Cheers to Osio


The Osio is as much a part of Monterey as the wharf or Cannery Row – it’s an institution (“Local Spin,” Oct. 25-31). I have never been there that the staff hasn’t made me smile, and since the cafe re-opened as Lumiere it has really brightened the place up. Plus the food is to die for. This theater is like a cult classic film, it’s not for everyone, and that’s what makes it special. - TheDiscountDame | via Web


Burial Grounds


You should learn all the facts before you publish this article (“Central Coast Veterans’ Cemetery is likely to be funded without Monterey Downs,” Oct. 25-31). It is only partially true. The endowment parcel is what we are trying to use to fund the maintenance fund required by the state before they will submit the application to the VA to construct the cemetery. That is only part of the money needed. There are other phases of the project which will require another $1 million to $2 million and we are pursuing all manner of sources so that we can proceed to completion in a timely manner. Be careful when you incite. - Sid | via Web


Holman Holdouts


Of course we are disappointed about the endorsement of Yes on Measure F, but it is even more disappointing that the No on Measure F side was not really represented in your paper (“Weekly says Yes on Measure F,” Oct. 11-17). We are not a fringe group but people concerned about their town, with four former Planning Commission chairs (Lisa Bennett, Dan Davis, Mark Travaille and Linda Smith Bailey) and resident advocate Sally Aberg signing the arguments against Measure F in the ballot pamphlet. Any of them could have been or could still be asked to be interviewed. The main point for voting no on F is not the lack of process in following correct channels, but that the zoning change would allow too massive a structure. Once zoned to 75 feet, 100 percent coverage, there is not adequate control through city review because it can be appealed and overturned at each level, with the owner/developer argument that this is what the zoning is in the ordinance.


We are not against a hotel. The Holman Block is already zoned for a hotel at 40 feet 75 percent coverage or 30 feet 90 percent coverage, with allowable greater density of guest units than any other parcel in the city. I assume Mr. Leddy knows his advantage over other local hoteliers. He argues that he needs 211 rooms in order to have a full-service luxury hotel and this much massing, but could that possibly be for increased profit and ability to sell the hotel to a corporate entity as the Hilton or Marriott? The La Playa Hotel in Carmel claims to be a full-service luxury hotel and has 75 guest rooms. Of course a developer has the right to want to do a project the way they want to do it, but it does not mean the town has to give up its rights in fighting what they believe is just too big.


Giving voters a whole view helps to end up with at least better informed voting on any issue. - Janet Cohen | Pacific Grove


Independent Opinions


(Independent Marketplace in Sand City to experiment with $5 cover charge; will you still be attending despite the entrance fee?” posted Oct. 25.)


Pay money to spend money? Swell marketing concept. You don’t come off greedy at all. - Anna Masteller | via Facebook


No. I would rather give that $20 (four in my family) to a vendor inside. - Camilla Mann | via Facebook


I realize that it’s tough when you start a new business. But part of that toughness is knowing that you might not break even for a while. - Carolyn Swanson | via Facebook


I had never even heard of this and I am always searching for things to do. I am getting tired of places that charge entry fees on top of more fees. I will not be going to this event even though it sounds like it is right up my alley. - Stine Guttery Lewentowicz | via Facebook


That’s sad to hear. I like to pop in for a super quick look around and grab a bite to eat for dinner, it wouldn’t be worth paying $5 just to do that. - Kim Barbarian-Librarian Smith


No, I won’t. I think they should encourage donations for entry (non specified) and let people give what they want. Some may give more, some less, but at least you won’t sway people away as does the concept of a required entry fee. I understand the need to cover costs of the event but I think charging an entrance fee will make the event more exclusive and less inclusive, and is against the spirit of the independent marketplace as a community builder. - Anita Joshi | via Facebook 


And a Word From the Independent


Thanks to all for your feedback. This is not a stunt, or a marketing ploy. It comes from the heart. We need your ideas and support. This gathering has eclipsed our wildest expectations. The emotional response we’ve had over the past seven months has been humbling and truly inspiring. To honor that, here are a few answers to your questions: The outdoor food court will remain free. A $5 cover gets you five hours of live music, movie screenings, child care/activities, fire dancing, hula hooping, storytelling and the yummy womb of goodness that occurs inside. The Marketplace is not a farmers market, but if you’re to define us, consider us your physical social network, an affordable food festival, a cheap night out on the town, an alternative to Netflix.


We agree! Free is awesome. We made the event free for as long as we could, but continuing to spend thousands of dollars with no end in sight just isn’t sustainable. Your $5 represents less than half of our cost to produce the event. The Marketplace was never intended to be profitable; in fact, no markets or festivals break even without grants, subsidy, corporate sponsors and/or paid admission. Over the past seven months we’ve cut costs, recruited volunteers and increased vendor fees so that we can give the most bang for the buck. A change in venue isn’t the answer. Use of the building, as well as staff time, has always and will continue to be donated. Vendor fees aren’t the answer. Community spending would have to average $75 per person (5x the monthly average) for vendor fees to break us even.


We’ve planned to apply for nonprofit status, but wanted to first prove that there is a need for this type of gathering. What started as “an experiment in food, drink, art and culture” has become a celebration of togetherness and of common values. We are green, we are hand-made, we are socially conscious, we are local, we are sincere, we are optimistic… and with your support we will move toward our goal of being self reliant. - The Independent Marketplace | via Facebook