San Diego Community Newspaper Group

PLA is an organization of residents and businesses which, since 1961, has been committed to improving the quality of life of Point Loma through beautification, education, charitable activities and civic collaboration. Today, in addition to beautifying the Peninsula, PLA represents the community through direct involvement with agencies of federal, state and local governments, the Port District, the San Diego Unified School District, the Peninsula Community Planning Board, and others who directly affect our quality of life. Born, raised and educated in Memphis, Tenn., Martin "discovered" San Diego while stationed at Camp Pendleton with the Marine Corps."I began my career in the hospitality industry while living in Ocean Beach where I enjoyed serving on the OB Town Council including two terms as its president," Martin said.Business opportunities took Martin and his wife out of San Diego for several years, until he made the decision to retire from his corporate position as regional operations director for KFC. He returned to San Diego to settle in Point Loma. "After a couple of months, I had the opportunity to purchase a struggling restaurant in Ocean Beach so along with my wife, daughter and son-in- law, we opened Shades Oceanfront Bistro," Martin said. "That was over 12 years ago." Since returning to Point Loma/Ocean Beach, Martin has become more engaged in serving the community. "I was elected to the board of the Town Council, where I served for another 10 years, including two more terms as president," he said. "For the last six years, I have served on the board of the Ocean Beach Main Street Association. Additionally, I'm serving my third year as board treasurer for the Ocean Beach Community Development Corporation." Silva is a native Point Loman and a graduate from Silver Gate Elementary, Dana Middle and Point Loma High schools. She attended SDSU and graduated from University of Missouri. After her recent retirement from US Airways, Lynn joined PLA and soon got involved with the Friday morning Mean Green Team clean-up efforts around the Point. When an opportunity to serve on the PLA board of directors came her way, she jumped at the chance. Lynn said she "loves Point Loma and cannot imagine living anywhere else." Silva hopes to get more Point Loma residents involved in the PLA to further its efforts and mission through "advocacy, fundraising and fun." Lynn is married to Frank Silva, also a native Point Loman. They have three sons and five grandchildren. Lynn's mother, Kay Rippee, lives in Loma Portal and is still going strong at age 93. Rippee taught Lynn the importance of volunteerism and getting involved to make a difference. PLA membership consists of residents and local businesses working together, donating time, effort and money to make the Peninsula a better place to live and work. Annual membership is $30. Donations at additional support levels, $1,000 platinum, $500 gold, $250 silver and $100 bronze, are also greatly appreciated.