Greetings, fellow Avilones. Summertime in Avila Beach here we come! I certainly don't need to tell you what to expect, but I guess it's okay to remind you to prepare and plan for any trips into or out of our soon to be stretched to the limit cozy beach town. I have a lot of content to share this month, so I'll get right into it.
 
First, it is my extreme pleasure to introduce Barbara Nicholson as the "Foundation's" newest member of our Board of Trustees. A native Washingtonian, Barbara moved to SLO County in 1996 and worked as a Retail Application Consultant for SAP, as Retail Market Manager for Dioptics, and as Advertising Sales Rep for national and major accounts for The Tribune. Barbara shifted gears and in 2006 was hired as Executive Director of Partnership for the Children of San Luis Obispo County, which operates Tolosa Children's Dental Center for Medi-Cal and uninsured children. Currently Barbara works as an independent Event Coordinator specializing in small community events. In 2016, she and husband Howard, a Real Estate Appraiser, moved to Avila, where they reside in the Indian Hill community of the San Luis Bay Estates with Rusty (cat) and Sampras (dog). Welcome, Barbara!
 
You loyal readers may recall that in last month's issue of the Avila News, I devoted some space to the presence and importance of local volunteer intensive community groups that help keep Avila Beach ticking. One of the newer such groups is "Concerned Citizens of Avila Beach", which I've mentioned in past columns. I decided to interview the group's current President Betty Hartig to give you a greater idea of the work they do. Here goes . . .  
 
What is your role with "Concerned Citizens"?
I am the President of CC4A and conduct all meetings of the Board. I also serve as a representative of the organization in meetings and discussions with other organizations and agencies. I send and sign letters, such as the recent letter to County Parks regarding fire safety concerns at Cave Landing. However, our seven member Board works together on all aspects.
 
When was the organization established, and why?
CC4A was initially founded in March 2015 out of concerns raised by the Wild Cherry Canyon Development, a huge housing project proposed for that pristine area. There were also other extensive projects with applications that had been submitted to the Department of Planning at that same time. The idea of large development creating more traffic and threats to the environment without well thought out mitigations and limitations galvanized citizens to act together. CC4A became a formal organization in June 2017 with established Bylaws and a Board of Directors.
 
What is "Concerned Citizens" current area of focus?
The mission of the organization is to protect the natural environment, safety and accessibility of Avila. We are concerned with traffic congestion that presents a significant risk to visitors, employees, and residents due to Avila's solitary road in and out, fire danger, tsunami potential and nuclear facility. There are currently four extensive projects that have been submitted. The present threat to public safety and welfare in Avila due to road congestion would be magnified by further development. If a fire or any type of emergency evacuation were to occur in Avila, how could people leave safely and in a timely manner? We have asked the County Board of Supervisors to put a hold on development until the update of Avila's General Plan is completed.
 
How can members of the community get involved with "Concerned Citizens"?
We encourage the community to sign up for our monthly newsletter by visiting  www.concernedcitizens4avila.org. We keep the community aware of issues and concerns, as well as provide updates regarding projects. Right now, we need volunteers to help organize and participate in community events that CC4A would like to host. You can also send an email to  concernedcitizens4avila@yahoo.com and let us know your interests.
 
More good reviews for the now famous murals affixed to the Avila Beach Lifeguard Towers! This project, launched by the Avila Beach Community Foundation and completed by local artist Colleen Gnos, was just named "Best Public Art" project in the New Times Best of SLO County Poll. We are delighted that the entire community has come to appreciate this unique display of Avila's storied past. Stay tuned for updates on our Phase II Public Art Project. It's progressing a bit slower than we had planned, but moving forward nevertheless.

That's it for now - see you at the beach!

Greetings, fellow Avilones.    According to the definition in Wikipedia, “an unincorporated area is a region of land that is not governed by a local municipal corporation; similarly an unincorporated community is a region of land that is not governed by its own local municipal corporation, but rather is administered as part of larger administrative divisions, such as a township, parish, borough, county, city, canton, state, province or country”.  Why do I mention this?  Well, as we all know, Avila Beach falls under the definition of being unincorporated.  But that doesn’t mean our community relies solely on the governance and oversight of SLO County to keep us ticking.

As a matter of fact, Avila Beach wouldn’t be the fine place it is without the numerous civic and non-profit organizations, councils and commissions, homeowners associations and services districts that are so essential to us all.  While the majority of Avila Beach residents go about their daily lives without great concern over the machinations happening behind the scenes, there is a solid corps of individuals who jump in as volunteers and spend countless hours serving the aforementioned groups.  I bring this up because it is important that we, as a community, be aware of the work done on our behalf, and that we, as a community, take the steps necessary to ensure a steady and ongoing supply of volunteer leaders. 

The residential communities of Avila Beach today look quite different than that of, say, 20+ years ago.  There is a constant flow of “newbies” who arrive with little knowledge of our area’s past, but who have, like most of us, found themselves fortunate enough to land in this slice of paradise we call home.  I often come into contact with new Avilones interested in learning more about the opportunities and organizations that make up the “alphabet soup” of names/acronyms we refer to so freely. ABCF, ABCA, ABCSD, ABTA, AVAC, PSLHB, SLBE, etc.  How many of you can assign the actual names to their acronyms?  With that in mind, it is my pleasure to inform you that a special event titled “Meet the Agencies Showcase” is being planned for later this fall, thanks to a generous grant from our friends at Chevron who, time and again, have stepped up with financial support of the “Foundation” and many other community organizations.  Details about the “Showcase” will be provided in the coming months, but the purpose and goal is to bring together representatives from the various groups that work so selflessly to keep the Avila engine running with those Avilones who want to meet and learn more about them.

In the blink of an eye, 20 years have come and gone since the inception of the Avila Beach Community Foundation.  Over that time it has been our pleasure to fund more than 160 local programs, projects and organizations, and to have funneled into the Avila community in excess of $3 million. The upcoming “Meet the Agencies Showcase”, while shining a light on the many Avila groups, will also serve as the “Foundation’s” 20 year anniversary celebration.  So, you can count on there being the usual generous offerings of refreshments that accompany our hosted activities.  Likewise, we plan on introducing the first of its kind “Avilones of Distinction Awards”, an honor to be bestowed upon local individuals known in the community for philanthropy, volunteerism, and advocacy.  The process will include a nomination and selection format with specific categories and criteria for consideration.  I know this is short on details, but you may want to start thinking ahead about people you feel deserving of special recognition.

If you have been following the painstakingly slow process of the County’s updating of the Avila Community Plan, the SLO County Department of Planning & Building recently released a comprehensive background report.  It contains nearly 180 pages, but for those of you not wanting to pour through the whole thing, you can read a snapshot in the five-page Executive Summary.  To take a look, visit www.EnvisionAvila.org.  When the home page appears, just click on “Draft Background Report.”  Then you can decide how much you want to read/learn.  There is certainly a great deal of history contained in the publication for those curious and willing to spend the time. 

Here’s another reminder that the Avila Trolley has once again included in its route a stop in Avila Village, in front of the entrance to the Avila Bay Athletic Club.  Due to restricted parking, this stop primarily serves San Luis Bay residents. Visit www.slorta.org for information and route schedule.

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

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  As I sit at my desk working on this month’s column, it is March 16th, and the end of a week that has been full of “April showers”, which seems appropriate for the April issue of the “News”.  In another one of our feast or famine weather situations, I am keeping an eye on the public parking lot next to the Community Center building, as it has been known to flood during heavy rains.  Harbor District vehicles have been patrolling the area, but what will be will be. 
 
Avila Beach is inching ever closer to our beach area high season, which as we all know means more people, more traffic and parking access woes.  Living in the San Luis Bay Estates, I have heard from quite a few fellow residents here that they simply stay away from the beach areas during the summer because of the aforementioned congestion.  Discussions continue at the County and local levels to discover measures to address traffic and parking, but we all know there has been no progress.  At one time in the not so distant past, the Avila Trolley had one of its route stops at the entrance to Avila Village/San Luis Bay Estates, but it was discontinued due to the objections of a business owner there.  Last year I met with the Trolley operating agency (SLO Regional Transit Authority) in an effort to restore an Avila Village stop, and they began negotiating with management at the Avila Bay Club and Avila Village Inn towards that end.  I am pleased to announce “mission accomplished”!  Beginning April 6th through June 3rd on Fridays from 4:00-9:00p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00a.m.-6:00p.m., SLBE residents can hop on for a free Trolley ride to the beach at the new stop in front of the Avila Bay Athletic Club at 15 minutes after the hour, and catch a ride back according to the schedule you can download at www.slorta.org.  Summer and fall hours differ.  HOWEVER, I must share with you that the new stop will operate on a trial basis, and continuation depends on a reasonable volume of riders taking advantage of the opportunity.  SO PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD!  Also, it is important to note that SLBE residents must park on the street adjacent to the Avila Bay Club, and not in their parking lot.  Enter through the side gate and it’s just a few steps to the Trolley stop.
 
If there’s one thing we all know, it’s that change is constant.  You readers are well aware that the “Foundation” and other Avila organizations have been continually assisted and financially supported by our District 3 County Supervisor Adam Hill, but most of you never had the opportunity to meet or work with his dedicated Legislative Assistant, Hannah Miller, who has been so responsive and helpful when called upon by our community.  Sadly for us, Hannah recently accepted another position with the County, and will no longer be our “go to” person at Supervisor Hill’s office.  Hannah, you have been terrific, and will be missed.  Best of luck!  Introduced at the March meeting of the Avila Valley Advisory Council was new Legislative Assistant Blake Fixler, who has a tough act to follow.  Welcome, Blake!
 
A couple of years ago I reported my new role as a “member at large” with the SLO County Commission on Aging, and that periodically I would share some of what I’ve learned while attending Commission meetings.  At the March meeting, like at all others, a discussion ensued about the various scams becoming more and more prevalent in our daily lives.  Encouraging all of us to be more cautious and suspicious was a representative from the County Victim Witness program.  Current scams include fake phone calls to land line and mobile devices that appear to be from local area codes and prefixes – this in addition to calls coming from other parts of the country and abroad.  These bogus callers are trying to separate us from our money in a variety of ways, claiming to be from the IRS, law enforcement agencies, on behalf of supposed relatives, insurance or utilities companies, banks, etc.  While some at the meeting believed that simply having their phone numbers included on the “do not call” registry solves the problem, it does not stop callers who don’t obey the laws.  The best defense is to NEVER answer unless caller I.D. shows it’s from someone you know.  If the caller is otherwise legitimate, she/he will leave a message.  If messages left are from a business or agency seeking personal information and a return call, ALWAYS take steps to verify the authenticity of the alleged business or agency first. 
 
Hats off to the local group of folks known as “Concerned Citizens for Avila”, who continue to ramp up efforts to ensure SLO County acts in our best interests when it comes to current and future development in the greater Avila communities.  A good deal of their energy recently has to do with the long and drawn out creation of the SLO County General Plan, within which includes the Avila Community Plan.  Much about this issue has been discussed the past few years, and I won’t rehash it here.  Nor can I, in my capacity with the Avila Beach Community Foundation, take a political stance or express views on the subject.  But I will say it behooves all Avilones to become aware of these issues related to current and future development.  Visit the website – ConcernedCitizens4Avila.org for more information.
 
On March 15th I attended an informational gathering hosted by Port San Luis Harbor District.  We were presented with an update concerning the status and future of the Avila Pier, including renditions of what a new structure could look like.  Right now the District is focusing on concept design and exploring ways to fund the project.  I encourage all of you interested in the Pier to visit www.portsanluis.com for more information.  

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

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  I don’t know about you, but the annual arrival of daylight savings marks for me an always welcome occasion.   There’s just something about those evenings of extended outdoor activities under the natural light of the sun that makes me feel better about life.  Having spring weather knocking on the door means the soon to be shedding of layered clothing, extra blankets and the sound of the furnace kicking in.  And to top off the joy is my knowing that the next baseball season is just around the corner, the period during which my L.A. Dodger leanings go head to head against my friends in the S.F. Giants corner.  Let the games begin!
 
So, what’s happening with the next Avila Beach Public Art Project?  I’m glad you asked!  Following the successful effort to raise sufficient funds from our friends in the community, or plan was to kick off the artist selection process for Phase II very early in 2018.  Unfortunately there became a bump in the road when the head of ARTS Obispo suddenly left her job with the organization.  And as some of you may recall, the Foundation relied somewhat heavily on ARTS Obispo and their expertise in the arena of public art to help us bring our first project to a highly acclaimed final product.  We have been told that the new Executive Director should be on board soon, after which we will re-engage and get the ball rolling.  Stay tuned for more information about the process as it becomes available.
 
Under the category of “job well done”…congratulations and kudos to the administration and staff of Bellevue-Santa Fe Charter School for swiftly reaching their goal of securing matching funds to access the recent grant from the “Foundation”.  Shortly after Principle Holly Warrick was informed of the grant award, the school got to work on raising $6,250 to match the “Foundation” gift of $6,250.  The combined $12,500 is dedicated for enhanced technology-based education for teachers and students in grades 2nd-6th.   Says Principle Warrick, “Computer technology today in the classroom has evolved, enabling teachers to provide greater opportunities to bring information to their students and better prepare them for the future.  Computers have changed the way society functions, and as such, future generations need to compete with the growing trends of a technology-driven society that relies on computers to do daily tasks.”  We at the “Foundation” are pleased and proud to be associated with Bellevue-Santa Fe on this worthy endeavor.
 
Some “taxing” decisions loom for charitable donors.  While I won’t express my views on the recent overhaul of our country’s tax laws, I do feel it necessary to point out one of the unintended consequences that may be felt in ways perhaps not considered by lawmakers.  According to a recent article published in the Wall Street Journal, “the number of tax returns claiming deductions for charitable contributions will drop by more than 50% as a result of the tax overhaul, show estimates from the Tax Policy Center.”  This has to do with the relationship between the doubling of the standard deduction and the itemizing of write-offs.  The math for tax filers will likely be somewhat confusing, and could be a destructive storm of epic proportion for organizations that rely heavily upon charitable gifts from donors driven in whole or part by tax deductible benefits.  Ideally, donors attached to favored causes and non-profit organizations won’t allow the new laws to diminish their giving.  However, we don’t live in a world ruled by idealism.  The author of the “Journal” article suggests two ways to maximize tax breaks.  One is to “bunch” donations every few years to surmount the higher standard deduction.  Another way is to consider establishing Donor Advised Funds, popular accounts that enable donors to bunch smaller gifts into one large amount and take a deduction in the year of the gift.  Donor Advised Funds are a tool I’ve written about in past issues of the Avila News, and I would be happy to explore opportunities with any interested Avilone.  I encourage all donors who might be affected by the new laws to confer with their tax advisors for the best ways to address your charitable giving options.
 
Last but not least, I want to extend my personal best wishes to County Supervisor Adam Hill as he works through his challenges. Politics aside, Supervisor Hill has been a good friend to several Avila Beach-based organizations during his time in office, including financial support of many past “Foundation” projects and community educational activities. 

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

Greetings, fellow Avilones. Sitting at my computer on this day during the middle of January, I can't help but think of our Central Coast sister town of Santa Barbara, whose residents and businesses suffered catastrophic structural damage and tragic loss of life during the recent mudslides that followed history-making wildfires. One can only imagine something like that happening in SLO County, or in particular the Avila Beach area. Is there really any type of effective safety measures and preparedness that can help a community like ours avoid what our southern neighbors have experienced? We certainly have post-event reactive agencies in place, such as the Red Cross and County Office of Emergency Services. Individually we can only plan ahead and be prepared to hunker down or evacuate if Mother Nature comes calling. How many of us are really ready?
 
On a brighter side, I hope many of you had the opportunity to read the January 4-11 issue of New Times, which featured a cover and wonderful story about one of our community icons - Archie McLaren. Some of us only know Archie as the guy who owns the colorfully painted house on the hill with a gorgeous ocean view. Others of us know Archie for his three decades of organizing the highly acclaimed Central Coast Wine Classic. And the truly fortunate of us got to know Archie on a more personal level. I fall somewhere in between, having first met Archie many years ago when the non-profit agency I ran was selected as one of the Central Coast Wine Classic charitable beneficiaries, and again a few years later when I was with a different non-profit. As a several times Wine Classic volunteer, I experienced a truly amazing and well-organized event that quickly gained west coast (and beyond) fame. During its run, the "Classic" not only brought acclaim to Central Coast wines, but Archie made sure that the bounties realized were shared with numerous charitable organizations in SLO and Santa Barbara Counties - to the tune of hundreds of thousands of dollars. I won't even attempt to tell Archie's full story as it appeared in New Times, but I do encourage you to track down the article online and learn more about Archie.
 
Good news for those of you who missed the Foundation's Avila Beach Storyteller's Night last October, and even for those who did attend. It took a while to produce, but our videographer has completed and placed on the Foundation's website videos of each of the evening's storytellers. As I mentioned in previous columns, our storytellers shared a wide-range of topical tales depicting life in the earlier years of Avila Beach - some as far back as the 1940s and 1950s. Each story is roughly five minutes in length, and can be viewed individually. Or, if you have about one hour to spare and a bowl of popcorn to enjoy, you can view them all in one sitting. Visit www.avilabeachfoundation.org and look for the links on our homepage.
 
You Avila News online readers will receive this notice in time, and hopefully so print copy readers as well. Two events that may be of interest to you are coming up soon. I've learned that on March 15th at 6:00p.m., the Harbor Commission is hosting a gathering/open house for "stakeholders" interested in the future of the Avila Pier. For more information visit the Harbor Commission at www.portsanluis.com. The other event is February 8th at 6:30p.m., the group Concerned Citizens of Avila Beach is hosting "An evening with Fire Chief Paul Lee" at the Avila Beach Community Center. For more information visit their website at www.concernedcitizens4avila.org.
 
While neither I nor the Avila Beach Community Foundation are in the business of, well, promoting businesses, I do on occasion come in contact with a vendor or service that I feel provided a product that could prove helpful for other Avilones. A couple weeks back my wife got tired of fighting with her laptop and reached out to Five Cities Computer Repair, owned and operated by Nick Salazar. Nick responded promptly, made a house call, solved the problem, charged a very reasonable fee and even programmed the new remote control I acquired for my television months ago but couldn't figure out. Nick has helped a few other San Luis Bay Estates residents, but does not seem to be much of a self-promoter - instead focusing on his technical skills. If you are looking for a courteous and friendly tech professional, I recommend Five Cities Computer Repair.
 
That's it for now, fellow Avilones. See you at the beach!

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  Happy 2018 to one and all! As I took a quick look at my column from January of 2017 for some historical reference, it occurs to me that little has changed on the political front since then – aside from some White House bills to undo all that was accomplished by the previous administration.  I wrote about the possibility of coming unrest, of my wishes for a political climate that cools down, and for a nation that embraces some sense of civility and genuine understanding and concern for others.  Unfortunately, in many ways the temperature has risen and contentious factions have surfaced with a vengeance.  So, we embark on a 2018 journey that still promises uncertainty and discord.  Fortunately, we Avilones get to live in a wonderful place among some wonderful people.  We are not without controversy, but we know how to work things out through cohesiveness and process. So lucky we are!
           
 The end of one year is always a good time for the “Foundation” to look back at highlights of the previous year.  Our list, in somewhat chronical order includes; (1) the unveiling of the Avila Beach Public Art Project mural on the lifeguard towers; (2) establishment of the Avila Beach Trails Improvements Fund – courtesy of Cyndy & Steve Lakowske; (3) first showing of the “History of Avila” short film sponsored by the “Foundation” at the 2017 SLO Film Festival; (4) recruitment of two new Trustees – Cyndy Lakowske and Ellen Pitrowski; (5) launch of the campaign to raise funds for Avila Beach Public Art Phase II; (6) hosting of the first ever Avila Beach Storyteller’s Night; (7) awarding of grants totaling $64,590 for thirteen Avila Beach agencies and projects; (8) reaching the $25,000 fundraising goal to begin work on Public Art Phase II project in 2018 – thanks to the initial challenge pledges of County Supervisor Adam Hill and the Sara Horne Art Fund; (9) creation of the Proud Avilone license plate frame. 
 
      Moving forward, we enter the new year with some changes in our leadership.  Retiring after five years as a devoted Trustee – two as Board President – is Rick Rowe.  His calm and thoughtful demeanor will be missed.  Returning for her second year as Board President is Lisa Ritterbuck, as Vice President is Michael Ginn, as Treasurer is Richard Zacky, and stepping into the role of Secretary is Gary Maier.  Rounding out our 2018 Board of Trustees are Bev Aho, Lucinda Borchard, Saul Goldberg, Cyndy Lakowske, Percy Jones, Paul Prather, Ellen Pitrowski and Brooke Salvini.  Our staff remains intact – myself as Executive Director going into year number ten, and valued Project Specialist Paula Dempsey, beginning her third full year in that capacity.  Much of this year will be devoted to the next Public Art Project, and another community engagement or educational event will be announced in a few months.
 
Earlier in this column I mentioned the “Avila Beach Trails Improvement Fund”, a Donor Advised Account established by Cyndy and Steve Lakowske.  With a purpose to build new trails in Avila Beach, or improve existing ones, the Lakowskes seek other like-minded trail enthusiasts to join them on their quest.  If you wish to participate in some trail-blazing discussions, let me know and I’ll pass along your name and contact information.  I also wish to take this opportunity to invite other Avilones to consider the possibility of establishing your own special purpose Donor Advised Fund.  Doing so is a wonderful way to support your community, help pass along your visions, and receive an immediate charitable gift tax deduction.  I am always happy to discuss the options.
 
As is quite often the case, I again pass along some information gleaned from the most recent Avila Valley Advisory Council meeting.  In December, shortly after the rise of devastating fires in Santa Barbara, Ventura and Los Angeles Counties, AVAC attendees heard the plea from Cal Fire Battalion Chief Paul Lee that we take the time to peer upward at the power poles in our neighborhoods, and look for any dangerous, leaning trees that could result in downed power lines during wind or rain storms.  These could lead to the spread of wildfires, and should be reported immediately to Cal Fire before they become a problem.  And, as always, I encourage everyone to attend some of the AVAC meetings to learn more about and become involved in our community.  It’s a happening place. 

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

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  With Thanksgiving behind us it’s now time for everyone to focus on the December holidays. Purchase and wrap those presents, decorate your home, prepare to host guests or finalize travel plans, and fight increased traffic on our roads and at our shopping centers.  Lots of fun, eh?  I can feel the stress coming, but I do welcome the overall good cheer and togetherness that accompanies the chaos.  Plus, I look forward to enjoying whatever gifts come my way, and seeing the joy of others in the gifts they are given.  I’ll even offer some smiles and laughs in the direction of my wife and her relentless dressing up of our beloved and so popular dog, Dodger.
 
In the spirit of gift giving, this is always the time of year when I get to announce the good news – that being the recipients of “Foundation” grants for the coming year.  At our November meeting, thirteen grants were awarded, totaling $64,590.  Beneficiaries for 2018 funding are 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, Bellevue-Santa Fe Charter School and the Surfrider Foundation.  Plus, we will continue to support the Free Avila Trolley and home delivery of the Avila Beach News.  For details about grant recipients and their specific programs, I invite you to visit our website – www.avilabeachfoundation.org.
 
I am pleased to provide even more good news for Avila Beach public art lovers.  As you know, the “Foundation” has been on a several months quest to raise enough money to launch a second round of public art for our beach community.  Our goal was $25,000.  We have now reached that goal!!!!  I can’t say “thank you” enough times to County Supervisor Adam Hill for his initial $5,000 challenge pledge, and to our friends at Chevron and the Sara Horne Art Fund for being the first to answer the challenge with generous donations of their own.  Following that, nearly four dozen Avilones displayed their generosity by contributing to the cause – spurred on by the gift of our limited edition “Proud Avilone” license plate frames.  We have decided to continue with the campaign to raise even more funds throughout the holiday season, which could enable us to expand the scope of Public Art Phase II.  Look for the holiday flyer below (or in the print version of Avila Beach News), that encourages folks to gift their Avila neighbors with our cool license plate frames for the price of a donation of any size.  Quantities are limited, so don’t miss out.
 
Here’s some “illuminating” news or perhaps an observation.  It’s an “observation” if the County has finally installed the long-awaited-for street lights at the San Luis Bay Drive and Ontario intersection, which at the time of this writing was scheduled for November 28th.   It’s “news” if we are soon to see the work completed.  We really have the Avila Valley Advisory Council to thank for lobbying behind the scenes for more than one year, imploring County Public Works to address the safety concerns and dangerous conditions at this intersection.  There have been so many accidents and near misses at this ill-conceived web of on and off ramps we have cautiously had to navigate for years, one has to wonder why it took the local government wheels so long to turn. Nevertheless, I offer my sincere thanks to AVAC and SLO County for making our lives a little safer. 
 
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, caring and helpful 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.  I am dedicating this month’s column to the memories of Avila past, or some might say Avila lost.  It was with no absence of sentiment – alternating between laughter, sadness and melancholy – that more than 100 of us sat during the Foundation’s Avila Storyteller’s Night event on October 20th as witness to some very personal and passionate tales of Avila lore – some dating back as early as the 1940s and 1950s.  I enjoyed that evening, listening to stories of children growing up in Avila during World War II; of parents sending their kids to the beach to be watched over by friendly lifeguards; of businesses long since gone that catered to a grateful and loyal patronage; of a community infused with residents from all walks of life simply thrilled to be living the dream at the beach; of fishing and oil industries no longer present; of shores filled with abalone shells, of softball games pitting youth against youth, of corporate-backed baseball teams; of caring, engaged and watchful neighbors, of heroism in the face of what turned out to be a deadly shark attack.  Perhaps one of the most poignant stories told was of the infamous oil contamination discovery that led to the town’s ultimate remake and permanent alteration of character – for better or for worse.
 
We all have memories of growing up in various places that echo a theme that resonated on Storyteller’s Night - simpler times, safer times when we seemed to know our neighbors more intimately than we do now. Perhaps it was the ballgames with our friends at the end of the cul-de-sac, or summer evening block parties that brought residents together to share hot dogs, hamburgers and potato salad, or walking to and from school without fear of predators, blending with others from different economic status, and the feeling that we were all in this together.  Hearing the stories and recollections of others brought me back to my own past, as I’m sure it did others in the room.  As I looked around I recognized folks with deep Avila roots – people I know mostly in passing and from whom I’ve heard an anecdote or two over the years.  And I recognized a great many others who, like me, are transplants from places near and far. 
 
The San Fernando Valley in which I was raised during the 50s and 60s bears no resemblance to what is today very little open space, long-vanished orange groves and dairy farms, cities that spill across borders and traffic backed up on all main arteries dominating the scene.  I cannot go back.  Leaving the Valley in 1982 I ventured to Irvine, which at the time reminded me of the San Fernando Valley of my youth.  Lots of open space, orange groves, few traffic lights, and a university not yet the behemoth it has become.  In the relative blink of an eye that all changed as money and developers poured into the area much like an avalanche.  I no longer recognized the Irvine I thought would bring me the peace and sense of belonging I lost once before.  I cannot go back.  By the end of the 80s it was time to leave again – time to find another world more simple, safer, kinder, less corporate and less “every man/woman for him/herself.”  First it was Los Osos, then Avila Beach, that offered that re-birth.  There was, and in most cases still is, lots of open space, cities with distinct and complimentary borders and personalities, and neighbors not so concerned with another person’s socio-economic status.  Yes, it’s that sense of belonging.  But many parts of SLO County have changed - perhaps none more than the small stretch of a jewel known as “downtown” Avila Beach. 
 
My wife and I moved to San Luis Bay Estates in 1995 – shortly before downtown Avila was to be razed.  It was an odd grouping of businesses, homes and individuals awaiting our stops at the beach.  It was so different than what life in my adult years had become that, looking back, I did not fully appreciate Avila for what it was.  I was so consumed with work, playing softball, tennis and golf that I hardly noticed what was happening to “funky” Avila.  One minute it was there, and the next minute it was gone. Sadly, we cannot go back.  On October 20th we heard the stories and felt the loss. But I am grateful that there are still among us those who lived here in the good old days.  I want to thank our storytellers for sharing and caring.  Hats off to Archie McLaren, Kirt Collins, Denny Wheeler, Pete Kelley, Saro Rizzo, Jean Nanney, Hardie Phillips, Lucy and Colleen Gnos, Dick Kelsey, Mike Harkness, Howard Nicholson and Anne Brown for reminding us that the past had so much meaning, and special thanks to County Supervisor Adam Hill and Pacific Gas and Electric Company for sponsoring the first ever Avila Beach Storyteller’s Night.  Stay tuned for the opportunity to see a now under production video that was taped that evening. 

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

Greetings, fellow Avilones.  Fall is now upon us, NFL and NCAA football games are dominating weekends for many fans, Cal Poly is back in session and our “sleepy” beach town is returned to our possession for months to come.  Before we know it the winter holiday season will be underway, so, as sang Sonny and Cher, “The Beat Goes On.”

The Avila Beach Storytelling Night is only a couple weeks away (October 20th), and by the time you read this newsletter it is likely that all seats will have been reserved.  But just in case you hope to attend and have yet to register, visit our website and look for the event link.  Even if we are full, place your name on the waiting list because past history tells me that free events of this nature often see some folks canceling at the last minute for whatever reason.  Foundation Project Specialist Paula Dempsey is hard at work finalizing our line-up of Storytellers, and former Foundation Trustee Carolyn Morton is whipping up a menu of delectable desserts to be served that evening.  There will even be a no-host wine bar for those who like to enjoy a little “grape” juice with their sweets.  Whatever you wind up having for dinner that night, be sure to leave some room for dessert!  Thanks again to Pacific Gas & Electric and County Supervisor Adam Hill for sponsoring this special event, thus enabling the Foundation to offer it to our fellow Avilones free of charge. Oh, and by the way, if you are interested in brushing up on some Avila Beach History, take a few moments to download the Avila Beach History App on your iPhone or Smartphone.

Our Campaign to fund Phase II of Avila Beach Public Art has now surpassed the $20,000 plateau! This has truly been a group effort – meaning at this point 40 donors have generously stepped up to support the 2018 project. Heartfelt thanks to the following for their contributions:  County Supervisor Adam Hill, Chevron Corporation, Sara & Boyd Horne, Mary & Marty Berry, Vicki & David Book, Jim Sargen, Archie McLaren, Lucinda Borchard, Joan Sargen, Lucy Gnos, Anonymous Donor, Bev Aho, Cyndy & Steve Lakowske, Avila Bay Athletic Club, Paul & Jackie Prather, Rick & Kay Cohen, Lisa Newton, Lynn Walter, Debbie Peterson, Bruce & Sandy Brandenburg, Joan & Doug Carlson, Bill Boyce, Michael Terry, Joe Shepard, Anne Brown, Jennifer Scarano, Mary El & Warren Hansen, Jim & Betty Hartig, Tom & Sharon Rippner, Bev Henry, Chris Beard, Ed & Carolyn Labanara, Sandra Smith, Marya Malinowski, Diane Pieron, Ken & Nancy Thompson, Eric & Chris DeWeese, Joy Owens, Mike Rudd, and Steve Johnson.  It’s not too late to add your name to this list by contributing to the cause.  The more money generated, the greater the artwork possibilities. Those of you readers who have enjoyed the murals on the Avila Beach Lifeguard Towers will surely want to see what comes next.  Send your check in any amount to Avila Beach Community Foundation – PO Box 297, Avila Beach, 93424 - and receive your limited edition, Proud Avilone license plate frame as a token of appreciation.

Grants Are Us – at least it feels like that during the final quarter of each year as the Foundation processes funding applications and awards grants for a variety of organizations and projects. 2017 is no exception as our Trustees mull over requests from twelve applicants seeking a combined sum of roughly $80,000.  Interviews of new applicants take place this month, and decisions are made by the Foundation Trustees at a meeting in November.  I have to admit that I really enjoy this aspect of Foundation work, i.e. being able to help provide valuable grant support for worthy programs and projects.  It’s quite a departure from the several decades I spend as a grant-seeker, which is a highly competitive endeavor that usually results in more rejections than approvals.  Thank goodness that is behind me now.  Award recipients will be announced in the December issue of Avila News.

Odds & Ends:  If you’ve spent any time in your car driving around SLO and South County, you have surely noticed a great deal of road repairs and improvements underway.  Hopefully by the time you read this newsletter the slurry-seal work scheduled for several Avila Beach streets has been completed, leaving us with shiny new roads to traverse. In the category of better late than never, discussions have been taking place about the possibility of re-introducing a special Avila Trolley stop at the San Luis Bay Estates, Avila Village location. Up until a couple years ago, just such a stop made it very convenient for SLBE residents to hop on the Trolley for a fun trip to the beach and back, but we lost that stop due to some opposition from Village business owners concerned about parking issues.  We may have found a way around the problem, and would appreciate some feedback from locals who would ride the Trolley if the former convenience returned.  What say you?

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

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