CRA News Sept. 2006

Selected articles from the newsletter of the Carmel Residents Association

Remembering Our History Through Photos See below for details.

CRA Meeting -- Creative affordable housing options which preserve Carmel's character

Brian Congleton's enthusiastic talk last January on Carmel cottages was such a hit that we have asked him to be the opening speaker on Sept. 28. This time his Power Point presentation will illustrate creative solutions for affordable housing which Carmel could implement without a loss of community character. Congleton's wonderful architectural photos are always a highlight of his presentations.

Current affordable-housing regulations could compromise Carmel's ambiance with the allowance of increased density, decreased setbacks and other incentives. And state law on senior and low-cost housing can supersede local building codes.

In early 2001, when Congressman Sam Farr asked the local chapter of the American Institute of Architects to address Monterey County's housing crisis, they hosted a worldwide design competition called Concepts to elicit fresh ideas. Congleton was co-chair of this effort, and will include the most interesting of the 135 innovative proposals which were submitted for five categories of housing:

• Mixed-use projects (residential-commercial)
• Inner-community infill housing
• New construction projects
• Adaptive reuse
• Paradigm shift (if the rules aren't working, throw them out.)

Brian Congleton's extensive community service includes stints on the Carmel Planning Commission, the Carmel Design Traditions Committee, the Carmel Area Wastewater District and the Economic Development Commission. Also, he produced the master plans for the Scout House and Forest Theater, and designed the relocation of the Sunset Center concession stand to the Forest Theater.

IN MEMORIAM
J.S. "Jim" Holliday

[The article below is reprinted with Jim's permission. We are gratified that he was able to see a copy of this page before his death on August 31. We mourn his passing.]

Vision and Tradition - a reflection
on Carmel-by-the-Sea's past

written in the 1980's by the late J.S. Holliday

"Americans are a peculiar people. They cannot read the writing on the wall until their backs are up against it." That lament-and warning-came from Adlai Stevenson in the midst of one of his political campaigns.

Citizens of Carmel-by-the-Sea should be thankful that through the decades since incorporation in 1916 there have been citizen organizations that have seen the writing on the wall-and these groups of residents prevented the kind of development and "progress" that have caused regrets and despair in other communities that now realize they have lost, little by little, the values and assets once shared by residents and merchants alike.

Reflecting on this record of citizen involvement and leadership, Harold Gilliam in his acclaimed book Creating Carmel wrote, "Probably nowhere else so early and with such vigor have residents fought for the preservation of their community. The generations-long struggle to maintain a sanctuary from bulldozers of 'progress' ... is both a unique phenomenon and a microcosm of some of the conflicts taking place in other American communities as the 20th century draws to a close."

Consider that in 1922 when a resort hotel was being planned for the beach at the foot of Ocean Avenue, it took the efforts of a citizens' group known as The Committee of 40 to pressure the city government to purchase the dunes and beach and thus save Carmel beach from the commercial exploitation that has afflicted most other beaches adjacent to urban areas.

Similarly in 1938 it was the election of three councilmen identified as representing "the art element" that produced an ordinance to prohibit continuance of cars parking between the trees down the middle of Ocean Avenue. Following angry accusations and a court fight, this reform prevailed, making possible the stone walls, tall trees and landscaping that grace Ocean Avenue today.

Through the decades, foresight has aroused opposition: when prohibition of billboards, outdoor electric signs and displays overhanging sidewalks was achieved; when motel owners were required to provide off-street parking. And in the mid-1950's when a plan was proposed to close Ocean Avenue to automobiles, to create a European-style promenade with sidewalk cafes and elegant shops. This vision was judged by its opponents as too drastic. Defeated, the concept might well be wished for by everyone today, when it is too late. Later, citizen outrage thwarted a plan to sell or convert our famed Forest Theater into a parking area for city-owned vehicles.

So it has been, decade by decade, residents and far-sighted business people organizing to protect their village from plans that would shape the future, that would bring more cars, more buses, more intensified development in commercial and residential areas. Less and less Carmel-by-the-Sea.

That concern, that reading the writing on the wall, has motivated residents to organize, from the Committee of 40 through the effort known as Old Carmel to the Northeast Neighbors Association and the Carmel Residents Association in the 1980's. These altruistic organizations have promoted long-term values vs. short-term gains and thereby have slowed and constrained the forces of overcommercialization. They have sought to fulfill Robinson Jeffers' admonition-that we should strive "to keep Carmel tolerably simple, quiet and tree-protected, in spite of progress." Why ignore Jeffers or our other literary heroes who have been so vital to the image of this place? We seek to exploit their fame, why not value their vision?

In 1987 the Northeast Neighbors Association mounted a petition drive that revealed the extent of opposition to development of a high-density apartment-condominium complex at the site of the Hayward Lumber Company. Foreseeing what such a big-city structure would do to our town, the Northeast Neighbors and their allies battled the development interests-and prevailed. As we admire Vista Lobos Park today we should recall what would be looming over us from that elevation if the Northeast Neighbors had not foreseen the danger.

It was also during the late 80's that another group of residents realized the dangers facing Carmel-by-the-Sea. In April, 1987, the Carmel Residents Association was founded and one of its first engagements involved organizing opposition to the proposed sale of parts of Mission Trails Park. The plan was defeated, preserving one of our most vital natural assets-a buffer against the inexorable pressures of outside development.

With its membership of over 500 residents of Carmel-by-the-Sea and its immediate "sphere of influence," the Carmel Residents Association has taken the lead in civic and social activities designed to heighten citizen awareness and participation. One of the most prominent of these civic programs has been the Beach Cleanup, which involves scores of volunteers who scour the Carmel beach to remove debris and charcoal at a time when city resources are limited.

Since Frank Devendorf founded this place we still call a village, residents at critical times have prevented the kind of development that has spread like an economic blight up and down our coast. Carmel-by-the-Sea remains a place to be admired and envied because we have had people who could read the writing on the wall and turn that warning into a battle cry to rally support and altruistic endeavor.

President's Message
Our twentieth year begins

by Roberta Miller

Welcome to 2006-2007 -- our twentieth anniversary year! Your board has been busy this summer. Our annual retreat helped to solidify our goals and focus for the coming year. We have been planning programs, special events and some fun-packed outings. The Carmel Residents Association is a diverse organization and the board is trying to respond to as many needs and interests as possible. We take our responsibilities seriously and will do the very best we can with energy, enthusiasm and a large dose of humor.

As your new president, I must confess to some anxious moments realizing the multitude of opportunities we have to do good work. In sharing my feeling with my husband, Monte, he said, "Oh, don't worry! If you do nothing at all, the organization will still run smoothly. Everybody knows what needs to be done." So, as I began to prepare, I quickly became aware of the board's amazing list of accomplishments. This group not only contributes to making the Carmel Residents Association a vital part of our community, but displays the same commitment to other civic activities as well.

Linda Anderson, a past president, continues each month to write the best newsletter in town, attends City Council meetings and volunteers for Friends of Carmel Forest and the Beach Cleanup. Suzanne Arnold, board vice president, co-chairs the CRA Social Committee which plans our outings, helps with the annual July 4th city barbecue and Dines Out. She also finds time to lead hikes and participate in other community organizations. Nancy Collins attends Design Review Board meetings and volunteers for Animal Friends Rescue Project, St. Bernards and PacRep Theater. Mary Condry, a past president, gave our members a fascinating tour of the Carmel Mission where she, with husband Bob, was instrumental in setting up the docent program. She is active in the Cottage Society and St. Bernards and works as a tour guide for local destination management companies. Betty Dalsemer, a new board member, serves on the Issues Committee, is an 11-year volunteer guide at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, and a board member of Chamber Music Monterey Bay. New board member Vinz Koller, director of training and technical assistance for Social Policy Research Associates, is in demand as a trainer and facilitator on workforce development-related topics for the U.S. Department of Labor and for state and local agencies. He has sung in the Bach Festival chorus for years. Frankie Laney, secretary, organizes outings and plans CRA's successful Festival of Artists, Writers and Musicians. An accomplished artist, she is a member of the Carmel Art Association, president of the board of the Carl Cherry Center for the Arts and active in St. Bernards. Gene McFarland is a major creative force as co-chair of the Social Committee, chair of the July 4th barbecue and is committed to actively building bridges between community organizations. Sherry Shollenbarger, immediate past president, is a member of the Issues Committee, represents CRA on the city's Economic Development Committee and is on the board of All Saints School. Dick Stiles, treasurer, works on the July 4th barbecue and with other local community groups and still manages to sneak in golf games with his wife, Barbara. Jonnie Webb, corresponding secretary, volunteers at CHOMP and serves on the Carmel Public Library Foundation board. Beth Wright, our historian and archivist, also a past president, is working on the CRA's 20th Anniversary Committee and is active in other community organizations.

Somebody made the observation that, "The achievements of an organization are the result of the combined effort of each individual." This is where you as a member can help. We have a challenge. Every community is experiencing change, and Carmel is no exception. We need you to become part of our positive attempts to build community consensus and begin to work more effectively with other non-profit organizations to preserve and reinforce the features that give the village its unique character and culture.

As president, I am so proud to be a part of the Carmel Residents Association. For almost 20 years now, our organization has remained steadfast in its vision, determination and desire to cherish, protect and preserve our natural beauty, unique character, ambiance and historic heritage. The train left the station many years ago and its journey continues forward, with some new passengers, now on our watch. Together, we are the "keepers of the flame." So let's get ready, stoke those coals and blow our own horn!

CRA members join other community groups to keep Bates' art at Post Office

New budget helps the library and the forest

Our newsletter's May/June editorial outlined the priorities for the 2006/2007 budget presented to the City Council by the Carmel Residents Association board:

• Additional funds to restore normal hours of operation at the main branch and the children's library;
  
  
• Increased dollars dedicated to reforestation of Carmel's urban forest; and
  
  
• Implementation of a plan to bring the Scout House up to Americans with Disability Act (ADA) standards.

We were pleased that when the City Council voted on June 22 to approve the $11,749,000 budget, it included $35,000 for additional library hours as well as $35,000 for tree planting and removal. No action was taken on the Scout House.

The addition of funds for more library hours was supported by Councilmembers Mike Cunningham, Erik Bethel and Gerard Rose. However, the hours will not be expanded until City Administrator Rich Guillen has conducted a study to determine when each branch should be open.

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Library loses two valued staff members

The Pacific Northwest has claimed two Carmel librarians. Gwen Sangster, children's librarian, has moved to Oregon and Denise Sallee, local history librarian, to Washington. A search is under way to replace them. Meanwhile, the children's library will maintain its hours and the local history room will be open on Tuesdays by appointment.

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An opportunity to support the Forest Theater

On Thursday, Oct. 12, from 6:30 to 9 p.m., the Forest Theater Guild will hold a gala benefit for Films in the Forest in the courtyard of Buon Giorno Café. Proceeds will be used to purchase a professional DVD projector and a new screen for the outdoor theater. Tickets at $35 per person include wine, food, music and a silent auction. Questions, call Guild and CRA member Megan Terry at 624-5544.

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Thanks, Public Works staff!

Many Monday mornings you can find Public Works Superintendent Stu Ross and Maintenance Worker Matt Feisthamel on Carmel Beach filling enormous plastic bags with weekend litter. And, after the monthly Carmel Residents Association Beach Cleanup, Stu and his crew use the dune buggy to haul up the heavy orange bags our volunteers fill with charcoal from illegal fire pits-a welcome change for those who have had to drag bags up to the parking area! On behalf of all of our cleanup workers, thanks to Public Works for doing such a great job!

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Coastal Cleanup

Saturday Sept. 16

The September Beach Cleanup, headed by Kay and Harvey Kuffner, was held on Sept. 16 In conjunction with the statewide coastal cleanup.

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Remembering our history through photos

Then Congressman Leon Panetta reported to Carmel Residents Association members on events in Washington at the first Leon Panetta Day, held in July, 1989, at the Scout House. Later renamed U.S. Representative Day, the annual event continued with Sam Farr for several years after he was elected to Congress.

The late Peanuts creator Charles Schulz, at the invitation of his longtime friend Clayton Anderson, was featured at a CRA fund raiser at All Saints' Church in October, 1994. Schulz, left, stands by a drawing of Snoopy which he made on stage, later part of the silent auction. The sold-out event raised $26,698 for the Harrison Memorial Library, which is recognized by two inscriptions on the Maybeck Plaque on the wall in the main entrance to the library. Photographing Schulz in the foreground is Chuck Scardina.

Soledad Prison was the destination of a group of CRA members in August, 1991. Pictured outside Casa de Teresa Restaurant after the tour are, from left, Norine Chandler, Steve Brooks, Barbara Brooks, Steve Dolley, Clayton and Linda Anderson, the late Ben and Doris Heller, and Jacquelyn Smith. Steve Dolley described the day in the newsletter: "The Soledad facility is one of California's largest prisons. On the day of our visit it had 6,084 all-male inmates. Security is as tight as the E string on a guitar. During our two-hour tour we were escorted by the Assistant Warden, Lt. Starri Hairston, an engaging and informative lady. Other members of the capable staff of 1400 wore field green uniforms pressed to a razor's edge. Our immediate observation was that the facility was exceptionally well maintained. No wonder, they have a potential of six thousand janitors. The Lieutenant told us the main building contains seven wings of cells, each three stories high. In one of them, with 240 inmates, we saw a typical 6x9 foot cell. Originally designed for one person, overcrowding requires that each now house two. Lifers keep the cleanest cells, we were told. We saw some inmates housed in the former gym, with bunks stacked three tiers high ... All in all we were impressed with the enormity of the facility and the professionalism of the staff who manage a troublesome institution." Martha Dolley is not pictured and may have been the photographer.

In late 1999, when the long-time tradition of a wood-burning fire making patrons cozy at Harrison Memorial Library lapsed because the down-sized staff did not have the time to lay a fire each day, Chris Cromwell stepped in and organized a fund-raising effort to add a gas line and gas logs to the large fireplace in the library's main room. The Carmel Residents Association contributed $1,200 to the campaign and once again those who love to sit and read morning papers or their favorite books could enjoy a fire. Shirley Humann, then Carmel Residents Association president, left, Library Director Margaret Pelikan and Chris Cromwell are pictured above at a fire lighting and reception held to thank those who had donated to the fund. The new flickering flame can be seen at bottom right.

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New CRA Officers

The Carmel Residents Association Board of Directors has elected Roberta Miller president. She succeeds Sherry Shollenbarger, who served two terms.

Other officers are Suzanne Arnold, vice president, Frankie Laney, secretary, Dick Stiles, treasurer, and Jonnie Webb, corresponding secretary.

Roberta, a UCLA graduate and retired teacher, is a native Californian. She moved to Carmel-by-the-Sea with her husband Monte in 1998 and has been involved in community activities ever since. In addition, she manages to keep up with and enjoy her 13 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

READABLE READS

Marley & Me

Past, present and future dog owners should run, not walk, to Harrison Memorial Library to grab a copy of John Grogan's Marley & Me. (636.7- GRO) If you want to laugh uproariously and, yes, shed a few tears, this is your book. The antics of Marley, an enormous, loopy, joyful-but-crazy yellow Labrador Retriever are unforgettable as he frolics through life with the Grogan family.

Grogan, an award-winning journalist, is a pro at story telling and has a great sense of humor (which the owner of a dog like Marley would need). He has succeeded in capturing the essence of that special relationship between humans and their dogs.

Remember that your City Council is on T.V.

City Council meetings are taped and re-broadcast
Sundays, 8 a.m. - 12 noon on
KMST Channel 26