Solstice Green Directory Spring 2021 Issue

Free

Spring 2021

Zap That Extra Sugar...pg 15 Thank You, Grandma...pg 22 Good News for Mother Earth...pg 29

Your Central Coast Guide to Green and Healthy Living!

Feeding our community

by Diane Parnell

The SLO Food Bank is working harder (805) 238-4664. • If you are than ever to deliver on their caring challenged but keeping your head mission to serve our hungry neighbors above water, they are rooting for your in need during the global health crisis. success and are ready to help if you The grim reality we face in the wake need them. • If you are in a position of the pandemic is to help others, please There are currently donate to SLO Food the rising number of people struggling with more than twice as Bank. With every dollar, food insecurity in our many SLO County seven rumbling tummies community. will find relief in a healthy residents facing and nutritious meal. For food insecurity During these the price of one large as before the challenging times, SLO pizza, you can feed over pandemic.

Food Bank hopes to 100 hungry neighbors in be a lifeline for people need. who find themselves struggling with hunger. Their message to you is as Please consider helping SLO Food Bank simple as it is genuine: in their efforts to alleviate hunger for our families, our children, our seniors, • If you need help, they are here for and our neighbors in need. you. Visit slofoodbank.org or call

To forget

how to dig

the earth and to tend the soil is to forget ourselves. ~ Mahatma Gandhi

The Pandemic...

maybe a silver lining?

Many valuable lessons were learned over the past 12 months.

Here's just one. The pandemic and subsequent stay-at-home orders had an unintentionally positive and significant initial impact on air pollution. Over 45 states were under stay-at-home orders at one point in the spring due to the COVID-19 crisis. A resulting drop in regional traffic, along with reduced industrial and commercial activity, led to a significant drop in air-polluting emissions.

These reductions were obviously short-term, but they showed that just as human activities have caused our changing climate and the impacts we’re experiencing, human activities also can slow and reverse the phenomenon. Maybe this pandemic can finally open our eyes to this important reality!

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.

2

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2021

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

Tech Support Jenny Malott

Bookkeeping/Copy Editor Diane Parnell

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

Solstice Green Directory is an officially certified California Green Business.

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 Spring 2021

DIRECTORY 4 FEATURES From Gas to Electric 9 An Earth Day Message 11 Plant Blased: Not Always Good for You 12 Sea Otter Saved in Morro Bay! 14 Zap That Extra Sugar!

15 How to Support Our Immunity 16 What to Do With Your Day? 18 Five Habits of Happy People 20 Thank You, Grandma!

22 Easy Crock Pot Bean Soup 24 Oh No... Not in the Dryer!

26 Best Places for Whale Watching!

28 Good News for Mother Earth!

29 Epsom Salts: Some Surprising Uses 30 3 Ways to Green the Office 31 Is it Time to Reconsider Your Lawn?

32

Directory ASTROLOGY SLO Astrologers

Contact at SLOAstrologers@aol.com On-going classes at the Gala Center, Palm St., SLO

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 17

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 17

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 17

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 19

CLEANING Coastline Cleaning Company (805) 400-5433

Commercial • General Office • Post Construction • Residential coastlinecleaning@ymail.com 3765 S. Higuera St., #140 San Luis Obispo Please see display ad on page 7

www.slosolstice.com 4

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2021

Green Clean Machine (805) 249-3816

Certified, Advanced, Level 3 EFT Practitioner Meridian tapping technique

www.miasimmons.com

www.gcmwellnessadvocate.com

Please see display ad on page 5

COMPUTER REPAIR & SERVICE Go! Computer Services www.go-cc.com (805) 704-0833

ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS Solarponics Atascadero: (805) 466-5595 San Luis Obispo: (805) 543-3436 Santa Maria: (805) 922-3774

gcmwellnessadvocate@gmail.com

More Than a Tech. More Than a Tutor.

On-Site Help for Your Computer!

Repair, Refurbish, Recycle, and More!

Please see display ad on page 21

CUISINE www.CasaFestiva.com

Solarponics.com

Please see display ad on back cover

181 Tank Farm Rd. Ste. 140, SLO

EMOTIONAL FREEDOM TECHNIQUES Mia Simmons, Cert. 1, ADV, Level 3 (805) 528-7586

Certified, Advanced, Level 3 EFT Practitioner Meridian tapping technique Please see display ad on page 5

Serving California’s Central Coast since 1975.

4700 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA

GREEN FLOORING Matt Clark Tile & Stone (805) 543-7600

“Exploring the culture of cuisine!”

Sustainability • Fun • Food & Wine Please see display ad on page 15

www.miasimmons.com

DIRECTORY

“Planet Friendly Cleaning with a Purpose” Eco Friendly Residential and Small Business Cleaning. Toxic Product and Green Living Consultations. Organization and Decluttering Packages

ENERGY WORK/ENERGY MEDICINE Mia Simmons, Cert. 1, ADV, Level 3 (805) 528-7586

www.mattclarktile.com

We carry beautiful environmentally friendly products Please see display ad on page 17

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

805.473.5064

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.

Like Us On Facebook! www.facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory Tell them you found them in Solstice! • www.slosolstice.com

5

DIRECTORY

GREEN-REALTOR C. Green Real Estate Co. (805) 481-7700

226 Front Street, Grover Beach 93433 Fax: (805) 481-9338 Cell: (805) 441-7370

www.cgreenrealestate.com

Please see display ad on page 21

HEALTH / DETOX Green Clean Machine (805) 249-3816

“Planet Friendly Cleaning with a Purpose” Eco Friendly Residential and Small Business Cleaning. Toxic Product and Green Living Consultations. Organization and Decluttering Packages

www.gcmwellnessadvocate.com gcmwellnessadvocate@gmail.com

HEALTH / FITNESS Avila Bay Athletic Club & Spa (805) 595-7600

Tropical paradise, tennis, ozone pools, classes incl. yoga, cafe & catering, conf. rooms, special events

avilabayclub.com

Please see display ad on page 17

HEALTH FOOD STORES 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

HONEY 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 17

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

805.473.5064 6

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2021

JANITORIAL Coastline Cleaning Company (805) 400-5433

Commercial • General Office • Post Construction • Residential coastlinecleaning@ymail.com 3765 S. Higuera St., #140 San Luis Obispo Please see display ad on page 7

JUICE BAR 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

NON-PROFIT ECOSLO: Environmental Center of San Luis Obispo

Protecting & preserving SLO County's natural beauty through education, advocacy, and action since 1971!

Contact us to get involved!

805-544-1777

@ecoslo on Facebook & Instagram

www.ECOSLO.org

Gay and Lesbian Alliance (805) 541-4252

1060 Palm Street, SLO Through education, support, recreation, advocacy, and partnerships, we promote the well-being of our LGBT community.

www.GALACC.org

Los Osos Cares • (805) 592-2701

We partner with other groups to help community members find resources and services.

Open Tues – Friday, 12 -4pm Sunnyside School 800 Manzanita Dr. Room 18 in Los Osos

losososcares.com

@solsticegreen

Sierra Club-Santa Lucia Chapter (805) 543-8717

SLO Green Build • (805) 286-0072

Non-profit green bldg education & support www.slogreenbuild.org

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 17

OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE Kathryn A. Perry, D.O. (805) 548-8490

777 Pismo Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 816 Main Street, Suite D Cambria, CA 93428 Please see display ad on page 19

DIRECTORY

547-B Marsh St • San Luis Obispo santalucia.sierraclub.org

PHYSICIAN Kathryn A. Perry, D.O. (805) 548-8490

RADIO BROADCASTING AGM California, Inc • (805) 781-2750

The Central Coast’s leading radio group: 98.1 KJUG, 93.3 KZOZ, COAST 104.5, The KRUSH 92.5 & 920 AM KVEC Locally owned and operated for over 30 years serving this community with pride.

Please see display ad on inside back cover

KCBX FM Public Radio (805) 549-8855

777 Pismo Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 816 Main Street, Suite D Cambria, CA 93428 Please see display ad on page 19

Symphonies, jazz, daily news & transforming stories Streaming live on the Internet at

www.KCBX.org

Please see display ad on page 25

PARKS & RECREATION Central Coast State Parks Association • (805) 548-0390

CCSPA supports interpretation, education, and volunteer efforts in local state parks.

1124 Nipomo Street, Suite B, SLO

centralcoastparks.org

Like Us On Facebook! facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory

REALTOR C. Green Real Estate Co. (805) 481-7700

226 Front Street Grover Beach 93433 Fax: (805) 481-9338 Cell: (805) 441-7370

www.cgreenrealestate.com

Please see display ad on page 21

Commercial Professional Office Post Construction Residential COASTLINE CLEANING CO.

HIPAA Compliant

Always Eco-Conscious

Deanna M. Onozuka 805.400.5433 PO Box 13508,

SLO 93406

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

7

DIRECTORY

RECYCLING Eco Club Five Cities (805) 489-9696

Find out how to “zero waste” your event!

Items recycled • Food stuff composted anita@missetiquette.com Please see display ad on page 23

RE-SALE The Green Room

226 Front Street, Grover Beach Unique restored and refurbished furniture and home decor Open by appointment only Email: Lcebulla@gmail.com

SPA SERVICES Avila Bay Athletic Club & Spa (805) 595-7600 ex.0

Use of club included on day of service! Full service spa including massage, mani & pedi, organic facials, and more!

6699 Bay Laurel Plc, Avila Beach

avilabayclub.com

Please see display ad on page 17

SOLAR ENERGY Solarponics Atascadero: (805) 466-5595 San Luis Obispo: (805) 543-3436 Santa Maria: (805) 922-3774 Serving California’s Central Coast since 1975.

4700 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA

Solarponics.com

Please see display ad on back cover

SUSTAINABLE FOOD & WINE www.CasaFestiva.com

“Exploring the culture of cuisine!”

Sustainability • Fun • Food & Wine Please see display ad on page 15

@solsticegreen

Like Us On Facebook!

facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory 8

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2021

TILE 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 17

ZERO WASTE Eco Club Five Cities (805) 489-9696

Find out how to “zero waste” your event!

Items recycled • Food stuff composted anita@missetiquette.com Please see display ad on page 23

what a great

Match!

Use matches instead of lighters.

Lighters are usually made of plastic and considered disposable so they will most likely end up as harmful and toxic landfill waste. So choose matches instead. Choose paper matches over wood matches however as they are much more eco-friendly. They are often made of recycled paper, whereas wooden matches require 5.5 million trees per year. And that's a lot!

from

Gas to Electric one car at a time...

by Diane Parnell It has been a rough year for humans. But here is some good news for our planet. It appears that the oil and gas industry is finally coming to terms with the realization that the world’s demand for oil has peaked.

Only 21% say they will increase investment in oil projects in 2021.

Keeping with that theme, General Motors is the latest auto giant to join the many that have launched aggressive electric-vehicle (EV) programs. GM plans to eliminate gasoline and diesel light-duty cars and SUVs by 2035, and expects to be carbon neutral by 2040.

“Major industries have to look to the future and anticipate it,” says Barry Rabe, a professor of public policy at the University of Michigan. “Do you really want to be the last one standing with the possibility that you’re just producing nostalgic vehicles?”

Others get it: Volkswagen will launch 70 new electric models in the next ten years; Ford is spending $11.5 billion on new EVs; and Tesla plans to increase sales of its all-electric fleet. Here in California, the goal is to stop sales of gasoline-powered automobiles within fifteen years. Let’s celebrate these positive steps in the global effort to save Mother Earth!

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

9

COVID-19

Resource Guide

SLO County Alternatives to calling 911...

Homeless Resources

Mental Health Crisis Lines

TMHA’s Homeless Outreach Team Miriam Vargas: (805) 550-7691

SLO Hotline: (800) 783-0607

SLO Community Action Team Tim Koznek: (805) 594-8041 John Klevins: (805) 781-7334

Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to: 741741

40 Prado Homeless Services Center

SLO: (805) 544-4004

LGBTQ+ Crisis Lines

El Camino Homeless Organization Atascadero: (805) 462-3663

National Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-8255

Trans Lifeline: (877) 565-8860 Trevor Project Lifeline: (866) 488-7386

Mental Health Guidance TMHA’s Behavioral Health Navigators Adults age 25 or older, contact Danielle: (805) 540-6552 Teens/young adults ages 16-25, contact Jovi: (805) 779-0706

Senior Resources

Family Care Network (for teens and youth) 805-781-3535

Domestic/Intimate Partner Violence Hotlines

County of SLO Behavioral Health 24/7 Hotline: (800) 838-1381

RISE: (805) 226-5400

CA Friendship Line: (888) 670-1360 Adult Protective Services: (805) 781-1790

Stand Strong: (805) 781-6401 CA Coalition Against Sexual Assault: (661) 327-1091 National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233

10

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2021

an

Earth Day message We celebrate Earth Day 2021! The suggestions that routinely appear, including recycle more and buy LED light bulbs, certainly help build a healthier world. But to really do the job, we need to change more than light bulbs. We need to change the way we think. Here are the top 5 things you can do: Burn less stuff. This means driving less, turning lights off, and other standard energy-saving strategies.

Pull your kids away from the TV and into the great outdoors. Kids who grow up without appreciating nature can grow into adults who don't understand why they should care about it. Planning your summer vacation? As theme parks discuss the potential of reopening, ditch the lines and health risks by visiting national parks instead. Become a life-cycler. Before you buy

anything, consider its full life cycle.

What's the product made from and where does that stuff come from?

How is it manufactured, where is it produced, and what occurs when it is? What happens when you use it?

And when it's thrown away? Go local.

Expand your definition of "local" to embrace things that are homemade, artisan-produced, used, and borrowed.

The idea is to replace our unintentional economic backing of destructive practices, products, and companies with support for local economies, communities, and individuals even if they aren't next door. Start sharing eco info. Yes, environmentalism is infectious. So tell everyone what you're doing and why. Tell your family, friends, neighbors, newspapers, and elected officials. Be friendly and compassionate, not pushy or selfrighteous, and share the inspiration with a smile.

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

11

just because it's

Plant Based...

doesn't mean it's good for you

by Annie Keohane

As more people turn to a vegan diet, new plant-based creations that mimic the taste and texture of meat and dairy products come on the market daily. On the one hand, this is a wonderful thing - a sprinkling of faux mozzarella on a vegan pizza, or Pepper Jack in an enchilada, adds a touch of authenticity to a favorite dish.

Grilled Tofu Pups were a tradition on July 4th when my son was little. Tofurkey at Thanksgiving. Why not, as a treat? But vegans should be aware that these highly processed foods are not a healthful replacement for whole foods. Read labels, as some brands are more pure than others. And consider, which sounds more wholesome: Potatoes or potato starch? Peas or pea protein isolate?

Beans or processed wheat gluten? There is a scientifically documented synergy between the chemical compounds in plants which accounts for their incredible health-giving benefits.

Once you break them down, and isolate this from that, that synergy disappears. Eating whole foods, as unprocessed as possible, is the most sensible way to go.

12

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2021

message from the south county

Chambers of Commerce

by Jocelyn Brennan, President/CEO

Great news for shoppers! You can earn free gift cards by shopping, dining, and supporting salon/personal care as well as fitness services in Grover Beach. When a shopper spends $100 or more at a Grover Beach small business (in the retail, restaurant, brewery, winery, fitness, and salon/personal services sectors), the shopper can select a free gift card for $25. To claim the gift card, shoppers need to upload their receipt of $100 or more to southcountychambers.com and choose their preferred gift card. The selected gift card will be mailed to the recipient within one to two weeks. In partnership with the South County Chambers of Commerce, the City Council of Grover Beach launched the #BuyLocal program as part of their ongoing efforts to stimulate the economy, retain local jobs, and help small businesses recover and thrive. For further details, please visit southcountychambers.com, or call our Chamber office at (805) 489-1488.

Reach over

30,000 Readers for only $ 109

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

13

Sea Otter saved in morro bay!

by Margaret Hennessy

It looked like a strange black elongated shape on the edge of the water in Morro Bay just lying still on the sand. What was it? Luckily the beach area was empty so this poor creature was spared curious individuals walking over and taking a closer look. Then I saw the red Marine Mammal Center truck. Thank goodness! After a brief assessment of the situation they determined it was a female sea otter in distress. I watched as they worked as a well coordinated team and lifted her gently into a crate and loaded her on the back of their vehicle which looked well equipped with

14

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2021

nets, poles, and all types of equipment to deal with situations just like this one.

These rescue centers are located in Marin, Monterey and San Luis Obispo Counties. The Center rescues, cares for these animals, and investigates the threats they face in the wild. I felt fortunate to see them save this amazing sea creature, and they assured me she would be fine after some TLC. If you see a sick or injured sea mammal please call their hotline: (415) 289-SEAL Visit their website: www.MarineMammalCenter.org

Zap that extra Sugar!

by Katy Budge

If you’re trying to avoid excess sugar (as most of us should), processed food is not your friend.

A glance at most labels usually reveals a surprising amount of it.

One way to skirt around that is to make more of your own food from scratch. It’s much easier than you might think.

For example, instead of purchasing individual servings of pre-flavored yogurt, buy a larger container of plain yogurt and keep some favorite additions on hand. Those can run the gamut from applesauce to maple syrup, fresh fruit to jams and preserves, granola to shredded coconut. Plus, you’ll cut down on the extra packaging needed for all those individual servings.

Flavored beverages are also a sneaky source for sugar, in part because it makes them taste good! If sodas are

your thing, try substituting juice mixed with sparkling water and ice. It will have far less sugar, and be healthier overall.

This approach can even work with fermented juice – as in wine. Obviously, you don’t want to use that bottle you’ve been saving for a special occasion, but you’d be surprised how refreshing a wine spritzer on the rocks can be on hot summer days. Lighter, dry white wines like Pinot Grigio work especially well for this, and also for refreshingly festive fruit-based sangrias.

Summertime means grilling time, but think outside that bottle of barbecue sauce. Instead, make your own, such as mixing together soy sauce, garlic, pineapple juice, and some local honey for a riff on teriyaki. In foods like this, by the way, there’s an added benefit to cutting down on added sugar because you’ll be cutting down on added salt as well!

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

15

how to

Support

our

Immunity...

by Jenny Dull-Frost L.Ac.

Each person is special and we all have our vulnerabilities in health.

Immunities can be different as well.

Some may have had asthma/allergies/ pneumonia lung tendencies, others might have gut issues, and some have developed autoimmune syndromes.

Bodily inflammation starts developing as we age due to genetics, poor lifestyle habits, poor nutrition, stress, insomnia, injuries, as well as excess alcohol or sugar. Here are some ideas you can choose from to help support you through the stress of Covid-19, and to build a stronger immunity: 1) Buffered Vitamin C: 2,000mg/day 2) Vitamin D3/K2: 5,000-10,000 IU/day, can increase to 20,000-50,000 if you are getting sick (for example: 50,000 IU/day for 3 days for initial onset of cold/flu and then taper down to 10,000IU) 3) Zinc 4) Cod liver oil (naturally occurring Vitamin A and D) 5) Lysine, Quercetin 6) Glutathione, CoQ10, Organic CBD full-spectrum 7) Vitamin A from food source 8) Whole food multi-vitamin 9) Magnesium: calm stress, help sleep, relax muscles, boosts immunity.

Herbs: (please work with an herbalist) Cordyceps, Echinacea, Astragalus, Ashwagandha / Herbal Throat Spray / Oregano Oil / Olive Leaf Extract / Lonicera / Honeysuckle Flower / Andrographis.

16

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2021

get

Crackin’ Do you like fresh ground pepper? The next time a waiter asks if you would like some, say "yes!" Piperine, the compound that gives black pepper its kick, may prevent the formation of new fat cells, according to a study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.

Researchers say the substance might one day be used as a supplement to help treat obesity. Spinkle some pepper next time!

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 Family Membership Makes a Great Gift!

Club use included w/spa service

Relax by one of our pools

Or take a fitness class!

(805) 595-7600 • AvilaBayClub.com

6699 Bay Laurel Place, Avila Beach, CA

CBD Pain Relief 8778 Plata Lane, Atascadero LifeElements.com 17

what do you do with

Your Day?

by The “Green” Franciscan Sister, Janet Corcoran, OSF

Every day we are gifted with 86,400 seconds or 1,440 minutes.

Yes, precious moments to spend for the betterment of Mother Earth.

Each year, we celebrate National Mother Earth Day. During this time, we are reminded that it is Mother Earth Day everyday. Marshall McLuhan reminds us, “There are no passengers on Spaceship Earth.

We are all crew.” Each day we are called to be crew, and wise stewards of creation by reusing, reducing, recycling, and conserving the goods of Mother Earth. Here are some thoughts that challenge and remind us of our responsibility to be respectful of the human and natural environment: “The best investment on earth is earth.” - Luis J. Glickman • “The sun shines not on us, but in us.”- John Muir • “Forget not that the earth delights to

18

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2021

feel your bare feet, and the winds long to play with your hair.” - Khalil Gibran • “The earth is what we all have in common.” - Wendell Berry • “Service is the rent you pay for your room on earth.” - Mohammed Ali • “Mankind has not woven the web of life. We are but one thread within it. Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves. All things are bound together, all things connect." - Chief Seattle • “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtfully committed citizens can change the world. Indeed it’s the only thing that ever has.” - Margaret Mead Hopefully, these thoughts will leave an imprint on our minds and hearts, which will result in each of us being more environmentally friendly in our day-today living. Continue to spend 86,400 seconds or 1,440 minutes each day demonstrating a respect and care for Mother Earth.

say Goodbye to Fabric Softener!

To reduce your family’s exposure to a variety of chemicals that may cause asthma and allergies, the Environmental Working Group suggests you simply skip fabric softener. Try filling your fabric softener compartment with white vinegar to help with softness (don’t worry, your laundry won’t smell like vinegar!).

Remember!

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

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.

R. Barkley & Associates

Business Back Office Accounting & Taxes IRS & Government Representation Financial Services Home Mortgages

Robert C. Barkley Certified Public Accountant

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

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

19

five habits of

Happy People!

During these unfamiliar times, reports of depression have increased greatly. Want to fight the blues? Take a look at this fascinating list of five things that people who are not depressed and who lead what they consider happy lives with a positive mental attitude, usually have in common. How many of these things do you have in your own life?

1) Plenty of Affectionate Give and Take. This can be measured in everything from the number of hugs we give and receive to the giving of praise or help to others. While hugs may not be in the cards for many of us currently, friendly interactions with the check-out clerk or a loving phone call to a friend are excellent substitutes. 2) Staying Happily Busy. People who are engaged in many pleasant hobbies and interests have less time to brood or be unhappy. Note, however, that “happily busy” is not the same as “stressed busy” or “way too busy.” 3) Making the Best of It. Trying to maintain a positive attitude in the face of adversity is a great indicator of happiness.

When we ask “What am I meant to learn from this?” rather than “Why me?” we’re halfway there. 4) A Sense of Purpose. When we believe we are here for a reason, that our lives have purpose and meaning, we are more apt to be happy. It is a hallmark of real joy to know what your passions are, and to pursue them. 5) Faith. Whether you belong to an organized religion, or believe in the power of prayer or positive energy, several studies suggest that having a spiritual belief system of some sort, leads to a longer life and less depression.

20

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2021

Growing your own

Catnip!

Cats can be capricious, unruly, and most imporantly, dear to our hearts.

For those felines that enjoy chewing on your house plants, keeping them safe can sometimes feel like a full-time job.

One way to combat this behavior is by growing your own cat grass (more commonly known as "catnip"). It's costeffective, easy to do, and will encourage your cat to eat what you've grown and not other plants around the home that could be hazardous to cats if ingested.

Catnip can grow to a height of 18–36" long and spread widely if undisturbed, so it’s recommended you transplant the seedlings once they are off to a good start. This will ensure maximum use for your cat.

Quick Tip! For those times that you do choose to opt for hot water, make sure you’re not overheating the water.

Turn down the thermostat on your water heater to 120º F (many water heaters are set at 140º F).

Carmen Green

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

cgreenrealestate.com • 805.441.7370

21

thank you,

Grandma!

by Margaret De Stefano

Which family member increases longevity? According to a study published in the journal Proceedings of the Royal Society, the answer is grandmothers. “Grandmothering was the initial step toward making us who we are,” says study author. Grandmothering helped us to develop a whole array of social capacities that are then the foundation for the evolution of other distinctly human traits, including pair bonding, bigger brains, learning new skills and our tendency for cooperation.

Researchers simulated what would happen to the lifespan of a hypothetical primate species if they introduced

22

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2021

menopause and grandmothers as part of the social structure. Without menopause, older women would simply continue to mother children, instead of acting as grandmothers. All children would still be entirely dependent on their mothers for survival, so once older mothers died, many young offspring would likely die too. The theory is by no means definitive, but the new mathematical evidence serves as another crucial piece of support for it.

This could help anthropologists better understand human evolution, and should give you another reason to go thank your grandmother!

build a new

Love Nest!

Most birds build a new nest each year, though some refurbish their old nests. Did you know that birds make on average about 500 trips to build a nest. This spring, build a house for our feathered friends. Native birds can be easily attracted to most areas providing they can find a place to lay their eggs. A few pieces of timber, a couple of nails, a saw and some bird feed can attract birds and enhance a garden's natural enjoyment.

Eco Club Five Cities will “Zero Waste” your event!

Appropriate items recycled.

Food stuff collected and taken to compost facility.

Contact us for more information:

805.489.9696

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

23

easy crock pot

Bean Soup Recipe: Drizzle olive oil on bottom of the crock pot and add 1 cup of black beans / 1 cup kidney beans / 1 cup cooked white beans (all beans fresh cooked or canned) / ½ cup fresh chopped cilantro / 1 chopped green bell pepper / 1 chopped red bell pepper / 2 medium diced red onions / 1 cup diced tomatoes / 8 cloves of minced garlic / 2 tablespoons dried oregano / ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper / 2 tablespoons ground cumin. Add 5 cups of vegetable broth. Cook on low setting for about 8 hours in your crock pot. Helpful tip: Crock pots work best when ⅔ to ¾ full.

24

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2021

eco-clean your

Mattress!

Pour about 1 cup of baking soda into a Mason jar and add 4 drops of lavender essential oil. Replace lid and shake jar. Using a kitchen strainer, sprinkle the baking soda mixture all over the mattress and let it set for an hour or more.

Thoroughly vacuum the mattress. Bye, bye dust mites, and other nasty things. The baking soda helps draw up any moisture, deodorizes it and leaves your mattress smelling fresh and clean. Use it to deodorize carpets too!

 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

25

Oh No...

It’s easy to just throw everything in the dryer from the washer and call it a day, but there can be some major consequences for some of your clothing if you do that.

Here are some dryer no-no's: Activewear: Since most activewear is coated to protect from the sun’s rays, it’s definitely not dryer-friendly. The heat can also wear away on any elastic properties and weaken the material, leading to tears, holes, and runs.Try hanging or laying flat to dry. Dryer Sheets: Yes, you read that right. While dryer sheets might be intended to be used, well, in the dryer, that doesn’t mean they’re good for your health.

They are bad for your respiratory system, your skin, and moreover, the environment.

Try scented wool balls using essential oils.

Lingerie: As anyone who has tossed lingerie in the dryer might know, this greatly reduces its lifespan. Treat your undergarments gently. Put bras in special lingerie bags or better yet hand

26

wash and hang dry. Sandy Towels and Beachwear: Sand can get trapped between gaps in the drum. This adds an irritating sound when drying and can actually damage the dryer over time.

Pet Hair: If the hair builds up over time, it could begin combining with lint and debris around it, especially if the lint screen isn’t emptied before every load.

Excess dryer lint is a major fire hazard, it can cause your dryer to become damaged, and also reduces its efficiency.

Not in the Dryer!

by Margaret De Stefano

Chewing Gum: Unfortunately, by the time you notice, the damage has probably already been done. Gum can have lasting damage if left in the pockets of your clothes. It can either permanently stick itself to clothes or fall out of the pocket and stretch all over the wall of your dryer. Spandex: If you toss them in the dryer, they probably won’t ruin your machine itself, but there’s a good chance they’ll shrink a bit, which could be costly to replace. Hang dry to avoid

shrinking. Suede: While some faux leather is actually washable, it should never be put in the dryer. Heat melts plastic, ruining your garment and possibly your dryer. Air drying your suede garments is best. Tights or Pantyhose: You probably know how easy it is for them to rip and tear. Try rolling your freshly laundered tights into a dry towel and let them dry overnight. Lace: Lay your lace garment flat to dry so it doesn’t lose its natural shape or damage the fabric. Anything Embellished: Sequins, gems, stones, or whatever other items that are embellished onto your garments can hook onto other items in the dryer, or even the dryer itself. This can damage the garment itself and its surroundings. Lay on a towel to air out. Silk: Avoid both washer and dryer when it comes to silk garments. Try laying it flat to dry on a towel, then rolling it up inside of it to squeeze out excess moisture and repeat this process with a second towel.

Rubber-Backed Bath Mats: The rubber can crumble and get caught in the dryer, causing a fire hazard.

27

best places for

Whale

Watching!

by Alicia Hawkins

Looking for a fun outdoor activity for the family? Give whale watching a try! Thanks to an abundance of krill and nutrient-rich water, the California central coast is a major “highway” for many whales completing their migration year round. Since whales can be seen as close as two miles from the shore, the central coast makes a great place to spot grey whales, humpback whales, blue whales, and more!

You and your family can check out your favorite species by land or sea; board a whale watching cruise (if available) or take a drive to your favorite spot along the coast. Areas such as the bluffs in Montana de Oro State Park, Point Lobos in Carmel, and Big Sur are great spots to make a sighting by land. So pack up those binoculars, slap on some sunscreen, and enjoy some of the beauty the California coast has to offer!

28

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2021

good news for

Mother Earth!

by Madeline Palaszewski

There is a lot to be optimistic about as we celebrate spring and Earth Day on the Central Coast. Flowers are in bloom, skies are clear and changes to environmental policies are good news for Mother Earth. The United States has rejoined the Paris Climate Accord. In doing so, we will work with other countries in an effort to combat global climate change.

There is a renewed effort to increase fuel efficiency for vehicles and accelerate the rollout of clean energy such as solar and wind.

Clean water has become a challenge for many communities.

There is a renewed commitment to regulating PFAS chemicals found in the drinking water of almost all Americans. According to the National Resources Defense Council, millions of miles of streams and tens of millions of acres of wetlands will once again be protected under the federal Clean Water Act. There is also good news for wildlife on the horizon. Many rollbacks in protecting wildlife and endangered species are being reviewed and will probably be reversed.

There are many more policy changes that will ultimately protect our environment and our health. So many reasons to smile this Earth Day!

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

29

Epsom Salts

some surprising uses!

Epsom salts have amazing health benefits. Most of us know that soaking in a tub full of hot water with a few cups of Epsom Salts is good for relaxing muscles and drawing toxins from the body.

When magnesium sulfate is absorbed through the skin, such as in a bath, it draws toxins from the body, sedates the nervous system, reduces swelling, relaxes muscles, is a natural emollient, exfoliator, and much more...

Relaxing and sedative bath: Soak in warm water and 2 cups of epsom salt. Foot soak: Soothe aches, remove odors and soften rough skin with a foot soak. Add ½ cup of epsom salt to a large pan of warm water. Soak feet for as long as it feels right. Rinse and dry.

Soak sprains and bruises: Epsom salt will reduce the swelling of sprains and bruises. Add 2 cups epsom salt to a warm bath, and soak. Splinter 30

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2021

remover: Soak in epsom salt, it will draw out the splinter. Face cleaner: To clean your face at night, mix a half-teaspoon of epsom salt with your regular cleansing cream. Just massage into skin and rinse with cold water.

Homemade skin mask: Apply the mask to damp skin. For normal to oily skin, mix 1 tbsp of cognac, 1 egg, ¼ cup of non-fat dry milk, the juice of 1 lemon, and a half-teaspoon of epsom salt. For normal to dry skin, mix ¼ cup of grated carrot, 1½ tsp of mayonnaise and a half-teaspoon of epsom salt.

Skin exfoliator: Massage handfuls of epsom salt over your wet skin, starting with your feet and continuing up towards the face. Have a bath to rinse.

Remove hairspray: Combine 1 gal of water, 1 cup of lemon juice, and 1 cup epsom salt. Combine, cover and let set for 24 hours. The next day, pour the mixture into your dry hair and let it sit for 20 minutes. Then shampoo as normal.

3 ways to Green the

Office!

by Margaret De Stefano

1. Leave the hard copy reports. Use online (versus hard copy) versions of items such as annual reports, and information memorandums. Cut and paste necessary information and/or print only those pages instead of the whole report. If you have to print, make sure you print on both sides of the paper. 2. Install 'task' lighting - i.e. an efficient lamp for your desk so that a whole bay of overhead lights doesn't have to be turned on for just one person. It's easier on the eyes too.

3. Buy recycled ink and toner cartridges. Reconditioned or remanufactured printer, photocopier and fax machine ink/toner cartridges are available for many brands. If your brand of machine doesn't allow these sort of cartridges to be used (some don't) consider switching to one that does when you refresh your equipment. Also make sure you take spent cartridges to a certified recycling facility, rather than just putting them in the bin. On the other hand, you may be able to refill your empty cartidges at a local office supply retailer!

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

31

is it time to

Reconsider your

Lawn?

by Margaret De Stefano

Spring is here. That means giving a little TLC to home gardens and maybe lawns. But lawns require huge quantities of water and often chemical treatments to maintain them, not to mention the emissions produced by two-cycle lawnmowers. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, running a lawnmower for one hour emits as much air pollution as driving a typical car 100 miles. This resource allocation becomes more and more difficult to justify as climate change continues to dry up once-productive habitat. Typically, lawns displace landscapes that could benefit people, plants, animals, and insects. It’s time to reconsider lawns on a grand scale, several researchers have concluded. Here in California where water shortages are a growing crisis,

32

Solstice Green Directory - Spring 2021

cities encourage a process known as “xeriscaping,” where each square foot of lawn is replaced with native or watersaving landscapes. Some homeowners and neighborhoods are replacing lawns with edible plants and fruit trees. The relationship between native plants and insects has also inspired gardeners to do more than just turn their yards into native oases. One of the best ways to help bees that are struggling to find food at the beginning and end of the nectar flow is to choose some bee friendly plants and flowers. Your local nursery can guide you in your selection. The National Wildlife Federation created a native plant finder web tool which allows users to plug in a ZIP code to find trees, shrubs, and plants native to their region.

10 WAYS SOLARPONICS CAN HELP REDUCE

YOUR ENERGY BILL, ADD COMFORT, and

SAVE MONEY 4 3 WATER RE-CIRC PUMP 2 RADIANT HEATING & COOLING

WIND ENERGY

5 SOLAR ELECTRIC 26% tax credit

6 HOME EV CHARGER Charge 7X faster

Save 12,000 gals. of water/year

7 HOME BATTERY Savings + security

1 HEAT PUMP WATER HEATING

8 HEAT PUMP POOL HEATING 9 VARIABLE SPEED POOL PUMP

60% more efficient

80% more energy efficient

10 POOL SALT-WATER CHLORINATOR BATTERY

We’re more than just a solar energy company. We’re a live-cleaner-and-smarter company. From sub-floor to rooftop, Solarponics specializes in sustainable energy systems that will save you money and enrich your life.

RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • SERVICE • UPGRADE

(805) 466-5595 www.solarponics.com

CSLB #391670 • SINCE 1975