September 15: San Diego County Meet the Hikers: Steve and Hélène
Steve Jones, 67, is a real estate agent and property manager from Rohnert Park. Steve has been active with Coastwalk since the mid-1980’s and has been on all of Coastwalks county walks except the Backbone Trail hike in Southern California. Steve has served on the Board of Directors, is currently Board Emeritus member and is recipient of the Maree Fink award, Coastwalks highest honor to a volunteer. No reservations: “I’m gung-ho”. He states that he hopes everyone will get along and enjoy each other’s company and differences. Steve says, “I want to ‘smell the roses’ and not feel we are compelled to march the distance. I would like to learn more”.
Hélène Baouendi, 67, a former high school teacher, computer specialist and real-estate agent from San Diego. Hélène says, “Being from San Diego County it’s extremely important for me to finish the hike!”
Motivations: To publicize the CCT and the mission of Coastwalk. Hélène has walked eight counties with Coastwalk prior to this summer’s big effort. Unfortunately, Hélène slipped on wet grass and broke her fibula during the walk’s first week, only returning to the walk on September 1. During the intervening time, walkers carried her walking stick so that her spirit was maintained for the whole hike.
Above right: Steve, front and back (wearing his highway safety vest); Hélène.
Below left: Hélène in the redwoods. Right: Steve is generally undeterred by the tide.