Issuu

Free

Summer 2020

Limited Edition!

Central Coast COVID-19 Resources... Topics Specifically Focused on Related Issues, Valuable Local Resources, and Helpful Tips.

Proud to partner with SLO Food Bank!

*Donate $5 or more and receive a coupon for $5 off a future purchase of $25 or more. Limit one coupon per transaction. Restrictions vary by state.

*Donate $5 or more and receive a coupon for $5 off a future purchase of $25 or more. Limit one coupon per donation. Restrictions vary by state. See store or groceryoutlet.com/donate for restrictions.

And people stayed at home And read books And listened And they rested And did exercises And made art and played And learned new ways of being And stopped and listened more deeply Someone meditated, someone prayed Someone met their shadow And people began to think differently And people healed. And in the absence of people who Lived in ignorant ways Dangerous, meaningless and heartless, The earth also began to heal And when the danger ended and People found themselves They grieved for the dead And made new choices And dreamed of new visions And created new ways of living And completely healed the earth Just as they were healed. ~ Kitty O'Meara

Navigating through the Pandemonium of this Pandemic... The world sure looks different these days. The past few months have been filled with many stressful situations. It's kind of surreal. And, while governments, businesses and society address the challenges of this global pandemic, there are valuable lessons we are collectively learning. We now know that we can transform the way we work and behave. We've learned that the health of our economy, our people and the environment are all closely linked. For example, there have been reports of jellyfish swimming in the Venice canals, where the water had cleared up due to a reduction in boat traffic and pollution, and goats running wild in a town virtually abandoned by humans. There have been reports that babies are likely to be born healthier in cities like Beijing as air quality has improved. On the other hand, General Motors put the brakes on a car-sharing program and Starbucks will no longer fill reusable coffee mugs. It seems that no one wants to share a vehicle with strangers or handle unwashed coffee mugs during a pandemic. Well, at least temporarily. This crisis has shed light on some highly sensitive subjects and each day we're learning new things about ourselves. What important changes do we need to make? Will we think about our consumption since we now have more time at home. Have we realized what is essential? If so, this could be the opportunity of a lifetime to focus on healing not only ourselves...but the Planet too. In the meantime, stay safe! Margaret Hennessy Founder/Publisher

The Green Team: (L to R) Endre Vargha, John Karp, Jenny Malott, Cheryl Lowman, Jacki Turner, Madeline Palaszewski, Margaret Hennessy, Diane Parnell, Vera Vargha, and Monte Allen Solstice Green Directory Mission: To provide information on environmental issues and ways to address concerns of residents on the Central Coast. To help educate consumers so that they can make better choices locally by providing visibility of green and healthy products and services. To develop and provide business networking opportunities to encourage relationships that will support a more sustainable community.

Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2020

Founder/Publisher Margaret Hennessy

Marketing and Community Relations Madeline Palaszewski

Distribution

Monte Allen and Anthony Calandra

Graphic Designer John Karp

Advertising Sales Madeline Palaszewski Vera Vargha Cheryl Lowman

Editorial Content Development Gaea Powell

Tech Support Jenny Malott

Bookkeeping/Copy Editor Diane Parnell

Community Outreach Carolyn Biedinger

Reuse and Recycle Special Contributor Monte Allen

Solstice Publishing, LLC

4251 South Higuera Street, Suite 800 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (805) 473-5064 www.slosolstice.com info@slosolstice.com twitter.com/slosolstice facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory

This publication is printed on recycled paper with soy ink.

Solstice Green Directory provides an advertising service. We cannot warrant or guarantee any of the products or services advertised. All feedback is most welcome and will help us provide a better service for you. Solstice Green Directory reserves the right to accept or reject advertisers.

Contents Summer 2020

DIRECTORY 4 FEATURES Hello! How are You? 8 COVID-19 Resource Guide 10 COVID-19 Activities Guide 12 How Businesses are Responding 14 Helping Children Cope with COVID-19 16 ECHO Shelter 18 Pandemic, Pets, and Isolation 20 Yes, Eating Local Matters! 21 The "New Normal" 22 SLO County Library Goes Online! 24 Central Coast Cruisin' 26 Coping with COVID-19 28

Directory ACCESSORIES / GIFTS Apropos • (805) 784-0664 1021 Morro Street, San Luis Obispo 840 11th Street, Paso Robles Timeless fashions for ladies. Sustainable and unique brands. Jewelry and Gifts www.shopapropos.com Please see display ad on page 11

ASTROLOGY SLO Astrologers Contact at SLOAstrologers@aol.com On-going classes at the Gala Center, Palm St., SLO BUILDING MATERIALS & RESOURCES Matt Clark Tile & Stone (805) 543-7600 181 Tank Farm Rd. Ste. 140, SLO www.mattclarktile.com We carry beautiful environmentally friendly products Please see display ad on page 15

CAFÉ Sunshine Health Foods/Shine Café (805) 772-7873 Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay Please see display ad on page 17

CBD SKIN & BODY CARE Life Elements • (805) 460-4102 Natural products designed to bring incredible results to your body and skin. 8778 Plata Lane, Ste. A, Atascadero www.lifeelements.com Please see display ad on page 23

CBD OIL Life Elements • (805) 460-4102 Handcrafted CBD Topicals 8778 Plata Lane, Ste. A, Atascadero www.lifeelements.com Please see display ad on page 23

Sunshine Health Foods/Shine Café (805) 772-7873 Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay Please see display ad on page 17

CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT R. Barkley & Associates (800) 211-5677 Professional Business Services Taxes, Bookkeeping, Home Loans, Investment Planning www.rbarkley.com Please see display ad on page 27

Like Us On Facebook!

facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory

www.slosolstice.com 4

Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2020

Please see display ad on page 23

GREEN FLOORING Matt Clark Tile & Stone (805) 543-7600 181 Tank Farm Rd. Ste. 140, SLO www.mattclarktile.com We carry beautiful environmentally friendly products Please see display ad on page 15

Green Clean Machine (805) 249-3816 Eco Friendly Professional Cleaning Hazardous Chemical Evaluation Organization/Harmonization gcmwellnessadvocate@gmail.com Please see display ad on page 9

CUISINE www.CasaFestiva.com “Exploring the culture of cuisine!” Sustainability • Fun • Food & Wine Please see display ad on page 21

DENTAL Pacific Dental Excellence (805) 929-6814 Dentistry dedicated to protecting your total health. www.pacificdentalexcellence.com Please see display ad on page 19

EMOTIONAL FREEDOM TECHNIQUES Mia Simmons, Cert. 1, ADV, Level 3 (805) 528-7586 Certified, Advanced, Level 3 EFT Practitioner Meridian tapping technique www.miasimmons.com Please see display ad on page 13

@solsticegreen $109 for a 3 month Directory Listing. Call today! 805.473.5064

DIRECTORY

ORGANIC CAFE Sunshine Health Foods/Shine Café (805) 772-7873 Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay

Please see display ad on page 21

Please see display ad on page 15

www.slosolstice.com Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

Hello! how are you?

by Diane Parnell

“Reach Out and Touch Someone” ~ 1987 AT&T Commercial In this trying time of COVID-19, many of us are feeling isolated, blocked off from our friends, family, co-workers and society itself. We find ourselves turning to Zoom for business meetings and school classes, and to Skype and Google Hangout for personal connection. We Facebook and FaceTime. We send text messages with emojis expressing frustration, fear, and loneliness. But what are the people doing who don’t have computers or, if they do, don’t know how to use these platforms? What are the folks who still have landlines or don’t know how to text doing to quell their sense of isolation? I was reminded recently of that old AT&T commercial where the lonely college boy calls home and is comforted by the voices of his mother and father, his siblings and even his dog. It made

Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2020

me wonder if maybe now might be a good time to pick up the phone and call grandma, grandpa, or that elderly neighbor who lives alone. Hearing the phone ring in their home and then your voice on the line asking how they are doing might be just what they needed today. So go ahead – make the call, bring a smile to a face, warm a heart, ease some loneliness. Let them talk and find comfort in knowing that you are listening, and that you are there with them.

new findings on

Wearing a Mask According to Reuters on June 5th, the World Health Organization (WHO) updated its guidance to recommend that governments ask everyone to wear fabric face masks in public areas where there is a risk of transmission of COVID-19 to help reduce the spread of the pandemic disease. In its new guidance, prompted by evidence from studies conducted in recent weeks, the WHO stressed that face masks were one the of tools that can reduce the risk of viral transmission, but should not give a false sense of total protection. New research findings show evidence now masks worn properly can provide a barrier for potentially infectious droplets.

We can help you achieve a happy, healthy, and organized home. Home & Business Toxic Product Evaluation Removal of Toxic Chemicals in Your Home Eco Friendly Professional Cleaning Organization/Harmonization

gcmwellnessadvocate@gmail.com 9

COVID-19

Resource Guide San Luis Obispo County readySLO.org: Get the latest information related to coronavirus (COVID-19) in San Luis Obispo County slofoodbank.org: Food distribution sites and information on access to wholesome food capslo.org: Child Care Resource Connections slocountyparks.org: Latest information on parks and recreational areas slocounty.ca.gov: Locations of COVID-19 testing sites and health clinics slocoe.org: SLO County Office of Education SLO Hotline: 800-783-0607 â€“ Confidential, free mental health guidance crisis and suicide prevention phone line. standstrongnow.org: Formerly the Womenâ€™s Shelter, Stand Strong will help victims of domestic violence thecapcenter.org: The Child Abuse Prevention Center is a state, national and international training, education, research and resource center dedicated to strengthening children, families and communities.

Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2020

centralcoastseniors.org: Central Coast Commission for senior citizens is a resource for senior services. edd.ca.gov: California Unemployment Insurance Program slonoorfoundation.org: Provides free medical, dental and vision care to uninsured adults in SLO County and Northern Santa Barbara County. slolibrary.org: Updated information on availability of library services. capslo.org: CapSLO offers services for our community including homeless, senior, veteran and family services. echoshelter.org: Serving all of SLO County, ECHO is a 50 bed transitional shelter located in Atascadero. 5chc.org: Provides services for the homeless and those facing homelessness in southern SLO County. losososcares.com: Provides support for residents of Los Osos, Morro Bay and Cayucos.

Santa Barbara County countyofsb.org: Get the latest information related to coronavirus (COVID-19) in Santa Barbara County

heirloom

Tomato and Mozzarella salad

Recipe: Slice tomatoes into Â˝ inch thick slices and mozzarella (or dairy free) into thick rounds. On a large platter, alternate between slices of cheese and tomato. Season with sea salt and fresh ground pepper to taste. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Garnish with fresh chopped basil.

shopapropos.com

SAN LUIS OBISPO

1021 Morro Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 805.784.0664

PASO ROBLES

840 11th Street Paso Robles, CA 93446 805.239.8282

Uniquely feminine boho ladies boutique in the heart of downtown!

s s e l ! e n m o i h Ti s Fa Tell them you found them in Solstice! â€˘ www.slosolstice.com

COVID-19

Activities Guide SLO County Public Pools Closed: Another favorite summer pastime is a casualty of the coronavirus pandemic. County public pools are closed due to COVID-19 restrictions and the unknown timeline for when public pools may be able to operate safely across the State of California. The County of San Luis Obispo Parks & Recreation operates pools in San Miguel, Shandon, Templeton, Cayucos, and Cambria as well as at Santa Margarita Lake and Coastal Dunes RV Park. These pools normally operate between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends. Public pools are not permitted to open under the current Stage 2 guidelines. Gradual reopening is expected for pools that can limit the number of people to maintain physical distancing and safely occupy the space in and around the pool. SLO County Parks and Recreation Areas: All of the day-use parks in the county are open with restrictions including the closure of playgrounds. El Chorro Regional Park and the SLO Botanical Garden are open with modifications. Campgrounds at Lopez Lake, Santa Margarita Lake and Oceano Memorial Park are open but with restrictions. Check out slocountyparks. com for the latest information. Los Osos Skate Park is closed until further notice. Golf Courses: Public and private golf courses are open in SLO County. The Laguna Lake Golf Course is closed until further notice. 12

Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2020

Hiking Trails: Most of the hiking trails in San Luis Obispo County remain open with some modifications to routes to help hikers’ social distance. Beaches: Most of the beaches in SLO County are currently open to the public. Check sloready.org for updated information on all local beach restrictions. Libraries: San Luis Obispo County libraries remain closed. Three library branches are offering curbside pickup services. The San Luis Obispo, Atascadero, and Arroyo Grande branches of the County libraries will offer curbside pickup Tuesday through Friday from 2pm–6pm and Saturdays 10am–2pm. Online services continue as always including e-books, audiobooks, movies, zipbooks, and the online summer reading program. Zoos: Charles Paddock Zoo, Atascadero is open 7 days a week 10am–5pm. Capacity is limited to 40 people and masks are required. charlespaddockzoo.org. Santa Barbara Zoo is open. Online tickets are required. Masks are required. Check out sbzoo.org for more information. Festivals, Fairs and Concerts: The Mid-State Fair, local festivals and concerts have been cancelled or postponed during the summer in SLO County. For information on Santa Barbara County go to countyofsb.org _____________ Editor’s Note: The information presented in this guide was correct as of June 2020.

is there a

Silver Lining to COVID-19?

by Madeline Palaszewski

The coronavirus is devastating and tragic. It leaves many of us fearful and feeling out of control. But humans are resilient. It is our nature to try and find the good in bad situations. Can there be a silver lining to what we have had to do to curb the spread of the virus? It looks like there are several silver linings and the healing of our planet is at the top of the list. From the air we breathe, to the oceans and open spaces, stay at home orders have been a breath of fresh air for the planet. According to a researchers report in a May article in Nature Climate Change, daily global carbon dioxide emissions

dropped 17 per cent. Another positive aspect is families spending more time together, cooking meals at home and dining together. Many people have taken this time to learn a new skill or hobby. And neighborhoods have come together to support the frail and elderly. It is a time to reflect on what is truly important and going forward take what we’ve learned to be beneficial and apply it to our new normal.

EFT consists of fingertip tapping on meridian end-points. Research shows EFT influences positive Neuroplasticity and supports the healing of PTSD, anxiety, stress, fear, phobias and depression, Emotional Freedom Techniques and reduces cortisol levels. EFT balances Mia Simmons the activity of the parasympathetic and Cert-1, ADV, Level 3 • Certified EFT Practitioner sympathetic regions of the brain, making Practice Established 2006 • mia@miasimmons.com 805.528.7586 • www.miasimmons.com EFT a powerful healing tool. Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

how

Businesses are Responding... by Margaret De Stefano

The COVID-19 crisis has shaken all businesses, and is placing heightened importance and increased scrutiny on how companies are handling this new paradigm. They have been through a lot. The pandemic is taking its toll. Some have chosen to close their doors permanently. Something else has happened. Customers are now focusing on companiesâ€™ treatment of employees, suppliers and the communities in which they operate, naming and shaming (or praising) good and bad actors along the way. Reputation is proving to be an important driver of this focus, and business continuity, and public safety considerations are also critical. Given mounting customer and media attention, businesses are increasing their focus on social issues to demonstrate responsiveness to the top priorities of the day. We applaud them and encourage support for all our local businesses!

Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2020

message from the south county

Chamber of Commerce

by Jocelyn Brennan, President/CEO

As a regional Chamber of Commerce, we are doing all we can to support our local businesses and nonprofits in South San Luis Obispo County. We launched a new social media campaign "South County Eats and Drinks" to promote local wineries, bars, breweries, and restaurants. We created a "South County Shops" Facebook group to provide a place for local retailers to share their latest reopening updates. We are also fundraising for business recovery efforts. It has been a pleasure to serve our local businesses at this stressful time. Now, as we move into the next chapter, we are working towards recovery and getting businesses back on their feet. Our local economy will be more dependent than ever before on patrons from San Luis Obispo County, since tourism will still be limited. Please shop local. We will get through this together and be stronger than ever. Please call: (805) 489-1488 or e-mail: Jocelyn@southcountychambers.com.

Carmen Green

Broker, Lic#00981917 226 Front Street, Grover Beach, CA 93433

cgreenrealestate.com • 805.441.7370

Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

helping Children Cope with COVID-19

by Madeline Palaszewski

To say that dealing with COVID-19 and stay at home orders have been stressful for families is a huge understatement. It is particularly difficult for children to understand why they can’t go to school, play with their friends and visit with family. Teaching children positive preventive measures, talking with them about their fears, and giving them a sense of some control over their risk of infection can help reduce anxiety. The National Association of School Psychologists has compiled a list of tips to help children deal with the changes brought on by COVID-19: Be a role model. Children will react to and follow your reactions. They learn from your example. Explain social distancing. Children probably don’t fully understand why parents/guardians aren’t allowing them to be with friends. Tell your child that your family is following the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which include social distancing. Focus on the positive. Celebrate having more time to spend as a family. Make it as fun as possible. Do family projects. Organize belongings, create masterpieces. Sing, laugh, and go outside, if possible, to connect with nature and get needed exercise. Establish and maintain a daily routine. Keeping a regular schedule provides a sense of control, predictability, calm, and well-being. It also helps children and other family members respect others’ need for quiet or uninterrupted time and when they can connect with friends virtually. Monitor TV viewing and social media. Parents should monitor television, internet and social media for themselves and their children. Being there for your children is the most important tip. Talk to them and give them lots of love and affection.

Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2020

helping the

Indiginous fight COVID-19

by Diane Parnell

Paso Robles resident Martha Jimenez heard about the high infection rates of the virus among Indigenous Martha Jimenez populations and decided to take action. “When I saw a call for face masks on Facebook for the Navajo Nation in Arizona, I got busy sewing up disposable face masks.” Although not highlighted in the national news, the Navajo Nation, located in the American southwest, has been one of the hardest hit populations for the virus. Home to about 175,000 people, the Nation is experiencing an infection rate of 3.4% which is almost twice the infection rate of New York State. Lack of running water or electricity by ⅓ of the residents has contributed severely to the outbreak. Here is how you can help: Send Mask Donations via Postal Service to: Navajo Nation Donations PO Box 2010, Window Rock AZ 86515 Send Monetary Donations to: Navajo Nation Office of the Controller, PO Box 3150, Window Rock, AZ 86515 Write “COVID-19 Response Donation” in memo section of check.

Remember! Governor Newsom mandated that all Californians must wear face coverings in public or high risk settings.

Mon.-Fri. 9-6, Sat. 9-5 Sun 10-4

Fresh local produce, bulk foods, vegetarian café, natural remedies

415 Morro Bay Blvd. in Morro Bay

Kathryn A. Perry, DO Traditional Osteopathy Rational integration of conventional and alternative healthcare approaches.

777 Pismo Street, Suite B San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

816 Main Street, Suite D Cambria, CA 93428

(805) 548-8490 Traditional Osteopathic Practice

Preventative holistic healthcare taking into account the interconnectedness of mind, body and spirit.

Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

ECHO Shelter...

rising to the COVID-19 Crisis by Wendy Lewis

ECHO’s mission since 2001 is to empower people in SLO County to make positive change by providing food, shelter, and supportive services. We operate a safe and secure overnight 50-bed shelter to meet the immediate needs of families and individuals who have become homeless in SLO County. We also operate a nightly meal service in Atascadero and Paso Robles for anyone in need of a hot meal, and a shower program five times a week. ECHO has risen to the challenge of COVID-19 in many ways. Social distancing and increased sanitation procedures have been put in place throughout the shelter. Volunteer meal teams drop off “to-go” meals. Additional staff has been hired to provide an increase in services including case management and homeless outreach. ECHO's Emergency Outreach Program is delivering emergency bags and food are being delivered to unsheltered homeless individuals in North County and the North Coast. We need the communities help more then ever as homelessness is anticipated to increase by more than 50% in the next several years. Please visit echoshelter.org or call 805-462-3663 for more info.

Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2020

refreshing

Carrot Apple

smoothie!

Don't forget the 3 W's: 1. Wear a mask 2. Wash your hands 3. Watch your distance!

Recipe: Juice a pound of carrots. Combine the carrot juice to a ½ cup of unsweetened apple juice, ½ cup coconut milk, and 3 ice cubes in a blender. Add a cored and chopped apple and ½ tsp of ground cinnamon. Blend until smooth.

Smile

It’s More Than Just a Beautiful Proud to be

Mercury Free & Safe!

The Central Coast’s Best Biological Dentist!

Providing better dentistry, in a less toxic, more individualized, and environmentally friendly way.

Walk Ins and Emergencies Welcome Services We Offer: Dental Cleanings • Tooth Colored Fillings 805-929-6814 Extractions. Bridges • Crowns • Dentures 530 W. Tefft Street Root Canal Therapy and Alternatives • TMJ Splints

Nipomo, CA 93444 Ask About Our Implants, PRF, & Ozone Treatments

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Pets

pandemic, , and isolation... by Jacki Turner

Do you have a pet? If you do then you will relate to the the joy of having them in your life during this period of isolation. I have two. I love sharing my home, my life, and my "quarantine" with Charlie, a blond Yorkiepoo, and Lucky, a raven haired Papillon chihuahua mix. We provide such daily constant comfort and adoration to each other that I am afraid that after this pandemic isolation is over, I will definitely need to attend a "codependent therapy" group. But do they take dogs too? My pets keep me on my toes because, even though I have no routine or schedule...they still do!

Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2020

Charlie wakes me at 7:00am each day to go walking (my daily exercise) and right after, he needs his breakfast. They both see to it that I know when it's time for their meals, and that sort of reminds me of mine too. They seem to have their own little inner clock. According to the Centers for Disease Control website, there is a very low risk of getting infected with COVID-19 from cats or dogs. They are basically hypoallergenic! We all get so much love, attention and comfort from our pets. What more can we ask for during this period of isolation, or afterwards? Go hug a pet today (if you don't have one visit the shelter and adopt one) and your whole world will brighten. I promise!

y es,

Eating Local

matters! by Katy Budge

In case you hadn’t noticed ... “local” matters. Especially in terms of local food. Especially when a global/national/statewide pandemic disrupts food supply chains. So far, our local food systems have dealt with the shock of this crisis remarkably well. Farmers markets jumped on the physical distancing requirements immediately – and didn’t miss a beat. CSA (community supported agriculture) shares of boxed produce got snapped up -- and rightly so given the ease of delivery and assurances of minimal contact. Independent restaurants pivoted to takeaway options in remarkably creative ways.

However, none of those producers could survive without consumer support. And that’s where eating local comes in. Because our community already valued the importance of local food, we already had viable supply chains in place. Pre-COVID, the reasons for eating local largely revolved around supporting local businesses and promoting personal health. Now, we know the commitment to local resulted in something much, much more. Now, we know that SLO County has a remarkably resilient food system. So keep eating local!

One reason this area was able to do this was because we already have a significant part of our economy invested in producing food and drink. We have farmers and fishermen, ranchers and butchers, cheesemakers and bakers, not to mention breweries, wineries, and distilleries. Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

the "New Normal" by Margaret De Stefano

The coronavirus pandemic and the resulting economic recession makes this a uniquely challenging time in our countryâ€™s history. For many of us there is a new "normal' in the workplace. Here are just two examples: Working from Home: For example, environmentalists have long suggested business policies to include work from home options. This reduces commuting, which reduces the wear and tear on employees, while lowering greenhouse gas emissions. It also can increase employee productivity and reduces office energy use and waste. Companies that had work at home policies in place proved to be more resilient and had an easier time transitioning with less interruption to their business. It also helped leaders realize something important. A good employee is a good employee and

Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2020

will be productive no matter where stationed. The other type will slack off whether they are working from home or in the office. Virtual Meetings: Another example is the explosion in virtual meetings and conferences. Once the risk of spreading the virus during the pandemic became known, most businesses switched all of their meetings and conferences to virtual ones almost immediately. These two examples may at first seem only like environmental solutions, but they reduce both costs and risks to the business, as well as increase the productivity of their workforce by focusing their time on work instead of commuting and travel. Talking to each other is easier than we thought. Youâ€™ll find that there are opportunities to find common ground all around us, and during these turbulent times it's important to do just that.

why I wear a

Mask

by Margaret De Stefano

There are mixed feelings about wearing a mask. For many it seems to be a personal choice, unless required in a particular location or business. I can't speak for anyone else, but here's why I wear one in public. First, I want you to know that I know that I could be asymptomatic, and still give you the virus. No, I don’t “live in fear” of the virus; I just want to be part of the solution, not the problem. Yes, it is uncomfortable, but it doesn't always have to be about me and my comfort. Wearing a mask doesn’t define

me as weak, scared, stupid, or even controlled. It makes me considerate...of you. When I think about how I look, how darn uncomfortable it is, or what others think of me, I just imagine someone close to me, my son, husband, parent, sister or friend, choking for air on a ventilator. Most probably alone, and frightened. Without me or any other family member allowed at their bedside to comfort them. Then I ask myself: Can I "suck it up" a little for them? The answer for me is simple, loud and clear. YES. Family Membership Makes a Great Gift!

Club use included w/spa service

Relax by one of our pools

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SLO 93406

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SLO county Library goes Palaszewski Online! by Madeline The much loved summer reading program for kids through the county libraries will go online this year. Children and adults can put on their virtual reading caps with the County of SLO Public Libraries Summer Reading program. The program runs through July 31. To participate, create a Beanstack account at slolibrary.org and register anyone who wishes to participate. Participants can read whatever they fancy, then log their minutes to earn badges and prizes. The library will also host online entertainment and programs such as: Roaming Reptiles will be featuring online videos with their creature of 24

Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2020

the week, premiering every Monday morning. You can earn prize tickets on Beanstack by naming your favorite reptile. Enjoy online concerts with the Super Stolie Guacamole bilingual music and dance show. Listen for secret code words that you can enter into Beanstack for a raffle ticket. Try Pyjama Drama on Tuesdays, learn a new magic trick lesson every Wednesday with Chris Lopez, and more fun every day of the week on the libraryâ€™s YouTube channel. Other great summer reading programs on the channel include Mindfulness videos, digital photography instructions with Jamie Soja, craft videos, science videos, story times and much more!

perfect

Summer

grilled

Corn Recipe: Soak corn on the cob in a bowl of water (with husks on) for at least 15-20 minutes. Preheat the grill on medium heat. Remove corn from water. Place the soaked corn in the husk on the grill. Cook for 20 minutes, turning every 5 minutes. Use a fork to determine if the kernels are soft. Then corn is done. Remove from grill with tongs. Peel away husk and silk. Use pot holders to hold corn. Careful...it will be very hot!

 This American  Bioneers  Morning Cup

Life

 TED Radio Hour  Wait! Wait! Don’t Tell Me!  Fresh Air

90.1 SLO, Santa Maria  89.5 Santa Barbara  91.7 Paso Robles to Salinas 95.1 Lompoc  91.1 Cayucos  90.9 Santa Ynez, Avila Beach, Cambria KCBX Public Radio  4100 Vachell Lane, SLO 93401  (805) 549-8855  kcbx.org

Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

central coast

Cruisin'... by Edward Anthony photos by Ray Ambler

Lifetime Arroyo Grande resident Paul Karp has been organizing “Cruise Nights” in the quiet Five Cities during Paul Karp mandated quarantine. When asked why, the answer was simple, “I needed something to do!” Paul, owner/operator of a local plumbing company and his wife, Nicole, spent many quiet weekends at home following the pandemic lock-down. He just wanted to get out and have some fun when not working. As parents of three children, prior to the quarantine, they would go out to dinner then “cruise” Grand Avenue and Highway 1 into Pismo Beach, just to prolong their “adult time." So, Paul had an idea: reach out to some vintage truck friends to join in their typical cruise of the Five Cities main drag (Grand Ave., through the village of Arroyo Grande, to the Pacific sunset in Grover Beach). A date was chosen, resulting in great success! This proved an excellent way to promote social 26

Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2020

distancing (if you're closer than 6 feet to someone in your car, something is wrong) and help the local businesses by encouraging participants and spectators to order take-out while enjoying the evening. Since then, Paul has evolved the cruise to incorporate 100+ vintage/ custom cars and trucks, and taken to social media, spreading the word of Central Coast Cruise Nights becoming a weekly event. It has drawn attention to local restaurants, promoted community togetherness, and gained the support of local law enforcement. The weekly success has sparked interest all over the Central Coast, resulting in various towns holding their own local cruise nights. Finally, there's something to talk about and actually do! To Participate: meet at Figueroa Mountain Brewing, Arroyo Grande from 6–8pm every Saturday evening. To Spectate: grab some take-out from great restaurants along Grand Ave. and a couple chairs or just park along the route, and enjoy the custom and classic cars and trucks! facebook.com/groups/684898615627879

foods to

Boost the

Immune System... by Madeline Palaszewski

As we all try to stay healthy while dealing with the coronavirus pandemic, boosting our immune system is a key component. Good nutrition is one of the main building blocks to strengthening immune systems. Nature has provided us with a bounty of immune-boosting foods, mostly in the plant family. Some are well-known herbs such as Echinacea and elderberry and all are readily available. The heavy hitters are onions, garlic, ginger, green tea, mushrooms, citrus, berries, apples, dark leafy greens (especially kale), red bell peppers, and small amounts of a variety of raw nuts and seeds every day. But the list is long. It is best to buy foods locally and in season, to ensure you get the most immuneboosting nutrients for your dollar. And the fresher the better…our local Farmers’ Markets are overflowing with immune boosting fruits and vegetables. Just be sure to stay safe by social distancing and wearing a mask whenever possible.

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Bring More Green into Your Life Ph: 800.211.5677 / 805.929.0070 eM: rbarkley@rbarkley.com www.rbarkley.com P.O. Box 1590, Nipomo, CA 93444-1590

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coping with “COVID-19 has been difficult because I was unable to work and unable to go to stores comfortably. And I'll be honest, I hate wearing my mask, but I understand the importance of it, especially here at work where I'm dealing with patients all day. But on the bright side it’s been nice to spend time with family and be home.” Nayeli Alvarez Nipomo

“I think we're discovering that relationships rather than possessions add meaning to life. A simple glass of wine with friends can be as enjoyable as the same wine in France, and the fresh produce dropped off by neighbors can taste as good as what we're served at a fine restaurant. Simple is good. The long term benefits of this might be that we focus on the value of simplicity and relationships more than we did pre-COVID.” Bill Kimball Atascadero

“This experience has made me realize how much I have taken my freedom for granted (i.e., being able to choose on a daily basis what I was going to do and where I was going to go). My family ties are quite strong and yet I was surprised at how much more important it was to try to help protect and keep safe family members who were at greater risk of this virus. Freedom and Family – Treasure them!” Linda Buss Paso Robles

Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2020

COVID-19 “My father passed away in November. Before COVID-19 hit, I was spending as much time with my mom as I could so we could heal together. Now it’s tough to balance seeing her and worrying that I might have it and infect her. I wish people would wear their masks and understand that it’s not about them – it’s about protecting others.” Mary Meinert-Dorazio Oceano

“I’ve seen a lot of positives come out of this crisis, like people showing compassion and helping one another. I think it has been a good reminder that people really do care about each other. I think the environmental effects we saw early on made us realize that we really could turn things around for our planet as well.” Carmen Trotter San Luis Obispo

“I am disheartened that this deadly virus has created yet another divide in the people of our nation. Any other time that we have been threatened or attacked, (i.e., 9/11) we have stood together as a united front against the danger. Please people - practice social distancing to keep us all safer, and wear your darn mask!” Diane Parnell San Luis Obispo

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coping with “If anything, this time has reminded me of the power of community. I am humbled and in awe of the unwavering support from our students. While the doors had to close, the studio's community has remained intact and stronger than ever. Our classes have all been shifted to online, which became a beautiful 'meeting' space for everyone to stay connected and continue practicing yoga together.” Kelly Metcalf San Luis Obispo

“Closing my offices and staying home was an interesting experience for me. I enjoyed having the freedom to take care of myself and my household, exercise outside daily. The community was visible, families together hiking, people walking and giving a smile as we passed by. Slowing down has been a gift to truly appreciate my life. Human connection is essential and this COVID-19 experience has shown us this fact!” JennyDull-Frost Atascadero

“Staying home during this pandemic has been hard. I’m very lonely.” (starts to cry) “It makes you realize how much you appreciate having people in your life. I've been really bored at home, so my daughter brought me a jigsaw puzzle to keep me busy. I'm lucky to have two great kids to take care of me.” Rose Meinert Grover Beach

Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2020

COVID-19

“I miss spending time with friends at school and I miss hugging people. I didn’t get to have a softball season because of the virus. That made me sad that I didn’t get to see teammates. I did like being able to stay in my pj’s while I did school work from home. I do like getting to video chat with friends and family on Facebook Messenger.” Sydney Cuaresma Age 8

“It takes a conscious effort to try to turn any of the struggles of this time into positives. But I have found when we make that a priority, we can find the happiness of this time together, without distraction of the “next thing” on our calendar. That will be my focus when remembering this unprecedented period of time – what was accomplished rather than what was taken away.”

“Home is so special – we have to be home because of the coronavirus – I like it but it’s boring sometimes. What I do is exercises, get a lot of rest, and keep my body moving. I do love how my mom tickles me more. I want to bring everyone flowers and I can’t wait to play on the playground at the park.” AddiJo Cuaresma Age 4

Mandy Cuaresma Nipomo

Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

Solstice Green Directory - Summer 2020

Feeding the community by Diane Parnell

“With soaring unemployment, furloughs, The SLO Food Bank message to the and economic stagnation, our mission has community is as simple as it is genuine: never been more vital,” says Luise Gleason, 1) If you need help, we are here for you. Marketing & Communications Coordinator for Visit us at: slofoodbank.org. 2) If you are the SLO Food Bank. “We were once helping challenged but keeping your head above about 3,000 SLO County water, we are rooting for your households per month; Since COVID-19, the success and are ready to help we are now over 9,200 need for support should you need us. households!” Gleason 3) If you are in a position to from the SLO Food help others – at whatever credits the overwhelming Bank has tripled! level is feasible – donate to support of the community for the Food Bank’s ability your SLO Food Bank. 4) If to meet this unprecedented challenge. She is you are interested in starting a movement to optimistic, yet offers an honest assessment assist the SLO Food Bank, we can help set up of future needs. “Funding is our most an online fundraising campaign to help crowd critical need right now, as we prepare for source compassionate collaboration! a second wave of hunger once pandemic Please consider helping the SLO Food Bank unemployment benefits end. Food purchases in their efforts to put food on the plates of our are our main cost, as we have maximized free hungry friends and neighbors in need. Visit: resources and are having to purchase the slofoodbank.org to donate now! additional food needed.”

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