Greetings, fellow Avilones.  Summer is now in our rearview mirror, and October marks the beginning of 2020’s final quarter.  What a strange year it has been thus far - one we would find difficult to compare to any others in the recent or distant past.  Since it seems like we have been hit by the “perfect storm”, I looked up the term’s official definition, which reads in part: “A perfect storm is an event in which a rare combination of circumstances drastically aggravates the event.” Though commonly used for meteorological phenomena, “perfect storm” seems quite applicable to the state of our country as it is today.

Let us review this rare combination of circumstances.  A pandemic that has brought the world to its knees.  An economy being pummeled.  Millions of people out of work.  Most schools functioning in a virtual setting.  Social injustices and unrest occurring at alarming levels.  Fires devastating the west coast.  More southeast hurricanes. The rock-steady and beloved U.S. Postal Service under attack.  A highly contentious presidential election year coupled with a deeply divided populace.  OMG – what more can happen!!!

In light of all the madness, I have decided to inject some light humor into these dark times by seeking some sage advice as in the old days of “Dear Abby,” by introducing a column I will call “Dear Avilone.”  I apologize in advance if my attempt at levity offends anyone or comes off as callous.   So here it goes:

Dear “Avilone”.  I have been self-isolating for so long I’m not sure if it will be safe to go out in public ever again.  What shall I do? (From: Home Alone).

Dear “Home Alone”.  When the time to venture out again arrives, go to the nearest movie theater, lower your mask, share a bag of popcorn with the stranger sitting closest to you, and see if you get sick.

Dear “Avilone”.   When a COVID-19 vaccine receives governmental approval, should I be among the first to get inoculated? (From: Shot in the Dark)

Dear “Shot in the Dark”.  Why not?  As a renowned presidential candidate once asked, “what do you have to lose?”

Dear “Avilone”.  I stopped smoking cigarettes when I moved to California three years ago, but my nerves are frayed so I’m thinking about buying a pack and lighting up.  Your thoughts?  (From: Match Mate)

Dear “Match Mate”.  No need to buy cigarettes to get your smoke-on at this time.  Since you live in California amid this fire season, just step outside and take a deep breath.

Dear “Avilone”.  I sure miss going on cruises.  When will I again be able to enjoy the buffets, bars and casinos while floating away the days in grand luxury?  (From: Packem-in)

Dear “Packem-in”.  It could be a long time until you can cruise again, so fill your bathtub, select a variety of foods from your pantry, a bottle of wine from the fridge, grab a deck of playing cards, and go at it.

I hope you found the advice column useful (NOT), or at least a bit funny (FOR SURE).  For me, writing it was cathartic, but not likely to appear again – unless by popular demand.  I wish I had more important things to write about this month, but the “Foundation” remains in a brief lull as so many of the organizations we support are still on hiatus.  We are usually deep into our annual grant-making season, but as I reported last month the process has been altered and eased this time around in consideration of current circumstances. 

In closing, I want to offer a heartfelt tip of the cap to the folks who, during this busy summer past, volunteered to help keep our beach areas free of litter after high volume tourist visits.  You so deftly augmented the efforts of County employees unable to keep up with the demand.  THANK YOU ONE AND ALL! 

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

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  I begin this month’s column with a heavy heart.  I imagine all of you are by now aware of the death of SLO County District 3 Supervisor Adam Hill.  Though the news is about a month old, Adam’s passing leaves me sad on both a personal and professional level.  Over the past eleven years, Supervisor Hill had been a consistent and generous supporter of numerous “Foundation” events, projects and programs to benefit Avila Beach.  The list is long, and highlighted by monetary gifts to help bring public art to Avila for all to enjoy.  The man I knew was a strong advocate for the homeless and those suffering from mental health issues.  Politics can be ugly and divisive, casting opponents with opposing view as villains.  Some in office vie for power, some for personal gain, and some for a platform to advance causes of special interest.  I believe Adam will be best remembered as a champion of the underserved and most needy members of society.

As we approach the end of the “dog days of summer”, I hope we can look back at this period in our lives and use what we have experienced and learned to a future advantage.  We at the “Foundation” have learned and embraced the importance of being flexible when it comes to our role of supporting local interests.  At the July meeting of our Board of Trustees it was decided to alter for this year our usual grant-making procedures.   Our normal application and selection process, which entails a comprehensive and competitive approach to ensure a level playing field, will be set aside for this next round of grant-making due to the uncertain status of partner agencies and staff.  In its place, all eligible agencies that received grants in 2020 will automatically receive the same amount for 2021 without having to go through a competitive process, if or when they are open for business.  Additionally, the amounts granted can be used for whatever purposes the recipient agencies deem to be most vital to their operations, instead of for a specific project or program.

At the same board meeting, we adopted the following policy statement in reaction to current economic challenges:
 
The Avila Beach Community Foundation, in operation since 1998, exists to enhance life in the Avila Beach communities for all who reside in, work in, or visit our town.  Since the year 2000, the “Foundation” has annually awarded grants to local non-profit organizations that provide community enrichment programs/projects/services that align with the “Foundation’s” mission.  In times of unanticipated economic stress, such as now being experienced locally and globally, the “Foundation” will attempt, when possible, to extend assistance in situations that threaten the welfare of non-profit, community or public agencies that provide core services to humans or wildlife in the Avila Beach communities.  Our infrastructure and resources are extremely limited, thus requests for assistance will be addressed on a case by case basis as received.  For agencies in need of assistance, it is highly recommended that they also reach out to sources with greater capacity, such as the Community Foundation of San Luis Obispo County, or the United Way of San Luis Obispo County.  For individuals who are having difficulty meeting their basic needs, numerous organizations throughout the central coast exist to provide assistance.   For comprehensive information about the services available, dial the United Way 24-hour information line: “211”, or search online:  211 United Way of San Luis Obispo County.
 
As you can see, the “Foundation” stands ready to assist our local non-profits to the best of our ability during this critical time.  We likewise encourage our local neighbors to offer their support and generosity to help preserve an important link to the history and welfare of Avila Beach.  Speaking of generous neighbors, you may recall my plea last month for a donor “Angel” willing to cover the $250 insurance deductible needed toward replacement costs of the public art mural panel stolen from one of the Avila Lifeguard Towers last winter.  Quickly coming to the rescue was a fellow Avilone family that wishes to remain anonymous.  We are most appreciative of their generosity and swift action.  I also want to thank and recognize three folks – Cyndy Lakowske, Karen Blue and Kim Jeffrey - who have volunteered to help with upkeep of the Central Coast Aquarium art panels once plans are finalized by artist Colleen Gnos. 

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

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  I trust you are making the best of this summer, what with all the disruptions that have dominated our lives.  How is it possible for days and weeks to drag on, yet rush by at the same time?  Huh?  Well, it sometimes feels like just yesterday that our country first entered shutdown mode, and sometimes it feels like eons ago.  It also seems that each day plods along so painfully slow as we await and yearn for a return to normalcy.   For many taking the road of caution, the world has shrunk to what can be safely done within the confines of our community.  Others more prone to risk-taking have ventured into other parts of the state and country out of boredom and desire to go about their lives as accustomed.  We all seek out pleasure in whichever ways we can despite any challenges we face. 

My role at the “Foundation” has taken on an altered flavor this year.  Ordinarily mid-summer would be the beginning of our grant-making season, which involves developing the new grant application, circulating the request for proposals, and preparing for all the processes that go along with it between now and December.  Lots of moving parts that typically proceed smoothly.  But now, things are different.  Several of our current agency and project grantees have been closed for business, or have greatly altered their services, resulting in deviations from what the “Foundation” had funded for this year.  We have been monitoring their status and, in some cases, have modified grant awards to best enable the continuation or return to business for said agencies.  At question is how many of our grantees will be back in operation in time to adhere to deadlines to apply for 2021 funding, and how we address the current and pending needs.  For example, the Central Coast Aquarium and Avila Beach Community Center remain closed, with no certain date of re-opening.  The Avila Trolley sits idle, the Junior Lifeguards program is operating a scaled-down version of its camp, Operation Surf may or may not be able to run their scheduled October camp, and Bellevue-Santa Fe School has been out of touch since classes were canceled.  The PathPoint summer beach area clean-up project launched on July 13th, but temporarily utilizing agency staff rather than program clients until given approval by the State.  Special thanks to project co-sponsors Chevron and SLO County Supervisor Adam Hill.  Decisions on how to deal with our next round of grant making procedures will be the primary discussion at the “Foundation’s” July 23rd Board of Trustees meeting.

As Avila Beach remains an active favorite of locals and visitors alike, there are many people behind the scenes doing things to keep it special.  Some “shout-outs” are in order, so please join me in recognizing a few.  First, how can we be anything but awed by the great job done by our local firefighters called to action during the June fires in Avila and Shell Beach?  As flames consumed 100s of acres, amazingly not one structure succumbed, thanks to the heroic efforts of Cal Fire and other central coast fire stations.  And let’s say thanks to local resident Bev Aho for her work advocating for the removal of excess trash at the beach and park, and for picking up after the irresponsible littering by some who abuse our areas for their pleasure.  And how about appreciation to Saul Goldberg and his team for replacing all the educational signs along the Bob Jones Trail that many have enjoyed.  Thanks also to Rangers Chuck Woodard and Tim Fees from SLO County Parks who, after being recruited by Julie Andrews-Scott, and on their own off duty time, removed the weeds at the corner of San Miguel Street & Avila Beach Drive by the Avila Beach welcome sign.  If you readers know of others in our community deserving of a “shout-out”, please let me know.
 
And now, for the BIG news of the day!  After months of trading phone calls, emails, and dealing with the insurance company, we finally received word that the Arts Obispo claim to replace the stolen Avila Beach Lifeguard Tower mural panel was approved.  Sheesh, it’s been a long seven months since the discovery of the theft, but no one ever said dealing with insurance claims was easy.  We do, however, have to come up with the $250 deductible to fully fund production and installation of the replacement panel.  Anyone out there want to cover that cost and be the funding “Angel”? 
 
On another Avila Beach public artwork matter, an issue has popped up that we did not anticipate.  By now you have all seen the second public art project affixed to the wall outside of the Central Coast Aquarium.  Due to ongoing area watering spray, Aquarium staff were periodically wiping down the surface of the mural panels to keep them in pristine condition.  Lo and behold the Aquarium remains closed, thus spots are building up and need some regular attention.  Artist Colleen Gnos did previously discover a solvent that nicely does the job, but we may require a willing volunteer to do some spot cleaning as needed.  If you have the interest and some extra time on your hands, please let me know by emailing rickinavila@yahoo.com.  Should no volunteer(s) step up, someone might have to be hired to do the work.  The “Foundation” does maintain a Public Art Development and Preservation Fund, so if you are interested in donating to that fund, please send your check to:  Avila Beach Community Foundation, PO Box 297, Avila Beach, 93424. 
 
Lastly, if you have 17 minutes to spare and some popcorn to microwave, how about visiting for the first time, or again, the video titled “Storied Past of Avila Beach”?  It’s very interesting and can be found at:  http://www.avilabeachfoundation.org/avila-historical-film--photo-gallery.html.  

​That’s it for now, fellow Avilones.  See you at the beach.
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​Complete the Envision Avila Workshop Survey Below!
Deadline to Complete Survey is Monday, August 17th
Estimated time: 15-20 minutes

As part of the Envision Avila and the Avila Community Plan Update, the County of San Luis Obispo has organized this important survey to gather feedback and ideas on potential land use changes and regulations being considered for the Avila Community Plan update. Thank you for making your voice heard!

Tips for navigating the survey:
- Use your cursor to click anywhere in the left side of the survey to "activate"
- Use your Page Up/Page Down and Up/Down arrow keys to move within the survey to review all information OR click on the left side buttons under the home icon to move directly to each of the survey sections
- There are five sections of survey questions (use the scroll bar to see all questions and click Submit after each section):
1. Avila Point Land Use
2. Cave Landing Land Use
3. Town of Avila Beach
4. General Land Use Suggestions
5. Vacation Rentals

Complete Survey Now!

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  It’s July and things are really heating up – not just the temperature here in Avila, but the social climate in our country and abroad.  As our temporarily sleepy beach town has been emerging from a four-month hibernation due to the pandemic, the world is changing all around us.  Early last month the conversation diverged from talk of the health crisis and economic shutdown to societal unrest that has reached every corner of our nation and many parts of western civilization.  While it’s been difficult for me to focus on Avila Beach during the “shelter in place” period, followed by the ensuing nationwide protests about police brutality, I’ve recently attempted to keep my eyes on the local prize by maintaining a one-week diary, which I now share part of with you.

Dear Diary.  Today is June 8th and started with an ordinary trip to my office to gather some materials to take back home in preparation for tonight’s Avila Valley Advisory Council “Zoom” meeting.  Dang, I hate this kind of impersonal gathering and fear the day when more group meeting time is spent online than in-person.  “Zoom” did not work out too well for me tonight, as it took me five attempts to join in, making me 20 minutes late.  When I was finally in and it was my turn to speak, my audio didn’t work even though my laptop mic was engaged.  Plus, my screen froze up several times – both audio and visual – making the entire experience a bummer. 

Dear Diary.  Today is June 9th and Avila wakes up to yet another heat wave.  This is the third or fourth one this year already, with more likely to come.  Am I mistaken, or does this feel like an acceleration of global warming?  As I drove to my office at the community center, I watched my vehicle’s outside temperature gauge reach 95 degrees.  It’s only mid-morning and parked cars are already lining both sides of Avila Beach Drive far along the golf course.  I turn left onto San Miguel Street and can see each side of the street packed with cars, as is the public parking lot – not a spot to be found.  A song recorded by Joni Mitchell in 1970 popped into my mind, titled “Big Yellow Taxi.”  I imagine many of you readers remember a portion of the lyrics that go – “Don’t it always seem to go that you don’t know what you’ve got ‘til it’s gone - they paved paradise and put up a parking lot.”  Of course, there is more to Avila Beach than a parking lot, but all the vehicles and new construction throughout dot the landscape and sometimes overshadow the beautiful ocean.  Yep, “the times they are changin’,” lyrics penned by another legendary singer, Bob Dylan.

Dear Diary.  Today is June 10th, and the heatwave is still here.  93 degrees as I round the bend into town.  Fewer cars along the road, and still some open spots in the parking lot at noon.  Could it be that all the beachgoers were sunburned to a crisp yesterday and had to stay home applying aloe?  I go about some business – first to renew our computer files cloud back-up subscription.  I ran into some difficulties with the online process, so attempted to reach the company’s customer service via telephone.  No luck there – just an apologetic voice message explaining that all customer service employees are working at home and presently providing only online help.  Argh!  After resolving the issue on my own – yay for me – I stepped away from my computer to stretch my legs outside at 3:00 pm.  Forget what I said earlier about fewer beachgoers today – the streets and parking lot are again congested, but still slightly less than yesterday.  On the plus side, a nice breeze has arrived at the waterfront, cooling things down a bit.  On the worrisome side, of the myriad people gathering around the Promenade and shops open for business, hardly any physical distancing or wearing of masks are to be seen.  It’s as if the pandemic never existed.

Dear Diary.  Today is June 11th.  The heatwave is gone and the beach parking lot is only about two thirds full at 1:00 pm.  Received some good news this morning that the Avila Bay Athletic Club is reopening tomorrow.  Most Club activities and services will resume, but many with restrictions and preventive measures in place.  Members are being asked to participate in health and cleanliness efforts like never before, but it sure beats the previous lockdown.  More announcements about reopening local businesses and activities are expected in the coming days.  I spoke with Julie Andrews-Scott, the organizer of Avila’s Friday Night Farmers’ Market, and was told by her that she and her vendors are ready to go once given the thumbs up from the powers that be. 

Okay, this diary stuff is getting old.  I never before maintained one, but found some inspiration this week to do so.  We are all experiencing unusual challenges and exploring emotions on matters out of the ordinary.  How we emerge from these times and the lessons we learn will likely have long-lasting implications.  For those of us old enough to have lived through the Viet Nam war and the civil rights movement, what’s happening today is not new, but the reactions and discussions are taking place on a much greater magnitude, due largely to social media and the internet.  As for the younger generations, the torch is now being passed, and it is up to them to keep our country moving forward, much as we old-timers did in decades past, and in some cases still do so today. 

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

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  Once again, I must begin my column by stating that it is being written two weeks before distribution to meet publisher deadlines.  So, with the fluid nature of current events, things may have changed during the time lag.  Let’s kick it off with some of my Avila-related observations, and end with how the Foundation is addressing the current status/needs of our grantees.  
 
Several times over the past few weeks I’ve meandered down the street from my office at the Community Center to the beachfront to observe the goings on.  For the most part, the number of people using the beach has been quite sparse, though the two heat waves during late April and early May resulted in larger crowds.  I have witnessed folks sunbathing on the sand in small groups, walking or jogging along the water’s edge, and mostly kids playing in the ocean.  Others have been hanging around the Promenade area watching the waves crash, or enjoying refreshments purchased at the handful of local establishments open for takeout.  It was a somewhat different scene during the aforementioned temperature spikes.  More activities on the beach, more families with “toys”, more like what is usual for this time of year.  One problem during those spikes was parking.  Spots along the oceanside of Front Street were cordoned off, and the public parking lot remained closed – both as efforts by the Harbor District to minimize beach attendance.  So, some eager visitors resorted to parking on neighborhood streets, a common occurrence during popular seasons that creates difficulties for our full-time downtown residents.  Just one more unintended consequence as the by-product of a good idea.
 
Mother's Day weekend sort of opened the Avila floodgates, especially on that Sunday.  Many people were lounging on the sand, despite a day mostly devoid of sun and warm temperatures, and the presence of "no sitting" signs leading into town and posted at the beach entrances.  Earlier that week a few more Avila establishments opened for takeout, including Hula Hut and Ocean Grill, joining a handful of other businesses that have been open for a longer period.  Slowly, a little more life is being injected into our town.  On Monday, May 11th, the Avila Bay Athletic Club became open for tennis, but not the other facilities there, though that may have changed before this column was published.  The golf course has been busier than normal, and I must admit it is nice for us golfers to not have to compete with the array of special events and concerts usually there this time of year.  The highly popular Avila Farmer's Market remains in limbo and will, along with other large gatherings, likely be one of the last activities to be given the green light.  The free Avila Trolley, which is usually rolling by now, remains parked until further notice.  For the last two months the Bob Jones Trail has been more crowded than ever with people needing to get out and exercise in one of the few allowable ways.
 
A semblance of the life we know on the Central Coast is creeping back, as it is in other places in California and the nation.  Whether we citizens become too lax to the continued health threat is a gamble that may or may not result in more sickness and death.  How well SLO County contains the virus, and how prepared our medical facilities are to deal with a potential influx in cases, will determine the local path forward.  Personally, I look forward to once again going to the movies, out to dinner, swimming and working out at the Avila Bay Club, and being able to shop and socialize without the requisite 6 foot spacing and wearing of masks that remind me of Zorro and the Lone Ranger.  Most of all, I miss being among my friends and colleagues.
 
Now, onto the business of the Foundation.  We continue to operate during this unfortunate economic and health crisis.  We are still positioned to honor the grants awarded to agency recipients selected for funding since the monies so designated were removed from our investment portfolio at the beginning of the year and placed into a cash account to protect those sums.  At this point we have been notified by some of our grant recipient agencies that they have temporarily shut down operations, or in other cases projects or programs funded by the Foundation are currently on hold.  We are in the process of collecting information about the status of all of our grantees to learn of their plans and needs moving forward, so the Foundation can consider reassigning the designated grants for other purposes to help our agency partners resume services when appropriate.  Stay tuned. 

That’s it for now, fellow Avilones.  I hope to see you at the beach sometime soon!

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  As life remains in limbo for many of us – at least it is as I write this column before the April 15th    deadline - the uncertainty of what the future holds is still on most minds.  A local dose of harsh reality struck in early April.  While driving to the office on 4/8, the first alarming thing I noticed was the closure of the road leading to Pirate’s Cove, then I encountered signs on the usual avenues into town that read “Local Traffic Only”.    It made me wonder, did that mean Avila Beach residents only were welcome?  Were Avila Valley or other SLO County residents on the “stay out” list?  Then I learned that even the pay for play parking lot was closed during the day – Wow!  I shortly thereafter came to realize that these closures were efforts to further encourage social distancing, even though strolling along the beach seemed to be one of the few outdoor recreations still lawful.  Turns out that there are still too many people gathering in groups and not maintaining the advisable safe distancing, in spite of the many warnings we absorb in the news every day.
 
Ironically, last month a portion of my column was a reminder that Avila’s busy season was rapidly approaching, and that we’d better gear up for the usual onslaught of humanity.  I’m sure that many Avilones dread the yearly disruption to a life here that was, in eras past, more tranquil.  Avila was never a private beach, but it was manageable.  Well, this past month we’ve had one of those “be careful what you wish for” experiences.   Businesses are closed, people are hunkered down in “shelter in place” mode, and Avila looks very much like a ghost town – at least it did when I walked through the Promenade that very day in early April.  The vibrancy is gone, the doors are shut, and spirits are low.  Missing over the Easter holiday were the happy faces of families out for a day at the beach.  No snow cones, hot dogs, ice cream, music or other ocean-related aromas, sounds and sights that tickle our senses.  It’s the flip side of what the community has become in recent years.   This situation could easily extend into and through the summer months.  When will the doors open again?  What will Avila Beach become moving forward?  I guess only time will tell.
 
Bear with me.  Not a lot happening in Avila, so there isn’t much I can report about local topics as is my usual practice.   So, I am commandeering my space to share some random thoughts that have been occupying my head of late.  I won’t be offended if you stop reading at this point, since you might not care what I have to say.  Never-the-less, here we go.  I can’t help but wonder if our country (ergo the world) will undergo dramatic and fundamental changes when we emerge from the present crisis.  Look what happened after the 9/11 attacks.  Airline and other forms of travel transformed overnight, and have only gotten worse.  Body and baggage searches while we are herded like cattle going to slaughter really sucks.  Other drastic security measures popped up all over the place, and have methodically spread into so many aspects of our lives. 
 
Historic moments going back to the Great Depression have served as launching pads for societal change – some good and some not so good.  How will 2020 be defined, and what adjustments will be made?  Will our federal administrative and health agencies become better prepared for the next crisis?  Will our attention to populations at risk (the unemployed, homeless individuals, the frail elderly and those disabled) who are now a focus become the new normal, or just a passing thing?  Will families have a greater and permanent appreciation of teachers and childcare workers who ordinarily spend so much time stewarding their kids?  How about those in the hospitality industries, healthcare workers, first responders, those who clean or maintain our homes, delivery persons, retail workers, etc. who must risk exposure while continuing to do their essential jobs?  All are now being applauded, but will they again be forgotten once the crisis passes?  Does $15 per hour minimum pay – or better yet a “living wage” - and health insurance for those who toil at demanding jobs for stingy compensation in order to serve us seem so overly generous after all?  Will the number of people who work at home multiply in greater numbers than before?  Will online education ultimately replace classrooms?  Will movie theaters ever again be filled with people sitting inches away from one another, eager to see the next blockbuster film while munching on popcorn?  Will takeout and meal deliveries rule the day, thus keeping us further tethered to our homes?  How many generations will spawn until in-person human contact is but a memory?  This is the sort of stuff that keeps me up at night.  Okay. I’m done.  I’ve gotten that off my chest……LOL.  Thanks for indulging me.
 
Last but not least, I want to remind folks that there are a number of non-profit agencies in SLO County providing a vital aid for those having difficulty meeting their basic needs.  These agencies are being barraged with calls for help, and all are experiencing insufficient funding.  If you are in the position to donate money or time, I recommend calling the United Way of SLO County at 805-541-1234, or dial “211” to learn about numerous opportunities to chip in locally. 

That’s it for now, fellow Avilones.  See you at the beach one day soon, I hope!  I may even hug you if we can get closer than 6 ft. apart.

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Want to Learn More About Avila Beach's History?

Some of you may recall that several years ago the "Foundation" funded a grant for the creation of the Avila Beach Historical Tour App.  Learn more about Avila Beach's colorful history by using either Apple App Store or Android App on Google Play and downloading the FREE Avila Beach Historical Tour App.
​

Preface:  Before you scroll down and read the final paragraphs of this column, I want to say they were written and submitted for the print publication – Avila Beach Life – in time for the March 15th deadline.  It’s remarkable that so much has changed since that time.  Life as we knew it came to a grinding halt, and perhaps the things I wrote about below a couple of weeks ago seem far less important than they did then.  What is occurring here and elsewhere has brought out the best in people, and some of the worst in people.  When the dust settles and things return to normal, social scientists will have a field day studying all that took place.  I could write much about what I consider to be some of the worst behaviors, but will abstain from being judgmental for the moment.  Rather, I want to commend all the best behaviors by those who have stepped up to make a difference.  Those phone calls to our more elderly and frail neighbors to check on their well-being, picking up some groceries for folks who have difficulty getting to the store, being responsible about maintaining social distance, throwing a few extra dollars in tips to the hourly wage employees still working to serve us.  These and many more caring deeds are playing out every day, and are reported on by social and mainstream media outlets alike.  For the most part, we are social beings not comfortable in isolation.  Just walking around my neighborhood has connected me with neighbors I rarely see otherwise.  A wave of the hand and smile are reassuring gestures that let us know we are not alone.  No one knows what the aftermath of this health and economic crisis will look like.  But let’s try to be the “best of us” now and then.  Let’s look out for one another today to make for a better tomorrow.
.           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .           .
 
Greetings, fellow Avilones. It’s been a while since our country – indeed the entire world – has faced an economic crisis of such magnitude.  The impact is far and wide, and may be so for months (maybe years) to come.  Affected are individuals and businesses across the spectrum, be it due to tumbling stock values or a tightening of consumer belts.  I bring this up because the stock market does, and will, play a role in the amount of money foundations of all sizes have to invest in their communities. This is reminiscent of the 2007-08 financial market meltdown, when many/most private and community foundations curtailed grant making in an effort to reduce the impact of falling portfolio holdings.  The Avila Beach Community Foundation kept grant making in the picture during that period of turmoil, albeit at lessor amounts for a couple years as the market rebounded.  As far as this year is concerned, the monies we allocated for 2020 were set aside in a non-investment account to ensure the funds would be available to our grantees.  This is a practice we have employed for several years, and in this case has thus far proven to be a well-advised insurance policy.  Non-profit agencies will likely be hard hit if many donors pull back levels of support amid their own financial concerns.  This has happened before, and those agencies that have built reserve accounts, i.e. rainy-day funds, will probably survive a temporary downturn.  I urge those who support their favorite local charities to continue your generous ways, as we are most needed in times of crisis.
 
I am pleased to inform you that the Avila Beach Community Foundation will once again engage the services of PathPoint, an organization that provides employment training and opportunities for developmentally challenged clients, to help keep areas of our beach boardwalk tidy during Avila’s tourism high season.  These enthusiastic client employee teams will be present on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings from May 14 through October 5, focusing on sand and debris removal from the sidewalks, planters and gutters bordering each side of the Avila Beach Promenade boardwalk.  PathPoint provided this service last year, and there was a marked improvement in the safety and cleanliness of the target areas.  Our special thanks to SLO County Supervisor Adam Hill, who has jumped on board as a project partner by providing a grant to help us cover the maintenance fees.
 
In the continuing saga of the stolen lifeguard tower public art mural panel, I want to let everyone know that Arts Obispo (the legal owner of the art) has been in touch with their insurance company, filed a claim, and as of this writing awaits a decision on said claim.  While we keep our fingers crossed that the claim will be approved, contingencies are being discussed should it be denied, or contain a high deductible.  Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available.  Also, please be reminded that the Foundation has established a Public Art Development and Restoration Fund, so you may want to consider making a donation toward current and future public art opportunities in our community.

Moving forward, the arrival of April means that Avila begins to gear up for its next busy season.  Concerts, special events, beach visitors and out of area tourists will put stress on our community.  High impact residential, vacation and hospitality venue developments are on the rise – some in progress and others still in the permitting process.  It kind of feels like every available square foot is being built upon, putting the squeeze on any remaining open space here in Avila.  Traffic will again become an issue, likewise a lack of public parking that will extend into the residential neighborhoods.  It all amounts to a “runaway train” without a braking system, despite commendable efforts on the part of local groups to invoke smart growth initiatives.  As I have written in the past, desirability and economic incentives have dramatically altered once “sleepy” enclaves up and down the coast.  It’s hard to find fault with those seeking a better lifestyle, as most of us here today came from other places.  I encourage all Avilones to maintain a positive outlook, and to enjoy the life we have here in Avila, even if it doesn’t meet the ideals of times past.  I still enjoy following the Dodgers, even though it’s not the same without Vin Scully at the mic.  So it is that I still appreciate living so close to the best beach on the central coast, even if there is less elbow room.  It sure beats most alternatives. 

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

Greetings, fellow “Avilones. ”As I sit here at my keyboard, looking forward to the month of March and the coming of spring, it dawns on me that this also marks the twelfth anniversary of when I first began writing columns for what was then the Avila Beach Community News –and now known as Avila Beach Life.  This print publication remains pretty much the same as its launch in 2009, albeit under four different owners, each one working hard to retain a role for print media in what has become an internet-oriented news industry.  It was never among my personal/professional goals to write for a newspaper, though I did complete three journalism classes in college to avoid taking one speech class (sheesh!).  But here I am – about 120 columns later – still at it.  The time has flown by, and the upcoming seasonal change, coupled with the aforementioned anniversary, has given me pause for a moment of reflection and introspection.
 
As those of you regular readers know, I devote my allotted space to bring you information about the Avila Beach Community Foundation, the work we do and the organizations, projects and programs we support.  And, just as often, I share about things happening around Avila that I believe would be of interest to most “Avilones”. There comes a responsibility when selected to run a community-based organization, or when given “the power of the pen” – both of which I try to honor at all times. On the job I stay away from politics – primarily because 501 (C)(3) non-profit organizations by law cannot engage in such activities, nor show any related biases.  Among those who know me, it’s no secret where I stand on political issues, but those stances don’t/won’t appear in this publication. But I don’t mind dipping into social matters.
 
This being a rare quiet period for the Foundation, I choose to allocate some of my space to espouse on what I consider to be – or should be - a matter of great societal concern.  Like many of you having reached the so-called “golden years” while living in Avila Beach – with its considerable elderly population - seeing many of our elderly friends and neighbors become sick, frail and reach the end of life is painful.  In my neighborhood alone we have lost at least a half dozen folks over the past several months, and more over the past year or two.  It is becoming quite common, though inevitable.  Why do I write about this now, you may ask?  I don’t want to sound like a “Debbie-Downer,” but as I inch closer to “knockin’ on heaven’s door”, my curiosity about the subject of death and dying is becoming further fueled, as it was originally during my prior three-year term serving on the SLO County Commission on Aging. I foresee a tsunami approaching, what with tens of millions of baby-boomers racing – or shuffling - toward the finish line.  What I don’t see are concrete solution driven conversations at any level.
 
We read/hear about the looming dearth of medical personnel, elder care facilities and staff to handle the coming wave– yet little about the financial cost and emotional tolls many will endure.  Society, in general, seems to consider taboo the subject of personal choice when it comes to defining quality of life, death and dying.  So, it is largely ignored, or at best, the proverbial can being kicked down the road.  I won’t bore you with my own strong feelings about these taboos, but I will tell you that I have become a regular attendee of a monthly discussion workshop about death and dying that is hosted by Hospice of San Luis Obispo County.  I find the dialogue to be interesting and informative, while also gaining various perspectives from folks who have been touched by experiences.  Check it out if you are the least bit curious about the topic.
 
Moving on, I do want to bring you up to date about the previously reported stolen art panel removed from one of the lifeguard towers near the Avila pier.  Unfortunately, the spate of publicity on social media, local newspapers and television has not resulted in locating the panel or the culprit(s).  We still await word from the legal owner of the artwork – ARTS Obispo – in the hopes that their insurance might cover the loss and cost to replace.  If not, we may launch a local campaign to raise the estimated $2,500 for a replacement panel to be produced. Do any of you have a few bucks to spare?  Stay tuned.

Next, have you heard about Qigong?  Well, according to Wikipedia, it is a centuries-old system of coordinated body-posture and movement, breathing, and meditation used for the purposes of health, spirituality, and martial-arts training.  With roots in Chinese medicine, philosophy, and martial arts, Qigong is traditionally viewed by the Chinese and throughout Asia as a practice to cultivate and balance qi (pronounced approximately as "chi"), translated as "life energy". If your interest or curiosity is now piqued, let it be known that every Thursday from noon-1:00 pm you can attend FREE sessions of Qigong, being taught by Cyndi Sylva, at the Avila Beach Golf Resort Beach Club.  All are welcome, you do not need to register in advance, just show up!  For additional information email Cyndi at Avilabeachqigong@gmail.com.  Cyndi is also hosting a special workshop to benefit the Cancer Well-Fit Program on March 21 from 9:00 am-1:00 pm.  Space is limited to 30 people, and the cost to attend is $40.  For more information and to sign up for the event, go to http://www.cancerwell-fit.com/donate-.html.  Click on the “Qigong” tab that appears on the upper right side of the screen.

Question of the day!  What happens in America every ten years?  Answer = the U.S. Census.  We all know the importance of these headcounts and the surveying that takes place throughout the country.  But, did you know that part time jobs are available for people willing to canvass their neighborhoods?  The pay is pretty good, $21 per hour in SLO County, and you can work as little as 5 hours per week.  Other census related jobs are also available, which you can read about online.  If you enjoy interacting with neighbors, want to make a few bucks, and get a little exercise, visit:  www.2020CENSUS.GOV/JOBS. 

That’s it for now, “fellow Avilones”.  See you at the beach!
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Greetings, fellow “Avilones.”  February is here, which means daylight hours are increasing, major league baseball players are beginning workouts in preparation for the 2020 season, we celebrate Valentine’s Day, Lincoln’s Birthday and President’s Day holidays, and eagerly look forward to the coming of spring.  These annual rituals come with little deviation from year to year, a kind of automatic pilot exercise.  Not an annual ritual is the political sparring now underway, what with heavyweight subjects of presidential impeachment and the start of Democratic primaries dominating the early part of 2020.  I don’t know about the rest of you, but I cannot recall any period in my life where I felt more angst when it comes to the state of our union.  I kind of miss the days before the era of the 24-hour information cycle and cable news based mostly on biased and often incendiary political commentary.
 
Adding to my current state of angst is some news first brought to my attention late last December just prior to my leaving the country for a cruise down the Baja Peninsula.  It came in the form of an email from our renowned local artist, Colleen Gnos, notifying the “Foundation” that one of the Avila Beach lifeguard tower mural panels she created was stolen sometime earlier in the month.  Argh!  Why must some people be so heartless and destructive!!!  It took what was likely a premeditated effort to remove the panel, which was installed with industrial quality rivets and require a special tool, and doing so at a time of day or night with little or no people around to see the crime.  As of this writing we have no information concerning details of the heist, but are coordinating with Colleen, the Harbor District and Arts Obispo to seek some kind of remedy to replace the missing piece.    You may recall that earlier in 2019 a couple of the lifeguard tower art panels were defaced with graffiti which, fortunately, was successfully removed by Colleen’s husband, Che.  Such dastardly destructive deeds bring to question whether future public art installations in Avila should be pursued.  Once again, Argh!
 
Moving on to other local matters, were you among the several dozen “Avilones” who attended the presentation about the pending Round-About project at the Avila Beach Drive / 101 Freeway interchange?  Held prior to, and with further explanation at the January AVAC meeting, we got a close look at diagrams/models, along with a power point presentation of what is in the works for this crazy and dangerous intersection.  County staff is coordinating with other agencies, including Caltrans, on this worthy but expensive undertaking.  There are several steps required to bring the project to fruition, and only the first few have been completed.  Most critically is the yet to be found estimated $9M-$13M cost for construction.  If you are interested in learning more about the project, visit the County webpage: SLO County Avila Beach Drive at 101 Interchange Project.
 
As you loyal readers know, I often write about the many grants awarded by the “Foundation” since it began doing so in the year 2000, in our ongoing mission to invest in organizations and projects that enhance life in Avila Beach.  What I don’t espouse about as much are the numerous activities that I refer to as “added value” to our primary purpose of grant making.  These so named “added value” activities have, I believe, further contributed to the Avila Beach experience.  Why do I bring this up now?  Because more and more folks are becoming aware of the “Foundation” and some ask me to share more about our role in the community.  So here we go – see below the list of “Foundation” hosted/supported Avila activities since 2009. And thanks for asking.
 
Avila Albacore Feed (2009 & 2010), Ultimate Avila Beach Getaway Survey (2010), Live Well Symposiums (2011 & 2013), Avila History & Heritage Presentation (2012), Placement of Commercial Trash Bins along Beach Railing (2012), Avila Beach Town Hall Forums (2012, 2014 & 2016), Avila Speaks Community Survey (2013), Community Matching Gifts Initiative (2013), Public Viewing Telescope (2013), Bob Jones Trail Educational Signs (2013), Avila Apple Festival (2015), Pet & People Drinking Fountain (2015), Avila Community Workshop (2016), Internet Safety Workshop (2016), Avila Beach Storytellers Event (2017), Avila Beach Lifeguard Towers Murals (2017), Public Art Murals at the Central Coast Aquarium in Avila Beach (2019), Avila Community Spotlight Event (2019).  
 
As you can see, we do what we can to help make Avila Beach the special place it is.  We welcome any ideas you may have to contribute to our efforts. 

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

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Are You Ready for Some History?
 
Some of you may recall that several years ago the "Foundation" funded a grant for the creation of the Avila Beach Historical Tour App.  Learn more about Avila Beach's colorful history by downloading the FREE Avila Beach Historical Tour App using either Apple App Store, or Android App on Google Play.
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Greetings, fellow “Avilones.”  Here we are, another year has passed and 2019 is now in our rearview mirror.  With a healthy dose of “2020 vision” at our disposal, perhaps we can look forward to a new year that surprises all of us – one that moves towards promoting national and international harmony.  A year where the greater good focuses on the welfare of the many, not just the few.  A year where leaders come together not solely for the benefit of the powerful, but also for those whose voices are not so easily heard.  Does that sound too idealistic?  Probably so, but settling for the status quo is, in my mind, giving in to the growing divide between the rich and the poor, the healthy and the infirm, the possible and the impossible.  My steadfast idealism is the result of a four decades long career in the non-profit sector – most of those years working for agencies that served the less fortunate and vulnerable members of our society.  I don’t take for granted the life I now enjoy in Avila Beach.  It affords me comfort and security beyond that which I hoped for while growing up.  But I never forget about those I was privileged to help serve in my various capacities along the way.  
 
Okay – that’s enough editorializing for now.  Let’s get to some current, local business.  First, I want to announce the Avila Beach Community Foundation Board of Trustees for 2020.  Returning officers are:  Board President Mike Ginn, Vice President Cyndy Lakowske, and Treasurer Richard Zacky.  Ellen Pitrowski is stepping into the role of Secretary, following the retirement of Gary Maier.  Returning Trustees are:  Bev Aho, Lucinda Borchard, Joe Caradonna, Patrick Corrigan, Saul Goldberg, Percy Jones, Barbara Nicholson, Paul Prather, and Brooke Salvini.  This is a delightful and insightful group of volunteers that help bring professionalism and credibility to our organization. To learn more about each, please visit our website – www.avilabeachfoundation.org. A special word of thanks to Gary Maier for his five productive years on the board.  Great job, Gary, and good luck in future endeavors!
 
As usual, there are matters pertaining to the future of Avila Beach that could be, or should be, of interest to all of us.  Much of what I personally learn about pending issues comes from attending the monthly meetings of the Avila Valley Advisory Council.  I like to remind my fellow “Avilones” on a regular basis that AVAC meetings are THE place to go to stay in touch with what’s happening in our community.  If you can’t make the meetings that occur on the second Monday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at the PG&E Visitor Center, you can visit the AVAC website to read meeting minutes for an overview of related activities – https://avac-avila.org.  Along that line, you are invited to attend an upcoming informational meeting regarding the Avila Beach Drive at US 101 Interchange Project, taking place from 6:00-7:00 p.m. on January 13, 2020 at the PG&E Visitor Center on Ontario Road.  I imagine all of you are aware of what is one of the most dangerous intersections in our county, and after many years of discussions and planning things are finally moving forward on solutions to the problem.  County staff will be presenting an update at the 1/13 gathering, so I urge you to drop by at 6:00 p.m., then also stay for the 7:00 p.m. AVAC meeting.  It will be worth your time.
 
As we enter a new decade, it behooves me to remember that Avila Beach continues to attract new residents – most of whom don’t know the historic connection between our town and the Avila Beach Community Foundation.  So, let’s take a brief walk down what is memory lane for you veterans, and a history lesson for the rookies.  Back in the early to mid-1990s, oil was discovered to have seeped into our town’s commercial and residential zones, and onto our beach front.  Through litigation, UNOCAL was found to be responsible for the contamination, and required to “clean up the mess.”  Removing the oil caused most of the commercial district to be razed and rebuilt, along with a hefty portion of the residential section.  Businesses and individuals were temporarily displaced – and some never returned.  In addition to the penalties incurred and costs of repairs, UNOCAL was required to write a check for $3.2 million to create an endowment to be used for future support of Avila Beach.  For a brief period that sum was held temporarily by the Avila Beach Community Services District as a new organization was formed in 1998 (the Avila Beach Community Foundation) to accept, house, invest and allocate monies from the fund.  Here we are, 22 years later.  The town doesn’t look or feel the same – some will say for better and some will say for worse.  But the “Foundation” has been here through thick and thin, has helped acquire and invest more than $3 million in local organizations and enhancement projects, and hosted numerous community engagement activities.  We plan to be here as long as there is an Avila Beach.  Learn more about us by visiting www.avilabeachfoundation.org.

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