Greetings, Fellow Avilones.  It’s time to gear up for the month of May, with two notable, and one not so notable, dates on the calendar.  First, of course, is the one we all know better than to forget – MOTHER’S DAY on May 14th!  Get your shopping done early before all the best greetings cards, candy, flowers or whatever you want to gift are still in stock.  Later this month we celebrate Memorial Day on May 29th, a three-day weekend that also signals the opening of the floodgates for visitors who each summer commandeer our beloved Avila Beach.  Lesser known and enjoyed in America is “May Day”, a public holiday celebrated on May 1 in many different cultures around the world. It is a day of unity, togetherness, and rebirth; a day for everyone to come together and celebrate life as we know it.  All in all, lots of fun in store this month.

One of the really neat things about this time of year is the re-positioning of the Avila Beach Lifeguard Towers, featuring the touted public art murals created and installed by local artist icon Colleen Gnos back in 2017.  Over the years these murals have generated lots of positive response and, unfortunately, some unwanted attention by people who enjoy defacing public structures.  Yes, I am referring to the graffiti outlaws who, on two occasions, left their marks on the towers.  Fortunately, Colleen and her team have been able to repair the damage both times.  Most recently she removed the markings and applied a coat of anti-graffiti varnish that should last 15 years, and enable about 160 acetone treatments of graffiti removal without affecting the original artwork.  While the lifeguard towers and murals are now owned by the Port San Luis Harbor District, the project was spearheaded by the Avila Beach Community Foundation.  In shifting ownership to PSLHD, the “Foundation” agreed to help with ongoing maintenance of the murals by raising funds to help pay for cleaning every two months, and graffiti removal as needed.  A special Avila Beach Public Art Preservation Fund was formed for this purpose.  If you would like to donate to this fund, for a contribution in any amount we will gladly give you one of our limited-edition Proud Avilone license plate frames.  Donations can be sent to PO Box 297, Avila Beach, CA  93424.

For those of you who spend time along the beach boardwalk and overlooks, you may have noticed a crew of adults doing some sweeping up of sand and debris several mornings each week between May and September.  The crew comes from an agency known as PathPoint, a non-profit organization that offers a wide variety of services to help individuals with developmental disabilities overcome barriers to employment, to place them in jobs, and to provide them with the training and support they need to keep jobs. While gaining these valuable work/life skills, client/employees are entitled to wages equal to California’s minimum wage regulations.  You might be surprised at the amount of sand that finds its way from the beach, up the stairs, and onto the walkways and gutters.  Likewise, debris such as cigarette butts, bottle caps and can pull tabs.  All this produces potentially dangerous and harmful conditions, so removal is good for the environment and good for the public.  The “Foundation” contracts with PathPoint each year to provide this service, thanks to the generosity of our project funding partners; SLO County Supervisor Dawn Ortiz-Legg, Chevron and PG&E.

As a special treat for those of you who missed out on the “Foundation’s” History of Front Street presentation, or for even those who did attend and want another look, you’re in luck!  If you visit the home page of our website, you will see an introduction and link to the several dozen old time photos shown by Pete Kelley at the March event.  Front Street is depicted from many different angles and during various periods of time.  One of the common threads over Avila’s history is that the beach was always popular and crowded. 

Last but not least is one more reminder that the Avila Beach Farmers’ Market launches its season this coming Friday, May 5th.  That also marks the first date you can grab a free ride on the Avila Beach Trolley if you want to avoid crowded parking conditions.   You should be able to find the Trolley route and schedule by visiting the SLORTA website. 

​That’s it for now, fellow Avilones. Have a great month, and we’ll see you at the beach!

​Greetings, Fellow Avilones. As the saying goes, “spring has sprung,” and we have headed into a new season. Winter was sort of a lost cause due to colder, windier and wetter than usual weather, though a strong case can be made that the rain was badly needed to replenish our lakes and reservoirs. It’s just a shame that so much damage occurred throughout SLO County. Some of the breaking news for this month’s column comes from Julie Andrews-Scott, who has informed me that this year’s Avila Farmers’ Market will operate each Friday from May 5th through August 25th. This activity has become quite popular, and was first launched by Julie as a senior project while attending Cal Poly. Congratulations, Julie! And, we also received word from South County Transit that the Free Avila Trolley will run from May 5th through September 2nd. Rides remain free as the “Foundation” continues to help subsidize Trolley operating costs.

Just a few days ago, the “Foundation” successfully hosted the latest rendition of our Avila History series. This time local historian Pete Kelley took us through a slide show tour of Avila’s Front Street in the old days. It was stunning to see how the area has evolved, and that even way back then the crowds visiting our beach were enormous. We knew this free event would be popular when it “sold out” within 8 hours of being posted, so we added a repeat performance for the following night, which also sold out. In addition to the slide show, the “Foundation” treated attendees to a tasty dessert, and the Civic Association set up a no host bar to help raise funds for the Community Center. Rounding out the evening was a drawing for some door prizes, including three framed old-time photos donated by Richard and Kathy Zacky, along with a few items of Avilone “swag.”

As we prepared for the Avila History event, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own time in the area. My wife, our cat and I moved from Irvine in 1989 and initially landed in Los Osos. The two of us having met as Irvine tennis players, it didn’t take long after our move to learn that the best competition in the area was at the Avila Bay Athletic Club. It was sometime in early 1990 that we ventured out to the Club, liked what we saw, and joined. Come that first summer in 1990, we also discovered that while Los Osos was shrouded in fog, the summer sun was always shining in Avila. "Let’s move there!!! Easier said than done. Back then San Luis Bay Estates had only two residential developments, and one was for people aged 55+ years. We were too young. Homes in downtown Avila were rarely seen on the market, and sales seemed to occur only via word of mouth. So, in 1995 we ended up in Pelican Point, stretching our budget for the slightly more than $200k price tag. I’m not complaining, but homes in PP have been selling recently in the $1m range. Sheesh!

Looking back, so much has changed. Many of the people in our neighborhood back then have since passed away. Same with the pets we grew so fond of. The Avila Bay Club back in the 90s was truly an adult sanctuary. It was a serene place to hang out after tennis, with very few kids around. As the area developed and began attracting families, the Bay Club transitioned to become family oriented.   No more quiet days around the pool. Back then the Avila Beach Golf Resort was just a golf course, but has since become more of an event venue and less oriented to the golfing community. Downtown Avila lost its “funky” vibe, having been rebuilt after the ”Big Dig.” While the beach town is certainly prettier, the local’s culture has been largely replaced by second home owners and vacation rental condos. Remember Custom House when it had two dining sections, with the outdoor area that included a neat aviary? I also recall Fat Cats being open 24-hours to accommodate the fishing industry workers coming in at all hours. Back then you could get a HUGE breakfast for 5 bucks!

I am reminded of the song lyrics “Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da, life goes on” as recorded by the Beatles in 1968. Long after we are gone, the next generation will look back on its own memories. They will refer to the good old days of the mid-21st century. It will likely become even more digital. I suspect currency will become a product of the past. I imagine movie theaters will be ancient history. I believe that brick and mortar stores will have all but vanished and most purchases will be online. Life will be lived by how advanced mobile devices become, experienced through six-inch screens in the palm of the hand. Gas vehicles will be no more, and when power outages occur there will be so many stranded electric vehicles. Progress will always prevail, for better or for worse. All in all, I’m actually pretty glad that I’ve lived when I have. I’m just not well suited to what tomorrow may bring. 

Last, but not least, please see the announcement below from Bellevue-Santa Fe Charter School for a free community event on Saturday, April 15. They are also accepting donations beginning April 10.

Oh well, that's it for now, fellow Avilones. See you at the beach!
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Greetings, fellow Avilones.   As most of you know, the main function of the Avila Beach Community Foundation is to issue grants that improve the quality of life in Avila Beach.  This includes support to local non-profit and public agencies that offer services or provide community enhancement projects.   Each of our grantees is required to report back to the Foundation at the end of the year the results of their work related to our funding.  This month I will share with you some feedback from one of our 2022 grantees that I think you will find interesting.  But first, here’s some news about an upcoming special event I have been telling you about for the last few months.

Mark your calendar for our “History of Front Street” presentation, scheduled for March 30th.  Local historian Pete Kelley will be sharing some wonderful old-time slides along with a narrative of life in Avila Beach going back many decades.  This event – which is free and by invitation only, is being held at the Avila Beach Community Center, from 6:30-8:00p.m.  No dinner is being served, but dessert is on us.   The Civic Association will offer beer and wine for those wishing to purchase an adult beverage.  Those of you who presently subscribe to the Foundation’s e-newsletter will receive electronic invitations to the event.  Attendance will be limited to the first 70 people who respond to the invitation.  Those of you who only receive the Avila Beach Life print news publication can request an invitation by sending an email to: avilabeachcf@gmail.com.  We look forward to seeing you on the 30th!

Now, getting back to my opening paragraph, I am pleased to tell you a little about one of our grantees, the Cancer Well-Fit program, held at the Avila Bay Athletic Club.  CWF provides its no-cost wellness program to men and women in our community in varying stages of cancer.  Over the years CWF staff has shared with the Foundation some of the comments they receive from grateful program participants.  This feedback tells the story of just how important the program has been in enabling their ability to resume a healthy life.  Following are just some of the comments included in the last CWF year-end grant report…..

“I did not know what to expect from the program but really wanted to transition from fatigue, weakness and fragility of treatment’s side effects to a more “normal” life.  The program helped me meet these desires very well/excellently. I increased my stamina, endurance and strength. Under supervision, I was able to return, physically and emotionally, to better fitness and to re-enter society.” 

“I looked forward to being with others in like situations, and this program provides camaraderie with other cancer patients.  I experienced openness, support and the generosity of our local community through this helpful program.” 

“I needed structure and motivation to get moving again after surgery and six weeks of radiation.  This program was excellent!  I loved the introduction to TRX training.  Both trainers were kind, patient and supportive/flexible.  I looked forward to seeing the other participants.”

“I was clueless about what to expect when we started the program.  My desire was to increase my energy, strength and endurance.  My desires were met 100%!  I looked forward to swimming after our group workouts and having muscle fatigue.  I would like to suggest that receiving nutrition information as part of this program would be very helpful.”

This from CWF Executive Director Jan Secord and Program Director Danielle Lien. “On behalf of our Cancer Well-fit team of compassionate and caring instructors, we thank all of you at the Avila Beach Community Foundation for your continued support!  Your vote of confidence in us and the funding you provide allow us to continue to provide this helpful program for our neighbors”.  The Foundation is proud to help make such a huge difference through our support. 

That’s it for now, fellow Avilones.  See you at the beach!
​

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  February is upon us, and I bet you know what’s coming.  This is the month we celebrate Valentine’s Day and President’s Day holidays.  And, of course, my wife’s birthday.  For the past 13 years two of these dates were enjoyed with our now deceased, but not forgotten dog, “Dodger,” so it will be strange/sad not having him around to help shop for greeting cards and presents.  For some reason he always insisted on purchasing a supply of doggie treats for his “mom.”

By the time you receive this publication, about three weeks will have passed since the devastating January storms roiled Avila Beach and other parts of SLO County.  Avila was hit particularly hard with water rising above the creek, spilling onto the main roads into town, and swamping businesses at Avila Village, Avila Bay Athletic Club and Avila Beach Golf Resort.  Sadly, a life was lost during rampaging flooding on Avila Beach Drive near Sycamore Mineral Springs.  And if all that wasn’t bad enough, the greater Avila communities were without power for nearly two full days! 

While we cannot control all effects of Mother Nature, how we respond always leaves an impression.  And I have to say that I was NOT impressed with what my wife and I experienced on the evening of January 9th.  I share this debacle with you to vent my frustration.  After languishing without power the entire day, we ventured out to South County to pick up some prescription medication and grab some dinner since it wasn’t raining very hard at that time.  The “circus” began when we tried to drive back home on the 101 after entering the 4th Street onramp.  Things looked good as we headed northbound towards Avila.   We knew the Avila Beach Drive offramp was closed, thus planned on taking the San Luis Bay Drive offramp.  No such luck, the northbound freeway was closed, and all vehicles were forced to exit at Avila Beach Drive.  What!!!!

We quickly came upon a line of cars and freight trucks that exited before us, as well as the flashing lights of patrol cars ahead blocking further travel.  There we sat for several minutes, then inched closer to the front of the line, which we knew to be a dead end.  Drivers were being re-routed back onto the southbound onramp to head where?  Who knows?  Finally, as I began approaching a patrol car to get some information, word came via loud-speaker that in order to travel north into San Luis Obispo or beyond, drivers should head back to Price Canyon Road, take it to Hwy 227, then find their way back onto the 101.   Not one word about how we could get back home to Avila.  Did they close the San Luis Bay Drive exit as well?  Fortunately knowing our way around, we continued along HWY 227/Broad Street to South Street, to Higuera Street, to Madonna Road, onto southbound 101, then were able to exit on San Luis Bay Drive and make our way home.

 So, why the heck was San Luis Bay Drive exit closed coming from the south and not from the north?  From what we could view, no flooding reached that exit side.  Thus, what could have been a 5-minute drive home became a very circuitous 2-mile, one-half hour detour.  I suppose one could find a comical side to this story, but all in all it left a sour taste in my mouth.  Most striking was the lack of information or direction.  Some signage on the freeway forewarning drivers would have been helpful, but none was seen in either direction, at least not so on our routes. Likewise, patrol officers on the scene could have been more helpful than just sitting in their squad cars with lights flashing.  I worry what will happen when a greater disaster visits the area.  Are the responders we rely upon truly prepared to act?  I imagine that question won’t endear me to our friends in public service, but I feel it must be asked.  I do so not in my capacity with the Avila Beach Community Foundation, but as a citizen of San Luis Obispo County. 

​That’s all for now, fellow Avilones.  See you at the beach!

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  Happy New Year one and all!  Yep, we made it – er limped – through 2022, and now face the challenges of 2023.  The first task is post-holiday tidying up.  Put the decorations back in the closet, place the used gift wrap in the trash, and figure which of the gifts you received need to be returned for store credit towards something you can actually use.  At the beginning of last year Covid was still very much on our minds.  Booster shots were readily available, people were still wearing masks at indoor locations, but things began to open up by mid-year (thankfully).   While Covid is still a factor – particularly these winter months – greater concerns loom over the economy, and the prediction by some that a recession is coming seems to dominate the news these days.  Interest rates are up, real estate sales are cooling, and inflation just won’t go away and leave us alone.  At least gasoline prices are going down.  Kinda makes me want to go for a drive just to enjoy the savings.
 
The Foundation Board of Trustees has been shuffled a bit heading into 2023.  Retiring from our board is Mike Ginn, who has served for 12 years – three as President.   Dang, we will miss him!  Next on the “shuffle” list is 2022 President Cyndy Lakowske who, along with husband Steve, is relocating to Sedona in a few months and will leave the board at that time – another great loss for the Foundation and our community.   Fortunately, 2022 Vice-President Barbara Nicholson has stepped into the 2023 Presidency – she will be terrific!  Replacing Barbara as Vice-President is Saul Golberg, who has been with us since 2016.   Ellen Pitrowski enters her fourth year as Secretary, and Patrick Corrigan enters his second year as Treasurer. Rounding out our line-up for 2023 are returning Trustees Bev Aho, Lucinda Borchard, Joe Caradonna, Percy Jones, Paul Prather, Debra Pritchard and Richard Zacky.  My thanks to each of them for their dedication to the community.
 
Preview of Coming Attractions:  Last month I mentioned that the “Foundation” had been in discussions with local historian Pete Kelley about the sharing of his incredible treasure trove of old-time photos and stories about Avila in the early days.  Well, the date is set!  Pete will offer these photos and his knowledge via a slide-show presentation and narrative on Thursday evening, March 30th at the Avila Beach Community Center.  Mark your calendars and be on the look-out for an invitation to attend in another month or so.  The event is free, but will be limited to the first 80 people who sign-up.  Dinner is NOT included, but available will be some desserts, coffee and adult beverages. 

Coming Through in the Clutch:  We at the “Foundation” were delighted to receive a year-end grant from PG&E in the amount of $10,000.  These funds will be used for our ongoing Avila Beach beautification projects, such as the seasonal beach-area sand and debris removal program, the maintenance and restoration of Avila’s public art installations, and towards the removal of graffiti on local public structures.  Many thanks to PG&E for the company’s longstanding commitment to our community, and to PG&E Public Policy and External Affairs Eric Daniels for his advocacy on our behalf.

Some of you may have noticed the graffiti attack earlier this year on one of the Avila Beach Lifeguard Towers murals that have been enjoyed by so many since installed by local artist Colleen Gnos.  I am pleased to report that Colleen and local Avilone Bev Aho recently applied some “elbow grease” to remove the graffiti, after which Colleen touched up the damaged area using her special skills.  While we can hope no further attacks occur, it is likely that there will be more knuckleheads out there just waiting for the opportunity to ruin things for the rest of us.  Thankfully the “Foundation” has a special fund set aside to pay for any further graffiti or damage to Avila’s public art installations. 

That’s all for now Avilone's. See you at the beach!
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Greetings, fellow Avilones. Here we go again. With Thanksgiving safely in the rearview mirror, we now focus our collective energies on the rapidly approaching Christmas and Hannukah celebrations. Or, some of you may honor “Festivus,” which is a secular holiday, normally celebrated on December 23rd, mainly meant as an alternative to the pressures and commercialization of the Christmas season. However, it has also become a day to celebrate the ever-lasting comedy of the 1990s television show Seinfeld. Originally created by author Daniel O'Keefe in the 1960’s/70’s, “Festivus” entered popular culture after it was made the focus of the 1997 Seinfeld episode "The Strike", which O'Keefe's son, Dan O'Keefe, co-wrote.

Okay, now that you are officially updated on trivial matters, let me bring you up to speed on something more substantive.

The Avila Beach Community Foundation Board of Trustees met on November 10th to determine grant awards to be used for the coming year. The total amount we allocate each year is greatly affected by the current value of our investment portfolio, which is tied solely to the stock market. As you are likely aware, stocks have taken a huge hit this year, as has our portfolio (down more than 20%) so, unfortunately, we have had to reduce the total amount of funds available. For this round of funding, we have allocated a grand total of $50,000 (down roughly 10% from the last round).

Grants were awarded to: Avila Beach Civic Association, Avila Beach Junior Lifeguards Program, Bellevue-Santa Fe Charter School, Cancer Well-Fit Program at the Avila Bay Club, Central Coast Aquarium, KCBX Public Radio, Noor Foundation of San Luis Obispo, Operation Surf, People’s Self Help Housing at Lachen Tara in Avila Beach, Pt. San Luis Lighthouse Keepers, Port San Luis Harbor District Doggy Doo Bags, Surfrider Foundation, Avila Beach Free Trolley, Avila Beach Life News Publication.

Having to cut grant allocations is painful for non-profit community foundations of all sizes. But in most cases the funds available are tied to portfolio values, the product of investments in the stock market. Lower risk strategies are common to reduce some of the gamble aspects of market investing. The Avila Beach Community Foundation portfolio is managed by a UBS affiliate who has guided through market ups and downs since 2006. Hopefully next year will be better, and we can return to greater funding capabilities.  That being said, we are proud to have been able to infuse more than $3 million in the greater Avila Beach community since grant-making was launched in 2001.

Preview of Coming Attractions: It’s in the works! If you like learning about the colorful history of Avila Beach, keep your eyes open for an event being planned for the spring of 2023. The “Foundation” has been in discussions with local historian Pete Kelley, who has in his possession an incredible treasure trove of old-time photos and stories about Avila in the early days. Pete will share these photos and his knowledge via a slide-show presentation sure to delight all who attend the event. Announcements and details will be released in the near future.
 
Coming to an Intersection Near You: In case you haven’t heard, plans are underway for construction of a “Roundabout” at the Avila Beach Drive/Hwy 101 intersection. SLO County Public Works and Cal Trans are overseeing the project, which comes with a $12,500,000 price tag. Now entering Phase III of the planning process, construction is estimated to begin mid-year 2023, and take two years for completion. The project also includes a Park & Ride car lot, and an Avila Trolley and bus stop. The “Roundabout” is designed to accommodate multi-safety features for vehicular, cyclist and pedestrian traffic.

As mentioned in our November newsletter, with Christmas and Hannukah fast approaching, I once again invite you to contribute to the Avila Beach Public Art Development & Preservation Fund by securing a special gift for one or more of your Avila Beach family members or friends.  Yes, this is an unabashed “commercial moment”, but worth your consideration.  You can acquire this limited-edition License Plate Holder when you make a contribution in any amount to the “Avila Beach Public Art Development & Preservation Fund.” See details below.

Send your check to: Avila Beach Community Foundation
P.O. Box 297, Avila Beach, CA 93424
Be sure to include your contact information so we can arrange delivery of your frame(s).

Last but not least are two things I remind you of each December. Cal Fire Battalion Chief Paul Lee says it’s time to replace the batteries in our smoke alarms and check our carbon monoxide detectors. The seasonal changes in daylight savings each year are the perfect periods to complete these tasks. Also, I urge you to always purchase your postage and ship your packages at our local Avila Beach Post Office to keep it financially viable. We are so fortunate to be able to avoid the long lines at busier post offices in SLO County, and the friendly and helpful services of Cindy, Mary and Julie are greatly appreciated. 
 
That’s it for now, fellow Avilones. I wish you Very Happy Holidays! See you at the beach!
​

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  How can it be???  The holiday season is already knocking on our door, but doesn’t it seem like just yesterday we were still winding down from summer?  I suppose it’s time to “talk turkey” and get down to the business of preparing for Thanksgiving.  Of course, that celebration won’t take place until after the November 8th general elections, the outcome of which will undoubtedly have a major impact on how our country is governed the next two years.  Speaking of turkeys (no, I’m not referring to political parties), wild ones sure seem to be in abundance these days, taking up residence at the Avila Beach Golf Resort and the rolling hills neighborhoods in the San Luis Bay Estates.  While the turkeys can be a nuisance, they are just one of the many wildlife species that regularly inhabit or visit our Avila Beach communities.
​
As I have mentioned in recent newsletter columns, the “Foundation” has returned to its traditional grant-making procedures after two years of special pandemic-related assistance to local agencies.  In an effort to re-acquaint ourselves with our community partners, we hosted a “Meet the Grantees Social” at our board meeting on October 13th at the Avila Beach Community Center.  This was a wonderful opportunity to gather our community partners, let everyone learn more about their collective work, and meet some of the new agency leaders that weren’t around before the pandemic.  In case you are curious, the “Foundation” has awarded grants in excess of $3 million since 2001.  And since 2009 nearly $600,000 has been awarded collectively to the agencies in attendance at the 10/13 social gathering.

I imagine a good number of you who spend time at the beach during the summer have noticed the activities of the Avila Beach Junior Lifeguards Program.  We recently heard from director Russ Edwards that this year was another one of high energy and great success.  According to Russ, over 300 kids were able to participate during this summer’s two sessions, the most ever for the program.  In addition to the educational components of the JG program is a series of skills competitions against other JG programs.  This summer the Avila Beach team came in second place at the Carpinteria JG Competition behind their arch rival Santa Barbara JG program.  The next week at the Santa Barbara competition the Avila team finished in first place, beating Santa Barbara on their home turf.  Says Russ, “with thousands of points out there and thousands of kids competing, first place was decided in the final event of the day and Avila Beach came out on top, and we once again sent a large number of JGs to the State Regional Championships and represented very well there with several of our JGs as state champions!”   The Avila Beach Community Foundation is a proud sponsor of our local team, and we congratulate Russ, his staff and the entire team for their great success this year!
 
The Central Coast Commission for Senior Citizens is conducting a survey to assess the needs of seniors on the central coast. The preferred method of completion would be online.  The online survey can be accessed through the home page of our website or at:   https://centralcoastseniors.org/needsurvey2022/. Hand written forms can be emailed to: surveys@centralcoastseniors.org or mailed to 528 S. Broadway, Santa Maria, CA  93454.
 
I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but there is an increasing amount of graffiti appearing at our beach town.  Some under the bridge crossing the creek that flows to the ocean, and some on our marquee public art lifeguard tower murals.  It is defacing and disturbing, to say the least.  I realize no community is immune to vandalism of this sort, but for the most part Avila Beach has been relatively untouched.  There is a cost associated with the ongoing removal of graffiti, and the “Foundation” has established a special fund for this purpose.  So, with Christmas and Hannukah fast approaching, I once again invite you to contribute to this fund by securing a special gift for one or more of your Avila Beach family members or friends.   Yes, this is an unabashed “commercial moment”, but worth your consideration.   You can acquire this limited-edition License Plate Holder when you make a contribution in any amount to the “Avila Beach Public Art Development & Preservation Fund.”
 
Send your check to: Avila Beach Community Foundation
P.O. Box 297, Avila Beach, CA 93424
Be sure to include your contact information so we can arrange delivery of your frame(s).
 
That’s it for now, fellow Avilones.  I wish you an enjoyable Thanksgiving celebration.  See you at the beach!

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  With summer safely in the rearview mirror, we can now set our sights on the upcoming fourth quarter of the year, filled with activities and holidays.   October is a month when we typically see some of our best weather here in Avila Beach, though it is not uncommon to have a few exceptionally hot days, which for the most part we avoided this past summer.  With a return to normal fourth quarter functions after a two-year absence due to the pandemic, the “Foundation” enters its busiest season.  Our focus the next couple of months will be on evaluating applications from local agencies seeking grants for programs/projects to take place in 2023, and choosing those we can support.  Come December, I will publicly announce the grantee recipients.

By now, I imagine most of you have been informed about the future of the Diablo Canyon Power Plant.  Previously on a track toward de-commissioning, things have changed, mostly due to concerns about potential power deficiencies without the plant.  Circulated in early September by Eric Daniels, PG&E Public Policy and External Fairs representative for San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara Counties, was the following communication…….
​
 “Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 846 into law today.  The law directs all relevant state agencies and PG&E to act quickly and coordinate on the necessary and prudent actions to extend Diablo Canyon Power Plant (DCPP) operations for an additional five years beyond 2025.  SB 846 ensures energy reliability as the state accelerates its transition to renewable sources.  The bill was supported by local representatives Senator John Laird and Assemblyman Jordan Cunningham.  The Legislature showed overwhelming support for the bill in its final votes:  Assembly Floor 69-3 and Senate Floor 31-1.  PG&E is committed to California’s clean energy future and as a regulated utility, we are required to follow the energy policies of the state.” 

“As part of SB 846, the state will authorize a loan of up to $1.4 billion to PG&E to support extending operations at DCPP.  The law also directs PG&E to take steps to secure funds from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and any other potentially available federal funding, which would be used to pay back the loan and lower costs for customers.  To that end, today PG&E filed an application for federal funding through the DOE’s Civil Nuclear Credit program.”

“While the state has changed policy regarding operating DCPP beyond the current expiration date of the licenses, it has also directed continued work on decommissioning planning activities.  Consequently, PG&E intends to continue on a parallel path towards ultimate decommissioning, including maintaining the Decommissioning Engagement Panel.”

On another matter, a question was directed to me last month about the Bob Jones Pathway, so I reached out to Nick Franco from SLO County Recreation and Parks for a clarification about the issue of motorized bikes allowed on the Pathway.  Nick responded thusly………….“electric bikes are a frequent topic of discussion on the Bob Jones Pathway.  The Pathway is extremely popular (which is a great thing) and that can sometimes lead to conflicts with so many users on the trail and some not displaying appropriate consideration for others.  Whether on a pedal bike or an
​e-bike, the laws require people to travel at a speed that is safe for the conditions.  When the trail is crowded, that safe speed may only be 5mph, 2mph or less.  California law prohibits class 3
e-bikes from trails, but permits class 1 and 2 e-bikes on trails.  For the purposes of this law, the Bob Jones Pathway falls under the trail category and class 3 e-bikes are prohibited, (a class 3
e-bike features Pedal Assist only and tops off at 28mph), but all other bikes are allowed.”

Last but not least, I offer a heart-felt thank you, but sad farewell to longtime San Luis Bay Estates resident Sherry Danoff, who recently sold her home and is moving to San Diego to be closer to family.  Sherry served diligently for many years on SLBE and AVAC boards and committees.  She will be difficult to replace, but always remembered as a valued Avilone.  Good luck, Sherry! 

​That’s all for now.  See you at the beach!

Greetings, fellow Avilones. "See You in September" - that's the name of a clearly mournful recording by the "The Happenings" in 1966.  It's one of those oldies songs that speak to young love and the pains that often come with it.  In it, the school year is coming to a close and the young man is preparing for his girl to leave for the summer.  He croons, "l’ll be alone each and every night, while you're away don't forget to write", then asks, "will I see you in September, or lose you to a summer love"?  It's songs from the 60s such as this that so many of us senior citizens nostalgically recall and make us long for the good old days.
 
While we are on the path down memory lane, I was thinking about the 14+ years that I have been penning this monthly column.  It came to be back in early 2009 as a way for the "Foundation" to help make the community aware of our existence, even though the agency had been doing its thing since 1998, which consisted of issuing lots of grants totaling more than a million dollars to benefit Avila Beach as it recovered from the "Big Dig".  During the first 11 years, not many locals were aware of the "Foundation", in spite of its good work.  Upon my hire in January of 2009, I was tasked by the Board of Trustees to find ways to better promote our work in the community.  Thus, among other outreach efforts, came the birth of the Avila Community News, which became available in both digital form and print publication.  Shortly thereafter, came the birth of the Avilone - a term since fondly used by me to address all Avila Beach residents. I’ll bet you’ve seen at least one of those “I’m a Proud Avilone” license plate frames attached to the vehicle of a friend or neighbor.
 
You might imagine that I at times strain to write something you readers might care about.  This became more acute over the past two plus years when so many non-profit activities came to a screeching halt, and have yet to return full force.  For a few years prior to the Pandemic, I was a member of the SLO County Commission on Aging, and shared with you via this newsletter some of what I learned about the issues facing the elderly, as well as the programs and agencies that deal with the aging population.  The Commission was shut down for more than two years, beginning early 2020, and just got back together in July for the first time since then.  The group is re-organizing and re-visiting its mission and goals moving forward.  They meet once a month and are looking for more volunteers to serve as "members at large."  If you have any interest in serving on the Commission, in attending any meetings as a guest, or just want to learn more about senior issues, I encourage you to visit:  http://www.slocounty.ca.gov/coa.htm.

The following information comes from Eric Daniels of PG&E about Public Safety Power Shutoffs Address Alerts:  There is now an option for PG&E customers and non-account holders to sign up for notifications for any address they care about to stay informed about Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). Address Alerts might be helpful if:

• You want to know about a PSPS at your home, work, school or other important location
• You are a tenant and do not have a PG&E account
• You need to stay informed about a PSPS affecting a friend or loved one
• Multiple members of your household want to be notified

It is important to remember that if you signed up to receive these alerts prior to June 2022, you will need to re-enroll for each address, to continue receiving these notifications through June 2023. To sign up for alerts for any address that is important to you or a loved one, visit www.pge.com/addressalert.

One of the bright spots in 2021 was a new community event the “Foundation” helped support, which was developed by local Avilone Kristen McKiernan and friends.  Titled the Children’s Business Fair, the event welcomed more than 30 craft booths manned by entrepreneurial youth in various age categories hoping to sell their goods to the public, and to compete for cash prizes for creativity and presentation.  The event was very well attended, so much so that it is taking place again this year.  Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 15th from 10:00a.m. – 1:00p.m. at the Avila Beach Community Center.  If you are looking to do some early shopping for end of the year holiday gifts, this event is the place to be!  Well, I have used up my allotted space, so let me end with my usual closing.

​That’s it for now, fellow Avilones.  See you at the beach!

Greetings, fellow Avilones.   Summer in Avila Beach rolls on as usual, even as turmoil both home and abroad dominates the conversation and lives of many.  Gasoline prices remain historically high, inflation is still not under control, mass shootings pepper the headlines, Russia is still the bully, politics could hardly get any worse, Covid just won’t go away, and airline travel has become a joke.  Dang, it’s difficult to find the proverbial silver lining, isn’t it?  Yet, we must carry on with our lives and do the best we can.

One item of particular interest to our community is recent discourse about the possibility of Diablo Canyon extending its permit to operate in spite of current decommissioning plans.  PG&E, over the past couple of years, has made clear their goals for closing down operations, but government leaders are now seeking a reversal over fears that without Diablo Canyon, there will not be sufficient electricity produced by alternate sources to meet the needs of our state.   As you might suspect, anti-nuclear environmental groups are firmly against continuation of the plant, so things will get interesting as this plays out.  The ramifications of closing Diablo Canyon are many, including the loss of a valuable tax base that supports the local economy, and a large employee base that provides financial aid and volunteers to numerous non-profits, including several in Avila Beach.  Stay tuned for more information from local news sources.

Next up, I am pleased to report that the “Foundation” is gearing up for what will be our third Avila Beach History event.  This is something that was originally on the planning docket for 2020, but the Pandemic came for a visit, thus halting progress.  Our event planning committee is meeting this summer to bounce around some ideas for this third iteration.  For longtime locals and “newbies” alike, there seems to be no shortage of interest in the history of our beachfront town.  We have some ideas to mull over, but would welcome any thoughts YOU readers may have as to the content or topics of the looming gathering.  Send your ideas to me at avilafoundation@gmail.com.

While participating in the July Avila Valley Advisory Council “Zoom” meeting, I was again reminded of the valuable information shared about events, activities, services and policies related to life in Avila Beach.  For those of you interested in staying abreast of what’s going on, I encourage you to visit the websites of:  the Avila Valley Advisory Council (www.avac-avila.org) to access meeting minutes to view reports from County agencies and Avila neighborhoods; Port San Luis Harbor District (www.portsanluis.com) to learn about what’s happening at the beach and piers; Pacific Gas and Electric Company (www.pge.com) to gain valuable information about community wildfire safety programs, public safety power shutoffs, etc.  Also, be reminded that SLO County District 3 Supervisor Dawn Ortiz-Legg sets up shop at the Avila Beach Community Center the third Thursday of each month from 1:00-3:00p.m.  You are welcome to stop by and share with her your concerns about current matters.

Have you read about the recent decision by the SLO County Board of Supervisors to provide very generous compensation increases to staff in all county departments?  Evidently many employees have left the area for greater pay and greener pastures, resulting in considerable vacancies.  In the “old days”, the county was able to offer below industry wages because people were willing to sacrifice some income for quality of life.  Well, it appears those days are gone.  According to news sources, these wage increases will cost the county an additional $5 million this fiscal year and almost $10 million the next year.  Phew – that’s a lot of money.  But let’s face it, with exploding home prices and rents, how else can people afford to live here?  Have you seen real estate listings in Avila Beach/Valley? If you can spare a few million dollars, you might even get an ocean view.  And when it comes to other high prices, I had to shake my head at a recent television commercial advertising a new Jeep Grand Wagoneer for sale with a sticker price starting at $91,000.  Yes, that’s right!  $91,000 before extra features!  Heck, the first house my parents purchased cost only $11,000.  Of course, that was in 1954, but still, $91,000+ for a Jeep SUV? 

Oh well, that’s it for this month fellow Avilones.  Let’s all hang in there.  Better times will surely visit us before too long, but please don’t hold me to that prediction.  See you at the beach!
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