By Theresa-Marie Wilson
Christmas has come and gone, but the spirit is still alive in Pismo Beach. Long time business owners who have been a played a part in making the holiday season a memorable one for hundreds of children were recently recognized by the Pismo Beach City Council.
Tony and Marcia Spinelli received a proclamation in recognition of their volunteer efforts and contributions as sponsors of the Santa’s House for the city’s annual Holiday Harmony event for the past 16 years.
“All of the memories and the photographs have just been wonderful,” said Mayor Shelly Higginbotham.
The proclamation thanked the couple for their “contributions and dedication in making a positive impact on the children in our community.”
The Spinellis own Beach Bum Holiday Rentals, off Dolliver and Pomeroy, where they held the first Santa’s House before combining efforts with the city and the Pismo Beach Chamber of Commerce and opened up the parking lot for the annual holiday event that includes a tree lighting, fresh snow, a bounce house, carolers, crafts and cookie decorating.
“After the first year with the city coming on board and then the chamber, it was a blessing,” said Tony Spinelli. “It’s all about the kids and putting a smile on their faces. For a lot of those little kids, the little goodie bags and the pictures, were the only things some of them got for the whole holiday season. It’s hard to believe that.”
The Spinellis were presented with a plaque and a large candy cane as a tribute to their part in the annual holiday festivities.
