Jason Abernathy, a long-time member of our community and manager of Pura Vida Ride, is preparing to depart after a decade of work, friendship, and contribution.
His presence has become part of the daily rhythm of Town. He has been serving espressos to neighbors, biking with los Juevones on the Thursday night ride, and working alongside Rex at the shop.
We asked Jason to answer a few questions about his ten years in Las Catalinas:
- What do you love most about this place?
“I was going to say the view, but it’s the people I met here. They’re real people, super nice, compassionate, giving, and happy.” - What do you think you’ll miss most?
Between laughs, he shared: “I'll definitely miss talking to Charles in the rocking chairs that overlook the ocean, one of Town’s best spots for a great conversation.” - Describe Las Catalinas in five words:
“Beautiful, nature, welcoming, friendly, walkable.” - What’s your favorite thing to do in Town?
The answer came easily: “Biking the trails. But really, any outdoor activity, being in the water, paddleboarding, kayaking. I love the quiet.”
Half-jokingly, he said he hopes to be remembered for his great sense of humor. Then he offered a more thoughtful reflection:
“I want to be remembered as someone who led with compassion. I believe in the quiet power of kindness, and the strength in offering understanding, even when it’s hard.
I’ve chosen to live with gratitude, to appreciate what I have instead of dwelling on what I don’t. In a world that constantly chases more, I found peace in enough, and joy in the simple, everyday moments.
Above all, I believe in happiness, not as a destination, but as a way of being. My legacy isn’t built on what I owned or achieved, but on how I made people feel: seen, valued, and uplifted. If I’ve left others feeling lighter, more hopeful, or more loved, then I’ve lived well.”
And by all accounts, he has. Messages from neighbors poured in this past Friday, calling him “the best,” “an icon,” “the ice cream man,” and “a true Town legend.”
Las Catalinas and its people will sorely miss Jason, but his legacy will remain. Town is a place where lifelong friendships take root, and feeling sadness when someone leaves is just proof you’ve been in the right place with the right people.
Thank you, Jason, for bringing so much warmth to Las Catalinas. Good luck on this next chapter!