Former Half Moon Bay Mayors Named SMC's 'Veterans Of The Year'

HALF MOON BAY, CA — The Peninsula is honoring two former mayors of Half Moon Bay as Veterans of the Year, selected by the San Mateo County Veterans Commission for their "unwavering commitment to service."

Al Adreveno is a World War II veteran who celebrated his 100th birthday this year and has been a Half Moon Bay community member for more than 70 years. According to the county, Adreveno was a member of the Army Corps of Engineers and served on an elite team in the Philippines before returning home and getting involved in the flower business. Over the years he served as mayor, and sat on the city council, Coastside County Water District, County Farm Bureau and Half Moon Bay Chamber of Commerce.

John Muller, Adreveno's son-in-law, is the second man being honored this year, having served in Vietnam as part of the U.S. Navy. Muller also trained for emergency pickup of the Gemini capsule. Officials note he is known to many in the community as "Farmer John," operating Daylight Farms and the Highway 1 pumpkin patch. He served on the city council and two terms as mayor, sitting on several boards and commissions related to agriculture. Muller's other community service includes involvement with a service dog program, July 4th parades, and the Pumpkin Festival.

Adreveno and Miller both will be honored during the 8th Annual Veterans Recognition Luncheon on Nov. 9 at the Westin in Millbrae.

The commission also honored Peggy Toye as its "Patriot of the Year," a disction for non-veteran residents who serve veterans and their families. Tyoe is the president of the American Legion Auxilary District 26 and a longtime volunteer for veterans and related causes, including organizing annual events, gift bags for VA Hospital [patients, shopping cookies to troops overseas and "Adopt-a-Vet" holiday gifts. Her grandfather served in World War I and her father in the Korean War.

The non-profit PGA Hope Norcal was recognized as "Enterprise of the Year." Meeting in Foster City, the organization helps veterans stay mentally, socially and physically healthy through the game of golf.

"We see again and again that our military veterans may take off the uniform but never stop serving their community when they come home — an unwavering commitment to service," said Warren Slocum, a county supervisor and Vietnam veteran. "We see the promise our nation makes to support our veterans fulfilled with the tireless energy that Peggy Toye and PGA Hope brings to our community."