Penny Abell

“So, what’s so special about Del Mar? Some indefinable mix of climate, architecture, urban woods, lovely beach, flowered medians, pleasant restaurants, and interesting people? Yes, but more. Except for the climate, all of these amenities are ours because we live in a self-conscious community, one in which its members take pride and care in maintaining its beauty and its charms and in nurturing our social ties.

“The City of Del Mar was founded by activists who did not want to be swallowed in the gaping maw of San Diego. Over time changing generations have worked politically to protect the city, and they have created not-for-profit organizations that have become pillars of our community [with] visible positive impacts on Del Mar…

“These groups have another profound impact on our small community. They bring us together. We share the joys and frustrations of projects and we enjoy together the fruits of that labor…

“Yes, sometimes neighbors strongly disagree. The election season can strain relationships. Land use issues cause tension. We fight, [but] Del Mar is an extraordinary city, a community, neighbors and friends. Let’s keep it that way.”

Penny Abell resides on Serpentine Dr. Among her many professional and civic endeavors, Penny served as the Editor of the Sandpiper in 2005-2006. The above is excerpted from her Editorial published in the April 2005 Sandpiper. In January, Penny and her husband Buck Abell celebrated their 90th birthdays at the Del Mar Powerhouse, surrounded by friends, family, and the live jazz music they both love.