News

Friday, March 13, 2026 4 pm – Old Town Business Walk.  Join Dr. Kim Barber and the interim City Manager for a walk through the Alvarado business district.   Meet at 4 pm at Starbucks.

Saturday, March 14, 12:30 PM OTNA Member Barbecue at the American Legion -Old Town Neighborhood Association is hosting a hamburger or chili dog lunch at the American Legion Post 41, 1110 Veterans Dr.   Current 2026 OTNA members are invited to a convivial lunch, held for members in the back room on the first floor.   Due to space constraints reservations are limited to the first 25 RSVPs. The lunch is free to members, paid by OTNA, however the bar is ‘no-host.’   Send your RSVP to philbussey2@gmail.com no later than March 10. This is a 2026 members-only event.   

Tuesday, March 17-6-7 pm – Bagpipers on the Wharf help you celebrate St. Patricks Day.  Enjoy the themed decorations, and check out the special St. Patrick’s Day offerings at Carousel Candies, Old Fisherman’s Grotto and Care Fina.

Wednesday, March 18, 7 pm– Old Town Neighborhood Association Annual Meeting at the McCone Building Conference Room, 499 Pierce St/corner of Jefferson.   Our first special speaker will be from the Old Monterey Business Association, discussing our downtown businesses and news. Our second speaker, in response to resident’s questions and issues about parking permits, will be Christie Steffy of the Monterey Parking Division.  Come with your questions for both.  We will also be having elections for our seven directors to serve a one-year term.  Currently running are (alphabetically), Corey Brunson, Phyllis Bussey, Mary Grove, Suzie Grimes, Sue Ricketson, Gari Soule’ and Nancy Soule’.  If you would like to run for a director position, please respond to this email.  Directors must be currently paid for 2026 and also have been a member the prior year.  Come in person, or attend via Zoom.  Join from PC, Mac, Linux, iOS or Android: https://middlebury.zoom.us/j/98078527273?pwd=NIb8LpUAsQZpAmudpcSH2MpbauQ7Z1.1
    Password: 6422

Friday, March 27, 2-4 “The Ladies of Larkin House”, a fundraiser sponsored by the Gentrain Society to be held at the Casa Serano, 412 Pacific Street.  After the presentation, enjoy a tour of the adobe and garden, along with refreshments. $20 at the door.  As seating is limited, RSVP to admin@gentrain.org.

Saturday, April 4, 3-5 pm Ikebana and Painting Demonstration at the Venture Gallery, 260 Alvarado Street at the Portola Hotel.   See this exciting art as part of their new “Spring into Beauty” exhibition through April.  Wearable art on sale April 11-12, 10-6.

Saturday, April 11 and Sunday, April 12, 2026, 11-4pm–Whalefest – This free, family-friendly festival features interactive exhibits, live music, research and rescue vessel tours, and educational activities for all ages. The popular Symposium, with renowned marine experts, is scheduled for both days from 11:00 am–4:00 pm at the Stanton Center. Interactive exhibits, hands-on activities such as Abalone Races, Origami, and Gyotaku, plus appearances by “Dee” the inflatable humpback whale. Maritime Historian Tim Thomas will lead history walks, and live music and plein air painting will add to the fun. 
Dozens of local, regional, and national marine organizations will be represented, including the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, Save the Whales, Western Flyer and many more. Whalefest raises awareness and support for the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.   For updates, schedules, or sponsorship info, visit www.whalefest.org.

Saturday, April 11, 11-4 pm Monterey Museum of Art Block Party, in the sculpture garden and street adjacent to the museum.  Enjoy art and music at this free event.   In the evening, from 8-10 pm, there will be a Dance Party for adults over 21, with a DJ and beer to be sold. Tickets $25.

June 6, 2026 SAVE THE DATE:  La Merienda celebration of Monterey’s founding in 1770 in the gardens of the Pacific House museum. Sa

ANNOUNCEMENTS  

La Merienda tickets are now available to purchase for members of Monterey History and Art Association, and Old Town is having two tables.  If you would like to sit at our table, please contact us so we can give you the hostess name to include (subject to availability) when you purchase your tickets from MHAA.   More information at montereyhistory.org.  Non members may purchase tickets beginning April 1, at a higher price.   Don’t miss this great celebration June 6, with music, folklorico dancing, a silent auction, pageantry, and a most incredible barbecue buffet, including, beer, wine, and cake. 

College Scholarship Applications are now being solicited by the Monterey County Historical Society.  Please view these college student scholarship opportunities at: https://mchsmuseum.com/education/

Crepes of Brittany 16^th Anniversary – In appreciation of 16 years, a new Crepes of Brittany Seniors Program will offer 15% to seniors over 55 who show a current Monterey County ID.  They also have initiated a Crepes of Brittany VIP Card that earns patrons a free sweet crepe after five prior crepe purchases.  Visit them at 211 Alvarado St.

Monterey High School’s Monterey Academy of Oceanographic Science is having a Fundraiser Gala at the Club at Pasadera on April 17.  For more information and to purchase tickets, go to https://www.maosmontereyhigh.org/maos-gala/2026/4/17/2026-maos-gala.

Do you have a story to tell?  Porchlight Stories invites you to share your five-minute story with others, a project sponsored by the Carl Cherry Center in Carmel inspired by “The Moth Radio Hour” on NPR.   For more information and guidelines, visit: https://carlcherrycenter.org/porchlight-stories/.

Monterey Public Library Used Book Sale Wednesdays and Saturdays 12-2 pm.  Find a treasured bargain in the basement below the library, entered from the parking lot.  Paperbacks $1.00.  Others as marked.  Proceeds go to support the library.

“Celebrating California Art: Artistic Alliance in Monterey, 1942-1946”, a new exhibit at Monterey Museum of Art.  This exhibit explores the artistic response to Executive Order 9066, which authorized the forced removal and incarceration of more than 100,000 people of Japanese descent.  The exhibit will be on view until April 26.

Sand Bag Fill Station next to the Fire Station at 600 Pacific Street is now operational for the season. This is a self-serve station.  Sand and bags are provided.  Bring your own shovel.

PGE Outage Compensation Program – If you have an outage longer than 48 hours, PGE will compensate you automatically on your bill.  For more information, go to https://www.pge.com/en/outages-and-safety/.

Free Recycling Bins are available by asking at the Planning Office, main level of Colton Hall at 570 Pacific Street, or by emailing bristow@monterey.gov to arrange for a pick up.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) next training course on three consecutive Saturdays in  February is full.  Reserve now for the next course, three consecutive Saturdays,, April 25, May 2 and May 9 from 8:30-5pm, as they fill fast.    The program instructs local citizens in a wide variety of rescue, search, emergency medical, preparedness, safety, team operations, basic fire control and community service skills. CERT members regularly respond to assist local fire and police with storm impacts, searches for missing persons, fire scenes, evacuations and many other emergency situation CERT members become sworn Disaster Service Workers (DSW).  The free training occurs in downtown Monterey.  Attendance on all three days is mandatory to graduate.   As these classes often fill up way in advance, Email certmonterey@gmail.com with your name, resident address, email you most commonly use, your cell and home phone numbers.

Invitation to Wednesday and Saturday Barbecues at the American Legion.  At our Old Town Neighborhood Association Meeting on Wednesday, August 20, our speaker from the American Legion wanted to be sure that we, their neighbors, are always invited to attend the Wednesday Steak Barbecues (at $15, a bargain) and the Saturday Grills of Hot Dogs/ Hamburgers (under $6).  Soft drinks are reasonable and it’s a nice way to meet our veterans.

Rental Registry Compliance – All rental properties must be in compliance with the city rental registry ordinance, and be registered annually. 

Annual Residential Parking Passes are available to residents of Monterey and active military for $20, good for two hours at both East and West Downtown Garages, Cannery Row Garage and the Waterfront lot.  Bring proof of residency, vehicle registration and ID to Parking office, 340 Tyler Street in the East Garage.   See Monterey.org/parking for more information.

City of Monterey Accepting Applications for Boards, Committees, and Commissions.  For position descriptions and requirements, please go to Monterey.gov/bcc.

Free Wharf Walks by Maritime Historian Tim Thomas the first Saturday of every month from 10am to noon.  Hear and experience a two hour cultural maritime history tour, with themes changing monthly.  Meet at the head of Old Fisherman’s Wharf near the pink Harbor House store. Free, but advance reservations are required and can be made at monterey.gov/library/events or by calling 831-646-3933.  This tour is recommended for ages 10 and up with a maximum group of 15 people.

The Presidio Museum of Monterey is open Saturdays and Sundays 10-4 pm – Learn the fascinating history of our Presidio, including the early indigenous settlers, the founding of the fort, the history during three wars, and the history of the Buffalo Soldiers. An interpretive walk with great views of the bay lead up to the Sloat Monument.  You can take a short cut from Van Buren over the creek bridge to reach it from Old Town.  Free.   Please consider volunteering as a docent for this great museum!

Free Public Tours of Ed Ricketts Pacific Biological Laboratories Second Saturdays, 10:00-11:00 and 11:30-12:30 pm, subject to availability. Modeled after famed ecologist Ed Ricketts, “Doc” was featured prominently in John Steinbeck’s novels about Cannery Row. The Lab at 800 Cannery Row was also where the idea of the Monterey Jazz Festival was born and welcomed such prominent figures as Louis Armstrong. Reserve in advance at monterey.gov/museums or by calling 831-646-5648. Visitors are also welcome to drop by without a reservation to self-tour this historic site from 12:00-4:00 pm on the second Saturday.

Casa Serano, the historic adobe at 412 Pacific Street, is now open for free visits on Saturday and Sunday 2-4 pm.  Docents can help you learn the interesting history of this adobe built in 1843, as you peruse the art and furnishings.

Old Town Neighborhood Association’s website is LIVE!  Visit oldtownmonterey.org for the latest on events, issues, and to find the Historic Homes self-guided walk featuring historic homes in our Old Town neighborhood.  Photos of the July 13 picnic are now posted on the social page of the website.

COMMUNITY GROUPS AND CLUBS

Are you interested in finding others with your interests?  Below are some of the other local organizations that welcome new members:

American Association of University Women – This national organization promotes equity for women in the workplace and in education.  In addition to supporting education through scholarships, they have book clubs, social events, monthly speakers, a Romancing the Coast monthly adventure, a hiking/walking group, and other interesting events.   See http://mpb-ca.aauw.net for more information. 

Monterey Civic Club – Founded in 1906, the club owns the House of the Four Winds, located at 540 Calle Principal. This beautiful and historic adobe is believed to be the oldest women’s clubhouse in continuous use in the United States.  Members meet the first Tuesday of each month for lunch and a social program ($25), often with a speaker of importance to members.  Contact (831) 747-1072 for more information.

Gentrain Society is an organization for life-long learners.  They generally meet the first and third Wednesdays from 1:30-2:30 at the Monterey Peninsula College Lecture Forum #103.  Lectures are free and open to the public (except $3.00 parking fee).  Topics range from drama, history, and understanding civilizations and more.  Courses are also offered, along with trips organized for special events.

Native Daughters of the Golden West – founded in 1880s, for women born in California.  The Monterey Junipero Parlor No 141 meets at 6:30 pm in the Casa Serrano on the second Monday of each month.  An added benefit is that members can stay at the NDGW home designed by Julia Morgan on Baker Street in San Francisco.  For more information, call or text Jerilynn Crivello at 831-320-2080.

Kiwanis Club of Monterey –founded in 1926, helps support community projects, scholarships, and youth groups in our community. Learn more at http://www.kiwanisclubmonterey.org or by emailing factpath-kiwanis@yahoo.com.

Not Yet a Member of Old Town Neighborhood Association? Annual membership dues are just $20 for two adults in your household which covers the calendar year in which paid.  Your dues help support social events and technical costs of website, Zoom meetings, and newsletter. Members can be renters, owners or landlords of a property in Old Town.  Learn how to become a member on our website! If you have any questions, contact us!   All residents living above Pacific St between the creek near Madison and the Presidio/DLI are eligible.   Checks to OTNA can be mailed, along with your names, address, phone and email to our address below.   Old Town Neighborhood Association P O Box 724, Monterey, CA  93942

This information is being shared as a service by Old Town Neighborhood Association.  Information is presumed accurate, but is not guaranteed, and always subject to change.   Visit our website at oldtownmonterey.org.

Who said there’s no free lunch?  Reservations are extended to March 10 for member families of Old Town Neighborhood Association to enjoy a free lunch at the American Legion Post on Saturday, March 14.  More below.

Saturday March 7, 12-5 pm –“Banding Together” a Music Festival Fundraiser at the Custom House Plaza, supporting Community Human Services.   Enjoy music on the plaza while benefiting our community.  Tickets $35

Saturday, March 7, 2-3 pm – “Modernist Women:The Bruton Sisters and the 1920s Monterey Art Scene” – Celebrate Women’s History Month with an inspiring look at Monterey’s vibrant artistic past at the California First Theater, corner of Scott and Pacific.  Author Wendy Van Wyck Good talks about the groundbreaking artists who helped shape Monterey’s creative community a century ago.   

Friday, March 13, 2026 4 pm – Old Town Business Walk.  Join Dr. Kim Barber and the interim City Manager for a walk through the Alvarado business district.   Meet at 4 pm at Starbucks.

March 14, 12:30 PM Member Barbecue at the American Legion -Old Town Neighborhood Association is hosting a hamburger or chili dog lunch at the American Legion Post 41, 1110 Veterans Dr.   Current 2026 OTNA members are invited to a convivial lunch, held for members in the back room on the first floor.   Due to space constraints reservations are limited to the first 25 RSVPs. The lunch is free to members, paid by OTNA, however the bar is ‘no-host.’   Send your RSVP to philbussey2@gmail.com no later than March 10. This is a 2026 members-only event.   

Wednesday, March 18, 7 pm– Old Town Neighborhood Association Annual Meeting at the McCone Building Conference Room, 499 Pierce St/corner of Jefferson.  Our special speaker will be from the Old Monterey Business Association, discussing our downtown businesses and news.  We will also be having elections for our seven directors to serve a one-year term.  Currently running are (alphabetically), Corey Brunson, Phyllis Bussey, Mary Grove, Suzie Grimes, Sue Ricketson, Gari Soule’ and Nancy Soule’.  If you would like to run for a director position, please respond to this email.  Directors must be currently paid for 2026 and also have been a member the prior year.  Come in person, or attend via Zoom.  Join from PC, Mac, Linux, iOS or Android: https://middlebury.zoom.us/j/98078527273?pwd=NIb8LpUAsQZpAmudpcSH2MpbauQ7Z1.1
    Password: 6422

ANNOUNCEMENTS  

A New Parking Permit Procedure may have been sent to you in a letter, if you are in a RPP Zone.  Please note that it requires ACTION by you and those in your block and three adjacent blocks in order to qualify and responses need to be received by March 6.  Failure to qualify means at least three years with no parking restrictions before the opportunity comes up again.  More info athttps://haveyoursaymonterey.org/residential-parking-program.  If finding parking is difficult now, think how it could be if tourists could park in front of your home for up to 72 hours?

Monterey High School’s Monterey Academy of Oceanographic Science is having a Fundraiser Gala at the Club at Pasadera on April 17.  For more information and to purchase tickets, go to https://www.maosmontereyhigh.org/maos-gala/2026/4/17/2026-maos-gala.

Do you have a story to tell?  Porchlight Stories invites you to share your five-minute story with others, a project sponsored by the Carl Cherry Center in Carmel inspired by “The Moth Radio Hour” on NPR.   For more information and guidelines, visit: https://carlcherrycenter.org/porchlight-stories/.

Monterey Public Library Used Book Sale Wednesdays and Saturdays 12-2 pm.  Find a treasured bargain in the basement below the library, entered from the parking lot.  Paperbacks $1.00.  Others as marked.  Proceeds go to support the library.

“Celebrating California Art: Artistic Alliance in Monterey, 1942-1946”, a new exhibit at Monterey Museum of Art.  This exhibit explores the artistic response to Executive Order 9066, which authorized the forced removal and incarceration of more than 100,000 people of Japanese descent.  The exhibit will be on view until April 26.

Sand Bag Fill Station next to the Fire Station at 600 Pacific Street is now operational for the season. This is a self-serve station.  Sand and bags are provided.  Bring your own shovel.

PGE Outage Compensation Program – If you have an outage longer than 48 hours, PGE will compensate you automatically on your bill.  For more information, go to https://www.pge.com/en/outages-and-safety/.

Free Recycling Bins are available by asking at the Planning Office, main level of Colton Hall at 570 Pacific Street, or by emailing bristow@monterey.gov to arrange for a pick up.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) next training course on three consecutive Saturdays in  February is full.  Reserve now for the next course, three consecutive Saturdays,, April 25, May 2 and May 9 from 8:30-5pm, as they fill fast.    The program instructs local citizens in a wide variety of rescue, search, emergency medical, preparedness, safety, team operations, basic fire control and community service skills. CERT members regularly respond to assist local fire and police with storm impacts, searches for missing persons, fire scenes, evacuations and many other emergency situation CERT members become sworn Disaster Service Workers (DSW).  The free training occurs in downtown Monterey.  Attendance on all three days is mandatory to graduate.   As these classes often fill up way in advance, Email certmonterey@gmail.com with your name, resident address, email you most commonly use, your cell and home phone numbers.

Invitation to Wednesday and Saturday Barbecues at the American Legion.  At our Old Town Neighborhood Association Meeting on Wednesday, August 20, our speaker from the American Legion wanted to be sure that we, their neighbors, are always invited to attend the Wednesday Steak Barbecues (at $15, a bargain) and the Saturday Grills of Hot Dogs/ Hamburgers (under $6).  Soft drinks are reasonable and it’s a nice way to meet our veterans.

Rental Registry Compliance – All rental properties must be in compliance with the city rental registry ordinance, and be registered annually. 

Annual Residential Parking Passes are available to residents of Monterey and active military for $20, good for two hours at both East and West Downtown Garages, Cannery Row Garage and the Waterfront lot.  Bring proof of residency, vehicle registration and ID to Parking office, 340 Tyler Street in the East Garage.   See Monterey.org/parking for more information.

City of Monterey Accepting Applications for Boards, Committees, and Commissions.  For position descriptions and requirements, please go to Monterey.gov/bcc.

Free Wharf Walks by Maritime Historian Tim Thomas the first Saturday of every month from 10am to noon.  Hear and experience a two hour cultural maritime history tour, with themes changing monthly.  Meet at the head of Old Fisherman’s Wharf near the pink Harbor House store. Free, but advance reservations are required and can be made at monterey.gov/library/events or by calling 831-646-3933.  This tour is recommended for ages 10 and up with a maximum group of 15 people.

The Presidio Museum of Monterey is open Saturdays and Sundays 10-4 pm – Learn the fascinating history of our Presidio, including the early indigenous settlers, the founding of the fort, the history during three wars, and the history of the Buffalo Soldiers. An interpretive walk with great views of the bay lead up to the Sloat Monument.  You can take a short cut from Van Buren over the creek bridge to reach it from Old Town.  Free.   Please consider volunteering as a docent for this great museum!

Free Public Tours of Ed Ricketts Pacific Biological Laboratories Second Saturdays, 10:00-11:00 and 11:30-12:30 pm, subject to availability. Modeled after famed ecologist Ed Ricketts, “Doc” was featured prominently in John Steinbeck’s novels about Cannery Row. The Lab at 800 Cannery Row was also where the idea of the Monterey Jazz Festival was born and welcomed such prominent figures as Louis Armstrong. Reserve in advance at monterey.gov/museums or by calling 831-646-5648. Visitors are also welcome to drop by without a reservation to self-tour this historic site from 12:00-4:00 pm on the second Saturday.

Casa Serano, the historic adobe at 412 Pacific Street, is now open for free visits on Saturday and Sunday 2-4 pm.  Docents can help you learn the interesting history of this adobe built in 1843, as you peruse the art and furnishings.

Old Town Neighborhood Association’s website is LIVE!  Visit oldtownmonterey.org for the latest on events, issues, and to find the Historic Homes self-guided walk featuring historic homes in our Old Town neighborhood.  Photos of the July 13 picnic are now posted on the social page of the website.

COMMUNITY GROUPS AND CLUBS

Are you interested in finding others with your interests?  Below are some of the other local organizations that welcome new members:

American Association of University Women – This national organization promotes equity for women in the workplace and in education.  In addition to supporting education through scholarships, they have book clubs, social events, monthly speakers, a Romancing the Coast monthly adventure, a hiking/walking group, and other interesting events.   See http://mpb-ca.aauw.net for more information. 

Monterey Civic Club – Founded in 1906, the club owns the House of the Four Winds, located at 540 Calle Principal. This beautiful and historic adobe is believed to be the oldest women’s clubhouse in continuous use in the United States.  Members meet the first Tuesday of each month for lunch and a social program ($25), often with a speaker of importance to members.  Contact (831) 747-1072 for more information.

Gentrain Society is an organization for life-long learners.  They generally meet the first and third Wednesdays from 1:30-2:30 at the Monterey Peninsula College Lecture Forum #103.  Lectures are free and open to the public (except $3.00 parking fee).  Topics range from drama, history, and understanding civilizations and more.  Courses are also offered, along with trips organized for special events.

Native Daughters of the Golden West – founded in 1880s, for women born in California.  The Monterey Junipero Parlor No 141 meets at 6:30 pm in the Casa Serrano on the second Monday of each month.  An added benefit is that members can stay at the NDGW home designed by Julia Morgan on Baker Street in San Francisco.  For more information, call or text Jerilynn Crivello at 831-320-2080.

Kiwanis Club of Monterey –founded in 1926, helps support community projects, scholarships, and youth groups in our community. Learn more at http://www.kiwanisclubmonterey.org or by emailing factpath-kiwanis@yahoo.com.

Not Yet a Member of Old Town Neighborhood Association? Annual membership dues are just $20 for two adults in your household which covers the calendar year in which paid.  Your dues help support social events and technical costs of website, Zoom meetings, and newsletter. Members can be renters, owners or landlords of a property in Old Town.  Learn how to become a member on our website! If you have any questions, contact us!   All residents living above Pacific St between the creek near Madison and the Presidio/DLI are eligible.   Checks to OTNA can be mailed, along with your names, address, phone and email to our address below.   Old Town Neighborhood Association P O Box 724, Monterey, CA  93942

This information is being shared as a service by Old Town Neighborhood Association.  Information is presumed accurate, but is not guaranteed, and always subject to change.   Visit our website at oldtownmonterey.org.

Sunday, March 1, 3:30-5:30 Lower Presidio Historic Park walk, presentation on park lease operations by Library and Museums Director Brian Edwards, followed by refreshments and discussion.  Sign up for this free event at https:://montereypl.libcal.com/event/16374701.  Also, please take the community survey at https://haveyoursaymonterey.org/lphp-master-plan by March 2, as it is the community opportunity to have input o decisions to be made.

Sunday, March 1, 1-3 pm “Lewis Josselyn: Pioneer Photographer of Carmel and Monterey County, 1900-1950”, a presentation by Greg Henderson, historian, author and genealogist.   This will be followed by “The Magnificent, World Famous Hotel Del Monte Bathing Pavilion”, a presentation by John Sanders.  Both are in the Stanton Center off Custom House Plaza and are free to members of Monterey History and Art.  Public $10.   Friday, March 6, 2026, 5-7 pm First Friday at the Monterey Museum of Art – Enjoy free admission during this after hours event.   Listen to music by Kito Rayburn as you explore the galleries.  Guests are also invited to participate in the “Landscape Reenvisioned” collage.

Friday, March 13, 2026 4 pm – Old Town Business Walk.  Join Dr. Kim Barber and the interim City Manager for a walk through the Alvarado business district.   Meet at 4 pm at Starbucks.

March 14, 12:30 PM Member Barbecue at the American Legion -Old Town Neighborhood Association is hosting a hamburger or chili dog lunch at the American Legion Post 41, 1110 Veterans Dr.   Current 2026 OTNA members are invited to a convivial lunch, held for members in the back room on the first floor.   Due to space constraints reservations are limited to the first 25 RSVPs. The lunch is free to members, paid by OTNA, however the bar is’no-host.’   Send your RSVP to philbussey2@gmail.com no later than March 6. This is a 2026 members-only event.   

Wednesday, March 18, 7 pm– Old Town Neighborhood Association Annual Meeting at the McCone Building Conference Room, 499 Pierce St/corner of Jefferson.  Our special speaker will be from the Old Monterey Business Association, discussing our downtown businesses and news.  We will also be having elections for our seven directors to serve a one-year term.  Currently running are (alphabetically), Corey Brunson, Phyllis Bussey, Mary Grove, Suzie Grimes, Sue Ricketson, Gari Soule’ and Nancy Soule’.  If you would like to run for a director position, please respond to this email.  Directors must be currently paid for 2026 and also have been a member the prior year.  Come in person, or attend via Zoom.

ANNOUNCEMENTS  

A New Parking Permit Procedure may have been sent to you in a  letter, if you are in a RPP Zone.  Please note that it requires ACTION by you and those in your block and three adjacent blocks in order to qualify and responses need to be received by March 6.  Failure to qualify means at least three years with no parking restrictions before the opportunity comes up again.  More info athttps://haveyoursaymonterey.org/residential-parking-program.  If finding parking is difficult now, think how it could be if tourists could park in front of your home for up to 72 hours?

Do you have a story to tell?  Porchlight Stories invites you to share your five-minute story with others, a project sponsored by the Carl Cherry Center in Carmel inspired by “The Moth Radio Hour” on NPR.   For more information and guidelines, visit: https://carlcherrycenter.org/porchlight-stories/.

The Envionmental  Report for the Madison Street Affordable Housing Project at 587 and 593 Van Buren Street is available for review at https://files.monterey.gov/Document-Center/Departments/Community-Development/Planning/For-Public-Review/2026-0210 Environmental Assesment.pdf?t=202602101740290&t=202602101740290.  The public may submit written comments on the ERR to Levi Hill, City of Monterey, Planning Office, 580 Pacific Street, Monterey, CA 93940 or via email at lhill@monterey.org. All comments received by 5:00 P.M. on March 2, 2026 will be considered by the City of Monterey prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds. Comments should specify which Notice they are addressing.

Monterey Public Library Used Book Sale Wednesdays and Saturdays 12-2 pm.  Find a treasured bargain in the basement below the library, entered from the parking lot.  Paperbacks $1.00.  Others as marked.  Proceeds go to support the library.

“Celebrating California Art: Artistic Alliance in Monterey, 1942-1946”, a new exhibit at Monterey Museum of Art.  This exhibit explores the artistic response to Executive Order 9066, which authorized the forced removal and incarceration of more than 100,000 people of Japanese descent.  The exhibit will be on view until April 26.

THE OLD TOWN HISTORIC HOMES WALK has a new addition—The Frank Hellam House at 581 Scott Street, just uphill from the Perry House.  Check it out at our website, https://oldtownmonterey.org/historic-homes-walk/the-frank-hellam-house/

A beautiful new mural depicting Monterey Bay and Cannery Row History has been produced by Chris Shake along the recreation trail behind Austino’s Restaurant at 851 Cannery Row.   The colorful mural by artist Renae McCollum, depickts John Steinbeck, Kalisa Moore, and the Western Flyer boat that John Steinbeck and Doc Ricketts to to the Sea of Cortez in 1940. 

Sand Bag Fill Station next to the Fire Station at 600 Pacific Street is now operational for the season. This is a self-serve station.  Sand and bags are provided.  Bring your own shovel.

PGE Outage Compensation Program – If you have an outage longer than 48 hours, PGE will compensate you automatically on your bill.  For more information, go to https://www.pge.com/en/outages-and-safety/.

Free Recycling Bins are available by asking at the Planning Office, main level of Colton Hall at 570 Pacific Street, or by emailing bristow@monterey.gov to arrange for a pick up.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) next training course on three consecutive Saturdays in  February is full.  Reserve now for the next course, three consecutive Saturdays,, April 25, May 2 and May 9 from 8:30-5pm, as they fill fast.    The program instructs local citizens in a wide variety of rescue, search, emergency medical, preparedness, safety, team operations, basic fire control and community service skills. CERT members regularly respond to assist local fire and police with storm impacts, searches for missing persons, fire scenes, evacuations and many other emergency situation CERT members become sworn Disaster Service Workers (DSW).  The free training occurs in downtown Monterey.  Attendance on all three days is mandatory to graduate.   As these classes often fill up way in advance, Email certmonterey@gmail.com with your name, resident address, email you most commonly use, your cell and home phone numbers.

The Monterey Airport Board New VOLUNTARY Flight Curfew is from midnight to 5 am!   The board voted to rescind the prior ordinances which had a curfew between 11 pm and 7 am, and had limitations to how low flights could come in.  

New Zoning for R-1 Properties in Monterey.  At the August 19, 2025 meeting, the City Council voted to adopt the SB9 requirements for lot splits allowing 2 units each, for a total of four, and went further to allow six units on a single lot when a unit is an affordable housing unit.  They did not want to defer until the lawsuit by other Charter cities (Monterey is a charter city) is settled on appeal.  In the original lawsuit, the court found that the state could not direct zoning in Charter cities.  The vote was 3-2 with the mayor, Councilman Gino Garcia, and Councilwoman Dr. Kim Barber approving (District 1, most of Old Town), and Councilman Ed Smith (District 2, most eastern part of Old Town) and Jean Rasch (a slim part of Old Town on Madison) opposing. 

Invitation to Wednesday and Saturday Barbecues at the American Legion.  At our Old Town Neighborhood Association Meeting on Wednesday, August 20, our speaker from the American Legion wanted to be sure that we, their neighbors, are always invited to attend the Wednesday Steak Barbecues (at $15, a bargain) and the Saturday Grills of Hot Dogs/ Hamburgers (under $6).  Soft drinks are reasonable and it’s a nice way to meet our veterans.

LOST AND FOUND: If you left your navy cotton jacket at the July picnic in Veterans Park, please reply to this bulletin.  

Rental Registry Compliance – All rental properties must be in compliance with the city rental registry ordinance, and be registered annually. 

Annual Residential Parking Passes are available to residents of Monterey and active military for $20, good for two hours at both East and West Downtown Garages, Cannery Row Garage and the Waterfront lot.  Bring proof of residency, vehicle registration and ID to Parking office, 340 Tyler Street in the East Garage.   See Monterey.org/parking for more information.

City of Monterey Accepting Applications for Boards, Committees, and Commissions.  For position descriptions and requirements, please go to Monterey.gov/bcc.

Free Wharf Walks by Maritime Historian Tim Thomas the first Saturday of every month from 10am to noon.  Hear and experience a two hour cultural maritime history tour, with themes changing monthly.  Meet at the head of Old Fisherman’s Wharf near the pink Harbor House store. Free, but advance reservations are required and can be made at monterey.gov/library/events or by calling 831-646-3933.  This tour is recommended for ages 10 and up with a maximum group of 15 people.

The Presidio Museum of Monterey is open Saturdays and Sundays 10-4 pm – Learn the fascinating history of our Presidio, including the early indigenous settlers, the founding of the fort, the history during three wars, and the history of the Buffalo Soldiers. An interpretive walk with great views of the bay lead up to the Sloat Monument.  You can take a short cut from Van Buren over the creek bridge to reach it from Old Town.  Free.   Please consider volunteering as a docent for this great museum!

Free Public Tours of Ed Ricketts Pacific Biological Laboratories Second Saturdays, 10:00-11:00 and 11:30-12:30 pm, subject to availability. Modeled after famed ecologist Ed Ricketts, “Doc” was featured prominently in John Steinbeck’s novels about Cannery Row. The Lab at 800 Cannery Row was also where the idea of the Monterey Jazz Festival was born and welcomed such prominent figures as Louis Armstrong. Reserve in advance at monterey.gov/museums or by calling 831-646-5648. Visitors are also welcome to drop by without a reservation to self-tour this historic site from 12:00-4:00 pm on the second Saturday.

Casa Serano, the historic adobe at 412 Pacific Street, is now open for free visits on Saturday and Sunday 2-4 pm.  Docents can help you learn the interesting history of this adobe built in 1843, as you peruse the art and furnishings.

Old Town Neighborhood Association’s website is LIVE!  Visit oldtownmonterey.org for the latest on events, issues, and to find the Historic Homes self-guided walk featuring historic homes in our Old Town neighborhood.  Photos of the July 13 picnic are now posted on the social page of the website.

COMMUNITY GROUPS AND CLUBS

Are you interested in finding others with your interests?  Below are some of the other local organizations that welcome new members:

American Association of University Women – This national organization promotes equity for women in the workplace and in education.  In addition to supporting education through scholarships, they have book clubs, social events, monthly speakers, a Romancing the Coast monthly adventure, a hiking/walking group, and other interesting events.   See http://mpb-ca.aauw.net for more information. 

Monterey Civic Club – Founded in 1906, the club owns the House of the Four Winds, located at 540 Calle Principal. This beautiful and historic adobe is believed to be the oldest women’s clubhouse in continuous use in the United States.  Members meet the first Tuesday of each month for lunch and a social program ($25), often with a speaker of importance to members.  Contact (831) 747-1072 for more information.

Gentrain Society is an organization for life-long learners.  They generally meet the first and third Wednesdays from 1:30-2:30 at the Monterey Peninsula College Lecture Forum #103.  Lectures are free and open to the public (except $3.00 parking fee).  Topics range from drama, history, and understanding civilizations and more.  Courses are also offered, along with trips organized for special events.

Native Daughters of the Golden West – founded in 1880s, for women born in California.  The Monterey Junipero Parlor No 141 meets at 6:30 pm in the Casa Serrano on the second Monday of each month.  An added benefit is that members can stay at the NDGW home designed by Julia Morgan on Baker Street in San Francisco.  For more information, call or text Jerilynn Crivello at 831-320-2080.

Kiwanis Club of Monterey –founded in 1926, helps support community projects, scholarships, and youth groups in our community. Learn more at http://www.kiwanisclubmonterey.org or by emailing factpath-kiwanis@yahoo.com.

Not Yet a Member of Old Town Neighborhood Association? Annual membership dues are just $20 for two adults in your household which covers the calendar year in which paid.  Your dues help support social events and technical costs of website, Zoom meetings, and newsletter. Members can be renters, owners or landlords of a property in Old Town.  Learn how to become a member on our website! If you have any questions, contact us!   All residents living above Pacific St between the creek near Madison and the Presidio/DLI are eligible.   Checks to OTNA can be mailed, along with your names, address, phone and email to our address below.   Old Town Neighborhood Association P O Box 724, Monterey, CA  93942

This information is being shared as a service by Old Town Neighborhood Association.  Information is presumed accurate, but is not guaranteed, and always subject to change.   Visit our website at oldtownmonterey.org.

Tuesday, February 17, 4 pm – Monterey City Council Meeting to discuss response to a County of Monterey proposed development of an 11-story housing complex under “Builders Remedy” containing 239 dwelling units, at 711 Viejo Road, just across Highway 1 from the Monterey Vista neighborhood.  At 7 pm, there will be discussion with the NCIP committee on reducing funding of approximately $3.5 million of projects.  Attend in person at council chambers, view on Comcast Channel 25, or view online at: https://monterey-org.zoomgov.com/j/1607729333.  Letters can be mailed to cityclerk@monterey.gov.   Full agenda details and instructions for participating can be found at https://isearchmonterey.org/OnBaseAgendaOnline/Documents/DownloadFileBytes/Council_Regular_Meeting_and_Closed_Session_6385_Agenda_Packet_2_17_2026_4_00_00_PM.pdf?documentType=5&meetingId=6385&isAttachment=true.

Saturday, February 21, 2026 4-7 pm Chocolate and Wine – A Fundraiser to support the Monterey Public Library.  This promises to be an unforgettable evening of chocolate, wine, beer and savory snacks among the stacks while supporting your local public library.   Tickets are available now at: https://www.investinmpl.org/event/21st-annual-chocolate-wine/ 

Sunday, March 1, 1-3 pm “Lewis Josselyn: Pioneer Photographer of Carmel and Monterey County, 1900-1950”, a presentation by Greg Henderson, historian, author and genealogist.   This will be followed by “The Magnificent, World Famous Hotel Del Monte Bathing Pavilion”, a presentation by John Sanders.  Both are in the Stanton Center off Custom House Plaza and are free to members of Monterey History and Art.  Public $10.

Friday, March 13, 2026 4 pm – Old Town Business Walk.  Join Dr. Kim Barber and the interim City Manager for a walk through the Alvarado business district.   Meet at 4 pm at Starbucks.

March 14, 12:30 PM Member Barbecue at the American Legion -Old Town Neighborhood Association is hosting a hamburger or chili dog lunch at the American Legion Post 41, 1110 Veterans Dr.   Current 2026 OTNA members are invited to a convivial lunch, held for members in the back room on the first floor.   Due to space constraints reservations are limited to the first 25 RSVPs. The lunch is free to members, paid by OTNA, however the bar is’no-host.’   Send your RSVP to philbussey2@gmail.com no later than March 6. This is a 2026 members-only event.   

Wednesday, March 18, 7 pm– Old Town Neighborhood Association Annual Meeting at the McCone Building Conference Room, 499 Pierce St/corner of Jefferson.  Our special speaker will be from the Old Monterey Business Association, discussing our downtown businesses and news.  We will also be having elections for our seven directors to serve a one-year term.  Currently running are (alphabetically), Corey Brunson, Phyllis Bussey, Mary Grove, Suzie Grimes, Sue Ricketson, Gari Soule’ and Nancy Soule’.  If you would like to run for a director position, please respond to this email.  Directors must be currently paid for 2026 and also have been a member the prior year.  Come in person, or attend via Zoom.

ANNOUNCEMENTS  

The Envionmental  Report for the Madison Street Affordable Housing Project at 587 and 593 Van Buren Street is available for review at https://files.monterey.gov/Document-Center/Departments/Community-Development/Planning/For-Public-Review/2026-0210 Environmental Assesment.pdf?t=202602101740290&t=202602101740290.  The public may submit written comments on the ERR to Levi Hill, City of Monterey, Planning Office, 580 Pacific Street, Monterey, CA 93940 or via email at lhill@monterey.org. All comments received by 5:00 P.M. on March 2, 2026 will be considered by the City of Monterey prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds. Comments should specify which Notice they are addressing.

Monterey Public Library Used Book Sale Wednesdays and Saturdays 12-2 pm.  Find a treasured bargain in the basement below the library, entered from the parking lot.  Paperbacks $1.00.  Others as marked.  Proceeds go to support the library.

“Celebrating California Art: Artistic Alliance in Monterey, 1942-1946”, a new exhibit at Monterey Museum of Art.  This exhibit explores the artistic response to Executive Order 9066, which authorized the forced removal and incarceration of more than 100,000 people of Japanese descent.  The exhibit will be on view until April 26.

THE OLD TOWN HISTORIC HOMES WALK has a new addition—The Frank Hellam House at 581 Scott Street, just uphill from the Perry House.  Check it out at our website, https://oldtownmonterey.org/historic-homes-walk/the-frank-hellam-house/

A beautiful new mural depicting Monterey Bay and Cannery Row History has been produced by Chris Shake along the recreation trail behind Austino’s Restaurant at 851 Cannery Row.   The colorful mural by artist Renae McCollum, depickts John Steinbeck, Kalisa Moore, and the Western Flyer boat that John Steinbeck and Doc Ricketts to to the Sea of Cortez in 1940. 

Sand Bag Fill Station next to the Fire Station at 600 Pacific Street is now operational for the season. This is a self-serve station.  Sand and bags are provided.  Bring your own shovel.

PGE Outage Compensation Program – If you have an outage longer than 48 hours, PGE will compensate you automatically on your bill.  For more information, go to https://www.pge.com/en/outages-and-safety/.

Free Recycling Bins are available by asking at the Planning Office, main level of Colton Hall at 570 Pacific Street, or by emailing bristow@monterey.gov to arrange for a pick up.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) next training course on three consecutive Saturdays in  February is full.  Reserve now for the next course, three consecutive Saturdays,, April 25, May 2 and May 9 from 8:30-5pm, as they fill fast.    The program instructs local citizens in a wide variety of rescue, search, emergency medical, preparedness, safety, team operations, basic fire control and community service skills. CERT members regularly respond to assist local fire and police with storm impacts, searches for missing persons, fire scenes, evacuations and many other emergency situation CERT members become sworn Disaster Service Workers (DSW).  The free training occurs in downtown Monterey.  Attendance on all three days is mandatory to graduate.   As these classes often fill up way in advance, Email certmonterey@gmail.com with your name, resident address, email you most commonly use, your cell and home phone numbers.

The Monterey Airport Board New VOLUNTARY Flight Curfew is from midnight to 5 am!   The board voted to rescind the prior ordinances which had a curfew between 11 pm and 7 am, and had limitations to how low flights could come in.  

New Zoning for R-1 Properties in Monterey.  At the August 19, 2025 meeting, the City Council voted to adopt the SB9 requirements for lot splits allowing 2 units each, for a total of four, and went further to allow six units on a single lot when a unit is an affordable housing unit.  They did not want to defer until the lawsuit by other Charter cities (Monterey is a charter city) is settled on appeal.  In the original lawsuit, the court found that the state could not direct zoning in Charter cities.  The vote was 3-2 with the mayor, Councilman Gino Garcia, and Councilwoman Dr. Kim Barber approving (District 1, most of Old Town), and Councilman Ed Smith (District 2, most eastern part of Old Town) and Jean Rasch (a slim part of Old Town on Madison) opposing. 

Invitation to Wednesday and Saturday Barbecues at the American Legion.  At our Old Town Neighborhood Association Meeting on Wednesday, August 20, our speaker from the American Legion wanted to be sure that we, their neighbors, are always invited to attend the Wednesday Steak Barbecues (at $15, a bargain) and the Saturday Grills of Hot Dogs/ Hamburgers (under $6).  Soft drinks are reasonable and it’s a nice way to meet our veterans.

LOST AND FOUND: If you left your navy cotton jacket at the July picnic in Veterans Park, please reply to this bulletin.  

Rental Registry Compliance – All rental properties must be in compliance with the city rental registry ordinance, and be registered annually. 

Annual Residential Parking Passes are available to residents of Monterey and active military for $20, good for two hours at both East and West Downtown Garages, Cannery Row Garage and the Waterfront lot.  Bring proof of residency, vehicle registration and ID to Parking office, 340 Tyler Street in the East Garage.   See Monterey.org/parking for more information.

City of Monterey Accepting Applications for Boards, Committees, and Commissions.  For position descriptions and requirements, please go to Monterey.gov/bcc.

Free Wharf Walks by Maritime Historian Tim Thomas the first Saturday of every month from 10am to noon.  Hear and experience a two hour cultural maritime history tour, with themes changing monthly.  Meet at the head of Old Fisherman’s Wharf near the pink Harbor House store. Free, but advance reservations are required and can be made at monterey.gov/library/events or by calling 831-646-3933.  This tour is recommended for ages 10 and up with a maximum group of 15 people.

The Presidio Museum of Monterey is open Saturdays and Sundays 10-4 pm – Learn the fascinating history of our Presidio, including the early indigenous settlers, the founding of the fort, the history during three wars, and the history of the Buffalo Soldiers. An interpretive walk with great views of the bay lead up to the Sloat Monument.  You can take a short cut from Van Buren over the creek bridge to reach it from Old Town.  Free.   Please consider volunteering as a docent for this great museum!

Free Public Tours of Ed Ricketts Pacific Biological Laboratories Second Saturdays, 10:00-11:00 and 11:30-12:30 pm, subject to availability. Modeled after famed ecologist Ed Ricketts, “Doc” was featured prominently in John Steinbeck’s novels about Cannery Row. The Lab at 800 Cannery Row was also where the idea of the Monterey Jazz Festival was born and welcomed such prominent figures as Louis Armstrong. Reserve in advance at monterey.gov/museums or by calling 831-646-5648. Visitors are also welcome to drop by without a reservation to self-tour this historic site from 12:00-4:00 pm on the second Saturday.

Casa Serano, the historic adobe at 412 Pacific Street, is now open for free visits on Saturday and Sunday 2-4 pm.  Docents can help you learn the interesting history of this adobe built in 1843, as you peruse the art and furnishings.

Old Town Neighborhood Association’s website is LIVE!  Visit oldtownmonterey.org for the latest on events, issues, and to find the Historic Homes self-guided walk featuring historic homes in our Old Town neighborhood.  Photos of the July 13 picnic are now posted on the social page of the website.

COMMUNITY GROUPS AND CLUBS

Are you interested in finding others with your interests?  Below are some of the other local organizations that welcome new members:

American Association of University Women – This national organization promotes equity for women in the workplace and in education.  In addition to supporting education through scholarships, they have book clubs, social events, monthly speakers, a Romancing the Coast monthly adventure, a hiking/walking group, and other interesting events.   See http://mpb-ca.aauw.net for more information. 

Monterey Civic Club – Founded in 1906, the club owns the House of the Four Winds, located at 540 Calle Principal. This beautiful and historic adobe is believed to be the oldest women’s clubhouse in continuous use in the United States.  Members meet the first Tuesday of each month for lunch and a social program ($25), often with a speaker of importance to members.  Contact (831) 747-1072 for more information.

Gentrain Society is an organization for life-long learners.  They generally meet the first and third Wednesdays from 1:30-2:30 at the Monterey Peninsula College Lecture Forum #103.  Lectures are free and open to the public (except $3.00 parking fee).  Topics range from drama, history, and understanding civilizations and more.  Courses are also offered, along with trips organized for special events.

Native Daughters of the Golden West – founded in 1880s, for women born in California.  The Monterey Junipero Parlor No 141 meets at 6:30 pm in the Casa Serrano on the second Monday of each month.  An added benefit is that members can stay at the NDGW home designed by Julia Morgan on Baker Street in San Francisco.  For more information, call or text Jerilynn Crivello at 831-320-2080.

Kiwanis Club of Monterey –founded in 1926, helps support community projects, scholarships, and youth groups in our community. Learn more at http://www.kiwanisclubmonterey.org or by emailing factpath-kiwanis@yahoo.com.

Not Yet a Member of Old Town Neighborhood Association? Annual membership dues are just $20 for two adults in your household which covers the calendar year in which paid.  Your dues help support social events and technical costs of website, Zoom meetings, and newsletter. Members can be renters, owners or landlords of a property in Old Town.  Learn how to become a member on our website! If you have any questions, contact us!   All residents living above Pacific St between the creek near Madison and the Presidio/DLI are eligible.   Checks to OTNA can be mailed, along with your names, address, phone and email to our address below.   Old Town Neighborhood Association P O Box 724, Monterey, CA  93942

This information is being shared as a service by Old Town Neighborhood Association.  Information is presumed accurate, but is not guaranteed, and always subject to change.   Visit our website at oldtownmonterey.org.

Saturday, January 31, 10 am “Kim Talks” at Wave Street Café.  Come meet our city councilwoman, Dr. Kim Barber, and discuss your ideas and concerns.

Sunday, February 1, 1-3 pm Histories of the Monterey Waterfront at the Stanton Center off Custom House Plaza.   “A is for Abalone: the Japanese on the Monterey Wharaf, 1900-1941” will be presented by maritime historian Tim Thomas.   “The Sicilian Experience and Fisherman’s Wharf” will be presented by Bob Eneas, whose grandfather and uncle were pioneer sardine fishermen in Monterey.  Free to members of Monterey History and Art.  $10 for non-members.

Saturday, February 7, 10 am- “Historic Tales of the Monterey Bay: Sharks, Fishermen and Life Beneath the Waves” a wharf walk lead by maritime historian Tim Thomas.  Meet at the head of Old Fisherman’s Wharf near the pink Harbor House store. Free, but advance reservations are required and can be made at monterey.gov/library/events or by calling 831-646-3933.  This tour is recommended for ages 10 and up with a maximum group of 15 people.

Saturday, February 14, 2026, 1-4 pm – Stanton Center Free Open House.  See new exhibits by Emile Norman, “”On the Waterfront: The Chris Shake Collection”,  and “Vaqueros, Cowboys and Ranch Life”.  Old Town residents may also be interested in Scott Gale’s “Los Perdidos y Los Salvados”, the lost and saved historic Monterey buildings.

Saturday, February 14, 2026. 5:30-8:00, Italian Dinner at the beautiful Casa Serano, 412 Pacific Street, a fundraiser for Monterey History and Art Association.  Relive the days when the Cademartori Restaurant was thriving in the Casa Serano building with a fabulous Italian dinner featuring lasagna, spaghetti and more prepared by Los Amigos Chefs.  Music by Mike Marotta, Jr. will enhance this enchanting evening.  Tickets are $100, and can be purchased at https://www.montereyhistory.org/event/italian-dinner/.  Bottom of Form

Sunday, February 15, 1-3 pm “Anton C Heidrick: The Life and Photos of an Army Bandsman on the Monterey Peninsula”, and “Custom House: A History in Drawings, photographs and fine art” presentations at the Stanton Center off Custom House Plaza.  Hear about Anton Heidrick, an early twentieth-century Monterey photographer who specialized in panoramic scenes and military subjects, a presentation by Cameron Binkley, Command Historian for the Defense Language Institute.  This will be followed by the presentation on the Custom House by Scott Gale, amateur historian and member of Monterey History and Art Association.  Free to members of Monterey History and Art Association.  Non members $10.   Tickets include free museum admission between 3-4 pm, and can be found at: https://www.montereyhistory.org/events/list/page/2/.

Saturday, February 21, 2026 4-7 pm Chocolate and Wine – A Fundraiser to support the Monterey Public Library.  This promises to be an unforgettable evening of chocolate, wine, beer and savory snacks among the stacks while supporting your local public library.   Tickets are available now at: https://www.investinmpl.org/event/21st-annual-chocolate-wine/

March 14, 12:30 PM Member Barbecue at the American Legion -Old Town Neighborhood Association is hosting a hamburger or chili dog lunch at the American Legion Post 41, 1110 Veterans Dr.   Current 2026 OTNA members are invited to a convivial lunch, held for members in the back room on the first floor.   Due to space constraints reservations are limited to the first 25 RSVPs. The lunch is free to members, paid by OTNA, however the bar is ‘no-host.’   Send your RSVP to philbussey2@gmail.com no later than March 6. This is a 2026 members-only event.   

Wednesday, March 18, 7 pm– Old Town Neighborhood Association Annual Meeting at the McCone Building Conference Room, 499 Pierce St/corner of Jefferson.  Our special speaker will be from the Old Monterey Business Association, discussing our downtown businesses and news.  We will also be having elections for our seven directors to serve a one-year term.  Currently running are (alphabetically), Corey Brunson, Phyllis Bussey, Mary Grove, Suzie Grimes, Sue Ricketson, Gari Soule’ and Nancy Soule’.  If you would like to run for a director position, please respond to this email.  Directors must be currently paid for 2026 and also have been a member the prior year.  Come in person, or attend via Zoom.

ANNOUNCEMENTS  

AT&T Opportunity – Volunteers Needed to assist at the 15^th hole concession stand at the ATT Pro Am at Pebble Beach on Friday, February 13-Sunday, February 15, supporting First Night Monterey.  Shifts are 5.5 hours, and you can sign up, select your shift and get more information at https://www.firstnightmonterey.org/.   No admission cost for volunteers.

Monterey Public Library Used Book Sale Wednesdays and Saturdays 12-2 pm.  Find a treasured bargaom in the basement below the library, entered from the parking lot.  Paperbacks $1.00.  Others as marked.  Proceeds go to support the library.

Spring 2026 First City Academy will be held March 4-May 19 and applications are now being accepted through February 9.  The course consists of nine one-week sessions on Thursdays from 6:00 to 8:30 pm, March 4 through May 14, except for a two-week break between March 20 and April 2 to coincide with school spring break. The program is designed for City of Monterey residents to learn about city programs and services, how local government operates, and to find more ways to be involved in the community.  Topics include city management, community engagement, community services, public works, police, community development, fire and emergency management, economic development, budgeting, technology, and human resources. The program includes a field trip of Monterey and a graduation ceremony at the end of the program.  Residents 16 and older may apply.  The link to apply is posted at https://monterey.gov/firstcityacademy. 

“Celebrating California Art: Artistic Alliance in Monterey, 1942-1946”, a new exhibit at Monterey Museum of Art.  This exhibit explores the artistic response to Executive Order 9066, which authorized the forced removal and incarceration of more than 100,000 people of Japanese descent.  The exhibit will be on view until April 26.

THE CITY OF MONTEREY IS ACCEPTION APPLICATION FOR BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS.  One alternate is needed for the Building and Housing Appeals Board, and a resident to represent the City of Monterey is needed on the Transportation Agency for Monterey County (TAMC) Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities Committee.  For more information, visit monterey.gov/bcc.

THE OLD TOWN HISTORIC HOMES WALK has a new addition—The Frank Hellam House at 581 Scott Street, just uphill from the Perry House.  Check it out at our website, https://oldtownmonterey.org/historic-homes-walk/the-frank-hellam-house/

Ventured Gallery Featured December/January Group Show: “Winter Musings” at Venture Gallery at the Portola Hotel and Spa, 260 Alvarado St.   

A beautiful new mural depicting Monterey Bay and Cannery Row History has been produced by Chris Shake along the recreation trail behind Austino’s Restaurant at 851 Cannery Row.   The colorful mural by artist Renae McCollum, depickts John Steinbeck, Kalisa Moore, and the Western Flyer boat that John Steinbeck and Doc Ricketts to to the Sea of Cortez in 1940. 

Sand Bag Fill Station next to the Fire Station at 600 Pacific Street is now operational for the season. This is a self-serve station.  Sand and bags are provided.  Bring your own shovel.

PGE Outage Compensation Program – If you have an outage longer than 48 hours, PGE will compensate you automatically on your bill.  For more information, go to https://www.pge.com/en/outages-and-safety/.

Free Recycling Bins are available by asking at the Planning Office, main level of Colton Hall at 570 Pacific Street, or by emailing bristow@monterey.gov to arrange for a pick up.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) next training course on three consecutive Saturdays in  February is full.  Reserve now for the next course, three consecutive Saturdays,, April 25, May 2 and May 9 from 8:30-5pm, as they fill fast.    The program instructs local citizens in a wide variety of rescue, search, emergency medical, preparedness, safety, team operations, basic fire control and community service skills. CERT members regularly respond to assist local fire and police with storm impacts, searches for missing persons, fire scenes, evacuations and many other emergency situation CERT members become sworn Disaster Service Workers (DSW).  The free training occurs in downtown Monterey.  Attendance on all three days is mandatory to graduate.   As these classes often fill up way in advance, Email certmonterey@gmail.com with your name, resident address, email you most commonly use, your cell and home phone numbers.

The Monterey Airport Board New VOLUNTARY Flight Curfew is from midnight to 5 am!   The board voted to rescind the prior ordinances which had a curfew between 11 pm and 7 am, and had limitations to how low flights could come in.  

New Zoning for R-1 Properties in Monterey.  At the August 19, 2025 meeting, the City Council voted to adopt the SB9 requirements for lot splits allowing 2 units each, for a total of four, and went further to allow six units on a single lot when a unit is an affordable housing unit.  They did not want to defer until the lawsuit by other Charter cities (Monterey is a charter city) is settled on appeal.  In the original lawsuit, the court found that the state could not direct zoning in Charter cities.  The vote was 3-2 with the mayor, Councilman Gino Garcia, and Councilwoman Dr. Kim Barber approving (District 1, most of Old Town), and Councilman Ed Smith (District 2, most eastern part of Old Town) and Jean Rasch (a slim part of Old Town on Madison) opposing. 

Invitation to Wednesday and Saturday Barbecues at the American Legion.  At our Old Town Neighborhood Association Meeting on Wednesday, August 20, our speaker from the American Legion wanted to be sure that we, their neighbors, are always invited to attend the Wednesday Steak Barbecues (at $15, a bargain) and the Saturday Grills of Hot Dogs/ Hamburgers (under $6).  Soft drinks are reasonable and it’s a nice way to meet our veterans.

LOST AND FOUND: If you left your navy cotton jacket at the July picnic in Veterans Park, please reply to this bulletin.  

Rental Registry Compliance – All rental properties must be in compliance with the city rental registry ordinance, and be registered annually. 

The Monterey Public Library is now fine-free! 

Annual Residential Parking Passes are available to residents of Monterey and active military for $20, good for two hours at both East and West Downtown Garages, Cannery Row Garage and the Waterfront lot.  Bring proof of residency, vehicle registration and ID to Parking office, 340 Tyler Street in the East Garage.   See Monterey.org/parking for more information.

City of Monterey Accepting Applications for Boards, Committees, and Commissions.  For position descriptions and requirements, please go to Monterey.gov/bcc.

Free Wharf Walks by Maritime Historian Tim Thomas the first Saturday of every month from 10am to noon.  Hear and experience a two hour cultural maritime history tour, with themes changing monthly.  Meet at the head of Old Fisherman’s Wharf near the pink Harbor House store. Free, but advance reservations are required and can be made at monterey.gov/library/events or by calling 831-646-3933.  This tour is recommended for ages 10 and up with a maximum group of 15 people.

The Presidio Museum of Monterey is open Saturdays and Sundays 10-4 pm – Learn the fascinating history of our Presidio, including the early indigenous settlers, the founding of the fort, the history during three wars, and the history of the Buffalo Soldiers. An interpretive walk with great views of the bay lead up to the Sloat Monument.  You can take a short cut from Van Buren over the creek bridge to reach it from Old Town.  Free.   Please consider volunteering as a docent for this great museum!

Free Public Tours of Ed Ricketts Pacific Biological Laboratories Second Saturdays, 10:00-11:00 and 11:30-12:30 pm, subject to availability. Modeled after famed ecologist Ed Ricketts, “Doc” was featured prominently in John Steinbeck’s novels about Cannery Row. The Lab at 800 Cannery Row was also where the idea of the Monterey Jazz Festival was born and welcomed such prominent figures as Louis Armstrong. Reserve in advance at monterey.gov/museums or by calling 831-646-5648. Visitors are also welcome to drop by without a reservation to self-tour this historic site from 12:00-4:00 pm on the second Saturday.

Casa Serano, the historic adobe at 412 Pacific Street, is now open for free visits on Saturday and Sunday 2-4 pm.  Docents can help you learn the interesting history of this adobe built in 1843, as you peruse the art and furnishings.

Old Town Neighborhood Association’s website is LIVE!  Visit oldtownmonterey.org for the latest on events, issues, and to find the Historic Homes self-guided walk featuring historic homes in our Old Town neighborhood.  Photos of the July 13 picnic are now posted on the social page of the website.

COMMUNITY GROUPS AND CLUBS

Are you interested in finding others with your interests?  Below are some of the other local organizations that welcome new members:

American Association of University Women – This national organization promotes equity for women in the workplace and in education.  In addition to supporting education through scholarships, they have book clubs, social events, monthly speakers, a Romancing the Coast monthly adventure, a hiking/walking group, and other interesting events.   See http://mpb-ca.aauw.net for more information. 

Monterey Civic Club – Founded in 1906, the club owns and meets monthly at the House of the Four Winds, located at 540 Calle Principal. This beautiful and historic adobe is believed to be the oldest women’s clubhouse in continuous use in the United States.  Members meet the first Tuesday of each month for lunch and a social program ($25), often with a speaker of importance to members.  Contact (831) 747-1072 for more information.

Gentrain Society is an organization for life-long learners.  They generally meet the first and third Wednesdays from 1:30-2:30 at the Monterey Peninsula College Lecture Forum #103.  Lectures are free and open to the public (except $3.00 parking fee).  Topics range from drama, history, and understanding civilizations and more.  Courses are also offered, along with trips organized for special events.

Native Daughters of the Golden West – founded in 1880s, for women born in California.  The Monterey Junipero Parlor No 141 meets at 6:30 pm in the Casa Serrano on the second Monday of each month.  An added benefit is that members can stay at the NDGW home designed by Julia Morgan on Baker Street in San Francisco.  For more information, call or text Jerilynn Crivello at 831-320-2080.

Kiwanis Club of Monterey –founded in 1926, helps support community projects, scholarships, and youth groups in our community. Learn more at http://www.kiwanisclubmonterey.org or by emailing factpath-kiwanis@yahoo.com.

Not Yet a Member of Old Town Neighborhood Association? Annual membership dues are just $20 for two adults in your household which covers the calendar year in which paid.  Your dues help support social events and technical costs of website, Zoom meetings, and newsletter. Members can be renters, owners or landlords of a property in Old Town.  Learn how to become a member on our website! If you have any questions, contact us!   All residents living above Pacific St between the creek near Madison and the Presidio/DLI are eligible.   Checks to OTNA can be mailed, along with your names, address, phone and email to our address below.   Old Town Neighborhood Association P O Box 724, Monterey, CA  93942

This information is being shared as a service by Old Town Neighborhood Association.  Information is presumed accurate, but is not guaranteed, and always subject to change.   Visit our website at oldtownmonterey.org.

Zoom instructions for tonight’s Old Town Neighborhood Association meeting are included below:

Wednesday, January 21, 2026, 7 pm – Old Town Neighborhood Association Meeting at the MIIS McKone Building Conference Room, 499 Pierce Street/corner of Jefferson.   We will hear from our committees and discuss future plans.  If you would like to join a committee or work on the board, please respond to this email and/or come to the meeting.   You can also join our meeting from PC, Mac, Linux, iOS or Android: https://middlebury.zoom.us/j/91361720063?pwd=QGcSAXaan4W9SW8P7FrFNYQZ7d6IQ8.1
    Password: 6422

URGENT RESPONSE NEEDED “Stand Up, Save Our Coast”.  The deadline for comments regarding the US Department of the Interior’s new Five-Year Off Shore Drilling Plan is fast approaching.  THE NEED IS CRITICAL FOR THE PUBLIC TO SEND MESSAGES TO CONGRESS BY 9 PM, FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, as our marine sanctuary is in threat (two are proposed along the central coast), as are all the waters off California’s coast.  Even though our marine sanctuary status makes drilling illegal, this is being ignored in the plan presented, which can be found at saveourshores.org/drilling/?blm_aid=38077.  Send comments to regulations.gov and reference BOEM-2025-0483.  You can remain anonymous if you wish.  What you say is less important than to let them know if you are for or against the proposed leases, as they need to know the public sentiment.  You can simply state this.  Please spread the word, as the January 23 deadline when the comment period ends is only 2 days away. 

Sunday, February 1, 1-3 pm Histories of the Monterey Waterfront at the Stanton Center off Custom House Plaza.   “A is for Abalone: the Japanese on the Monterey Wharaf, 1900-1941” will be presented by maritime historian Tim Thomas.   “The Sicilian Experience and Fisherman’s Wharf” will be presented by Bob Eneas, whose grandfather and uncle were pioneer sardine fishermen in Monterey.  Free to members of Monterey History and Art.  $10 for non-members.

Saturday, February 14, 2026, 1-4 pm – Stanton Center Free Open House.  See new exhibits by Emile Norman, “”On the Waterfront: The Chris Shake Collection”,  and “Vaqueros, Cowboys and Ranch Life”.  Old Town residents may also be interested in Scott Gale’s “Los Perdidos y Los Salvados”, the lost and saved historic Monterey buildings.

Saturday, February 14, 2026. 5:30-8:00, Italian Dinner at the beautiful Casa Serano, 412 Pacific Street, a fundraiser for Monterey History and Art Association.  Relive the days when the Cademartori Restaurant was thriving in the Casa Serano building with a fabulous Italian dinner featuring lasagna, spaghetti and more prepared by Los Amigos Chefs.  Music by Mike Marotta, Jr. will enhance this enchanting evening.  Tickets are $100, and can be purchased at https://www.montereyhistory.org/event/italian-dinner/.  Bottom of Form

Saturday, February 21, 2026 4-7 pm Chocolate and Wine – A Fundraiser to support the Monterey Public Library.  This promises to be an unforgettable evening of chocolate, wine, beer and savory snacks among the stacks while supporting your local public library.   Tickets are available now at: https://www.investinmpl.org/event/21st-annual-chocolate-wine/

ANNOUNCEMENTS  

Spring 2026 First City Academy will be held March 4-May 19 and applications are now being accepted through February 9.  The course consists of nine one-week sessions on Thursdays from 6:00 to 8:30 pm, March 4 through May 14, except for a two-week break between March 20 and April 2 to coincide with school spring break. The program is designed for City of Monterey residents to learn about city programs and services, how local government operates, and to find more ways to be involved in the community.  Topics include city management, community engagement, community services, public works, police, community development, fire and emergency management, economic development, budgeting, technology, and human resources. The program includes a field trip of Monterey and a graduation ceremony at the end of the program.  Residents 16 and older may apply.  The link to apply is posted at https://monterey.gov/firstcityacademy. 

“Celebrating California Art: Artistic Alliance in Monterey, 1942-1946”, a new exhibit at Monterey Museum of Art.  This exhibit explores the artistic response to Executive Order 9066, which authorized the forced removal and incarceration of more than 100,000 people of Japanese descent.  The exhibit will be on view until April 26.

THE CITY OF MONTEREY IS ACCEPTION APPLICATION FOR BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS.  One alternate is needed for the Building and Housing Appeals Board, and a resident to represent the City of Monterey is needed on the Transportation Agency for Monterey County (TAMC) Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities Committee.  For more information, visit monterey.gov/bcc.

THE OLD TOWN HISTORIC HOMES WALK has a new addition—The Frank Hellam House at 581 Scott Street, just uphill from the Perry House.  Check it out at our website, https://oldtownmonterey.org/historic-homes-walk/the-frank-hellam-house/

Ventured Gallery Featured December/January Group Show: “Winter Musings” at Venture Gallery at the Portola Hotel and Spa, 260 Alvarado St.   

A beautiful new mural depicting Monterey Bay and Cannery Row History has been produced by Chris Shake along the recreation trail behind Austino’s Restaurant at 851 Cannery Row.   The colorful mural by artist Renae McCollum, depickts John Steinbeck, Kalisa Moore, and the Western Flyer boat that John Steinbeck and Doc Ricketts to to the Sea of Cortez in 1940. 

Sand Bag Fill Station next to the Fire Station at 600 Pacific Street is now operational for the season. This is a self-serve station.  Sand and bags are provided.  Bring your own shovel.

PGE Outage Compensation Program – If you have an outage longer than 48 hours, PGE will compensate you automatically on your bill.  For more information, go to https://www.pge.com/en/outages-and-safety/.

Free Recycling Bins are available by asking at the Planning Office, main level of Colton Hall at 570 Pacific Street, or by emailing bristow@monterey.gov to arrange for a pick up.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) next training course on three consecutive Saturdays in  February is full.  Reserve now for the next course, three consecutive Saturdays,, April 25, May 2 and May 9 from 8:30-5pm, as they fill fast.    The program instructs local citizens in a wide variety of rescue, search, emergency medical, preparedness, safety, team operations, basic fire control and community service skills. CERT members regularly respond to assist local fire and police with storm impacts, searches for missing persons, fire scenes, evacuations and many other emergency situation CERT members become sworn Disaster Service Workers (DSW).  The free training occurs in downtown Monterey.  Attendance on all three days is mandatory to graduate.   As these classes often fill up way in advance, Email certmonterey@gmail.com with your name, resident address, email you most commonly use, your cell and home phone numbers.

The Monterey Airport Board New VOLUNTARY Flight Curfew is from midnight to 5 am!   The board voted to rescind the prior ordinances which had a curfew between 11 pm and 7 am, and had limitations to how low flights could come in.  

New Zoning for R-1 Properties in Monterey.  At the August 19, 2025 meeting, the City Council voted to adopt the SB9 requirements for lot splits allowing 2 units each, for a total of four, and went further to allow six units on a single lot when a unit is an affordable housing unit.  They did not want to defer until the lawsuit by other Charter cities (Monterey is a charter city) is settled on appeal.  In the original lawsuit, the court found that the state could not direct zoning in Charter cities.  The vote was 3-2 with the mayor, Councilman Gino Garcia, and Councilwoman Dr. Kim Barber approving (District 1, most of Old Town), and Councilman Ed Smith (District 2, most eastern part of Old Town) and Jean Rasch (a slim part of Old Town on Madison) opposing. 

Invitation to Wednesday and Saturday Barbecues at the American Legion.  At our Old Town Neighborhood Association Meeting on Wednesday, August 20, our speaker from the American Legion wanted to be sure that we, their neighbors, are always invited to attend the Wednesday Steak Barbecues (at $15, a bargain) and the Saturday Grills of Hot Dogs/ Hamburgers (under $6).  Soft drinks are reasonable and it’s a nice way to meet our veterans.

LOST AND FOUND: If you left your navy cotton jacket at the July picnic in Veterans Park, please reply to this bulletin.  

Rental Registry Compliance – All rental properties must be in compliance with the city rental registry ordinance, and be registered annually. 

The Monterey Public Library is now fine-free! 

Annual Residential Parking Passes are available to residents of Monterey and active military for $20, good for two hours at both East and West Downtown Garages, Cannery Row Garage and the Waterfront lot.  Bring proof of residency, vehicle registration and ID to Parking office, 340 Tyler Street in the East Garage.   See Monterey.org/parking for more information.

City of Monterey Accepting Applications for Boards, Committees, and Commissions.  For position descriptions and requirements, please go to Monterey.gov/bcc.

MIIS Student Housing Needed!  Do you have an extra bedroom in your house or a local rental?  Consider renting to a Middlebury Institute of International Studies (MIIS) student!  The housing crisis in Monterey is deeply affecting our student population with low inventory and high prices.  MIIS is reaching out to our community to form partnerships with local landlords and homeowners.  For more information, go to this link: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGb0hGd1Qk/V0hDlFvuILlZKtzRyIWIcQ/view?utm_content=DAGb0hGd1Qk&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=hba13c991dc.  Still have questions?  Contact the MIIS Landlord Coordinator Naomi Braswell at nbraswell@middlebury.edu or at (831) 647-4120.

Free Wharf Walks by Maritime Historian Tim Thomas the first Saturday of every month from 10am to noon.  Hear and experience a two hour cultural maritime history tour, with themes changing monthly.  Meet at the head of Old Fisherman’s Wharf near the pink Harbor House store. Free, but advance reservations are required and can be made at monterey.gov/library/events or by calling 831-646-3933.  This tour is recommended for ages 10 and up with a maximum group of 15 people.

The Presidio Museum of Monterey is open Saturdays and Sundays 10-4 pm – Learn the fascinating history of our Presidio, including the early indigenous settlers, the founding of the fort, the history during three wars, and the history of the Buffalo Soldiers. An interpretive walk with great views of the bay lead up to the Sloat Monument.  You can take a short cut from Van Buren over the creek bridge to reach it from Old Town.  Free.   Please consider volunteering as a docent for this great museum!

Free Public Tours of Ed Ricketts Pacific Biological Laboratories Second Saturdays, 10:00-11:00 and 11:30-12:30 pm, subject to availability. Modeled after famed ecologist Ed Ricketts, “Doc” was featured prominently in John Steinbeck’s novels about Cannery Row. The Lab at 800 Cannery Row was also where the idea of the Monterey Jazz Festival was born and welcomed such prominent figures as Louis Armstrong. Reserve in advance at monterey.gov/museums or by calling 831-646-5648. Visitors are also welcome to drop by without a reservation to self-tour this historic site from 12:00-4:00 pm on the second Saturday.

Casa Serano, the historic adobe at 412 Pacific Street, is now open for free visits on Saturday and Sunday 2-4 pm.  Docents can help you learn the interesting history of this adobe built in 1843, as you peruse the art and furnishings.

Old Town Neighborhood Association’s website is LIVE!  Visit oldtownmonterey.org for the latest on events, issues, and to find the Historic Homes self-guided walk featuring historic homes in our Old Town neighborhood.  Photos of the July 13 picnic are now posted on the social page of the website.

COMMUNITY GROUPS AND CLUBS

Are you interested in finding others with your interests?  Below are some of the other local organizations that welcome new members:

American Association of University Women – This national organization promotes equity for women in the workplace and in education.  In addition to supporting education through scholarships, they have book clubs, social events, monthly speakers, a Romancing the Coast monthly adventure, a hiking/walking group, and other interesting events.   See http://mpb-ca.aauw.net for more information. 

Monterey Civic Club – Founded in 1906, the club owns and meets monthly at the House of the Four Winds, located at 540 Calle Principal. This beautiful and historic adobe is believed to be the oldest women’s clubhouse in continuous use in the United States.  Members meet the first Tuesday of each month for lunch and a social program ($25), often with a speaker of importance to members.  Contact (831) 747-1072 for more information.

Gentrain Society is an organization for life-long learners.  They generally meet the first and third Wednesdays from 1:30-2:30 at the Monterey Peninsula College Lecture Forum #103.  Lectures are free and open to the public (except $3.00 parking fee).  Topics range from drama, history, and understanding civilizations and more.  Courses are also offered, along with trips organized for special events.

Native Daughters of the Golden West – founded in 1880s, for women born in California.  The Monterey Junipero Parlor No 141 meets at 6:30 pm in the Casa Serrano on the second Monday of each month.  An added benefit is that members can stay at the NDGW home designed by Julia Morgan on Baker Street in San Francisco.  For more information, call or text Jerilynn Crivello at 831-320-2080.

Kiwanis Club of Monterey –founded in 1926, helps support community projects, scholarships, and youth groups in our community. Learn more at http://www.kiwanisclubmonterey.org or by emailing factpath-kiwanis@yahoo.com.

Not Yet a Member of Old Town Neighborhood Association? Annual membership dues are just $20 for two adults in your household which covers the calendar year in which paid.  Your dues help support social events and technical costs of website, Zoom meetings, and newsletter. Members can be renters, owners or landlords of a property in Old Town.  Learn how to become a member on our website! If you have any questions, contact us!   All residents living above Pacific St between the creek near Madison and the Presidio/DLI are eligible.   Checks to OTNA can be mailed, along with your names, address, phone and email to our address below.   Old Town Neighborhood Association P O Box 724, Monterey, CA  93942

This information is being shared as a service by Old Town Neighborhood Association.  Information is presumed accurate, but is not guaranteed, and always subject to change.   Visit our website at oldtownmonterey.org.

URGENT RESPONSE NEEDED “Stand Up, Save Our Coast”.  You may have attended last night’s packed meeting at the Portola Hotel Conference Center or seen on television this morning the discussion of the US Department of the Interior’s new Five-Year Off Shore Drilling Plan.   THE NEED IS CRITICAL FOR THE PUBLIC TO SEND LETTERS TO CONGRESS PRIOR TO JANUARY 23, as our marine sanctuary is in threat (two oil platforms are proposed along the central coast), as are all the waters off California’s coast.  Even though our marine sanctuary status makes drilling illegal, this is being ignored in the plan presented, which can be found at saveourshores.org/drilling/?blm_aid=38077.  Send comments to regulations.gov and referencing BOEM-2025-0483.  This is a bi-partisan issue, and is so very urgent!   Please spread the word, as the January 23 deadline when the comment period ends is only 13 days away.  If you have high-schoolers, ask if they can announce to their classmates this need for their letters too, as the health of our coast and planet is what their generation will inherit. 

Wednesday, January 21, 2026, 7 pm – Old Town Neighborhood Association Meeting at the MIIS McKone Building Conference Room, 499 Pierce Street/corner of Jefferson.   We will hear from our committees and discuss future plans.  If you would like to join a committee or work on the board, please respond to this email and/or come to the meeting.   We will have elections at our March meeting.

Saturday, February 21, 2026 4-7 pm Chocolate and Wine – A Fundraiser to support the Monterey Public Library.  This promises to be an unforgettable evening of chocolate, wine, beer and savory snacks among the stacks while supporting your local public library.   Consider purchasing advance tickets as a stocking stuffer!   Tickets available now at: https://www.investinmpl.org/event/21st-annual-chocolate-wine/

ANNOUNCEMENTS  

“Celebrating California Art: Artistic Alliance in Monterey, 1942-1946”, a new exhibit at Monterey Museum of Art.  This exhibit explores the artistic response to Executive Order 9066, which authorized the forced removal and incarceration of more than 100,000 people of Japanese descent.  The exhibit will be on view until April 26, 2026.

THE CITY OF MONTEREY IS ACCEPTION APPLICATION FOR BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS.  One alternate is needed for the Building and Housing Appeals Board, and a resident to represent the City of Monterey is needed on the Transportation Agency for Monterey County (TAMC) Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities Committee.  For more information, visit monterey.gov/bcc.

THE OLD TOWN HISTORIC HOMES WALK has a new addition—The Frank Hellam House at 581 Scott Street, just uphill from the Perry House.   Check it out at our website, https://oldtownmonterey.org/historic-homes-walk/the-frank-hellam-house/

Ventured Gallery Featured December/January Group Show: “Winter Musings” at Venture Gallery at the Portola Hotel and Spa, 260 Alvarado St.   

A beautiful new mural depicting Monterey Bay and Cannery Row History has been produced by Chris Shake along the recreation trail behind Austino’s Restaurant at 851 Cannery Row.   The colorful mural by artist Renae McCollum, depickts John Steinbeck, Kalisa Moore, and the Western Flyer boat that John Steinbeck and Doc Ricketts to to the Sea of Cortez in 1940. 

Sand Bag Fill Station next to the Fire Station at 600 Pacific Street is now operational for the season. This is a self-serve station.  Sand and bags are provided.  Bring your own shovel.

PGE Outage Compensation Program – If you have an outage longer than 48 hours, PGE will compensate you automatically on your bill.  For more information, go to https://www.pge.com/en/outages-and-safety/.

Free Recycling Bins are available by asking at the Planning Office, main level of Colton Hall at 570 Pacific Street, or by emailing bristow@monterey.gov to arrange for a pick up.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) next training course on three consecutive Saturdays in  February is full.  Reserve now for the next course, three consecutive Saturdays,, April 25, May 2 and May 9 from 8:30-5pm, as they fill fast. The program instructs local citizens in a wide variety of rescue, search, emergency medical, preparedness, safety, team operations, basic fire control and community service skills. CERT members regularly respond to assist local fire and police with storm impacts, searches for missing persons, fire scenes, evacuations and many other emergency situation CERT members become sworn Disaster Service Workers (DSW).  The free training occurs in downtown Monterey.  Attendance on all three days is mandatory to graduate.   As these classes often fill up way in advance, Email certmonterey@gmail.com with your name, resident address, email you most commonly use, your cell and home phone numbers.

The Monterey Airport Board New VOLUNTARY Flight Curfew is from midnight to 5 am!   The board voted to rescind the prior ordinances which had a curfew between 11 pm and 7 am, and had limitations to how low flights could come in.  

New Zoning for R-1 Properties in Monterey.  At the August 19, 2025 meeting, the City Council voted to adopt the SB9 requirements for lot splits allowing 2 units each, for a total of four, and went further to allow six units on a single lot when a unit is an affordable housing unit.  They did not want to defer until the lawsuit by other Charter cities (Monterey is a charter city) is settled on appeal.  In the original lawsuit, the court found that the state could not direct zoning in Charter cities.  The vote was 3-2 with the mayor, Councilman Gino Garcia, and Councilwoman Dr. Kim Barber approving (District 1, most of Old Town), and Councilman Ed Smith (District 2, most eastern part of Old Town) and Jean Rasch (a slim part of Old Town on Madison) opposing. 

Invitation to Wednesday and Saturday Barbecues at the American Legion.  At our Old Town Neighborhood Association Meeting on Wednesday, August 20, our speaker from the American Legion wanted to be sure that we, their neighbors, are always invited to attend the Wednesday Steak Barbecues (at $15, a bargain) and the Saturday Grills of Hot Dogs/ Hamburgers (under $6).  Soft drinks are reasonable and it’s a nice way to meet our veterans.

LOST AND FOUND: If you left your navy cotton jacket at the July picnic in Veterans Park, please reply to this bulletin.  

Rental Registry Compliance – All rental properties must be in compliance with the city rental registry ordinance, and be registered annually. 

The Monterey Public Library is now fine-free! 

Annual Residential Parking Passes are available to residents of Monterey and active military for $20, good for two hours at both East and West Downtown Garages, Cannery Row Garage and the Waterfront lot.  Bring proof of residency, vehicle registration and ID to Parking office, 340 Tyler Street in the East Garage.   See Monterey.org/parking for more information.

City of Monterey Accepting Applications for Boards, Committees, and Commissions.  For position descriptions and requirements, please go to Monterey.gov/bcc.

MIIS Student Housing Needed!  Do you have an extra bedroom in your house or a local rental?  Consider renting to a Middlebury Institute of International Studies (MIIS) student!  The housing crisis in Monterey is deeply affecting our student population with low inventory and high prices.  MIIS is reaching out to our community to form partnerships with local landlords and homeowners.  For more information, go to this link: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGb0hGd1Qk/V0hDlFvuILlZKtzRyIWIcQ/view?utm_content=DAGb0hGd1Qk&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=hba13c991dc.  Still have questions?  Contact the MIIS Landlord Coordinator Naomi Braswell at nbraswell@middlebury.edu or at (831) 647-4120.

Free Wharf Walks by Maritime Historian Tim Thomas the first Saturday of every month from 10am to noon.  Hear and experience a two hour cultural maritime history tour, with themes changing monthly.  Meet at the head of Old Fisherman’s Wharf near the pink Harbor House store. Free, but advance reservations are required and can be made at monterey.gov/library/events or by calling 831-646-3933.  This tour is recommended for ages 10 and up with a maximum group of 15 people.

The Presidio Museum of Monterey is open Saturdays and Sundays 10-4 pm – Learn the fascinating history of our Presidio, including the early indigenous settlers, the founding of the fort, the history during three wars, and the history of the Buffalo Soldiers. An interpretive walk with great views of the bay lead up to the Sloat Monument.  You can take a short cut from Van Buren over the creek bridge to reach it from Old Town.  Free.   Please consider volunteering as a docent for this great museum!

Free Public Tours of Ed Ricketts Pacific Biological Laboratories Second Saturdays, 10:00-11:00 and 11:30-12:30 pm, subject to availability. Modeled after famed ecologist Ed Ricketts, “Doc” was featured prominently in John Steinbeck’s novels about Cannery Row. The Lab at 800 Cannery Row was also where the idea of the Monterey Jazz Festival was born and welcomed such prominent figures as Louis Armstrong. Reserve in advance at monterey.gov/museums or by calling 831-646-5648. Visitors are also welcome to drop by without a reservation to self-tour this historic site from 12:00-4:00 pm on the second Saturday.

Casa Serano, the historic adobe at 412 Pacific Street, is now open for free visits on Saturday and Sunday 2-4 pm.  Docents can help you learn the interesting history of this adobe built in 1843, as you peruse the art and furnishings.

Old Town Neighborhood Association’s website is LIVE!  Visit oldtownmonterey.org for the latest on events, issues, and to find the Historic Homes self-guided walk featuring historic homes in our Old Town neighborhood.  Photos of the July 13 picnic are now posted on the social page of the website.

COMMUNITY GROUPS AND CLUBS

Are you interested in finding others with your interests?  Below are some of the other local organizations that welcome new members:

American Association of University Women – This national organization promotes equity for women in the workplace and in education.  In addition to supporting education through scholarships, they have book clubs, social events, monthly speakers, a Romancing the Coast monthly adventure, a hiking/walking group, and other interesting events.   See http://mpb-ca.aauw.net for more information. 

Monterey Civic Club – Founded in 1906, the club owns and meets monthly at the House of the Four Winds, located at 540 Calle Principal. This beautiful and historic adobe is believed to be the oldest women’s clubhouse in continuous use in the United States.  Members meet the first Tuesday of each month for lunch and a social program ($25), often with a speaker of importance to members.  Contact (831) 747-1072 for more information.

Gentrain Society is an organization for life-long learners.  They generally meet the first and third Wednesdays from 1:30-2:30 at the Monterey Peninsula College Lecture Forum #103.  Lectures are free and open to the public (except $3.00 parking fee).  Topics range from drama, history, and understanding civilizations and more.  Courses are also offered, along with trips organized for special events.

Native Daughters of the Golden West – founded in 1880s, for women born in California.  The Monterey Junipero Parlor No 141 meets at 6:30 pm in the Casa Serrano on the second Monday of each month.  An added benefit is that members can stay at the NDGW home designed by Julia Morgan on Baker Street in San Francisco.  For more information, call or text Jerilynn Crivello at 831-320-2080.

Kiwanis Club of Monterey –founded in 1926, helps support community projects, scholarships, and youth groups in our community. Learn more at http://www.kiwanisclubmonterey.org or by emailing factpath-kiwanis@yahoo.com.

Not Yet a Member of Old Town Neighborhood Association? Annual membership dues are just $20 for two adults in your household which covers the calendar year in which paid.  Your dues help support social events and technical costs of website, Zoom meetings, and newsletter. Members can be renters, owners or landlords of a property in Old Town.  Learn how to become a member on our website! If you have any questions, contact us!   All residents living above Pacific St between the creek near Madison and the Presidio/DLI are eligible.   Checks to OTNA can be mailed, along with your names, address, phone and email to our address below.   Old Town Neighborhood Association P O Box 724, Monterey, CA  93942

This information is being shared as a service by Old Town Neighborhood Association.  Information is presumed accurate, but is not guaranteed, and always subject to change.   Visit our website at oldtownmonterey.org.

Friday, January 9, 2026, 6-8 pm “Stand Up, Save Our Coast”, an important panel discussion of the US Department of the Interior’s new Five-Year Off Shore Drilling Plan, at the Portola Hotel Conference Center.  This important issue affecting waters off the central coast will be discussed by our federal, state, and local officials, as well representatives from the Monterey Bay Aquarium, Oceana, Save Our Shores, Surfrider Monterey, and Monterey Bay Fisheries Trust.  Government speakers include Congressman Panetta, CA Senator Laird, County Supervisors Kate Daniels and Chris Lopez, and Mayor Tyller Williamson.  Free parking for attendees at the Portola Hotel Garage (bring ticket for validation).  

Friday, January 9, 2026 –“Celebrating California Art: Artistic Alliance in Monterey, 1942-1946”, the opening of a new exhibit at Monterey Museum of Art.  This exhibit explores the artistic response to Executive Order 9066, which authorized the forced removal and incarceration of more than 100,000 people of Japanese descent.  The exhibit will be on view until April 26, 2026.

Wednesday, January 21, 2026, 7 pm – Old Town Neighborhood Association Meeting at the MIIS McKone Building Conference Room, 499 Pierce Street/corner of Jefferson.   We will hear from our committees and discuss future plans.  If you would like to join a committee or work on the board, please respond to this email and/or come to the meeting.   We will have elections at our March meeting.

Saturday, February 21, 2026 4-7 pm Chocolate and Wine – A Fundraiser to support the Monterey Public Library.  This promises to be an unforgettable evening of chocolate, wine, beer and savory snacks among the stacks while supporting your local public library.   Consider purchasing advance tickets as a stocking stuffer!   Tickets available now at: https://www.investinmpl.org/event/21st-annual-chocolate-wine/

ANNOUNCEMENTS  

THE CITY OF MONTEREY IS ACCEPTION APPLICATION FOR BOARDS, COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS.  One alternate is needed for the Building and Housing Appeals Board, and a resident to represent the City of Monterey is needed on the Transportation Agency for Monterey County (TAMC) Bicycle and Pedestrian Facilities Committee.  For more information, visit monterey.gov/bcc.

THE OLD TOWN HISTORIC HOMES WALK has a new addition—The Frank Hellam House at 581 Scott Street, just uphill from the Perry House.   Check it out at our website, https://oldtownmonterey.org/historic-homes-walk/the-frank-hellam-house/

Ventured Gallery Featured December/January Group Show: “Winter Musings” at Venture Gallery at the Portola Hotel and Spa, 260 Alvarado St.   

A beautiful new mural depicting Monterey Bay and Cannery Row History has been produced by Chris Shake along the recreation trail behind Austino’s Restaurant at 851 Cannery Row.   The colorful mural by artist Renae McCollum, depickts John Steinbeck, Kalisa Moore, and the Western Flyer boat that John Steinbeck and Doc Ricketts to to the Sea of Cortez in 1940. 

Sand Bag Fill Station next to the Fire Station at 600 Pacific Street is now operational for the season. This is a self-serve station.  Sand and bags are provided.  Bring your own shovel.

PGE Outage Compensation Program – If you have an outage longer than 48 hours, PGE will compensate you automatically on your bill.  For more information, go to https://www.pge.com/en/outages-and-safety/.

Free Recycling Bins are available by asking at the Planning Office, main level of Colton Hall at 570 Pacific Street, or by emailing bristow@monterey.gov to arrange for a pick up.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) next training course on three consecutive Saturdays in  February is full.  Reserve now for the next course, three consecutive Saturdays,, April 25, May 2 and May 9 from 8:30-5pm, as they fill fast.    The program instructs local citizens in a wide variety of rescue, search, emergency medical, preparedness, safety, team operations, basic fire control and community service skills. CERT members regularly respond to assist local fire and police with storm impacts, searches for missing persons, fire scenes, evacuations and many other emergency situation CERT members become sworn Disaster Service Workers (DSW).  The free training occurs in downtown Monterey.  Attendance on all three days is mandatory to graduate.   As these classes often fill up way in advance, Email certmonterey@gmail.com with your name, resident address, email you most commonly use, your cell and home phone numbers.

The Monterey Airport Board New VOLUNTARY Flight Curfew is from midnight to 5 am!   The board voted to rescind the prior ordinances which had a curfew between 11 pm and 7 am, and had limitations to how low flights could come in.  

New Zoning for R-1 Properties in Monterey.  At the August 19, 2025 meeting, the City Council voted to adopt the SB9 requirements for lot splits allowing 2 units each, for a total of four, and went further to allow six units on a single lot when a unit is an affordable housing unit.  They did not want to defer until the lawsuit by other Charter cities (Monterey is a charter city) is settled on appeal.  In the original lawsuit, the court found that the state could not direct zoning in Charter cities.  The vote was 3-2 with the mayor, Councilman Gino Garcia, and Councilwoman Dr. Kim Barber approving (District 1, most of Old Town), and Councilman Ed Smith (District 2, most eastern part of Old Town) and Jean Rasch (a slim part of Old Town on Madison) opposing. 

Invitation to Wednesday and Saturday Barbecues at the American Legion.  At our Old Town Neighborhood Association Meeting on Wednesday, August 20, our speaker from the American Legion wanted to be sure that we, their neighbors, are always invited to attend the Wednesday Steak Barbecues (at $15, a bargain) and the Saturday Grills of Hot Dogs/ Hamburgers (under $6).  Soft drinks are reasonable and it’s a nice way to meet our veterans.

LOST AND FOUND: If you left your navy cotton jacket at the July picnic in Veterans Park, please reply to this bulletin.  

Rental Registry Compliance – All rental properties must be in compliance with the city rental registry ordinance, and be registered annually. 

The Monterey Public Library is now fine-free! 

Annual Residential Parking Passes are available to residents of Monterey and active military for $20, good for two hours at both East and West Downtown Garages, Cannery Row Garage and the Waterfront lot.  Bring proof of residency, vehicle registration and ID to Parking office, 340 Tyler Street in the East Garage.   See Monterey.org/parking for more information.

City of Monterey Accepting Applications for Boards, Committees, and Commissions.  For position descriptions and requirements, please go to Monterey.gov/bcc.

MIIS Student Housing Needed!  Do you have an extra bedroom in your house or a local rental?  Consider renting to a Middlebury Institute of International Studies (MIIS) student!  The housing crisis in Monterey is deeply affecting our student population with low inventory and high prices.  MIIS is reaching out to our community to form partnerships with local landlords and homeowners.  For more information, go to this link: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGb0hGd1Qk/V0hDlFvuILlZKtzRyIWIcQ/view?utm_content=DAGb0hGd1Qk&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=hba13c991dc.  Still have questions?  Contact the MIIS Landlord Coordinator Naomi Braswell at nbraswell@middlebury.edu or at (831) 647-4120.

Free Wharf Walks by Maritime Historian Tim Thomas the first Saturday of every month from 10am to noon.  Hear and experience a two hour cultural maritime history tour, with themes changing monthly.  Meet at the head of Old Fisherman’s Wharf near the pink Harbor House store. Free, but advance reservations are required and can be made at monterey.gov/library/events or by calling 831-646-3933.  This tour is recommended for ages 10 and up with a maximum group of 15 people.

The Presidio Museum of Monterey is open Saturdays and Sundays 10-4 pm – Learn the fascinating history of our Presidio, including the early indigenous settlers, the founding of the fort, the history during three wars, and the history of the Buffalo Soldiers. An interpretive walk with great views of the bay lead up to the Sloat Monument.  You can take a short cut from Van Buren over the creek bridge to reach it from Old Town.  Free.   Please consider volunteering as a docent for this great museum!

Free Public Tours of Ed Ricketts Pacific Biological Laboratories Second Saturdays, 10:00-11:00 and 11:30-12:30 pm, subject to availability. Modeled after famed ecologist Ed Ricketts, “Doc” was featured prominently in John Steinbeck’s novels about Cannery Row. The Lab at 800 Cannery Row was also where the idea of the Monterey Jazz Festival was born and welcomed such prominent figures as Louis Armstrong. Reserve in advance at monterey.gov/museums or by calling 831-646-5648. Visitors are also welcome to drop by without a reservation to self-tour this historic site from 12:00-4:00 pm on the second Saturday.

Casa Serano, the historic adobe at 412 Pacific Street, is now open for free visits on Saturday and Sunday 2-4 pm.  Docents can help you learn the interesting history of this adobe built in 1843, as you peruse the art and furnishings.

Old Town Neighborhood Association’s website is LIVE!  Visit oldtownmonterey.org for the latest on events, issues, and to find the Historic Homes self-guided walk featuring historic homes in our Old Town neighborhood.  Photos of the July 13 picnic are now posted on the social page of the website.

COMMUNITY GROUPS AND CLUBS

Are you interested in finding others with your interests?  Below are some of the other local organizations that welcome new members:

American Association of University Women – This national organization promotes equity for women in the workplace and in education.  In addition to supporting education through scholarships, they have book clubs, social events, monthly speakers, a Romancing the Coast monthly adventure, a hiking/walking group, and other interesting events.   See http://mpb-ca.aauw.net for more information. 

Monterey Civic Club – Founded in 1906, the club owns and meets monthly at the House of the Four Winds, located at 540 Calle Principal. This beautiful and historic adobe is believed to be the oldest women’s clubhouse in continuous use in the United States.  Members meet the first Tuesday of each month for lunch and a social program ($25), often with a speaker of importance to members.  Contact (831) 747-1072 for more information.

Gentrain Society is an organization for life-long learners.  They generally meet the first and third Wednesdays from 1:30-2:30 at the Monterey Peninsula College Lecture Forum #103.  Lectures are free and open to the public (except $3.00 parking fee).  Topics range from drama, history, and understanding civilizations and more.  Courses are also offered, along with trips organized for special events.

Native Daughters of the Golden West – founded in 1880s, for women born in California.  The Monterey Junipero Parlor No 141 meets at 6:30 pm in the Casa Serrano on the second Monday of each month.  An added benefit is that members can stay at the NDGW home designed by Julia Morgan on Baker Street in San Francisco.  For more information, call or text Jerilynn Crivello at 831-320-2080.

Kiwanis Club of Monterey –founded in 1926, helps support community projects, scholarships, and youth groups in our community. Learn more at http://www.kiwanisclubmonterey.org or by emailing factpath-kiwanis@yahoo.com.

Not Yet a Member of Old Town Neighborhood Association? Annual membership dues are just $20 for two adults in your household which covers the calendar year in which paid.  Your dues help support social events and technical costs of website, Zoom meetings, and newsletter. Members can be renters, owners or landlords of a property in Old Town.  Learn how to become a member on our website! If you have any questions, contact us!   All residents living above Pacific St between the creek near Madison and the Presidio/DLI are eligible.   Checks to OTNA can be mailed, along with your names, address, phone and email to our address below.   Old Town Neighborhood Association P O Box 724, Monterey, CA  93942

This information is being shared as a service by Old Town Neighborhood Association.  Information is presumed accurate, but is not guaranteed, and always subject to change.   Visit our website at oldtownmonterey.org.

Friday, December 12 and Saturday, December 13, 5-9 pm  Christmas in the Adobes – This is Monterey’s beautiful celebration of the adobes decorated for the holidays.  Follow the luminaria along the paths through old Monterey to envision life as it was in the early days of the city.  Docents dressed in period costume explain the history of each adobe.  Music and refreshments at some venues.  For more information and tickets, visit  www.mshpa.org/christmasintheadobes.   Tickets and map can be purchased at the Pacific House Museum store off Custom House Plaza and other locations.  Adults for one night pass $30; Children 17 and under are free.

Saturday, December 20, 11-2 pm – Iluminado Winter Art Market at the Monterey Museum of Art, 559 Pacific Street.  Shop original artwork, jewelry, décor, beverages, and pastries for sale at the museum.   In addition, the Monterey Museum of Art has FREE ADMISSION DURING THE MONTH OF DECEMBER!  Visit the interactive Iluminado exhibit for shimmering visual delights, on view through January 18.

Wednesday, December 31, 2025 – First Night Monterey.  Celebrate the end of the year at this annual family celebration throughout downtown.  Enjoy music and over 50 performances with entertainment starting at 3 pm  in the afternoon and continuing with a parade and festivities at several locations.  Although many outdoor events are free, tickets are required for several, and your purchase helps support this wonderful event.  More information and tickets at www.firstnightmonterey.org.

ANNOUNCEMENTS  

Christmas on the Wharf – Musical Groups perform weekends in December up until Dec 20.  See the schedule of all events at www.montereywharf.com.          

Visits with Santa on the Wharf – December Fridays 5-8, Saturdays 11-8, and Sundays 1-6 pm through December 21.  Santa’s hut will be next to the Crab House Restaurant.  Free Meets and Greets and photo opportunities with Santa and his elves.

A beautiful new mural depicting Monterey Bay and Cannery Row History has been produced by Chris Shake along the recreation trail behind Austino’s Restaurant at 851 Cannery Row.   The colorful mural by artist Renae McCollum, depickts John Steinbeck, Kalisa Moore, and the Western Flyer boat that John Steinbeck and Doc Ricketts to to the Sea of Cortez in 1940. 

Sand Bag Fill Station next to the Fire Station at 600 Pacific Street is now operational for the season. This is a self-serve station.  Sand and bags are provided.  Bring your own shovel.

Free Recycling Bins are available by asking at the Planning Office, main level of Colton Hall at 570 Pacific Street, or by emailing bristow@monterey.gov to arrange for a pick up.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is having their next training course on three consecutive Saturdays, February 7^th, 14^th, and 21^st, 2026, from 8-5.  The program instructs local citizens in a wide variety of rescue, search, emergency medical, preparedness, safety, team operations, basic fire control and community service skills. CERT members regularly respond

to assist local fire and police with storm impacts, searches for missing persons, fire scenes, evacuations and many other emergency situation CERT members become sworn Disaster Service Workers (DSW).  The free training occurs in downtown Monterey.  Attendance on all three days is mandatory to graduate.   As these classes often fill up way in advance, Email certmonterey@gmail.com with your name, resident address, email you most commonly use, your cell and home phone numbers.

The Monterey Airport Board New VOLUNTARY Flight Curfew is from midnight to 5 am!   The board voted to rescind the prior ordinances which had a curfew between 11 pm and 7 am, and had limitations to how low flights could come in.  

New Zoning for R-1 Properties in Monterey.  At the August 19, 2025 meeting, the City Council voted to adopt the SB9 requirements for lot splits allowing 2 units each, for a total of four, and went further to allow six units on a single lot when a unit is an affordable housing unit.  They did not want to defer until the lawsuit by other Charter cities (Monterey is a charter city) is settled on appeal.  In the original lawsuit, the court found that the state could not direct zoning in Charter cities.  The vote was 3-2 with the mayor, Councilman Gino Garcia, and Councilwoman Dr. Kim Barber approving (District 1, most of Old Town), and Councilman Ed Smith (District 2, most eastern part of Old Town) and Jean Rasch (a slim part of Old Town on Madison) opposing. 

Invitation to Wednesday and Saturday Barbecues at the American Legion.  At our Old Town Neighborhood Association Meeting on Wednesday, August 20, our speaker from the American Legion wanted to be sure that we, their neighbors, are always invited to attend the Wednesday Steak Barbecues (at $15, a bargain) and the Saturday Grills of Hot Dogs/ Hamburgers (under $6).  Soft drinks are reasonable and it’s a nice way to meet our veterans.

LOST AND FOUND: If you left your navy cotton jacket at the July picnic in Veterans Park, please reply to this bulletin.  

Rental Registry Compliance – All rental properties must be in compliance with the city rental registry ordinance, and be registered annually. 

The Monterey Public Library is now fine-free! 

Annual Residential Parking Passes are available to residents of Monterey and active military for $20, good for two hours at both East and West Downtown Garages, Cannery Row Garage and the Waterfront lot.  Bring proof of residency, vehicle registration and ID to Parking office, 340 Tyler Street in the East Garage.   See Monterey.org/parking for more information.

City of Monterey Accepting Applications for Boards, Committees, and Commissions.  For position descriptions and requirements, please go to Monterey.gov/bcc.

MIIS Student Housing Needed!  Do you have an extra bedroom in your house or a local rental?  Consider renting to a Middlebury Institute of International Studies (MIIS) student!  The housing crisis in Monterey is deeply affecting our student population with low inventory and high prices.  MIIS is reaching out to our community to form partnerships with local landlords and homeowners.  For more information, go to this link: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGb0hGd1Qk/V0hDlFvuILlZKtzRyIWIcQ/view?utm_content=DAGb0hGd1Qk&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=hba13c991dc.  Still have questions?  Contact the MIIS Landlord Coordinator Naomi Braswell at nbraswell@middlebury.edu or at (831) 647-4120.

Free Wharf Walks by Maritime Historian Tim Thomas the first Saturday of every month from 10am to noon.  Hear and experience a two hour cultural maritime history tour, with themes changing monthly.  Meet at the head of Old Fisherman’s Wharf near the pink Harbor House store. Free, but advance reservations are required and can be made at monterey.gov/library/events or by calling 831-646-3933.  This tour is recommended for ages 10 and up with a maximum group of 15 people.

The Presidio Museum of Monterey is open Saturdays and Sundays 10-4 pm – Learn the fascinating history of our Presidio, including the early indigenous settlers, the founding of the fort, the history during three wars, and the history of the Buffalo Soldiers. An interpretive walk with great views of the bay lead up to the Sloat Monument.  You can take a short cut from Van Buren over the creek bridge to reach it from Old Town.  Free.   Please consider volunteering as a docent for this great museum!

Free Public Tours of Ed Ricketts Pacific Biological Laboratories Second Saturdays, 10:00-11:00 and 11:30-12:30 pm, subject to availability. Modeled after famed ecologist Ed Ricketts, “Doc” was featured prominently in John Steinbeck’s novels about Cannery Row. The Lab at 800 Cannery Row was also where the idea of the Monterey Jazz Festival was born and welcomed such prominent figures as Louis Armstrong. Reserve in advance at monterey.gov/museums or by calling 831-646-5648. Visitors are also welcome to drop by without a reservation to self-tour this historic site from 12:00-4:00 pm on the second Saturday.

Casa Serano, the historic adobe at 412 Pacific Street, is now open for free visits on Saturday and Sunday 2-4 pm.  Docents can help you learn the interesting history of this adobe built in 1843, as you peruse the art and furnishings.

Old Town Neighborhood Association’s website is LIVE!  Visit oldtownmonterey.org for the latest on events, issues, and to find the Historic Homes self-guided walk featuring historic homes in our Old Town neighborhood.  Photos of the July 13 picnic are now posted on the social page of the website.

COMMUNITY GROUPS AND CLUBS

Are you interested in finding others with your interests?  Below are some of the other local organizations that welcome new members:

American Association of University Women – This national organization promotes equity for women in the workplace and in education.  In addition to supporting education through scholarships, they have book clubs, social events, monthly speakers, a Romancing the Coast monthly adventure, a hiking/walking group, and other interesting events.   See http://mpb-ca.aauw.net for more information. 

Monterey Civic Club – Founded in 1906, the club owns and meets monthly at the House of the Four Winds, located at 540 Calle Principal. This beautiful and historic adobe is believed to be the oldest women’s clubhouse in continuous use in the United States.  Members meet the first Tuesday of each month for lunch and a social program ($25), often with a speaker of importance to members.  Contact (831) 747-1072 for more information.

Gentrain Society is an organization for life-long learners.  They generally meet the first and third Wednesdays from 1:30-2:30 at the Monterey Peninsula College Lecture Forum #103.  Lectures are free and open to the public (except $3.00 parking fee).  Topics range from drama, history, and understanding civilizations and more.  Courses are also offered, along with trips organized for special events.

Native Daughters of the Golden West – founded in 1880s, for women born in California.  The Monterey Junipero Parlor No 141 meets at 6:30 pm in the Casa Serrano on the second Monday of each month.  An added benefit is that members can stay at the NDGW home designed by Julia Morgan on Baker Street in San Francisco.  For more information, call or text Jerilynn Crivello at 831-320-2080.

Kiwanis Club of Monterey –founded in 1926, helps support community projects, scholarships, and youth groups in our community. Learn more at http://www.kiwanisclubmonterey.org or by emailing factpath-kiwanis@yahoo.com.

Not Yet a Member of Old Town Neighborhood Association? Annual membership dues are just $20 for two adults in your household which covers the calendar year in which paid.  Your dues help support social events and technical costs of website, Zoom meetings, and newsletter. Members can be renters, owners or landlords of a property in Old Town.  Learn how to become a member on our website! If you have any questions, contact us!   All residents living above Pacific St between the creek near Madison and the Presidio/DLI are eligible.   Checks to OTNA can be mailed, along with your names, address, phone and email to our address below.   Old Town Neighborhood Association P O Box 724, Monterey, CA  93942

This information is being shared as a service by Old Town Neighborhood Association.  Information is presumed accurate, but is not guaranteed, and always subject to change.   Visit our website at oldtownmonterey.org.

Saturday, November 15, 10 am – Kim Talks at East Village Café, corner of Tyler and Pearl.  Come to chat with Dr. Kim Barber, councilwoman, about your concerns or issues.

Saturdday, November 15, 10-3 pm – Holiday Craft Faire with 30 artisan vendors at the Elks Lodge, 150-160 Mar Vista Drive, Monterey.

Friday, November 21, 6 pm -Reception for Youth Arts Collective.  472 Calle Principal.

Friday, November 21 – Ice Skating by the Bay opens at Custom House Plaza and continues through January 4.

Friday, November 28, 5:45 pm – Cannery Row Tree Lighting in the Steinbeck Plaza.  Festivities for the family begins at 2 pm with caroling and balloon artists.  Tree lighting is at 5:45, with visits with Santa from 6-9 pm.

Friday, November 28, 11:30-5 pm Slow Fiber Holiday Craft Bazaar featuring locally made fiber arts, accessories, and jewelry by 13 makers.  517A Hartnell near the wooden walkway to Trader Joes.

Saturday, November 29 – Small Business Saturday.  Support our Monterey merchants!

Saturday, November 29, 12-4 pm- Youth Arts Collective Winter Show 472 Calle Principal.

Thursday, December 4, 2025 6-8 pm – Holiday Parade of Lights on Lighthouse Avenue, Pacific Grove.  Free.

Friday, December 5, 5-6 pm Traditional Holiday Tree Lighting at the Colton Hall Lawn.  Enjoy cookies, cider, live music and caroling, culminating with the lighting of the tree.  Free.

Sunday, December 7, 5:15-7 pm Brighten the Harbor Boat Parade. The parade of lighted boats will pass by Fisherman’s Wharf at 5:30, go to Cannery Row and return.  If unfavorable conditions, it will be postponed until Dec 14.  You can find great viewing from restaurants on Cannery Row!  Free.

Tuesday, December 9, 5-9 pm Holiday at the Inns of Pacific Grove.  $30.  Contact www.pacificgrove.org.

Friday, December 12 and Saturday, December 13, 5-9 pm  Christmas in the Adobes – Our beautiful celebration of the adobes decorated for the holidays.  Follow the luminaria along the paths through old Monterey to envision life as it was in the early days of the city.  Docents dressed in period costume explain the history of the adobe.  Music and refreshments at some venues.  For more information and tickets, visit  www.mshpa.org/christmasintheadobes.   Adults for one night pass $30; Children 17 and under are free.

Wednesday, December 31, 2025 – First Night Monterey.  Celebrate the end of the year at this annual family celebration throughout downtown.  Enjoy music and over 50 performances with entertainment starting at 3 pm  in the afternoon and continuing with a parade and festivities at several locations.  Although many outdoor events are free, tickets are required for several, and your purchase helps support this wonderful event.  More information and tickets at www.firstnightmonterey.org.

ANNOUNCEMENTS  

Christmas on the Wharf – Musical Groups perform weekends in December up until Dec 20.  See the schedule of all events at www.montereywharf.com.          

Visits with Santa on the Wharf – December Fridays 5-8, Saturdays 11-8, and Sundays 1-6 pm through December 21.  Santa’s hut will be next to the Crab House Restaurant.  Free Meets and Greets and photo opportunities with Santa and his elves.

A beautiful new mural depicting Monterey Bay and Cannery Row History has been produced by Chris Shake along the recreation trail behind Austino’s Restaurant at 851 Cannery Row.   The colorful mural by artist Renae McCollum, depickts John Steinbeck, Kalisa Moore, and the Western Flyer boat that John Steinbeck and Doc Ricketts to to the Sea of Cortez in 1940. 

Sand Bag Fill Station next to the Fire Station at 600 Pacific Street is now operational for the season. This is a self-serve station.  Sand and bags are provided.  Bring your own shovel.

Free Recycling Bins are available by asking at the Planning Office, main level of Colton Hall at 570 Pacific Street, or by emailing bristow@monterey.gov to arrange for a pick up.

Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) is having their next training course on three consecutive Saturdays, February 7^th, 14^th, and 21^st, 2026, from 8-5.  The program instructs local citizens in a wide variety of rescue, search, emergency medical, preparedness, safety, team operations, basic fire control and community service skills. CERT members regularly respond

to assist local fire and police with storm impacts, searches for missing persons, fire scenes, evacuations and many other emergency situation CERT members become sworn Disaster Service Workers (DSW).  The free training occurs in downtown Monterey.  Attendance on all three days is mandatory to graduate.   As these classes often fill up way in advance, Email certmonterey@gmail.com with your name, resident address, email you most commonly use, your cell and home phone numbers.

The Monterey Airport Board New VOLUNTARY Flight Curfew is from midnight to 5 am!   The board voted to rescind the prior ordinances which had a curfew between 11 pm and 7 am, and had limitations to how low flights could come in.  

New Zoning for R-1 Properties in Monterey.  At the August 19, 2025 meeting, the City Council voted to adopt the SB9 requirements for lot splits allowing 2 units each, for a total of four, and went further to allow six units on a single lot when a unit is an affordable housing unit.  They did not want to defer until the lawsuit by other Charter cities (Monterey is a charter city) is settled on appeal.  In the original lawsuit, the court found that the state could not direct zoning in Charter cities.  The vote was 3-2 with the mayor, Councilman Gino Garcia, and Councilwoman Dr. Kim Barber approving (District 1, most of Old Town), and Councilman Ed Smith (District 2, most eastern part of Old Town) and Jean Rasch (a slim part of Old Town on Madison) opposing. 

Invitation to Wednesday and Saturday Barbecues at the American Legion.  At our Old Town Neighborhood Association Meeting on Wednesday, August 20, our speaker from the American Legion wanted to be sure that we, their neighbors, are always invited to attend the Wednesday Steak Barbecues (at $15, a bargain) and the Saturday Grills of Hot Dogs/ Hamburgers (under $6).  Soft drinks are reasonable and it’s a nice way to meet our veterans.

LOST AND FOUND: If you left your navy cotton jacket at the July picnic in Veterans Park, please reply to this bulletin.  

Rental Registry Compliance – All rental properties must be in compliance with the city rental registry ordinance, and be registered annually. 

The Monterey Public Library is now fine-free! 

Annual Residential Parking Passes are available to residents of Monterey and active military for $20, good for two hours at both East and West Downtown Garages, Cannery Row Garage and the Waterfront lot.  Bring proof of residency, vehicle registration and ID to Parking office, 340 Tyler Street in the East Garage.   See Monterey.org/parking for more information.

City of Monterey Accepting Applications for Boards, Committees, and Commissions.  For position descriptions and requirements, please go to Monterey.gov/bcc.

MIIS Student Housing Needed!  Do you have an extra bedroom in your house or a local rental?  Consider renting to a Middlebury Institute of International Studies (MIIS) student!  The housing crisis in Monterey is deeply affecting our student population with low inventory and high prices.  MIIS is reaching out to our community to form partnerships with local landlords and homeowners.  For more information, go to this link: https://www.canva.com/design/DAGb0hGd1Qk/V0hDlFvuILlZKtzRyIWIcQ/view?utm_content=DAGb0hGd1Qk&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=uniquelinks&utlId=hba13c991dc.  Still have questions?  Contact the MIIS Landlord Coordinator Naomi Braswell at nbraswell@middlebury.edu or at (831) 647-4120.

Free Wharf Walks by Maritime Historian Tim Thomas the first Saturday of every month from 10am to noon.  Hear and experience a two hour cultural maritime history tour, with themes changing monthly.  Meet at the head of Old Fisherman’s Wharf near the pink Harbor House store. Free, but advance reservations are required and can be made at monterey.gov/library/events or by calling 831-646-3933.  This tour is recommended for ages 10 and up with a maximum group of 15 people.

The Presidio Museum of Monterey is open Saturdays and Sundays 10-4 pm – Learn the fascinating history of our Presidio, including the early indigenous settlers, the founding of the fort, the history during three wars, and the history of the Buffalo Soldiers. An interpretive walk with great views of the bay lead up to the Sloat Monument.  You can take a short cut from Van Buren over the creek bridge to reach it from Old Town.  Free.   Please consider volunteering as a docent for this great museum!

Free Public Tours of Ed Ricketts Pacific Biological Laboratories Second Saturdays, 10:00-11:00 and 11:30-12:30 pm, subject to availability. Modeled after famed ecologist Ed Ricketts, “Doc” was featured prominently in John Steinbeck’s novels about Cannery Row. The Lab at 800 Cannery Row was also where the idea of the Monterey Jazz Festival was born and welcomed such prominent figures as Louis Armstrong. Reserve in advance at monterey.gov/museums or by calling 831-646-5648. Visitors are also welcome to drop by without a reservation to self-tour this historic site from 12:00-4:00 pm on the second Saturday.

Casa Serano, the historic adobe at 412 Pacific Street, is now open for free visits on Saturday and Sunday 2-4 pm.  Docents can help you learn the interesting history of this adobe built in 1843, as you peruse the art and furnishings.

Old Town Neighborhood Association’s website is LIVE!  Visit oldtownmonterey.org for the latest on events, issues, and to find the Historic Homes self-guided walk featuring historic homes in our Old Town neighborhood.  Photos of the July 13 picnic are now posted on the social page of the website.

COMMUNITY GROUPS AND CLUBS

Are you interested in finding others with your interests?  Below are some of the other local organizations that welcome new members:

American Association of University Women – This national organization promotes equity for women in the workplace and in education.  In addition to supporting education through scholarships, they have book clubs, social events, monthly speakers, a Romancing the Coast monthly adventure, a hiking/walking group, and other interesting events.   See http://mpb-ca.aauw.net for more information. 

Monterey Civic Club – Founded in 1906, the club owns and meets monthly at the House of the Four Winds, located at 540 Calle Principal. This beautiful and historic adobe is believed to be the oldest women’s clubhouse in continuous use in the United States.  Members meet the first Tuesday of each month for lunch and a social program ($25), often with a speaker of importance to members.  Contact (831) 747-1072 for more information.

Gentrain Society is an organization for life-long learners.  They generally meet the first and third Wednesdays from 1:30-2:30 at the Monterey Peninsula College Lecture Forum #103.  Lectures are free and open to the public (except $3.00 parking fee).  Topics range from drama, history, and understanding civilizations and more.  Courses are also offered, along with trips organized for special events.

Native Daughters of the Golden West – founded in 1880s, for women born in California.  The Monterey Junipero Parlor No 141 meets at 6:30 pm in the Casa Serrano on the second Monday of each month.  An added benefit is that members can stay at the NDGW home designed by Julia Morgan on Baker Street in San Francisco.  For more information, call or text Jerilynn Crivello at 831-320-2080.

Kiwanis Club of Monterey –founded in 1926, helps support community projects, scholarships, and youth groups in our community. Learn more at http://www.kiwanisclubmonterey.org or by emailing factpath-kiwanis@yahoo.com.

Not Yet a Member of Old Town Neighborhood Association? Annual membership dues are just $20 for two adults in your household which covers the calendar year in which paid.  Your dues help support social events and technical costs of website, Zoom meetings, and newsletter. Members can be renters, owners or landlords of a property in Old Town.  Learn how to become a member on our website! If you have any questions, contact us!   All residents living above Pacific St between the creek near Madison and the Presidio/DLI are eligible.   Checks to OTNA can be mailed, along with your names, address, phone and email to our address below.   Old Town Neighborhood Association P O Box 724, Monterey, CA  93942

This information is being shared as a service by Old Town Neighborhood Association.  Information is presumed accurate, but is not guaranteed, and always subject to change.   Visit our website at oldtownmonterey.org.