Well, they say no press is bad press, but really, this article by our friend Mark Anderson is unfortunate, to say the least.

The Big Sur Food and Wine Festival is an elegant, professional and creative community event that in the past few years has raised $65,000 for services that support this ruggedly beautiful unincorporated area. It directly benefits local schools, the volunteer fire brigade and the health center -- and funds youth scholarships in the hospitality field.

To begin this piece with a nudge, nudge, wink, wink attitude about a controlled substance is not reflective or respectful of this fine event nor the sponsors, winemakers, chefs, and local businesses that participate.

This Big Sur Food and Wine Festival represents the love and work of a highly dedicated and hard-working team of local community-minded volunteers. They are all shocked by the tone and content of this piece.

We hope the Coast Weekly apologizes.