outside of school to see if I can find them a computer,” she says. Gonzalez also provided information about how to use the library, access the food bank and find affordable rentals. For Nivardo Martinez, who immigrated to the U.S. in the eighth grade, he wanted to work with middle school students also new to the country. “I had to face language barriers, cultural barriers. I like to support the students who come from different countries, who face the same obstacles that I faced. I like to mentor them,” says the junior liberal studies major, who is also minoring in Spanish and music. Fellows say beyond contributing to the community, they take away skills that will help them in future careers, plus a feeling of accomplishment. Thalia Hernandez, who’s been working at Seaside High School, says she feels she’s been a light to students: “It is something I will always take with me because they always look up to me.” Pamela Motoike, a professor at CSUMB’s Service Learning Institute, says College Corps enables fellows to serve the community in a personally meaningful way. “They are such wonderful role models; the community can really relate to them well,” she says. “It’s a special sense of accomplishment for them, but also a very specific way they can contribute who they are.” Called to Serve CSUMB students are making a difference as part of California’s first College Corps. By Pam Marino Evens Lanot (far left) coordinated 56 CSUMB students for California’s College Corps with help from Americorps voluteer Sunny Milligan (second from right). Thalia Hernandez, Monica Gonzales and Jennifer Pineda (left to right) volunteered at schools. “It was very important to give back to my community.” TaLES FROM THE aREa CODE DANIEL DREIFUSS Meaningful Partnerships, Community Connection At the Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, we are connectors, providing our members with valuable introductions to new customers and referral sources. If you're looking for a platform to initiate important conversations and grow your business, we invite you to join our business association today. Join Today! • montereychamber.com • info@montereychamber.com • 831.648.5350
www.montereycountyweekly.com MAY 11-17, 2023 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY 11 Federally Insured by NCUA | Equal Housing Lender 831.479.6000 or toll-free at 888.4BAYFED, ext. 304 www.bayfed.com/HomeLoans * The Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is variable and is based upon an Index plus a margin. The Index is the “Prime Rate” as published in the “Money Rates” section of the online edition of the Wall Street Journal on the first day of the billing cycle. Eligible Lines of Credit loan amounts up to $400,000. As of March 24, 2023, the variable APR for Home Equity Lines of Credit ranged from 8.50% APR to 10.00% APR, depending on your credit score (the lowest APR disclosed includes any applicable rate discounts). The maximum APR during the term of the plan is 18.00%. The maximum loan amount is $400,000. An estimate of the fees imposed for opening the plan are $750 to $2500. However, these fees will be waived and/or paid by the Credit Union provided that our security interest in your home is maintained for at least 36 consecutive months from the date the HELOC account is opened. Otherwise, you must reimburse the Credit Union for these waived and/or paid fees (not to exceed $500). An annual fee of $75 is required on all balances of less than $20,000 after the first year. During the Draw Period, you may convert the variable interest rate and repayment schedule on a portion of your outstanding balance to a fixed rate and repayment schedule (subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Home Equity Line of Credit Agreement). Each time you fix a portion of your loan balance, you will be assessed a charge of $50.00. Only three (3) fixed-rate options may exist at any one time. Offer is available for new applications submitted through December 31, 2023. Loans are subject to credit approval and program guidelines. Interest rates and programs terms are subject to change without notice. Property insurance is required. Other restrictions may apply. Bay Federal Credit Union membership required at the time of closing. For more information, visit any Bay Federal Credit Union branch or call a Bay Federal Home Loan Consultant at 831.479.6000 or toll-free at 888.4BAYFED, ext. 304. Get the Most from Your Home Upgrade in the ways that are most meaningful to you with a Home Equity Line of Credit from Bay Federal Credit Union! Apply Today! Visit bayfed.com/helocflex to learn more. $75 per person exclusive of tax, 20% service charge $35 per person (children 5-12 years) Free for children 4 and under For Reservations, call us at (831) 375-4800 *Menu items and prices subject to change* 750 Cannery Row, Monterey SALADS & DISPLAYS Seafood Display Oysters, Prawns, Crab Legs Hearts Of Romaine Anchovies, Caesar Dressing, Granna Parmesan Organic Mixed Green Salad Citrus Vinaigrette, Beets, Candied Walnuts, Feta Cheese Grav Lax Style Arctic Char Display Cream Cheese, Mustard, Capers, Shaved Onions & Bagels California Rolls with Wasabi & Pickled Ginger Assorted Quiches Assorted Breakfast Pastries HOT ENTRÉES Mother’s Day chaMpagne brunch sunDay, May 8, 2011 10 a.M. to 3 p.M. OmELET STATION Omelets made to order with Assorted Accompaniments DESSERTS Fruit Tarts Cheese Cakes Seasonal Fruit & Berry Display Upon seating you will receive a complimentary glass of sparkling wine! The C is proud to comply with Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch program and support local farms, organically-grown ingredients and sustainability Don’t forget that when you join us at the C your parking is free! Executive Chef Jerry Regester and Team wish you a Happy mothers Day Adults $44.95 Children (12 & Under) $19.00 Children Under 5 Free For Reservations, please call 831.375.4500 750 Cannery Row . monterey, CA 93940 Apple-Wood Smoked Bacon Chicken Apple Sausage Yukon Gold Potato Gratin Monterey Style Cioppino Spicy Saffron-Dungeness Crab Broth Classic Eggs Benedict Ricotta Stuffed Croissant “French Toast” Grilled Rosemary-Garlic Bread the C restaurant + bar IC_Monterey_Mother'sDay2011_AD.indd 1 4/25/11 11:38:43 AM HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH BUFFET SUNDAY, MAY 12, 2019 · 11am - 3pm BREAKFAST Omelet Action Station Dungeness Crab & Classic Eggs Benedict Applewood Smoked Bacon Chicken & Apple Sausage CARVING STATION Leg of Lamb Honey Roasted Ham BUFFET Assorted Sushi & Nigiri Chilled Seafood Display Smoked Seafood Tuna Nicoise Salad Caesar Salad Swank Farms Heirloom Tomato & Burrata English Pea Soup Alaskan Halibut Duck Confit Spring Vegetables Artisan Cheese Display DESSERTS Assorted Danish & Pastries Assorted Desserts & Petite Fours BREAKFAST Omelet Action Station Maine Lobster Eggs Benedict Classic Eggs Benedict Applewood Smoked Bacon Chicken~Apple Sausage CARVING STATION Filet Mignon Leg of Lamb BUFFET Assorted Sushi & Nigiri Chilled Seafood Display Smoked Seafood Quiche ~ Lorraine & Spinach Roasted Baby Beet & Burrata Seasonal Fruit & Berries Wild Alaskan Salmon Duck Confit Spring Vegetables Artisan Cheese Display DESSERTS Assorted Danish & Pastries Desserts & Petite Fours $105 per person, $45 per person (children 5-12 years) Free for children 4 and under Exclusive of tax, 20% service charge For Reservations, Call us at (831) 375-4800 *Menu Items and Prices Subject to Change* 750 Cannery Row, Monterey $75 per person exclusive of tax, 20% service charge $35 per person (children 5-12 years) Free for children 4 and under For Reservations, call us at (831) 375-4800 *Menu items and prices subject to change* 750 Cannery Row, Monterey SALADS & DISPLAYS Seafood Display Oysters, Prawns, Crab Legs Hearts Of Romaine Anchovies, Caesar Dressing, Granna Parmesan Organic Mixed Green Salad Citrus Vinaigrette, Beets, Candied Walnuts, Feta Cheese Grav Lax Style Arctic Char Display Cream Cheese, Mustard, Capers, Shaved Onions & Bagels California Rolls with Wasabi & Pickled Ginger Assorted Quiches Assorted Breakfast Pastries HOT ENTRÉES Mother’s Day chaMpagne brunch sunDay, May 8, 2011 10 a.M. to 3 p.M. OmELET STATION Omelets made to order with Assorted Accompaniments DESSERTS Fruit Tarts Cheese Cakes Seasonal Fruit & Berry Display Upon seating you will receive a complimentary glass of sparkling wine! The C is proud to comply with Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch program and support local farms, organically-grown ingredients and sustainability Don’t forget that when you join us at the C your parking is free! Executive Chef Jerry Regester and Team wish you a Happy mothers Day Adults $44.95 Children (12 & Under) $19.00 Children Under 5 Free For Reservations, please call 831.375.4500 750 Cannery Row . monterey, CA 93940 Apple-Wood Smoked Bacon Chicken Apple Sausage Yukon Gold Potato Gratin Monterey Style Cioppino Spicy Saffron-Dungeness Crab Broth Classic Eggs Benedict Ricotta Stuffed Croissant “French Toast” Grilled Rosemary-Garlic Bread the C restaurant + bar IC_Monterey_Mother'sDay2011_AD.indd 1 4/25/11 11:38:43 AM HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH BUFFET SUNDAY, MAY 12, 2019 · 11am - 3pm BREAKFAST Omelet Action Station Dungeness Crab & Classic Eggs Benedict Applewood Smoked Bacon Chicken & Apple Sausage CARVING STATION Leg of Lamb Honey Roasted Ham BUFFET Assorted Sushi & Nigiri Chilled Seafood Display Smoked Seafood Tuna Nicoise Salad Caesar Salad Swank Farms Heirloom Tomato & Burrata English Pea Soup Alaskan Halibut Duck Confit Spring Vegetables Artisan Cheese Display DESSERTS Assorted Danish & Pastries Assorted Desserts & Petite Fours SUNDAY, MAY 14, 11am - 2pm Complimentary Valet Parking Tenant Ad Space 4.5" w X 4.125" h Travelware crafted for life well-lived. Made to last for life. How to pick + pack the best bags for you PACK LIKE A PRO Join us for a special event GET TO KNOW PACKING EXPERT ANNSLIE BIGBEE The daughter of a diplomat and artist, Annslie found her passion for suitcases and packing when she began traveling at the age of five. Her global journeys include stops in Portugal, Nigeria, Morocco and Uganda. She has tapped into her passion through volunteer efforts with the Peace Corps and Habitat for Humanity and her 13 year career running a specialty luggage store in California. Annslie is the Regional Manager of South Pacific Sales for Briggs & Riley. Luggage expert Annslie Bigbee shares her packing tips and tricks to achieve lighter, easier and smarter business and leisure travels. TOPS N TRAVEL Saturday May 20th, 2023 11:30 am RSVP inside or call 831-622-7500 219 The Crossroads, Carmel Travelware crafted for life well-lived. Made to last for life. PACK ANNSLIE BIGBEE TOPS N TRAVEL Saturday May 20th, 2023 11:30 am RSVP inside or call 831-622-7500 219 The Crossroads, Carmel TOPS N TRAVEL Saturday May 20th, 11:30 am RSVP inside or call 831-622-7500 • 219 The Crossroads, Carmel
12 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY may 11-17, 2023 www.montereycountyweekly.com news North Monterey County Unified School District is several years into a slow-going effort to offload multiple surplus properties. On Sept. 16, 2021, the board voted to sell the administrative district office in Moss Landing, Moss Landing Middle School and vacant land called Mossy Oaks near Castroville, based on recommendations from a surplus property advisory committee. According to school district records, the administrative office wasn’t originally part of the recommendation, but “no longer meets the district’s needs for administrative or school purposes.” DCG Strategies, Inc., a real estate agency based in Dublin, California, is in charge of selling the properties. The district initiated a request for proposals process—instead of calling for sealed bids, in an effort to increase interest in its properties—with a deadline of Jan. 14, 2022 to submit proposals. They received one from Bright Futures Solar for the Moss Landing district office, on a 1.1-acre property. Staff vacated the office in December, and the deal with Bright Futures closed on Jan. 26 for $700,000. Moss Landing Middle School, meanwhile, is currently in escrow, according to NMCUSD spokesperson Yvvette Padilla; the buyer is the soccer club Santa Cruz Breakers F.C. Academy. (According to RedFin, the property is valued at $485,806.) Mossy Oaks is 12.3 acres of vacant land located in the Oak Hills neighborhood near Moro Cojo Slough State Marine Reserve; district records show Caltrans has expressed interest in buying the parcel as a restoration area. NMCUSD’s temporary office is located at North Monterey County High School in Castroville. School’s Out North Monterey County Unified School District is selling multiple surplus properties. By Celia Jiménez Monterey County Supervisor Mary Adams, who has represented District 5 on the Board of Supervisors since 2016, will not seek reelection to a third term in 2024. Adams’ decision will leave open the seat serving much of Monterey County’s coastline, from the Monterey Peninsula south through Big Sur, as well as inland areas like Carmel Valley and the Highway 68 corridor. Monterey City Councilmember Alan Haffa already signaled his intention to run for supervisor earlier this month, and Adams’ announcement will likely be followed by more contenders seeking office on the county’s highest governing body. Adams won the seat in 2016 after defeating 20-year incumbent Dave Potter, now the mayor of Carmel, with a 56-percent majority of the vote. She ran unopposed for reelection in 2020. “I felt that there was not enough transparency and collaboration within county government, and I feel like I’ve made a lot of progress in that,” Adams says, reflecting on her time on the Board of Supervisors. “There are a number of things in the next 18 months that I want to make sure we complete working with the community on,” she adds—noting revisions to the Big Sur Land Use Plan, the Carmel River FREE project and a new short-term rental ordinance among the work that remains. Adams says she was aided in her decision by a recent conversation at a lunch with Leon Panetta, during which the former politician and Monterey native imparted his perspective. “I was telling him that I was trying to decide whether I should run again or stop now,” Adams recalls. “At the end of the lunch, he looked at me and said, ‘I can’t give you any advice, but I do know this: It’s best to go out on top.’ “That resonated with me, and I thought about it a lot,” Adams adds. “I think eight years is a good number to serve in something like this… From what I’ve seen, I think it’s easy for people to forget who they work for—not just in their district, but the entire county.” Prior to holding public office, Adams had a long career in the nonprofit sector, including a 14-year tenure as CEO of United Way Monterey County. While she hasn’t yet decided on what’s next beyond traveling and spending more time with friends, Adams says she wants to continue serving the community after she leaves office in December 2024. “I still have tons of energy to devote to something; I don’t know exactly what it will be,” she says. Adams declined to comment on Haffa’s candidacy. Haffa told the Weekly earlier this month that “on issues like water and housing, District 5 can use a different leader.” Multiple sources say Monterey County Planning Commissioner Kate Daniels is also planning to run for the seat. Daniels managed Adams’ successful 2016 campaign and served as her chief of staff for two years before being appointed by Adams to serve on the Planning Commission. (Daniels declined to comment on her plans.) The District 1 and District 4 seats on the Board of Supervisors—held by Luis Alejo and Wendy Root Askew, respectively—are also up for election next year, and both incumbents have announced that they will seek another term. The nonpartisan primary election will be held on March 5, 2024. By not seeking a third term in office, Monterey County Supervisor Mary Adams will likely trigger a field of candidates eager to succeed her in the District 5 seat. Open Field County Supervisor Mary Adams will not seek reelection to the Board of Supervisors. By Rey Mashayekhi The Moss Landing Middle School, located on 20.5 acres along Highway 1, has been vacant since 2005. North Monterey County Unified School District officials say the property is in escrow. “I think eight years is a good number to serve.” Daniel Dreifuss Daniel Dreifuss
www.montereycountyweekly.com MAY 11-17, 2023 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY 13 Providing Video Security Remote solar CCTV poles and access control to the Central Coast and Central Valley areas. Video Surveillance | Access Control | Video Monitoring Open Monday - Friday: 8am - 5pm By appointments only 38 Spreckels Blvd, Spreckels (831) 431-8827 | DHMentllc.com C7 License #980911 THANK YOU DONORS & SPONSORS PRESENTING SPONSORS DIAMOND SPONSORS GOLD SPONSORS SPECIAL THANKS PLATINUM SPONSORS See all sponsors: cfmco.org/womensfund Changing lives of women and girls The Allaire Family • Tonya Antle • Peggy & Jack Baskin Foundation • Bianchi Kasavan & Pope LLC • Lucia Boggiatto • Boys & Girls Club of Monterey County • Cannery Row Company • Carmel Woman’s Club • Carmel Youth Center • Jeri Gattis • Groza Construction • Hartnell College Foundation •Monterey County Weekly • Carle Mowell • Natividad Foundation • Snip Mobile Spay and Neuter Leavy, Galvin Knight Family David and Susan Gill • Kim Negri, SKN Properties WOMEN’S FUND LUNCHEON SURFRIDER FOUNDATION EVENT MAY 18TH | 4PM-8PM | FREE ALL AGES EVENT PETER B’S BREWPUB | LOCATED BEHIND THE PORTOLA HOTEL & SPA (831) 649-2699 | PETERBSBREWPUB.COM A portion of each purchase will go to the Surfrider Foundation BLUE BEER MIXER A benefit for the Surfrider Foundation’s Monterey Chapter LIVE MUSIC Coastal Commission performing in the Beer Garden Supporting the Surfrider Foundation with prizes including a custom surfboard FOOD & DRINK SPECIALS TWO RAFFLES GLORIA JEAN TATE PARK SAT. MAY 13/11AM-2PM 3254 ABDY WAY/MARINA
14 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY may 11-17, 2023 www.montereycountyweekly.com As winter rains caused Monterey County’s rivers to swell past capacity and rush out to the sea, people began asking: Isn’t there a way to catch and reuse all that water? That’s what Monterey is preparing to do through a project financed by the state—in this case turning runoff lost to Monterey Bay into drinking water. The Lake El Estero Diversion to Sanitary Sewer Project will reroute drainage from the city stormwater system at the lake into existing sanitary sewage pipes along Del Monte Avenue, which lead to Monterey One Water’s regional treatment plant in Marina for recycling into drinking water as part of the Pure Water Monterey project. Currently, stormwater from the hills above Lake El Estero drains into the lake, and then untreated into the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. Once the project is completed, city officials estimate it will capture 100 to 173 acre-feet of water each year, depending on rainfall. (In theory, 100 acre-feet would serve 50 typical five-person households per year, according to the Water Education Foundation. Pure Water Monterey at its current size can produce 3,500 acrefeet of recycled wastewater per year.) It’s a small project at just $1 million, but was deemed important enough by the California State Legislature, which approved the money in the 2022-23 state budget. It was a joint effort between Monterey One Water, the city and former assemblymember Mark Stone’s office to submit the project for consideration. The Monterey City Council voted on May 2 to accept the funding allocation. The city will pay upfront for planning, environmental review and construction to be reimbursed through the State Water Resources Control Board. It’ll take three years to get to construction in the fall of 2025, says Monterey Environmental Regulations Manager Tricia Wotan. During the discussion on May 2, councilmembers alluded to such a project leading to water credits that in turn could give the greenlight to more housing, but it’s not clear yet if that’s a possibility, Wotan says: “We’ve got a lot to do before that would be on the table. Once we understand the potential for the range of water that can be recycled, then we can talk with our partners as to how much water is being saved.” Originally in the plans for construction of the Monterey One Water plant, the Lake El Estero project was at one time dropped for further study, Wotan says. Now it’s been added back in. “It’s a small piece in the puzzle of Monterey One Water,” she says. The Carmel Youth Center, founded in 1949 by entertainment superstar Bing Crosby—creator of his famous “clambake” pro-am golf tournament in Pebble Beach—was originally a place for the village’s preteens and teens to enjoy supervised activities. At some point the nonprofit center expanded to include care for younger children. A complaint that it was operating without a child-care license was lodged with the California Department of Social Services in 2017, bringing an unannounced inspection and an order to revert back to its original purpose, which, according to a DSS report, it did. Somewhere over the last six years, child care was added back into CYC’s offerings in the form of after-school programs and day camps over school breaks, leading to another complaint earlier this year. On March 27, a second DSS investigator showed up unannounced. He told Executive Director Jessica Faddis she could apply for a license but the center had to shut down in the meantime, according to a DSS report. “It was really a very big shock to all of us who depend on the CYC,” said Dr. Julie Kenner, a single working mother, at a Carmel City Council meeting on May 2. Kenner and a number of others asked councilmembers and the community to come to the nonprofit’s aid. (The city owns the land; the nonprofit owns and maintains the building.) Boardmember John Plastini told the council that the 10,000-square-foot, five-level building is a “gem of a property” but was in need of repairs. “The city has been the greatest supporter of the youth center— we’re going to ask more of you,” he said. The CYC board is requesting $50,000 annually for five years from the city, beginning with the 2023-24 budget, which is set to be approved in June. Mayor Dave Potter said he would meet with CYC leaders to discuss possible funding solutions. How and when the center will be able to reopen is unclear—Faddis and board members contacted by the Weekly did not respond to messages. Slow Flow A stormwater capture and recycling project takes shape at Lake El Estero in Monterey. By Pam Marino news Migration Stories Angie Ngoc Tran teaches political economy and global studies at CSU Monterey Bay. She was born and raised in Vietnam, and escaped by boat at 17. She speaks about her research and 2022 book, Ethnic Dissent and Empowerment: Economic Migration between Vietnam and Malaysia. 11:30am-1:30pm Thursday, May 11. Hilton Garden Inn, 1000 Aguajito Road, Monterey. $40/members Democratic Women of Monterey County; $45/ nonmembers; $30/students; includes lunch. info@dw-mc.org. Coastal Creatures Pacific Grove’s Beautification and Natural Resources Commission provides an opportunity to learn about Pacific Grove’s wildlife including monarch butterflies, black oystercatchers, harbor seals and deer. This meeting will be held both in-person and virtually. 6pm Tuesday, May 16. Pacific Grove City Hall, 300 Forest Ave., Pacific Grove. Free. 648-3100, cityofpacificgrove.org. Traffic Calming Seaside officials working on the Hilby Avenue Calming Project are offering a guided walk of the area, followed by a workshop for community input. Share your thoughts and concerns about traffic on Hilby Avenue, and suggestions for what you would like to see change. Street experience walk happens at 5:30pm-6:15pm Wednesday, May 17. Meet at Hilby Avenue and Wheeler Street or at Hilby Avenue and Waring Street. Community input workshop happens at 6:30-8pm Wednesday, May 17 ay Oldemeyer Center, 936 Hilby Ave., Seaside. Free. 899-6700, ca-seaside. civicplus.com/802/Project-Outreach. starting young The Monterey County Workforce Development Board is teaming up with Mission Trails ROP program and Salinas Union High School District’s career and technical education program to host a youth job fair. Bolster your resume, practice your interview skills and learn how to compete in the job market. 2-5pm Wednesday, May 17. 344 Salinas St., Salinas. Free. 796-3335, montereycountywdb.org. Open Doors U.S. Rep. Zoe Lofgren, D-San Jose, now represents much of Monterey County. She holds mobile office hours to meet with local constituents and hear their concerns. Call ahead to schedule an appointment. 10am-4pm Wednesdays May 17 and 24. District 18 mobile office at Monterey County District Attorney’s Office, 142 W. Alisal St., Salinas. Free. 837-6000, congress.gov. Care, Interrupted Carmel Youth Center leaders seek to reopen after the state shuts them down for no license. By Pam Marino Monterey Environmental Regulations Manager Tricia Wotan shows where stormwater pipes will link at Lake El Estero with pipes to the Pure Water Monterey recycling plant. e-mail: publiccitizen@mcweekly.com TOOLBOX “It’s a small piece in the puzzle.” Daniel Dreifuss
www.montereycountyweekly.com MAY 11-17, 2023 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY 15 Than Yo ! COMING JULY 2023 AD SUBMISSION DEADLINE JUNE 8 831-394-5656 sales@mcweekly.com Visitors are popping up everywhere! Visitors GuideFREE 2022-2023 Map • REstauRants • DRinks • FaRMERs MaRkEts • EVEnts aRts • REcREation • BEachEs • GolF • cannaBis Published by Best of Monterey Bay® cover_vg22.indd 1 6/23/22 10:32 AM Invite them to do business with you in the Best of Monterey Bay® Visitors Guide
When Bob Faulis meets for lunch on May 4, he is a grateful man. It’s the national day of prayer, and hours earlier, Faulis emceed a prayer breakfast at Portola Hotel. While doing so, he made an announcement: Ruby Falls Fund, LLC, of which Faulis is a principal, prevailed in the state Court of Appeal in its litigation with Aqualegacy Development, LLC, over who the rightful owner is of the derelict property at 484 Cannery Row, which has sat vacant for decades. Of the roughly 180 people in attendance, he says, about 80 percent broke into applause upon hearing the news. “I was surprised at the number of the people that thanked me, and congratulated me,” Faulis says. “I’m trying to do something good for people.” In his view, Faulis has earned that goodwill through years of being active in the community—going to Monterey City Council meetings, attending beach cleanups, and being active in Monterey’s ministry of Christian Business Men’s Connection, which states on its website that its goal “is to connect businesses and the marketplace to Christ.” He adds, “I’m not just an out-of-town developer. It was really neat to see that people know me.” Faulis arrived in the area in 2018 from San Diego, the year after Ruby Falls acquired the property from the inelegantly named 2012 Canrow Owner, LLC. He quickly went about establishing relationships with local leaders, and evangelizing about the project the Monterey City Council approved in 2004 (with a slew of conditions), and that the California Coastal Commission approved in 2008 (with more conditions): A development that would bring 87,000 square feet of retail and restaurants, 38 market-rate condos, 13 workforce housing units and 377 parking spaces to the last vacant property on Cannery Row. The global recession that followed put the project on ice indefinitely, as funding was impossible to come by. The events that followed regarding ownership of the property are dizzying in their complexity. They centered around the fact that there are two deeds of trust on the property, and that the chain-of-title on the deed—who invested what, and how much of the property they owned—were incomplete. Aqualegacy bought the property in 2013, and was foreclosed on in 2014. In a foreclosure sale at the Castroville library, Medallion Servicing bought the property back on behalf of Canrow. In 2017, Canrow then sold the property to Ruby Falls, and ever since, there’s been litigation over who actually owns it, as Aqualegacy argued the foreclosure sale was unlawful due to improper procedure, among other things. Former Monterey County Superior Court Judge Lydia Villareal, now retired, issued a decision in 2021 granting Aqualegacy title to the property; Ruby Falls and Canrow appealed. On May 1, the state Court of Appeal overturned Villereal’s decision, giving title to the property back to Ruby Falls. The court ruled that Aqualegagy was not entitled to notice of the foreclosure sale, and also that it was not entitled to the $1.19 million in attorney’s fees it was awarded by Villareal. The case could possibly go to the state Supreme Court; Phil Taylor, Agualegacy’s principal, did not respond to requests for comment. So now that Ruby Falls has title to the property, what’s next? That’s not clear. Ruby Falls sued the Coastal Commission in January 2020 after the agency, in November 2019, didn’t extend the coastal development permit for the project due to changed circumstances—mainly, an increased understanding of climate change-induced sea level rise—since its original determination. That litigation was put on pause in 2021 until the litigation over ownership was sorted out. Now, barring a hearing before the state Supreme Court, that question appears to have been answered. Faulis believes that any permits granted are also put on pause—what’s called “tolling”—when a project is embroiled in litigation. (That’s been the case with the project’s permits with the city of Monterey, which have been continually renewed.) Aside from a deeper understanding of sea level rise, one more thing has changed since the project was approved that could potentially impact the Coastal Commission’s analysis: water supply. The approval of the expansion of Pure Water Monterey would theoretically provide enough water—pending approval from the state to lift a cease-and-desist order it imposed after Cal Am’s illegal overpumping of the Carmel River—to serve the project, now called Cannery Row Plaza, as well as any other local projects in the pipeline. Whether or not that water supply is explicitly available will be, for the time being, a determination made by California American Water, the private utility that delivers water to the Monterey Peninsula. As proposed, the Cannery Row Plaza project would include its own desalination component to provide water, something the Coastal Commission had many concerns about. Faulis hopes that with the approved expansion of Pure Water Monterey, there won’t be a need to include the desal component (eliminating it would cut costs considerably, and assuage many of the Coastal Commission’s concerns about the project; that said, it does not currently have a coastal development permit). From Faulis’ perspective, outside of the litigation with the Coastal Commission, the next steps are to raise money for the engineering designs of the project. Whether or not that includes the original plans for an onsite desalination plant remains to be seen. Faulis says that he and his partners are going to ask what investors want to see in the project, which could ultimately lead to an entirely new proposal altogether. That would be a heavy lift—it’s difficult to get any major project approved within the Coastal Commission’s jurisdiction, and having to reapply for a new permit would be costly and take years, even if it were successful. Despite what might be a tough road ahead, Faulis conveys gratitude, and a devotion for his vision for the long-derelict property. “I don’t want to see T-shirts and candy shops, I want to see something more invigorating to the street. Something educational,” he says, referring to the museum within the proposed Cannery Row Plaza plans. “Change is finally going to happen over all these years, and the change is hopefully going to be something the majority of people really enjoy, and really like.” Coast Clearing Hurdles remain in developing Cannery Row’s last vacant property—but now we know who owns it. By David Schmalz Bob Faulis by the Cannery Row property that once housed the San Xavier Cannery warehouse. Monterey City Council approved a mixed-use project on the waterfront property in 2004, but it remains undeveloped, caught in a web of lawsuits. One of those suits—about who owns the property—was resolved on May 1 in the Court of Appeal. news “I’m not just an outof-town developer.” Daniel Dreifuss 16 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY may 11-17, 2023 www.montereycountyweekly.com
www.montereycountyweekly.com MAY 11-17, 2023 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY 17 26384 Carmel Rancho Ln., #103 Carmel-by-the-Sea 831.899.5464 monterey-mattress.com VISIT OUR SHOWROOM Open Any Day By Appointment My beloved father passed away at 87 years of age and will be greatly missed. He was my business partner in Monterey Mattress for 36 years. His legacy lives on with me, in Carmel, and the brand, Monterey Mattress Gingerich-Built, and is well-known around the Amish town of Kalona, Iowa and Iowa City, home to The University of Iowa. My best friend and greatest supporter, I got him into the business when he moved out here after the Iowa farm economy became bad. Of Amish-Mennonite roots, he was a master woodworker and custom home builder, and owned quite literally the most progressive cattle farm in the state of Iowa, home to the first national soil conservation fair. Of local note, he restored the historic original antique bar at Clint Eastwood’s Mission Ranch. With a glimmer in his eye, his sense of humor was unsurpassed. He would always put everyone before himself, and his generosity of spirit was also unsurpassed. He leaves behind my mother, Ruth, my four siblings, five grandchildren and seven great grandchildren, all living around our family farm. My Father, Dale Gingerich, aka Pops Panda NOVEMBER 11, 1934 ~ MAY 27, 2022 Monterey Mattress SP23.qxp_Layout 1 2/10/23 1:45 PM Page 1 My father, Dale Gingerich, aka Pops Panda, passed away at 87 years of age and will be greatly missed. My business partner in Monterey Mattress for 36 years, his legacy lives on with the brand, Monterey Mattress GingerichBuilt, and is well-known around the Amish town of Kalona, Iowa and Iowa City, home to the University Of Iowa. Best friend and my greatest supporter, I got him into the business when he moved out here after the Iowa farm economy became bad. Of Amish-Mennonite roots, he was a master woodworker and custom home builder, and owned quite literally the most progressive cattle farm in the state of Iowa, home to the first national soil conservation fair. The farm is still owned and operated by my sister and brotherin-law, Keith and Barb Schweitzer. Of local note, he restored the historic original antique bar at Clint Eastwood’s Mission Ranch. With a glimmer in his eye his sense of humor was unsurpassed. He would always put everyone before himself, and his generosity of spirit was also unsurpassed. He leaves behind his wife Ruth, me and my four siblings: Barb (Keith) Schweitzer, Grant Gingerich, Jane (Darwin) Mesch, Joan (Glenn) Siders as well as five grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. - Brian Gingerich Dale Gingerich, aka Pops Panda NOVEMBER 11,1934 - MAY 27,2022 Built on a foundation of tradition, ready for the future. VISIT OUR SHOWROOM Open Any Day By Appointment 26384 Carmel Rancho Ln., #103 Carmel-by-the-Sea 831.899.5464 monterey-mattress.com
18 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY may 11-17, 2023 www.montereycountyweekly.com To the Worms Great piece on commercial composting in Monterey County and the restrictions (some reasonable/some not) placed by ReGen (“A recently enacted state law aiming to keep food waste out of landfills presents great challenges, but also a vital opportunity,” May 4-10). It was thorough enough to inform the reader/residents of the process and the variables. Nice job of widening your lens to note some other cities’ plans and equipment and how well those cities have partnered with the residents to help their programs be successful. Those cities chose to trust the intelligence of their taxpayers to follow instructions re: which/what bags to use, thus working hard to be sure the entire composting plan is accepted and successful. I’m hopeful ReGen will realize its flawed decision on compostable bags for our bins, because without them, the slime from ReGen’s decision may ooze all over the acceptance of the overall plan. d’Aulan Gentry | Pacific Grove Here are the issues with local composting via Greenwaste: • Leaving compost in a 64-gallon bin results in maggots, flies, slime, bacteria and decay. • Leaving that bin out to be tipped over and scattered by raccoons isn’t a solution. • Now, if I could bag the garbage, that would solve the problem but the local processor will not let us get around these problems because they refuse to accept certified compostable bags. • So it’s up to me to live with the rot in the bins, the garbage in the streets and to wash the bins out each week then? Look: I’m heading toward 80 and cannot be crawling around inside trash bins to wash them out. Not even sure I could physically do it. Neither do I have a desire to go clean up the street each week of scattered garbage. • Besides that, we’re in the middle of a drought. Is washing out bins the best use for water? • I try to be a good citizen. I’m now out just under $100 for the compostable bags I bought but I cannot use. • After being forced to discard my compostable bags, the only thing I could think of was a garbage disposal, so I spent a few hundred dollars to buy a new one and have it installed, only to later learn that’s only a partial solution, and much of the food we eat cannot be used in a disposal. Here I am: So far I’ve spent nearly $400 being a “good citizen” and it was all for naught. [Local waste haulers] need to provide a rational, workable solution to resolve all the problems this creates, instead of the thoughtless and short-sighted “solution” they have imposed on us so far. Their solution is worse than the problem. Tracy Valleau | Marina Thank you for writing about this important issue. We waste so much food it is shameful. I love that there may be some legal movement regarding accurate labeling on when to use foods! So many people toss food when it reaches the “best by” date when it is perfectly good. We simply cannot afford to live like that anymore. We all need to take on our responsibility for creating less waste, stop using plastic, and move into a new age of conscious and reduced consumption. Kudos to California for being a leader on this. I hope the legislature takes it forward in clearer food product labeling with SB 660. Susan Schiavone | Seaside Crisis Point Another disheartening story about DLI, where I worked for over seven years (“The Defense Language Institute saw three educators die by suicide in 2022,” May 4-10). In my experience, the benefits of new products are often oversold and, if they are found wanting, low-level employees are blamed. Moreover, they labor in an environment where favoritism is rife. Suicide prevention efforts work best when the person who reaches out for help has a sudden setback in their life—counselors can talk them through it. But toxic work environments are a long-term source of emotional debilitation from which there is no escape except by resigning. Elizabeth Bowditch | Seaside Gun Safety Nice perspective (“Every gun death is a preventable death,” posted May 3). There are gun statutes concerning gun safety and gun storage. Those who acquire and use guns for illegal purposes should be prosecuted to the maximum extent of the law. No excuses. J.R. Roland | Monterey Thank you for a sensitive, thoughtful discussion of gun ownership and the sometimes tragic consequences. A very touching, moving and provocative piece. Elliot Ruchowitz-Roberts | Carmel Lights On Bravo to the Seaside Police Department (“Seaside Police Department will launch a program to pay for vehicle repairs in lieu of tickets,” May 4-10). Great way to protect and serve the community! Alan Romero | Monterey air and fire Let’s keep them local. And unionized (“Monterey Regional Airport’s search for fire protection services turns out to be a controversial battle,” posted May 2). Gilbert Vega | Seaside Fan Club I liked your story about Monterey Bay F.C. (“Monterey Bay F.C. has the players, the stadium and the look. In year two, the question is whether the fans will follow,” April 27-May 3). The Monterey Peninsula/Salinas Valley split you discuss sounds familiar; I think most teams struggle with that marketing conundrum. For what it’s worth, Austin had a couple of tries in the USL Championship, and we never got beyond the attendance level y’all are at; we felt like 4,000 fans was a huge success. I still don’t understand the business plan for a minor league soccer team; I think it depends on developing players, and selling them on to a higher level, more than it does on attendance. Nick Barbaro | Austin, Texas Letters • CommentsOPINION Submit letters to the editor to letters@mcweekly.com. Please keep your letter to 150 words or less; subject to editing for space. Please include your full name, contact information and city you live in.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjAzNjQ1NQ==