Columns & Contributors
« Previous EntriesThe other 13 candidates
An impressive group of 15 candidates applied for the two vacant positions on the PG City Council. All care for the city, and each has something to contribute. Many have said that they will consider running for the city council in November, 2010. Here’s a look at those candidates and what they said on their resumes. Watch this space when filings begin for the 2010 elections. We present them in the order they were presented to the city council, which was a random choice by the deputy city clerk and the city attorney.
Jonathan Wizard is a Pacific Grove firefighter. His stated objective in applying for the appointment to City council is “to become an effective and productive member of the city council and make a positive contribution that positively affects the residents, guests and employees of the city as well as the city as an entity. He graduated from Pacific Grove High school and has an AS in Fire Science, plus California State firefighter II certification and other related certificates. In his oral presentation, Wizard said he would like to see a “change in the way Pacific Grove does business.” He believes that younger, working people and new citizens are effectively disenfranchised and that a “younger representative” is needed on the city council. Read more…»
It’s Cuneo, Huitt
No coin flipping this time, but it took five roll call votes for the sitting councilmembers to finally seat Ken Cuneo and Robert Huitt to fill the vacancies left when Vicki Stilwell resigned and Carmelita Garcia was appointed mayor to fill Dan Cort’s position. And no wonder — there were 15 very qualified candidates, any one of whom would be an asset to the city. It took three rounds of nominations and votes to appoint Cuneo, and when the council appeared (on the fourth vote) unable to garner the four votes necessary to fill the vacancy left, they swore Cuneo in and added his vote. He promptly nominated two additional candidates — Dan Miller and Richard Ahart, both of whom ran unsuccessfully in the November, 2008 election with Cuneo — but when it came down to the vote, Cuneo went for Robert Huitt, as did the rest of the council. Huitt previously served on the council for eight years but was ‘term-limited’ out seven years ago.
Planning fee recovery: Community input is vital
Pacific Grove’s Community Development Department (CDD) set a goal of “preserving services through the economic storm,” meaning that, after large budget cuts, staff layoffs, contracting with other agencies, reducing staff by 43 percent and instituting voter-approved taxes, there is still a budget gap of $1.5 million.
One area being examined is the large general revenue subsidy for fee-based services that Pacific Grove has, particularly in the planning department. Staff estimates that 73 percent of the cost for service, on average, is borne by General Revenues – the public.
Staff, looking for ways to recover costs, reached out to the community for input. Read more…»
Loading zone on Lighthouse is going away
Parking on the north side of Lighthouse Avenue between 13th Street and 12th Street will soon be converted to 90-minute parking. Currently, it is a mixture of 90-minute parking, loading zones and 20-minute parking. Read more…»
New 4-way stop coming at Gibson and Fountain
At its July 14 meeting, the Traffic Safety Commission decided to ask staff undertake a study of the intersection of Fountain Avenue and Gibson Avenue. Gibson had previously been designated a through street from Eardley Avenue to Alder Street while traffic on cross streets, including Fountain Avenue, were required to stop at Gibson.
“A lot of times people (traveling on Fountain) think that you (traveling on Gibson) are coming to a stop,” said resident Karen Sheppard at that meeting. She also expressed concern for middle school students going home at the end of the day.
Conversely, there was also testimony that traffic on Gibson does, in fact, stop as if there were already a stop sign there.
Staff took traffic counts, a peak-hour hand count and an accident analysis. They noted that the presence of many senior citizens from Canterbury Woods and Forest Hill Manor, the presence of a medical office and the fact that the area is a walking route for students from Robert Down and Pacific Grove Middle School result in higher than expected vehicle traffic and pedestrian traffic at the intersection.
The installation of four-way stop signs at the intersection was approved on the consent agenda at the city council’s September 16 meeting.
They’re on their way
Jack Beigle was the first to report a Monarch sighting in Pacific Grove — a single “scout” seen last week.
“It would be interesting to know if the Monarchs sort of glide down a freeway route to the Sanctuary, or if it is a random distribution of arrival all over town” said Helen Johnson of Monarch Alert.
Anyone spotting a Monarch in Pacific Grove over the next few weeks is urged to call Monarch Alert at 1-877-7740, Mailbox 7. If the butterfly is tagged, the tag number would be helpful but it is not vital. Or spotters may call Cedar Street Times at 831-324-4742. We’d like to know where it was seen.
Monarchs were seen last week in coastal Marin as well. There were five sightings in one day at Muir Beach and three in the Marin Headlands.
Butterfly bond renewed
Debt service on the 1990 Butterfly Habitat Bonds has come up again, and the City Council voted unanimously to renew the special property tax with a levy of .004 percent on assessed value.
Based on a median assessed valuation of about $260,000, a property in Pacific Grove would pay $10.40 per year at that rate.
The funds can only be spent on debt service of the Butterfly Habitat Bonds, which were issued in 1990 to acquire and rehabilitate the Monarch Sanctuary.
Police log
A good son?
The word was that a young man from Pacific Grove had acted poorly toward his mother. The subject had struck mom in the head, causing injury. After a PGPD officer arrived and gave the subject an order, the young man refused to comply. Eventually, a jolt of pepper spray was required to get the subject in line. The young man was then transported to Monterey County Jail where he is being held in lieu of bail. Whether mom would be interested in posting bail is questionable.
Faulty alarm?
PGPD responded to a business alarm. After arrival on site, officers toured the area, inspected the building, and found … nothing. They reported the incident as a false alarm. And then came a second alert. Better to respond and be right than to not respond and be wrong. Off went the officers, with the same results. Asking to have the alarm repaired may be next on their list.
Need to listen while we play
A mother called PGPD in behalf of her daughter. It seemed that the family car had been broken into during the night. The daughter was most concerned about what had been stolen. It was the young lady’s iPod. In another break-in, the victims also reported a theft. This time is was a Nintendo.
Need more security?
A woman called who identified herself as a full-time care provider. She works for a disabled individual who is confined to a wheelchair. The provider pulled on an apron and prepared to fix dinner. She lit a fire, and then stepped out of the kitchen for a minute. While she was absent, the kitchen filled with smoke and an obnoxious smell. She called the police. Working with the caretaker, officers discovered that chili peppers had been placed on and around the burners. The provider was as surprised as were the officers. PGPD offered the provider suggestions for improving home security.
We were just talking … again!
PGPD responded to reports of a quarrel taking place between a man and woman who are married. The man was located standing on a corner near the given address. He said he had left his home to get away from his wife. But he also said that the couple had just been talking, and their dispute had been only verbal, a heated discussion of work-related problems and stress. After being contacted, the wife agreed. She admitted having had a drink, but was not obviously intoxicated. The couple admitted to having experienced a similar incident, several years ago.
Ladies only
A female caller complained about a male “Peeping Tom” who had been standing outside her apartment at about four o’clock that morning watching while the woman used the toilet. She advised police that another apartment dweller had experienced the same thing. After contacting a knowing informant, police learned that all residents in the apartment complex are female.
All’s well that ends well
A mother telephoned PGPD to advise that she was very worried. Her son, who was on probation for another matter, had not returned before the hour set by terms of his release. Later, mom called again. Everything was okay. The lad had returned home … just a little late.
Gone missing
A juvenile requested and was granted permission to participate in a party. The youngster was dropped off at Forest Grove School at about 11:30 a.m. Unfortunately, the lad failed to return home at the appointed hour. He is still missing. He whereabouts are unknown.
On the lam
Another mother reported that her son had run away from home. She also reported that the boy was out later than the terms of his probation allowed.
Make certain adult has not been drinking, too?
A concerned citizen reported that a male subject had been at an Ocean View address, drinking. In spite of being intoxicated, the subject departed on foot. While searching the area, the subject was found. He was too drunk to care for himself. Officers transported him to the station where he was held until a sober adult could be found to take custody.
Too many pills
A husband telephoned to report that he was concerned about his wife. She had taken too many prescription pills and was now lying on the floor, semi-conscious. Officers summoned AMR to take the subject to CHOMP for treatment and mental evaluation.
Want the entire building mailed?
Vandals got busy the other night. They decorated the side of the U. S. Post Office with graffiti that read: “Donkeys for Life!” No stamps were attached.
Was it your imagination?
A woman from a residential home telephoned PGPD and stated that she had been alarmed after hearing two loud noises that might have been gunshots. Then she reported seeing a male, about 50 years of age, dressed in blue jeans, a blue shirt, and white tennis shoes. She said the man appeared to be “retarded.” A search of the area revealed nothing. Staff at the home said no one had been “missing” right then, nor was there a resident who answered the woman’s description.
Didn’t want to hear it
Officers were summoned to Prescott Lane to check on a verbal domestic dispute in progress. Rather than communicate with police, the male half of the dispute turned and walked away. The subject had to be physically restrained so that the investigation could be finished.
Retrospective
When we set out to start a weekly newspaper, we did it because we believe that Pacific Grove needs and wants an unbiased, locally-run, Pacific Grove-oriented newspaper. We weren’t running for City Council, we weren’t backed by anyone who was; we just wanted to provide Pacific Grove with straight news, photos, and events coverage. We didn’t reckon on an economic meltdown, either locally or on a national level, but we’ve been able to keep our heads above water.
Cedar Street Times has been very well received. We have more than doubled our original press run and we have picked up a number of subscribers to our email version. We have a number of contributors, regular and not-so-regular, who offer us news of interest to the city’s population of all ages and interests.
We’re pleased to offer a regular “Green Page” on ecology and nature issues and a regular page on arts events. We have provided, joyously, space for student poets, writers and photographers. We have reported on every City Council meeting and many committee meetings. We’ve offered profiles of local businesses and reviews of restaurants, plus regular food columns on cooking. We responded to requests for a police log, and we happily provide a look in Pacific Grove’s past on a weekly basis. We’ve offered some outstanding photo essays, if we do say so ourselves.
We’re proud of what we’ve done and how far we’ve come, and we look forward to a long and . . . is “interesting” the word we want? . . . tenure.
The following are examples of the stories we covered during our first six months, though this is certainly not the entire gamut. We hope you will join us in our future endeavors.
PG birders: Raptors on view locally
Fortunately, Pagrovians do not have to take lengthy or expensive trips to see multiple species of birds. I combine my birding with my photography walks in our Marine Sanctuary in P.G., and Spanish Bay. Raptors are among my favorite birds, and for those of you who can turn your head away from our splendid beach and Ocean and look inland, there are several raptor species of note which you may see. Of course, being in the right place at the right time is happenstance too. Birds will not be waving their wings at you, in anticipation of your visit; some days are more productive than others.
A pair of Red Shouldered Hawks may be seen fairly frequently, as they perch at lower levels in shrubs and trees, and they have three color phases, all of which are beautiful. Their larger Buteo cousin is the Red Tailed Hawk, which some of you may be familiar with. Red-tails soar more than the smaller red shouldered hawks do, but often can be spotted perched in trees near Pt. Joe. Another raptor of beauty is the White-Tailed Kite of which there are at least one or possibly two pairs. This predominantly white (crow sized) raptor has black on its wing shoulders ( it once was called the black shouldered kite). Almost the size of the Red-shouldered hawk, but more streamlined, it has black wing plumage, and an almost translucent white tail. Capable of hovering high up in the air like a helicopter, it can remain stationary as it searches for suitable rodents to prey upon. When seen with back lighting from the sun shining on its back as it hovers, it is a most beautiful bird to see. I have watched it plummet down and seize a gopher fat and large enough to make me wonder if it could get airborne carrying its prey. It is one of my favorites to photograph and “capture on slide film” as are the other two species.
Unlike the other two species, the kite plucks most of the fur from its prey before consuming it. Clamorous crows, in groups, frequently like to dive bomb kites and the other hawks, in the hope of chasing them from their perch, and hopefully getting the raptor to drop its prey. I witnessed an encounter of this type for 20 minutes before the very likely exasperated Kite raised one foot off its perch and held it with talons extended at the crows. The crows got the message and immediately veered off and away. A Coopers hawk, a fast flying accipitor, gave me the pleasure of photographing it, after it chased a frightened male quail into my picture window. The quail hit my window with a resounding thud and fell to the ground, but escaped the predator; however the Coopers hawk perched in one of my juniper trees as it scanned the area where the quail had fallen, and even hopped down to peer into the small crawl space where the quail had scrambled, before it flew off. It was a juvenile Coopers, based upon its eye (iris) color, but it was a beauty. The quail might not have been so lucky had the Coopers hawk been a more experienced adult. This sighting occurred when I was a resident of Carmel Valley, where quail were quite plentiful.
A most thrilling encounter was seeing a Peregrine Falcon flying rapidly at low altitude, and actually zooming over the Bay, before it banked like a jet fighter, and turned landward at great speed. Luckily I had my camera set at 1/4000th of a second and took several slides of it, before it was out of sight and telephoto range.
Another raptor, the American Kestrel, is the smallest member of the falcon family. This pretty little robin sized “Beau Brummel” of a tiny hawk has light and airy wing beats and is also capable of hovering. It feeds upon grasshoppers, and small mice, or other small rodents. The male is the gaudiest little fellow, with a chestnut/rufous-colored back and blue on the upper side of his primary wing feathers, with a boldly marked white face marked with dark feathers resembling sideburns, and more short dark feathers near the base of his beak as if he had a drooping moustache. This Kestrel has a habit of pumping his tail when perched. The females are more subdued in color, as are the immatures. Decades ago, he was also known as the sparrow hawk.
Watch for migrating species
As autumn is almost upon us, the migration season is about to begin. Many of the song birds such as the warblers will be passing through here in the weeks to follow.
My favorites among these Northern breeding birds are the Townsend’s Warbler, who will over winter here wherever pines and dense conifers afford them suitable cover. Primarily insectivorous, these perky little guys are delightful to watch as they dart around in their boldly striped yellow and black striped plumage, with the males having a black throat patch like an ascot, and olive colored feathering on their backs, and on the faces of the females. They often will come down from shrubs to search for insects on lawns, along with another small warbler, the Yellow Rumped Warbler, which is minimally larger. The Yellow-rumped Warbler is often easier to see, as it will frequent more exposed shrubbery; however it too will hunt for insects on lawns in the company of the Townsend’s Warbler. The Yellow- rumped Warbler will often perch on tall shrubs from where it will pursue flying insects. Its plumage is less flashy than the Townsend’s Warbler, but the bright yellow rump patch color is unmistakable, and it also has a small narrow yellow sash on its flanks. Unlike the Townsend’s Warbler, it is less dependent upon dense conifers for nesting sites and cover, however it will inhabit in willow thickets and similar sized shrubs in more open habitat.
Among the more familiar wintering birds will be the chicadees, nuthatches, and many other species, including waterfowl which will be discussed next time.
News from 1909
Unknown man commits suicide
An unknown man walked into Frank Pierce’s hardware shop at about noon today. After looking around the premises the man asked to be shown revolvers. Pierce placed the weapons upon the counter for inspection. Alongside each pistol a few of its appropriate bullets were displayed. While the fellow was inspecting the guns and ammunition, another customer entered the little shop. After this customer stated that he was in a “big hurry,” Pierce excused himself and stepped away to see what he could do to help out.
While Pierce’s back was turned, the first customer slipped a cartridge into one of the revolvers. He then lifted the weapon to his head, and pulled the trigger. The shot was dead-on, but failed to immediately end the man’s life. In spite of the services of a physician, the victim clung precariously to life for only about thirty minutes. He did not regain consciousness.
The constable is requesting help in identifying the deceased. He is described as smooth shaven, about five-feet nine, and of slender build. He appears to have been about thirty-five years of age, and was neatly dressed in a brown-check suit.
In the absence of the coroner, Justice Ernest Michaels conducted an inquest this afternoon, but the findings of the jury were to be released too late for this issue of the Pacific Grove Review.
Anyone with knowledge of this tragedy is encouraged to contact the newspaper office.
Lincoln stamps at post office
Postmaster R. Stansbury informs the Review that he has just received a consignment of 10,000 Lincoln anniversary stamps. Those who desire to own these stamps as souvenirs of the 40th anniversary of the martyred President should secure them at once. Stansbury promised that his supply will not last long.
Felder completes perilous trip in Alaska
Pacific Grove native J. W. Felder has just returned home from his lonely jaunt through the badlands of Alaska. His overland trip required fifty-six days through the northland wilds in winter. Felder says that he “traveled a trail of his own making.” During the expedition, Felder lost his supplies and he nearly starved after his food gave out. Survival was obtained by killing several of his dogs for food.
Felder is a local businessman and a charter member of the Lodge of Elks. He journeyed to Alaska in the interest of a fur-trading company controlled by San Francisco capital.
Felder will speak about his experience at an upcoming assembly to be held at St. Mary’s by the Sea.
Harry Winston to aid of museum
Harry Winston, Pacific Grove, has loaned his valuable collection of Indian relics and curios to the Museum Association of his hometown, the Grove. He also donated a number of valuable articles. Winston says the reason is mostly practical because he is about to relocate from here to Berkeley.
Among the items are the following: Chinese adding machine, Alaskan sturgeon hook, three feathered arrows, knife sheath from Nebraska, buffalo horns, mummy cloth, copper powder flask, and an old, American-army sword.
Local millionaire causes arrests
James Murray, a local millionaire who recently discovered what he believed to be a conspiracy to defraud him out of more than a half million dollars by means of papers forged in his name, is now in possession of evidence which he says will enable him to reveal and punish the conspirators. Murray has sworn out a warrant for the arrest of Frederick Gignor, who has confessed to doing the forgery work, and co-conspirators.
Since he discovered the forged papers, Murray has had a corps of private detectives working on the case, shadowing Signor and his associates with a view of ascertaining who were the parties of the conspiracy. Later, Murray was able to obtain possession of the forged documents whereupon he was obliged to threaten drastic measures.
The following is a list of the forgeries: four one-day notes dated August 22, 1908, for $100,000 each made payable to Frederick Signor; one sight draft for $50,000 made payable to Tyler Henshaw; and various notes to various payees drawn on the First National Bank of Chicago.
Murray has expressed his belief that Signor was the figurehead of a conspiracy that had for its object the holding of various financial documents until Murray’s death, in which event it might thereafter be impossible to detect that they were forgeries.
About town …
ü The burnt “Caramel and Moca” cakes from the Winston’s bakery are absolutely delicious. Try one and see how you like it. We promise you will return for another.
ü Get spectacles that are right in fit, quality, and price from W. H. Hare Optical Company.
ü Dr. DeWitt’s Carbolized Witch Hazel Salve is especially good for piles. Sold by Long & Gretter.
ü The Jackson Bros & Campbell Market has a goodly supply of pie fruits, put up in one-gallon tins.
Police log up to 08-21-09
Mother is upset
A mom telephoned PGPD to report that her 18-year-old daughter had come home … very intoxicated. An officer interviewed the young lady. She indicated that she had been drinking vodka with an acquaintance. She said her companion supplied her with the alcohol. She also indicated that about a month ago she had completed a rehab program where she was being treated for an oxycontin addiction. Mom wanted the incident documented by police.
Just doing what I was told
An officer was dispatched to look into a civil dispute. A man claimed that he had been involved in an on-going dispute with a former landlady. The two had gone to court. Later, he alleged, the court instructed the man to contact his landlady and request that the money involved in the argument be returned. The man did so. The landlady asked him if he was harassing her. The man said “no.” He wanted the case documented in case the landlady again accused him of harassment.
Child left in a car
An officer was dispatched to a site near Trader Joe’s where a child was reported locked in a car for about thirty minutes, crying. The officer made contact and talked the child into unlocking a car door. After being questioned, the child indicated that her mother was somewhere inside the store (Trader Joe’s). Mom was found. She advised that her daughter had been asleep. When the mother woke the child up and asked her if she
wanted to go shopping, the child refused.
86′d
An officer was dispatched to Lattitudes to check on a report of a patron who had eaten, then checked out without paying. The officer learned that the customer had left some personal belongings behind. Among the property was a credit card. The officer was familiar with the name because the department had earlier contacts with the woman. The owner refused to press charges because the bill was only for $14.15. The woman was advised not to return to Lattitudes.
Controlled substance
A suspect was placed under arrest for being in possession of methamphetamine. He was also wanted on the basis of previous warrants.
Ring is gone
A complainant reported the theft of a ring from her home. The ring is valued at $2,500. The complainant stated that her house was being taken care of by an 18-year-old who had invited a friend inside to keep her company. The ring was later found to be missing, but the owner noticed nothing else gone. The complainant said that she wished no prosecution at this time, but did want to file a report in case something else turns up gone.
Drug to be destroyed
A suspicious substance was turned in to PGPD by a complainant who said he suspected his find was composed of an illegal substance. An evaluation determined that it was probably marijuana, contained in two plastic sandwich bags, with rolling papers. The items were weighed, photographed, and filed away for later destruction.
Identity theft?
A woman notified PGPD of a possible fraud involving a credit card. She stated that representatives of Capital One had called to advise her of irregular purchases appearing on her charge card. The woman said that was most unusual. She didn’t have a Capital One card.
Not a real job
A PG woman thought she had a job as a secret shopper. Then she was given a check for $3,400, told to deposit the money, and send part of it back to the company. She did so, and was later informed that the check had been bogus. The woman estimates that she is now $2,000 in arrears.
Neighbor finds man dead
An informant telephoned police to report that a man had fallen and seemed not to be responding. He indicated that the subject, a neighbor, was also cold to the touch. Fire and AMR responded, but found that the patient was deceased. The Coroner determined the death to be due to natural causes.
Watermelon festivals abound in August
If you can’t find one near you, stage your own.
August is the month for watermelon festivals throughout the United States. Check for a festival in your area but if one isn’t available, put on your own in your backyard or in a park. What could be better than an al fresco summer barbeque or picnic including ice cold, juicy watermelon? Invite friends and neighbors and enjoy!
Contract with Monterey is a done deal
In the face of burgeoning costs for a preferred in-house model, the City of Pacific Grove will instead contract with the city of Monterey for building services
“This model will cost approximately $150,000 less than an in-house model,” said Jim Becklenberg, Director of Management and Budget. He also indicated in his staff report that a contract service model such as the one be proposed following with the City of Monterey would afford Pacific Grove more flexibility and take less time to implement than would an in-house model.
Another factor in the decision was the need to provide continued customer service at a level that Pacific Grove’s people have come to expect. The current, interim model uses a contract with Monterey for Chief Building Official services. Monterey also provides plan check services. Building inspection services are provided with an outside company, Precision Inspection company, Inc. City staff performs application intake duties, while every aspect is overseen by the City’s Chief Planner.
Back in April, the City Council was shown proposals for contract services and opted to accept the proposal from the City of Monterey while continuing the interim plan until now. Becklenberg told the Council that he and staff are confident that Monterey will provide the full range of services requested in Pacific Grove’ request for proposals, and in fact will improve on some areas.
Monterey will:
- Staff the building counter at Pacific Grove City Hall with certified building technicians/inspectors from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, Monday through Friday.
- Provide service at Monterey city Hall building counter from 1:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
- Chief Building Official will be provided an office and work from Pacific Grove City Hall as needed.
- Plan check will take place at Monterey City Hall.
- Pacific Grove performance standards will be met for plan check and building inspection.
- Pacific Grove’s trained building inspector will become Monterey’s building inspector, offering a seamless transition.
- Monterey will receive 75 percent of related permit revenue with a minimum of an $84 plan review fee.
The agreement will be effective from September 1, 2009 through June 30, 2013 with a 180-day termination required. With revenues expected to be $364,000 for fiscal year 2009/10, and a total cost of $402,000 for the contract services, the cost to Pacific Grove would be $129,000 after subtracting $273,000, which represents the 75 percent of the permit revenue retained by Monterey.
Library tax heads for fall ballot
The Pacific Grove City Council has approved a resolution declaring a fiscal emergency requiring the urgent enactment of a special parcel tax to “preserve the public health, safety and welfare” of Pacific Grove - to wit, save the library. The legal declaration of the existence of a fiscal emergency is not required to place the special tax on the ballot but was directed by the city council at its July 15, 2009 meeting. The city council voted to call a special election.
The new parcel tax measure will read: PACIFIC GROVE LIBRARY FUNDING MEASURE (designation to be determined ) Shall the City of Pacific Grove Library Funding Measure be approved to enact an ordinance to create a Special Parcel Tax and limit that revenue to the sole purpose of maintaining and improving services at the Pacific Grove Public Library? Read more…»
The resignation: Cort and Council under fire
By Marge Ann Jameson and Cameron Douglas
Stunning his constituents - and most of the rest of the Monterey Peninsula — Mayor Dan Cort has offered to resign in the face of what appears to be a narrowly based recall effort on the part of some disgruntled citizens.
Many in Pacific Grove awakened Tuesday morning, August 4, to the mayor’s email, which stated that he himself had received an email from David Dilworth threatening that if Cort did not resign by 11:45 a.m. that morning, Dilworth would go forward with a recall campaign. Cort stated that he believes it was an attempt to keep him from voting on the Police Officer Association contract on the council agenda for the August 5, 2009 meeting. Read more…»
Latest Issue
Cost-cutting challenges Pacific Grove’s core services
Library removed from chopping block — for now
By Marge Jameson
Recommending a budget gap “target” of $2.5 million, Director of Management and Budget Jim Becklenberg warns that basic service assumptions in the City of Pacific Grove will be challenged in the coming years. Coming hard on the heels of staffing and cost reductions put in place in recent years, he and his staff are recommending a series of changes in service levels. Read more…»
Tom Pollacci To Stand Trial
Judge Russell Scott has ordered Thomas Ronald Pollacci to stand trial in Monterey County Superior Court on charges of forcible rape, rape of an unconscious person and sex with a person incapable of giving consent. On March 3 of this year, a warrant was issued for Pollacci, who turned himself in to Seaside police. He was released on $300,000 bail.
The preliminary hearing took place on the afternoon of July 10, eight days after Pollacci’s 50th birthday. Prosecutor Christina Johnson brought testimony from investigators and officers who served with the Pacific Grove Police Department at the time of the incident, which began to unfold in the early morning hours of April 21, 2008. Read more…»
PUC conducts hearings on water plans
By Joe Fabeets
The California Public Utilities Commission held four public hearings this week - two in Monterey and two in Seaside - with the purpose of gathering public input to help select the best plan for solving the Peninsula’s water shortages. The last of the hearings took place at the Oldemeyer Center with nearly 100 people in attendance.
Representatives of California-American Water and the Marina Coast Water District greeted the audience. “California-American Water’s objective in this process is to secure a new, reliable source of supply that’s sensitive to the environment and reasonably priced for the customers,” according to Cal-Am Vice President of Operations Tom Binowski. Read more…»
Unfunded TRAN leaves City to borrow from itself: Other options explored
Without sufficient reserves, Pacific Grove faces a cash-flow problem. In the long term, property tax revenues will enable the City to meet its financial obligations, but not until November. And the City has bills now, as it does every year.
Normally, the City applies to a pool of similar communities for a “Tax Revenue Anticipation Note,” or TRAN, which is a short-term loan, funded by selling the note on the open market, and which bridges gaps in cash flow. But this year, the TRANs did not sell on the open market, partly due to California’s reputation for fiscal crisis. While they are expected to sell in about 30 days, Pacific Grove will reach deficit levels by the end of July without interim funding.
Director of Management and Budget Jim Becklenberg presented options to the City Council at the July 15 meeting, and on a 4-2 vote the Council approved the option for internal borrowing - borrowing from other funds the City has on hand and which are not needed before tax revenue comes in. Read more…»
How did we get here?
Since adoption of what was thought to be a balanced City budget, Pacific Grove has been hit with the potential of State of California raids on revenues. While a budget deal was expected as early as Thursday, July 16, City officials believe they must plan on a “worst case scenario.”
The worst case includes a property tax takeaway of $451,000. While essentially a loan which would, by state law, have to be repaid within a three-year period, such a takeaway would still have a major impact on the City’s ability to provide services.
Gas Tax revenues in the amount of $240,000 per year are used by the City to pay a portion of street maintenance workers’ salaries and street lighting costs. If the State suspends these revenues for cities, which has been recommended by the Governor and the Legislative Analysts Office, those revenues would then be replaced by General Fund monies.
Prop 42 funds are also up for grabs by the State. TAMC, the Transportation Agency of Monterey County, passes through these sales tax on gasoline funds for which Pacific Grove’s allocation is $146,000, the loss of which would reduce the amount of maintenance that Pacific Grove could do.
CalPERS Board has changed its rate-setting policies. The City can now expect a 1 percent increase in FY 2001/12, 3 percent in FY 2012/13, and 5-6 percent in FY 2012/13. In the parlance used repeatedly by various speakers at the City Council meeting on July 15, this is merely “kicking the can down the street,” only to have to kick it again later.
As of July 15, 2009
A real miracle
A close patrol had been requested for a church in Pacific Grove. The reason? Unknown subjects had been observed trespassing. A PGPD officer found everything quiet, but certain parties were located in the rear of the church. All were in possession of alcohol. All were cited and released.
She can no longer call cabs
A woman called for a cab and asked to be picked up at her residence. Upon departing, she asked to be transported downtown. Then she changed her mind and asked, in sequence, for two or three other stops. Upon returning to her residence, the woman confessed that she had no money with which to pay the $32.50 owed. The cabbie thought about pressing charges, but said that he would not do that if the woman paid her bill next day. She agreed to drop the money off at PGPD. The police suggested that the cabbie contact his company and advise them of the situation. The company found that the woman had done this several times previously. They said that she would no longer be picked up.
Too darn much (hic) to drink!
While on patrol, a PGPD officer made a traffic stop in the 100 block of Ocean Avenue. The errant driver appeared to be a bit intoxicated. She was taken to CHOMP where her blood was tested. The BAC (alcohol in blood) measured .134%.
Darn mischief makers
An individual contacted PGPD about car he had parked on Junipero. An unknown someone had damaged the front portion of the auto by using a sharp object. There is no suspect information.
Value of a Medical Alert bracelet
PGPD was asked to make a welfare check in behalf of a woman walking on Lighthouse Avenue. After an officer arrived, he found the woman confused and unaware of where she lived. She was wearing a med-bracelet, however. A phone number was inscribed on the bracelet. Her daughter, who answered the phone call, told the officer which PG motel the woman was staying at with her husband. After being medically checked, the woman was turned over to the care of her husband.
Someone did it
A woman notified police that someone had entered her home via a kitchen window, stole her purse (which was on the table), and exited by a sliding glass door. This theft occurred at night and the woman was sleeping. However, she thinks she vaguely recalls seeing the shine of a flashlight. She could provide no additional information.
Ouch, that hurts!
A burglary victim telephoned to report the break-in of a vehicle parked on Ocean View Blvd. The complainant stated that among other items, a briefcase was stolen. Inside the briefcase? Cash in the amount of $4,000.
Maybe the whale grabbed it
Someone left a purse, a camera, and an iPod near the Pacific Grove Natural Museum where Sandy the Whale stands guard. A careful check revealed a phone number. The goods belonged to an out-of-town juvenile. The officer left a message saying the goodies had been grabbed and were being held at the police station. Sandy the Whale was alleged blameless.
It’s only a few crumbs
An informant telephoned PGPD to advise of someone feeding the birds. Such activity is, in truth, illegal in Pacific Grove (see municipal code 10.10.010, wild life feeding). However, police discovered that the act may have been a bit more personal than it may have appeared. The two people involved have a lengthy history of being at arms length.
Well, I tried
An officer was dispatched to an address on Arkwright Court to check on a possible attempt at suicide. Discovered was a woman who had ingested large numbers of prescription pills that had been washed down with prodigious amounts of alcohol. She was transported to Natividad Medical Center for help.
Ransford is no race track
A dad and his daughter, two years of age, were out for a stroll. On Ransford, a gray 1990’s Honda sped up with its horn honking. The driver yelled: “Keep your kid out of the street.” This frightened the daughter who began to cry. The complainant requested a close watch for vehicles speeding on Ransford.
She’s not really mean
A woman contacted police to complain about physical abuse. The woman claimed that her mom had struck her several times. There may have been a reason, however. Mom is suffering from Alzheimer’s and she sometimes refuses to take prescribed medications.
It’s a real charge
A credit card issuer called a Pacific Grove man to inquire if he had really wanted to make several odd purchases. The man said that he did not, and had not. An investigation revealed that his credit card was missing. He believes he may have dropped it in the Save Mart parking lot. No other information is available.
Monterey projects refund of fire department costs: Reduction of charges also likely in future
Monterey City Manager Fred Meurer has advised Pacific Grove’s Interim City Manager Charlene Wiseman that Monterey will likely refund a portion of Pacific Grove’s 2008-09 payments for fire protection because of cost savings that the Monterey Fire Department was able to achieve in fiscal year 2008-09. Meurer advises that the amount may be as much as $100,000, and that more accurate numbers will be available next month, in august.
In addition, Meurer states that there will be a reduction of $167,800 in the charges to Pacific Grove for fiscal year 2009-10 as a result of cost savings efforts made in Monterey and Pacific Grove, and he has directed his staff to reduce the monthly charges Pacific Grove pays as a result.
He is also projecting a reduction of $281,000 in charges for fiscal year 2010-11, partly as a result of recognition that Pacific Grove’s reserve fire apparatus have been used “disproportionately” to assist Monterey while Monterey suffers mechanical problems with their own fire apparatus. Monterey anticipates that it will need Pacific Grove’s reserve equipment for the better part of a year while they await the building and equipping of a new fire engine.
A fire engine can cost from $50,000 to more than $750,000. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has compiled guidelines for apparatus design based upon review of the anticipated hazards and geographical terrain of the area the fire department will service, as well as other variables. Other factors may include ease of operation response speed, equipment storage and equipment deployment.
The manufacture of a fire engine remains a custom, almost one-of-a-kind operation. Typically, a group of workers is assigned to the fabrication of the body and assembly of the truck frame. A separate group performs body finishing, then the apparatus is wired, equipped, and tested by a third, or “equipment,” group.
Green Building Starts at Home: Max Perelman’s, to be exact
By Cameron Douglas
At a time that many see as a financial downturn, there are also many who see nothing but opportunity for long-term growth through a commitment to the environment. Green building, graywater irrigation, storm water reclamation, improved forest management, lower carbon footprint, solar power, wind power and incentives for green industry are terms we are going to hear more and more. On the Monterey Peninsula, a grass-roots movement is pushing for our area to lead the way in sustainable living. One of those dedicated individuals lives in Pacific Grove. His name is Max Perelman.
For a young man, Max Perelman has a long list of titles: LEED-accredited professional; MBA; graduate student; member of the Pacific Grove Planning Commission; president of American Environmental & Agricultural, Inc.; husband and dad. Read more…»
Are we saving the environment for people and wildlife?
Some of the most fascinating landscapes I encountered were in southern Utah.
Family members had regaled me with the unique features of the landscapes in Capital Reef National Park decades ago, when it was still classified as a National Monument. I arranged a trip there, and also to the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in mid October.
Whirling snow greeted my arrival, although I had noted the scudding cloud formations on my drive there. I stayed at the only ranch located within the Monument, owned by some great folks, Lurt and Alice Knee.
The first few days I did my birding from the back of their Arabian mare, and also took many slides of the wonderful sandstone rock formations and enjoyed viewing the cake like layers of reddish brown Navaho sandstone alternating with the greenish Chinle sandstone layers and intermediate shades of buff and cream sandstone.
Lurt Knee’s delightful weimaraner dog Smokey, virtually acted as a guide in the wilder areas, which were easy to get lost in; but Smokey led the way back always.
From Capitol Reef, I went on to the Grand Staircase -Escalante National Monument.
To see Dippers again, those songbirds which can dive into turbulent running streams or rivers, and walk on the bottom, had been a compulsion of mine. Dippers are 7- 1/2 inch long, plump, short tailed, long legged, charcoal gray birds that feed on aquatic insects and tiny fish which they catch in swift running waters . They hold their breath longer than seems possible for such small songbirds, and they never emerge from the water where you expect them to. My rancher hosts in Capitol Reef suggested that I try the Paria River Canyon, in the Monument as the most likely place to see Dippers since the water level was high enough that year.
Arriving at the Paria River Canyon, I encountered a group of ORV [Off-Road-Vehicle] drivers who seemed to be either drunk and downright reckless, or both. Predominantly young, but including many others much older, they seemed annoyed over the fact that I guided my rental jeep carefully around rocks and any water filled depressions on the canyon floor. They deliberately drove into and out of the riparian habitat so the rear wheels of their vehicles hurled broken branches, mud and rocks helter skelter. They crowded my jeep, trying to force me into the river. I had no option but to hug a sheer wall of the canyon, until these crazies moved on.
Any Dippers that might have been further upstream would have quickly departed as soon as these noisy, water-churning, destructive vehicles approached nearby.. Reluctantly, I turned back, and decided to report this illegal activity to the BLM.
The BLM official I spoke to was cordial enough, if extremely nervous. Glancing around to see if any of his co-workers were within earshot, he suggested we get some coffee, then selecting a small room, started to question me, to determine if I was a member of any special organization. I showed him some ID and told him that I really was there for some wildlife and landscape photography; but wanted to report my harassment from the ORV group. His responses were guarded until I informed him that I was a career environmentalist, and favored protections for endangered wildlife, including their habitats. When I mentioned the destructive roiling up of the riparian habitat by these ORV drivers, he nodded in agreement , and then very softly told me that he was a member of Ducks Unlimited, the Izaak Walton League; and none of his co-workers knew that. He also pointed out that his job would be terminated immediately, if his superiors in the BLM found out about his secret affiliations. He went on to tell me that the large groups of ORV members and the retailers of the ORV’s , were lobbying to convert faint deer trails and hikers’ tracks in roadless areas ( the R.S. 2477 maps ) into county roads; and they had the full support of of the Kane County Commissioners, so that it would open more forested wildlands to ORV usage.
Very recently I discovered that ORV proponents already had an existing 1000 miles of motor vehicle routes in the Monument’s 10 year travel plan; and the Paria River is not one of them, as it is a river, not a road!! It also is part of the Paria-Hackberry Wilderness Study Area, and merits inclusion for the National Wild and Scenic River System. For eight years the Bush Administration’s BLM, spinelessly did not enforce the ORV travel plan, or even make a casual attempt at enforcement. The BLM states that it relied upon “voluntary compliance”, which is hypocrisy at its worst; since the BLM had previously documented the destructive impacts from illegal vehicular use, with the attending loss of critical wildlife habitat for fish, amphibians, reptiles , birds and mammals.
In early May of this year, in a fit of motorized mass dementia, several hundred ORV riders illegally drove their machines up the Paria River in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, in open defiance of the BLM’s laissez-faire attitude re: travel compliance in ecologically sensitive areas. The BLM had known in advance of this forthcoming illegal invasion, as the rider’s had already trumpeted the ride; however the BLM virtually acted as a welcoming committee when they did not issue citations, or take any legal action against the participants and organizers of this destructive ride.
How sad it is to think that the very people who so vociferously proclaim their love of the outdoors, as in this situation, are the same ones who cannot wait to trash such sensitive environment. Hopefully we may be able to enlist the help of the Secrtaryy of the Interior, Ken Salazar, to terminate this lawlessness once and for all.
The Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance, to which I have been donating, has issued a report on the relationship if any, between televised hype from ORV retailers, and the vigilante driving tactics of too many ORV owners, with the help of Responsible Trails America ( RTA). Based upon a five-year period of surveys, RTA found “troubling parallels between the advertising rhetoric, and reckless, even violent behavior taking place on off-road vehicles throughout the country.” Three of the four companies —Arctic Cat, Suzuki, and Polaris had televised ads that were the most aggressive, and were most likely to incite very aggressive, anti-social behavior and lawlessness in ORV buyers.
There are of course decent and law abiding ORV owners; however their numbers are overshadowed by the ones who commit the rapes of the very ecosystems we need to scrub our air from airborne pollutants, and to prevent the enhancement of global warming. It should also be noted that conservation of wildlands protects human communities, as well as wildlife in the forests.
News from 1888
Wagner dies of his wounds
The angry excitement over the shooting of E. W. Wagner at Monterey by Charles Hawes of Pacific Grove on the 9th of July grows every hour. Sheriff Horton of Salinas came over to Monterey and concluded it to be wise and prudent to remove Hawes to the County Jail. This he did, last Saturday, assisted by Deputy Sheriff Walter who quietly took the prisoner out by a back street where the two men boarded a carriage and drove away, one of these men in irons.
Wagner, whose life was despaired of from the moment his wounds were first examined, sank rapidly, and he breathed his last on Sunday evening. His wife and two children had hurried from their home to be by Wagner’s side as soon as they heard of the shooting. The incident grew from a simple quarrel, a disagreement that might have been settled other that by force of arms.
Our sympathies go out most fervently to Wagner’s bereaved widow and orphans. And in the aftermath of his tragedy, where the innocent must always suffer anguish, there is another one for whose wounded spirit and crushed heart the balm of condolence will be extended. It is the wife of Charles Hawes, the shootist. His wife is so young, a mere girl, so delicate and refined. It seems hard to understand how her young life can be linked to this terrible tragedy, and to the verdict which a jury is likely to render against her husband. It is a heavy cross for one so gentle to bear. Will the Grove, where she is known and highly regarded, become a fountain of sympathy for her that can never run dry.
Constable Walter of Monterey has presented a warrant from Judge Westfall ordering the prisoner to the first hearing of the case.
The prisoner is to be housed in Salinas. Officials fear that if the man is brought back to Pacific Grove, angry citizens will surely lynch him. The sum of $255.25 has been collected for presentation to the family of the slain man.
How Arroyo Grande views Pacific Grove
Pacific Grove is a pretty, but odd place. The Methodistical rules are stringent, and new comers are kicking up fusses over them. Business places are not allowed in residence blocks. Boarding and lodging houses are not businesses, but the butcher and baker are. One can roller skate in Pacific Grove, but no one may dance. One can play croquet, but not billiards. A quiet, private nip is frequently taken, but public drinking is not allowed. Pacific Grove, in the view of Arroyo Grande, is a very good place to be away from, and that is an opinion with which the Arroyo Grande Herald agrees.
Talk the matter up
Now that summer is upon us, with its long evenings, something should be done to provide entertainment for our people-young and old. A literary society or lyceum has been suggested. The Pacific Grove Review endorses both ideas. These are good suggestions. By next week, we hope to announce a meeting to consider this matter further.
Water connections prove growth
The following figures furnished by the collector of water rates for the Pacific Improvement Company show the relative growth of Pacific Grove for the past three years. During 1886, 87 water services were connected. During 1887, that number rose to 132. And in 188, there are 355 services. These figures indicate that as a place of winter residence, the Pacific Grove is increasing more rapidly than its buildings.
Around the marketplace…
- Teeth can be extracted quickly and without pain by Dr. J. V. Horner.
- Delicious pies with extra mince are on the shelf at the El Carmelo Bakery.
- The Pacific Grove Circulating Library will be open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 2 until 4.
- Fresh candy and fine cigars can be purchased from the Avenue Store, opposite the Post Office.
- The most popular boot and shoe dealer for those in Pacific Grove and Monterey is G. Bertolds, footwear.
- Harter’s iron tonic is the fastest way to good health and abundant energy.
- We will deliver a complete chamber set anywhere in Pacific Grove for $20. A. Lewis & Co.
- The Carmelo Bakery is offering 13 ten-cent loaves of milk bread for $1.
Safety & sidewalks: Traffic and Safety Commission tackles pedestrian safety
By Cameron Douglas
To stop or not to stop? That is the question many drivers seem to ask themselves at the intersection of Gibson and Fountain. Currently, those traveling on Fountain are required to stop: those traveling on Gibson are not. But they want to - most of the time. This and other safety concerns crossed the agenda of the Traffic Safety Commission on July 14. Read more…»
BID working on downtown image
Tuesday morning, June 9, downtown Pacific Grove merchants and citizens woke up to the cheerful sight of American flags flapping gaily from lamp posts on Forest Avenue and up and down Lighthouse Avenue. The flags were installed thanks to the cooperation of the Business Improvement district, the Chamber of Commerce and individual businesses and will remain flying until Labor Day. Nearly 40 lamp posts were decorated in preparation for Flag Day (June 14) and the Fourth of July, while a few more remain to be repaired. The eventual total will be 44 lamp posts, each with three flags. Read more…»
Traffic Commission will tackle pedestrian safety in school zones
By Cameron Douglas
At the recent Traffic Safety Commission meeting, Commissioner Winston Elstob expressed concern about the safety of children dropped off in front of Robert Down School. He witnessed incidents where parents pulled up alongside parked cars and allowed their kids to get out on the traffic side of the vehicle. “Why do parents do that?” said Elstob. “We used to have traffic wardens. I don’t know why they can’t do that again.” He also noted that many cars made U-turns in front of the school, but PG Police Chief Engles said that U-turns are legal in a residential area if they commence from the lane nearest the center of the roadway. Read more…»
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