What's the Plan?: Recent Episodes

Paul Weyant

What's the Plan is a weekly discussion with the government and business leaders of Monterey County, CA.

The show highlights the constant struggle to balance growth, industry and livability issues. Additionally, we cover events, entreprenuers, history and all of the things that make Monterey County Great!

A show to help people understand where we've been, what we're doing now and where we're going.... What's the Plan?

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This week Paul is out of town on business but he still made the time to host an interview with Monterey County 4th District Supervisor Wendy Root Askew. That interview can be heard at the 30 minute mark of this week's program. Preceding that, Dan and Mark discuss the Coastal Commission approval of a busway adjacent to Highway One in order to benefit MST and we dive into an appellate court ruling that says a local government agency wrongly collected a tax from local residents. A taxpayer advocacy group brought a lawsuit against the tax and are victorious.

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This week Dan Miller shares his experience participating in a candidates discussion with the editors of the Monterey County Weekly. On September 3, 39-year-old Vicente Arroyo of Salinas was arrested on suspicion of killing 80 animals at a property on Avery Lane in Prunedale. According to anonymous Monterey County Sheriffs Department sources, deputies on the scene were ordered by their command staff to NOT engage the shooter. At the time of this command, it was believed by sheriff's personnel that humans were being shot and killed by an assailant. Join us for the chilling details that will shock the senses. All that and more on this week's What's the Plan?

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This is our first show that will also broadcast on over-the-air radio. What's the Plan? is now heard at 6:00pm Saturday evenings on KION 1460 AM & 101.1 FM.

On this episode, we discuss the PG Mayor's race, also disturbing instances of animal cruelty make the headlines in Monterey County, STR's (Short-Term Rentals) in the news again and a grab bag of other topics.

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This week Paul, Dan & Mark discuss the BOS near-total ban on Short-term rentals (STR) in unincorporated areas of the county. Rent control in Salinas is discussed and the PG mayors race is grist for the mill too.

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Lot's of meaty PG news and comment this week. We discuss the 96-year-old retiree who faces eviction from her quarters at a local senior housing complex. The PG council race has our attention as well and more clean up comments about the just finished car week and a local restauranteur is cited for consecutive violations of California alcohol serving laws. All that and more on this week's edition of "What's the Plan Monterey".

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This week Paul, Dan & Mark discuss controversial remarks about Israeli's made by a Pacific Grove mayoral candidate. Big bond measures for PG schools and infrastructure in Marina are on the agenda for conversation as well.

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This week Paul, Dan & Mark continue conversation about the "speeding sheriff", Salinas' Fox Theatre is for sale, Pickleball controversy erupts in Carmel, STR rules violators in PG will face big fines under a new ordinance designed to deter STR's being turned into raucous party houses and much more!

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Paul is off this week, Dan and Mark are behind the controls. This week we discuss the secret plans for a massive Amazon warehouse in Salinas. More fallout from the "speeding sheriff" and other local commentary.

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This week Paul, Dan & Mark discuss the speeding sheriff of Monterey County and Dan Miller announces he's running for Mayor of Pacific Grove in the upcoming November 2024 General Election

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This week Paul, Dan & Mark discuss the Monterey County Sheriff who believes she's above the law - at least when it comes to speeding. Also discussed is the roundabout in search of a reason and antipathy towards motor vehicles could be responsible for the death of a woman near Pt. Lobos

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Paul, Mark and Dan discuss are house numbers coming to Carmel? Former congressman recommends streamlining local government services and Dems say paying teens for sex shouldn't be a felony

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Paul, Dan & Mark discuss Marina growth, PG council, affordable housing mandates and solutions

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This week's "What's The Plan Monterey?" dives into Mark's Mountain West adventures, water tax billing being combined with your property tax, and the proposed MST Surf line bus route along Highway 1 in Sand City.

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Paul and Dan discuss this week's news. Mark is out this week exploring the American wilderness.

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call Mark and Dan discuss all the news from around the county

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Paul, Dan and Mark talk about a PG DEI critic's near expulsion from the economic committee for using the term "Poke the Bear" when referring to PG's council on DEI and other news from around the county.

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Paul and Dan talk about the Monterey County News of the week.

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Paul, Mark and Dan discuss the week's news.

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Salinas gets it done for 1/5th the price of Carmel and Monterey - Mark and Dan dive into why this is.

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Pacific Grove Police Chief continues her leave of absence and much more from around the county

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Quotes from today's show,

Rental Registry - "it came out this last week that so far in Monterey, only 55 % of the rental units are in compliance with their rental registry."

SB9 - "What the judge said was yes, SB 9 allows for lot splitting. You can build two homes on the lot or more, but there's nothing in the the law that says that the homes that you're building have to be priced as affordable homes or low -income housing."

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In this week's show Paul, Mark and Dan discuss multiple issues including listener comments, Marina's Downtown, Salinas City Budget Shortfall, and the MPC board's disfunction (among many other topics).

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In this episode of of WTP, Paul, Mark and Dan discuss Monterey County issues this week focusing on the Salinas City Council, PG City Manager, ATC Hotel, the 100 person brawl at seaside high and much more.

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in this week’s episode, Paul, Mark and Dan discuss the alleged corruption of the Project Homekey CFO, the Tin Cannery Hotel, the Salinas Hotel that wasn’t and much more.

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This week Paul Mark and Dan discuss:

  • Tin Cannery impact on tax revenue
  • The Wild Fish owner's back taxes
  • Wave street Studio gets liquor license
  • County Sheriff
  • PG council's inquiry rule detailing interaction between council members and city employees.
  • The selection process for a new city manager is discussed, with emphasis on finding a candidate who can work effectively with citizens and employees.
  • There were over 30 applications for the Lovers Point grill concessionaire role.

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In this episode, Paul, Mark and Dan discuss the following issues (among others):

  • Housing affordability

  • The impact of regulations on housing costs

  • How the census impacts voting districts

  • The PG Skate Park

  • The situation with Marina High School and its facilities

  • The inequality in facilities among schools in the Monterey Peninsula School District

  • The passing of a bond measure that included projects for every school in the district, including Marina High School

  • The issue of students leaving Marina High School due to the lack of facilities and choosing to attend other schools

  • The work and impact of PK Diffenbaugh, the superintendent at Monterey

  • The implications of public employees getting paid more and the economic consequences

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This week Paul, Mark and

Dan talk about crime, PG Pensions and other news from around the county

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This week, Mark and Dan delve into:

  • The potential impacts of transitioning to district elections in Pacific Grove and Marina, two cities in California. It highlights how this shift could alter the political landscape in these areas.

  • The advantages and disadvantages of district elections, including the possible impacts on fair representation. They highlight the controversy around this issue, examining how it could affect the proportionality of representation in local councils.

  • The proposal of a mute button during Zoom public comments for council meetings in PG. They express concerns about the implications for freedom of speech and the First Amendment, underlining the potential for misuse and the risk of silencing legitimate public concerns.

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In this episode, Paul, Mark, and Dan discuss:

  • Big Sur Motorist drives off Cliff
  • Scott Weiner proposes speed controls on cars
  • The closure of the grill at Lovers Point and potential future plans for the location.
  • The implications of city council district elections and the disenfranchisement of voters.
  • The demographic makeup of Pacific Grove and Carmel, and the challenges of district elections in these areas.
  • The impact of changing bag policies on businesses and consumers.
  • Ongoing issues with governance and representation within Pacific Grove.

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In this episode, Paul, Dan and Mark delve into:

  • The current housing issues in Pacific Grove, particularly the challenges and criticisms associated with meeting state-imposed housing quotas.
  • The frustration over the state's top-down decision making and the need for more localized decision-making.
  • The controversial influence of public employee unions on public officials.
  • The feasibility of building more housing, with an insight into the order of prioritization: luxury housing and hotels, followed by middle-class homes, and eventually smaller apartments.
  • A close look at the financial state of Pacific Grove, including an in-depth discussion about the city's substantial $52 million debt to the state's pension fund.
  • A comparison between California and Florida's budget and politics.

Stay tuned each week for an enlightening conversation on these topics and more.

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Dan and Mark return to talk about CALAM, PGUSD and the news from around the county

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This week Dan and Mark are out.

Paul plays and comments on clips from a District 5 Supervisor forum co-hosted by the Monterey County Association of Realtors and FireSafe Council for Monterey County on Friday, February 2, 2024.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzOZJCRyTwk

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Weekly discussion of all things Monterey County.

No show notes this week

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  • Kaiser Permanente's Arrival in Salinas:

    • Planned opening of a Kaiser clinic in North Salinas by early 2025.
    • Potential competition for existing hospitals and a move to address healthcare service backlog.
    • Housing and Development Issues:

    • Discussion on the need for more healthcare facilities and housing to serve the community, especially considering the older demographic.

    • Potential for a new Kaiser Permanente hospital in Marina, reflecting on housing developments and community expansion.
    • Community and Real Estate:

    • Economic implications of new developments.

    • Discussion on the need for accessible healthcare and housing options.

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In this episode:

•Historical figures and their impact on the Monterey area.•Exploration of ways the community can engage with and influence local government decisions.•In-depth analysis of Ojai's hiring PG City Manager Ben Harvey.•Examination of how a city manager's decisions influenced the growth of pickleball in specific regions.•Discussion of different strategies to address homelessness, including innovative housing solutions.

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This week Dan, Mark and Paul discuss Monterey County issues. Here are some of the top stories:Discussion on

  1. Traffic Circle Projects: Examining the $200 million plan for traffic circles on Route 68 and debates over its necessity and efficiency.
  2. California's Financial Challenges: Analyzing California's $68 billion deficit, the proposed wealth tax solution, and its potential impacts.
  3. Healthcare Costs in Monterey County: Investigating why Monterey County has some of the most expensive hospitals in California and the resultant medical debt burden on residents.

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Join hosts Paul, Mark, and Dan Miller for insightful discussions that captivate the community. This week, Dan leads a passionate debate about pickleball in Pacific Grove, stirring up a mix of opinions and controversies. Our hosts also tackle the delicate balance between city resources and community interests. Whether it's local politics, neighborhood disputes, or cultural shifts, 'What's The Plan Monterey' offers a platform for lively debate and community engagement. Tune in, weigh in, and stay informed about the matters closest to your home."

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In this episode, Mark, Dan and Paul talk about the lawsuit against Monterey County due to noise at Laguna Seca, the large waves along the Pacific Grove waterfront and the Monterey County Weekly article discussing PG Councilman Luke Celletti.

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In this episode Paul, Dan and Mark talk about roundabouts, Christmas and the Pebble Beach Pro-Am changing its format

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I this week's episode, Dan and Paul soldier on (Sans Mark) and discuss Bill Burleigh, CHS Stadium Lights and PG Attempted Murder.

As a bonus, Dan gives a stirring rant about the impacts of illegal immigration.

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In this episode, Paul, Dan and Mark talk about various stories from around the county. And Dan, uncharacteristically pays a few compliments to local leaders.

At the end of the episode, Paul references an article (Paul incorrectly says it’s the Atlantic, but it’s the New Yorker) detailing the Biden family history:

https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2022/08/22/the-untold-history-of-the-biden-family

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Mark, Paul and Dan talk about the Monterey Tree Lighting, Local Sports, Salaries of Local Public Servants and much more!

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Palma football, and Penninsula news with Paul, Mark and Dan

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NEW UPLOAD!!! Dan Mark and Paul discuss this week in Monterey County!

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As always, Paul, Mark and Dan bring their take on the local news. This week it's Hwy 68 Traffic Circles and the ATC - with a little state and National news mixed in with some Schiff talk.

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Paul, Mark and Dan talk about Carmel High field Lights, the rental registry, P.G. spending sales tax raises on employee raises and much more.

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In this episode, we take break from local news and discuss Dan's extensive history as a music promotor and script writer of the Bo Derek movie 'Horror 101'

You can watch Horror 101 free at:

https://tubitv.com/movies/100006371/horror-101

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In this week's episode, Dan, Mark and Paul discuss:

  • Racist and Pro-Hamas Events Around the County
  • Pacific Grove Housing Policies
  • Old Fort Ord and Marina Developments
  • NPS and DLI Future in Monterey

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In this episode of "What's the Plan Monterey County," your hosts Paul Weyant, Mark Carbonaro, and Dan Miller delve into a diverse range of crucial topics affecting the Monterey County community.

First up, the Monterey Peninsula Water District's takeover of Cal-Am. We try to unpack the intricacies of the takeover, exploring its potential impact.

Additionally, we discuss the ongoing Monterey Airport expansion project, the housing proposal at the Pacific Grove NOAA building site, Del Rey Oaks Housing, and lastly, the episode covers the contentious issue of the severance payout of the Carmel School District Superintendent.

Tune in each week for an engaging and informative discussion on these pressing matters, as "What's the Plan Monterey County" keeps you informed about the latest developments in your community. New episodes every Saturday at 1030 AM!

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In this episode we discuss the recent Salinas City Manager change, a housing report Pacific Grove Planning Dept commissioned, M&S Building Supply closing and much more.

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Mark, Dan and Paul discuss the Salinas City Council condemnation of a DeSantis Fundraiser, Diane Feinstein's Replacement, the plan for 84 houses at the PG NOAA building and much more.

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Dan, Paul and Mark talk about the Airport, PG Hotel Construction and other news.

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Dan, Mark and Paul discuss news from around Monterey County during the past week. Water district eminent domain, homeless hotel in Marina, PG DEI and car/bike accident in Salinas.

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WTP in now available as a podcast, only.

This is the first episode and we explore this week's Monterey County issues: The Monterey housing registry, PG Hotels, a proposed Bar inPG and various other topics...

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On the final WTP, Paul, Dan & Mark discuss the PG DEI committee and their anti-First Amendment actions, Car Week impacts on the peninsula and condo development in America's Last Hometown

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Paul, Dan & Mark talk PG settlement for bum legal advice

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Discussion of the Pacific Grove City Council voting to terminate the city manager effective 06 28 23

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Paul, Dan & Mark discuss the latest PG news: Developer makes bid for city parking lot and water credits, big burned up mansion gets demo permit, wooden pool ladder keeps PG kids from getting electrocuted etc etc etc

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Paul chats all things District 4 with Monterey County Supervisor Wendy Root Askew

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Restauranteur Kevin Phillips joins Paul to discuss the hospitality business on the Monterey Peninsula

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Dan Miller and Mark Carbonaro join Paul to discuss Monterey adding housing to the Del Monte Center parking lots? DEI stuff in PG, what about that giant vacant restaurant space on Fisherman's Wharf? Will anything ever happen with it? All that and more...

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Salinas public policy advocate Kevin Dayton joins us to discuss water, housing and taxes.

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This week Paul and guests discuss the fate of the LaPorte mansion following the devastating recent fire. Conflict of interest allegations beset a Salinas city councilmember, save the Pat Hathaway home from redevelopment? All that and more on this week's edition of "What's the Plan?"

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Grab bag! Paul and Mark have a wide ranging conversation that includes the little house with the chapel in PG, housing requirements, local plane crashes and parklets moving and sidewalks shrinking

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Paul and Dan discuss the proposed Monterey Rental Registry and the latest Pacific Grove news

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This week Paul talks with State Senator John Laird in a wide-ranging conversation about water, housing and other issues in California

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State Senator John Laird announces he will help beleagured cities like Carmel-by-the-Sea fight the housing mandates imposed on them by the State of California.

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This week Paul, Mark and Dan discuss the big political news in Monterey County: 5th District supervisor Mary Adams announces she will not think a third term to the Board of Supes

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This week Paul discusses the bank bailouts, rent control in Monterey, changes in mortgage laws and other issues of economic import with Dr. David R Henderson, retired professor of Economics (NPGS) and Senior Research Fellow at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University

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Pacific Grove resident and former columnist with the PG Press Dan Miller joins the show to talk about all things PG - Fun stuff!

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Paul & Mark discuss local news including the possibility that locals may soon have more water they can use to expand their homes.

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Paul and Mark discuss the potential Cal AM eminent domain case and the out of court settlement between the City of Pacific Grove and former PG police officer Michael Gonzalez

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This week Paul and Mark discuss the water district offer to buy the Cal Am water system

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Paul talks with restauranteur Kevin Phillips about the local restaurant industry and how the winter weather has impacted those businesses

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Former PG Press columnist and city councilmember Dan Miller joins the show to discuss all things PG

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This week Paul visits with interim president of Monterey Peninsula College, Dr. Marc Zacovic

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Monterey County 4th district supervisor Wendy Root Askew joins Paul for their monthly chat

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This week Paul discusses all things Salinas with city councilman Steve McShane.  McShane represents District 3 which includes Old Town and south Salinas.  He is also CEO of the Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce.  In this wide-ranging discussion Paul and Steve explore developments in Salinas that enhance the growth and economy of the region.

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This week Paul's guest is Dirrick Williams, founder and CEO of BLAAC.org.  Dirrick received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theology and Certificate of Teaching & Communication from Advantage College, Sacramento. Is a certified life coach and leadership development trainer. Dirrick formerly served corporations as Vice President of Sales, Operations, Director of Operations. Dirrick is a licensed and ordained minister and former Director of Operations for non-profit “Imani2k.”  For more information go to: https://www.montereycountyweekly.com/blogs/news_blog/a-former-couple-is-sentenced-for-a-violent-racist-attack-on-a-black-man-outside/article_0f0925c8-5b70-11eb-a964-bf24006d6375.html  

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This week Paul talks with Mitch Sawhney owner of The Whiskey Club in downtown Monterey about whiskey and spirits.

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This week Paul has his monthly visit with District 4 supervisor Wendy Root Askew.   They discuss flood control issues in the county, affordable housing and  resident services developing in the East Garrison community of Marina. 

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Paul talks with noted historian and author Neal Hotelling about the history of the AT&T Pro-AM at Pebble Beach going all the way back to the days of its beginnings by founder Bing Crosby

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On this episode Paul has a fascinating conversation about the weather with KION-TV's award-winning meteorologist Dann Cianca.  Listen in to learn all about the weather patterns in our Monterey Bay Area and Salinas Valley. 

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Paul and Mark discuss storm recovery efforts and local politics

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This week a  best of show with noted economist, author and professor emeritus (US Naval Postgraduate School) David R. Henderson discussing economics and how to look at the world through the lens of an economist

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Paul's guest Jeremy Talcott works with the Pacific Legal Foundation, an organization dedicated to protecting private property rights through advocacy, education and litigation. 

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Dan Miller of the Pacific Grove Press makes his last appearance on the show as a representative of the PG Press newspaper.  The paper is changing hands and will have a new owner as of January 1, 2023.   On this episode, Paul, Mark and Dan discuss more local issues, PG, Monterey, Salinas. 

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On this episode, Paul and Dan discuss all matters PG and the Monterey Peninsula.  Good current events discussion on local issues. 

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This week Paul talks with District 4 supervisor Askew about planning and land use issues in Monterey County

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On this episode Paul and his guest Satish Rishi (executive director of Habitat for Humanity) discuss efforts to provide more affordable housing options for local senior citizens through a new program designed to ease the building of ADU's (Accessory Dwelling Units) adjacent to single-family homes. 

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This week Paul talks with Salinas city council member Steve McShane.  Paul and Steve discuss downtown revitalization and other economic issues in Monterey County's largest city. 

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Paul, Dan & Mark discuss all things  PG - fun stuff!

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This week Paul and Mark discuss the results of the November election for mayor and council in Monterey, PG & Salinas.  They also discuss the Coastal Commission's 8-2 vote approving the Cal Am desal project for Marina

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Paul talks about the economy and monetary policy with economist David R. Henderson.  Dr. Henderson is most recently retired from the Naval Postgraduate School where he taught economics for over 30 years.  He's also a noted author, writer and a former advisor on the President's Council of Economic Advisors from 1980-82 (President Ronald Reagan). 

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Paul and Dan discuss some of the crazy out-of-this world news happening in Pacific Grove over the recent past.  The town is going nuts and Paul and Dan chronicle it for you.

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This week Paul talks with representative Jimmy Panetta (D-Carmel) about issues affecting the Central Coast and his background growing up in Monterey County. 

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Paul talks with Monterey City Councilman Dan Albert, Jr. who is running for the position of mayor in the November 2022

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This week Paul talks with Monterey City Councilman Tyler Williamson who discusses his vision for Monterey and his run for the office of the Mayor in the November 2022 General Election

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This week Paul talks with Pacific Grove city councilmember Jenny McAdams

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Sheriff's candidate Joe Moses discuss law enforcement issues in Monterey County with Paul 

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This week Paul talks with PG native, local realtor and city council candidate Debby Beck about growing up in PG, it's past, present and future

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Paul and Dan jump into all things PG as they discuss November's Mayoral and council election and give a run down on the various candidates vying for seats on the council 

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This week Monterey County 4th District Supervisor Wendy Root Askew joins Paul to discuss issues in the district and around the county 

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This week Paul talks with congressional candidate Jeff Gorman

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On today's show Paul talks with Marv the BBQ guy who is realizing his mission to feed quality BBQ food to the hungry and poor in Monterey County.  On the second half of the show, Paul and Mark discuss some of the local issues of the day including the continuing travails of a certain member of the Pacific Grove city council

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Paul and Mark discuss student loan forgiveness, a vexatious litigant is "shaking down" local businesses for big bucks for alleged ADA violations, car week recap and more!  

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This week Paul talks with long-time local car dealer Otis Stevenson about buying and selling used cars.  A fascinating conversation about cars, buyers and the culture around cars - perfect for Car Week on  the Monterey Peninsula.

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Back for an encore appearance!  PG Press managing  editor Dan Miller joins the show to discuss all things PG and peninsula.  Tune in and enjoy!

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Mark joins Paul to discuss the Carmel Pumpkin Roll, PG Homekey project stalls out, political hypocrites and the ATC

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He's baaack!  Back by popular demand is a brand new program with Daniel Miller, managing editor of the Pacific Grove Press community newspaper.  Paul and Dan discuss all matters peninsula including news of Carmel, Monterey, Seaside, Marina and of course, the piney paradise of Pacific Grove. 

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Paul is off this week so while he's away we present an encore program from June 2022 with columnist and co-publisher of the Pacific Grove Press community newspaper, Dan Miller.

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Paul and Kevin discuss the issues of the day concerning Monterey, PG and the hospitality industry on the Monterey Peninsula

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Paul's guest is Monterey County District 4 supervisor Wendy Root Askew and they discuss important issues facing Monterey County

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Paul and Mark discuss the shark bite victim, desal, the new PG city attorney and other issues of local interest

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An encore presentation of a previously heard show with Pacific Grove artist Richard MacDonald

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Paul talks with Nataliya Anon, a Ukrainian native who discusses the effect of the Russian invasion on her country.

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This week Paul's special guest is Dan Miller, Pacific Grove native and co-publisher of the bi-weekly newspaper Pacific Grove Press.  Paul and Dan discuss all issues Pacific Grove and get Dan's take on why the "Piney Paradise" is the crazy place we all love

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Paul and Mark discuss the news  of the day - Wrongful termination lawsuit in PG is the big story

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This week Paul's guest is local sculptor Richard MacDonald.  MacDonald has created many beautiful works of art for both public and private display.  Paul and Richard discuss his work and life.  

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Mark is Paul's guest again this week and on this show they discuss the cancellation of the 2022 edition of the Concours on the Avenue.  They delve into the problems with "Toilet-to-Tap" water purification and the loss in Superior Court by a PG councilwoman who attempted to stifle the free speech rights of a local journalist

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This week Paul and Mark discuss the upcoming sheriffs race in Monterey County, the supes race and the fate of the walking trail through Del Rey Oaks

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This week Paul talks with David Hober, chief of police for the City of Monterey.  Paul and the chief discuss modern law enforcement and policing in a tourist-centric city like Monterey. 

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This week Paul talks with Christine Gruber, former president of the Board of Directors of the Pacific Grove Feast of Lanterns.  Ms. Gruber is now involved with an effort to create a new event and organization for Pacific Grove.  The organization is the Youth Ambassadors of Pacific Grove and the proposed event is a "Summer Lights Festival".   Paul and Christine discuss the history of the old FOL and her ideas for creating a new organization dedicated to bringing the Pacific Grove community together. 

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This week Paul discusses Proposition 13 and its history with Jon Coupal, president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association

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It's Paul's monthly conversation Monterey County District 2 Supervisor Wendy Root Askew.  Paul and Wendy talk about Prop 13, public works, Laguna Seca Raceway and transient occupancy tax (TOT) hotel/motel tax revenues in unincorporated Monterey County. 

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This week Paul visits with his friend Kevin Phillips, owner and operator of four the Monterey area's most popular restaurants.  Paul and Kevin discuss the restaurant biz and other areas of general interest. 

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Paul's guest this week is Stephen Frank, publisher of the online news blog California Political News (www.capoliticalnews.com).  Steve and Paul discuss the issues of the day facing the Golden State. 

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Mark joins Paul for a semi-regular visit as they discuss local issues including overspending in Pacific Grove and a tax measure voters will face in April

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Sports journalist Ted Sobel joins Paul to discuss some of the biggest sports stories of his life

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Paul's monthly visit with Monterey County supervisor (District 4) Wendy Root Askew.  

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On this week's show Paul talks with foreman Louis Panetta of the Monterey County Civil Grand Jury.  We learn about the jury and its charter and what issues it's recommending for elected officials. 

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Paul and Mark discusses the issues of the day as they impact the peninsula cities of Monterey, Pacific Grove and Seaside. 

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This week Paul talks economics with Professor David R. Henderson.  Henderson is a professor emeritus of economics at the US Naval Postgraduate School.  He's also a senior research fellow at the Hoover Institution at Stanford University and during the 1980's he served on the President's Council of Economic Advisors during the first term of President Ronald Reagan.  Henderson is the co-author (with Steven Globerman) of a new book "The Essential UCLA School of Economics".

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This week Paul has his monthly on-air visit with Monterey County District 4 supervisor Wendy Root Askew

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This week Paul talks with Michael De Lapa and John Ferro from Landwatch Monterey County. They discuss land use issues in Monterey County.

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This week Paul's guest is Monterey Mayor Clyde Roberson who discusses his time as mayor and city councilman and talks about Monterey today and yesterday

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This week Paul discuss all things Pacific Grove with Mayor Bill Peake.  Topics discussed include the hotel project at the ATC, the failed sales tax measure coming back again, district elections and public safety.  

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This week Paul discusses a myriad of local issues with Monterey County Supervisor for District 4 [Seaside, Marina, & Salinas] Wendy Root Askew. 

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This week Paul talks with Steve John, executive director of the Monterey Peninsula Foundation - the non-profit that hosts the annual AT&T Pro-AM golf tournament at Pebble Beach.  Paul and Steve discuss this years tournament and what fans can expect to see at Pebble Beach in 2022!

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This week Paul talks with his good friend Kevin Phillips about the state of the hospitality industry on the Monterey Peninsula

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Paul talks with Salinas City Councilman Steve McShane who has just been appointed president of the Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce

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Paul and Mark discuss the biggest local stories in Monterey County including congressional redistricting, the elm tree in PG, the ATC project et al.

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Wendy Brickman discusses upcoming events on the Monterey Peninsula during the holiday season

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Paul and RIchard Matthews discuss efforts by naysayers to limit or eliminate entirely short-term rentals in all of unincorporated Monterey County

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Paul and Mark discuss current land use issues on the Monterey Peninsula

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Paul Weyant talks with sheriffs deputy Joe Moses, who has announced his candidacy for sheriff of Monterey County in the June 2022 election

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Moe Ammar is the longtime head of the Pacific Grove Chamber of Commerce.  He recently announced his retirement after 30 years at the chamber.  Paul and Moe discuss his long career and what it takes to make a successful chamber and business community. 

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Steve McShane represents south Salinas and the downtown area of the city on the council.  On this program, he and Paul discuss the revitalization of the city's center core. 

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This week Monterey restaurateur Kevin Phillips joins Paul to discuss the economics and other challenges facing the restaurant industry post-pandemic

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This week Paul Weyant discusses issues impacting residents of Monterey County with 4th district supervisor Wendy Root Askew

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Wendy Brickman is a veteran public relations specialist with her own business here in Monterey County.  For over thirty years she has been informing businesses and the community about interesting events and happenings throughout the area.

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This week Paul's guest is news and current events commentator Stephen Frank, publisher of the California Political Review - www.capoliticalreview.com 

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Landwatch  executive director Michael De Lapa joins Paul to discuss his organization

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Radio broadcaster Mark Carbonaro joins Paul to discuss current events in the Monterey area

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Amy Herzog is executive director of Visit Carmel - an organization that helps tourists better enjoy all that Carmel has to offer

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Barbara Dickason discusses the special Heart of Carmel online auction

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Green is a professor emeritus from Cornell University

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Kevin Phillips owns four restaurants on the Monterey Peninsula, including Abalonetti Bar & Grill on Fisherman’s Wharf – smack in the middle of the tourist area. He purchased Abalonetti in partnership with the late James Gilbert about a decade ago. That was after graduating from busser to waiter­­, then to manager and chef.

He also owns the Whaling Station in Monterey and the Beach House on Lover's Point in Pacific Grove.

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Mr. Long is the Founder and Director of Aviation for Wings of Humanity, a Scottsdale nonprofit that provides underprivileged children with aeromedical transportation from remote areas to and from hospitals where they can get the best care possible.

Find out more at:

https://wingsofhumanity.org/

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Alex Kirkwood is CEO of the Kirkwood Collection (a family of hotels in California)

More about Alex and the Kirkwood Collection at:

https://www.kirkwoodcollection.com/

April Montgomery is Owner Company NamePacific coast family entertainment

Find more about Links Club:

https://www.linksclubgolf.com/

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https://montereywines.org/

Bio of Kim Stemler:

Executive Director of Regional Wine Association. Forward-thinking and community-focused executive leader with an uncanny ability to bring people together and weave a story into compelling, relevant messaging and action. Readily adapts communications and policy strategies to maximize engagement to the target audience. Serves as the key company representative and industry spokesperson to align stakeholders, facilitate partnerships, and manage media, policy, and community relations. Successfully facilitates legislation. Leverages an expansive professional network to achieve measurable improvements and organizational goals.

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Interview with outgoing City Manager Craig Malin

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Interview with Kevin Phillips and the Pacific Grove Chamber of commerce covering restaurant news and upcoming events in Pacific Grove.

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Janine Chicourrat’s is the general manager of the Portola Hotel & Spa and oversaw a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) redesign of the 379-room property. 

Chicourrat spent eight years at the world-famous Pebble Beach Resorts, rapidly moving up through the ranks from room division manager to general manager of Casa Palermo & The Spa at Pebble Beach, and later The Lodge at Pebble Beach.  

She is the current President of the Monterey County Hospitality Association. She also served as a hospitality representative for the United States Agency and International Development (USAID) program, working with the City of Monterey, Country of Croatia and The City of Dubrovnik on economic development. 

Chicourrat currently resides in Carmel with her husband, Dave Potter, a Monterey County Supervisor.

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About Neal Hotelling

The Monterey Peninsula on the central coast of California is an area rich in history. As a local historian, Neal Hotelling specializes in relating the histories of John Steinbeck and Monterey Peninsula golf.

He researched and wrote Pebble Beach Golf Links: The Official History (Sleeping Bear Press, 1999) which was awarded Golf Book of the Year by the International Network of Golf and co-authored Pebble Beach Heritage Collection (Pebble Beach Company, 2006). Pebble Beach: The Official Golf History (Triumph Books, 2009).

http://nealhotelling.com/

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Terry Wecker has been the office manager for Custom House Realty since it was formed in 2001. Prior to that he worked in other real estate companies, in other capacities for about twenty-five years. In addition to his position with Custom House Realty he is noted for his energetic service to the community, and the list of his positions is a long one. He has been Secretary of the Rotary Club of Monterey for over 10 years.

He is past President of the Monterey High School Instrumental Music Boosters. He has managed and coached Pony Baseball. Terry is Chairman of the Monterey Rock and Rod Festival, a benefit for Gateway Center of Monterey County, Inc. and he is past president of Gold Coast Rods, of the Compari Club; he is a director of Gateway Center. Plus, he has served his real estate community as a past director, treasurer and chairman of many committees throughout the years.

Neil Larkin Manager and PGA Professional at Monterey Pines Golf Club.

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Mary was elected Monterey County Treasurer-Tax Collector in November 2010. She has served Monterey County since 1987 in positions of increasing responsibility including 12 years as Assistant Treasurer-Tax Collector. Mary also serves Monterey County as Vice President for the Monterey County Public Improvement Corporation, and as a member of the Monterey County Deferred Compensation Committee, and Budget Committee. Mary belongs to numerous professional organizations, including the California Association of County Treasurers and Tax Collectors where she serves on the Executive Board as 1st Vice President; National Association of County Collectors, Treasurers and Finance Officers; Association of Governmental Accountants; Government Finance Officers Association; Government Investment Officers Association; and the International Council of Airshows. Mary holds a Bachelor’s degree in Management and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Golden Gate University.

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Steve Hauk is a playwright, documentary screenwriter, and journalist. His plays include A Mild Concussion – the Rapid Rise and Long Fall of an Idealistic Computer Genius, based on the true story of an exploited figure in the computer world, and The Floating Hat, on the relationship of Charlie Chaplin and the deaf artist Granville Redmond. Also, Fortune’s Way, or Notes on Art for Catholics (and Others), Reflections of an American Mossad, and recently completed, The Cottages – Scenes from Lives Interrupted. Narrated by the late Jack Lemmon, the films he wrote – Time Captured in Paintings: The Monterey Legacy and The Roots of California Photography: The Monterey Legacy – were winners of CINE Golden Eagles, a national honor for documentary filmmaking out of Washington, D.C. As a journalist he has interviewed figures as diverse as Muhammad Ali, Paul Newman, Dame Judith Anderson, and many people who knew and were friends of John Steinbeck. With his wife Nancy he founded the gallery Hauk Fine Arts in Pacific Grove, California. In 1998 he co-curated with Patricia Leach the inaugural art exhibition at the National Steinbeck Center, This Side of Eden – Images of Steinbeck’s California.

Stephen's Fine Art Studio: http://www.haukfinearts.com/

Change.org petition to support conversion of the Point Pinos NOAA Building to a a world-renowned oceanographic center for public education focused on the Pacific Ocean at Asilomar State Beach and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary:

https://www.change.org/p/jimmy-panetta-rededicate-the-noaa-building-in-pacific-grove-for-the-public-benefit?original_footer_petition_id=13380746&algorithm=promoted&source_location=petition_footer&grid_position=8&pt=AVBldGl0aW9uAPNzsgEAAAAAYINC2ykIfTU3MjE5NWVmNg%3D%3D

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In 1997, Paul Miller bought The Carmel Pine Cone, a weekly newspaper which has been published since 1915. Under his leadership, the newspaper has returned to its small-town roots while specializing in innovative news stories of vital interest to the people of Carmel and the Monterey Peninsula. And some of those stories have been of much broader interest.

In this interview we discuss Paul's professional history and his thoughts on local issues.

Learn more and subscribe to the Pine Cone for free at www.carmelpinecone.com

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In this episode, we speak with Tim Thomas, fourth-generation native of the Monterey area. Tim is a popular speaker and lively tour guide. For 16 years, he was historian and curator for the Monterey Maritime & History Museum and has worked with the Monterey Bay Aquarium, California State Parks and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.

email: timsardine@yahoo.com

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Kevin Phillips owns four restaurants on the Monterey Peninsula, including Abalonetti Bar & Grill on Fisherman’s Wharf, the Whaling Station near Cannery Row and the Beach house at Lover's Point.

Also, in this episode, Kevin reveals some of the details about his 4th restaurant coming soon (after an extensive remodel) - the unnamed restaurant is located at the end of Fisherman's Wharf.

Websites:

https://abalonetti.com/

https://beachhousepg.com/

https://thewhalingstation.com/

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Interview with Mr. Rick Barnett. Learn more about Rick and the Pasadera Concours at the following sites:

https://pasaderaconcours.com/

http://montereymotorsports.com/

https://montereymotorsportpark.com/

https://redwoodmg.com/

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Guests in this episode:

Chris Berkert - Carmel and Monterey Relator offers tips for buyers and sellers on the local real estate market

Barbara Dickason - Barbara is the CEO/President of the Interfaith of Carmel charity and the Joining Hands Benefits shop. She tells us about all of the great work being done through her organization to help with the local homelessness crisis.

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Interview with Tyller Williamson - learn more about Tyller at https://monterey.org/City-Hall/City-Council/Meet-the-Mayor-and-Councilmembers

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Interview with Susie Brusa, CEO Rancho Cielo

Rancho Cielo provides opportunity to break the criminal cycle for marginalized youth and first-time youth offenders through education, vocational training, cultural affirmation and healing, arts and recreation.

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Interview with Wendy Root Askew 

Wendy was sworn into office on January 5, 2021 to represent Monterey County District Four. The Fourth District includes Del Rey Oaks, Marina, Sand City, Seaside, a portion of southwest Salinas, and unincorporated portions of Marina, Seaside, Salinas, and the former Fort Ord.

Learn more at:

https://wendyrootaskew.com/

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LandWatch founder Michael DeLapa/DeLapa Consulting is an independent consultant who specializes in organizational strategy and interim executive roles. His recent assignments include interim executive director of the California Ocean Science Trust; consulting vice president of marketing and strategy for FotoNotes; interim chief operating officer of New Leaf Paper; interim vice president of marketing for the Cleantech Group; and business consultant to Mal Warwick Associates/Donordigital and Frans Lanting Studios. In addition to founding LandWatch, Michael has launched and managed a variety of business and nonprofit ventures, including the California Fisheries Fund; the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Foundation; Sea Studios Foundation; and Arena Solutions. Michael received his Master of Business Administration degree and Public Management credential from the Stanford Graduate School of Business and its Public Management Program. He also holds Master of Science and Bachelor of Science degrees in biology from Stanford University.

Presentations mentioned in this podcast:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/15DBSceaMbhUlYar7MOsQmlQ84yu7zdtI/view

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ffxjx7pVfMo6SLcredfuc-sHIIj7guaw/view

More about Landwatch at:

http://www.landwatch.org/index.html

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Interview with local attorneys Ralph Guenther and Clark Miller attorneys specializing in Bankruptcy 

https://guenthermillerlawgroup.com/

Also on the program is Paul Farmer of the Salinas Chamber of Commerce.

https://www.salinaschamber.com/

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Interview with Siobhan Greene

Siobhan joined Hospice Giving Foundation in August 2013, bringing many years of experience in nonprofit executive management, fundraising, board governance, and financial and analytic acumen to her position as president and chief executive officer. Before joining the Foundation, Siobhan was executive director of Voices for Children – CASA of Monterey County for over seven years and prior to that served three years as CASA’s director of development.

Siobhan has a bachelor’s degree from St. Joseph’s College in Brentwood, New York. She has served on numerous boards, is the past chair of the Juvenile Justice Commission for Monterey County and an active member of Carmel-by-the-Sea Rotary. She is also past president and an active member of the local chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Learn more about Siobhan at:

https://hospicegiving.org/

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Interview with Ryan Sanchez - Owner Carmel Bay Investments, Inc, RS Management Group, Bruno's Market, Surf N Sand Liquors, Corral Market, Valley Hills Deli and El Jefe Tequila.

Learn more at:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rysanchez/

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In this episode we speak with Mr. Moe Ammar and Peter Mounteer of the Pacific Grove Chamber of Commerce.

You can find out more about the PG Chamber at pacificgrove.org

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Interview with Joe Amelio of the Pacific Grove City Council

Learn more about at:

https://www.facebook.com/Elect-Joe-Amelio-for-Pacific-Grove-City-Council-671273486573888/

https://www.cityofpacificgrove.org/about-city/city-council/elected-officials/joe-amelio

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Interview with Jim Tunney 

Jim is a former American football official in the National Football League (NFL) from 1960 to 1990. In his 31 years as an NFL official, Tunney received a record 29 post-season assignments, including ten Championship games and Super Bowls VI, XI, and XII and named as an alternate in Super Bowl XVIII. He is still the only referee who has worked consecutive Super Bowls, and likely will be the only one to do so.

Learn more at:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_Tunney_(American_football)

https://jimtunney.com/

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Interview with Kelly Violini - CEO of Monterey County Fairgrounds

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Interview with Norm Groot of the Monterey County Farm Bureau.

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Steve John, past president of Ocean Honda and current CEO of the Monterey Peninsula Foundation talks about the Pebble Beach Pro-Am and the philanthropic mission of the foundation.

In the second half of the program we talk to the Chair of Whalefest Monterey, Mary Alice Cerrito Fettis. She has helped bring world recognition to Fisherman’s Wharf and Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, through the annual “Whalefest Monterey,” which celebrates the sanctuary, and empowers and inspires the public to preserve our oceans. Mary Alice has been the lead organizer, fund-raiser, and facilitator of this free, fun and educational/interactive family event for ten years! She is also the current President of the Board of Directors of Fisherman’s Wharf Association.

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Extra content at the end - the full interview with Mary Alice Fettis.

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This is an extra episode featuring the full 30 minute interview with Steve John of the Monterey Penninsula Foundation

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Lucy Iricheta and Terri Balderas from the Monterey Workforce Development Board to tell us about the great work they’re doing helping people find work in Monterey County and in the second half of the show we have Steve John who heads up the Monterey Peninsula Foundation and he speaks about his charitable work, the Pebble Beach Pro-Am and the PURE Insurance Championship

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Steve McShane, current member of the Salinas City council talks about a wide range of issues affecting Salinas: Housing, homelessness, future initiatives and the current downtown revitalization project.

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Interview with Tyller Williamson of the Monterey City Council - we talk about COVID, Homelessness, Housing and a wide range of issue affecting the city.

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ABOUT THIS EPISODE

Jake Reisdorf - Carmel Honey Company grew out of a passion for bees and good grades. Carmel Honey Company began as a “real world” homework assignment in 5th grade. Jake not only got an A on the project, but he created a business. Jake quickly discovered that he really enjoyed sharing his honey bee knowledge with classrooms and the community. Jake is currently a Senior at Carmel High School and continues to tend bees in Monterey County and build the Carmel Honey Company brand. 

Richard Bates is a boardmember at Fire Safe Council for Monterey - The council is a non-profit corporation committed to protecting lives and property from harm by wildfires, and to educating the public on wildfire dangers and how to reduce them. The council supports projects that help make homes, neighborhoods, and communities fire safe by management of natural and man-made resources.

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Carla Spencer, MSN, RN, CCRN is the Director of Emergency Services at Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital. She has been a Critical Care Registered Nurse for the past 18 years and has been with SVMH for the past 14 years. She started as a Staff Registered Nurse in the Intensive Care Unit and went on to become the Clinical Nurse Manager for Critical Care. In 2014, she assumed the role of Director of Emergency Services.  On the program she speaks at length about the county's COVID-19 response

Kris Spencer is the owner of MaxFit Meals. He founded the company in March of 2016 as a response response to hearing fitness buffs groan about the time and energy required to prepare meals with the right size and macros. Today he is helping dieters, fitness buffs and busy working professionals craft healthy, on-the-go meals. Learn more at maxfitmeals.com

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This episode we feature Rick Aldinger, Manager of the Big Sur River Inn.

We talk about improvements to Rick's personal history, improvements to the Big Sur area and difficulty operating in Big Sur during COVID-19

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Montrio Bistro, Tarpy’s Roadhouse and Rio Grill were recently sold to Ken and Mona Donkersloot.

In this episode we speak with Ken about his restaurants, the difficulty operating during COVID-19 and some of his local philanthropy work.

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Mark Carbonaro talks about his 30 year career with iHeart media and the changes to the media landscape as podcasts and alternative media start to take hold.

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In this Episode, we speak to Chris Barrera, Salinas Mayoral Candidate.

His campaign is focusing on:

  • Affordable housing
  • Homelessness
  • The City budget
  • Investing in our children
  • Fixing our potholes, sidewalks, and trees.

Learn more at:

https://barreraforsalinasmayor.com/

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Interview with Rudy Fischer - Candidate for the Board of the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District.

You can find out more about Rudy and his ideas at: https://rudyfischer.com/

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Interview with Mr. Jeff Gorman, Candidate for the 20th US Congressional District.

Jeff Gorman was born and raised in Monterey, living most of his life on the Monterey Peninsula. Jeff was educated in local Monterey K-12 schools and graduated from Monterey High School in 1986. From there, Jeff entered University of California Berkeley, earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science.

After graduating from college, Jeff began a 23-year career in the financial sector working for 5 years in San Francisco as a bond trader for GT Global. In 1997, he paused his career to intern in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and explore service opportunities at the Federal level.

His influences in Monterey civic service starts with his father, Dennis Gorman, whose career was engineering for the City of Monterey. His mother, Dottie Roberson, previously served on the League of Women Voters. Since 1979, she worked for Hank Ketcham Enterprises, which produces the artwork for the cartoon Dennis the Menace. She also sang in the Carmel Bach Festival for over 40 years, one of the longest serving volunteers. Additionally, Jeff's stepfather is a longtime elected leader and current Monterey Mayor Clyde Roberson. All have had a tremendous influence on Jeff, inspiring him to volunteer and to give back to the community.

Jeff believes our Community benefits from volunteer service. He has been active in Monterey civic life: He serves as Treasurer of the Armstrong Foundation, served as a committeeman for the City of Monterey, served as the President of Monterey's Serra Club, served for 12 years as Cal Alumni Club President and four more as Treasurer. Jeff Also volunteers with the Big Sur Land Trust and serves as a volunteer member of CERT- Community Emergency Response Team.

Jeff is a past Chair of the Monterey County Republican Party. He is an active member of the Lincoln Club.

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Zoë Carter is the Director of Operations at the Monterey County Business Council and Chair of the City of Monterey Architectural Review Committee.

A CSUMB graduate (Go Otters!), Zoë has deep roots in Monterey.

From helping coordinate the Panetta Institute's county-wide literacy program, to working with businesses and industries in the middle of the COVID-19 crisis at the Monterey County Business Council, Zoë knows what it takes to build a sustainable and affordable future for Monterey. Her background also includes time in the Policy Office of First Lady Michelle Obama and a stint as Communications Coordinator at the Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Zoë currently chairs the City of Monterey's Architectural Review Committee, where she oversees housing development proposals and building plans. She is also a founding member of the Salinas Valley Blue Zones Food Policy Committee, a member of the CSUMB Otter Student Union Board of Directors, and a long time YMCA Youth & Government Staff Volunteer.

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Interview with Mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Dave Potter Monterey County Board of Supervisors

Dave Potter previously served as the 5th District representative and Chairman of the Monterey County Board of Supervisors, board member and Chairman of the Fort Ord Reuse Authority, and board member and Chairman of the Monterey Peninsula Water Management District. In addition, he also represents the Board of Supervisors on the Natividad Medical Center Board of Trustees. Potter previously represented the Central Coast on the California Coastal Commission, and served on the Monterey city council and the Monterey City Planning Commission.

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Interview with Monterey Council member  Dan Albert Jr.

Dan is running for re-election to the Monterey City Council. Born and raised in Monterey, Dan Albert Jr. attended Monterey public schools and earned his Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Arts and his Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from San Jose State University.

Over the course of his 31-year career in education, Dan held various positions of increased responsibility.  He was a teacher, coach and activities director before becoming a district administrator.  In June 2016, he retired as the Associate Superintendent of Business Services with the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District.

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Interview with Jack Galante - local winery owner.

In 1969, Jack’s parents purchased a 700-acre cattle ranch in rustic Carmel Valley. While still maintaining a working cattle ranch, the Galantes, in 1983, began growing premium grapes on their property, specializing in Cabernet Sauvignon. In 1994, Jack Galante decided to build a winery and use some of his grapes to produce ultra-premium estate bottled wines.

Jack and his wife Dawn have both Galante and Dawn’s Dream – that opened five years ago.

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Carlos Lopez CEO and Founder of Latino Tax Pro

Carlos Lopez founded Latino Tax Pro with the following Mission, Goal and Vision:

MISSION -- to provide knowledge, professionalism, and community to those who serve the Latino taxpayer.

GOAL -- to help you grow your practice and increase your profits by attracting more Latino clients. 

VISION -- to provide the best tax preparation training available in English and Spanish.

Join us this week to learn more about Carlos, the upcoming tax season and all of the great work he's doing at Latino Tax Pro.

Learn more at: https://latinotaxpro.com/

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Gary Cursio retired from a 45 year career in the golf industry. He was the founder of the Monterey Golf Management Group that leased and managed golf courses throughout the Bay Area. He is now serving as the Director of Government Affairs for the Monterey County Hospitality Association.

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Steve McShane Candidate for County Supervisor

Steve McShane is a Salinas City Councilmember with more than 20 years of public service experience. He is running for Monterey County Supervisor for District 4 to ensure our kids can work, live, and raise families of their own in this region.

Learn more at: https://electmcshane.com/

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Edward King - Owner and CEO of Alliance Career Training Solutions and host of the Business Sense Radio Show on 1460AM and 101.1FM Powertalk.

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Kevin Phillips - Owner Abalonetti, Whaling Station and The Beach House Restaurants Owner  - Ablonetti, Whaling Station and The Beach House

Kevin has been involved in managing local restaurants for several decades. 

Join us for an engaging discussion about the past, present and future of restaurants on the Peninsula.

Learn more at: https://abalonetti.com/

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In this episode we speak with Chris Laver of the Club at Pasadera about the storied history of the club and its many ups and downs since it's 2000 inception, the effects of COVID and the many improvements the members are making to the club.

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Guests this week are

Jenny Macmurdo - CEO of Carmel Chamber and

Casey Aguilar Owner Monterey Bay Food Tours

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Rob O’Keefe - CEO Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau (www.seemonterey.com)

2019 – Present 

Previously served as chief marketing officer from 2013 -2019

Mr. O’keefe’s Marketing experience includes working in Las Vegas with R&R Partners (they are responsible for the famous Vegas “what happens here, stays here” campaign), he’s worked with gaming companies (such as Bally's and Paris Las Vegas) and has owned his own advertising firm.

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Prior to joining the aquarium in 1989, Ken was a writer and editor for 15 years with California newspapers, including the San Jose Mercury News and Monterey County Herald, with a focus on coastal, land use and environmental issues. He currently serves as Senior Communications Strategist for the aquarium.

A wide ranging discussion covering:

**- Ken's past and his appearance on Jeopardy

  • Monterey Bay Aquarium's current/past work with jellyfish, sea otters and less well-known sea life.

  • The Aquarium's extensive educational outreach efforts.**

- Programs during COVID. Webcams at https://www.montereybayaquarium.org/ and live streaming on Twitch (https://www.twitch.tv/montereyaq) - The long-term future of the Aquarium

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CAPT Rich Wiley starts the conversation detailing his history. He grew up in the Salinas Valley in the 1980s, then attended Berkeley. After graduating, he started his naval career as an NFO and transitioned to pilot.

In a wide ranging discussion we talk about the current state of the Monterey Naval Base during COVID-19 and the storied history.

Great conversation with a great local leader.

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In this week's interview we speak with Council member Ed Smith about a wide range of topics including the city's budget, TAMC plans for a regional railway from Watsonville and outdoor dining in Monterey.

“It will take a couple years to recover from the loss of revenue. We've built a budget we think is providing a balanced service level and retaining the things that are important priorities for the community.”

  • Council Member Ed Smith speaking about the monetary impacts of the pandemic. 

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This week, we talk with Carrie Theis about her history in Carmel, Hofsas House operations during COVID and current issues facing the Carmel City Council.

We talk with local restaurant owner Chef Pepe in the second half of the show about his journey to Carmel, the Visit Carmel organization, and the current outlook for restaurants in the Penninsula area as we reopen.

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Wendy Root Askew is a Candidate for County Supervisor and currently a MPUSD Board Trustee, Area 1

She also works as a political aid to Monterey County Supervisor Jane Parker, a position she has held since 2009. Her previous work experience includes owning a small business and fundraising for nonprofits. Askew earned a bachelor's degree in business administration from the California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo.

In this episode we cover topics including:

  • MPUSD issues and improvements

  • Current challenges Wendy hopes to work on as County Supervisor

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Mary Ann Leffel retired from a 45 year career in the banking industry, working for large and small banks all over the US, as she moved often with her husband while he was in the US Army.

Mary Ann's other notable accomplishments:

  • Former President/CEO of Monterey Business Council
  • Vice President of Monterey County Workforce investment board (Served for over 23 years!)
  • Board member on Monterey County Film Commission
  • Founding Principle at Veritas Associates

In this episode we discuss Mary Ann's contribution to the local community and her efforts at the Monterey Airport as they look to future expansion.

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In this show Paul talks to Kimbley Craig the CEO of the Monterey County Business Council about issues ranging from Beyonce to the great things MCBC is doing to support business during the COVID-19 crisis.

www.MCBC.biz

Here's a short bio of Kimbley:

Experienced executive with a demonstrated history of working in media, government, and in the public relations industry. Skilled in Management, Advocacy, Budgeting, Negotiation, Event Planning, Client/Member Relations and Media Relations. Strong professional with a Master’s Degree focused in Homeland Security from Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA.

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In this episode we discuss the following topics with Mr. DeLapa:

Garden road apartment development

Transportation - (rail extension proposal)

Water/Desal - Mr. DeLapa's article "How to waste a billion dollars in one minute." (Link)

LandWatch founder Michael DeLapa/DeLapa Consulting is an independent consultant who specializes in organizational strategy and interim executive roles. His recent assignments include interim executive director of the California Ocean Science Trust; consulting vice president of marketing and strategy for FotoNotes (Link); interim chief operating officer of New Leaf Paper; interim vice president of marketing for the Cleantech Group; and business consultant to Mal Warwick Associates/Donordigital and Frans Lanting Studios. In addition to founding LandWatch, Michael has launched and managed a variety of business and nonprofit ventures, including the California Fisheries Fund; the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Foundation; Sea Studios Foundation; and Arena Solutions. Michael received his Master of Business Administration degree and Public Management credential from the Stanford Graduate School of Business and its Public Management Program. He also holds Master of Science and Bachelor of Science degrees in biology from Stanford University.

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In this episode we talk to Mr. Farmer about a wide range of topics including:

  • Plan to Restore Commerce
  • Salinas Chamber Business Journal
  • Corona Virus resources
  • Industry Reopening Guidelines

Link to the Salinas Chamber Business Journal

From Mr. Farmers Linkedin page:

"I have worked in high-tech, low-tech, and many places in-between. Fresh out of college, I managed all aspects of a $1M+ grossing swap meet. I have travelled extensively, primarily in Latin America. I have worked in marketing and project management for Intel. I worked in Business Development and Sales for fatbrain.com I was Project Manager for a multi-million dollar software implementation for Merck Pharmaceutical in Mexico City. Since 2002, I am the founder and President of OfficeStar Training. I have been active on the Board of Directors for the Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce since 2008, and became CEO of the Chamber in April, 2012."

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MAYOR CLYDE ROBERSON Elected November, 2014 Re-elected November 2016 and 2018 - Term expires November, 2020 Born in Oakland, California, Clyde Roberson started his teaching career in 1968. His hobbies include hiking, biking, gardening, writing humorous poems about his years in the classroom, and volunteering at local schools.

He was privileged to teach in Monterey for 35 years. Among many highlights was teaching children of former students, and working with outstanding colleagues, parents, and community. He and his wife, Dottie, were fortunate to raise their children in Monterey where they attended local schools. Their grandchildren also go to school here.

Clyde is honored to have served 24 years on the Monterey City Council, including five terms as mayor, as well as four years on the Library Board. He started the Monterey Sports Center after his students and the residents repeatedly wrote that the city needed an indoor swimming facility, gymnasium, and exercise facilities. It was paid for when the doors opened.

He started the Neighborhood Improvement Program which has poured $75 million since 1985 into residential streets, storm drains, sewers, parks, and city wide projects. He created the Historical Preservation and Cultural Arts Commissions. He initiated the hotel moratorium to stop overdevelopment of our coastline.

Working with the people of Monterey, he helped to form neighborhood associations, develop the Window to the Bay and Recreational Trail, worked to keep the DLI and Naval Postgraduate School here, balance city budgets, and support local business.

His priorities are protecting our quality of life, listening to citizens, keeping Monterey safe and solvent, providing services to residents, and preserving our natural and historical beauty. He is committed to fixing the city’s infrastructure and retaining Monterey’s small town feeling.

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David Henderson is a Canadian-born American economist and author who moved to the United States in 1972 and became a U.S. citizen in 1986, serving on President Ronald Reagan's Council of Economic Advisers from 1982 to 1984. A research fellow at Stanford University's Hoover Institution since 1990, he took a teaching position with the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California in 1984, and is now a full professor of economics.

For more information about Dr. Henderson:

https://www.davidrhenderson.com/

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Craig Malin's career in community building and organizational development spans three decades.  Appointed Seaside, California's City Manager in December, 2015, Mr. Malin has experience with five cities, two counties, a metropolitan planning organization and park district.  He also helped found a model public school (more here) with a curriculum centered on environmental science and responsible citizenship.

To learn more about Craig Malin please visit his personal website:

https://www.craigmalin.info/