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SOHO President's Message
By David W. Goldberg
November/December 2020
 2020 continues its trajectory to become one of the most, if not the most, consequential years of our lifetimes—and we still have two months to go!
All of our lives have been impacted by COVID-19 in ways that none of us could have envisioned. Some segments of society are suffering greatly here and throughout the country, while others are prospering. The inequities are troubling, to say the least.
There are, however, aspects of the pandemic that give me hope and a sense of optimism: Human resilience and the ability so many have shown in adapting to sudden unanticipated changes. At SOHO, the work of preservation continues unabated in spite of the disheartening temporary closure of all museums and managed sites, the most visible of SOHO's many contributions to the community.
To better serve our members and supporters and to maintain a visible presence, SOHO is producing online lectures and conversations. Currently, a number of video ideas and social media campaigns are in development. The learning curve is fast and steep, but virtual/video/digital programs will serve SOHO and the preservation movement well for years to come. Not only will these presentations supplement existing educational and outreach activities, our online programs and exhibits will be available to anyone with an internet connection, no matter where in the world they may be. The power of the worldwide web never fails to amaze me.
During the last few months, SOHO has been involved with, monitored, worked on, or provided advocacy support for a wide range of resources and governmental plans. These include the Hillcrest Plan Amendment process; the Paxton Adobe in Escondido, which is threatened with demolition; the Matzen Acres Ranch, also in Escondido, which has been purchased by a flipper; the landmark Home Savings & Loan (now Chase Bank) building and iconic mosaics in Pacific Beach, which the bank is eyeing with a wrecking ball; and several California Assembly and Senate bills that would circumvent CEQA and historic review for eligible resources. Phew! This is only a partial list, but you get the idea.
I'm also encouraged by the ongoing evolution of SOHO's perspective regarding what's worth preserving. For example, SOHO is now concerned with the fate of postmodern structures, generally built in the 1980s and '90s, when the style flourished. I must admit that it's taken me some time to appreciate the importance of this movement. I joined SOHO in 1979 when postmodernism was taking off, and old and often historic buildings were being demolished to make way for new postmodern structures. This did not sit well with me.
That being said, postmodernism has stood the test of time, and preservationists need to do their part in ensuring that important examples are preserved.
On behalf of the SOHO board of directors, staff, and volunteers, I wish everyone a very happy—and most importantly—a healthy and safe holiday season! The times may be challenging but we will prevail. And it goes without saying that year-end (or anytime) contributions to SOHO in support of our mission are always greatly appreciated. By supporting SOHO, you are creating a lasting legacy by helping preserve our history, heritage, and the vulnerable art form of all—architecture.
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