Greetings, fellow Avilones.  Bellowing smoke and chugging into 2021 we go, but still with many unanswered questions ahead.  When will life return to normal?  Will the promise of a vaccine to fight Covid-19 be the miracle we have been waiting for?  Will a peaceful transition of power at the governmental level result in greater harmony among Americans now so very much divided by geography, economics and personal beliefs?  Only time will tell as we anxiously await to regain our footing here in Avila Beach, a community that has, for the most part, been a harbor of calm among otherwise choppy seas.
 
Avila will not truly become whole again until some of its most cherished assets reopen their doors for good.  The local community organizations, hospitality industry and recreational venues have suffered greatly, remaining just out of our reach.  The places we go and people with whom we congregate these days feels so odd, lacking the human touch and easily seen smiles we were accustomed to before the pandemic.  How good it will feel when we can once again hug, high-five, or peck on the cheeks of our friends and relatives.  It will feel so nice to sit shoulder to shoulder at tables while we dine indoors or outdoors.  It will be so refreshing to once again see kids and adults frolicking about without wearing masks and having to socially distance.  I can hardly wait to meet again without “zooming in.”
 
Remember when Avilones would gather at the Avila Community Center, visit the Central Coast Aquarium or tour the Pt. San Luis Lighthouse?  Remember seeing the Avila Free Trolley shuttling people around during the busy summer season?  Remember strolling along the Promenade during Farmers’ Market season, enjoying the aromas wafting from the food vendors and the rhythmic sounds of live music?  Maybe, just maybe, these activities and others will return sometime in 2021.  Even when the current health crisis has passed, it will be quite a challenge for our Avila-based organizations to ramp up again.  It won’t happen overnight, and will require a high degree of community support, the type that is being fostered by Debbie Collins, president and acting executive director of the Central Coast Aquarium.  Debbie stepped up last spring to provide volunteer leadership as Aquarium staff were laid off and doors locked due to the required shutdown.  She has since been scouring the community, seeking donations to build up financial resources that will enable the Aquarium to resume operations when the time comes.  Debbie also launched a Go Fund Me Campaign as part of her strategy.  So, if you want to donate through that platform, simply “google” GoFundMe Central Coast Aquarium, and you will find links to the website.
 
Speaking of volunteer leadership, it is my honor and pleasure to introduce the “Foundation’s” Board of Trustees for 2021.  It is this band of dedicated individuals that accepts responsibilities of agency governance, assures our portfolio is properly managed, maintains adherence to our mission, and ensures that our grant funds are well invested in the community.  This year’s Board Officers are:  President Mike Ginn, who has been with us since 2011; Vice President Cyndy Lakowske, who has been with us since 2017; Treasurer Richard Zacky, who joined the board in 2014; and Secretary Ellen Pitrowski, who joined the board in 2017.  Trustees at Large include:  Bev Aho, class of 2016; Lucinda Borchard, class of 2011; Joe Caradonna, class of 2019; Patrick Corrigan, class of 2019; Saul Goldberg, class of 2016; Percy Jones, class of 2012; Barbara Nicholson, class of 2018; Paul Prather, class of 2016.  Let me not forget to bid a fond farewell to departing Trustee Brooke Salvini, who was elected to the board in 2016, but had to recently resign upon moving her business from Avila Beach, thus rendering her ineligible to continue.  Many thanks, Brooke, for your years of service.  You will be missed.
 
The last order of business is a reminder to partake of the upcoming Bob Jones Trail Walking Quiz.   It occurs in two parts, with each quiz consisting of five questions to which answers can be found at selected interpretive signs along the trail.   One journey starts at the Ontario Road entrance, and the other at the entrance from Avila Beach Drive and 1st Street.  All who answer the questions correctly will be entered into a drawing for a $50 gift card to the Avila Beach restaurant of your choice.  Grab your smartphone, put on your walking shoes, enlist family or friends to join you, and have some fun.  Visit the Avila Beach Community Foundation website, become a subscriber, and learn how to participate – www.avilabeachfoundation.org.
 
That’s it for now, fellow Avilones.  May the year 2021 be good to you, and may it harken the beginning of better times, greater understanding, peaceful coexistence, and harmony. 

​See you at the beach!

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  Another December has arrived, and the year is coming to a challenging end.   What a strange journey it has been.  And how ironic that long suffering Lakers and Dodgers fans finally saw their beloved teams become world champions, but not be able to celebrate in the customary fashion.   As was the case for Thanksgiving, the usual gathering of family and/or friends for Christmas and Hanukkah will be placed on hold this year, or may proceed with the number of attendees reduced in size.   Whatever December may bring, I wish you the happiest possible of holidays that you can muster. 
 
Speaking of the holidays, were you aware of the early gift that arrived at our shores last month in all their glory?  Some humpback whales were strutting their stuff in Port San Luis Harbor and came in dangerous proximity to a few kayakers.  Videos and photos were captured by nearby onlookers, providing some exciting close-up and close-call “National Geographic” moments.   In case you missed the videos, you can find some simply by searching “YouTube whales in Avila Beach.”  Please be reminded that it’s against the law to come within 100 yards of these magnificent marine creatures, so be sure to enjoy them from a safe and allowable distance whenever encountered.
 
You may recall my prior mention of how the “Foundation” was reacting to the situations facing several of our grantees due to the pandemic.  None were going about business as usual.  Some were functioning on a limited basis, and some have yet to even open their doors.   We reached out and made some financial considerations intended to reassign funds where agencies deemed them most essential to their missions.  We also decided to dispense with our traditional grant application processes this year, and instead elected to provide the same level of funding to eligible agencies in 2021 that we did in 2020.  The supported organizations include:  Central Coast Aquarium, Avila Beach Civic Association, Cancer Well-Fit, Point San Luis Lighthouse Keepers, Avila Beach Jr. Lifeguards Program, People’s Self-Help Housing, Port San Luis Harbor District (Mutt Mitts), Bellevue-Santa Fe Charter School, the Noor Foundation, Operation Surf Central Coast, the Surfrider Foundation, PathPoint Seasonal Beach Clean-up Program, and KCBX Public Radio.  Plus, we will continue to support the Free Avila Trolley and home delivery of the Avila Beach Life news publication.  Total funding allocated comes to $62,500. 

Last month I brought to your attention the upcoming Bob Jones Trail Walking Quiz.  Well, it has been officially launched.  It occurs in two parts, with each quiz consisting of five questions to which answers can be found at selected interpretive signs along the trail.   One journey starts at the Ontario Road entrance, and the other at the entrance from Avila Beach Drive and 1st Street.  All who answer the questions correctly will be entered into a drawing for a $50 gift card to the Avila Beach restaurant of your choice.  Grab your smartphone, put on your walking shoes, enlist family or friends to join you, and have some fun.  Visit the Avila Beach Community Foundation website, become a subscriber, and learn how to participate – www.avilabeachfoundation.org.
 
Please bear with me as I deliver this “commercial moment” – one that I publish each year to remind all you fellow Avilones that the “Foundation” is here to effectively and efficiently serve our community, and to also draw upon the collective resources of those who live here to help our town continue to thrive.  We are a small and humble organization that has invested roughly    $3 million dollars in our community since becoming established in 1998.   Most of this was derived from monies in the “Foundation’s” professionally managed investment portfolio, but some has come through generous contributions from folks who just want to help us make a difference.  There are several ways to do so, such as establishing a Donor Advised Fund of your own, or by contributing to any of our existing Project Funds, including the Avila Beach Public Art Development and Restoration Fund, the Emerging Needs and Opportunities Fund, the Avila Beach Trails Improvements Fund, the Richard and Kathleen Zacky Family Foundation Fund, or the Joan Sargen Avila Beach Communities Enrichment Fund.  Donations to any of these funds are fully tax deductible, and no management fees are taken by the “Foundation”.  Please get in touch with me if you wish to discuss the possibilities.  And don’t forget, any donation, regardless of amount, entitles you to receive one or more of our limited-edition, “Proud Avilone” license plate frames!  ‘Tis the season of giving.

Last but not least are two things I remind you of each December.  Cal Fire Battalion Chief Paul Lee says it’s time to replace the batteries in our smoke alarms and check our carbon monoxide detectors.  The seasonal changes in daylight savings each year are the perfect periods to complete these tasks.  And be sure to always purchase your postage and ship your packages at our local Avila Beach Post Office to keep it financially viable.  We are so fortunate to be able to avoid the long lines at busier post offices in San Luis Obispo and south county. The friendly and helpful services of Mary, Julie and Cindy are icing on the cake. 

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

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  Here, once again, I sit at my keyboard contemplating just what I should write for my next column, due the 15th of each month.  What is current, what is relevant, what will you care to actually read about?  As I’ve mentioned in recent columns, answering those questions has been made more difficult because of present circumstances that do not require further explanation.  But before I forget, let me wish you an early Happy Thanksgiving.  Hard to focus on that looming late November holiday while I pen this column on a day when the temperature is over 90 degrees.  Hot turkey and gravy just not appealing today….LOL

Most often I write about the “Foundation” and the various organizations and projects we support.  Even though some of those remain on hold, it doesn’t mean nothing is going on in Avila.  I receive regular email updates from other Avila entities and interest groups with whom you may or may not be familiar.  While there is collectively too much information provided by them to include in my column, I can encourage you to visit their websites and learn what you can about what is going on in your community.  Much of what is published on these websites presents various current projects or future developments that could change the character of Avila Beach.  While the “Foundation” does not take a stance in support of or against what is coming down the pike, I do feel it’s important for all Avilones to self-educate on such matters.   When you have some time to spare, visit the websites of:

Avila Valley Advisory Council -  avac-avila.org   
Port San Luis Harbor District - www.portsanluis.com
Avila by the Sea Resort - www.avilabythesearesort.com
Concerned Citizens for Avila - www.concernedcitizens4avila.org
​
Getting back to “Foundation” business, I want to share with you something that came up a few months ago, and has not yet been resolved.   Most of you are aware of and have enjoyed the beautiful mural panels on the Avila Beach lifeguard towers for about four years.  This public art installation, with funds raised by the “Foundation,” came to fruition in partnership with ARTS Obispo (AO), a county non-profit that has been around for decades.  Through this arrangement, AO became the legal owner of the artwork, and contracted with Port San Luis Harbor District to have the panels appear on the towers for 5 years.  That initial 5-year period concludes early in 2022, and discussions are under way to extend that arrangement.  The problem is that AO has been severely struck by the pandemic’s financial crisis, reducing their resources and perhaps threatening their future existence.  Thus, AO wants to divest itself of the artwork ownership.  We are actively seeking ownership alternatives, while at the same time hoping to keep the murals just where they are.  Stay tuned.

Coming to a conclusion on October 12th was this year’s seasonal beach clean-up project, contracted with PathPoint, and funded by the “Foundation”, Chevron, and the late County Supervisor Adam Hill.  This was the second year PathPoint provided the service, but with a distinct difference from last year.  PathPoint provides employment opportunities, training and support of clients with developmental disabilities.  Last year it was their clients who diligently worked areas of the beach boardwalk, sidewalks and curbs to reduce the amount of sand and debris.  Due to pandemic related restrictions, these same client work groups were not allowed to function this year.  So, it was PathPoint team supervisors who stepped forward to perform the clean-up duties.  Kudos to them!  Foot traffic was incredibly high this season, and we believe the project made a difference.

Be on the lookout for something coming down the road soon.  You may know about those cool interpretive signs along the Bob Jones Trail, created and installed by Avilones Saul Goldberg and his team.  The original signs succumbed to wear and tear, so new ones have replaced the old.  There is now being developed a “walking quiz” that will encourage you Avilones to take a leisurely stroll along the trail, stop at the signs, and provide answers to a series of multiple-choice questions.  All who answer the questions correctly will be entered into a drawing for a gift card to the Avila Beach restaurant of your choice.  Keep your eyes open for more information coming soon. 

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

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.
***********************************************************************
​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.
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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.
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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!