Submitted by Harvey Meislin
Response to the article, “Demolition of the Cays Guard Shack Saddens Residents“
Are You Nuts?! I have been a Cays resident for over 15 years. I have observed countless near tragic events at the Cays entrance from bicyclists not slowing down, cars going too fast, mothers with carriages not observing the traffic and drivers trying to get to the beach via parking in the Cays. I have observed on multiple occasions cars stopping at the kiosk which then results in traffic backing up onto the Strand. It was, “an accident waiting to happen.”
Fortunately this situation was recognized by the City of Coronado and the sharp eye of the Cays Homeowners Association officers. The City and Cays HOA studied the situation and came up with a plan to increase visibility, add lighting, enhance traffic flow and lessen the potential of a serious, if not fatal accident. The City of Coronado working with the Cays HOA had plans drawn up to maintain and beautify the Cays entryway while making it safer for everyone: motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians.
Fortunately and wisely, the City of Coronado agreed to pay for these improvements which adds safety and beauty to the residents and visitors of Coronado. This is a costly project to lower walls, move the kiosk away from traffic flow, add lighting and enhance the beauty of the Cays entrance.
Despite this, in come the naysayers. “Demolition of the Cays Guard Shack Saddens Residents.” Someone, in the dark of night, tags the original guard shack with graffiti. Then someone demeans the Cays HOA officer for reporting this crime to the Police. Yes, it is a crime to deface property that is not yours. These protests remind me of a quote from Shakespeare (Hamlet), “…Thou doth protest too much, methinks”. Although the safety for our citizens will be greatly improved, the nostalgia of what was seems to take precedent. My analysis: Are You Nuts? Stop Whining. It’s better, more beautiful and much, much safer.
We owe a debt to the City of Coronado and the Coronado Cays Home Owners Association for the foresight and funding of this project before a fatality or serious accident occurred. We owe an apology to Helen Kupka, President of the Cays Homeowners Association for the negative comments against her, after she spent, as a volunteer, hundreds of hours spearheading this project.
Social media is an easy forum to whine, critique and demean. I was taught to think before I spoke. Remember, “If you don’t have anything good to say, don’t say it”. I suggest in today’s world one ought to think before they push the enter button. Let’s come together when it pertains to improving the safety of our kids, family and friends. Let’s continue to improve our community for residents and visitors and let’s be kind to one another.
Harvey Meislin
