Elzéard Bouffier’s Generosity of Spirit: An Inspiration to All Individuals Who Plant Trees

The Carmel-by-the-Sea WATCHDOG! highly recommends reading the short story "The Man Who Planted Trees" (1953) by Jean Giono and/or viewing the short film “The Man Who Planted Trees” (1987) by Frédéric Back, Winner of the Academy Award for Animated Short Film.

Short Animated Film:
THE MAN WHO PLANTED TREES (1987)
(L'HOMME QUI PLANTAIT DES ARBRES)
Narrated by Christopher Plummer
Duration: 30 minutes 07 seconds

Short Story:
"The Man Who Planted Trees" (1987) By Jean Giono
Pages: 8

About the Author:
Jean Giono later wrote an American admirer of the tale that his purpose in creating Bouffier "was to make people love the tree, or more precisely, to make them love planting trees."

Credit:
Upon the recommendation of Greg D’Ambrosio, former City Forester of Carmel-by-the-Sea. Greg D'Ambrosio worked for our city for thirty-three years, including twelve years as city forester, responsible for managing the city's forestry, parks and beach programs, and twenty-three years serving in a wide range of administrative leadership roles.

Phase One “Design Plans Only” for Second Permanent Restroom Approved by City Council

ABSTRACT: At the City Council Meeting on September 9, 2008, the City Council considered a Resolution entering into an agreement with Carver + Schicketanz to prepare plans and bid documents for the proposed new permanent restrooms at Santa Lucia and Scenic Road in an amount not to exceed $55,759. The Resolution covered design plans and the preparation of bid documents only, not construction of the proposed permanent restrooms. A Description of the Scope of Work, as presented in the Agenda Item Summary, is described and the City Council’s modifications to the Resolution (Phase One only) and unanimous vote is presented. A COMMENT is made with regard to the City’s Local Coastal Program and the belated actions of the City Administrator and the City Council.

View of Temporary Restroom Facility, W/s Scenic Rd. @ Santa Lucia Av. from Carmel Beach

View of Temporary Restroom Facility, W/s Scenic Rd. @ Santa Lucia Av. from Steps to Carmel Beach

AGENDA
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, September 9, 2008

X. Resolutions

B. Consideration of a Resolution entering into an agreement with Carver + Schicketanz to prepare plans and bid documents for the proposed new permanent restrooms at Santa Lucia and Scenic Road in an amount not to exceed $55,759

SYNOPSIS:
Description of the Scope of Work, including Phase One and Phase Two, Time Completion and Cost Estimates, as follows:

Phase One
• Gather information regarding permit requirements from various public agencies;
• After initial project analysis, meet with the appropriate Boards & Commissions to seek project input; and
• Develop a schematic design.
Complete within 180 days of Contract Signing
Cost: $18,664

Phase Two
• Complete architectural design;
• Prepare bid documents; and
• Perform construction administration (as needed).
Complete within 180 days of final Planning or California Coastal Commission Permit Approval.
Cost: $37,095

TOTAL COST: $55,759

The ESTIMATED TOTAL CONSTRUCTION COST is $314,655, according to the consultant Robert M. Carver, President, of Carver Schicketanz Architects. And the proposed location is Scenic Road & Santa Lucia Av., in the vicinity of the existing portable toilets. The site will be dug in and earth sheltered with a floor level about 10 feet below the elevation of Scenic Road and have a planted “green roof.”

After deliberation, Council Member ROSE moved approval of a Resolution to enter into an agreement with Carver + Schicketanz for Phase One minus an outdoor shower and foot shower, waste and recycling receptacles for the proposed new permanent restrooms at Santa Lucia and Scenic Road in an amount not to exceed $18,664, seconded by Council Member TALMAGE, and carried by the following roll call:

AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: HAZDOVAC, ROSE, SHARP, TALMAGE & McCLOUD
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE

COMMENT:
• Even though City Administrator Rich Guillen acknowledged in his City Council Agenda Item Summary that the Local Coastal Program mandates that restroom facilities must be provided consistent with the volume of visitors to the beach and Beach Bluff Pathway (and states the usage of the facilities is high) and makes reference to replacing the current restroom facility with a permanent constructed facility, it has taken five years since certification of the Local Coastal Program in 2003 for the City Administrator and City Council to only now consider “design plans only” for a second permanent restroom facility south of 8th Avenue.

REFERENCES:
Regular City Council Meeting, September 09, 2008 Video (2:24:00 - 2:36:44)
X. Resolutions
B. Consideration of a Resolution entering into an agreement with Carver + Schicketanz to prepare plans and bid documents for the proposed new permanent restrooms at Santa Lucia and Scenic Road in an amount not to exceed $55,759

AGENDA PACKET
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, September 9, 2008

Architect hired to design Scenic restrooms, MARY BROWNFIELD, The Carmel Pine Cone, September 26, 2008

The 2nd Annual Carmel Authors & Ideas Festival

WHAT: The 2nd Annual Carmel Authors & Ideas Festival Presented by the Carmel Ideas Foundation

WHO: Authors (alphabetical, by surname)
Tamim Ansary

Reza Aslan

Sylvia Boorstein

Leo Braudy

Cecil Castellucci

Gennifer Choldenko

Michael Datcher

Philip Fradkin

Andrew Fraknoi

Mark Frost

Khaled Hosseini

Roger Housden

Terri Jentz

Jane Juska

Michael Krasny

Wendy Lichtman

Fred Luskin

Irshad Manji

Greg Mortenson

Markus Naerheim

Gina Nahai

Sandra Day O'Connor, Justice

Kathryn Otoshi

Elaine Petrocelli

Michael Pollan

Frank Portman

Michael Pritchard

James Ragan

Michealene Cristini Risley

Kemble Scott

Don Shula

Gail Tsukiyama

Rick Wartzman

Jan Yanehiro

Jeffrey Zaslow
Note: Click on Author's Name for Author's Website or information about each Author.

WHEN: Friday, September 26 – Sunday, September 28, 2008
Friday, September 26: 3:00 P.M. – 7:15 P.M.
Saturday, September 27: 8:00 A.M. – 5:30 P.M.
Sunday, September 28: 8:00 A.M. – 12:45 P.M.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

WHERE: Sunset Theater
E/s San Carlos St. @ 9th Av.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA.

EVENT TICKETS:
$515.00 each (includes facility handling charge)
Includes one seat for all Festival General Sessions

SUPPORTER: $1000.00 each

FOUNDING: $5000.00 each

City Administration: Are Carmelites Getting Their Taxpayers’ Dollars Worth?

ABSTRACT: For Fiscal Year 2008/09, the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea’s General Fund Budget is a total of $ 14,294,494. Of that $14,294,494, $ 806,999 is budgeted for Administration, $ 994,753 for Administrative Services, $224,763 for Information Services/Network Management, $ 164,434 for Legal, $9,300 for Engineering and $2,400 for Treasurer. “City Administration” expenditures, including salary/benefits and materials/services, total $2,202,649 or 15% of the total budget. The most recent data for salaries for the “City Administration,” as presented on the City’s website, are compiled, including employee groups. GENERAL COMMENTS and SPECIFIC COMMENTS are made specifically regarding the performance of the City Administrator. At Will and General Employee Benefits are presented as REFERENCE.

City of Carmel-by-the-Sea
Administration:

Rich Guillen, City Administrator
Employee Group: At Will
Monthly Salary: $11,500.00/ $138,000.00 Annually

Molly Laughlin, Executive Assistant
Employee Group: At Will
Minimum Monthly Salary: $3,873.00/$46,476.00 Annually
Maximum Monthly Salary: $4,708.00/$56,496.00 Annually

Heidi Burch, Asst City Administrator/ City Clerk/
Employee Group: At Will
Minimum Monthly Salary: $7,905.00/$94,860.00 Annually
Maximum Monthly Salary: $9,608.00/$115,296.00 Annually

Stephanie Pearce, Administrative Coordinator
Employee Group: General
Minimum Monthly Salary: $3,699.00/$44,388.00 Annually
Maximum Monthly Salary: $4,498.00$53,976.00 Annually

Joyce Giuffre, Administrative Services Director
Employee Group: At Will
Minimum Monthly Salary: $7,482.00/$89,784.00 Annually
Maximum Monthly Salary: $9,093.00/$109,116.00 Annually

Jane Miller, Human Resources Manager
Employee Group: At Will
Minimum Monthly Salary: $6,840.00/$82,080.00 Annually
Maximum Monthly Salary: $8,314.00/$99,768.00 Annually

Karen Love, Finance Specialist
Employee Group: General
Minimum Monthly Salary: $3,888.00/$46,656.00 Annually
Maximum Monthly Salary: $4,726.00/$56,712.00 Annually

Steve McInchak, Information Services Manager
Employee Group: At Will
Minimum Monthly Salary: $6,840.00/$82,080.00 Annually
Maximum Monthly Salary: $8,314.00/$99,768.00 Annually

Don Freeman, City Attorney
Employee Group: At Will
Monthly Salary: $7,500.00/$90,000.00 Annually

Dewey Evans, City Treasurer
Contractual Services: $2,400.00 Annually

Clayton Neill, Jr., City Engineer
Professional and Contractual Services: $9,300.00 Annually

GENERAL COMMENTS:
• For a city of 4,081 permanent residents, only 1 square mile area and 68 full time employees, the City Administrator of the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea is arguably highly compensated at a salary of $138,000/year and benefits compared to other City Administrators and City Managers. And while that compensation may be at a level which reflects the competitive market environment and the financial position of the City, it arguably does not reflect the individual’s annual performance. Specifically, in over eight years as City Administrator, Rich Guillen has not proactively and competently administered to the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea, as evident in the following:

• The City Administrator, over an eight year period, has not demonstrated an adequate knowledge of municipal affairs, good judgment, planning ahead, anticipating needs and recognizing potential problems, such as his failure to educate the public and address the consolidation of the Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey and Pacific Grove Fire Departments. Moreover, he has exhibited a poor quality of analysis that accompanies recommendations and he has not shown a good sense of timing in bringing issues to the City Council for action.

• The City Administrator, over an eight year period, has not demonstrated sufficient knowledge of financial matters, such as the appropriate amount of reserve funds relative to the annual budget, use of consultants and outside contractors, et cetera.

• The City Administrator, over an eight year period, has not been effective in assuring staff makes a positive impression on citizens, such as refusing to allow employees with the requisite background, knowledge and experience to directly respond to citizen queries.

• The City Administrator, over an eight year period, has generally not made a positive impression on citizens and is not respected as a competent administrator in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Moreover, he appears to not have sufficient leadership characteristics and rarely shows initiative in dealing with issues, but rather waits for “policy direction” from the mayor and city council on a myriad of basic issues.

SPECIFIC COMMENTS:
• Overemphasis on consultants and outside contractors and under emphasis on long-term employees with institutional memory; and a general failure to advocate for the funding and implementation of consultants’ studies recommendations, such as the recommendations of the Nichols Consulting Pavement Management Study, Forest Studies, et cetera.

• Underfunding and understaffing of critical and essential City Departments, such as Forest, Parks and Beach Department.

• Underfunding Capital Improvement Projects, such as critical infrastructure street maintenance/repaving projects and a failure to adequately budget for such projects on an annual basis.

• Failure to advocate for the funding and implementation of the Forest Theater Master Plan in phases over time.

• Failure to advocate for the funding and completion of permanent Carmel Beach restrooms on Scenic Road, as recommended by the City’s Local Coastal Program since certification in 2003.

• Multi-years delay in the funding and completion of the 4th Avenue Riparian Habitat Project, years after the removal of the Eucalyptus trees.

• Failure to advocate for the adequate funding of Harrison Memorial Library, particularly with regard to opening the Library on Sundays.

• Failure to advocate for the funding and completion of ADA compliance upgrades and improvements to the Scout House so the City’s Community Center could be reopened to the public and user groups.

• Overemphasis of and overfunding for Marketing and Economic Revitalization without tangible results and commensurate funding for tourist accommodations, e.g., adequate number and quality of public restrooms.

• Overall, a lack of investment in specifically resident-oriented items, such as reforestation, streets/avenues/roads maintenance, City assets e.g. Flanders Mansion, Scout House, Forest Theatre, Public Works building, et cetera, by annually budgeting for the maintenance and upgrades of these items.

REFERENCE:
Classifications Definitions:

At Will
Cafeteria Plan: $0.00 + 0% Deferred Compensation: $25.00
Health Insurance: $1,306.01 Life Insurance: $11.84
Long Term Disability: $0.00 Retirement Contribution: 17.3%
Retirement Pick-up: 0% Social Security: 0.0% Medicare: 1.45%

BENEFITS
Health Insurance
Employer contributes up to $1230.32 month for medical, coverage. Medical insurance is provided through the CalPERS Plan. Dental and Vision insurance is City-funded at an average cost of $75.69/mo. per covered employee.

Other Benefits
At-Will employees are hired through individual, negotiated contracts, therefore, benefits will differ. In general, At-Will are afforded the same benefits of the Management Association (except Union-only benefits), or those which may be otherwise negotiated.

General
Cafeteria Plan: $0.00 + 0% Deferred Compensation: $0.00
Health Insurance: $1,119.00 Life Insurance: $11.84
Long Term Disability: $0.00 Retirement Contribution: 17.3%
Retirement Pick-up: 0% Social Security: 0.0% Medicare: 1.45%

BENEFITS
AD&D
Coverage is $30,000, employer covers 100% of the premium at a cost of $1.20/month.

Bereavement Leave
3 days/year.

Deferred Compensation
Voluntary 457 plan, no employer contribution.

General Leave
8 hours/year.

Health Insurance
Health Insurance: Medical coverage is available through CalPERS (PEHMCA). Employer contributes up to $401.27/month for employee only, $802.55 for employee plus one, $1043.31/month for employee plus 2 or more for medical insurance (Amounts include the mandatory employer contribution to PERS)Dental and Vision insurance: Employer covers 100% through a self-funded program at an average cost of $75.69/month, which provides annually for a $25 deductible and $1,500 cap for dental and $45 for eye exams, $50 for Single, $70 for Trifocal, $140 for Lenticular, and $50 for Contact lenses, each eye.

Holidays
12 days/year.

Life Insurance
Coverage is $30,000, employer covers 100% of the premium at a cost of $11.84/month.

Long Term Disability
Coverage is 60% of salary, 60 day waiting period, no employer contribution, voluntary employee paid plan at a cost of 1.2% of salary.

Retirement
PERS 2% @ 55, employer contribution rate is 17.3%, employee contribution rate is 7%, employer does not pick-up the employee contribution. (4th level 1959 Survivor is available at an employee paid cost of $2/month) Military Service Credit, Single Highest Year, and Service Credit for unused sick leave is provided.

Sick Leave
96 hours/year, employees with at least 5 years of service may cash out 25% if terminated, or 50% if retired, up to a maximum of 150 hours if terminated, or 300 hours if retired if hired after November 1984, no maximum if hired prior to November 1984.

Supplemental Retirement
Employer paid at rate of $1.08 per hour worked for employees represented by LIUNA Local 270 and hired prior to December 7, 2005, administered through Laborers International Union of North America; Employees hired on or after December 7, 2005 who work 20 hours or more shall pay premium of $1.09 per hour worked for supplemental retirement benefit.

Vacation
1 - 4 years = 80 hours/year, 5 - 10 years = 120 hours/year, 11 - 15 years = 160 hours/year, 15+ years = 176 hours/year, maximum accrual is 2 times annual rate, no cash out plan. Employees may cash out up to 40 hours/fiscal year, subject to the provision of MOU.

Carmel Art Association Presents LECTURE/DEMO – OIL PAINTING DEMONSTRATION

WHO: Painter Gerard Martin, Carmel Art Association Artist Member

WHAT: Oil Painting Demonstration; in conjunction with Gerard Martin’s Center Room exhibit, “Agriculture: Revisited,” Gerard Martin shares his techniques and tips.

WHERE: Carmel Art Association
W/s Dolores St. between 5th Av. & 6th Av.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA.

WHEN: Wednesday, September 24, 7:00 P.M.

NOTES: Free Event, No Reservations Necessary.
View Gerard Martin's "Agriculture: Revisited" exhibit oil paintings, as follows:
"Speckles Harvest"
"Harvest of Heaven"
"Teamwork"
"Spreckles Barn"
"Morning Harvest"
"The Team"
"Land and Color"
"Morning Crew"
"Near Gonzales"
"Evening Warmth"
"Break Time"
"View from the Trees"
"Hot and Dry"
"Red Farmhouse"

LEGACY OF & TRIBUTES TO ENID THOMPSON SALES (1922-2008)

CALIFORNIA PRESERVIATION FOUNDATION
President's Awards
2006 Preservationist of the Year: Enid Sales (Monterey)

Enid Sales Awarded “Lifetime Achievement in Preservation”
First Ever Presentation By Alliance of Monterey Area Preservationists (AMAP)
AMAP’s Highest Honor

URBAN RENEWAL
Enid Sales helped save San Francisco's Victorian homes and never backed away from a preservation fight
Dave Weinstein, Special to The Chronicle
Saturday, January 19, 2008

Fierce advocate for historic buildings dies at 86, MARY BROWNFIELD, The Carmel Pine Cone, September 19, 2008.

Civic leader Sales dies
Had dogged determination to preserve history
By KEVIN HOWE
Herald Staff Writer
09/19/2008

Noel Beutel vs. City of Carmel-by-the-Sea: Trial (Phase I) Ongoing

ABSTRACT: In March 2005, the City’s storm drain at Mission St. & 10th Av. failed causing a “gushing stream” to flow into Carmelite Noel Beutel’s residential property at Junipero Av. & 10th Av. In December 2005, Carmelite Noel Beutel filed a lawsuit against the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea alleging the City’s design and maintenance of the storm drain at Mission St. & 10th Av., west of her residence at Junipero Av. & 10th Av., were “faulty in that improper materials were uses, there was no plan for detection of deterioration in the storm drain, and faulty maintenance procedures were employed.” (Noel Beutel vs. City of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey County Superior Court Case No. M77046) Beutel’s lawsuit seeks reimbursement for the expenses of repairing her residence, appraisal, engineering and attorney’s fees, which are now approximately $400,000. Finally, after numerous delays, Phase I of the Trail commenced on Monday, September 8, 2008. A SYNOPSIS is presented, including information about the ongoing Trial by Judge (Phase I) and upcoming Trial by Jury (Phase II). Each Trial Phase is anticipated to last 2-3 weeks. A GLOSSARY of pertinent legal terms is presented.

SYNOPSIS:
• Winter Storm of March 2005: Failure of Storm Drain at Mission St. & 10th Avenue resulted in a “gushing stream” in the front yard of Carmelite Noel Beutel’s residence at Junipero Avenue & 10th Avenue, N.W. Corner.

• June 2005: Carmelite Noel Beutel filed a claim against the City, which denied the claim and referred it to St. Paul Travelers, the City’s insurance company.

• August-September 2005: St. Paul Travelers determined it would not cover the damage to Noel Beutel’s residence because the City did not have prior knowledge of the storm drain’s condition.

• December 1, 2005: Noel Beutel filed a lawsuit in Monterey County Superior Court alleging the City’s design and maintenance of the storm drain were “faulty in that improper materials were uses, there was no plan for detection of deterioration in the storm drain, and faulty maintenance procedures were employed.” (Noel Beutel vs. City of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey County Superior Court Case No. M77046) Moreover, Grice Engineering and Geology determined her residence “showed severe settlement and some stress,” and concluded the shift occurred rapidly as a result of “the subsurface erosion of the adjacent soils by the corroded storm drain.” Beutel’s lawsuit seeks reimbursement for the expenses of repairing her residence, appraisal, engineering and attorney’s fees.

• April 2006: The City filed response with court, denied any wrongdoing and argued the damages were “caused by the plaintiff’s own conduct or that of a party or parties other than the defendant,” and that she “has not suffered the monetary damages whatsoever,” because of the City. The City requested the court dismiss her suit “with prejudice.”

• Jury Trials scheduled for February 5, 2007, August, 13, 2007, December 10, 2007, April 28, 2008 and September 8, 2008.

• Trail commenced on Monday, September 8, 2008 with Hon. Susan M. Dauphiné presiding in Courtroom 15, 2nd Floor, Monterey Courthouse. Plaintiff Noel Beutel is represented by Robert E. Rosenthal, Bohnen, Rosenthal & Dusenbury; Defendant City of Carmel-by-the-Sea is represented by Stan Linker, Kennedy, Archer & Harray. The Trail has Two Phases:
1. Judge Trial; issues involve negligence and inverse condemnation; anticipated time duration about 2-3 weeks.
2. Jury Trial: issues involve damages; anticipated time duration 2-3 weeks.

Sources:
Noel Beutel, Carmel-by-the-Sea Resident

LAWSUIT OVER FAILED STORM DRAIN HEADING TO COURT, MARY BROWNFIELD, The Carmel Pine Cone, March 23, 3007

GLOSSARY:
damages
n. the amount of money which a plaintiff (the person suing) may be awarded in a lawsuit.

negligence
n. failure to exercise the care toward others which a reasonable or prudent person would do in the circumstances, or taking action which such a reasonable person would not.

inverse condemnation
n. the taking of property by a government agency which so greatly damages the use of a parcel of real property that it is the equivalent of condemnation of the entire property. Thus the owner claims he/she is entitled to payment for the loss of the property (in whole or in part) under the constitutional right to compensation for condemnation of property under the government's eminent domain right.

COMMENTARY: The City Doth Protest Too Much

Even though City Attorney Don Freeman’s introductory remarks at the September 9, 2008 City Council meeting regarding Sue McCloud’s appeal of a Forest and Beach Commission’s unanimous decision to approve the removal of Susan Page’s black acacia tree were characterized by his concern that the City is trying to “ensure for the applicant, the appellant and the general public that we have a clean and open and fair process for everybody involved and we have taken great pains to do that and ensure that nobody has been able to influence the staff or any of the elected or appointed officials,” it is telling that he found it necessary to express these thoughts, as if members of the public had reason to believe the process had been unfairly influenced and/or presented in a partial manner.

Evidence that the City had not been fair and impartial in the process of determining whether to approve or deny Carmelite Susan Page’s application to remove her black acacia tree is substantial. To wit, at every step in the process involving Susan Page’s intention to remove her “dangerous” black acacia tree on her private property, Sue McCloud, Susan Page’s neighbor directly to the east, delayed the process and attempted to influence the outcome, as follows:

• Sue McCloud instigated or condoned, and in any event oversaw, the delay of Susan Page’s application to the Forest and Beach Commission for the removal of her black acacia tree multiple times over many months.

• Sue McCloud instigated or condoned, and in any event oversaw, the delay of her appeal of the Forest and Beach Commission’s unanimous decision approving the removal of Susan Page’s black acacia tree to the City Council for four months.

• Sue McCloud highlighted documents which were subsequently copied and distributed to the public and loaded onto the City’s website as part of the City Council September 9, 2008 Agenda Packet; highlighted documents which were not only addressed to and written by her, but also documents not written or addressed to her, namely a Tree Assessment prepared for Susan Page by certified arborist Frank Ono, Memorandums from City Forester Mike Branson, Susan Page’s Applications For Permit to Remove or Prune Trees and correspondence from Susan Page to the Forest and Beach Commission. Highlighted portions were favorable to Sue McCloud’s position of retaining and pruning the existing black acacia tree.

• At the meeting, and after the Agenda Packet had been prepared for the public and loaded onto the City’s website, a Supplemental Packet from Sue McCloud was entered into the public record and distributed. These documents were also highlighted, including a report from a hired arborist.

Given the aforementioned facts, it is telling that during City Council deliberations on the appeal, City Council Members Gerard Rose (“I didn’t make up my mind until just now”), Ken Talmage (“Well, I haven’t made up my mind”) and Karen Sharp ("I too was so totally undecided”) all expressed sentiments that they had not made up their minds prior to the public hearing, which begs the question, don’t council members always keep an open mind and decide on the merits of each item only after they hear all of the oral testimony and deliberate among themselves?

In the end, the City Council voted 3-1, Council Member Gerard Rose dissenting, to uphold the Forest and Beach Commission’s unanimous decision approving the removal of Susan Page’s black acacia tree. However, the actions of Sue McCloud during this process illustrate her penchant for misusing her position as mayor, a public trust, to promote and pursue her personal interests above the interests of another Carmelite and the general interests of all Carmelites.

ACTIONS TAKEN: Five Items on City Council September 9, 2008 Agenda

AGENDA
Regular City Council Meeting
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
4:30 p.m., Open Session

VII. Consent Calendar
These matters include routine financial and administrative actions, which are usually approved by a single majority vote. Individual items may be removed from Consent by a member of the Council or the public for discussion and action.

E. Consideration of a Resolution to authorize co-sponsorship between the Forest and Beach Commission and the Friends of Carmel Forest (FOCF) of an “Arbor Day” event on Thursday, October 30, 2008 and authorize City funds in an amount not to exceed $1,250.

H. Consideration of a Resolution authorizing Architectural Resources Group (ARG) for site evaluation and construction costs estimates on the Flanders Project in an amount not to exceed $11,500.

ACTION TAKEN:
Council Member ROSE moved approval of the Consent Calendar, seconded by Council Member HAZDOVAC and carried unanimously.

VIII. Public Hearings
If you challenge the nature of the proposed action in Court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Council at, or prior to, the public hearing.

B. Consideration of an appeal of a decision by the Forest and Beach Commission approving the removal of a 30-inch diameter black acacia at a property at 2922 Santa Lucia Avenue. The appellant is Sue McCloud, property owner of the home next door, on the east side.

ACTION TAKEN:
Council Member ROSE moved to grant an appeal of the Forest and Beach Commission’s decision approving the removal of a black acacia tree, overturning the Forest and Beach Commission’s decision. The motion was not seconded.

Council Member TALMAGE moved to uphold the Forest and Beach Commission’s decision approving the removal of a black acacia tree with the adoption of 6 points proposed by appellant Sue McCloud and the planting of 2 24” box olive trees unless other trees mutually agreed upon by Susan Page and Sue McCloud, seconded by Council Member SHARP and carried by the following role call:

AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: HAZDOVAC, SHARP & TALMAGE
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: ROSE
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE

X. Resolutions

B. Consideration of a Resolution entering into an agreement with Carver + Schicketanz to prepare plans and bid documents for the proposed new permanent restrooms at Santa Lucia and Scenic Road in an amount not to exceed $55,759

ACTION TAKEN:
Council Member ROSE moved approval of a Resolution approving Phase I minus some items, seconded by Council Member TALMAGE and carried by the following roll call:

AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: HAZDOVAC, ROSE, SHARP, TALMAGE & McCLOUD
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE

XI. Orders of Council

C. Receive report and provide policy direction regarding the hiring of three new firefighters.

ACTION TAKEN:
Unanimous consent by COUNCIL MEMBERS HAZDOVAC, ROSE, TALMAGE, SHARP & McCLOUD to authorize the exploration of hiring three new firefighters.
Note: "Staff recommends the Council authorize three firefighter positions to bring the fire engine minimum staffing up from two to three" or an additional firefighter (a third firefighter) for 3 shifts.

APPEAL OF A FOREST & BEACH COMMISSION DECISION: Safety and Liability Concerns vs. Privacy Concerns

ABSTRACT: At today’s City Council meeting, an appeal of a unanimous decision by the Forest and Beach Commission approving the removal of a 30-inch diameter black acacia tree will be considered during Public Hearings. The appellant is Sue McCloud. RELEVANT INFORMATION is presented. COMMENTS are made, particularly with respect to fair minded individuals impartially reviewing the record having to conclude that safety and liability concerns of the owner far outweigh privacy concerns of the appellant.

AGENDA PACKET
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, September 9, 2008

VIII. Public Hearings
If you challenge the nature of the proposed action in Court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Council at, or prior to, the public hearing.

B. Consideration of an appeal of a decision by the Forest and Beach Commission approving the removal of a 30-inch diameter black acacia at a property at 2922 Santa Lucia Avenue. The appellant is Sue McCloud, property owner of the home next door, on the east side.

RELEVANT INFORMATION:
• In preparation for the Forest and Beach Commission meeting on April 3, 2008, applicant Susan Page hired certified arborist Frank Ono for a tree assessment. The assessment was limited to a visual assessment of her black acacia tree. Among Frank Ono’s findings and conclusions are the following:

The tree is a 33” diameter black acacia (Acacia melanoxylon), a non-native tree and invasive species.

Past pruning practices of heading or topping. Evidence that each major limb has been topped, an improper pruning practice, resulting in unstable tree branches. Branching structure poor. Poor and weak branch attachments.
“...the tree is in poor condition structurally due to past pruning practices.”
V-crotch branching from past improper pruning results in a hazard and potential liability for the owner.

Dieback evident in canopy

Acacia tree is “too large for its area.”

History of past tree failure

Recommendation: Removal and replacement of the tree with an appropriate species. Effective replacement plantings include four identified shrubs.

• At the Forest and Beach Commission meeting on April 3, 2008, Sue McCloud’s sister, Sarah Berling, represented her sister who was not in attendance because she was concerned that “she not appear to be applying any undue pressure.” Sarah Berling stated that her sister wanted the acacia tree to be retained and pruned to “ensure that it remains healthy.” Her position to retain the acacia tree is based on privacy issues, namely privacy from Susan Page’s second floor which she claimed looks directly into Sue McCloud’s living, dining room and kitchen areas and screening from Susan Page’s flat roof and back deck from Sue McCloud’s upper deck and vice versa. In support of her position, a reproduction of a page from Design Traditions involving Privacy, Views, Light and Air was given to the City.

• After deliberation, the Forest and Beach Commission unanimously approved (4-0) an application by Susan Page for the removal of a 30- inch diameter black acacia located on her property at 2922 Santa Lucia Avenue.

• Meeting Date: September 9, 2008
Prepared by: Mike Branson
City Council Agenda Item Summary

Staff Recommendation: Uphold the decision of the Forest and Beach Commission.

Important Considerations: The acacia tree has been topped and heavily pruned for many years, resulting in multiple leaders with poor points of attachment to the main structural limbs of the tree. This type of pruning also frequently leads to decay of the limbs and an increased risk of limb or tree failure over time. Continued heavy pruning to limit growth and weight of the tree canopy can limit the stress on the limbs, but the risk of significant limb failure always remains due to past pruning practices. Staff recommended allowing removal of the tree and replanting with a 24-inch box fruitless olive tree.

COMMENTS:
• In November 2000, when Carmelite Susan Page first applied for removal of her black acacia tree, Sue McCloud wrote she may be the “defacto owner or at least partial owner” of the acacia tree.

• Given that the Forest and Beach Commission rendered its unanimous decision to approve removal of the black acacia tree on 3 April 2008 and Sue McCloud appealed the decision the day after their decision on 4 April 2008, the City was obligated to placed the appeal on the “next” City Council agenda, i.e. 6 May 2008, per the Municipal Code. While City Clerk Heidi Burch stated the attorney for Susan Page requested the appeal be pulled from the May 6, 2008 City Council Agenda, there is no correspondence from Susan Page’s attorney, Stephen Beals, in the Agenda Packet to corroborate or support the City’s assertion.

• Upon reviewing all the facts in this case, all fair minded individuals would have to conclude that safety and liability concerns far outweigh privacy concerns, especially given the fact that shrubs could be planted in Sue McCloud’s side year by Sue McCloud herself for privacy and screening purposes. Ergo, all fair minded individuals reviewing the facts in this case in an impartial manner would vote to uphold the unanimous decision of the Forest and Beach Commission and finally allow the removal of a “dangerous” black acacia tree.

Five Agenda Items on September 9, 2008 City Council Agenda

ABSTRACT: Five Agenda items on the September 9, 2008 City Council Agenda are highlighted, including Resolutions involving co-sponsorship between the Forest and Beach Commission and the Friends of Carmel Forest for an “Arbor Day” event, Flanders Project site evaluation and construction costs estimates and the proposed new permanent restrooms at Santa Lucia Avenue and Scenic Road plans and bid documents; Public Hearing involving an appeal of a decision by the Forest and Beach Commission approving the removal of a 30-inch diameter black acacia; and an Order of Council regarding the hiring of three new firefighters. A SYNOPSIS for each agenda item is presented including selected excerpts from City Council Agenda Item Summaries.

AGENDA PACKET
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, September 9, 2008

VII. Consent Calendar
These matters include routine financial and administrative actions, which are usually approved by a single majority vote. Individual items may be removed from Consent by a member of the Council or the public for discussion and action.

E. Consideration of a Resolution to authorize co-sponsorship between the Forest and Beach Commission and the Friends of Carmel Forest (FOCF) of an “Arbor Day” event on Thursday, October 30, 2008 and authorize City funds in an amount not to exceed $1,250.

SYNOPSIS:
Staff Recommendation: Adopt a resolution to approve co-sponsorship of the event and authorize expenditure of city funds up to $1,250.

Description: The Forest and Beach Commission is requesting co-sponsorship with the FOCF, an official City support group, for an “Arbor Day” event from 1:00-3:30 pm on October 30, 2008, at Carpenter Hall. Kelaine Vargas, from the Center for Urban Forest Research, will present a speech, “Money Does Grow on Trees: The Economic Benefit of Trees to the Community”. There also will be a three-person panel discussion on “Fostering the Contemporary Urban Forest.”

Important Considerations: During its July meeting, the Forest and Beach Commission unanimously approved a recommendation that the City Council approve cosponsorship of this event with the FOCF. City sponsorship of this event meets one of the standards for recognition as a Tree City USA in 2008 and allows the Forest and Beach Commission to perform one of its identified duties under Municipal Code Chapter 2.32.060(D).

H. Consideration of a Resolution authorizing Architectural Resources Group (ARG) for site evaluation and construction costs estimates on the Flanders Project in an amount not to exceed $11,500.

SYNOPSIS:
Staff Recommendation: Adopt the resolution.

Description: ARG will perform the following three tasks for the Flanders Project:
A. Site evaluation to understand existing conditions of the Flanders structure and gather information from the City’s planning and building maintenance staff;
B. Update the previous construction cost estimate that will describe each task and associated costs; and
C. Revise the cost estimate report based on comments received from the City’s legal counsel and staff.

VIII. Public Hearings

B. Consideration of an appeal of a decision by the Forest and Beach Commission approving the removal of a 30-inch diameter black acacia at a property at 2922 Santa Lucia Avenue. The appellant is Sue McCloud, property owner of the home next door, on the east side.

SYNOPSIS:
Staff Recommendation: Uphold the decision of the Forest and Beach Commission.

Description: During its regular meeting of April 3, 2008, the Forest and Beach Commission unanimously approved (4-0) an application by Ms. Susan Page for the removal of a 30- inch diameter black acacia located on her property at 2922 Santa Lucia Avenue. The Commission’s approval was contingent upon the applicant planting a 24-inch box specimen tree in the same area following removal of the acacia tree.

Important Considerations:
The acacia tree has been topped and heavily pruned for many years, resulting in multiple leaders with poor points of attachment to the main structural limbs of the tree. This type of pruning also frequently leads to decay of the limbs and an increased risk of limb or tree failure over time. Continued heavy pruning to limit growth and weight of the tree canopy can limit the stress on the limbs, but the risk of significant limb failure always remains due to past pruning practices. Staff recommended allowing removal of the tree and replanting with a 24-inch box fruitless olive tree.

X. Resolutions

B. Consideration of a Resolution entering into an agreement with Carver + Schicketanz to prepare plans and bid documents for the proposed new permanent restrooms at Santa Lucia and Scenic Road in an amount not to exceed $55,759

SYNOPSIS:
Staff Recommendation: Adopt the Resolution.

Description: At the City’s request, Mr. Rob Carver of Carver + Schicketanz submitted a proposal to provide an analysis and develop bid documents for the construction of permanent restroom facilities at Santa Lucia and Scenic Road. The scope of work is divided into the following phases:

Phase One
• Gather information regarding permit requirements from various public agencies;
• After initial project analysis, meet with the appropriate Boards & Commissions to seek project input; and
• Develop a schematic design.

Phase Two
• Complete architectural design;
• Prepare bid documents; and
• Perform construction administration (as needed).

Decision Record: The Local Coastal Program, adopted in June 2003, states that restroom facilities must be provided consistent with the volume of visitors to the beach and Beach Bluff Pathway. In addition, reference is made to replacing the current restroom facility at Santa Lucia and Scenic Road with a permanently constructed facility.

XI. Orders of Council

C. Receive report and provide policy direction regarding the hiring of three new firefighters.

SYNOPSIS:
Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends that City Council approve hiring three additional firefighters.

Description: Adding three firefighters will ensure that a 24/7, stable level of staffing is maintained in accordance with Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) requirements and National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) guidelines.

City Funds: $324,000 annually

Important Considerations: The ambulance assigned to the fire station is staffed with two medical responders, both of whom are cross-trained as firefighters. When the ambulance is committed to medical calls, these firefighters are temporarily unavailable, consequently depleting front-line firefighter capability. Adding three new firefighters will resolve this problem by ensuring a constant staffing level.

Eclectic Courtyards & Passageways of Downtown Carmel-by-the-Sea: #28, #29, #30, #31, #32, #33 & #34

Map Delineating 28. Las Tiendas, 29. Tuck Box Courtyard, 30. El Paseo Courtyard, 31. Plaza San Carlos, 32. Vandervort Court, 33. Paseo San Carlos and 34. Doud Arcade: A Shopping Village in the Tradition of Old Carmel 28. Las Tiendas Entrance to Las Tiendas, S/s Ocean Av., east of Dolores St. Close-Up of Entrance to Las Tiendas, S/s Ocean Av., east of Dolores St. View of Courtyard View of Courtyard Passageway to Courtyard Passageway Entrance to Las Tiendas, E/s Dolores St., south of Ocean Av. Shops and Businesses: Red Haute This sophisticated yet casual boutique offers everything in fur, leather, and suede. To the latest denims and outrageous accessories. A casual to dressy attitude with an emphasis on stylish designers and edgy fashion. The Club at Red Haute Attitude. Sophistication. Style. The contemporary, trend setting locale for men and women in Carmel. Featuring unique designer collections ranging from, jackets to jeans, belts to boots, smart to spontaneous, with the emphasis on quality and originality. The Carmel Coffee House And Roasting Company Carmel Valley Coffee Roasting Company (CVCRC) was established in 1994 with a specific focus in mind: To provide superior fresh roasted coffee, using the finest Arabica beans, delivered fresh to discerning customers who wish to prolong their Carmel experience with every delicious sip of coffee. Coffee. Carmel Valley Roasting Company is a place where visitors and friends meet to enjoy fresh-roasted coffee from around the world. This Carmel-based roasting company also features Scharffen Berger hot chocolate and a variety of delicious cocoas. Wonderful fresh-baked pastries. Upstairs: Carmel Rentals Jerry Warner founded Carmel Rentals in the mid-1980's. A California native, Warner hand selects a variety of vacation and longterm rentals, as well as vacation homes for sale. North Star Construction Established in 1993, North Star Construction builds and remodels both custom residential homes and high end commercial buildings. North Star specializes in unique and complex designs, restorations, and sustainable environmental building. A member of the United States Green Building Council (USGBC), North Star attempts to incorporate material re-use, passive solar design and the newest sustainable building technology into its projects. 29. Tuck Box Courtyard View of Entrance to Tuck Box Courtyard, E/s Dolores St., north of 7th Av. Shop, Gallery & Tea Room: Tuck Box English Tea Room A tradition since 1940 and Carmel's oldest and most enchanting restaurant. A trip to Carmel is not complete without a visit to The Tuck Box! Open for breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea. Famous scones and homemade pies are baked daily. A Great Place for the Garden & Home Offers the finest in unique home and garden decor, including iron furniture, trellises, bird houses, bird baths, fountains, weathervanes, bronze sculptures, exotic perfumed candles and their famous garden-creature stakes. Everything for the tea lover - teapots and cups, jeweled sugars, tea strainers and cozies, a tea water fountain, silver teapot light fixture and a teacup and saucer planter. Garden chandeliers, botanical lamps and lanterns light your path to uncommon treasures. Their charming one-of-a-kind bird houses and bird cages are a favorite among visitors, as are Lovey & Dovey, the resident doves that live among the topiaries and antique furnishings. Also offer assistance in interior and exterior design. Thomas Kinkade Gift Gallery at the Tuck Box Thomas Kinkade's original gift gallery featuring collectible porcelain, limited edition prints and hard-to-find gifts. 30. El Paseo Courtyard Entrance to El Paseo Building Courtyard, E/s Dolores St., north of 7th Av. View of Courtyard with Jo Mora Sculpture Passageway Entrance to El Paseo Courtyard, N/s 7th Av., west of San Carlos St. Shop, Business and Restaurant: Carrigg’s of Carmel Unique Furnishings & Design Hallie Mitchell Dow Real Estate Broker Sotheby’s International Realty Little Napoli Italian. Carmel's Little Napoli offers Italian country cooking. Known by locals as "Carmel's little Italy," Little Napoli offers antipasti, regional country-style pastas, cannelloni, osso bucco, risotto, crisp-crusted pizzas, local Monterey Bay seafood, and traditional Italian homemade desserts. 31. Plaza San Carlos Entrance to Plaza San Carlos, W/s San Carlos St., north of 7th Av. View of Courtyard Entrance to Plaza San Carlos, N/s 7th Av., west of San Carlos St. Shops and Gallery: Thinker Toys Great toys for thinking kids of all ages, from infants & toddlers to fun-loving adults. Games and puzzles, lego and erector construction kits, Thomas the Tank Engine, educational toys, craft kits and dolls including La Petite Madeline, Groovy Girls, Calico Critters and many more. Mi Alma Custom Handcrafted Lampshades Now in 2008, Charles Marder has unveiled his flagship Mi Alma store in Carmel-By-The-Sea, as a theater for staging the most distinctive custom lighting and home furnishings on offer in America today. We welcome you to visit and experience the quintessence of Charles Marder’s handcrafted original designs in decorative lighting, select home furnishings and accessories. Winters Gallery Specializing in the original diversified work of prominent California and internationally known artists. The gallery features works by Igor Levashov, Tomi Kobara, Vladimir Zolotsev, Henry Richards, Lyda Taylor and many others including the gallery owner himself, Jerry Winters. 32. Vandervort Court Entrance to Vandervort Court, W/s San Carlos St., north of 7th Av. Passageway of Vandervort Court Shops and Businesses: Carrigg’s Design Center Upstairs Directory: Hairpin Alley Desiree A. Cromwell Lic. Para Medical Esthetician Aromacology Skin Therapies MacKenzie Patterson Architect Specializes in Residences, Commercial & Public Buildings Carmel Institute for Family Business Leslie B. Kadis, MD Ruth McClendon, MSW The Carmel Institute for Family Business, established in 1984, offers a broad range of consulting and educational services to business-owning families and their advisors. Our overall purpose is to help families and their businesses succeed from generation to generation. Clout Creative Marketing / Advertising / Direct Response / Interactive Assisting companies make more money quicker through smart and effective marketing and advertising strategies. 33. Paseo San Carlos Paseo San Carlos Sign Entrance to Paseo San Carlos, W/s San Carlos St. between Ocean Av. & 7th Av. Shops, Businesses, Gallery and Café: Trotter Galleries Over the last twenty-one years, this gallery has consistently maintained its reputation as a valuable source for collectors by providing quality works of prominent early California artists, 1890-1940. Specializes in representative examples by formative artists such as Maurice Braun, Franz Bischoff, William Wendt, John Frost, Edgar Payne, Marion Wachtel, Armin Hansen, Mary DeNeale Morgan, E. Charlton Fortune, Joseph Raphael, William Ritschel, Granville Redmond, John Gamble and Percy Gray. Kocek Jewelry Carmel's oldest established jeweler, featuring acclaimed designer Kirkor Kocek, who creates hand-crafted jewelry on-site in his studio workshop using gold, platinum, diamonds and fine gemstones. He is happy to explore your design ideas with you or assist you in the selection of a design that will be reflective of your individual style and tastes Bubbly Fish Café One of the most unique culinary experiences on the Peninsula. A lavish celebration of indulgent tasting, featuring delicacies of caviar, champagne, pate, salumi, cheese, master-crafted chocolates, desserts and fine wines. Cima Collina Wine Tasting/Art Cima Collina produces artisan wines from small Monterey vineyards. Using a minimalist wine making approach Napa-trained winemaker Annette Hoff showcases the dedication of local Monterey County growers. The result – critically acclaimed artisan wines from local vineyards. Wines include vineyard designated Pinot Noirs, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Meritage, Petite Sirah, Merlot, estate Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. 34. Doud Arcade: A Shopping Village in the Tradition of Old Carmel Entrance to Doud Arcade, S/s Ocean Av, west of San Carlos St. Entrance to Doud Arcade, W/s San Carlos St., south of Ocean Av. Mural on Exterior Facade Painted by: Mary Miller Klepich, 1955 Restored by: Earl Bozlee, 2002 Shops and Businesses: A.W. Shucks Seafood Bar & Cocktails Light dinners in a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. One-of-a-kind seafood and oyster bar, featuring assorted oysters, delicious ciopino, assorted chowders, crabcakes, seafood appetizers and a cozy bar. Kris Kringle of Carmel Beginning their 20th Year of Holiday Magic, with personalized ornaments, whimsical gifts, Steinbach Nutcrackers, Byers' Choice, Dept 56, & Santas galore! Their store is designed to appeal to both the casual traveler and the most serious collector. They carry hundreds of ornaments that they will personalize for free. The Rockport Shop Features men's and women's shoes designed for comfort and engineered for support. They provide old-fashioned service and specialize in determining the correct fit. Narrow, medium, wide and oversize. Vasana Gifts & Candles The Carmel Hat Co. Hat specialty shop offers head gear from straw hats to knit caps to classic fedoras. With hundreds to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect fit. From the practical to the whimsical and everything between, hat lovers will find the right finishing touch for any outfit. Wicks And Wax From tapers to pillars, scented & unscented, in a variety of sizes. Crystal oil lamps, candlesticks and more. SockShop Carmel An amazing selection of stockings, socks, tights, leggings, mittens, scarves, hats, sexy tops and more! Huge selection of colors, patterns and sizes. Upper Level: Laurie Ellen Face & Body Salon Now featuring the latest in skin care products like Carol Maggio, Jan Marini, SkinCeuticals, and more. Plus we offer state of the art Enzyme Treatments, Facercise, Cellulite Treatments, Facial Peels, Micro-Current Toning. Maja Designs Diane M. Kelly, CPA, MS Lilli-Anne A Beauty Salon The River Beach Group, LLC Craft Studios: Jazzy Paolina’s Italian Restaurant Carmel's oldest Italian restaurant. Simple & delicious bistro cuisine, including pizzas, lasagne, sandwiches, cappucinos and homemade biscotti. Pets are welcome. Take-out and delivery available. Lu Lu’s Art & Craft Gallery Carrigg’s Unique Furnishings & Design Casual Island Men’s Wear & Apparel Robin’s Jewelry Handcrafted Sterling Silver Robin, a Carmel Native, designs and creates one-of-a-kind pieces in sterling silver with semi-precious stones, shells and other organic materials. She incorporates many local themes in her work. Bountiful Basket Expansive specialty food store and tasting room, where we have gained a reputation for personalized customer service and a passion for high quality food and wine products.

Carmel Art Association Presents MARTIN & WAGSTAFF SOLO SHOWS AND GALLERY SHOWCASE FEATURING CROZIER, NORDMANN & TETTE

Carmel Art Association
“Celebrating 80 years of local art”
Voted “Art Gallery of the Year” by the Carmel Business Association three consecutive years.
W/s Dolores St. between 5th Av. & 6th Av.
10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., Daily, except major Holidays.
Open to the Public at No Charge

“Founded in 1927, Carmel's oldest gallery features the work of more than 120 professional local artists, and is dedicated to presenting only the finest work for sale by artists living on the Monterey Peninsula.”

For more information, Online or (831) 624-6176.

Carmel Art Association Presents MARTIN & WAGSTAFF SOLO SHOWS AND GALLERY SHOWCASE FEATURING CROZIER, NORDMANN & TETTE

Thursday, September 4 – Tuesday, September 30, 2008

SOLO SHOW “AGRICULTURE: REVISITED” (Center Room):
Painter Gerard Martin exhibits “Agriculture: Revisited,” comprising new oil paintings vividly capturing the timeless quality of the farms, fields and workers of the Salinas Valley. View fourteen oil paintings including “Spreckles Harvest,” Harvest of Heaven,” Teamwork,” “Spreckles Barn,” Morning Harvest,” “The Team,” “Land and Color,” Morning Crew,” “Near Gonzales,” “Evening Warmth,” “Break Time,” “View from the Trees,” “Hot and Dry” and "Red Farmhouse.”

SOLO SHOW “ANCESTORS” (Beardsley Room South Wall):
Painter Jan Wagstaff exhibits new oil paintings on meditations on bodies of water drawn from our area’s coastal lowlands. View Jan Wagstaff’s Education, Employment, Activities, Exhibitions and four oil on canvas paintings “Anne's Lace," "Feather Grass," "Separating Light" and "Witness."

GALLERY SHOWCASE (Segal Room):
Artist Christine Crozier exhibits new oil paintings. View Christine Crozier's statement and two oil paintings “Come to the Fair" and "Padre's Garden.”

Painter Joseph Nordmann exhibits scenes of Monterey and Utah and western landscapes in oil and acrylic. View Joseph Nordmann’s brief biography and two oil paintings, “Above Carmel Valley" and "Country Club.”

Painter Richard Tette exhibits detailed California landscapes in oil. View Richard Tette’s brief biography and four oil on canvas paintings, “Sierra Foothills,” “Oak Hills," “Passing Storm" and "North of Mariposa."

Opening Reception Saturday, September 6, 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M.