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 As I took a quick look at my column from January of 2017 for some historical reference, it occurs to me that little has changed on the political front since then – aside from some White House bills to undo all that was accomplished by the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!
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!
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