German Sheppard found in Big Sur

Hi Kate We found a German Shepherd on Highway 1 and was told to reach out to you. The dog was running up and down the highway the last 2-3 days and we figured we would take her to the vet and check if she was chipped. Unfortunately no Chip was found, and we were wondering if there is anyway you could help us find the owner. 
Dogs info: 9-11 months Female had collar but no tag (will ask person who claims ownership the color to verify) 

Thank you so much and hope this finds you well.
Best,Amir 949-302-3290

Note: this dog was found near Gorda. Here is the photo of her with their other dog.

COVID-19 Community Meeting Notes

COVID-19 Community response group meeting notes:

                                          4/20/20

20th Congressional District, Cal State Parks, US Forest Service, Big Sur Chamber of Commerce, Big Sur Health Center, Big Sur Fire, Big Sur CERT, Esalen and the Community Association of Big Sur met once again to continue coordinated efforts to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. Each organization provided an update on their current operations and preparations for continuing to shelter in place. 

It is important to note that as of this moment, there continues to be no known cases of COVID-19 in the Big Sur planning area. 

Big Sur Health Center:

Executive Director Sharen Carey is following the development and availability of antibody testing around the country and how that testing may play out locally. In response to a question, Sharen confirmed that having COVID-19 antibodies may not confer automatic immunity to the virus. Sharen Carey reports that a majority of patient visits still occur by telephone.  Those that need to physically be present to be evaluated or receive care at the Health Center must observe social distancing protocols and hygiene measures posted in English and Spanish at the entry. A plexi-glass screen has been installed at the reception desk, refining the effort to reduce the transmission of COVID-19.  Sharen wants people to know if you believe you have COVID-19 symptoms (Fever, difficulty breathing) to first call the HC at, (831-667-2580).  The Medical Staff will ask a series of questions that may lead to coming to the Health Center for a COVID-19 Test, utilizing the interview tent set up in front of the building, to evaluate your condition. Currently, results are coming back within 48 hours.

The Information below has been provided by Sharen and is still pertinent and worth reposting:

There is a significant amount of disinformation regarding factors affecting the severity of sickness in individuals. • Contrary to anecdotal observations coming from France, there is no clinical support for the contention that Ibuprofen use worsens outcomes for those testing positive for COVID-19.• No studies support the contention that anti-malarial drugs are helpful in treating COVID-19.• Currently, there are no drugs or treatments to prevent transmission of the COVID-19 beyond self-isolation, social distancing and meticulous disinfection of surfaces that others use.  • Mask use in public is now recommended and a short video to make your own is below. 
https://wpde.com/news/nation-world/video-us-surgeon-general-makes-a-face-mask-in-a-few-easy-steps• Best mask making material instructional video is below:
https://www.nytimes.com/article/coronavirus-homemade-mask-material-DIY-face-mask-ppe.html• Bottom line defense against contracting the virus: Assume it is in Big Sur and take every precaution recommended above.

Big Sur Fire:

Matt Harris reports:• BSF worked in cooperation with State Park and MOCO Sheriff SAR Team to conduct a cliff rescue at JP Burns.  The individual was successfully saved and then cited for violating the SIP order.• Expressed thanks for the Forest Order to close the dispersed camping areas.• Emergency Operations continue out of the Firehouse.• Burn season will conclude on April 30th.

Big Sur Chamber of Commerce:

Kirk Gafill reports:• The Chamber is working with the Monterey County Hospitality Association to identify and develop conditions for reopening business.  • A big focus is in making sure the hospitality industry and the State and County Health Departments are in alignment on protocols and best practices for opening and operating in a “post COVID-19” business environment.• Is continuing to use the Chamber email distribution list to push out relevant informational resources to assist employees and employers.

Community Emergency Response Team:

Martha Karstens reports:• That the residents SIP survey is still waiting on Clear Ridge and South Coast numbers.

Esalen Institute:

Lacy Shannon reports:• Esalen will now remain closed through June 7th.• The Institute continues to follow the SIP guidance provided by Governor   Newsom and looks to the recommendations of other officials.

USFS:

LPNF District Ranger Tim Short reports:• The Monterey District is working through implementation of the Forest Order closing the roads, trails and dispersed camping areas.• Order is being amended to include Plaskett Ridge and the North Coast Ridge Road.• In response to a request from Butch, USFS will work to coordinate lifting the Forest Order in concert with easing of the State and Local SIP orders. The easing of Local and State SIP restrictions will influence the reopening of the State Parks in Big Sur. This coordination between Agencies is key to a smooth transition toward normal operations.

Ca. State Parks:

Superintendent Brent Marshall reports:• Hard closure of all State Parks was successful last weekend. 10 citations issued for violating the SIP order.• Parks will again be closed next weekend and then re-evaluated.• Parks sending consistent social media and traditional media messaging regarding closure.• Thanked Big Sur Fire and Sheriff’s Search and Rescue for mutual aid on the non-injury cliff rescue at JP Burns.• Coordinating with Monterey County RMA daily on when the local SIP order will be lifted.• Hiring Park Aides in anticipation of a return to normal occupancy and usage of the local State Parks.

Community Association of Big Sur:

Butch Kronlund:• Expressed the community’s gratitude for the follow through on implementing the Forest Order closing the dispersed camping areas on the south coast of Big Sur.  He specifically singled out Tim Short, Kevin Elliott, Jimmy Panetta and Mary Adams for their work on the issue.• Went on to make the point that there must be coordination of closure policy between the State Parks and the Forest Service in order to reduce confusion on the part of the public and for Law Enforcement to be able to function without tripping over jurisdictional boundary.• That the Monterey District of the LPNF needs more funding earmarked for management and enforcement.• Reports that by working with local business owners and HR Departments, CABS has identified a significant number of financially vulnerable members of the Big Sur community. The first tranche of financial assistance, provided by a grant from the Community Foundation for Monterey County, will be going to these folks later this week.• A survey, polling community members on their interest in Broad Band internet availability in Big Sur, was recently distributed via email to the CABS server list. Results not yet in. • In light of the delay inherent with the national state of emergency created by COVID-19, Monterey County, MCCVB, Beyond Green Travel and CABS have amended the completion date for the Big Sur Destination Stewardship Plan for up to 3 months. Target date for completion is now July 31, 2020.

20th Congressional District:

Congressman Jimmy Panetta reporting this week’s focus has been on:• The $2.2 Trillion CARES Act including the $347 Billion Payroll Protection Plan component.• Small businesses had difficulty applying, with 1.6 million applicants approved before the money in that program ran out.• Congress to vote Tuesday to extend the PPP program with an additional $310 Billion that will include significant funding for small lenders, SBA disaster loans, Hospitals and $25 Billion for COVID-19 testing.• Congressman Panetta believes there will be additional iterations of the “CARES Act” going forward.  These next Bills may address hazard pay for essential workers.• On the subject of the Forest closure, the Congressman acknowledged it as a short-term remedy for a situation brought about by a lack of enforcement tools. That he will push for more resources to manage the federal lands.• In response to a question from Dick Ravich, Congressman Panetta is working to get $3 Billion of “CARES Act 2” funds into the hands of Food Banks.• Jimmy Panetta wrapped up his comments by lauding the leadership of our country’s Governors and by stating that our nation’s response to the global pandemic is: o Nationally mandated.o State activated.o Locally implemented.

Closing down nature…

Here is my most recent article for Voices of Monterey Bay:

Like many popular remote communities that serve as gateways to wilderness areas, Big Sur residents feel the strain of people who need a natural experience after being cooped up in their homes during the pandemic.

So the decision last week by the U.S. Forest Service to shut down trails and roads in the Los Padres National Park stirred up an outcry on social media.

The order to shut it down came April 16 and is set to expire on June 1 unless reissued. On April 17, the USFS, the local California Highway Patrol and a sheriff’s deputy put out signs, cones and closure notices for the trailheads and roads.

Only hours after putting up the sign and cones at the bottom of Willow Creek, someone came along and tossed all of them into the poison oak, presumably to make retrieval more difficult.

The next day law enforcement was busy on all the roads and trailheads, ticketing for violation of the forest closure order. According to the federal code, violations of the order are punishable by fines of up to $5,000 per person (or $10,000 for an organization) and/or imprisonment for up to six months.

To read the rest of the article, see: https://voicesofmontereybay.org/2020/04/21/closing-down-nature/

Monterey District of the Los Padres Forest is closed until June 1st

In response to the shelter in place orders from both the State and the County in an effort to control the spread of the COVID-19, Monterey Ranger District of the Los Padres National Forest will be closing all roads, day use areas, all trailheads and trails in this district effective tomorrow.

Big Sur COVID-19 meeting

COVID-19 Community response group meeting notes: 4/13/20

Supervisor District 5, Cal State Parks, US Forest Service, Big Sur Chamber of Commerce, Big Sur Health Center, Big Sur Fire, Big Sur CERT, Esalen and the Community Association of Big Sur met once again to continue coordinated efforts to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. Each organization provided an update on their current operations and preparations for continuing to shelter in place. 

It is important to note that as of this moment, there continues to be no known cases of COVID-19 in the Big Sur planning area. 

Big Sur Health Center:

Sharen Carey reports that a majority of patient visits still occur by telephone.  Those that need to physically be present to be evaluated or receive care at the Health Center must observe social distancing protocols and hygiene measures posted in English and Spanish at the entry. A plexi-glass screen has been installed at the reception desk, refining the effort to reduce the transmission of COVID-19.  Sharen wants people to know if you believe you have COVID-19 symptoms (Fever, difficulty breathing) to first call the HC at, (831-667-2580).  The Medical Staff will ask a series of questions that may lead to coming to the Health Center for a COVID-19 Test, utilizing the interview tent set up in front of the building, to evaluate your condition. Currently, results are coming back within 48 hours.

The Information below was provided last week by Sharen and is still pertinent and worth reposting:

There is a significant amount of disinformation regarding factors affecting the severity of sickness in individuals. • Contrary to anecdotal observations coming from France, there is no clinical support for the contention that Ibuprofen use worsens outcomes for those testing positive for COVID-19.• No studies support the contention that anti-malarial drugs are helpful in treating COVID-19.• Currently, there are no drugs or treatments to prevent transmission of the COVID-19 beyond self-isolation, social distancing and meticulous disinfection of surfaces that others use.  • Mask use in public is now recommended and a short video to make your own is below. 
https://wpde.com/news/nation-world/video-us-surgeon-general-makes-a-face-mask-in-a-few-easy-steps• Best mask making material instructional video is below:
https://www.nytimes.com/article/coronavirus-homemade-mask-material-DIY-face-mask-ppe.html• Bottom line defense against contracting the virus: Assume it is in Big Sur and take every precaution recommended above.

Big Sur Fire:

Matt Harris reports:• Call volume remains low, with most call outs on the South Coast.• Emergency Operations continue out of the Firehouse.• Burn season will conclude on April 30th.

Big Sur Chamber of Commerce:

Kirk Gafill reports:• Is continuing to use the Chamber email distribution list to push out relevant informational resources to assist employees and employers.• Business community is anxious to participate in planning the process for a return to commerce. • Proactive engagement with government officials and local and state Health Depts. Is critical to ensuring a smooth transition out of the strict SIP to opening up society in some fashion. This engagement will be crucial in order to insure the health and safety of workers, guests and the community at large.• Happy to report that 2 local businesses have already been approved for receiving Federal Payroll Protection Planfunding from area Banks. (2 months payroll)

Community Emergency Response Team:

Martha Karstens reports:• That the residents SIP survey is wrapping up.

Esalen Institute:

Lacy Shannon reports:• Esalen still closed until May 10th and potentially longer. Esalen will look to public health officials and guidelines as it considers re-opening timelines.

USFS:

LPNF District Ranger Tim Short reports:• In an effort to address COVID-19 concerns, LPNF leadership is working through channels to enact a closure of the dispersed camping areas and access points of the Forest in the Monterey District. Approval process requires sign off from Regional and Washington based Agency decision makers. Office of General Counsel fine tuning the Forest Order closing these areas.• Forest Supervisor Kevin Elliott, Monterey County Supervisor Adams and Congressman Panetta in support of the closure.• Despite the closure of Sand Dollar day use area, USFS working on bringing in a dumpster to dispose of trash illegally dumped.• USFS working to establish Fire Fighting protocols in context with COVID-19 considerations.

Yuri Anderson, for Supervisor Adams, reports:• Working with County Public Works to support the USFS potential closure of the Trails and dispersed camping in the Monterey District of the LPNF.• Working to address the issue of short-term rentals in relation to the SIP order.

Ca. State Parks:

Superintendent Brent Marshall reports:• In alignment with both the Governors SIP order and the SIP order issued by Monterey County, CSP has expanded the existing closure of campgrounds to include all Day Use areas and parking areas in Big Sur area State Parks.• These closures to be maintained and enforced for at least the next 2 weeks with opening dependent of guidance from public health officials.• Parks working on messaging the closures both inside and outside of Monterey County.• Parks personnel have enough PPE for 3 weeks.  

Monterey County Sheriff:

Deputy Jesse Villasenor reports:• Closure of State Parks is consistent with the Local and State SIP order making enforcement somewhat easier to implement. • Primary hot spot for road-side camping has been the South Coast.• Jesse has been citing people for Trespassing and illegal camping in context with the SIP order. The Sheriffs Department is conducting County wide patrol at normal strength level.

Community Association of Big Sur:

Butch Kronlund reports:• That CABS is engaged in ongoing efforts to establish the scope of financial need for the most vulnerable members of the Big Sur community. That effort includes polling business owners on their plans to apply for Federal SBA loans and Payroll Protection Plan funding administered by local banks. So far, it appears that there is a role for CABS to play in deploying funds to those in most need and unable to apply for unemployment benefits.• CABS has applied for and received some grant funding from the Community Foundation for Monterey County and is also actively fundraising to support the least able to weather the financial stress brought about by lack of employment.• CABS has developed a needs assessment system reliant on working with each business’s HR Department.• CABS is pleased to report that Forest Supervisor Kevin Elliott has requested that the dispersed camping and backcountry trail heads in the Monterey District of the Los Padres National Forest be closed, consistent with state and local SIP guidance. Final approval pending Regional, Washington, and Office of General Counsel legal approval. Many thanks to LPN Forest Supervisor Elliott, District Ranger Short as well as support from Supervisor Adamsand Congressman Panetta in making this pivot.• In light of the delay inherent with the national state of emergency created by COVID-19, Monterey County, MCCVB, Beyond Green Travel and CABS have amended the completion date for the Big Sur Destination Stewardship Plan for up to 3 months. Target date for completion is now July 31, 2020.

Easter, 2012 revisited

Happy Easter! May we be able to celebrate with friends again next year. Also, note the meditation below:

Many of us in the Big Sur community are asking you to join on Sunday at 3PM. Will you?

“We invite you to join the Big Sur community in silent meditation to send out prayers of health, healing, and transformation across the planet, and keeping our Beloved Big Sur safe and pristine. As we can enhance our own well being, spiritually, psychologically, and physically through meditation, doing this together can create a synergistic effect for healing in our community and the world.

In whatever way is meaningful to you, send energies of love, healing, health, compassion, unity, joy, acceptance and any other creative inspirations outward and connect with the other prayers abounding.

We have the power to love as a way of life, and to unite as a community at this time of crisis, and let’s use that power now, for renewal, together.

At 3 PM on this Sunday, April 12, and every Sunday at 3 PM until this crisis passes, let’s join together in this healing meditation. Be well and God Bless.”

And so mote it be…

State Parks Closures

From our friends at California State Parks

For Immediate Release: April 10, 2020

Contact: Newsroom@parks.ca.gov

State Parks Advises Californians to Stay Home and Save Lives for this Weekend’s Traditions
It is Not Safe to Congregate at Parks and Compromise Physical Distancing

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — In preparation for one of the busiest weekends in spring, California State Parks is advising the public to stay home and save lives during the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead of visiting parks and beaches, the department encourages all Californians who celebrate Passover and Easter to do so safely at home or join loved ones virtually. More than ever this weekend, staying home is critical to the safety of individuals, families, communities and all who take care of parks during this pandemic.

For more than 150 years, state parks have served as safe places for people to celebrate traditions. Unfortunately, during these trying times of COVID-19, many state parks and beaches have experienced visitation surges that make it impossible for the public to implement physical distancing of 6 feet from others. As a result, a number of parks and beaches have been temporarily closed to the public until further notice and others are temporarily closing for the spring traditions.

Here are the latest temporary full closures:

Monterey County (Effective sunset April 10 until further notice)
• Andrew Molera State Park (SP)
• Garrapata SP
• Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP
• Pfeiffer Big Sur SP
• Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Santa Cruz County (Effective April 8 – April 15; Longer if deemed necessary)
• Big Basin Redwoods SP
• Castle Rock SP
• Forest of Nisene Marks SP
• Henry Cowell Redwoods SP
• Lighthouse Field State Beach (SB)
• Manresa SB
• Natural Bridges SB
• New Brighton SB
• Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park
• Seacliff SB
• Sunset SB
• Twin Lakes SB
• Wilder Ranch SP
Safety measures implemented (to date)

To date, State Parks has temporarily closed some parks fully, meaning all vehicular access, trails and restrooms within these parks are closed. It also has closed vehicular access at all parks, including for off-highway vehicles and recreational boats; closed all campgrounds, museums and visitor centers; and cancelled all events. Some parks with vehicular closures remain open for locals provided they practice safe, physical distancing of 6 feet or more and are visiting parks near their primary residences. Road trips to destination parks and beaches are strongly discouraged at this time.

Continuous monitoring

As California continues to issue guidance on preparing and protecting Californians from COVID-19, State Parks is monitoring the situation closely and is following guidance provided by the Governor’s Office via the California Department of Public Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services.

The department is also working closely with local county and public health officials, and assessing park operations on a daily basis to provide access to healthy outdoor options while emphasizing the need for safe, physical distancing. State Parks understands that local agencies each have unique operational considerations and strategies. As such, the department is partnering with locals to align park operations and help the public understand and comply with directives from local public health authorities.

State Parks has developed a one-stop resource center – www.parks.ca.gov/FlattenTheCurve — to find park safety and closure information, and messaging and graphics from the “Flatten the COVID-19 Curve at Parks” social media awareness campaign. Please check this webpage regularly, as it will be updated with new information as it becomes available.

California State Parks is urging everyone to stay home, save lives.