At SLO Veg, the old adage, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is, doesn’t hold water. When you add up all the benefits of SLO Veg’s fresh and local fall harvest boxes, you see the benefits really are too good–the benefits that you and your family receive from the nutrient rich fruits and vegetables, picked daily by local farmers and delivered to your doorstep within 24 hours of harvest. On average, fruits and vegetables available at grocery stores travel 1,500 to 2,500 miles from farm to your plate. And even if they are stored in optimum temperatures, they continue to lose vitamins while on shelves. With SLO Veg produce boxes; you’re getting the nutrients and vitamins essential to keeping your immune system strong. Oh, and there’s the convenience of having your fresh and delicious harvest box delivered right to your doorstep!
Afew words from our members...
SLO Veg is providing fresh and local food to the community. They have great customer service and the food they deliver is equally amazing. Have I mentioned that it is affordable as well? SLO Veg is a great contribution to the community, helping to connect local farmers and consumers. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!
~ Jordan Rhodes
My sister gave a box to me for my birthday and it was like Christmas opening it up and seeing all of the amazing veggies and fruit inside. Thank you SLOVEG!!!! ~ Kim Wilson
Awesome service! With all of their add-ons I can plan my whole weeks menu and never have to leave the house to do so.
~ Bartimaeus Alan LMT, ACMT
No Contract Required. Enjoy $10 off First Order with Promo Code: solstice24
Love is to the heart, what the summer is to the farmer's year. It brings to harvest all the loveliest flowers of the soul.
Love is to the heart, what the summer is to the farmer's year. It brings to harvest all the loveliest flowers of the soul.
~ Author Unknown
~ Author Unknown
Little things mean A Lot...
The journey to a greener lifestyle is ongoing, and sometimes it really feels overwhelming. There’s always something new to learn and ways to improve. You can attend local workshops, follow online communities, and connect with others who are also on this same path. Reading this little publication helps! Your journey to be more sustainable may inspire others, creating a ripple effect beyond your home. By composting organic waste, making your own cleaning and personal care products, supporting eco-friendly businesses, involving other members in your household, and continuously seeking improvement, you can significantly reduce your environmental footprint. Don't forget to celebrate your progress, and remember that every effort, no matter how small, contributes to a larger positive impact on our planet, and persistence is key to creating lasting change. Have a great summer!
Margaret Hennessy Founder/Publisher
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.
by Jenny
The Green Team: John Karp, Diane Parnell, Margaret Hennessy, Madeline Palaszewski, and Monte Allen
Photo
Malott
Solstice Publishing, LLC 4251 South Higuera Street, Suite 800 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (805) 473-5064 www.slosolstice.com info@slosolstice.com facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory
ANIMAL RESCUE
Pacific Wildlife Care (805) 543-WILD (9453)
On Call 365 Days per Year
PacificWildlifeCare.org
ART/APPAREL
Coastal Vibes • (805) 270-4006
Electric bike rental and sales, local art, custom t-shirts and more www.coastalvibes805.com
Rising home costs are forcing people to turn to alternative housing options. One solution, the repurposing of thousands of old shipping containers sitting on loading docks, is an idea that has grown into a booming industry. According to Living in a Container, over a million people worldwide currently live in a converted shipping container.
Affordability, sustainability, customizability and durability are four of the main attractions to this trend. The homes offer a unique and creative spin on traditional living spaces. They are also energy efficient and reduce
construction material usage, further promoting sustainable living, reports Alternative Livings Space, a seller of these homes.
Cities nationwide are also paying attention as they work to address another aspect of the housing crisis: the issue of homelessness. In Atlanta, the Atlanta Rapid House Initiative set a goal of building 500 low-cost microunits on city-owned land by 2025. The Melody, which consists of 40 shipping containers converted into tiny homes, is the first such project. Hopefully, this successful solution will serve as a blueprint to other communities!
Artificial Intelligence and Medical Research!
by Zoe Allen
There are many benefits of using AI in healthcare and some are already becoming highly relevant in the medical field. It can enhance the results already achieved on various fronts and help combat countless situations within hospitals. It has the potential to transform diagnostics, medical research, and patient experiences. Currently, scientific studies have already confirmed the benefits, especially in the more accurate diagnosis of critical conditions such as sepsis and stroke. AI can assist healthcare professionals in identifying early signs of sepsis, a potentially fatal condition characterized by a systemic inflammatory response to an infection. AI algorithms can analyze a variety of
data, including vital signs, laboratory test results, and even language patterns in electronic medical records to identify patients at risk of developing sepsis, determining the onset of the most appropriate treatment and saving lives. But it doesn't stop there; AI algorithms can analyze medical images, such as CT scans and MRIs, to identify signs of stroke with remarkable accuracy. Early diagnosis is crucial to minimize brain damage and improve outcomes for many patients. AI's potential in healthcare is undeniable. From early disease detection to improved treatment plans. Here's a footnote. Similar advancements can also lead to more personalized financial services and fraud prevention.
matching dollars for
Food Assistance
by Katy Budge
Though at the time of this writing there’s still the threat of a line item veto, it seems that Market Match, a very popular and successful state food safety net program, has been spared the legislative chopping block. Since 2009, low income households that qualify for CalFresh (aka food stamps) assistance have been able to amplify their buying power at participating farmers’ markets through the Market Match program. The CalFresh assistance is distributed via an Electronic Benefits (EBT) card, similar to a bank debit card. As long as the market has the ability to process the card, program participants can receive script to spend on eligible items, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, and prepared food items like jellies and hummus. If the market is authorized for the Market Match program, participants get additional matching script, but can
only spend it on fruits and vegetables. Either application of those EBT benefits at markets incentivizes users to buy fresh produce, plus it’s a big win for farmers as they have another customer base supporting them at markets. And for small family farmers, those markets are crucial, making up most of their income. Almost all of the farmers’ markets in San Luis Obispo County are participants in the CalFresh program, and a majority of them offer Market Match funds as well. In addition, both the Halcyon Farms stand in Arroyo Grande and the Talley Farms Fresh Harvest box program accept EBT. To find out which California farmers’ markets participate in these successful food assistance programs, go to the FMFinder.org website (where information is also available in Spanish).
Summer Plans?
by Zoe Allen
It's summer and the kids are out of school, maybe bouncing off the walls or shrieking "I'm bored." If summer camp isn't an option, you may be looking for new ideas. Here are 11 ideas for your summer "to do" bucket list which will create memories that they'll have for a lifetime, or at least for that first day of school when they're asked "what did you do this summer?" 1) Visit a farmer's market and try a new fruit or veggie (easy on the Central Coast!) 2) Have a picnic at a state park, and enjoy a lunch you prepare yourself with healthy snacks. 3) Visit a nature center and make a collage from nature objects you find along the way. 4) Plant a garden of herbs and veggies (you can do it in containers, and be sure to mark them!) 5) Collect all kinds of rocks and paint them to use as paperweights or pet rocks. 6) Set up a tent in the backyard to use as a summer playhouse, picnic spot or a special place to do some stargazing at night. Identify as many constellations as possible and see if there are any local astronomy groups for kids. 7) Make bird feeders by covering pine cones (go searching for them) with peanut butter and rolling in birdseed. 8) Visit a retirement home and read stories to the residents. They will love it. 9) Print out a list of award winning (Caldecott Medals) children's books. Visit the local library throughout the summer and try to read as many as you can. 10) Stage an A to Z scavenger hunt, where you have to find something that starts with every letter. 11) Last but not least, bake cookies for your own ice cream sandwiches. The combinations are endless! We hope this list has been an inspiration (grandma and grandpa too) in finding ways to enjoy time with the kids this summer. Keep cool and enjoy the summer!
Hot Weather seniors and
by Zoe Allen
Many people are not aware of the risks that extreme heat poses and how to stay safe. The US National Weather Service just introduced a new Heat Risk forecast map showing where people will face dangerous levels of heat. Recently, the entire southern US, from California to Florida, was baking in yet another earlyseason heat-wave, with Phoenix, Arizona setting a new daily high of 112ºF. Heat disproportionately affects elderly people. Research shows that older adults don’t sense heat the same way. Physicians have found that the heart has to sometimes pump two to four times more blood each minute than it would on a cooler day. Older people don’t sweat as much. They have essentially a less efficient cooling system. This summer check in with each other and older members of your family and friends to make sure we stay safe!
Join The Green Team
health benefits of Ayurveda Health News
Ayurveda is all about balance. A natural system of medicine, originated in India more than 3,000 years ago, the term Ayurveda is derived from the Sanskrit words ayur (life) and veda (science of knowledge). Using this knowledge, Ayurveda focuses on bringing balance to our life. Since disease is due to an imbalance or stress in a person’s mindfulness, Ayurveda encourages certain lifestyle changes and natural therapies to regain balance between body, mind, spirit and the environment.
To achieve an Ayurveda balance, a personalized plan is prepared that can include massage, specialized diets, herbs and foods, exercise, detoxification, and rejuvenation therapies.
by Madeline Palaszewski
Ayurveda also aims to find the root cause of your symptoms and treats you according to your constitution, offering a comprehensive approach to body and mind wellness rather than treating a condition symptomatically. Ayurvedic treatments have shown some benefit in clinical trials for conditions like anxiety, brain function, high cholesterol, osteoarthritis, and low testosterone.
The ancient practice of Ayurveda may bring balance to your life. Most communities have Ayurveda practitioners to assist in designing and implementing your plan.
for Women
Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) also known
as "tapping"
By Mia Simmons, Certified EFT Practitioner
If you’re struggling with life’s challenges and need an effective, gentle non-drug therapy, EFT or tapping offers a safe way of relieving psychological stress and pain. Tapping provides relief from chronic pain, stress, fear, anxiety, panic, trauma, PTSD, addictions, depression and insomnia. It works holistically to integrate emotions, sensory information and cognitions utilizing awareness and mindfulness. Based on health and wellness methods such as acupuncture, EFT uses fingertip tapping on Chinese meridian acupuncture
endpoints, gently balancing the body’s energy system. Tapping has gained wide acceptance and its effectiveness is documented in over a hundred published evidence based studies and fifty randomized controlled trials. The U.S. Veterans Administration approves Emotion Freedom Techniques for treatment of PTSD. Tapping shifts unconscious beliefs and emotions, restoring and supporting health and wholeness. EFT is rapid, safe and effective. Why wait? Transform your life today with EFT.
Emotional Freedom Techniques
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, and reduces cortisol levels. EFT balances the activity of the parasympathetic and sympathetic regions of the brain, making EFT a powerful healing tool.
remember Wildlife this summer!
by Lori Waters
As summer lures people outdoors, it's crucial to consider the impact of our activities on wildlife, including vulnerable species in our area like the Western Snowy Plover. The summer season often brings increased human traffic to our beaches, where these small shorebirds nest and forage. Unfortunately, this heightened activity can lead to habitat destruction, disturbance, and accidental trampling of nests, threatening the survival of these already endangered birds. Moreover, plastic pollution, a pervasive issue for our coast, poses a significant threat to marine life, including the Western Snowy Plover and other shorebird species. Climate change compounds these challenges, altering coastal ecosystems and exacerbating habitat loss. To safeguard the Western Snowy Plover and its habitat during
the summer, individuals can take proactive steps. These include properly disposing of trash, choosing ecofriendly beach products, and respecting posted nesting areas. It’s crucial we support local conservation initiatives and advocate for habitat protection to ensure the survival of this delicate species. By raising awareness and adopting responsible behaviors, we can enjoy summer activities while protecting the Western Snowy Plover and its coastal habitat for generations to come.
Energy Saving Tips for
• Set your thermostat at the highest comfortable setting
• Change air filters regularly
• Use a ceiling fan in occupied rooms to supplement your air conditionings
• Close blinds, drapes and curtains during the hottest part of the day
• Grill outdoors
• Turn off unnecessary lights
• Apply weather stripping to doors
• Lower your dishwasher and washing machine temperatures
• Use smart power strips
• Install better insulation in your home
• Caulk around windows and doors
• Install energy efficient windows www.carstairsenergy.com
why be Kind?
by Margaret De Stefano
Make a stranger smile with an act of kindness. Even the smallest gesture can mean a great deal to someone in need. Any act of kindness, no matter how big or small can make a difference, especially when done intentionally. Random acts of kindness don’t just transform the life of the recipient, they help the person performing the acts too! Inspiring your children to be kind is a great parenting tool and this list of ideas will help you learn how and when to use it. Here you go:
• Buy a bouquet of daisies and leave one on people’s windshield with a note that says, "Have a Nice Day." • Tell a mom that she’s doing a good job (she probably never hears that!) • When you make soup, bring a small container over to an elderly neighbor • If it’s trash day and your neighbor has forgotten, drag their stuff to the curb • Tell a surly cashier at the grocery that you like her earrings • If someone is short a quarter at the store, give them one or cover it for them • Yield your parking space to the other person vying for it • Send an email to someone’s boss telling them what a good job they're doing • Pay the toll of the car behind you • Pass along extra coupons • Add a quarter to a stranger’s parking meter if they're about to get a ticket • If you’re walking your dog, offer to take a neighbor’s dog as well • Driving to the dump? Offer to take your neighbor’s trash, as well. • Write a teacher you loved when you were a kid a Thank You note • Tell a veteran you appreciate what he or she did for your country.
Panna Cotta
dairy-free, gluten-free
Recipe by Sara Garofalo
Ingredients: 2 14-oz cans coconut milk 400 ml each, 3-5 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp powdered agar agar, 1 tsp vanilla extract Preparation: Boil: Add coconut milk, vanilla extract, and syrup to a medium saucepan and set over medium/high heat. Bring to a boil (or at least 185°F, 85°C), then whisk in agar agar. Continue boiling for 3 minutes, watching to ensure it doesn't spill over. • Cool: Pour mixture into 6 individual serving bowls or ramekins (3.25"Dia. x 1.57"H.). • Set in the fridge to cool until set, about 1hr. • Top with your favorite toppings.
www.loveholisticliving.com
teopathy Rational integration of conventional and alternative healthcare approaches. Now Accepting New Patients Mon-Sat 9-7 Sun 9-6 Daily 10-4 415 Morro Bay Blvd. in Morro Bay
1495 Palm St. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 816 Main Street, Suite D Cambria, CA 93428 (805) 548-8490
Cancer Risk... add these foods to your diet! reduce
by Margaret DeStefano
The veg edge. To cut your cancer risk, try upping veggie intake. Vegetarians were 12 percent less likely to get cancer compared with meat eaters, a study in the British Journal of Cancer finds.
A comprehensive review of thousands of studies on diet, physical activity, and weight conducted for the World Cancer Research Fund and the American Institute for Cancer Research pointed to the benefits of eating mostly foods of plant origin. Foods such as broccoli, berries, and garlic showed some of the strongest links to cancer prevention. They're low in calories and fat and power-packed with phytochemicals and antioxidants that may help reduce your cancer risk. Garlic is the powerhouse of the allium family, but onions, leeks, chives, and scallions might also protect against stomach cancer, some research suggests. Broccoli and its cousins are most protective against cancers of the mouth, esophagus, and stomach,
according to a review of hundreds of clinical studies conducted for the World Cancer Research Fund and the American Institute for Cancer Research.
Strawberries are rich in antioxidants such as vitamin C and ellagic acid. In laboratory tests, ellagic acid seems to have anti-cancer properties that rev up enzymes, which destroy cancercausing substances and slow the growth of tumors. They also contain flavonoids, which suppress an enzyme that damages DNA and has been linked to lung cancer. Other types of berries, all rich in flavonoids, deserve a spot on your plate, too: raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, and cranberries. Blueberries are packed with anthocyanins, which reduce inflammation and are one of the most powerful antioxidants. Berries and cruciferous vegetables are considered to be some of the most powerful protective foods.
a holistic Summer Support
by Sara Garofalo with Love Holistic Living
The summer is a moment to realize and step into your power. The time has come to dance, sing, and celebrate life. Here are six holistic tips to get ready for summer.
Physically
1) Eat cooling foods and stay away from hot spicy foods. Favor foods like cucumber, zucchini, celery, asparagus, leafy greens, watermelon, melon, peaches, berries, cilantro, mint, dill, basmati rice, quinoa, and oats. 2) Stay hydrated 3) Switch up your fitness routine to early morning or lateevening workouts.
Mentally
4) Get outdoors to recharge yourself in nature 5) Begin to unwind. Take a break from your routine.
Spiritually
6) Embrace yourself. Summer is a time of heightened insecurity; more skin shows, the weather is warmer, and crowds are larger. But remember this – the only way to have a “beach body” is to have a body and head to the beach.
Health Tips for a Great Summer
by Hepsharat Amadi, MD
As the world heats up due to global warming, we need to be more mindful about the need for adequate hydration. If you are NOT going to be outside in the hot weather then the minimum amount of hydration needed is one oz. of water for every 2 lbs. of body weight. If you ARE going to be outside in the heat and especially if you are going to be exercising outdoors you will need even more than this. Other beverages can also contribute to hydration but the best is just plain water.
Some people really don't like the taste of just plain water, and if you happen to be one of those people you might be able to improve the appeal of just plain water by adding other things to it. Try a pitcher of water in the fridge with slices of lemon and cucumber and sprigs of mint – refreshing!
Summer is a great time for travel and for getting together with friends. It's also a great time for taking advantage of seasonal fresh produce. All those great summer veggies and fruits
help give us plenty of fiber, vitamins and minerals and thus can help to facilitate weight loss, especially if we eat our veggies before we eat the other components of our meals (known as food sequencing). Eating organic is a plus. Not only is it less toxic but produce grown organically contains more minerals.
In order to keep our immune systems strong while traveling or socializing we want to avoid eating a lot of processed food or going overboard on alcohol. We also want to make sure we are getting adequate sleep at regular intervals.
And last but not least for optimal health we want to relax and reduce stress and the summertime offers us a perfect opportunity to do so!
www.dramadi.com
thinking about Renovating?
Design your renovations to minimize the need for hazardous products. Here are some ways:
1) Provide plenty of natural ventilation which will assist in maintaining good air quality. 2) Choose low or no emission products and materials which will reduce toxic odors around your home.
3) Separate garages from living spaces. This will reduce sources of pollution. 4) Choose hard wearing surfaces that won't need to be replaced. You'll reduce waste and save money.
5) Ensure your cabinetry is tight fitting as well as formaldehyde free. This will minimize crevices and cracks where insects and rodents can take up residence.
Green Skills... the growing demand!
by Margaret De Stefano
The last few months of extreme weather incidents have been a devastating reminder of the damage the climate change crisis is inflicting on communities around the world. As world leaders discuss options at various gatherings, a lot of the discussion is focused on accelerating the shift to a green economy. World Economic Forum finds that skills gaps will continue to be high in the lead up to 2025 as in-demand skills across jobs change.
Critical thinking, problem-solving and self-management skills such as resilience will be among the most in demand. Accordingly, postings for green jobs are growing nearly twice as fast as the number of workers with the skills to fill them. Green skills are essential to the transition towards a green economy, with the estimate of about 24 million jobs worldwide that could be created by the green economy as early as 2030. We are
seeing green jobs span a wide range of industries, from obvious ones like renewables, to more unexpected ones like finance, fashion technologies and even transport. By identifying the skills, capabilities and strategies needed to protect the planet, employers can build a talent pool equipped to help solve the climate crisis. Not only are job seekers with green skills nearly a third more likely to be hired, they are more likely to future-proof their careers, particularly in times of economic uncertainty. In a report last year, the United Nations Environment Program said developing an appropriately skilled workforce for the green economy was critical.
a Big Change in Computers...
by Mike Stairs
In October of 2025, Microsoft will end security updates and support for Windows 10, effectively ending the lives of one billion of the 1.6 billion computers worldwide. Hundreds of millions of computers, updated from as far back as Windows 7 in 2009, remain secure and productive with Windows 10, but only the most recent have the crypto-chip required for Windows 11. Now, after investing in AI, Microsoft is introducing an entirely new breed of computers containing a specialized Neural Processing Unit, NPU, to run an onboard AI that watches and records
everything you do, a feature they call ‘Recall.’ These NPU chips are made by Nvidia, the second largest company in the world, for Microsoft and Apple, the largest and third-largest respectively. Apple will use them in robots. And the billion computers? There’s the landfill, or there’s the private, secure, and capable Linux, which maybe won’t look so scary now.
Are You A
No, it's not a prehistoric creature. Locavores are people who try to choose locally grown or locally produced food that is in season. There are many definitions of "local food," but the concept is based primarily on distance. Many people like to purchase food locally by starting within their own community, then moving out to the region, state, country and so on. This type of food consumption is the basis for Canada's popular 100-mile diet, which promotes buying and eating food that's grown, manufactured or produced within a 100-mile radius of the consumer’s home. Here are some reasons to eat local:
1) It’s good for the environment. Local food doesn’t have to travel as far to arrive on your plate, so it helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contributes to improving our carbon footprint. 2) It benefits the local economy, including supporting local farmers and other producers. 3) It encourages sustainable agriculture, and facilitates tracking the supply chain back to the point of origin to evaluate ecological practices. 4) It mostly ensures that food is safe for consumption. According to the California Department of Pesticide Regulation
Locavore?
by Margaret De Stefano
(CDPR), the vast majority of plants and vegetables grown in California have little to no residual pesticides. 5) It may have a higher nutrient value, as food that is grown and harvested locally is usually given more time to ripen. This does not, however, automatically mean that local food is necessarily more nutritious, as other factors come into play (see below). 6) We might be biased, but we think eating local just tastes better. Have you ever tried any strawberry as good as a Central Coast strawberry?
There are several factors that influence the nutritive value of produce including crop variety, how it's grown, ripeness at harvest, storage, processing and packaging. Its vitamin and mineral content depends on the practices of people all along the line, from the seed to the table, whether or not produce is local or transported from a distance. Produce such as broccoli, green beans, kale, red peppers, tomatoes, apricots and peaches are susceptible to nutrient loss when harvested and transported from longer distances, while those that are heartier such as apples, oranges, grapefruit and carrots keep their nutrients even if they travel long distances.
Vanilla... did you know?
by Margaret De Stefano
Vanilla. Most of us have a bottle of this fragrant extract in our kitchens. Vanilla is the only fruit-bearing member of the orchid family. The flower that produces the vanilla bean lasts only one day. After saffron, vanilla is the most expensive spice in the world. In Europe, vanilla was once used in the production of certain medicines such as nerve stimulants and as an aphrodisiac. Pure vanilla extract contains 13.35 ounces of vanilla beans per gallon during extraction, according to FDA specifications. Vanilla vines need to be supported by a host tree or post. They can grow up to 30-50 feet The United States is world’s largest consumer of this spice, followed by Europe. It is considered as a sacred herb in some cultures and also used to heal and soothe. This natural food item also comes in handy when baking, but did you know that it also has lots of other uses? Here are a few:
Refrigerator: Wipe down the inside with some vanilla to neutralize any smells. To keep it smelling fresh, soak a cotton ball in vanilla and place it in the refrigerator. Air Freshener: Place one to two drops on a light bulb, turn on the light, and the heat will fill the air with the scent of vanilla. Paint: Neutralize the smell of paint by adding one tablespoon of vanilla.
Bug Repellent: Dilute one tablespoon of vanilla in one cup of water. Spray on skin to repel mosquitoes, ticks, and black flies. Relieves Burns: Apply vanilla to the burn to relieve pain. Relieves Toothaches:
Dip a cotton ball in vanilla and apply to affected tooth. Reduces Swelling: Apply directly to a bruise or swollen area. Perfume: Dab a little vanilla behind your ears and on your wrists.
easy
Gazpacho
Recipe: 2 lbs tomatoes / 3 Persian cucumbers peeled / ½ jalapeno or Serrano pepper without seeds for mild with for a bit more zing / 2 cloves of garlic / ¼ red onion peeled / 2-4 tbsp of red wine vinegar / ¼ cup of cilantro / ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil. Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Fill bowl large enough to hold the tomatoes with ice water. Place tomatoes in boiling water for 30-45 seconds. Plunge tomatoes into ice bath and cool. Coarsely chop the cucumbers, garlic, your choice
of pepper, onions. When tomatoes are cool. Slide off tomato skins, core and coarsely chop. Keep the cool water in case you need to thin out the soup. Add half of all ingredients to a blender and puree until smooth. If the mixture is too thick add some of the ice bath water. Strain into clean bowl. Continue this process until all is blended. Sea salt and pepper according to your taste. Chill. Before you serve check the seasonings and texture. Add more water if needed.
Goats at home?
by Sean Murphy
Goats are very useful animals, especially when it comes to clearing weeds and brush. They are not picky eaters and will even devour star thistle and poison oak! A goatherd’s services can save a lot of time and fuel when it comes to clearing an area. It is possible to rent a herd, but remember goats aren’t your average livestock; they actually make great pets too! If raised with the right care and attention they can be very friendly and loyal companions. Also, goats can really help out a compost pile by eating kitchen scraps and supplying manure. Some varieties can also be sheared to make wool. And for the more dedicated goat owner, they can be milked. Goat milk is very tasty and can also be made into cheese or soap.
cool your Canines
by Zoe Allen
Here are some tips for helping to keep critters safe and comfortable all summer long:
Car Heat: Avoid heat exhaustion and DO NOT leave your pet alone in the car during warm weather. During warm weather the inside of your car can reach 120° in a matter of minutes, even if you're parked in the shade with the windows opened a little. Let the Fur Fly: Dogs with extremely thick or long fur should be trimmed during the hot summer months. Regular use of a deshedding tool, can remove tremendous amounts of undercoat hair. Hydrate: Provide plenty of water and shade for your pets so they can stay cool. Be aware that water will vaporize on extremely hot days. Exercise at Dusk and Dawn: Pets need exercise, but on very hot days it is best to limit exercise to early morning or evening
hours. Keep in mind that asphalt and beach sand gets very hot and can burn your pet's paws. Avoid Sunburn: Pets can get sunburned too, and your pet may require sunscreen on his or her nose and ear tips. Especially pets with light-colored noses or lightcolored fur on their ears. Be Aware of
Signs of Heat Exhaustion:
Heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, a staggering gait, vomiting, or a deep red or purple tongue are all signs of possible heat exhaustion. What to do in the event of heat exhaustion: Move the animal into the shade or an air-conditioned area. Apply ice packs or cold towels to their head, neck and chest or immerse them in cool (not cold) water. Let them drink small amounts of cool water or lick ice cubes and consider taking them directly to a veterinarian.
make greener this summer... Traveling
by Margaret De Stefano
As we have all noticed, the act of traveling isn't exactly eco-friendly.
While visiting new places is exciting to experience, it creates a lot of unnecessary waste in the process. For example, you need fuel to power your mode of transportation. Paper and plastic are used in travel documents, hotel keys, etc. Plastic, paper, and foam products are used to package your meals and munchies as you eat on the go. Not to mention those plastic travel-sized product containers collected. The list of waste goes on and on. Here are some travel tips to make your journey greener: Reduce Energy Consumption: We can't decrease the amount of fuel a plane, boat, bus, or train consumes, but we can control some things. When in a city or small town, choose biking or walking instead of taking a vehicle. The bonus? You'll burn calories, giving you a little more room to indulge in culinary delights. Try Eco-Friendly Lodging: When planning where to stay, search and select eco-friendly, hotels, campsites, and
resorts. Some brands have water and energy saving programs. Find places that engage in environmentally friendly practices, or you can simply google eco-lodging in your destination area. Pack the Right Apparel: Pack things that travel well, and are functional in many weather scenarios, and do not need to be washed often. Simply cutting back on washing clothes will decrease water usage. Try investing in apparel that is water resistant, stain resistant, breathable, and will stay clean and fresh longer than other materials. Bring your own: The number of plastic bottles and bags you use when you are away from home can quickly add up. Practice sustainability everywhere you go by bringing your own. For example: One insulated bottle for hot beverages. A reusable bottle for water or cold beverages. Bottles for body and beauty products. Convenient travel-size and free trial-size create unnecessary waste, so buy reusable, empty travel sized bottles and refill them for each trip.
a message from the south county Chambers of Commerce
As the summer approaches, South SLO County, along with its neighboring towns— Pismo Beach, Arroyo Grande, Nipomo, Grover Beach, and Avila Beach—becomes a vibrant hub for visitors and locals alike. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your visit from May to September 2024.
Pismo Beach: Known for its stunning beaches and classic pier, Pismo Beach is a must-see during your visit. Enjoy a variety of water activities such as surfing, paddle boarding, and fishing. Don't miss the PB Classic Car Show in June and Fireworks Festivities in July. Arroyo Grande: This charming town offers a delightful mix of historic attractions and modern conveniences. The weekly Summer Concert Series is a Sunday highlight from July to September. Celebrating the region’s rich agricultural heritage is the Harvest Festival and Parade, where you can enjoy food, games, arts and crafts booths, and local entertainment. Nipomo: For a taste of local history and natural beauty, Nipomo is the place to be. The Nipomo Recreation Association presents Concerts in the Park beginning on June 26th and every Wednesday through August. Grover Beach: Ideal for family fun, Grover Beach provides expansive sandy beaches perfect for bonfires and picnics. The Stone Soup Music Festival in August brings together music, food, and arts and crafts, drawing crowds from across the region. Avila Beach: Escape to Avila Beach for its warm, sheltered waters and the serene ambiance. The Avila Beach Farmers' Market, held every Friday evening from May through September, is a lovely spot to sample local produce and artisan goods.
Throughout these towns, you'll find an assortment of activities and events to fill your summer days. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a peaceful day by the sea, South SLO County offers something for everyone. Enjoy your summer exploring this delightful part of the Central Coast! For more information, please feel free to reach out at (805) 489-1488 or via email at office@southcountychambers.com
an award winning Shopping experience!
Take a trip to the California Fresh grocery store in Pismo Beach and you’ll see why so many Grocer awards line the walls. As you begin your tour, you’ll notice a wide selection of freshly prepared hot or cold deli offerings, a sushi bar, bakery department, full service butcher shop, full selection of health and fitness products (including an in-house consultant to help answer any questions), fresh wild caught seafood, bulk bins and a lot more. While there, you can also choose from a wide variety of fresh local produce. Like fresh
by Kathleen Stout, M.A.
roasted coffee? Select your favorite at the in-house coffee bar. If you’re in the mood for a freshly squeezed organic juice, the juice bar has just what you need. Enjoy lunch at one of their restaurant-style booths, offering a comfortable spot to indulge in the many hot or cold choices available at the deli. Stop by any one of their store locations in Pismo Beach, San Luis Obispo, or El Rancho Marketplace in Solvang and enjoy an award winning shopping experience.
Coffee and Organic Juice Bar, Deli and Bakery Department, and Full Service Butcher Shop plus Fresh Wild Caught Seafood
