Monthly News from the OB Community Foundation

September 2024

Welcome back to your OB Community Foundation monthly update!

Last Saturday, our Pancake Breakfast fundraiser at Saratoga Park was a wonderful morning of community connection and delicious eats! We were treated to the smooth sounds of the Preston Lang Jazz Quartet while savoring a mouth-watering breakfast.

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us, and especially to our amazing volunteers who made it all possible! Your dedication and energy are what make the OB community so strong and vibrant. We're grateful for each and every one of you!

From left to right: Ashley Carrino (OB Pancake Breakfast Lead), OBCF Board Directors: John Carleton, Jenny Brengelman, Gary Gartner, Anna Firicano, Nicole Murray, Karen Froehner, and Shelly Parks.

And the fun doesn't stop here! We're already gearing up for our next community celebration: The Taste of OB! Mark your calendars for October 22nd and get ready to indulge in the best flavors of Ocean Beach. We can't wait to see you there!

Join the Environmental Justice Workgroup 

This is an exciting new advisory group committed to advancing climate solutions and community-driven solutions led by the County's Office of Sustainability and Environmental Justice (OSEJ).

In addition to collaborating with others who care about people and the environment, members receive $150 per meeting and training opportunities. To support participation, language interpretation and translation services are available. 

Update from Congressman Scott Peters’ Office

Washington’s Update

  • Homeless Services Funding: Congressman Peters and colleagues urged HUD to accelerate the timeline for finalizing a new formula for allocating federal homeless service dollars, addressing San Diego's disproportionately low funding despite having the 8th largest homeless population.

  • Housing Crisis Solution: Congressman Peters led colleagues in urging DOT to streamline office-to-residential conversions, which could add supply and ease housing costs, especially near transit projects.

San Diego’s Update

  • Tijuana River Pollution Crisis: Congressman Peters joined colleagues to announce the Border Water Quality Restoration and Protection Act, aiming to combat sewage pollution through coordinated federal, state, and local efforts.

  • South Bay Wastewater Treatment Plant: Congressman Peters toured the plant with officials, highlighting progress toward fixing the broken facility and addressing environmental concerns.

  • Service Academy Nominations: Applications are now open for 2024, with a deadline of October 18th. Students can apply here.

Upcoming Community Events in Ocean Beach

Ping Pong Showdown - Battle for the Paddle

The annual OB Woman's Club Ping Pong Tournament, Battle for the Paddle, takes place on Friday, September 27th.

Current champion Kevin Hastings will defend his two-year title, competing for the coveted Golden Paddle and WWE-style Championship Belt, sponsored by Skrewball Whiskey.

All proceeds of the Ping Pong Tournament go to support local philanthropic endeavors of the Ocean Beach Woman’s Club.

Wine Tasting for a Cause

Wine enthusiasts won't want to miss Jensen's October Wine Tasting benefiting Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry.

Held at All Souls Episcopal Church on October 17th, this event requires a $30 donation per person (100% of proceeds benefit the food pantry).

Savor chef-prepared appetizers and sample fine wines, available at special one-day-only pricing for those who wish to place orders. Tickets are available online or in-store.

Support a great cause and indulge in a delightful evening out!

Paws in the Street

Of all the places to host North America’s largest dog festival they chose our beloved Ocean Beach!

This free event with treats, food, toys, loads of free swag is a fundraiser for the Just Love Animals Society.

Come together and make OB shine on Sunday, October 13th, Noon to 4:00pm on Voltaire Street (between Cable and Bacon).

Get Ready for Holiday Magic in OB!

Last Year’s OB Holiday Tree Installation

It's that time of year again! The OB Community Foundation is excited to start planning for our beloved crooked holiday tree at the end of Newport Avenue. Every year, a generous neighbor donates a tree that adds a touch of whimsy to our beachfront.

We're on the hunt for this year's perfect tree! Do you have a tree on your property that's posing a risk and needs removal? The OB Community Foundation will cover the costs of cutting, removal, and transportation.

Here are the important dates:

  • October 5: Donated tree submission deadline

  • December 3: Tree cutting and installation

If you're interested in donating your tree, email our President, Shelly Parks, ASAP!

Even if it's not the right time this year, let us know if you'd like to be added to our future tree contacts list.

Thank you for helping make OB's holiday season bright and beautiful 🎄.