On November 7, 2023, the Middlebury Institute of International Studies unveiled their new public mural called “Advancing Peace Together.”
The project was developed jointly by the Institute’s Committee on Art in Public Places and the Old Monterey Foundation, a nonprofit that works to support and enhance the artistic, cultural, and historic environment of downtown Monterey.
The 14-by-40 feet mural which is located on the side of the John and Theline McCone Building at 499 Pierce Street in Monterey.
The mural shows how the Institute’s history connects with Downtown Monterey and the region. Designed by Guillermo Arranda the mural features both a view of the Monterey Bay and agricultural fields to highlight the people of Monterey and their land.
Over 50 volunteers helped paint the mural including MIIS faculty, staff, and students, members of the Old Monterey Foundation, and students from North Salinas High School and other local high schools.
MIIS volunteers also painted a new pedestrian thoroughfare at the heart of campus and along the Monterey Path of History.
agreed to become a major sponsor of the Lower Presidio Historic Park with a significant grant to fund the construction and installation of the custom signs on site.
and received an enthusiastic response. The presentation was followed by a tour of the Park so that the members could see firsthand the beauty and potential of the Park to become the jewel of the Monterey Park system. 
After threatened rain, the afternoon turned out to be sunny and dry, and a good time was had by all with wine provided by the Club.
Old Monterey Foundation is now also seeking funds to restore the Father Serra statue that was recently vandalized.
For 16 years, he was historian and curator for the Monterey Maritime & History Museum and has worked with the Monterey Bay Aquarium, California State Parks and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. He is author of “The Abalone King of Monterey: ‘Pop’ Ernest Doelter,” “The Japanese on the Monterey Peninsula” and co-author of “Monterey’s Waterfront.” Tim also conducts monthly “Wharf Walks” on Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf and offers Cannery Row walking tours, as well.
Situated in a “hidden in plain sight” location, the park features spectacular views of the Monterey Bay and Harbor and will become a jewel of the City of Monterey’s park system.
s is a five-year commitment to raise the necessary funds and direct the construction of agreed improvements that will make Lower Presidio Historic Park a centerpiece of historic Old Monterey. What is largely an unknown public facility will be turned into what looks and feels like a park (Phase I) that welcomes the public, local and visitor alike. Pathways, interpretative signs, benches and tables, and an entrance that is easily located for even the most casual visitor. Later Phases will renovate some historic buildings located on site and develop interpretation of El Castillo and Fort Mervine. An amphitheater will be installed for concerts overlooking the Bay. This 25.3 acre site will become the jewel of Monterey, worthy of its description as the Most Historically Significant Site on the West Coast.
Old Monterey Foundation 