Greetings Fellow Avilones - Can you believe that school is back in session already? I realize that this does not directly affect those of us beyond child-rearing years, but the collateral benefit can be seen all around - at least on weekdays. The beaches are less crowded, the tennis club I enjoy is much quieter, and greater tranquility in the neighborhood abounds when the little ones are congregated in classrooms. Spoken like a true childless parent, eh? I have much news to share this month, so let's get into it.
 
First off, let me welcome the "Foundation's" newest board member - Ellen Pitrowski
who was elected as a Trustee at our July 31st board meeting.  A native of Philadelphia, Ellen relocated to the Central Coast with her husband Tony in 1996, and was an attorney at the Santa Maria law firm Kirk & Simas, practicing in the areas of family law and estate planning.  During that time, she participated on local boards including the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Maria Valley, the Economic Development Association and the Northern Santa Barbara Bar Association.  When her daughters joined the scene, Ellen shifted gears to full time parenting, becoming very involved at their school and the family's property in See Canyon.  A true lover of the beach, you can find Ellen in Avila cheering her girls on during Junior Guards, out running with her standard poodle, or taking in the sunset from Farmers Market or the pier. You can find Ellen's photo on the "Foundation's"  website.  
 
The Avila Beach Storytelling Night planning is moving full steam ahead. AND, you are now able to make your reservations to attend this FREE October 20th event by clicking here. It is first come first served, and seats are limited! I suspect the lure of a no-cost, first of its kind event here in Avila Beach will be a popular ticket, so act fast. Special appreciation to County Supervisor Adam Hill and our friends at Pacific Gas and Electric Company for their generous sponsorship of this event, which enables the "Foundation" to offer it to you at no charge. More details can be found on the event registration link. 
 
Our Campaign to fund Phase II of Avila Beach Public Art is also progressing nicely thanks to the generosity of nearly three dozen donors spurred by the opportunity to acquire limited edition "Proud Avilone" license plate frames. Thus far we have collected pledges or checks for more than $18,000 towards our $25,000 goal, which we hope to reach by the end of this year. Those of you readers who celebrated and have enjoyed the artfully adorned Avila Beach Lifeguard Towers will surely want to see what comes next. So please help us reach our goal by sending your check of any amount to Avila Beach Foundation - PO Box 297, Avila Beach, 93424.
 
The Bob Jones Trail Keepers - if you haven't heard, is an all-volunteer group interested in keeping the Bob Jones Pathway clean, beautiful, and safe.  The group helps SLO County Park Rangers maintain the popular and heavily used trail.  Group activities include public awareness regarding the ecosystem, litter patrol, assisting county ranger lead projects, shrub trimming, and removal of invasive plants.  The group meets the second Sunday of every month, 8:30 a.m. at the Bob Jones parking lot on Ontario Road.  If you are interested in participating, just show up ready to help.  According to Betty Hartig, you will repeatedly hear "thank you" from numerous trail users.
 
New Surveillance Cameras - are being installed at the Avila Beach Promenade, as reported by Sheriff's Department Commander Jim Vogue at the August meeting of AVAC. This step is being taken to help with public safety issues as the area is attracting an ever-increasing number of visitors. While I am saddened by further loss of our small town lifestyle, I guess it makes sense to use today's technology to combat today's issues.
 
Odds & Ends: If you are interested in participating, ECOSLO will be hosting its annual Coastal Clean-Up day on September 16th from 9:00a.m.-Noon including three Avila sites. For details visit www.ecoslo.org and click on the Coastal Clean-Up Day link. Time and again we receive inquiries about the status of the Avila Pier. For the record, it is Port San Luis Harbor District that manages the Pier, and they are in the process of establishing a non-profit organization to raise the money needed to rebuild the failing structure. Information on the project can be found on a new banner on the Pier that includes a timeline and directs people to the project website: http://portsanluis.com/2236/Avila-Pier.
 
That's it for now, fellow Avilones. See you at the beach!
 

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  Summer is racing past, and judging by the number of vehicles parked in the public lot, on the beach area streets and Avila Beach Drive along the golf course, I think it’s safe to say that this is one of our busiest seasons ever.  Though I haven’t heard much more than the usual concerns, one incident occurred earlier this summer that alarmed all of us – that being the gang related fight at a Friday night Farmer’s Market.  I won’t rehash the details, but do want to share with you the words of caution presented by Highway Patrol Sergeant John Johnson, as reported at the July meeting of the Avila Valley Advisory Council.  The four gang members were from Fresno, a town where Sgt. Johnson once worked.  According to him, “Bull Dogs gang members (not associated with Fresno State University) come to the Central Coast from Central Valley because word is out that Avila is a good place to go to the beach.  These gang members are identifiable by the paw print tattoos visible on their bodies.”  Sgt. Johnson says to not be concerned about sightings of individuals, but anyone witnessing even small groups of these Bull Dogs together should notify local law enforcement.

On a more positive note, I am delighted to report that donations towards launching the second phase of public art in Avila Beach are coming in regularly.  We have now collected pledges and contributions totaling just under $16,000.  With the goal of $25,000 in sight, more and more Avilones are dipping into their pocketbooks to help us reach the finish line.  Some, I believe, were lured in by the “reward” given all project donors – that being the limited edition Proud Avilone license plate frames we have been advertising.  If you haven’t yet seen this promotional opportunity, look for the flyer ad in this month’s print edition of the Avila Community News.  Any contribution amount is welcome.  When asked how much one should give, I simply state “let your conscientious be your guide.” 
 
I’ll grant you that.  Not really, it’s just my usual play on words to remind all interested parties that grant making season is now open at the “Foundation.”  Between now and September 11th, we are accepting funding applications from organizations seeking support for 2018 projects or services.  For information be sure to visit our website – www.avilabeachfoundation.org.  Now is a good time to offer some background for folks unaware of the “Foundation” grant making history, and/or for those new to our community.  The “Foundation” began awarding grants back in the year 2000, shortly after our agency was formally organized and given official non-profit status.  The grant dollars we issue each year come from the monies invested in a portfolio established on the strength of an endowment received as part of the UNOCAL beach clean-up and remediation settlement.  The original endowment was valued at $3.2 million, of which nearly $1 million was immediately awarded for some major infrastructure projects, like re-building the Community Center and purchasing heavy duty beach cleaning equipment to be used by the Harbor District.  That investment, and shortly thereafter the stock market dot.com bubble burst, saw the “Foundation” portfolio value drop by roughly 50%.  But given its mission, the “Foundation” continued to award community grants.  Over the next 16 years the portfolio experienced a nice recovery, then once again a precipitous decline during the 2007-09 financial market crash, followed by another stock market bounce-back over the past six or seven years.  Long story short, today our portfolio is worth roughly $2.2 million, and since inception we’ve awarded over 160 grants and helped distribute more than $3 million in our local community.  Not bad considering that one-time-only, initial $1 million withdrawal and two devastating stock market crashes.  Our goal is – as the Gladys Knight song goes -  to ” keep on keepin’ on.”
 
Got a story to tell?  Last month I informed you readers of our upcoming community special – the Avila Beach Storytellers event – scheduled for October 20th.  While it’s still too early to reserve your free seats (courtesy of County Supervisor Adam Hill and PG&E), it is NOT too soon to let us know if you have a story to tell about life in Avila dating back in history to the good old days at the beach.  We are now accepting interest from those who have tales they would like to share about family life going back to earlier generations, in front of a warm and enthusiastic audience at the Avila Beach Community Center.  We will probably have time for about one dozen stories of up to 5-minutes each.  There will also be a showing of the History of Avila film that premiered this past March as part of the San Luis Obispo Film Festival, the opportunity to visit the special mini-museum of old time Avila photos and artifacts on loan from some local Avilones and, of course, some delightful refresh-ments.  Any aspiring storytellers should email me at avilafoundation@gmail.com. 

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

 Greetings, fellow Avilones.  I hope that the early stages of summer are treating you well.  By now it seems all but certain that our popular beach town will experience one of the busiest seasons ever, as even days when the weather has been a bit cooler the place has been packed.  And if you are looking for ideal dates to get away from the crowds, I might suggest the weekend of July 7-9, as there are three consecutive days of special events at the golf course that will likely have a high impact on our community.
 
For those of you who did not attend the most recent “Envision Avila Workshop”, held on June 8th at the Community Center, let me say that it was an energetic exercise.  Facilitated by SLO County Planning staff we locals – though a somewhat smaller group than at the prior workshops – were tasked with a revolving brainstorming session.  After a brief introduction, we were asked to make stops at five tables for discussions on five different topics (called Table Themes).  Urged by the table bosses who told us all ideas are welcome, we shared our thoughts about (1) Future use of the Diablo Canyon Property. (2) Improving the beach area parking situation. (3) Changing of standards related to community events in our area. (4) Traffic control measures to improve public safety on San Luis Bay Drive and Avila Beach Road. (5) Alterations to vacation rental regulations.  I wandered from table to table and learned of the many ideas shared – some really good ones that seem very achievable, and some “pie in the sky” suggestions that will likely never see the light of day.  Nevertheless I walked away feeling quite impressed with the thoughtful dialogue among our fellow Avilones.  If you want to follow the planning and workshops information stream, I suggest visiting www.envisionavila.org.
 
Mark your calendars for the evening of October 20th!!!  Yep, that’s the scheduled date for the first ever “Avila Beach Storytellers Event” I mentioned in last month’s column. This event will be open to Avila Beach residents only, and thanks to the generosity of event co-sponsors Supervisor Adam Hill and our friends at PG&E will be free of charge.  We are still working on the details, but an evening of food and folly will be enjoyed by the lucky folks who reserve their seats on this first come first served basis.  Keep visiting the Foundation’s website – www.avilabeachfoundation.org - until you see the reservation instructions to be posted later this summer.
 
Help, I’ve been framed!  Modeling the newly minted, special edition license plate holder is Foundation Trustee Gary Maier, who is indeed “A Proud Avilone”.   In order to help us raise money towards the Avila Beach Public Art Project Phase II goal of $25,000 we are offering this limited quantity frame to anyone who donates to the cause.  If you want to help us bring more public art to our beachfront, and at the same time receive this fun gift, send your check to: Avila Beach Community Foundation, P.O. Box 297, Avila Beach, 93424.  Be sure to include contact information so we can arrange delivery of your frame(s).                                                           
 
Many thanks to each of you who helps make Avila Beach a very special place to live.  We thrive best when working together towards common goals. That’s it for now, fellow Avilones. See you at the beach!
 

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  With the unofficial beginning of summer in the rearview mirror – meaning Memorial Day Weekend -  we are now officially in hunker down mode for the next several months.  Since this column was due to the publisher prior to the MD Weekend, I can only speculate on what may have occurred.  I suspect it included massive traffic and parking congestion due to beach visitors and golf course event attendees, too much alcohol consumed, excess litter strewn about, and an exodus of Avila locals seeking peace and tranquility elsewhere.  Well, how did I do?  Unless the summer fog rolls in for an extended stay, the above scenario will likely be repeated on a pretty regular basis.  Enjoy what you can, endure the rest, and always remember how lucky we are to live in a place most others can only dream of.
 
Setting aside the cynical side of me, I submit to the rosier side of life to report some of the good that has come our way.  First, let me introduce you to the “Foundation’s” newest board member, Cyndy Lakowske, who resides in Kingfisher Canyon with husband Steve.  Relatively new to Avila Beach by way of Arroyo Grande and before that Colorado, the Lakowskes have settled in quite nicely.  Cyndy, a mother of two highly athletic and gifted offspring, is an accomplished distance runner who brings energy and a cheery personality to our community. You can find Cyndy’s photo and bio on the “Foundation’s” website.
 
I hope you readers aren’t too tired of my continued references to the magical murals adorning the Avila Beach Lifeguard Towers, because the good news just keeps on coming!  Last month I mentioned the boost given early efforts to launch Public Art Project II by donation pledges from County Supervisor Adam Hill and the dynamic duo of Sara and Boyd Horne.  Well, I’m stoked to report that Chevron has stepped up to match Supervisor Hill’s $5,000 challenge with a contribution in the same amount.  Yep, another five grand in the project coffers!!!  That brings our total to $12,000 – about one half of what we’ll need to bring the next round of public art to Avila.  Thank you, Chevron!!!  And, did you notice that our Towers project was accorded the 2017 New Times Best of SLO County “Runner Up” award for Best Public Art?  Congratulations to everyone involved in what was truly a group effort, highlighted by the artistry of Colleen Gnos.
 
Backing up a little bit to my first paragraph, I want to remind everyone that the “Foundation” established the AVILA ALERTS program several years ago to help inform subscribers in advance about upcoming activities that could make it more difficult to get to and from downtown Avila.  The idea first came about when I was attending a community meeting and heard folks wishing that some sort of notification method could be established - not just about special events, but also planned roadwork closures and delays in and out of Avila.  So, we answered the call and created AVILA ALERTS.  Now, it’s not perfect, because we rely upon “reporters” from the various organizations and agencies to give us a heads up notification about possible disruptions.  And once received we forward the information to ALERTS subscribers.  There is no cost to be on the email notification list, and you can be included simply by visiting our website and clicking on the AVILA ALERTS tab.
 
Continuing the theme of Everything Avila Beach, let me remind everyone to re-visit the Avila Beach Historical Tour free App, since more pages have been added since first introduced.  If you have not yet seen the Tour, it can be downloaded at no cost from the Google and iTunes App stores.  Also, by the time you read this column, the “Foundation” will have held its first planning meeting for the upcoming “Avila Beach Storytellers” event, which we anticipate coming your way sometime this fall.  While I’m getting a little in front of things at this moment, I want to extend an early invitation to any of you who might wish to share a tale or two about Avila past as you lived it.  We hope to capture stories from individuals whose family roots in Avila go back decades or generations, all told in front of what will surely be an attentive and appreciative audience.  Stay tuned for more details as they become available.  It’s time to scoot, so that’s it for now, fellow Avilones.  See you at the beach! 
 
 

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  Believe it or not, you now have in front of you the 100th Column I have written for the “Avila Community News”.  Yes, that makes this one a collector’s item!  Be sure you keep it, since someday it may be worth a fortune.  Okay – not so much.  But it is a personal milestone paralleling my journey with the Avila Beach Community Foundation, which began in January of 2009 – one month before that initial column in the “News”.  I must admit that it’s not easy to come up with the roughly 800 words I hope will be found reader worthy each month, but I do get enough positive feedback to keep me marching forward.   And when, might you ask, did the term “Avilone” first grace the pages of my column?  If you guessed January 2013 you would be correct.  It was in that issue that I offered several possible names for consideration, seeking feedback from you locals.  The winning choice – Avilone – became your official title in February.  So there you go – let history mark our place in the lore of Avila Beach.
 
I am pleased to say that we at the “Foundation” are still jumping for joy over glowing community response for the beautiful murals that have adorned the Avila Beach lifeguard towers since February.  As you know, we sent “News” subscribers an invitation to respond to a survey that included a section about supporting a second round of public art in Avila.  Thus far nearly two dozen people have expressed interest in contributing to the next project.  With that momentum in place, we will launch a formal campaign to secure those pledges, and build on the initial challenge promises of County Supervisor Adam Hill ($5,000) and the Sara Horne Art Fund ($2,000).  It’s not too late if you still want to complete the survey by visiting our website – www.avilabeachfoundation.org - and clicking on the link right below the “Foundation” banner.
 
Once again here to remind you what a valuable source of information I find the Avila Valley Advisory Council meetings to be, as last month we learned that; (1) in the works are two new streetlights to be installed at the Hwy 101 San Luis Bay Drive and Ontario Road exit that has for too long been a dangerous and accident laden intersection; (2) sometime shortly after Labor Day, County Public Works will be resurfacing several highly traveled and worn streets in downtown Avila Beach (not Avila Beach Drive), so expect some delays and re-routing come then. 
 
Another active and vigilant group – Concerned Citizens for Avila – included in their April e-newsletter an announcement about the third Envision Avila gathering, scheduled for June 8th, 6:30-8:00p.m. at the Avila Beach Community Center.  Each of these installments gives attendees the opportunity to chime in with their thoughts about the Avila Beach area plan, now undergoing discussions at the county level.   If you cannot make the meeting, I recommend visiting the website – http://www.envisionavila.org - for ongoing information and updates.  Also, any of you with children or grandchildren interested in enrolling in the very popular Avila Beach Junior Lifeguard Program, it’s not too late to register and participate in remaining tryouts scheduled for May 14th and May 21st from 2:00-4:00p.m. at Sinsheimer Pool in San Luis Obispo.  For more information about the Junior Lifeguard Program, please text or call Russ Edwards at (805-440-4621).
 
On a side note, it won’t be long before the next tourist season hits full stride here in Avila Beach.  Not only should we prepare for the usual throng of daily visitors, but also an increase in the number of vacation home renters.  One need not look far to see the ongoing construction of new properties designed to accommodate those seeking to enjoy at least for a while the sunny coastal climate and pristine beaches lifestyle we Avilones seek to protect.  And there will be no shortage of concerts and events at the golf course to present even more challenges to get in and around Avila.  I don’t know if there is much we can do, other than endure and be grateful that we get to live here year-round.  I am sure there is a breaking point, but evidently not yet reached.  So, let’s continue to celebrate our good fortune as fellow Avilones and make the best of these next few weeks before the wave hits. 

That’s it for now – see you at the beach!
 
 
 

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  I hardly know where to begin!  Since I last wrote, so much has come across my desk that the keys on my keyboard are smokin’ as I type.  First let me close the loop on my February trip through the Panama Canal, as promised in the March edition of the Avila Community News.  Though I was skeptical of taking the cruise when initially suggested by my wife, I must say the experience was well worth it.  Watching, and then being onboard one of several ships queued up for journey through the Canal made the trip a winner – one that I recommend for everyone.  Considering when this engineering marvel was built (over 100 years ago), the politics, the number or workers involved and lives lost, it is a truly amazing operation.
 
The bigger local happening, however, was the long-awaited unveiling and community celebration of the new public art installed on the Avila Beach lifeguard towers.  A project delayed by weather and illness finally came to fruition on a day calling for more rain.  It was February 18th and meant to happen after all.  The rain eased up, the clouds parted, the winds subsided and the air warmed, just as roughly 100 people arrived at the beach to cheer the new public art display.  With bullhorn in hand, artist Colleen Gnos provided the crowd with a pleasing description of the art, its meaning and place in Avila’s history.  Nothing but praise has come our way, both to the “Foundation” for initiating the project and to Colleen for so well capturing the spirit of Avila. 
 
Earlier that same day we hosted a gathering for about 50-60 people representing the partnerships and parties involved in the project.  There was so much positive energy flowing that during the recognition portion of the presentation County Supervisor Adam Hill stood up and pledged $5,000 in matching funds toward a second round of Avila Beach public art, followed immediately by a pledge of $2,000 from Sara and Boyd Horne.  Suffice it to say, the “Foundation” will use that energy to launch a community-wide campaign to secure other matching pledges and donations so we can continue the art initiative.  Our thanks again go to funding partners Chevron, PG&E and the Sara Horne Art Fund.  Likewise our gratitude to project partners ARTS Obispo and Port San Luis Harbor District.  And, of course, applause to artist Colleen Gnos and her crew!  PLEASE BE SURE TO  COMPLETE THE FUTURE PUBLIC ART SURVEY BY CLICKING HERE .  It will only take a minute or two and will be extremely helpful to our quest.  www.avilabeachfoundation.org.
 
Under the category of “you never know where a conversation might lead,” the “Foundation” has to express its delight in an event we sponsored as part of this year’s San Luis Obispo Film Festival.  When asked by Film Festival Director Wendy Eidson during our 2016 open grant application period for ideas I thought might be embraced by our board of directors, I casually suggested something along the lines of a video depicting Avila’s rich history might blend well with a future Avila History Storytelling event that has been percolating in my mind.  Wendy ran with that idea, found and hired a Cal Poly filmmaking student – Grace Tucker – willing to give it a go.  So, on Sunday, March 19th at the Fremont Theatre the short film “The Storied Past of Avila Beach” was screened in front of a crowd of at least 300 people (largely comprised of Avilones) – and followed by a discussion panel of longtime Avila residents who shared experiences and answered questions from the audience.  Personally, I feel that Grace did a wonderful job on producing the video, and panelists Archie McLaren, Betty Woody, Jack San Filippo, Rob Rossi and Pete Kelly provided some very entertaining and educational stories from their pasts.   Stay tuned for information about a follow-up event.
 
Reporting on Odds & Ends, have you seen the garden and welcome sign area at the entrance to Avila Beach?  After a wet season and explosion of weeds, the “Foundation” granted a request from Julie Andrews Scott for money to purchase and spread decorative and weed-arresting landscape products on the corner.  Thanks to Julie, Betty Woody and others in the crew, the overgrowth was removed, landscape products were installed, and now we once again have a lovely entrance. Well done.  The crew plans on gathering monthly to keep the area beautiful.  If you want to help, let me know and I’ll put you in touch Julie. Have you heard about the upcoming guided walk along the Bob Jones Trail scheduled for April 17th?  Visit the SLO County Recreation and Parks website for details.  Also, CAL Fire Battalion Chief Paul Lee reminds everyone that with the recent change in time, it’s a good idea to place new batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.  Once again I’ve used up all my allotted space, so that’s it for now, fellow Avilones.  See you at the beach!
 

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  By the time you read this column the month of March will have arrived, which for me always signals the annual re-birth of my optimism and spirits.  I shake myself from the short days of winter and get psyched up for daylight savings and major league baseball spring training.  Funny that how after all these years – okay decades – I still harbor the same feelings that I did as a youngster during this turn of the seasons.
 
Unfortunately, I had to submit this column to the publishers too soon to share with you my early February trip to the Panama Canal. Likewise and more importantly the Avila Beach Public Art celebration will have come and gone.  Of course, I am assuming that as I was away the rain did not once again delay the art installation on the Lifeguard Towers, causing another postponement of the community celebration, scheduled for February 18th.  I have great faith that we can share this occasion as part of the April Avila Community News.
 
As all you dedicated readers are well aware, the “Foundation” facilitates an annual grant-making process that results in us supporting a variety of Avila organizations and projects.  One of the grants we have issued for several years is to People’s Self Help Housing for their supportive housing services at Lachen Tara Apartments in Avila Beach.  I imagine many of you wonder why such an apartment building exists in Avila Beach, an area not known for affordable living.  Without getting into the deep historical matters surrounding the infamous oil seepage and ensuing clean-up, there were numerous people uprooted that lived in affordable sections of Avila that disappeared in the rebuilding.  Lachen Tara Apartments were built to help those affected an affordable opportunity to return to Avila, as well as room for some who work in lower paying jobs locally.
 
Lachen Tara is presently home to 28 households - including low-income farm workers, fishermen and hospitality employees, the formerly homeless, disabled, single mothers, former victims of domestic violence, and Avila Beach residents previously displaced.  17 of these household received professional clinical case management services in 2016 such as counseling, budgeting, job search assistance, crisis management and more.  It is these services that the “Foundation” helps pay for, and has been vital in helping tenants be more stable.  And for two years running we’ve kicked in an additional emergency fund to help tenants having trouble paying rising utility costs.  We hope you agree that our grant monies are being put to good use when it comes to this project.
 
While observing from arms-length some recent issues being addressed by the Port San Luis Harbor District, I feel compelled to chime in on two matters.  Both have to do with behaving irresponsibly and without consideration of others.  Word is that due to growing abuses, one of the few beaches where dogs off leash have been welcome is in jeopardy.  People from all over have flocked to that welcome section of Avila Beach, but too many simply refuse to pick up the poop left behind by their pooches.  Apparently it has become enough of a cleanliness and health issue that Port staff and commissioners are taking another look at existing ordinances.  The easiest solution is PICK UP AFTER YOUR DOG.  To their credit, the Port folks are exploring a variety of ways to improve the situation.  You may want to follow their progress by visiting www.portsanluis.com.  And since I mentioned “two matters”, the second is that the Port has announced that district fire rings on Olde Port Beach will become available the first Sunday in March.  There are some reasonably strict regulations to follow if you want to enjoy your fire on the beach, but here again it is important to exhibit responsible behavior so the benefit can remain in place.  Be sure to learn about the rules before dropping the match.
 
Okay, I’m through sounding like Mr. Enforcer.  So, on a more positive note, I wish to inform any interested Avila groups that SLO County is once again offering infrastructure/beautification grants, and has a fund of $100,000 available in 2017.  Applications are due by March 27th.  Information and forms can be found at       www.slocounty.ca.gov/admin/Resources.htm.  Keep in mind that competition for these funds is highly competitive, but if you have a project in mind that meets grant guidelines I say go for it!  Oops, I’ve used up all my allotted space, so that’s it for now, fellow Avilones.  See you at the beach!

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  I don’t know if the drought has come close to being over yet, but we’ve sure been hit with a ton of rain here in Avila and throughout the Central Coast.  Once again our area has been proven ill-equipped to avoid floods, mud and rock slides, power outages and a host of inconveniences.  I guess that’s the price we pay for experiencing mostly mild weather conditions compared to other parts of the country.  Worst of all for me has been the weekly cancellation of tennis matches and golf games.  But I will set aside that display of selfishness and thank the weather for finally drenching an area so badly in need.
 
Another unfortunate result of our constant January rain was being forced to postpone the looooong-awaited unveiling of the Avila Beach Public Art Project.  While Artist Colleen Gnos has completed the painted panels, the needed four consecutive days of dry conditions to install and seal the panels on the two Avila Beach Lifeguard Towers did not occur the weeks leading up to our grand celebration originally scheduled for January.  It is now "tentatively" rescheduled for Saturday, February 18th at 2:30pm weather permitting.  Of course the same situation could occur, so please visit our website prior to then for updates.
 
I am extremely happy to announce the arrival of a new donor-advised fund at the “Foundation”, established by the generosity of San Luis Bay Estates residents Steve and Cyndy Lakowske.  Titled the “Avila Beach Trails Improvements Fund”, it was established to support the development of new paths and/or the maintenance and improvement of current trails throughout the greater Avila Beach areas.  The Lakowske family consists of avid hikers and runners, and they invite other members of the community to contribute to this fund that can benefit countless locals and visitors alike.  If interested, email me at avilafoundation@gmail.com.
 
While on the topic of donor-advised funds, I encourage those of you readers with a philanthropic mindset to visit our website.  Take a look at our current donor-advised funds and see if any appeal to your generosity.  Or, you may want to consider establishing a donor-advised fund of your own. Information on how to begin can be found under the “Charitable Giving/Donor Advised Funds” tab at www.avilabeachfoundation.org. Avila Beach is your home, and may be enjoyed by your family and heirs for generations to come.  There are many things we can do to support the continuing vibrancy of our town if we team up to make them happen.  I hope you will join us in these efforts.
 
Speaking of “teaming up”, I would like to recognize the combined strategy of the “Foundation” to offer a matching grant challenge to the Avila Beach Civic Association, and the generosity of the individuals who helped meet that challenge to support the Avila Beach Community Center.  Part of the “Foundation’s” annual grant to the Civic Association included matching up to $2,500 for new members or for current members willing to “step up” to the next level of membership.  Thanks to the membership renewal letters that offered the challenge, twenty helpful “Avilones” sent in their checks and quickly exceeded the goal.  Congratulations all around!  This is not the first time that the “Foundation” has entered the arena of awarding matching grants, and each time has resulted in success.  It’s a terrific way for our local non-profit and public organizations to entice existing and new supporters with the opportunity to see their donations doubled in value. 
 
It is common for me to comment on, and invite you readers to attend or stay informed of, the Avila Valley Advisory Council (AVAC).  I attended their January meeting and witnessed one of the larger audiences in quite some time.  This usually occurs only when a “hot topic” or two are on the agenda.  On this evening we heard from quite a few passionate residents of downtown Avila whose lives continue to be disrupted by residential developments under construction, and from Squire Canyon property owners to challenge an upcoming lot split and possible impact on water access. I always feel compassion for our neighbors who seem to be fighting a never-ending and uphill battle to protect their ways of life, and often come to AVAC meetings where they can be heard by representatives from County Government, Public Planning, Public Works and local law enforcement.  Stop by some time and meet the people we all rely on.  Or visit the Council’s website at www.avac-avila.org and take a look around.  

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

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  Happy 2017 to you all – and I do hope it is a year filled with good health and happiness.  Many of us will, undoubtedly, face challenges and uncertainty – and for some anxiety over the selection of a new President who promises to shake things up at every level.  Change is often difficult, and how people deal with that varies greatly.  I was reminded recently that it is important to remain focused on today, and on those things we can control.  And to not stress over the future, unknowns and things we have no ability to control.  Of course, that’s the opposite of ME!  But I’ll do my best.
           
Speaking of change, the Avila Beach Community Foundation enters the new year with some comings and goings of our Trustees.  Outgoing President Rick Rowe, after two years in that role, is handing over the reins to Incoming President Lisa Ritterbuck, entering her second year on the board.  Retiring from our board is Carolyn Morton, who was elected as a Trustee in 2008 and served as Board Secretary from 2014-2016.  Stepping into the Secretary role is Lucinda Borchard, who first joined our board in 2011.  Rounding out or board is Vice President Michael Ginn, Treasurer Richard Zacky, Immediate Past President Rick Rowe, and Trustees Bev Aho, Saul Goldberg, Percy Jones, Gary Maier, Paul Prather and Brooke Salvini.  Also retiring from the board is one-time President Julian Varela, deciding that after being on leave of absence for one year, his mounting time away from Avila Beach is too demanding. I look forward to working with this dedicated group of Avilones who donate their time to help keep the Foundation on track, and as an essential community asset.  On a sad note, a former Foundation board member and valued member of the community – Ted Ivarie - passed away in December.  Ted was the true definition of a “gentleman and scholar”, and will be missed.  Rest in peace, my friend.

Yet still on the topic of “change”, to those of you who receive by mail a copy of the Avila Community News, be it known that longtime publisher TJA Advertising has sold the publication to Simply Clear Marketing and Media of San Luis Obispo.  “Simply Clear” is no stranger to  the  local print media arena, since they are producers of the popular Tolosa Press, which publishes and distributes three newspapers along the Central Coast twice each month.  After fifteen years John Sorgenfrei, owner of TJA, decided it was time to sell Avila News and focus on other areas of his business.  Fortunately for us, the switch should be seamless and could lead to new and exciting possibilities.  We thank John and his staff for birthing and raising the Avila Community News for all these years, and we welcome the opportunity to forge a fruitful relationship with Bret Colhouer and his staff at “Simply Clear”.   
                 
If you haven’t yet marked your calendars, please do so now!  On January 14th, at 3:00p.m., you will want to make your way down to the beach to be among the first to celebrate the unveiling of the new Avila Beach Public Art Project.  Yes, I’ve been writing about this FOREVER, but the time has finally arrived.  Renowned Artist Colleen Gnos is preparing to install the new murals on the two Lifeguard Towers, which for the winter months have been moved close to the sea walls on both sides of the Pier.  Our celebration gathering will along the railing near the Old Custom House, and will include a chance to meet Colleen, learn about the historic-based artwork, and meet others responsible for this long-awaited project. 

With an eye peering forward, “Foundation” trustees and staff will be convening later this spring for our bi-annual organizational planning retreat.  We do this on a regular basis to review the recent past, and to strategize the coming two years ahead.  One of the most important items we discuss is that of defining future community engagement or enrichment activities that could be of interest to our fellow Avilones.  It is just these types of discussions that have resulted in previous “Foundation” hosted town hall forums, healthy living and online security seminars, the Avila Albacore Feed and Avila Apple Festival, our current Avila Beach Public Art Project, the community matching gifts initiative, an Avila History and Heritage event, several online community interest surveys, and the 2016 Community Focus Group Workshop.  In the past we have counted on the input and feedback provided by those who live and work in Avila Beach to help us shape our plans.  If you have any ideas you would like us to consider, please feel free to email me at avilafoundation@gmail.com.

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

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  One of the odd things about writing a monthly column is how much time elapses and how many things happen between publications.  It seems like just yesterday that I was espousing about summer in Avila and all that goes with it.  Then suddenly it’s about the holiday season and upcoming new year.  Don’t get me wrong – I’m happy that my writing assignment is for only once each month, and I suspect you readers are, too.

Okay, now that I’ve wasted a precious paragraph of my limited space, it’s on to business.  First off, let me report that the “Foundation” Board of Trustees has made its selections for 2017 grant recipients.  At our November meeting, twelve grants were awarded, totaling just under $55,000.  Beneficiaries for the coming year include the Central Coast Aquarium, Avila Beach Civic Association, Cancer Well-Fit, Point San Luis Lighthouse Keepers, Avila Beach Jr. Lifeguards Program, Achievement House, People’s Self Help Housing, Port San Luis Harbor District, and the San Luis Obispo Film Festival.  Plus, we will continue to support the Free Avila Trolley and P.O. Box delivery of the Avila/Pismo Community News.  For details about grant recipients, feel free to visit our website – www.avilabeachfoundation.org.
             
You may recall that last month I provided an update on the long-awaited public art project – that being the historic and future rendition, painted panels being affixed to the Avila Beach Lifeguard towers.  We now have a date on the books that you will want to add to your calendar.  On January 14th at 3:00 p.m., there will be an unveiling celebration at the beach.  In preparation for the installation, the towers have been moved closer to the beach railing, so just look for the towers and crowd when you arrive.  Artist Colleen Gnos is working diligently and coming down the home stretch.  I believe you will be delighted with the final product.
             
Next on the agenda, I offer you a recap of a meeting that took place on October 27th at the Community Center.  Most of you are aware that SLO County is in the early stages of updating the area’s general plan, and that of Avila Beach (which has been a hot topic for quite some time).  At the “Envision Avila” meeting, which was hosted by Concerned Citizens of Avila and attended 80+ members of the community, SLO County Planning staff presented an update of progress being made, timelines and tasks remaining.  Among the more interesting elements of the presentation was a live survey conducted that night – using “clicker” technology (don’t know if that’s really a term) with instant results feedback.  The audience was posed four questions along with multiple choices – such as (1) “If you had to choose your favorite thing about Avila it would be. (2) “Select two adjectives that describe Avila”. And (3) “What two community features are most important to you”.  Plus, there was a Visioning Exercise whereby three statements were presented, and attendees were asked to choose which statement most matches their views.  And now that I’ve tantalized you, I’m sure you wish to learn the outcome of the live survey.  So, visit www.envisionavila.org to see the results and all related to the Avila Plan.  You’ll have to do some navigating to find the live survey results, so don’t give up.  Click on the “Meetings” tab near the top of the homepage, then look left, scroll down a bit to find “Documents from Meeting”, then click on “Final Presentation and Information” tabs.  Well-deserved kudos go to Concerned Citizens of Avila for their efforts to keep us in the loop.  To stay engaged, visit their website – www.concernedcitizens4avila.org.
             
Next, it is with great appreciation that I announce a recent grant of $5,000 awarded to the “Foundation” from Chevron in recognition of our work in the community.  Chevron has supported our efforts in several ways over the years by sponsoring some of our events, workshops and community initiatives.  This $5,000 grant is earmarked for the “Foundation’s” Emerging Needs and Opportunities Fund – an account we established years ago that enables us to respond to various requests for financial support that emerge in between our annual grant making season.  Thank you, Chevron for being a valued community partner!
             
By the way, have you remembered to change the batteries in your smoke alarms, and to install carbon monoxide detectors?  At the November meeting of the Avila Valley Advisory Council, Cal Fire Battalion Chief Paul Lee reminded us that the seasonal changes in daylight savings each year are the perfect times to complete these tasks.  Be safe!  And last, but never least, comes my annual reminder to all Avilones that we are so very fortunate to have the services of our local post office.  So, be sure to always purchase your postage and ship your packages – especially during the holiday season - at our local outlet.  Without sufficient revenue, there is no guarantee that the Avila Post Office will always be here.  And it shouldn’t be left unsaid just how lucky we are to have such a friendly and competent staff at the post office (Mary, Julie and Cindy).  Thanks for all you do! 

That’s it for now, fellow Avilones.  Have a wonderful Christmas, Hanukkah, or whatever it is you celebrate this time of the year.  See you at the beach!