Publisher's Note
Musings from Carmel Magazine Publisher Steve Snider
Weathering the Storm
I'm ready for the sunshine.
After what seems like the rainiest
spring in years, I say enough
already. Bring on the heat. The
past few months have brought
us some serious Mother
Nature and globally speaking, true destruction from earthquakes,
floods and most recently the Iceland volcanic activity. My heart goes
out to all with family or loved ones affected.
Throughout this constant turmoil with the unstable economy and
natural disasters, two things really stand out for me: the resilience of
people and the core values most of us possess to want to help each
other in times of need. Take Erik Pilegaard, a local Carmel man and
Pilatus aircraft owner who flew missions into Haiti delivering doctors
and medical supplies in order to provide assistance after the devastating
earthquake in January. He used his own time, money and
resources to help, as did many others. (See page 76 of the print issue.)
In general, I am beginning to see small signs of a highly elusive
"recovery." This edition of our magazine has grown over the same
period last year. Business people of all types seem to have a little more
optimism toward things improving and people everywhere seem to
be showing a bit more hope. When I attended the amazing Pebble
Beach Food and Wine festival this April, it was apparent. The event was
well attended and people were having a great time. I suggest to all of
us that we get out more. Go to events and support the arts. Live
music needs your support and improves our moods to boot. There is
something for everyone here, and I am glad to see new venues popping
up all over the county. Socialize, connect with old friends, and
make new ones. Help each other, as we are all in this together.
It was 10 years ago that Tiger Woods graced the cover of Carmel
Magazine and played the U.S. Open at Pebble Beach. He went on to
dominate the tournament and golf in general. Now steeped in controversy
regarding personal choices and conduct, he is coming back to
Pebble Beach for the 2010 U.S. Open and has a lot to prove. This
year's championship will prove to be dramatic and Tiger's presence
definitely adds a twist, which ensures a captive audience worldwide.
(See page 94, print issue.)
Also on the golf front, be sure to read sports writer Alan Shipnuck's
golf insider's guide to Monterey County courses. Alan shares his perspective
on the best public and private courses and the great values
at certain unsung gems. (See page 80, print issue.)
Lastly, I want to thank Brett Wilbur for her commitment to excellence
and for doing a great job as our full-time editor during the past
three years. Brett became a victim of circumstances as Carmel
Magazine, like many other businesses affected by the economic downturn,
had to make some changes. Although no longer an employee,
she is still writing and editing for the magazine and continues to do a
phenomenal job. Thanks Brett!
Steve Snider
Publisher, Carmel Magazine