Avila Beach Life • July 2023

Summer is upon us, and with it comes the quintessential charm of Avila Beach—the warmer weather, the vibrant energy of the tourist, and the beloved Annual Doggie Parade, a mustsee spectacle that embodies the joy of our community.

As we approach the Fourth of July, we also approach a poignant moment of introspection and gratitude. Independence Day is a time when we reflect on the liberties that we, as a nation, have been fortunate to inherit. As we revel in fireworks, barbecue, and camaraderie, let us also pay tribute to the tireless commitment of small businesses, the strength of our local bonds, and the unyielding spirit of the free press that we have the privilege to create and distribute.

The inception of our nation was no small feat. The forefathers of the United States, among whom was the renowned Benjamin Franklin, faced insurmountable odds. They were intellectuals, farmers, musicians, merchants, and more, each signing the Declaration of Independence knowing full well the price of their defiance - death.

Benjamin Franklin, himself a printer, encapsulated this idea in his almanac with a quote urging us to “do something worth the writing.” He understood the gravity and the cost of such actions. Franklin’s

wisdom and courage, along with the 55 other signers of the Declaration, paved the way for the life we now enjoy.

The principles inscribed in the Declaration of Independence serve as a bulwark against authoritarian tendencies. This resilient national spirit has been shaped by the trials and tribulations faced by our ancestors, including minor conflicts that eventually coalesced into the Revolutionary War. One such incident involved Benjamin Franklin, who intercepted and circulated letters from Massachusetts Governor Thomas Hutchinson advocating for the deployment of more British troops. His audacious act of defiance culminated in his involvement in the drafting of the Declaration of Independence.

As we celebrate this Fourth of July, let us remember that the concept of inalienable rights - life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness—was groundbreaking in its time and continues to shape the American ethos. The exercise of these rights does come with a cost, and each day presents us with choices that have far-reaching consequences.

In the current age, where social media amplifies every voice and debates about free speech continue, let us remember that our forefathers risked everything for the rights we often take for granted. They

believed these rights were not granted by man but by the divine, forming a higher order of justice and law.

Thus, on Independence Day, we are not merely celebrating an event in the past but recognizing the present reality that these truths remain self-evident. We celebrate our shared responsibility to uphold these rights, acknowledging the costs that come with it. Let us strive, then, not just to write things worth reading but to do things worth writing about.

Warmest wishes for a joyful summer and a reflective Independence Day. We hope you enjoy this issue of Avila Beach Life.

“Either write something worth reading — Benjamin Franklin — Through Print making communities better

or do something worth writing.”

Greetings, fellow Avilones. I begin this month’s column with the big local news some of you may have missed.

Following is a summary of the media release distributed by Eric Daniels, Senior Local Government and Public Affairs Representative for PG&E:

“In an important step to continue operating Diablo Canyon Power Plant beyond 2024-25 by direction of the state, the California State Lands Commission voted to approve Pacific Gas and Electric Company’s lease extension application related to its intake and discharge structures until 2030. While additional regulatory decisions remain ahead on the path to relicense the plant, today’s (6/5/2023) vote was a key milestone of Senate Bill 846. The

Foundation News and Views

extension of the lease supports continued operation of the intake and discharge structures that are crucial to plant operations, including the generation of electricity and cooling for components.”

In other local news, the Central Coast Aquarium has hired a new executive director in the person of Christy Kasarjian, who was born and raised on the Central Coast, spending a lot of her time by the water. After transferring from Cal Poly to Boise State University, she found solace in the mountains, just as she had with the sea. While she wanted to be closer to her family, it was not in the plans for her to move back to California until the executive director position with the Central Coast Aquarium came about.

Christy has a dynamic background, always striving to work for organizations that coincide with her love for the outdoors and bringing people together to serve the community. Working for the Forest Service in fire suppression and serving as a director for the nonprofit organization Bogus Basin Mountain Recreation & Ski Resort in Idaho fueled her need to be proactive about sustainable practices in recreation and preserving our resources. According to Christy, now that summer has arrived, the aquarium will increase its hours

of operation and is seeking more volunteers for this busy season. They do not need to be marine biologists, and not all volunteers are required to work in the exhibit hall. Anyone interested should call the Central Coast Aquarium at (805) 457-5357.

In case you weren’t able to attend, there was a very informative gathering held on May 30 at the Avila Beach Community Center, hosted by SLO County District 3 Supervisor Dawn Ortiz-Legg. With about 90 folks in attendance, Supervisor Ortiz-Legg and representatives from the SLO County Planning Department provided some background and updates regarding projects and plans relevant to the Avila Beach communities. Among the items shared were the Dunn Sailing Apartments (a new partnership has been established to determine its future), the McCarthy property project above Cave Landing (applicant has reduced the size of the proposed home and dedicated some public access space for a trail), the Samara project behind the San Luis Bay Inn (originally designed to build 50 cottages, but developer now exploring other options), and the Chevron property development project (nothing new to report, still some mitigation taking place).

Other items discussed included progress

on the long-awaited Avila Community Plan (it has been delayed once again due to staffing turnover and other long-term priorities of SLO County), Offshore Wind Industry on the Central Coast (Avila Beach unlikely to be a staging site due to limited infrastructure — Morro Bay more likely), Avila Beach Golf Resort proposed project (phased extension to include lodging, spa and larger events venue — draft EIR underway, first of 3 phases before final approval), Avila Barn (applying for a permit to host special events for up to 200 people). Disclaimer: the above two paragraphs represent my note-taking (not my strong suit) and may not be completely accurate. For full report, contact SLO County Planning Department.

Summer for the Avila Beach Community Foundation means it’s time to launch our grant-making season. Requests For Proposals (RFPs) will be announced around mid-July, and the application form will be available here at avilabeachfoundation.org. The Foundation has awarded more than 200 grants to agencies, programs and projects, and has surpassed $3 million in monies distributed since 2001. That’s it for now, fellow Avilones. See you at the beach!

Slow Train a Comin’

You may have waited by the railroad tracks in your younger years, watching a train far off in the distance, as it appeared to be slowly approaching the crossing. It was awesome to feel and see the huge, rumbling, metal cars as they raced past and made their way into the distance. Seemed like it took forever to finally arrive and then it seemed to be gone just as quickly.

That’s the way I look at our current state of the economy. Rumblings of a recession have been slowly approaching for months. Data such as continuing and initial unemployment claims are spiking at percentage rates that have always coincided with recessions.* Commercial loan activity has fallen dramatically^, the interest rate curve is highly inverted (short term rates much higher than long term rates)^* and the prime rate has spiked to 8.25%.^^ These types of metrics have consistently coincided with recessions.

But, it appears we aren’t there yet. In general, people are still spending freely and, as I type (June 13th), the stock market is rocketing upward, which goes to show one shouldn’t invest based on current data. My bet is we will get a recession and a subsequent pullback. Of course, “price” will always be the guide.

In this era of high interest and high inflation, maybe it’s time to review your investments to see if you are prepared for the next 5 years, which will most certainly be different than the last 5. One can link gains to the major stock indexes while reducing one’s risks substantially.*^ Fixed rates of 5%+ are also available. To learn more, please visit our website and/or call for a 15 minute no obligation, no fee discussion.

interest accounts and strategies linked to gains in the indexes with reduced^^ or no risk

• High net worth tax and income planning including de-ferred comp type plans using COLI

Rick Cohen avila beach foundation

A View From the Beach

Some days it is hard to get started when you have so many things to do. However, I am very lucky that I have my sweet little Rudy sitting under my desk so that I stay at my computer since I don’t want to disturb his rest. Silly though that may sound, but it works for me … and I bet there are others who can identify. That being said, I am happy to tell you about our upcoming 4th of July Pancake Breakfast and my favorite event each year, our Doggie Parade!

Our Avila Beach Civic Association’s annual 4th of July Pancake Breakfast is being held on Tuesday, July 4, from 8:30 to 11 a.m. at the Avila Beach Community Center, 191 San Miguel Street. You can enjoy your breakfast in the community center or at the tables in our Healing Garden with puppy sitters for pet lovers to eat their breakfast

prior to the parade. Tickets will be available online and at the door. Our annual Doggie Parade will follow at 11 a.m. on the Avila Beach Promenade and a Boat Parade will begin at 12 p.m. sponsored by the San Luis Yacht Club.

To walk in our Doggie Parade, all dogs must be registered and checked in. All participants will be judged for Best Costume, Best Dog/Owner Look Alike, Best Holiday Theme, Funniest, and Best in Show. Each participant will receive a doggie treat bag from Petco Arroyo Grande and will entertain all who come to watch. Please contact me at (805) 627-1997 or avilabeachcc@gmail.com with any questions and to get involved or check out our website avilabeachcc.com. See you on the 4th!

I want to remind you that the San Luis Obispo County Public Health Department gave us 100 COVID-19 test kits for distribution to members of our community. If you are interested in receiving any of these test kits, please let me know and you can pick them up in our office. Thanks and have a great and safe month.

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

Dr. Yelena Lapidus

By MARY FOPPIANO For

Dr. Yelena Lapidus started her medical career in Europe in the family gynecology business. Yelena was outstanding in many facets of life before entering medical school: She was a scholar and embraced many sports competing as a cross-country skier, runner, swimmer, and fin swimmer. She also played piano and has danced every day of her life.

As she grew older, she did some modeling and even co-owned a disco as she was going through school. She maintained highest grades throughout her studies. She graduated with honors from medical school after forsaking her outside activities in order to put total focus on studying and subsequently on her residency. She completed her residency at the young age of 25. She immigrated to the U.S. to be married to her good friend while he was serving in the U.S. Navy and they had their wonderful son Nicholas.

When Nick grew old enough, Yelena tackled a new residency that was required for her to practice medicine in the U.S. Her residency was in family practice with obstetrics in a rural setting. She quickly learned the drawbacks in the family medicine system in which she worked and vowed to find a better way to help patients with a functional and regenerative medicine approach. She became a member of the World Hormonal Society, joined a mastership in anti-aging medicine in Europe, and shortly after that an anti-aging and regenerative medicine fellowship in the U.S. She got her board certification in this specialty right after her family medicine board certification, which was her third one at age 38.

Since finishing her residency, Yelena earned two more certifications in regenerative and anti-aging medicine as well as completing 22 additional certifications and fellowships. From bio-identical hormones, genetics, and the microbiome, to neurotherapy and infectious diseases and beyond, she never stops learning. She uses the most cutting-edge diagnostic testing that there is today and keeps up with the best technology by dedicating her life to continuing to learn. She does all of this for one reason — to help every patient be pain and disease free to achieve their best, healthy life. Medicine is ever-evolving and continuously providing us with a better understanding of the human body and mind.

Yelena founded The Lapidus Clinic and

Med Spa, which is a unique personalized concierge medical practice and full-service med spa that is specifically designed to help patients live their healthiest lives. Prolonging their patients’ lifespan has been made possible thanks to their own proprietary program developed of the last 15 years called “The Lapidus Method.” They use personalized precision medicine based on individual genomics, cell science, and advanced diagnostics to promote healthy longevity. Thanks to their work in the field, they have been able to provide each patient with the best possible roadmap for living a long and healthy life with a sharp brain, strong immune system, and heart while also maintaining great energy levels.

The Lapidus Clinic operates on several key elements to ensure that its patients and concierge members are living healthier lives.

The Lapidus Method starts with state-of-

the-art diagnostics, from mapping the brain to bio-identical hormones to testing every major system in the body. They also include the latest cardiovascular, genetic, and cancer prevention testing. The foundation for this method is to never settle for just treating symptoms but to always find the root cause of any health problem so that they can properly fix it.

The Lapidus Clinic implements what is the future of family medicine today to improve their patient’s lives with every member having a custom health plan, direct 24/7 access to clinic for emergency/urgent care, enhanced coordination of referrals and specialist visits, and discounts on med spa treatments and products, vitamins, supplements, and other essential products.

The Lapidus Clinic and Med Spa now offers a comprehensive Functional Integrative Medical Program member -

ship for their patients in the San Luis Obispo and Avila Beach area. The med spa offer advanced treatments and experienced cosmetic RN services for anti-aging results. The program of individualized, integrated care, led by Emily Dantes, NP, is in keeping with the overall Lapidus Clinic mission of personalized medicine for healthy longevity. These functional and integrative programs are extensive and beyond the scope of normal and customary care covered by insurance.

Emily Dantes started her career in healthcare 17 years ago from the bottom up, first as a nurse’s aide, then as a registered nurse, and finally as a family nurse practitioner. Throughout her many experiences in hospital wards, long-term care facilities, and home health settings, she developed a passion for health optimization to prevent disease because it occurs with a focus on feasible lifestyle changes and simplified health modifications that make big impacts. In meeting Dr. Lapidus, Emily found a kindred soul with the desire to promote patient health, vitality, and longevity using the most up-todate research and state-of-the-art developments in health care to date.

After moving to the Central Coast to partner with Dr. Lapidus, Emily has been pleasantly surprised and profoundly grateful to find she was welcomed with the friendly smiles and open arms of residents in Avila Beach and the San Luis Obispo areas. With her belief that exercise should be fun, she was quickly immersed in the many dance groups, camping, and hiking events the Central Coast has to offer. In her downtime, Emily enjoys dancing various styles of dance, including some latin, ballroom, country western, and swing. She loves to spend time with her kids and 2-year-old Goldendoodle exploring the outdoors, finding new cuisines to try, curling up with a good book, and deep conversations with good friends over coffee … and looking forward to sharing many of these experiences with new friends here.

As busy as she is, Dr. Lapidus also loves to dance at every chance she gets and to play golf, which is her new passion, with her new husband, Gary Brown.

Please join Dr. Lapidus and Emily Dantes on Tuesday, July 11, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Avila Beach Community Center to learn more about The Lapidus Clinic, The Lapidus Method, and reversing diabetes. For more information, please call Chad Lamon at (805) 608-1195.

Avila Beach Life

Mary Foppiano Avila Beach Civic Association

Dr. Yelena Lapidus is the founder of The Lapidus Clinic and Med Spa in Avila Beach, which is a unique personalized concierge medical practice and full-service med spa that is specifically designed to help patients live their healthiest lives. Contributed Photo

Scarlett & Paisley Are Pets Of The Month

By MARY FOPPIANO

Scarlett is known for her travels and fun antics, as well as philanthropy. Scarlett’s pet parent, Michelle, has joined forces with some other amazing Instagram dogs and uses Scarlett’s celebrity status to help animal rescues and shelters in need all across the world. Her family, which consists of sister Paisley and Michelle and Matt Smith, travel full-time across California and many other states.

Scarlett was born in 2015 with a deformed spine and, just in the last year, has had three surgeries, including two spinal surgeries, but her fighting spirit and sassy but always positive nature make her so fun to watch.

The family also does many meet-and-greets and aims to show the world that disabilities should not mean a death sentence for dogs. Special needs pets make wonderful companions for the right family. With the nonprofit CFDDA, along with many amazing friends, they are changing the world for dogs in a positive way.

Scarlett and Paisley, who were the 4th of July Best Costume winners for last year, will be available for a meet and greet prior to the Doggie Parade on July 4. Anyone who comes to meet them or follows Scarlett on social media will get a Scarlett sticker…and hopefully will tell their friends about two amazing dogs.

Joint committee on fisheries & aquaculture holds hearing

Inclusive meeting brings out varying opinions on wind power and its effects on fish, jobs, and local communities

By BLAKE ASHLEY FRINO-GERL For Avila Beach Life

In December, the federal government leased five offshore wind areas along California’s coast, including three off the coast of San Luis Obispo County. There was a hearing with the joint committee on fisheries and aquaculture to hold offshore wind at the State Capitol on May 17.

“This first-of-its-kind hearing will bring all sides of the offshore wind discussion together, ensuring the state can expedite the deployment of this valuable energy resource while protecting the interests of California’s storied fishing fleet and guaranteeing coastal environmental safeguards,” said District 2 Senator Mike McGuire. “It’s critical to have these voices at the same table as we develop the roadmap for offshore energy, healthy oceans and a thriving fishing fleet to co-exist here in the Golden State.”

In addition to the wind deployment and fish protection, focus is put on jobs, training programs, and tribal and local communities. They are focused on obtaining “new green power generation facilities,” McGuire said.

BY JAMES BRESCIA, ED.D. SLO County Superintendent

Federal and state agency representatives, tribal leaders, offshore wind industry and fishery representatives, as well as people from labor and environmental industries, were included in the hearing.

Jennifer Miller from Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) hopes to make offshore wind energy a reliable source for “renewable energy in a thoughtful manner that minimizes conflicts with other ocean uses.” She said BOEM is drafting to “mitigate impacts to fisheries in the areas of project siting, design, navigation, access safety and financial compensation.” It is also important to BOEM that there is no indication of hazardous intrusion on animal life.

Jenn Eckerle, the deputy secretary for oceans and coastal policy for natural resources and executive director of the Ocean Protection Council (OPC), said her group’s primary role is to “ensure that the best available science is informing” their decisions and identify suitable areas for offshore wind that maximizes wind and energy off the coast, but also minimize the impacts to marine life, habitats, fisheries, the communities and environment.”

Eckerle said they are using an offshore wind energy model platform, which provides a mapping interface that can be used by “stakeholders and decision-makers to help identify appropriate areas for offshore wind development.”

Elizabeth Huber, director for the Siting,

Transmission and Environmental Protection (STEP) Division at the California Energy Commission, says STEP will work with the state and federal partners, as well as industry and environmental organizations, and fisheries and tribal communities “to advance common interests and shared values.”

Senior Environmental Scientist for the California Coastal Commission Holly Wire said “It is important to us that this group is inclusive and we are looking forward to working with BOEM to get the working group started.” She added that “monitoring adaptive impacts in the ocean is critical to the success of offshore wind on the West Coast.”

It is also important for them to get the information they need, as well as working with all the groups, including fishing commission in a relevant time period for decision making.

Tom Hafer, president of the Morro Bay Commercial Fisherman’s Organization, attended the hearing with his wife. He said that he really just wants AB 286 to not take out the “industry-to-industry agreement” that they worked so hard for in Morro Bay and Port San Luis.

His wife noted that while on a cruise around the United Kingdom, they saw a vast amount of wind turbines in the ocean and hoped that wouldn’t happen to California’s coast. Then after speaking to U.K. citizens, they learned energy bills were five times

EDUCATION

higher with the wind turbines. She went on to imply that there will be devastation financially, as well as too small of ports that would result in costing taxpayers billions of dollars. She also stated how the environment, marine life, and commercial fisheries would be negatively affected.

Vice Chairman of the Yurok tribe Frank Myers said that it is crucial for offshore winds to create a “net positive for our citizens,” understanding there will be negative impacts.

Myers said that “some of those impacts can be mitigated, some of those impacts simply cannot be mitigated.” However, “it is important to know and see ourselves in this conversation,” Myers added.

The Yurok tribe is in support of offshore wind and it is because they have yet to see what it exactly looks like, and will hold their opinions while the planning is being developed.

“The goal is only the goal as long as it works within our environment … and benefit the ecosystem … and as long as there are no impacts that we can’t mitigate,” Myers said.

McGuire prides California in including stakeholders and ensuring their voices are heard.

“We got to get this right,” he concluded. “We can learn from the mistakes we’ve seen in other regions of this country and throughout the world.”

Not your parents’ summer school

Workplace learning is a tool used by businesses to staff and maintain effectiveness. Current research indicates that the workplace might be one of the best places to learn about successful employment. Employees or potential employees respond positively to opportunities designed to acquire new skills to obtain additional work skills that lead to employment. This month’s article discusses the current partnerships that the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education promotes between our schools, SLO Partners, and local business leaders. These partnerships are an effort to grow a local skilled workforce that wants to remain in San Luis Obispo County. The County Office of Education launched another phase of the Career and Technical Education (CTE) or local workforce development with SLO Partners, local business leaders,

and local chambers of commerce during the spring of 2023.

The three-day 2023 Summer Jumpstart program prepared high school graduates to learn career readiness, workplace communication, and customer service skills. Each participant was paid $300 for completing the program, received a service training certificate recognized by local business leaders, and was assisted in securing local employment. Sessions were held in South County, San Luis Obispo, and North County, with 25 participants in each cohort. Program directors Jennifer Clayton and Paul Piette facilitated preparing 75 young people for employment in San Luis Obispo County. Jasmine, a local Paso Robles participant in the program, expressed gratitude for the support, mentorship, and multiple opportunities to interview with local employers, resulting in employment opportunities.

Throughout the summer sessions, participants received an assessment, training, certification, interview training, and place-

ment in several San Luis Obispo County business sectors. The San Luis Obispo County Office of Education funded the cost of the classes, and the CTE Foundation provided each participant stipend. Business leaders provided access to staff to teach participants the skills required to succeed in local businesses. After the summer sessions, participants were invited to enter other apprenticeship programs with employment opportunities in San Luis Obispo County.

The SLO Partners’ mission is to engage business partners and education in aligning workforce needs with career and college pathways. This alignment helps to provide work experience opportunities to ensure that students have the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the workplace and that businesses have skilled workers required for a growing economy. SLO Partners is committed to collaborating with local businesses and education for pathways and opportunities serving local talent. Collabo-

rative training presents a prime opportunity to expand the knowledge base of potential employees without significant expenses. When collaboration occurs, employees can maximize time while attending training sessions. Partnerships such as the Pre-Apprenticeship and Apprenticeship programs invest in professional development as a positive endeavor. When education and business join forces to provide a structured training and development program, the workforce receives consistent experience and background knowledge preparation.

CTE creates value within our local economy so students and future employees gain access to training, feel appreciated, and are more likely to remain productive members of the local economy. I am proud to be part of today’s cutting-edge, rigorous, and relevant CTE programs that prepare our youth and adults for a broad range of high-wage, high-skill, and high-demand jobs. It is an honor to serve as your County Superintendent of Schools.

NEXT MONTH’S PET OF THE MONTH

Please send your pictures and a short paragraph about your pet to avilabeachcc@gmail.com Thanks, and introduce us to your furry friend next month!

Summertime! Where to enjoy it in Avila Beach

By BETTY HARTIG For Avila Beach Life

The busiest month of the season has arrived. Luckily, California has a vast array of ocean spots along the coast. Beach towels, chairs, sunscreen, snacks, and volleyballs are in tote — time for summer fun.

Avila Beach is a well-loved unincorporated community with a population of approximately 1,455. Recently, Avila was listed as the fourth-best beach town in Central California. Three hundred fifty miles of California coastline from San Francisco to Ventura County were considered. Avila received that ranking for its warmer weather, quiet life, and scenic beauty. A fabulous sought-after south-facing beach that provides more sunny days compared to other Central Coast beaches. A foggy sky in Pismo usually means searching for sunshine at Avila. Nothing compares to the sight and sound of waves on a bright summer day.

Locally, the community has added much to Avila’s welcoming environment. Its artistically painted lifeguard shacks, along with a pedestrian-friendly promenade, add character to the charming waterfront. On most summer weekends, there are often musical tunes to be heard and enjoyed. The 1,685-foot pier that juts out over the water is currently being renovated. When the repair work is completed, it will once again have families and fishers strolling down its wooden beams, an enjoyable activity to do anytime. Both residents and visitors are anxious for the pier to be open from the first plank to the last plank, allowing visitors the ability to gaze out at the horizon while standing over the water.

Adjoining the pier is the snazzy Port San Luis Yacht Club, its blue awning and trim nicely coordinate with the area. If you are fortunate to peek in or attend a Yacht Club function, the interior will not disappoint. The woodwork, nautical flags, and memorabilia are delightful to view. Avila’s nearby children’s park is an additional asset, where tykes can run around, scream with joy, and play on a variety of equipment. Where else can you climb aboard a pirate ship? Hopefully, the little ones will use plenty of energy that

might result in a quiet sleep night. We must not forget the bright blue aquarium with the colorful ocean life paintings, another favorite place for young ones to explore. Avila’s well-maintained storefronts, restaurants, and hotels are very inviting to visitors. They positively add to the overall resort appearance.

Avila Beach, as well as nearby city residents, take pride in the area. Recently, 15 Bob Jones Trail Keepers and volunteers weeded and trimmed shrubs along the Bob Jones Trail adjacent to Avila Beach Drive. This year’s abundant rainfall created growth spurts of all vegetation. Grasses, shrubs, weeds, and more weeds, grew like crazy. Who are the people that expended energy to tidy the pathway? The majority were Avila Beach residents, but Shell Beach, Pismo, and San Luis Obispo joined in. Those from neighboring cities enjoy sunny Avila, too, and are eager to participate in beautification activities.

Frequently, thoughtful community members collect litter from the beach and the Bob Jones Trail. Their attention is greatly evident and appreciated. Graffiti is quickly removed by different county agencies, the Port, or individuals simply wanting to keep the area clean and free of such vandalism. It is a well-known fact that keeping an area in good condition helps others be more responsible and conscientious of their actions.

That is not to say that the vicinity has a minimal amount of litter debris. It can be extensive. Especially throughout the summer season and holidays. Unfortunately, the more people, the greater use and abuse. However, our kindhearted local community members diligently help keep the region as pristine as possible. That same body persistently voices safety issues and development concerns, as evident from a well-attended May community town hall meeting. Avila truly is a caring district that looks out for surrounding wildlife, nature, and the entire ecosystem.

Outdoor activity by the sea is rewardingly good for the body and brain. It is a pure joy to ride a bike along the Bob Jones Pathway. The freedom of feeling the air and wind, like a bird in the sky. What can you do to help maintain a quality environment in Avila? We gently ask visitors and residents to practice courtesy on the beloved Bob Jones Trail, beach playground equipment, bathrooms, walkways, surf, and sand. Bathroom doors and walls are there for privacy purposes. Avoid the urge to use them as bulletin boards.

While riding bikes, practicing proper etiquette, such as traveling at safe speeds, alerting pedestrians when approaching, ringing a bell, or giving a heads-up shout that you are peddling and about to be in proximity, is appreciated. Trail users have had valid

JULY Calendar of Events

JULY 3 AND FIRST FRIDAY OF EACH

MONTH

ART IN THE DARK

DOWNTOWN SAN LUIS OBISPO

5-8pm

Art After Dark is a self-guided art walk that allows the community to experience visual, literary and performing art in galleries and other venues.

JULY 4

4TH OF JULY PANCAKE

BREAKFAST AND DOG PARADE

AVILA BEACH COMMUNITY CENTER/AVILA

BEACH PROMENADE

191 San Miguel Street

8:30am

Avila Beach Civic Association brings the annual 4th of July Pancake Breakfast at the Avila Beach Community Center. Tickets will be available online and at the door. The annual Doggie Parade will follow at 11 a.m. on the Avila Beach Promenade and there will be tables in the Healing Garden with puppy sitters for pet lovers to eat their breakfast prior to the parade.

concerns about bike speed, particularly regarding electric bikes. Class 1 and Class 2 electric bikes are allowed on the County Park trail. However, that does not discount safety and courtesy. If you are practicing mindful maneuvers, then hats off to you. Dog owners, please, please pick up after your pooch. Remember, there is a County Parks leash law (Ordinance 11.04.150) that should be observed. Your four-legged friend will remain safe by keeping it leashed and close to your side. You are setting a good example by responsibly sharing the pathway and making the trail enjoyable for not only yourself but for others too. Now, that creates a positive outdoor experience for everyone.

As park rangers and environmentalists often say, “Pack it in, pack it out.” Whatever you bring to the beach, lounge spots, and foot trails, be sure to take your items home with you. If you have trash, place it in the proper refuse container. Before you leave, check around to make sure you have everything. It is amazing how many shoes are left behind. Sand toys, towels, all types of gear, and beverage containers find overnight accommodations. Pick them up. No one wants to see them littering the beach. Besides, you can use them on your next trip.

Enjoy the summer. Thanks for keeping Avila Beach safe and beautiful!

Submit upcoming events to : office@13starsmedia.com

JULY 4

BLUEGRASS FREEDOM FESTIVAL

ATASCADERO LAKE PARK

4-8pm

Celebrate Independence Day lakeside under giant shady oaks with three great musical acts on an afternoon of music, food, and drinks. Music begins at 4 p.m. with the Chris Keith Band featuring songs with Brad Elijah Band, followed by Brittain and Silva, and ending with Bremen Town. Don’t forget to bring your camp chair or blanket.

JULY 4 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION AND PARADE

Downtown Templeton 7am-3pm

Get out your red, white, and bluethemed attire, and make sure you find a location where you can watch the parade before it starts. Parade starts at 10 am

JULY 7, 14, 21 AND 28

CONCERTS IN THE PLAZA

MISSION PLAZA, DOWNTOWN SAN LUIS OBISPO

5-8pm

Every Friday in the summer enjoy music in the Mission Plaza. July 7 - IMUA with John Mills, July 14 - Damon Castillo Band with Graybill, July 21 - The Molly Ringwald Project with Jody Mulgrew and July 28 - Brass Mash with Nataly Lola.

JULY 10 AND 24

MONDAY MEET UP THROOP PARK, 525 CERRO REMAULDO AVENUE, SAN LUIS OBISPO

5:30-6:30pm

Purchase food from local food trucks while enjoying music games provided by the Parks & Recreation Department.

JULY 8, 22

CONCERT SERIES

POINT SAN LUIS LIGHTHOUSE Lighthouse Road

2pm

Amazing top local talent high atop the majestic Pacific Ocean at the Central Coast’s most breathtaking venue: The Point San Luis Lighthouse in Avila Beach. These Saturday afternoon concerts are limited and will sell out, so make your purchase early to secure your spot. For more information visit visitavilabeach. com/avila-beach-events/

JULY 20

MOONLIGHT HOURS AT SLO CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 1010 NIPOMO STREET, SAN LUIS OBISPO

5-7pm

Visit the San Luis Obispo Children’s Museum for free! Free hours are a way to broaden a children’s museum’s visitor base and reach out to underserved communities. Museums can inspire the

development of new skills and interests, ignite creativity and enrich social connections. By removing financial barriers, museums and their benefactors also remove the social and academic barriers families face when they are not exposed to highquality museum experiences.

JULY 20

HISTORY

6:30-8pm

PRESENTED BY FRIENDS OF AVILA PIER Longtime SLO County resident and restaurateur Pete Kelley will reprise his recent Avila Beach history presentation, with additional focus on the Avila Pier. The event is free; more information and tickets to reserve a seat are available on the “Upcoming Events” page at AvilaPier.org.

Bob Jones Trail Keepers and other volunteers weed and trim shrubs and generally clean along the Bob Jones Trail adjacent to Avila Beach Drive. Contributed Photos

Now here is a solar program that makes a little more sense than taking up valuable farmland and making for a tough place for critters to survive, especially in dry, even not-so-farmable land. The New York Times “Califor-

GRAPEVINE Solar panels on canals

nia Today” article by Soumya Karlamangla discusses a novel idea to use land already suitable for a solar project.

Covering up the state’s canals and aqueducts with solar panels can generate renewable energy and limit a lot of evaporation from the open waterways. A new statefunded program has started to see if it would work. I suggested something similar quite a while back in this column to do the same with solar panels on the southern border walls to generate power for cameras and other surveillant equipment, plus supply power to neighboring communities on both sides of the border. Could help pay for operating costs for maintenance on the wall.

As you have driven through the state, some of you must have thought, seeing

the miles of the state water canal system, “I wonder how much evaporation, water, is being lost, especially on hot days in the San Joaquin Valley?” Solar AquaGrid, a Bay Area company that is overseeing and designing the project, says, “It’s just common sense in our eyes.” The state (us), through the California Department of Water Resources, is putting up $20 million in Stanislaus County to try out the project and see where else along the 4,000 miles of canals it would make the best sense to install these solar panels. This system is one of the largest water conveyance systems in the entire world. The collaboration includes Solar Aquagrid, the Turlock Irrigation District, and the University of California Merced researchers who will analyze and track the project.

Enjoying Summer Salads

loom) in assorted colors, cored, cut into 1 1/4-inch chunks (about 6 cups)

• 1 teaspoon (or more) coarse kosher salt

• 5 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided

• 1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 3 tablespoons chopped assorted fresh herbs (such as dill, basil, and mint)

• 6 cups fresh arugula leaves or small watercress sprigs

• 1 cup crumbled feta cheese (about 5 ounces)

It’s summer, and what could be better than a salad for lunch or dinner?

I grew up on salads with iceberg lettuce in the ‘40s and ‘50s because the varieties we have now were simply not available in local markets. Can you remember a wedge of iceberg topped with Thousand Island dressing? Today it’s wonderful to find salad greens like red leaf lettuce, romaine, escarole, butter lettuce, green leaf lettuce, radicchio, arugula and Belgian endive often offered at our markets, including our farmers markets.

To make this a “summer of salads,” I’m sharing a variety of salad recipes this month I hope will please everyone in your circle of family and friends.

• 1/2 cup sliced almonds, lightly toasted

Directions:

Combine melon and tomatoes in large bowl. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon kosher salt; let stand 15 minutes. Add 4 tablespoons of the oil, the wine vinegar, and herbs to the melon mixture. Season to taste with pepper and more salt, if desired. Toss arugula in medium bowl with remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Divide arugula among salad plates. Top with melon salad; sprinkle with feta cheese and toasted almonds and serve. Makes 6 to 8 servings

Directions:

Whisk orange juice, shallots, thyme, orange peel, and honey in medium bowl to blend. Gradually whisk in oil, then fennel bulb and fennel fronds. Season dressing to taste with salt and pepper. (Can be made one day ahead. Cover and chill. Re-whisk before using.)

Ingredients for Salad:

• 3 blood oranges or seedless oranges

• 12 cups torn assorted salad greens (such as arugula, watercress, and endive) or 1 1/2 five-ounce bags mixed baby greens

• 1 cup chopped green onions

• 2/3 cup walnuts, toasted

Directions:

Cut all peel and white pith from oranges. Working over a bowl, cut between membranes to release orange segments. Combine assorted greens, green onions, and toasted walnuts in large bowl. Drain orange segments and add to salad. Toss salad with enough dressing to coat evenly. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Makes 8 servings

This next salad is heartier and could easily be served for dinner with fresh warmed rolls.

A California study in 2021 by Solar Aquagrid determined that covering up the state’s canals with solar panels could save 63 billion gallons of water a year, which would supply the water needs for 2 million residents by cutting evaporation by a whopping 90 percent. Other good things, besides generating a lot of electric power that would replace diesel-powered irrigation pumps — improving air quality and making the system self-sustaining — would be reducing algae growth, cooling the water, and limiting maintenance that comes with hot sunlight. The project will start this fall on 250 miles of canals. Other water districts around the world, including Spain, the Philippines, and Brazil, are watching the project with hopes to maybe do the same.

(Rotisserie chicken may be used)

• 2 stalks celery, diced

• 1 cup toasted pecans, chopped

• 1 cup red grapes, quartered

• 1/4 cup fresh tarragon, chopped

Directions:

In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, lemon juice, mustard, and salt; whisk until well combined. In another medium bowl, toss together chicken, celery, pecans, grapes, and tarragon. add mayonnaise mixture, stirring to combine. Makes about 4 cups

Tomato-Watermelon Salad with Feta and Toasted Almonds

Ingredients:

• 8 cups 1 1/4-inch chunks seedless watermelon (about 6 pounds)

• 3 pounds ripe tomatoes (preferably heir-

Spring Greens with Orange-Fennel Vinaigrette

Ingredients for Vinaigrette:

1/4 cup fresh orange juice

2 tablespoons minced shallots

1 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves

2 teaspoons (packed) grated orange peel

1 teaspoon honey

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1/4 cup finely chopped fresh fennel bulb

2 tablespoons chopped fennel fronds

Tarragon Chicken Salad with Red Grapes and Pecans

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 3 cups finely chopped cooked chicken

Avocado and Grapefruit Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 heads butter lettuce, washed and torn 4 grapefruit, peeled and sectioned, juice reserved

• 4 avocados, peeled and sliced

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon leaves

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black peppercorns

Directions:

Arrange lettuce leaves on serving plates.

Top with grapefruit and avocado in an arranged order. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup reserved grapefruit juice, oil, tarragon, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over salad. Serve immediately. Makes 8 servings

Enjoy a “salad summer.” Cheers!

Barbie Butz is an independent columnist for Avila Beach Life News; you can email her at bbutz1@ outlook.com

John Salisbury contributor

“MAKE HAY WHILE THE SUN SHINES” - MIGUEL DE CERVANTE

Barbie Butz Columnist