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DECEMBER 2023 • MORROBAYLIFENEWS.COM

S e r v i n g t h e C o m m u n i t i e s o f M o r r o B ay a n d C ay u c o s

Happy Holidays INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

SAVORY WINTER

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s we approach the season of Winter Solstice, we are reminded of the profound wisdom contained within the Native American Solstice Blessing: “May you find peace in the promise of the solstice night, that each day forward is blessed with more light. That the cycle of nature, unbroken, and true, brings faith to your soul and well-being to you. Rejoice in the darkness, in the silence, find rest, and may the days that follow be abundantly blessed.” In the midst of the bustling holiday festivities that surround us, it is all too easy to overlook the ancient and sacred traditions of the Winter Solstice. Yet, this celestial event holds a significance that transcends the modern customs of gift-giving and merry-making. It marks the shortest day and the longest night of the year, symbolizing the birth of the new solar year, known as Yuletide. Here on the Central Coast, where our winters are mild and inviting, we are blessed with the opportunity to embrace the season’s spirit in the open air. Whether you find solace in a leisurely stroll along the coast, savor the delights of local dining, or partake in all the festivities, this is a time to connect with the natural world around us. All of us here, we hold a deep appreciation for the traditions and rituals associated with each season. My husband’s Swedish heritage has instilled in us a love for the customs that accompany the winter season, and the Winter Solstice holds a special place in our hearts. It is a time when cultures worldwide come together to celebrate with fire and light on the darkest day of the year. Throughout history, many cultures have observed the Winter Solstice in various ways, leaving their mark on the modern holidays we cherish today. From the decorating of evergreen trees to the exchange of heartfelt gifts, these age-old traditions continue to shape our holiday celebrations.

morro bay life is published monthly. all rights reserved, material may not be reprinted without written consent from the publisher. morro bay life made every effort to maintain the accuracy of information presented in this publication, but assumes no responsibility for errors, changes or omissions. morro bay life is a publication of 13 stars media.

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As Winter Solstice approaches on Thursday, December 21, we invite you to embrace the magic of this season. Let us remember that beyond the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, this month holds a wealth of significance. It is a time to spread love and warmth, to connect with family and friends, and to extend acts of kindness to those around us.

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congratulations Putting a Spotlight on Businesses The Morro Bay Chamber of Commerce is putting a spotlight on local businesses! Spotlight Businesses are nominated and selected by fellow business owners in Morro Bay as a standout business with exceptional ownership.

If you know of a business or non-profit that deserves a spotlight, please send your nomination to our Ambassador’s Committee for review by emailing Lynsey Hansen at lynsey@morrochamber.org.

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FISHING

Fishermen to form local advocacy chapter The movement’s start They succeeded in getting the deadline group got to the convention center early and Nationwide nonprofit The organization began in Houston on the pushed back to 2035 from the 2030 deadline plastered every manufacturer’s booth with its literature, which got them in the door. fishing rights organization Texas Gulf Coast in 1977 and started the Cali- the CARB originally adopted. fornia State Chapter in 2015. Now there are He said the CARB rule “Was bad news “We were promised a seat at the table,” in town to get the local chapters in Los Angeles, Orange County, San for all of us” and called it “a big win for us.” Arechaederra said. “And they never called Inland Empire, Kern County, Santa He spoke a lot about all the lobbying efforts us. We forced our way into the conversation.” anglers together and speak Diego, Barbara, and the Channel Islands (covering the organization has taken up and the effec“’Fishermen are not the enemy,’” he added, tiveness of their united stances. Oxnard, Ventura and Santa Barbara). “we got them to say that.” with one voice The requirements from the national orgaAll told, CCA has some 140,000 members Now, the issues are more grandiose and just

nization aren’t a lot. “Each chapter is run by an all-volunteer board of directors,” the CCA website said. “They are required to hold at least one fundorro Bay and the waters off the raiser per year to remain an active chapter. Central Coast have gotten a lot CCA CAL has over 1,600 active members of attention lately as the state of in California.” California and the federal government look to switch to new sustainable carbon-free energy Main foci sources for the electrical grid in their efforts to Arechaederra said their three main foci are fight climate change. advocacy, habitat and hatchery. Indeed, seemingly everyone from the White As an example of their efforts, he said they House and federal agencies, to the state, were able to get started a halibut hatchery county and local level agencies, has a “stake” program and have released over 2,300 juvein proposed offshore floating wind farms, and nile halibut into Mission Bay. This had never battery storage facilities here. successfully been done before. Added to this push to save the planet, is a “We represent your right to fish here, on the push for a National Marine Sanctuary (the recreational side,” Arechaederra said. They have been successful in getting artiChumash Heritage NMS) that would stretch from Montaña de Oro to Goleta, plus the state’s ficial reef programs started in other coastal previously instituted marine protected areas states, but not California, which he explained (here it’s offshore from the harbor entrance shut down an artificial reef program it had south), and the government’s bureaucratic and tried to get started. regulatory protections for the local waters run In the Gulf of Mexico, they are working deep and now seemingly everyone wants in on on sinking oil derricks for artificial reefs. the action. They’d do it here, too, but the environmental But among the biggest stakeholders are fish- laws are too onerous. “It takes a long time,” ermen (and women), the people who actually Arechaederra said, “and a heck of a lot of make their living on or recreate on the water, effort.” and their concerns are often washed over like In Southern California, they ’ve been a sand dollar in the surf. running a sea bass hatchery and have released thousands of the ocean stripers into the Pacific. Advocacy comes to town They’ve also been fighting to save the live Now, a nationwide nonprofit fishing advocacy bait fishery. organization has come to town to try and get “We have to continue to fight for continthe local anglers to band together and speak ued use of live bait every year,” he said of the with one voice in the hope that all that’s coming doesn’t prevent them from going fishing. anchovies and sardines caught by commercial Representatives from the Coastal Conser- boats and used by many anglers. vation Association (CCA) of California (see They’ve also lobbied for less obvious things joincca.org) came to Morro Bay on Nov. 13 to like a 12-month fishing license that they meet with folks interested in forming a Morro finally got approved on their 10th try. Bay Chapter of CCA to join the other eight “That was a great victory,” Arechaederra said. chapters in California. Morro Bay would be the farthest north on the coast that the group A barb to CARB has organized. The CCA went to bat for commercial sport CCA Assistant Director Chris Arechaederra landings when the California Air Resources led the Morro Bay meeting, which was held at Board enacted sweeping new rules for diesel Shoreline Calvary Chapel and attended by over boats’ emissions that would have meant every 50 local fisher folks. commercial sport fishing boat would have to He said Morro Bay was “one of the last areas be replaced or re-powered with new-fangled on the Central Coast where CCA doesn’t have diesel engines that Arechaederra said “don’t a chapter.” exist right now.”

By NEIL FARRELL for Morro Bay Life

as threatening to fishers — the offshore float- nationwide and chapters in 19 states. ing wind farms and the marine sanctuary. “We are far better off working together than “ We could sit here for three weeks,” separately,” Arechaederra said. Arechaederra said, “and only start to address these issues.” A leery crowd During the Nov. 13 meeting with the state CCA reps, some members of the audience Birth of an advocacy group But the first step in all this was to get orga- were somewhat leery about a CCA Morro nized in Morro Bay and that meant picking Bay, worried that their fundraising efforts officers for a new chapter, which the attend- would just see the money disappear into the ees did by shouted nominations and a show organization. of hands in true democratic fashion. Arechaederra said the local chapters are also Led by Melissa Tardif (of the Black Pearl expected to “pound the pavement” to sign up Sport Fishing), the audience members nomi- more members. nated Gambit Ruiloba, who works at Virg’s “We don’t want to deal with all the advocacy Landing, to be president, and she accepted. stuff,” he said. “We just want to fish.” Tardif was nominated and approved to be vice After the meeting, Ruiloba told Morro Bay president; Jack Galardi was named treasurer; Life that while she’s been in the fishing busiand Hollywood Dominguez became secretary. ness for a long time, she’s always avoided the And just like that, an advocacy group was politics of the industry. But with all the things conceived with motivated volunteers, and as coming down today — the sanctuary, offshore these energy and advanced protection matters wind farms, and further regulations — she felt move forward, local fishermen will be able to it was time to take a stand and defend the way speak with a strong, unified voice. of life that fisher folks enjoy. The key, she said, was to get the entire community involved. Commitment of time Some attendees wondered about how much Benefits, goals time they’d have to dedicate to the cause. Among the benefits of the CCA are a newsArechaederra said the chapters normally letter, fishing podcasts, and a social media meet once a month, and new board members presence — on Facebook and Instagram. are picked every year, though someone could The goal in California, Arechaederra said, is serve more than one term in any of the lead- to work their way up the coast and eventually ership positions — president, vice-president, have 30-40 California chapters. treasurer and secretary. All funds raised are One commercial fisherman took offense to sent to the state chapter and none of the local a comment made by Arechaederra concerning chapters even have a bank account. Dues are “destructive” commercial fishing gear. $40 a year and that money goes to the national He explained that they mean drifting gill organization. nets, which are notorious for their potential bi-catch of protected species like sea turtles. They fought against gill netting in the Gulf Lots of issues As to the sanctuary, Arechaederra said, “I of Mexico, he explained. “Ultimately we want know it grinds a lot of gears here.” everyone to fish clean.” The fisherman said they’ve been regulated He noted that the proposed management plans for sanctuaries say nothing about regu- out of existence, and noted that draggers have lating fishing, which is normally handled by been completely chased out of the area (due the National Marine Fisheries Service and, to the catch shares program) in just a few even more so, the Pacific Fisheries Manage- short years and dover sole landings, once the ment Council, the regulatory board that sets backbone of the local deep water drag indusfishing limits and regulations on the U.S. West try, have dropped to zero. Coast. However, the CCA members have been Another person asked where they focus told before that sanctuaries don’t regulate their advocacy? Arechaederra said “Very fishing. A change in strategy was in order. simple — saltwater. Our advocacy is about So at a big boat show in San Diego, the saltwater fishing.”

HARBOR

Recess for Sea Lions Friends of the Harbor Department — use boats and shore-side docks to haul out and rest. pays to rebuild ‘Sea Lion Dock’ That ‘Sea Lion Dock’ is now a nature-based

Story and photos By NEIL FARRELL

t’s a snapshot of the battle waged every day between the marine mammals and people, and which at times seems like the sea lions are winning. The sea lions took over a floating side-tie dock out in the harbor about 20 years ago. It’s the dock the Harbor Department used to rent to transiting vessels for a temporary tie-up. The department fought a valiant battle but eventually gave in to the invasion. And when those floats started falling apart, the Friends of the Harbor Department paid to rebuild them for the animals, in part to try and keep them from doing what these fellows have done

tourist attraction, so too the many sea otters hanging around at the South T-pier. But while they add considerably to the harbor’s charm and importance as a wildlife area, sea lions can be destructive and very messy when they take over boats and docks. And never forget that these are powerful, wild animals who won’t hesitate to attack anyone that gets too close. Also, harming or even harassing them is a federal crime. Certain deterrence methods are specifically allowed under the Marine Mammal Protection Act to chase them away, including electrified wires strung along the docks and pepper spray. Oh, and if anyone is looking for a nice boat to purchase, the Recess is apparently “For Sale.”

Sea lions jockey for position on the swim step of the motor vessel Recess, which is tied up at Morro Bay Landing in Morro Bay Harbor during the recent Halloween Witch’s Paddle.

Morro Bay Life • DECEMBER 2023 • 5

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CITY

City recycles recycling project Morro Bay City Council voted unanimously to continue with its water reclamation system By NEIL FARRELL for Morro Bay Life

he Morro Bay City Council voted unanimously to continue with its water reclamation system, awarding extensions of contracts and setting the path forward to sustainable water supply. At a joint meeting with the Public Works Advisory Board on Nov. 14, the staff had asked for direction on how to move forward with the ultimate recycling goals of the $175 million Water Reclamation Facility (WRF) Project that is nearly completed after over two years of construction. The WRF involved building a new advanced treatment plant that would triple treat wastewater conveyed to a new plant above South Bay Boulevard, then put the wastewater through a reverse osmosis plant before piping it back into town and injecting it into the Morro Creek groundwater basin. From there, it could be extracted and added to the town’s water supply making the supply more drought resilient. Recycling phase now This recycling portion of the WRF has always been considered separate from the main goals — to move the new treatment plant away from coastal hazards and increase treatment of the sewage before being discharged. Recycling the water became attractive during drought conditions when State Water Project deliveries dropped, and in seeking low-interest funding from the state and federal governments, which reward recycling water schemes. And now that the city has tapped those funding sources, it has to follow through with recycling. A report to the City Council said, “The City is in the process of implementing a Recycled Water Program that will include injection of advanced purified recycled water into the Morro Basin to enhance recharge, prevent seawater intrusion and improve groundwater quality. The recycled water will then be pumped from the City’s existing extraction wells after complying with Indirect Potable Reuse (IPR) Groundwater Replenishment Reuse Project (GRRP) requirements to improve the reliability and resiliency of the City’s water supply portfolio.” In plain speak, the city plans to inject the recycled water into the ground at a well site on the power plant property adjacent to Morro Creek. That water is intended to block seawater intrusion that could be caused by the city pumping a series of wells at the edge of Lila Keiser Park (beyond the right field fence of the east softball field). The city pumps those Morro Creek wells whenever State Water deliveries are interrupt-

ed for maintenance or cut back for drought. Recycling a selling point The city sold the WRF to ratepayers claiming that it could recycle some 800 acrefeet a year. The latest information from the city’s consultants reinforces that number. “Utilizing eight injection wells,” the report said, “the IPR Program could be capable of injecting 887 acre feet per year (AFY ) of advanced purified recycled water into the Morro Basin. Injection of 887 AFY would provide the City with the ability to extract up to a total of 1,000 AFY of groundwater from the Morro Basin without inducing seawater intrusion or violating other constraints established for the modeling scenarios.” At 1,000 AFY, that would be a considerable amount more than the city normally takes out of that basin. According to the city’s 2021 Annual Water Quality Report, “During 2021, State Water provided 96 percent of the City’s drinking water and the [Morro] wells provided the remaining 4 percent, with all of this well water being treated by the Brackish Water Reverse Osmosis plant” (formerly the city’s desalination plant). The Morro basin well water has high nitrate levels and must be run through the RO plant before being piped across town and blended at the Kings Street tank farm. That well water is also disinfected to drinking water standards. One well dug The City has already had one injection well drilled and now will drill two more — a second one at the power plant site and the other on the Embarcadero by the Morro Dunes RV Park on the north side of Morro Creek. The plan now is also to use the recycled water on the fields at Lila Keiser Park and Morro Bay High School, building a “purple pipe” system to deliver that recycled water. “The results of the Water Supply Evaluation Scenarios indicate that implementation of an initial phase of the Recycled Water Program [i.e., 3 IPR injection wells and NPR recycled water landscape irrigation] would be sufficient to meet the city’s near-term water supply reliability needs.” Project phased in The recycled water portion of the WRF is now being phased in, with Phase 1 to include:

• “Drill two additional injection wells for a total of three injection wells [one injection well has already been drilled]; • Equip the three injection wells to allow for IPR recycled water injection, back flushing, and other IPR

Program operations; • Construct/extend recycled water pipelines to deliver recycled water to the injection wells and for NPR recycled water landscape irrigation use at Lila Kaiser Park and Morro Bay High School to offset demand for potable water [Evaluate opportunities to utilize existing, abandoned pipelines i.e., Seawater Desal Feedline] to limit program costs and reduce construction and environmental impacts; • Incorporate water system operational strategies [e.g., blending Morro Basin groundwater with SWP water to avoid the need to utilize the Brackish Water Reverse Osmosis treatment system] to reduce production costs for the City’s water system.” Plan for future The city is also being asked by state agencies like the Coastal Commission to craft its coastal development permit application according to the town’s ultimate build-out population (and in turn future water needs) when designing the recycling system, as the Coastal Commission will have the ultimate authority over the city’s project. The project has a lot of work to accomplish and the next steps, according to the report, are: • “Prepare an updated Recycled Water Management Plan that includes description of the initial and future phases of the Recycled Water Program and submit to Coastal Commission Staff for approval consideration. • Complete biological and a rc h e o l o g i c a l s u r ve y s for the Recycled Water Program construction area and prepare required reports and/or consultations with the Resource Agencies (e.g., United States Fish & Wildlife, State Historical Preservation Society, etc.). • Complete Preliminar y Design for the full build-out Recycled Water Program, as outlined in the Basis of Design Report, to enable the City to obtain the necessary environmental and permitting approvals for implementation of the Recycled Water Program. • Develop an implementation plan with criteria for when to implement future phases of the Recycled Water Program. • Procure a hydrogeologic consultant to complete the design and a drilling contractor to construct the two additional injection wells. • Procure an engineering consultant to complete preliminary and final design of the recycled water pipelines, injection well equipping and NPR recycled water connections.

• Prepare WRF CDP Special Condition 1, 2, & 13 Reports for the Recycled Water Facilities construction and submit to Coastal Commission Staff for approval consideration. • Prepare and submit the Title 22 Engineering Report for the Recycled Water Program to the Division of Drinking Water for approval consideration. • Prepare and submit the Report of Waste Discharge (RWOD) application for the Groundwater Replenishment Reuse Project (GRRP) to the Regional Water Quality Control Board and obtain a Waste Discharge Requirements (WDR) permit for the Recycled Water Program. • Procure a contractor to construct the recycled water pipelines, injection well equipping and NPR recycled water connections.” Staff needs help With that much of a workload — not to mention all the other things the city staff is working on — they needed help, and the council voted to give it to them. The consultant for biological resources, KMA, got a $38,700 extension to conduct biological surveys along the pipeline routes needed for the purple pipe system (part of which is slated to run through the power plant property). “These surveys are critical for identifying injection well locations and pipeline alignments that do not have significant impacts on biological resources and that can be permitted and constructed within the WRF Program funding/financing agreement deadlines,” reads the report. The additional work will require trenching and grading, which means additional archaeological study and monitoring. City consultant Far Western’s contract was increased $184,500. The project needs more environmental study and permitting work and the city’s consultant, Rincon, had its contract amended for the first time by $186,900. Rincon did the initial environmental impact report for the

WRF back in 2018, but that exhaustive report didn’t have anything about the recycling part, as it had yet to be fully flushed out. The hydrogeological consultant, GSI Water Solutions, had its contract amended for the third time, an additional $230,900. GSI’s part in all this could be tricky, as the new duties include injection testing of the well that’s already been drilled to ensure the injected water stays in the ground long enough to satisfy drinking water standards, and to deal with potential issues arising from the Regional Water Quality Control Board’s review of the project. That’s the agency that in 2003 started this whole sewer ball rolling when it wrote a letter to the city asking that the old sewer treatment plant on Atascadero Road be upgraded to full secondary treatment before discharge into the ocean. The water board sought to eliminate a special permit, 301(h) waiver, under the Clean Water Act, one of only three in existence at the time in California. The city will go out for bids to find an engineering company to handle the design of the wells and piping system. Clock is ticking The city is coming close to hitting a wall of deadlines imposed on the project by the funding agencies, who lent the city tens of millions of dollars at extremely low interest rates with certain performance conditions written in. “In multiple recent meetings between City Staff and the Recycled Water Program team,” the city report said, “the WRF Program Funding/Financing agency representatives have indicated that the current timelines associated with each of the funding programs are firm and that the funding agencies are anxious to have the City complete the scope of work included in the funding/financing agreements [i.e., Water Resources Center, Conveyance, Indirect Potable Reuse recycled water in the Morro Basin, Wastewater Treatment Plant De-

commissioning]. “Additionally, the funding/financing agencies have indicated that the WRF Program was selected for funding through competitive processes based on the merits of the proposed project and that significant changes to the project could jeopardize the WRF Program’s funding eligibility.” With a $69 million loan the city got from the EPA’s WIFIA Program, it has to have two injection wells and the deadline is Jan. 1, 2025. However, the staff report said they’ve spoken with EPA and the deadline can be extended “if making significant progress.” The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB), which loaned the city over $100 million, had an Aug. 31, 2023 deadline for the city to be recycling “412.5 AFY of recycled water use in near term” a deadline that has already lapsed. The report said they are having it amended to a Sept. 30, 2026, deadline. The city plan is to be able to recycle 825 AFY at build-out. A U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, grant program under Title XVI (the WaterSMART Program) is still being hashed out so the city doesn’t yet know what recycling conditions that program might have but they have a tentative deadline of Sept. 30, 2025. A Department of Water Resources so-called “Integrated Regional Water Management Grant Program” or IRWM, calls for two injection wells and has a Sept. 30, 2026, deadline. Time has flown by But while those dates might seem far off, the city’s project is a good example of how time flies, considering it was 2003 when the RWQCB first wrote to the city. The Coastal Commission rejected the city and Cayucos Sanitary District’s first project in early 2013, and the WRF Project rose (without Cayucos’ participation) from those ashes. So while it’s taken 10 years to get the WRF Project to this point, it’s been 20 years since the whole affair began.

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6 • DECEMBER 2023 • Morro Bay Life

Making Communities Better Through Print™

EDUCATION

The December dilemma, religion, and our schools By JAMES BRESCIA, ED.D. for Morro Bay Life

illions of families from diverse religious backgrounds entrust their children’s education to our nation’s public schools. Employees need to be fully informed about the Constitutional and educational principles for understanding the role of religion in public education. According to religious scholars, the phrase “separation of church and state” was initially coined by Baptists striving for religious toleration in Virginia, whose official state religion was then Anglican (Episcopalian). Baptists thought government limitations against religion were illegitimate. James Madison and Thomas Jefferson reportedly championed their cause. During the American holiday season, tax-pay-

er-funded schools often face the “December Dilemma.” Confusion occurs during the holidays because the issue of religious expression in public schools becomes more visible in some situations. Questions about using religious icons, sacred music, and specific decorations in the classroom place the matter of “separation of church and state” before students, parents, faculty, staff, administration, and community members. The preamble of the Act Establishing Religious Freedom in Virginia (1786) affirms that “the Author of our Religion gave us our ‘free will.’” Moreover, He “chose not to propagate it by coercions.” This legislation did not diminish religious influence on government because it also provided stiff penalties for conducting business on the Sabbath. Legal experts and scholars contend that the Constitution does not inhibit public

displays of faith. At the Constitution’s ratification, the early Republic even welcomed public worship. Church services were held in the U.S. Capitol and Treasury buildings every Sunday. Many federal buildings contain imagery that remains unmistakably biblical. So, where does this leave our government-funded public schools? Academics and lawyers advise that when public schools hold celebrations, they should try to accommodate diverse faiths during the holiday season. Students cannot be forced to participate in any event that offends their religious beliefs. Legal experts recommend accommodations, including different customs, various songs, and varied traditional foods at parties or other in-school events. However, assemblies dominated by religious activity may raise Constitutional concerns. Three major principles form the United States Supreme Court’s

consensus on teaching about religion in public schools: 1) The Court has indicated that studying religion in public schools is Constitutional. 2) Including the study of religion is vital for student education about history and cultures. 3) Religions must be taught objectively and neutrally. The Court has determined that schools may celebrate the holidays and create displays as long as they do within “the context of the Christmas Season,” and the religious component of their display does not dominate the secular status in our society. Lynch v. Donnelly, 465.U.S. 668, 679, and 691 (1984). Under this ruling, a Christmas tree would be appropriate, while a cross or a nativity scene would not. Crosses and nativity scenes are religious symbols that have not gained the same secular status in our society as a Christmas tree. Religious icons present a constitutional dilemma

when visible in public displays. Even the most experienced school officials struggle with balancing the legal conditions, past practices, and community expectations. The government should tr y to acknowledge the appropriate recognition of religion in American society and avoid encouraging particular religious beliefs. The framers held that church and state are distinct in that the federal government should not elevate one denomination over others. Nor can the government or the citizenry usurp divine authority by joining politics with the church. Faith should remain a personal matter, not a civil contract tainted by politics. Our founders wrote about the importance of religion and how freedom of religion is vital. It is an honor to serve as your county superintendent of schools.

NONPROFIT

34th annual Christmas Bicycle Giveaway By IAN PARKINSON San Luis Obispo County Sheriff

t’s December. You know, as the song says, it’s the most wonderful time of the year. And that’s certainly the way we feel around here at the Sheriff ’s Office. A time of giving and receiving. A time to reflect on what matters most. A time to remember those who may need a little help this time of year. This is what motivates us every year as we continue the tradition of our annual Christmas Bicycle Giveaway. It’s hard to believe but this is our 34th year of giving away bicycles and helmets to kids in need in San Luis Obispo County. Ever since I became sheriff, I have been honored to be a part of this program which does so much good for so many children. It started as a simple idea. To have inmates give back to their community by refurbishing bicycles which could then be given to kids who otherwise wouldn’t get a bicycle at Christmastime. And every year the program has expanded. Last year alone, we gave away more than 300 bicycles to kids. For us, this season starts long before December. Every year starting in the summer, we put out the word to the community to donate any bicycles they may have to the bike program. These can be new bicycles, old bicycles that are not being used anymore, or ones that just need a little TLC. But I’ll be honest with you, this program has become so popular, we have people donating bicycles to us year-round. The bikes can be dropped off at any of our patrol stations in Templeton, Los Osos, Oceano, or at the Honor Farm off Highway 1 near Cuesta College. Once at the Honor Farm, the inmates immediately begin refurbishing the bikes to like-new condition. The program instills in the inmates a positive work ethic, self-respect, and a sense of worth to the

On Dec. 12, the SLO County Sheriff’s Office will be handing out bicycles at the Sheriff’s Honor Farm. Photo provided by the SLO County Sheriff’s Office

community. For the past few years, we’ve had members of Bike SLO County which donates many hours to help inmates refurbish the bicycles. We receive applications for the bicycles throughout the year for children who are in

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need of a bicycle. As you might expect, that need increases during the holiday season. We couldn’t continue this program without the help of our friends in the community. As I’ve mentioned, Bike SLO County lends us invaluable expertise and time to help put the bikes back in good working order.

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805-225-5105

ESTATE PLANNING for Asset Protection & Family Protection

Additionally, we would like to thank the organization Rita’s Rainbows for donating money to buy bicycle helmets. Also, a big shout out to The SLO Bike Club, the Sandlot Group of San Luis Obispo, San Luis Garbage and the SLO County Health Agency. And one more thank you to the Sheriff ’s Advisory Foundation, which donates time, money, and support to the cause. This year we will be handing out bicycles on Dec. 12 at the Sheriff ’s Honor Farm. I, for one, can’t wait to see the children’s eyes light up and smiles spread across their faces when they’re getting a bicycle. It’s the best feeling. I want to leave you with that joyous feeling as I wrap up another year of informing you about all the many happenings at the Sheriff ’s Office. And with that, let me just add as a personal note, from everyone here at the Sheriff ’s Office, may your holidays be safe and filled with peace, health, and much happiness.

Morro Bay Life • DECEMBER 2023 • 7

morrobaylifenews.com

Savory Winter Bread Pudding By BEEWENCH FARM

his is the time of year I really love to make anything I can cook in the oven to warm up the house and make it smell amazing. Our favorite winter meals are cozy soups, slow cooked meals, roasts, and of course cookies for friends and Santa. If you are at a market, don’t forget to pick up some carrots for the reindeer! We also eat a lot of citrus this time of year as the oranges come into the markets and give us that extra vitamin C boost. There are also plenty of delicious baked goods at the markets too! My husband, DJ, loves the toffee pie from A-Town Humble Pies, so I’m sure that will be at a holiday meal or two. If you are looking for more in season produce here is what to look for: Beets Mushrooms Fruits: Arugula Grapefruit Bok Choy Oranges Cabbage Pomegranates Chard Leeks Lettuce Vegetables: Peas Kale Spinach Sweet Potato This is a vegetarian recipe that is great to share if you aren’t sure of dietary preferences

of guests. I personally added in some of our • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper ground pork that I browned and seasoned a little before cooking anything else and used Instructions the grease from the pork to cook the leeks Spray a 9”x13” (22cm x 33cm) baking dish in. Bacon would also be delicious in this, and with pan spray. Set aside. you cannot go wrong getting some from our local markets or butchers. Prepare the Filling To blanch the kale, fill a medium sized Savory Winter Bread saucepot 1/2 way with water and put it on to Pudding boil. Set up an ice bath. Place the kale in the Ingredients boiling water and press down to submerge. • 2 tablespoons olive oil Set the timer for 1 minute. Remove the kale • 8 cups kale destemmed and rough chopped and plunge it into the ice bath to cool. Strain into bite size-pieces (about two bunches) and press out excess water, as much as possi• 2 1/2 cups leeks split, cleaned, sliced thin ble. Place in large mixing bowl. into 1/2 moons (about 1 large leek) Add 1 Tbs oil to a sauté pan, heat until • 12 ounces oyster mushrooms shimmering. Add the leeks plus 1/4 tsp salt • 6 cups sourdough bread cut into bite-sized and cook on medium-low for about ten minutes, stirring occasionally until soft. cubes (about 1/2 a loaf ) • 2 1/4 cups gruyere or white cheddar grated Some browning is good. Place the cooked (check out the Vreamery for non-dairy leeks in mixing bowl with the kale. options) Clean and thinly slice the mushrooms. • 1 cup parmesan grated Add 1 Tbs oil to the same sauté pan, heat • 2 tablespoons chives thinly sliced until shimmering. Add the mushrooms and • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme chopped cook on medium-low for about 5 minutes, • 6 large eggs stirring only a few times. We want to sear • 2 cups whole milk (sub with coconut, those mushrooms. Add the mushrooms almond, or cashew milk if dairy free) to the mixing bowl. Reserve 1 C of bread • 1 1/2 tablespoons Dijon mustard cubes, and a few handfuls of cheese and • 1 teaspoon sea salt divided set aside. Then add the remaining bread, • 1 teaspoon nutmeg chives, thyme and cheeses to the kale and

leek mixing bowl. Mix thoroughly.

For the Custard Crack the eggs into a medium size mixing bowl. Add the milk, mustard, remaining salt, nutmeg, and pepper. Whisk until all ingredients are incorporated.

To Assemble Pour the egg mixture into the large bowl with the veggies and bread. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. Using the back of a spatula, firmly press the ingredients into the pan. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top and nudge the reserved bread into the cheese/egg mixture leaving pieces to stick out and crisp up as it bakes. This creates delicious little bits of crunchy goodness over the top of the dish.

To Hold or Bake Cover and refrigerate overnight OR allow to rest for at least 30 minutes prior to baking so the bread mixture has time to soak up the custardy mixture. Bake uncovered at 350F for about 48-55 minutes rotating the dish halfway through baking. The bread pudding is done when the top is golden, puffy and bubbly. Rest for five minutes then serve warm. Makes excellent leftovers!

Submit upcoming events to: office@13starsmedia.com

DECEMBER Calendar of Events Enjoy the evening around the lake with carolers, holiday decorations and more.

DECEMBER 2

Watch the 2023 World Surf League event at The Rock. For information, visit worldsurfleague.com.

LIGHTED BOAT PARADE EMBARCADERO, MORRO BAY 6-8pm

Presented by The Rotary Club, be fascinated as the fishing, leisure and DECEMBER 1-3, 9-10 AND 16 yachting community take to the water SANTA’S HOUSE with decorated boats with dazzling AT THE EMBARCADERO EMBARCADERO & FRONT ST., MORRO BAY lights and holiday cheer.

Take the plunge at the 44th Annual Carlin Soule Memorial Polar Bear Dip. Join them late morning for festivities that include music, dancing, prizes, and participant certificates. POLAR BEAR PLUNGE AVILA BEACH PIER 12 p.m

The 12th annual Avila Beach Polar Bear Plunge is a celebration of fitness, nature, a New Year, camaraderie, and still having dessert.

DECEMBER 8

WINTER WONDERLAND SUNKEN GARDENS, ATASCADERO 5-9pm

With over 50 tons of snow brought in, families can enjoy the winter fun of

All event’s dates and times are subject to change. Be sure to verify prior to attending.

The ONLY Bead & Garden Shop on the Central Coast! OPEN EVERY DAY! EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO BEAD

as well as a huge selection of succulents, air plants and miniature garden accessories

333 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay, CA

ads.com

HOLIDAY SIP AND SHOP SUNKEN GARDENS, DOWNTOWN ATASCADERO

This year’s 47th annual downtown SLO Holiday Parade theme is “Out of this World” and will have nearly 90 decorated floats, marching bands, vehicles, dancers and more marching in the parade for all to enjoy.

POLAR BEAR DIP CAYUCOS PIER 12 p.m.

DECEMBER 4-10

SLO CAL OPEN AND SURFING FOR HOPE LONGBOARD CLASSIC 101 COLEMAN DR., MORRO BAY

5:30-9pm

JANUARY 1

.3338

DECEMBER 1

7pm

Throughout the evening in Cambria, begin the holiday season shopping and seeing what local and festive treats are available.

ay Blvd., ay, CA

Check out the amazing decorations and activities in the plaza, including an evening light display, carousel, Santa’s Mouse Scavenger hunt, write letters to Santa, and more from November 25 through December 24, time TBD.

SLO HOLIDAY PARADE DOWNTOWN SLO

HOLIDAY MUSICAL WALK AROUND THE LAKE ATASCADERO LAKE

HOSPITALITY NIGHT DOWNTOWN CAMBRIA

a massive snow slide and two large snow pile areas. There will be bungee jumps, obstacle courses, entertainment and Santa and Mrs. Claus,

plants and miniature garden accessories

SANTA’S HOUSE & HOLIDAY PLAZA AT MISSION PLAZA, SAN LUIS OBISPO

DECEMBER 1

DECEMBER 2

DECEMBER 4

as well as a huge selection of succulents

DECEMBER

Visit Santa Claus Fridays and Saturdays from 4-8pm and Sundays noon-4pm. On December 1, after the tree lighting he will be back at his house at 6pm.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO BEAD

Bask in the holidays as the downtown HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING lights up and shopping and eating CELEBRATION is to be enjoyed. Shops will be open CITY PARK, 734 HARBOR ST., MORRO BAY late and wine and beer tastings 3:30pm will be available from participating Celebrate the tree lighting and see merchants. Santa in Morro Bay’s City Park.

OPEN EVERY DAY!

5:30-8pm

The ONLY Bead & Garden Shop on the Central Coast!

DECEMBER 1

805.772.3338

morrobaybeads.com

8 • DECEMBER 2023 • Morro Bay Life

Making Communities Better Through Print™

Happy

Holidays! Let’s celebrate the season of giving with a little something from us to you.

Serenity by the Sea Holiday Special!

Holidays Offerings

a gift for you with warm regards, Lisa

To redeem your coupon, bring this ad to participating vendors

LA PARISIENNE FRENCH BAKERY FREE small coffee with the purchase of a pastry. Good until Jan 1, 2024 1140 Front St., Morro Bay

FREE Root Beer Float or Ice Cream Sundae with the purchase of a meal. Good until Mar 1, 2024 945 Embarcadero, Morro Bay

FREE specialty drink with purchase of a ticket aboard Chablis Cruises. Good until Mar 1, 2024 www.chabliscruises.com

This holiday season, pamper yourself or give the gift of Serenity to a loved one. Morro Bay’s only full-service day spa is offering a 60-min Ultimate Massage combined with a Renewing Body Scrub for $145 (a $160 value). Holiday Gift Certificates Available! Serenity by the Sea Day Spa 545 Main Street, Suite C-1 Morro Bay, CA (805) 772-7333 www.serenitymorrobay.com

Good until Jan 1, 2024

Call or stop by the Tackle Shop for details 805-772-1222

½ DAY TRIP Buy 4 get 5 trips Savings of $102.35 Cost $ 409.40

FREE small Drip coffee with purchase of a pastry. Good until Jan 1, 2024 571 Embarcadero Suite A, Morro Bay

¾ DAY TRIP $5 COUPON Good until Mar 1, 2024 Coupon has no cash value 601 Embarcadero, Suite 8, Morro Bay

Buy 4 get 5 trips Savings of $125.35

Receive a $25 credit towards Summer Sailing Lessons at The Morro Bay Yacht Club starting June 2024. MBYCSS2024 541 Embarcadero, Morro Bay

Cost $ 501.40 Offer good for all scheduled trips onboard the Fiesta and Rita G Offer must be taken advantage of before the start of the 2024 season. (Charters are excluded from this offer)

Zillow.com/Profile/Lisa-Mia/ MORRO BAY • CAYUCOS • LOS OSOS • SAN LUIS OBISPO • CAMBRIA • ATASCADERO • PASO ROBLES • ARROYO GRANDE

LISA MIA

805.279.9381

Lisa@Lisamia.com

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL LIC. #01945215