Thanks for the Resounding Success of our Arts and Crafts Fair

President’s Letter
November 2025

Dear Cambria Neighbors,

I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for the resounding success of our Arts and Crafts Fair, which was a lovely afternoon celebrating our community’s creativity and generosity of spirit! Marissa Powels has been the driving force behind this event, tirelessly organizing vendors—who adore her—while managing setup, advertising, and decorations with remarkable talent. We simply could not have done this without her! A special thank you to Janet Cooper for lending her architectural expertise to create a seamless event layout, meticulously mapping out vendor spaces, crafting name plates, setting stakes and measurements, and arriving at 6:00 AM in the dark on Saturday to handle final details. Our dedicated volunteers brought this event to life, and their efforts deserve heartfelt recognition: Kristy Lundstrom and Avril Allen distributed flyers to Moonstone Beach hotels, spreading the word with enthusiasm; Veronica Berry and Josie Wernecke carefully staked out all the vendor spots; Kathi Strahl transformed the fair with her beautiful decorations; Jackie and Boyd Hogan placed signs along the highways to guide attendees; and Shelly Vinatieri, Amy Handel, and Denise Caras assisted vendors with unloading at the entrance gates, ensuring a smooth start.

Your collective efforts truly brought our community together, making this fair a triumph we’ll all cherish!

I was touched to receive a note from Claudia Solomon, a valued CNC member and vendor, whose words capture the vendors’ appreciation for Marissa’s outstanding leadership and the joy of the day:

“Dear CNC,

As a vendor, I would like to thank Marissa Powels and her team for the wonderful Craft Fair. It was a beautiful and fun day. Marissa did a great job of communicating by email ahead of time, as well as welcoming vendors and directing us to our locations. The band was next to us and did an excellent job entertaining everyone.

Thanks again,

Claudia Solomon, CNC Member”

As the year draws to a close, I find myself filled with profound gratitude for our extraordinary 2025 board members, whose talent, generosity, and unwavering commitment have been the heart and soul of the Cambria Neighbors Club. Words can hardly capture the depth of my appreciation for this remarkable group, who have not only fulfilled their responsibilities with exceptional skill but have also worked seamlessly as a team, supporting one another with grace and dedication.

Each board member has brought unique gifts to our club—whether through their creative vision, tireless effort, or ability to inspire those around them. Together, they have exemplified the very essence of our mission: fostering collaboration, pursuing shared goals, and building a vibrant community rooted in mutual respect and shared interests. Their countless hours of service, innovative ideas, and heartfelt commitment have enriched every event, strengthened our connections, and ensured that our club remains a welcoming and dynamic space for all.

As I reflect on their contributions, my heart is full. The 2025 board members are more than leaders—they are the embodiment of what makes our club so special. On behalf of all of us, I extend my deepest thanks for their extraordinary generosity and for making this year one of growth, unity, and joy. They are:

Shelly Vinatieri – Programs
Edna Alexander – Treasurer
Melody Strong – Membership
Cheryl Johnson and Gail Greene – Reservations
Luanne Kittle – Secretary
Lori Silver and Cam Arnold – Newsletter
Amy Handel – Activities
Deb Addis – Sunshine
Sharon Young – Hospitality

Looking ahead to our November 20th luncheon and presentation at the Cambria Pines Lodge, we’re happy to have Joe Burnett, a titan in wildlife conservation, share his 30-year journey saving the California condor from the brink of extinction. Since 1993 with Ventana Wildlife Society, Joe has led historic releases in Big Sur and Pinnacles, pioneered Oregon Zoo’s condor breeding program, and now serves as VWS’s Senior Wildlife Biologist. Battling lead poisoning and rebuilding after the 2020 Dolan Fire, his work has soared the condor population to nearly 100 in Northern California. A two-term Monterey County Fish and Game Commissioner, Joe’s insights from GPS tracking and public “Condor Chats” inspire action. Don’t miss this chance to learn how he’s rewriting the future for these majestic birds.

I’m looking forward to seeing you there!

Yours sincerely,

Susan Schmidt
President