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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  It may be the “cold winds of autumn” for a majority of college and pro football followers across the country, but today (October 20th) I sit at my computer looking at a temperature reading of 80+ degrees in Avila Beach. How lucky we are.  But not to forget, we did have a pleasant and unexpected weekend of rain just days ago.  Lady Weather is a fickle being, is she not?  And soon we will reset our clocks and mourn the seasonal loss of daylight savings – at least I will. After all, who wants to play tennis or golf in the dark?!?
 
Before I forget (again!), I want to correct an oversight on my part.  Last month when mentioning some of the “Foundation” projects that included some wonderful community partners, I forgot to include the name of Joan Sargen, who helped finance the cost to purchase materials used to craft the educational signs along portions of the Bob Jones Pathway.  And be it known that Joan has often times stepped up to the plate with financial support of various “Foundation” events over the years, for which we are grateful.  While I’m on the topic of extending gratitude, a hearty thank you goes to Avila resident Julian Varela for the years he spent on the Foundation’s Board of Trustees – including two as board president.  Business ventures have caused Julian to spend a great deal of time in San Diego, and he felt it best to step aside and open his seat to someone more available.  We will miss you, Julian!  And, last but not least, the “Foundation” thanks Rob Rossi, his family and foundation for bestowing upon us a very generous contribution in October.  The amount received has been deposited into our “Emerging Needs and Opportunities Fund,” which is drawn upon when worthy requests come our way that fall outside of the “Foundation’s” usual grant-making cycle.
 
I had the pleasure last month of attending a VIP Open House Studio Art tour hosted by Colleen Gnos, the very talented artist busily at work on the painting of panels to be installed on the Avila Beach lifeguard towers.  It was my first glance at the actual artwork, and only made me more excited about the project.  It now appears that the work will be completed sometime in mid to late December, and will be followed by a “now in the planning stages” community celebration and unveiling sometime in January.  Stay tuned for details as they become available.  I hope those of you Avilones who are public art lovers will see this first project as a stepping stone to even more for our beach area.  With limited funds at our disposal, any future public art will have to include donations from the very people who enjoy it the most – YOU.  A special account will be established by the “Foundation” to solicit and accept donations restricted for more Avila Beach public art projects.  Who among you will lead with a “pacesetter’s” gift?  Let’s talk about it.
 
Last month I mentioned that the “Foundation’s” grant-making cycle was in high gear.  On November 7th our Trustees will be gathering to vote on funding amounts for the 13 requests (totaling just under $70,000) under consideration.  The results will be announced in the December issue of the Avila Community News.  It never ceases to amuse me how varied are the priorities/interests of our Trustees who negotiate and vote on the outcome.  On the flip side, I am continually impressed with how friendly and thoughtful all Trustees are during those negotiations.  It is so UNLIKE the contentious elements in force with our country’s political process.  I’ve often said (though mostly tongue in cheek), that we should place the running of our government in the hands of the non-profit industry.  Of course, you may want to take that with a grain of salt since I’ve spent MY entire adult life as a non-profit professional.  But really, have you ever seen political discourse be more of a circus?  If civility, respect, decency and courtesy all but disappear, what have we remaining of our core values?  Forgive me for the twist toward politics in this column, but I just couldn’t help myself.  No more on that scene, folks!!!
 
In closing, I want to wish everyone a happy, healthy and peaceful holiday season.  Thanksgiving is around the corner, the turkeys are running for cover, and pumpkins are popping up all over the place.  Ah, the sacrifice turkeys and pumpkins make for our enjoyment.  I am grateful that we live in a caring and giving community, and am appreciative of being able to serve as Executive Director of the Avila Beach Community Foundation.  For me, very little beats the opportunity to devote my abilities to benefit the community in which I live, and to come into regular contact with the generous and friendly people who do what they can to lead, participate and lend support for the greater good.  Best wishes to you Avilones. 
 
See you at the beach!

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  We have entered the month of October, and things around the beach area continue to slow down for tourists, businesses and locals alike.  Before we know it, the year-end holiday season will be upon us, followed by the welcoming in of 2017.  For the “Foundation” however, the final months of each year are among our busiest.  A great deal of time and energy will be spent on the annual grant-making processes.  This is the task to which the “Foundation” Trustees and staff look most forward, as we review requests for financial support from a host of local non-profit organizations and public agencies, then through a spirited exercise choose where we can best invest the money we have to spend in Avila Beach for the coming year.
 
Now is also a good time to remind you loyal readers of the Avila News just how much having a local “Foundation” means to the community.  Though I may be a bit biased here, the terms that come to mind are “making a difference”, “having a positive impact”, and “added value”.  Since the “Foundation” began operations, it has awarded and helped distribute roughly $3 million in funding for our community.  For example, the “Foundation” has invested slightly more than $1 million to renovate the Avila Beach Community Center and subsidize ongoing staffing costs.  The Central Coast Aquarium has received grants totaling over $140,000, as has the popular Jr. Lifeguards Program.  We have spent more than $120,000 over the years to help ensure that rides on the Avila Trolley remain free to the public.  Port San Luis Harbor District has benefited from more than $180,000 in “Foundation” and collaborative grants.  We have hosted three Town Hall Forums, two Live Well Symposiums, an Internet Safety Workshop, and an Avila History and Heritage presentation.  We founded both the former Avila Albacore Feed and present Avila Apple Festival, arranged for the placement of commercial grade trash bins along the railing of the beach boardwalk, facilitated the acquisition and installation of the free public viewing telescope near the foot of the Avila Pier, and the people/pet water fountain at the restroom adjacent to beach boat ramp (both thanks to the generosity of Richard and Kathy Zacky), and partnered with Saul Goldberg to place the educational signs along the Bob Jones Trail.  And, before the end of the year, will be unveiling the first Avila Beach Public Art project – local artist Colleen Gnos’ history inspired painting of the Avila Lifeguard Towers.
 
Having just mentioned the Avila Beach Public Art project, I encourage you to keep your eyes open for information about the upcoming unveiling of the completed work.  In addition to the donors and project partners – Chevron, PG&E, the Sara Horne Art Fund and Port San Luis Harbor District - the Avila public will be invited to partake in the ceremonies.  Details are still to be finalized, so stay tuned.  And speaking of “staying tuned”, you may want to mark your calendars for an upcoming informational event scheduled for Thursday, October 27, 6:30p.m., at the Avila Beach Community Center.  The SLO County Planning Department will be presenting “Envision Avila” a kick-off update of the Avila Community Plan.  This is a topic that has been of great concern to many locals, as the pending plan may have a huge impact on the future of Avila Beach. 
 
In closing, I believe that for such a small and lean organization the “Foundation” serves our community well, and will continue to do so as our mission states, “in perpetuity”.  When it comes to community foundations, ours is a bit unique since it functions as a sort of hybrid organization.  As articulated above, it is one that awards grants AND conducts a variety of educational, informational and community enhancement activities.  While we do not actively pursue endowment building, the possibility of expanding our grant-making and project development abilities through planned/estate giving and personal donations remains an option and interest.  I welcome hearing from any Avilones open to discussing ways that they can invest in the community.  You have chosen to live in a very special place, and there are opportunities to help make the future of Avila one that the next generation can enjoy as much as you do.  The upcoming holiday season is a terrific time to think about your legacy and talk about your interests.  You know where to find me. 
 
That’s it for now, fellow Avilones.  I’ll see you at the beach!

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  For most primary and secondary schools, summer vacation has ended and students are back in the classroom.  As I arrived at my office on this day (August 22nd), the beach parking lot near the Post Office was nearly deserted, and the streets were eerily devoid of the cars that arrive early during the summer so occupants can avoid parking fees.  I took a big breath and enjoyed the relative quiet of the area, albeit knowing that numerous busy weekends and an upcoming holiday still loom ahead.
 
I now deviate from my usual Avila Beach “news-worthy” musings to share some inner thoughts about life on the Central Coast.  Having migrated here from Southern California in 1989, where I spent the first nearly four decades of my life, I sometimes forget just how wonderful and blissfully isolated we are from what goes on as “regular business” in my former Los Angeles/Orange County world.  What brought me back to that reality was a somewhat recent decision to subscribe to the Los Angeles Times because I needed a greater “fix” of sports news (primarily the L.A. Dodgers), since the SLO County Tribune has decided to all but eliminate major league baseball reporting from their print publication.  Please don’t urge me to enjoy my morning cup of coffee while gleaning the news online.
 
However, since spending $48 per month for this baseball fix alone made no sense, I began to read the various other sections containing international, national, and statewide news.  The story headlines of one particular day left me sad and depressed.  Among them were; “Suspect fatally shot by police was 14 years old”.  “Long Beach settles suit over police shootings”.  “Child’s body found in duffle bag”.  “Comedian convicted of sexual assault.”  “Early deaths linked to smog”.  “Ex-mayor of South El Monte facing bribery charges.”  And that was just in the California section of the paper!  Now, that’s not to suggest that nothing bad ever happens here on the Central Coast.  We clearly no longer exist in “Andy of Mayberry Fantasyland”, but life in SLO County in particular offers a protective cocoon of comfort and safety not evident in many other regions of the state.  Not to appear “Polly-Anna” - I am not known to be the most positive person around - but life in Avila is truly a gift for those of us fortunate enough to live here.  Sure, we all can find things to complain about.  But our “headlines” are far better than most.
 
Okay - enough cheerleading from me and back to business.  For those of you on the edge of your seats just waiting for some updates on “Foundation” projects and initiatives – here you go.  The Avila Beach Public Art Project is still on target, though the public “paint-in” with artist Colleen Gnos had to be postponed until September 8th due to some technical difficulties.  If you want to be part of the Avila Beach Lifeguard Tower group painting base colors on the panels, call 544-9251 or visit Colleen’s website at http://www.artsobispo.org.   Next, you may recall that one of the priority projects identified at the “Foundation’s’ April community workshop was launching efforts to help raise money to repair the Avila Pier.  I am happy to report that the Port San Luis Harbor District - through the leadership of Harbor Manager Andrea Lueker – is in the process of forming a 501C3 non-profit arm to help raise the money necessary to leverage large matching grants available through some federal and state agencies.  Anyone interested in participating should contact Andrea at 595-5400.
 
Regarding the aforementioned “April community workshop”, I have to say that efforts to convene the people who expressed interest in serving on various priority project ideas has somewhat stalled.  Early outreach to the folks who initially wanted to participate has not produced the results I was hoping for.  But I am not giving up, and hope that the cool reception was due more to the timing of the outreach early this summer.  I will be trying again this fall as things settle down. 
 
\At the September meeting of AVAC, we were once again reminded by the Sheriff’s Department to register our cellphones for “Reverse 911” – a service designed to notify us by phone of emergency situations.  While landlines are automatically in the program, cellphone users must visit the Reverse 911 Portal at www.slosherriff.org.  Lastly, an idea from AVAC member Mary El Hansen elicited some interest.  She wonders about the possibility of creating a “costumed character” (in the line of Smokey Bear) whose job it would be to wander the beaches during high user periods and encourage people (particularly children) to pick up litter.  I kinda like the notion, and would like to hear from others interested in helping to develop the idea.  You know where to find me.

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