June 2023 Edition

Edition 4 June 2023

In This Edition
  1. FOR CONSIDERATION
  2. THE QUARRY
  3. HOUSING
  4. SOCIAL JUSTICE
  5. CLIMATE & ENVIRONMENT
  6. COMMUNITY UPDATES

Calendar

6/1- 8/1Pacificans Care Share of Care
MON 6/12/23 7 PMCity Planning at Council Chambers
TU 6/13 9 AMCounty Board of Supervisors Housing Element
7 PMSpecial Meeting Planning Commission on NCCWD
WED 6/14 7 PMPacifica Garden Club, American Legion Hall
MON 6/16 7 PMPlanning Commission
MON 6/26 7 PMCity Council
TUES 6/27 6-7:30 PMMeeting on the Sea Wall at the Community Center
Weds 7/5,12,19, & 26 6:30-8 PMSocial Unity Project Reading Circle
MON 7/3 7 PM Planning Commission
SUN 7/9 3:30 PMArtist Curator Talk, Sanchez Art Gallery
MON 7/10 7 PM City Council
MON 7/17 7 PM Planning Commission
WED 7/19 ? 7 PMSpecial Meeting City Council on NCCWD
MON 7/24 7 PMCity Council
SAT 7/2923rd Annual Kahuna Kapuna
SAVE THE DATES
SAT 9/30/23 The Pacifica Resource Center Palm-A-Palooza xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
10/15Pacificans Care Wine Tasting
TH 10/26/23A Rothstein Event

See posted calendars for:

  • Pacific Beach Coalition
  • Pacifica Library
  • Pacificans Care
  • Social Unity Project


Photos have been contributed by Leo Leon and Mark Hubbell

Pacifica Voice is eager to receive articles on issues important to our community. Please send them to editor@pacvoice.org for consideration.

To receive press releases and periodic messages from the Pacifica Voice please add your name and email address to our subscriber list – SUBSCRIBE HERE. FREE

FOR CONSIDERATION

Remembering Jane Northrop

By the Pacifica Voice Editors

Shortly after the passing of Jane Northrop on June 3, 2023, her son Patrick Northrup shared the following on Facebook: 

“I am sadly reporting that my mother passed away suddenly on Saturday night, June 3rd, 2023. The cause of death was from complications related to Huntington’s. She will be greatly missed by myself, my sister Becca Northrop and the countless friends and colleagues she met along the way. A memorial service will likely be planned at a later date. Thank you, and take care of yourselves and each other.”

Jane began working at the Pacifica Tribune in 1995 and retired from the newspaper in 2022. Her retirement party, held last summer in Half Moon Bay, was nearly standing room only. Jane was loved. Jane covered every aspect of news in Pacifica; and in November of 2022, this dedicated community writer received a standing ovation as she accepted her Lifetime Achievement Award from the San Francisco Press Club.

Peter Loeb, knew Jane well as a Pacifica Tribune reporter. “She was a good friend. Jane was a strong advocate for local journalism.”

Along with her family, and friends and the community of Pacifica at large, all her colleagues throughout her many years with the Pacifica Tribune, are deeply saddened by the passing of this wonderful human being. 

“I’m sure Jane has already made friends in heaven,” her Pacifica Tribune colleague and friend Jean Bartlett said. “And I like to think she is enjoying a Manhattan. Here’s to you, Jane, one of the Earth’s best!”

Happy Pride? – Rev. Terri Echelbarger 

mccchurch.org

There is great joy in marching, laughing, eating and seeing one another in large groups, visibly claiming a place of belonging. The Queer community is the most diverse in all the earth, every color and faith (and no faith), every disability and ability, a microcosm of natures creativity. 

Unfortunately, this year, there is also an undertow, an awareness of growing threat, especially to those who discover themselves outside a strict gender binary assigned at birth, expecting conformity in dress and behavior from first breath. 

Human Rights Campaign (HRC) reports that this year, as of this week, more than 520 anti-queer and anti-genderqueer bills have been introduced in the states, of which 220 specifically target trans humanity, more than 125 attacking healthcare for trans kids, more than 30 attacking us being free to pee, more than 100 attacking education curriculums, more than 45 banning drag. No matter where we live, these bills and laws have a chilling effect on the many we celebrate this month. 

This year the best way to support Pride is an everyday commitment to use the names and pronouns our neighbors claim as their own. We can save our judgement for ourselves. 

Rev. Terri Echelbarger 
Pacifica Resident
Metropolitan Community Churches
mccchurch.org

Stewardship of the Quarry & the Ramaytush Descendants: Muchia Te – Cata Gomes

muchiate.ilt@gmail.com

Hersha Puuhi! (Greetings!) 

‘Ek-raakat Cata Gomes. My name is Cata Gomes. Kaanak Rammaytush. I am a descendant of the Indigenous people of the San Francisco Peninsula, currently referred to as the Rammaytush. 

My Rammaytush ancestors are documented in records at Mission Dolores in San Francisco. Our family is fortunate in that the Mission records clearly state our Rammaytush ancestors’ Indigenous names (Muchia Te’ and Utchui), as well as our family’s village site – Timigtac* along Calera Creek in what is now referred to as Pacifica. The name, Timigtac, translates as, “The place of the whales.” The other known village site in Pacifica was Pruristac, “The place of the Sand Hill Cranes.” The suffix “-tac” at the end of a Rammaytush word is a reference to place, as seen in Timigtac and Pruristac.

Historically, the land surrounding both Timigtac and Pruristac was stewarded by the Rammaytush-speaking people living in these villages. Land stewardship is intrinsic to an Indigenous way of life. In those earlier times, this tending the wild was necessary to ensure perennial harvesting of building materials for homes, canoes and basketry, as well as for all food sources, including seafood, seeds, bulbs and tubers, wild greens and berries, acorns (harvested from tan oaks on the ridge), and freshwater clams from the creeks, etc. 

In 2022, I founded the Muchia Te’ Indigenous Land Trust. Muchia Te’ Indigenous Land Trust is a women-led Indigenous nonprofit with a majority Rammaytush-descendant-led board. We are currently working on rematriation of land and cultural revitalization here in our ancestral homelands. We lead bi-monthly basketry circles at TomKat Ranch in Pescadero. Another cultural revitalization program we have involves recovering the Rammaytush language. We have been working weekly with two linguists from UC Berkeley’s Indigenous Language Program (Breath of Life) to reconstruct our language. Class participants include Rammaytush relatives, our Board, and interested community members. A part of this language revitalization work is bringing back historical Rammaytush names to the coastal community. 

Muchia Te’ Indigenous Land Trust is an inclusive organization; we welcome support from many organizations along the coast. We are collaborating with schools, community members, and historical societies interested in accurate portrayals of California history from a California native perspective. We are also working with a growing number of environmental activists and other nonprofits, including Coastside Families Taking Action. 

I am grateful to have met many Pacificans, most recently at the public meeting on June 5th regarding the Quarry Use permit, and I look forward to meeting many more of you soon. Please remember: We have power when we stand together tunnetkay ‘umu (at the edge of the ocean) as one!

Warm regards,
– Cata Gomes

Muchia Te’ Indigenous Land Trust: muchiateilt.org

*The Timigtac village site is the area presently known as the Quarry and Vallemar district. While our Rammaytush ancestors harvested limestone for body paint and chert for tool-making at this location (for themselves and for trade), the harvesting was not the damaging, extractive process that came later with colonization.

THE QUARRY

Introducing Concerns on Reclamation – Suzanne Moore

If there was any doubt that the Quarry holds a special place in the minds and hearts of our community, doubts were dashed at the Pacifica Planning Commission this past Monday, June 5th. Our community packed the room. Callers also contributed to remarks which weighed heavily in opposition of the presented reclamation plan.

The community is puzzled for the reason for reclamation and wanted there to be an evaluation of low-fill and no-fill reclamation options. Several community members challenged the adequacy of the EIR and felt it did not correctly mitigate for pollution from trucks and runoff from landfill, traffic impact of 161 truckloads daily over 4 years, disruption of the existing creek and local flora and fauna, and risk for liquefaction. 

There were several suggestions on how the Quarry could best be utilized: continued open space and recreational use, a space for public education of climate change and sea level rise, sacred space for education of Ohlone history and stewardship, and a site for public education of a natured-based solution to sea level rise.

The Pacifica Voice Editors received two letters to share, and their tenor is quite different. Both letters summarize points echoed by other Pacificans. We now share those letters with our readership.

The Ultimate act of Reclamation – Steven and Nina Goodale

“My name is Steven Goodale and I used to play in the quarry pit mud as a kid. 

Tonight, I strongly argue that returning the land to its original indigenous stewards, the Ramaytush, would be the ultimate act of reclamation. It rectifies past injustices, fosters healing, and builds a more inclusive and sustainable future.

Indigenous communities have endured colonization and displacement for too long. Returning the land to the Ramaytush is a crucial step in acknowledging their deep connection and cultural heritage. It is an act of reconciliation and dismantling the legacy of colonization.

The Ramaytush possess invaluable traditional knowledge and stewardship practices that have been honed over countless generations. Returning the land allows for the preservation of their cultural practices, languages, and spiritual connections. It revitalizes their identity and ensures the sharing of ancestral wisdom.

This partnership promotes environmental stewardship, cultural preservation, and social justice. It integrates indigenous perspectives into decision-making, fostering inclusivity and diversity. Embracing indigenous leadership nurtures a harmonious relationship with the land and paves the way for a more equitable future.

Returning the land to the Ramaytush is a transformative act of healing, reconciliation, and justice. It honors their ancestral connections, revives their cultural practices, and propels us towards a more inclusive 

Pacifica, together, let us take this significant step towards a brighter, more sustainable future. 

The Indigenous California Coast.

Quarry Development Against the Public Will – Summer Lee

Last night was the first public hearing to consider perhaps Pacifica’s MOST ABSURD plan ever: To approve of a company who has no experience in reclamation, whose principal operators are serving federal prison time and barred from operating in San Francisco, to dump 1M tons of soil from unknown sources onto where Pacificans happen to enjoy nature. The City is heavily advocating for this project: they slipped into a rushed General Plan with the priority to develop the quarry next year – against the will of the majority of Pacificans.

 In the City’s advocacy (which we are so used to now that we forget this is not standard city planning practice), they are propagating misinformation, half-truths, and obfuscations (in my day we just called this lying). Among the biggest ones are that this dumping plan is not for future development (see the general plan), that this fill is required by Surface Mining and Reclamation Act (SMARA) (dumping minimally tested dirt is not a requirement), and that adding 161 truck trips a day for 4 years miraculously doesn’t exceed significant impacts on pollution and traffic. 

Last night, the planning commission heard and read countless voices who are against this plan — most poignantly, descendants of ancestors who had this land taken from them unlawfully. Countless Pacificans support the Ohlone Ramaytush whose descendants came from the Timigtac Village in the quarry. Absurdity crescendoed when decision-makers and staff tried to find bureaucratic justification to not consult the tribal descendants as quarry plans move forward. 

In this contest of absurdities, the rivaling scene is our planning commissioners, who ostensibly represent their neighbors, once again debating technicalities like the color of deck chairs on the Titanic, giving any credence to this proposal. They should flatly deny this project. Overwhelmed by the choices of colors for those deck chairs, commissioners delayed the approval for down the road. 

So, I beg my fellow Pacificans to keep adding your voices to reject outside pro-developer greed and destruction of our fragile and beautiful town.

HOUSING

Thoughts on the Coastside Farmworker Public Summit – Shauna Pickett-Gordon 

Montara

My hat is off to the Half Moon Bay City Council and the Planning Commission for their steady, dedicated work on the Housing Element, aka the City’s residential affordable-housing plans for the next eight years; and to the San Mateo County Board of Supervisors for their support. I’m strongly on the side of fair, decent, affordable housing for our farmworkers and all essential workers whose wages consistently put market-price housing out of range for them. As a member of Coastside Faith In Action, I’ve been attending the City Council’s meetings along with housing committee representatives from Ayudando Latinos A Soñar (ALAS), and I’ve been hearing from those most affected by the extreme lack of affordable housing here. In order to retain the Coastsiders who make our lives convenient, we need three tiers of housing: affordable, low-income, and extremely-low-income.

At these meetings and in social media, I’ve also heard questions and misgivings from others about the impact that such housing might have on their own market-rate property values, on neighborhood safety, and on traffic. Reading sourced and reviewed studies from communities that have built affordable housing, we find that the success stories tend to come from housing that is mixed economically and socially, not ghettoized. Some who need affordable housing would rather be in a quiet neighborhood, others in or close to downtown where they can walk to work, shops, and services. Our Housing Element proposes such a variety.

The need has been so great for generations, especially the need of our farmworkers, some of whom have now had to leave for more affordable places. Farm owners are reporting a labor shortage. Meanwhile, some folks want to know who will be eligible for housing, and when: Teachers? Farmworkers? Just those affected by the tragedy of January 23? 

The Council has been hearing and weighing all these questions and concerns. For safety’s sake, and to try to satisfy the public’s concerns, they can’t push housing through faster than reviews and ordinances require. At the same time, we can’t afford to lose any more essential workers. We have a lot to do in a short time to catch up, and our best bet will be to use multiple approaches. 

Last Saturday’s Farmworker Public Summit at the HMB Boys’ and Girls’ Club highlighted some approaches. 

* State Assemblywoman Diane Papan: Legislation is now in progress for farmworkers to receive $300 per week plus medical coverage. This is to offset the huge gap between minimum wage (average $32-35K per year) and Coastside rentals ($36K+/year, with many essential workers living two or more families in an apartment, 3-5 people to a single room, paying $1000/month/room). We also need to look at the minimum wage vs. minimum cost of living here.

* State Senator Josh Becker: Farmworkers pay billions in taxes to the state, but a $32K/year income makes you ineligible for Medicaid. Cost adjustment and earned tax credit need improvement to bring the numbers in line with reality. $75K/year gets you a comfortable life on the Coastside, while $32K/year may not even pay the rent, with nothing left over for necessities.

* State Assemblyman Marc Berman: Essential workers who have suffered wage theft need support in reporting their losses. (Ms Papan also mentioned wage theft.) Also, housing costs – especially current rents – need to be addressed while affordable housing is being developed. 

* San Mateo County Supervisor Ray Mueller: Instead of making farmworkers take unpaid time off from jobs for healthcare appointments, we should bring more frequent services to the field. We’re talking now to providers, including emergency care, about opening a facility here on the Coastside. We’re looking at adjusting the requirements for insurance, and at grouping insureds. Some farmers are willing to build housing on their farm lands. The County is looking at tax funds and inventorying buildable properties with potable water, wastewater, and required infrastructure. 

* HMB Mayor Deborah Penrose: Essential workers need decent wages in order to make rent. We can’t reduce rents on the Coast, but we can stabilize them, and we’re looking into ways. 

* HMB Community Development Director Jill Ekas: Some farm owners are now negotiating with the City for building on-farm housing.

* Farmworkers in the audience: It’s good to have the clinic in Shoreline Station, but we sometimes wait months for an appointment. Meanwhile, cancers have gone undetected. And, we need more mental health resources for farmworkers and immigrants.

* Rotacare Director Dr Christine Angeles: We’re currently trying to reopen for in-person visits on Wednesday evenings. We need help from our elected officials. 

* Redwood City Councilmember Alicia Aguirre and others: The tap water in Pescadero has been contaminated for 25 years, including at the high school. Farmworkers on minimum wage can’t afford to buy water. We need to fix this now.

A long list? It’s not nearly the whole picture of what needs to be fixed. But there are a few items we can talk about with our officials, who keep asking us to stay in touch, and to attend their meetings by Zoom or in person.

It’s horrible that January 23 had to happen in order to make us the privileged realize how our essential workers have been forced to live on the Coastside. But I’m glad to live in a community that cares. 

Tenants Belong – Menlo Together

Everyone deserves a roof over their head!

Tenant-focused workshops shine a light on housing insecurity and solutions

Almost half (42%) of Menlo Park residents are renters. Community feedback on the importance of safe and secure housing for ALL Menlo Park residents has resulted in our City Council prioritizing anti-displacement policies in the 2023-2031 Housing Element. But we can and should do more to support tenants and prevent displacement. 

In April, Menlo Together hosted a pair of Tenant Know Your Rights workshops, one in Spanish and one in English, at the Belle Haven Library. Representatives from Bay Area Legal Aid of SMC gave an overview of tenants’ rights and answered questions about what tenants can do and where they can turn when dealing with lease agreements, habitability issues, rent increases, termination notices, and eviction actions. 

At May’s Tenants Belong workshop, a bilingual Spanish and English event at Trinity Hall, community members gathered to hear a diverse panel of local tenants share their personal stories and discuss real solutions. Co-sponsored by Housing Leadership Council (HLC), Youth United for Community Action (YUCA), Faith in Action (FIA), and Menlo Together, this workshop brought together residents from Menlo Park, Redwood City, East Palo Alto and beyond to share a vision for a more inclusive and equitable community where Tenants Belong. For more information, see our blog post about the Tenants Belong workshop, which includes links to tenant resources as well as actions you can take to support renters in our community.

Take Action to Support Housing Justice in the San Mateo County Housing Element

Sign the Petition for a Stronger County Housing Element: Menlo Together is proud to be part of a coalition of individuals and organizations advocating for stronger programs in the County Housing Element, specifically to:

  • Rezone to promote fair housing throughout the County
  • Expand tenant protections
  • Address the housing needs of farmworkers, large families, people with disabilities, and those with extremely low income

###

Make a Comment at the Board of Supervisors Meeting
When: Tuesday, June 13, 9:00am – 3:00pm* 
Where: Virtual – https://smcgov.zoom.us/j/91835129034 OR By Phone: 1 669 900 6833 (San Jose Local). Enter the webinar ID: Webinar ID: 918 3512 9034, then press #

Do you have a personal story about housing insecurity or displacement? Do you agree that San Mateo County residents deserve a stronger Housing Element? The San Mateo County Board of Supervisors will review the County Housing Element at their next meeting. Let them hear from you!

*IMPORTANT: Don’t want to wait for hours for the housing item? Sign up to get a text or email when it’s time to comment. You will also receive talking points. Prefer to send an email? Send comments to: boardfeedback@smcgov.org

###

Make a call or write a letter to save Public Transit THIS WEEK as state leaders negotiate: Housing and climate depend on convenient, affordable transit. And public transit is in peril in the Bay Area and in California, as federal Covid relief funding runs out and ridership grows back more gradually. Advocates and transit agencies are seeking funding from the state to bolster transit and prevent cuts. We’re making some progress but not enough. The legislature approved its budget recommendations last week. They were better than the governor’s offer that included nothing for transit, but the legislators’ proposals are still not near enough to save transit. 

The focus to save transit has shifted to the top 5 decision-makers in the state – the Governor, the legislative leaders Senate Pro Tem Atkins and Assembly Speaker Rendon, the budget Chairs Ting and Skinner, plus incoming Speaker Rivas. Negotiations are ongoing, and it is critical for these leaders to hear from you before the budget deadline on June 15. Click here for numbers and talking points. OR Click here to send letters.

###

Attend the Bridging the Climate/Housing Gap seminar June 15, 6-8PM To reduce greenhouse gas emissions during the critical next 10 years in the Bay Area, we need a regional vision that is resilient to climate change, protects open space and biodiversity, and advances infill housing development. Many climate activists are unaware, however, that focusing housing growth in walkable, bikeable communities is one of the biggest opportunities we have to reduce Bay Area greenhouse gas emissions.

The Hub at Stanford Research Park, 3215 Porter Drive Palo Alto, CA 94304

###

Attend Menlo Park Juneteenth Celebration
When: Saturday, June 17, 2023, 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Where: Karl E. Clark Park, 313 Market Place, Menlo Park

Event info: Juneteenth Celebration (observed)

Enjoy learning, live music, and free food! Co-sponsored by Belle Haven Action, Belle Haven Community Development Fund, Belle Haven Empowered, and the City of Menlo Park.

HIP Housing 2024 Calendar Contest – NOW OPEN!

HIP Housing is a nonprofit that provides thousands of people in San Mateo County with a place to call home!

We are inviting all K-5th graders in San Mateo County to send us a fabulous drawing of a home, along with a quote on what home means to them. The winning 12 will be featured in our 2024 Calendar and have an opportunity to present their drawing to their local Town or City Council! For the lucky winners and their teacher/club leaders, there are also some gift certificates up for grabs!

We use our calendar to educate the community about our services, and it will be distributed to 3,000+ homes and businesses throughout San Mateo County.

If you know a young, budding artist in San Mateo County, be sure to get them involved! Entry forms are available on our website in both English and Spanish.

This is some summer break fun, not to be missed! For more information, please contact Nina Phillips at NPhillips@HIPHousing.org or visit the Calendar Project webpage.

Update on SB4, Yes in God’s Backyard (YIGBY) – Penny Nixon

YIGBY PASSES THE SENATE!!!

Rev. Dr. G. Penny Nixon is Co-Director, Peninsula Solidarity Cohort

Exciting update!!! Here is what Senator Scott tweeted at 7:06 PM on Tuesday, May 30th:Thank you, colleagues, for passing our legislation to allow faith institutions & nonprofit colleges to build affordable housing on their land.This bill will open up tens of thousands of acres of land for affordable housing. It’s a game-changer.

The bill,SB-4 Planning and zoning: housing development: higher education institutions and religious institutions, passed with a strong showing: 33-2-5. This is a result of a team effort by people across sectors. Multiple individual meetings with Senators as well as the many organizations across the state who sent in letters of support. San Mateo County was one of the most represented counties, with 40 nonprofits and faith-based organizations expressing their support for YIGBY. THANK YOU! We did it together. 

Now on to the Assembly–stay tuned!

SOCIAL JUSTICE

Empowering Youth Advocacy: Celebrating Lunar New Year in Jefferson Union High School District – Tyler Paing

I’m excited to bring forth a compelling story that highlights the power of youth and their commitment to cultural inclusivity. As young activists, I have recently been part of an inspiring initiative within the Jefferson Union High School District, which I believe would make a captivating news piece.

Together with a group of passionate friends, I embarked on a mission to establish an observance holiday for Lunar New Year within our school district. By collaborating with the teacher’s union and the district office, we successfully advocated for the recognition of this significant cultural celebration.

What makes this story particularly noteworthy is its alignment with the progressive steps taken by San Francisco, underscoring the significance of youth advocacy in fostering cultural diversity within educational institutions. Our endeavor serves as a shining example of young minds coming together, inspiring change, and promoting cultural appreciation within our local community.

By sharing our story, your network would not only shed light on the positive impact of youth-led initiatives but also inspire other young individuals to take action and celebrate the rich tapestry of cultures that make up our society.

Join Our Reading Circle – Social Unity Project

Over the course of 4-weeks (starting on july 5th), we’ll meet on zoom to discuss Resmaa Menakem work and his examination of racialized trauma and the pathway to mending our hearts and bodies. This experience is designed to help participants use a trauma and body-centered psychological approach to work through the damage caused by racism in America. Each week will include a review of the assigned reading, mind and body practices, and a community discussion.

Click Here to Sign Up

CLIMATE & ENVIRONMENT

Home Electrification Workshop – Nancy Tierney

On May 18, about 70 community members attended a workshop at the Pedro Point Firehouse: “Electrify Your Home and Save Money.” Thanks to the efforts of 350 Silicon Valley and a grant from Peninsula Clean Energy (PCE), the Pacifica Climate Committee (PCC) joined forces with the City of Pacifica to plan the event. Margo Meiman and Nancy Tierney, both with the PCC and the Climate Reality Project, co-facilitated the event. Among the speakers – Friday Apalaski with the Building Decarbonization Coalition and Council Member Christine Boles who described the PCE incentives. City Planning Director Christian Murdock provided an overview of City environmental initiatives including the recent Reach code (building electrification) update. Workshop attendees also heard the personal stories of people who have replaced their gas appliances with electric. The event concluded with informal discussion and induction cooktop demonstration. Based on attendee feedback, organizers will plan another home electrification workshop later this year and focus on how to make it happen in your home.

Resources for getting started:


You also can watch the Youtube recording from Pacific Coast TV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tZbNs9h7Gso

The Beach Boulevard Infrastructure Project and Community Resiliency – Cindy Abbott

The drumbeat of fear and associated misinformation is sadly raising its head again in Pacifica. A flyer for a meeting to “Protect Our Coastal Town” was recently distributed noting “Sea Level Rise will Damage Property Values at a cost to all of Pacifica”.

The flyer suggests we should “Visualize: a huge hole in central Pacifica lapping up onto Hwy 1”. It also states “We need a fifty-year seawall rebuild so that everyone’s sewer works and water and internet infrastructure works. Otherwise, all north-south infrastructure is damaged, cut or relocated at the cost of $100 of millions.”

Yes, as a result of the climate crisis, Sea Level Rise and (more applicable to our area) coastal erosion from increased ocean storm activity will indeed impact properties in Pacifica. And we do need to respond – but not out of fear.

It is true that the cost of moving infrastructure will be hundreds of millions of dollars; but so will an expensive and extended sea-wall, projected to last only fifty years, (at an estimated cost a few years back of $94-$120 million). Even worse, this fifty-year wall does nothing to resolve the actual issue of infrastructure in a place that will ultimately erode and need to be relocated. We procrastinate for 50 years and must then pay more to address the same issue.

It is not true that the only plan for Pacifica is to build an expanded high and wide concrete seawall and add more riprap. This plan benefits a small number of homeowners who have had the privilege to live within a short distance of the ocean (as I do) and encourages continued development in an area of climatic environmental hazard. This singularly-focused concept would obliterate our connection to the ocean, continue to cover sandy beaches with impassable rocks, damage coastal resources that are the right of all Californians and a multitude of species, and push this problem out to future generations.

We need to revive a thoughtful, multi-faceted, long-range planning process that doesn’t have the pre-prescribed outcome that accelerates hard armoring of the coast. The time to begin this work was actually years back, but some in the community dug their heels in against the visible reality that hard armoring comes with tremendous environmental and financial cost – and hasn’t worked. Let’s:

  • visualize a future for Pacifica that celebrates the wonders of our natural environment and restores it versus erecting barriers to it,
  • be a city that others look to because of the mindful way we bring people together in respectful discussion about the economics and financial resources that will be needed to modernize infrastructure and preserve our precious coastal resources, 
  • be a community willing to take action today to benefit future generations of all species,
  • be a people willing to put personal property “right” aside and act with moral responsibility.


Let’s also take responsibility for past local actions. As part of the fear and seeming need for an “enemy” to blame, too many keep trying to make the California Coastal Commission the bogeyman. In 1972, alarmed that private development was cutting off public access to the shore, Californians rallied to “Save our Coast”. The California Coastal Conservation Act, Proposition 20, was a citizen-driven initiative that declares “it is the policy of the State to preserve, protect, and where possible, restore the resources of the coastal zone for the enjoyment of the current and succeeding generations”. The ballot measure won by 10 percentage points (55% to 45%).

Now, just over 50 years later, this public action that set the ground for the California Coastal Commission to be formed, is needed more than ever as we set forward on a path to deal with the climate crisis. We should willingly step up and embrace the knowledge and guidance provided by the California Coastal Commission and actually partner with them.

Let’s stop flailing against having managed retreat as part of our conversation. After all, Pacifica in decades past, already self-initiated managed retreat by removing structures from Pacifica State Beach, Linda Mar and Sharp Park Beach. Let’s recognize that un-managed retreat led to 14 houses and three apartment buildings on Esplanade Avenue needing to be evacuated in an emergency, forcing residents to flee their homes with little warning. 

Anyone who walks the beach today knows that more structures in Pacifica are precariously perched at the edge. Pieces of patios, pipes and more are already falling to the fragment of the beach below, uncovered in riprap, in an unwinnable attempt to delay the inevitable course of nature.

Let’s not be misled that anyone that wants to have this important discussion, including members of the California Coastal Commission, are decreeing an immediately imminent timeline for wide-scale managed retreat. We do need to recognize though that there is a timeline: inaction and repeating failed efforts (seawalls and riprap) will continue Pacifica’s most recent course – a course that diminishes our coastline and emergency response.

The City of Pacifica has announced a series of meetings on Phase 2A of the Beach Boulevard Infrastructure Resilience Project. Attend and share your voice. Meeting schedule is as follows:

Meeting #1 Tues, June 27, 6-7:30 pm, Community Center Auditorium, 540 Crespi Dr. Pacifica
Meeting #2 Wed, Sept 13, Time/Place TBA
Meeting #3 Tues, Dec 5, Time/Place TBA 

Pacific Beach Coalition News – Lynn Adams

The Pacific Beach Coalition has had a remarkable turnout for their 10 monthly cleanups and one habitat restoration event in May. 137 volunteers from more than 10 schools including Menlo College braved a misty rain at Rockaway to clean the district. In May, over 500 volunteers cleaned our shores and streets or restored habitat providing well over 1000 volunteer hours. 

A new crop of teenagers are in training to be Junior Site Captains to help lead the PBC cleanups each month. This program helps them develop skills to be environmental leaders in their schools and our community! A special shoutout to Junior star, a high school Sophomore, Arwyn Clancy Parast, for leading the training for 9 new Junior Site Captains this past week. If you know a youth interested in this program have them contact Info@pacificbeachcoalition.org. This program is for high school students.

Want to do more?

Did you miss the Pacific Beach Coalition Earth Day Celebration? Watch it now and be inspired! How do you “INVEST IN OUR PLANET?”

The Pacific BeachCoalition doesn’t just clean the beaches. Volunteers always target the parking lots and often canvas the nearby streets and shopping centers. On the first Saturday of the month, there is a cleanup of San Pedro Creek. With just a small team this month they removed over 200 pounds of trash and recycles. 

Perhaps you’ve seen me on the beach. I may be clear…

Meet the Velella velalla, also known as a “by-the-wind sailor.” These enchanting organisms are not plastic but are beautiful hydrozoans that drift across the seas, showcasing a vibrant blue hue. They navigate the oceans, harnessing the power of the wind and currents.

These fascinating creatures play a crucial role in oceanic food chains and contribute to the delicate balance of marine life.

Let’s celebrate the diversity of our oceans and inspire others to embrace the beauty of Velella velallas and their fellow marine inhabitants.

Share this post to help dispel the misconception about these captivating creatures being plastic trash! 

Click Here to Read more about them!

The Right Tree in the Right Place – Paul Totah

Tree City Pacifica

Pacifica is a land of many microclimates, and a tree that thrives in Park Pacifica may not do well in Sharp Park. Many Pacificans, hoping to increase their property value and combat climate change, have contacted Tree City Pacifica wondering which trees to plant as they are not sure which tree will thrive where they live.

How do you plant the right tree in the right place?

One of Tree City Pacifica’s key members, Sandy Ayers (a gifted landscape architect) will give a talk to the Pacifica Garden Club June 14 at the American Legion Hall in Rockaway at 7 p.m. about this topic. Please consider coming to listen in.

He will also share a city pamphlet “Tree for Pacifica” that shows different zones for tree planting and review a few of the guidelines below. He will against planting trees that will grow tall right below power lines, that will shade solar panels, or that will block views that you have grown to love. He will also advise taking into consideration how a tree’s roots might affect a home’s foundation or a sidewalk.

His advice will mirror the guidelines you can find on this Arbor Day website.

  1. Height. Will the tree bump into anything when it is fully grown? [sizing guide]
  2. Canopy spread. How wide will the tree grow?
  3. Is the tree deciduous or evergreen? (Will it lose its leaves in the winter?)
  4. Form or shape. A columnar tree will grow in less space. Round and V-Shaped species provide the most shade. [shape guide]
  5. Growth rate. How long will it take for your tree to reach its full height? Slow growing species typically live longer than fast growing species.
  6. Soil, sun, and moisture requirements.
  7. Fruit. No one wants messy droppings on busy sidewalks.
  8. Hardiness zone indicates the temperature and wind extremes in which a tree can be expected to grow. Check with your zone in the Trees for Pacifica brochure. (Arborday.org hardiness zones lookup.)

Sandy will also speak about the need to consider soil type, ecology & plant families, space, intent and your willingness to maintain your tree. He recommends looking at the Sunset Western Garden Zone 17 guidelines (Northern Calif. Coastal Strip) and taking into account our specific regions in Pacifica as well as our mild and wet winters, our cool summers, our annual rainfall and the wind along the coast.

He advises identifying the soil you have. Is it loamy, shallow & rocky, sandy, or mainly clay? As for intent, you should consider why you are planting your tree. Is it to maintain privacy, shade your home or garden, provide habitat to wildlife, beautify your home or help other plants you have thrive?

In addition to Sandy’s recommendations, also consider guidelines from PG&E and YourLeaf.org. Following these simple guidelines will go a long way to ensuring that your tree will thrive in a way that will help you thrive too!

COMMUNITY UPDATES

Larger Than Life: The Artwork of Tony Natsoulas, at Sanchez Art Center

Larger Than Life: The Artwork of Tony Natsoulas, features large scale figurative ceramic sculptures with a lighthearted humorous touch, curated by Phil Linhares. Opening concurrently are Resilience, adapting to challenging events, a group show featuring the artwork of 30 SF Bay Area artists, acting as ambassadors on the theme by applying their artistic talent to broaden people’s perceptions and ability to develop resilience personally, as well as for the greater good for humanity and the earth, plus members of the Art Guild of Pacifica’s group show, Sea & Forest. All three new exhibitions will open with a reception in the galleries on Friday, June 9, from 7 to 9 pm, with live music by Mojazz Trio. 

Tony Natsoulas was five or six years of age when his father began teaching psychology at UC Davis and the family moved to the university town. From an early age he was exposed to art during family trips to New York that included visits to major cultural institutions. It was a more local museum trip though where he first saw a piece by David Gilhooly (a ceramic casserole dish topped with a frog goddess of fertility) that grabbed his interest. Taking a mixed media art class the summer after fifth grade, he was first exposed to working with clay, and he’s never stopped.

Exploring what to do after high school graduation, a neighbor and art teacher suggested he visit Robert Arneson who was part of burgeoning art scene at UC Davis in TB 9. Artist Kelly Detweiler, an assistant to Arneson at the time, has a memory of Tony as a kid coming into the studio and “taking to clay like a fish to water, with a ton of ideas. He showed up with such exuberance, drive and a desire to make things”. This excitement for creating with clay hasn’t diminished. 

Exhibition curator, Phil Linhares, describes Tony as a “creative human dynamo”. In his introduction to the show, Linhares notes that “working large scale in clay requires physical strength, endurance and a hyper-active imagination. Possessing these qualities, Natsoulas stands in line with iconic Bay Area artists Peter Voulkos, Viola Frey, and Robert Arneson”.

Natsoulas’ formal collegiate education began at Cal State Sacramento before moving to UC Davis where he earned his Bachelor of Arts. Together with time at the Maryland Institute College of Art and a summer study program at the Skowhegan School in Maine offered learning experiences with accomplished artists including Wayne Thiebaud, William T. Wiley, Manuel Neri, Roy de Forest, Mark di Suvero, Francesco Clemente and Judy Pfaff. Robert Arneson, Tony’s early teacher and graduate advisor, remained his mentor and guiding light. In 1985, Natsoulas earned his MFA from UC Davis. He was named by the Smithsonian as one of the top 100 craft artists in the United States in 2004.

Influenced by 1960’s-1970’s counter-culture artists such as Big Daddy Roth Rat Fink and Art Crum who were making funny grotesque comic works, Natsoulas fell in love with caricature. And yet, he has also taken inspiration from Meissen porcelain figures. Paradoxically, Natsoulas seamlessly pairs these potentially contradictory artistic moods into an exuberant piece of one of his favorite singers and musicians Annie Lennox. Commenting on the work, “I wanted to show not only her beauty but where she came from and what she believes in. I put her in a baroque dress and hairstyle because she always seems like royalty to me. The circle of neon represents the organization she started to further the rights and issues of girls and women around the world. I still listen to her music as I work, and while I made this portrait, I listened to her beautiful voice and nothing else.” 

Considering the current social and environmental anxiety increasingly prevalent in these times, Sanchez Art Center staff developed an exhibition focused on artists creating visual stories about personal and climate resilience and this crucial skill for coping in the 21st century. The resulting exhibition “Resilience, adapting to challenging events” showing in the East Gallery presents the works of 29 Bay Area artists. 

For additional insight into the artist and his work, come to the Artist/Curator Talk on closing Sunday, July 9 at 3:30 pm.

MGP Anderson’s oil on canvas, titled “Courage” depicts a woman walking through a wasteland followed by trouble, but her resilience is the strength to keep going forward as it’s the only way out. Working in mixed media, Joy Broom layers elements from the natural world and family history, dismantling and reassembling pieces from old photo albums and scrapbooks, putting together a new “safety net” in these uncertain times. In, Some of My Best Friends are Buddhists (oil on nested panel, Barbara Kibbe reflects on how bad things happen, but staying calm and recognizing that “everything changes” and “there is suffering” doesn’t need to take the fun out of life. Kibbe’s statement notes, “The painting is meant to show life throwing stuff at us from all directions – the kind of stuff Buddhists float on like the sea.” Commenting on her joyful work, Last Laugh (acrylic, tissue, paper, pencil,ink), Dobee Snowber shares how “Aging is all about resilience. The art of knowing that the only constant is change and it is really about how we respond. Laughter is resilience, possibly in its purest form.” 

Sue Hammerland notes, “ It’s easy to become overwhelmed when thinking about how we’re forever altering (if not destroying) the wondrous and beautiful natural world we live in. In my work, I’m looking to create visions of alternate worlds in which flora and fauna adapt and flourish (Against All Odds Tidepool), creatures meet to discuss human folly (Pangolin, Bat and Hornet Convene to Talk About Humans), and an extinct bird can survive in the desert and guard an egg (Dodo In the Desert).” “I Will Survive” (acrylic) was titled by ConReis as an homage to the famous Gloria Gaynor song as it defines the power of nature to prevail no matter what. A deer represents both the fragility and strength of the moment in the piece punctuated by the colors of fire and burnt trees and smoke. Yet there is light to represent hope.

The community is invited to attend a free gallery walk and engagement event focused on Resilience on Saturday, June 24, 2:00 pm.

The Art Guild of Pacifica is presenting a member group show in the West Gallery, Sea & Forest. Pieces include assemblage, ceramic sculpture, paintings in acrylic, oil and watercolor, fiber, mixed media and more, reflecting artist’s passion for nature and the inspiring environments that surrounds us. Artworks include Jan Michaels’ “Sea and Tree”, a mixed media with collage piece creates the textures of palms over a layered ocean. Sheila Finch’s “Wonderlich Path to the Meadows”, oil, depicts the light coming through the trees and dappling the ground of the path in one of our local San Mateo County Parks. Capturing both the sea and forest in a dramatic mountain-scape, Julie Stock created her piece “Redwoods, Fog and Pacific Ocean” in ceramics. A softly powerful oak tree is honored by G. Lee Boerger’s piece “One of Many”, mixed media. The Art Guild holds four themed exhibitions a year, plus an annual members’ show, and a holiday show and sale each December. Small works and cards are also available from the AGP Shop. 

Sanchez Art Center is located at 1220 Linda Mar Blvd in Pacifica, about a mile east of Highway 1. Following opening night, the galleries are open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 1–5 pm, and by appointment, through July 9. The opening, talks, and gallery visits free as part of the center’s focus on “Creating Community through Art”. For more information call 650.355.1894 or visit SanchezArtCenter.org.

Skyline College – Sherri Wyatt

Reprinted from Skyline Shines the Weekly Newsletter of Skyline College

For students, May is the month to pull all-nighters and write papers or cram for exams. For faculty and staff, the tension to meet deadlines and students’ needs become more challenging as the student interactions increase. It is that final push to the end of the Spring semester’s finish line before one can finally take a breath. With increasing tension to meet deadlines and prepare for exams, this type of prolonged stress can increase anxiety and other negative affects to the mind and body. Participating in activities that allow one to ease those anxieties and rest the mind helps improve one’s mental well-being. Lowering stress helps students to retain information and perform better during exams. While for faculty and staff, the work morale increases. In collaboration with Active Minds Club, the Skyline College Library provided activities and hosted events to encourage our Skyline College community to take a break. 

Active Minds Club hosted the “Slime Decorating & Spin Art!” event on May 2nd and “Making Sensory Bottles!” event on May 3rd. These activities in the library helped students take a break and enjoy creating different types of slime art and sensory bottles. 

In celebrating De-stress Week during the week of May 15, games, puzzles, and Legos were provided for students to take a break from their studies. On May 16, the Library partnered again with the Peninsula Humane Society (PHS) Volunteer Program. Therapy dogs Jethro the black lab mix, Buddy the Great Pyrenees mix, and Gracie the Australian Shepherd visited from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. and gave students, faculty, and staff the opportunity to pat and cuddle their stress away. On May 18, PAT cat Pumpkin the Ragamuffin also helped the Skyline College community take a break and de-stress around 1:00 p.m. until 2:15 p.m. Since de-stressing with furry friends has been clinically proven to make one feel better, these two events helped over 100 participants to smile and relax. Right after the Therapy Dogs visit, students and faculty joined Adjunct Librarian Jessica Silver-Sharp in the classroom to “Take a Tea Break” and practiced mindful meditation while taking in their Jasmine tea and learning the history behind such practices. Visitors were also encouraged to participate in the interactive activity, which included writing the word “tea” in one’s own language and learning about the history of tea and Boba.

These activities and events would not be possible without the collective efforts of Library Director Gabriela Nocito and Librarian – Outreach and Equity Coordinator Pia Walawalkar, Skyline College Personal Counselor and Active Minds Club advisor Perry Chen and Active Minds club members, PHS Volunteer Program, Adjunct Librarian Jessica Silver-Sharp, ASLT Instructional Aide II Sherri Wyatt, TLC Retention Specialist Raymon Gutierrez, Learning Commons Instructional Aide II Monique Ubungen, and student assistants Harry Tun and Jonathan Zhang. Also, thank you to all of the Skyline College community for supporting holistic approaches for developing a healthier campus environment.

Pacifica Library Events

Middle Scholars: Sustainable Summer – CD Spinners
Tuesday, June 13 at 3:30pm at the Sharp Park Library Use a CD spinner kit to explore STEM concepts including color theory, Newton’s disc, and centrifugal force. This program is for participants ages 12-18. Please register in advance
REGISTER HERE

Puppet Art Theater: Tommy’s Pirate Adventure
Wednesday, June 14 at 3:30pm at the Sanchez Library
This show is oceans of fun! Tommy and his dog Fifi are enjoying living surrounded by the ocean on Alligator Island, at least until the pirates show up. Pirate’s X’s and mixed up treasure land Tommy and his dog in big trouble with Barnacle Billy and the evil Captain Rigatoni. Confusion and mayhem lead to fun as Tommy ends up playing pirates for real in “Tommy’s Pirate Adventure.”

Creative Journaling
Wednesday, June 14 at 6pm at the Sharp Park Library
Create beautiful journal spreads while simultaneously reaping the stress-relieving benefits of art! Nicole Momberg leads participants through step-by-step directed drawing sessions to help them to create gorgeous illustrations in their journals while promoting mindfulness.
REGISTER HERE

Bug Out: Beetlelady – Amazing Arthropods
Thursday, June 15 at 3:30pm at the Sharp Park Library
Learn about the differences between arthropods, insects, and arachnids, play with building your own insects, meet some fascinating live arthropods, and learn about record-breaking bugs..

Movie Matinee: A Bug’s Life
Tuesday, June 20 at 3:30pm at the Sharp Park Library
Come join us for a movie showing of A Bug’s Life – a misfit ant, looking for “warriors” to save his colony from greedy grasshoppers, recruits a group of bugs that turn out to be an inept circus troupe. Rated G, 1hr 35mins. Light snacks provided

Wildmind Animal Show: Wild Rainforest
Wednesday, June 21 at 3:30pm at the Sanchez Library
An anteater, prehensile-tailed skink, coendou, and macaw visit the library! These fascinating animals from around the world live throughout the endangered tropical rainforests. Learn about their habitats, lives and their roles in the great web of life.

Cunumacué: Family Dance Class Festejo
Thursday, June 22 at 3:30pm at the Sharp Park Library
In this intergenerational dance class you will learn to dance the Festejo (the most popular and festive rhythm within Afro-Peruvian culture) and learn about instruments that are unique to Afro-Peruvian music. This class is with live music and includes an introduction to Afro-Peruvian culture, dance class, and Q&A.

Pacifica Poetry Night
Thursday, June 22 at 6:30pm at the Sharp Park Library
Celebrate coastside poetry and community! Pacifica Poetry Night is a virtual gathering open to all, whether you’re curious about poetry or already madly in love. The night will open with a reading from Pacifica’s very own Poet Laureate, Toni Mirosevich. Reading will be followed by a community open mic. You are invited to share a poem of your own, read a piece by a favorite poet, or simply listen alongside other literature lovers.

Silly Library Puppet Show
Wednesday, June 28 at 3:30pm at the Sanchez Library
This 50 minute puppet show entertainment is filled with silly puppets and is fully engaging & interactive with a level of humor and candor that spans all ages. The kids will roll around on the floor laughing so much with our silly stories and characters!

Pacificans Care

It’s 2023 Share of Care time!

Every year at this time Pacificans Care launches its annual Share of Care Drive campaign to raise much-needed funds for the children, youth, families, and seniors served by the Pacifica social service agencies we support. 

The annual Share of Care Drive started in 1982 with Pacificans Care board members sitting at a card table in front of Safeway gathering donations by offering a ‘Share of Care’ certificate for a $5 donation to what is now a major online fundraising effort to ensure that our neighbors in need succeed in developing a healthy, self-sufficient, and improved quality of life.

The campaign kicks off on Thursday, June 1st and runs to August 1st with the goal of generating $20,000. For more details on the 2023 Share of Care Drive click here: SHARE OF CARE

Visit Pacificans Care at the Wednesday afternoon Farmer’s Markets: Pacificans Care is staffing an information booth at the Farmers Market on June 14th. Stop by to meet Pacificans Care board members and learn more about the work of Pacificans Care.

Pacificans Care Bear visits with Child Care and Seniors clients:

Pacificans Care is the only Pacifica nonprofit organization solely dedicated to supporting social services in Pacifica from children and youth to families and seniors. Pacificans Care is an all-volunteer organization administered by an active Board of Directors comprised of community members dedicated to making a difference in our community.

For more information about Pacificans Care visit our website at PacificansCare.org or email pacificanscare1982@gmail.com.