Solstice Green Directory Fall 2021 Issue

Free

Fall 2021

Helping the Homeless...pg 10 Garden with a Walipini...pg 25 Vegan Pumpkin Ice Cream...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

Can we all get along? ~ Rodney King May 1st, 1992

willing

Warriors...

Climate change continues to disrupt the weather patterns of our planet and affect the quality of living for all life on Earth.

Environmental sustainability efforts are at an all-time high.

With better science and research being performed each year, environmental statistics are becoming less the subject of skeptical criticism, and more the focus on the dangers we all face, and the benefits of making some necessary changes to our lifestyle.

While people can argue back and forth on the politics of going green or climate change until we’re all blue in the face, those who are actually making an effort to move towards sustainable living are the true environmental warriors of the day.

Please share your thoughts with us. We are all in this together!

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.

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Solstice Green Directory - Fall 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 Fall 2021

DIRECTORY 4 FEATURES Your Own Certified Garden Habitat 9 Helping the Homeless 10 Healthier Pumpkin Pie 12 Reasons for a Plant-based Diet 14 Pumpkins and Squash! 15 Words... Choose Them Carefully 18 Antioxidants Help You Look Younger 20 Gas Saving Tips 24 Garden All Year Long with a Walipini 25 Green Tea and Weight Loss 26 SLO County Wildlife E.R. 27 Compost as Much as Possible 28 Vegan Pumpkin Ice Cream 29

Directory ASTROLOGY SLO Astrologers Contact at SLOAstrologers@aol.com On-going classes at the Gala Center, Palm St., SLO Please see display ad on page 16

BUILDING – ENERGY CONSULTANTS Carstairs Energy • (805) 904-9048 Residential & Commercial Title 24 Energy Compliance title24@yahoo.com www.carstairsenergy.com Please see display ad on page 23

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 21

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 4

Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2021

CLEANING Coastline Cleaning Company (805) 400-5433 Commercial • General Office • Post Construction • Residential coastlinecleaning@ymail.com 3765 S. Higuera St., #140, SLO Please see display ad on page 17

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

Please see display ad on page 15

ECO-FRIENDLY PEST CONTROL The Pest Posse Too (805) 550-2959 Eco-friendly chemicals used to control pests. thepestpossetoo.com Please see display ad on page 19

EMOTIONAL FREEDOM TECHNIQUES Mia Simmons, Cert. 1, ADV, Level 3 (805) 528-7586 Certified, Advanced, Level 3 EFT Practitioner Meridian tapping technique www.miasimmons.com Please see display ad on page 6

ENERGY EFFICIENCY Carstairs Energy • (805) 904-9048 Residential & Commercial Title 24 Energy Compliance title24@yahoo.com www.carstairsenergy.com Please see display ad on page 23

ENERGY WORK/ENERGY MEDICINE Mia Simmons, Cert. 1, ADV, Level 3 (805) 528-7586 Certified, Advanced, Level 3 EFT Practitioner Meridian tapping technique www.miasimmons.com Please see display ad on page 6

DIRECTORY

CUISINE www.CasaFestiva.com “Exploring the culture of cuisine!”

Sustainability • Fun • Food & Wine

ENERGY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS 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

GREEN FLOORING Matt Clark Tile & Stone (805) 543-7600 181 Tank Farm Rd. Ste. 140, SLO www.mattclarktile.com We carry beautiful environmentally friendly products Please see display ad on page 21

Like Us On Facebook!

facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory

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.

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

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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 17

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 23

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

@solsticegreen

Like Us On Facebook!

facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory 6

JANITORIAL Coastline Cleaning Company (805) 400-5433 Commercial • General Office • Post Construction • Residential coastlinecleaning@ymail.com 3765 S. Higuera St., #140, SLO

Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2021

JUICE BAR California Fresh Coffee, Organics Juice Bar, Deli, Bakery, Fresh Seafood and Meat Department San Luis Obispo, CA (805) 250-1425 71 E. Foothill Blvd.

Hours: 6:00am – 10:00pm Pismo Beach, CA (805) 295-7162 555 Five Cities Dr. Hours: 6:00am – 10:00pm Solvang, CA (805) 688-4300 El Ranch Marketplace 2886 Mission Dr. Hours: 6:00am – 10:00pmc californiafreshmarket.com Please see display ad on inside back cover

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

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

805.473.5064

Los Osos Cares • (805) 592-2701 We partner with other groups to help community members find resources and services.

Open Tues, Wed & Thurs - 1-3pm Sunnyside School 800 Manzanita Dr. Room 18 in Los Osos losososcares.com

Please see display ad on page xx

Sierra Club-Santa Lucia Chapter (805) 543-8717 547-B Marsh St • San Luis Obispo santalucia.sierraclub.org ORGANIC CAFE Sunshine Health Foods/Shine Café (805) 772-7873 Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay

OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE Kathryn A. Perry, D.O. (805) 548-8490 1495 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 816 Main Street, Suite D Cambria, CA 93428

Please see display ad on page xx

PEST CONTROL The Pest Posse Too (805) 550-2959 Eco-friendly chemicals used to control pests. thepestpossetoo.com Please see display ad on page 19

Pacific Wildlife Care (805) 543-WILD (9453) On Call 365 Days per Year PacificWildlifeCare.org

Please see display ad on page xx

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

DIRECTORY

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

PHYSICIAN Kathryn A. Perry, D.O. (805) 548-8490 1495 Palm Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 816 Main Street, Suite D Cambria, CA 93428

Please see display ad on page 19

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 page 31

KCBX FM Public Radio (805) 549-8855 Symphonies, jazz, daily news & transforming stories Streaming live on the Internet at www.KCBX.org Please see display ad on page 30

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

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DIRECTORY

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

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 23

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 8

Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2021

SUPERMARKET/ORGANIC FOODS California Fresh Coffee, Organics Juice Bar, Deli, Bakery, Fresh Seafood and Meat Department San Luis Obispo, CA (805) 250-1425 71 E. Foothill Blvd.

Hours: 6:00am – 10:00pm Pismo Beach, CA (805) 295-7162 555 Five Cities Dr. Hours: 6:00am – 10:00pm Solvang, CA (805) 688-4300 El Ranch Marketplace 2886 Mission Dr. Hours: 6:00am – 10:00pmc californiafreshmarket.com Please see display ad on inside back cover

SUSTAINABLE FOOD & WINE www.CasaFestiva.com “Exploring the culture of cuisine!”

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

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 21

WILDLIFE RESCUE Pacific Wildlife Care (805) 543-WILD (9453) On Call 365 Days per Year PacificWildlifeCare.org

Please see display ad on page 27

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

your own certified

Backyard Habitat

by Margaret DeStefano

The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) sponsors a program that helps anyone to turn their yard, balcony garden, office landscape, or schoolyard into a certified wildlife habitat, which can help increase your area’s bioshed (the relationship between humanity and wildlife). The process is quick and easy and requires only a $20 donation to NWF educational programs aimed at addressing the issues leading to declining habitat for wildlife nationwide. Kids love watching the critters, including butterflies, hummingbirds, wild turkeys, and even deer, that come calling.

But, even if your local fauna consists of only squirrels and sparrows, you can still qualify for certification. As the NWF website states: Every habitat garden is a step toward replenishing resources for wildlife such as bees, butterflies, birds, and amphibians, both locally and along migratory corridors. By adding pollinator-friendly and monarch-friendly plants when you certify, your garden also counts toward the Million Pollinator Garden Challenge, a nationwide call to action to preserve and create gardens and landscapes that help revive the health of bees, butterflies, birds, bats and other pollinators across America. http://millionpollinatorgardens.org

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

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We’ve got our supplies covered.

Monetary donations are always welcome, but what we really need are more volunteers.

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Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2021

Helping the Homeless... one shower at a time

by Diane Parnell

The goal for Shower the People was specific: Provide free showers to SLO’s homeless population at an affordable cost. The biggest hurdle in meeting that goal was met in 2018 when a generous grant from Presbyterian Women USA enabled the organization to purchase a three-unit mobile shower.

“We wanted to keep it simple and narrowly focused,” says Gary Petersen, one of the Operations Supervisors for Shower the People, a local interfaith mobile shower program.

“Homelessness is a very broad problem. We wanted to work on just one small piece of it.”

Since its inception, Shower the People has done its piece very well. Each guest who uses the mobile shower service is provided a T-shirt, toiletries, underwear and socks. Supplies are purchased directly in bulk from manufacturers via donations from the collective efforts of local churches.

Arroyo Grande Community Hospital cleans and replenishes all towels at no cost, and forty volunteers rotate shifts to cover the four days a week of services the mobile unit provides.

These combined efforts allow the group to offer 15-minute showers at a cost of only $10 start-to-finish.

There is a common belief that all homeless people live on the street but many who utilize these services live in their cars. They have jobs but don’t want their employers to know they are homeless, so they depend on Shower the People, often showing up during their lunch breaks to get their weekly shower.

“The most gratifying thing is to see the change in the individual after the shower,” Petersen says. “They come out smiling, and saying how good it feels to be clean.”

When asked what help they could use from the community, Petersen did not hesitate to answer. “We’ve got our supplies covered. Monetary donations are always welcome, but what we really need are more volunteers.”

Sign up today to help this worthy cause by visiting: www.showerthepeopleslo.org

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

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healthier Pumpkin Pie According to the USDA’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans, we should all be eating 2 cups of orange veggies each week.

Pumpkin is a healthy fruit, but when it comes to pumpkin pie, mountains of sugar from canned pumpkin pie filling and spoonfuls of sugary toppings can send calories through the roof. Topped with whipped cream or a la mode, a slice can weigh in at close to 500 calories. Use gingersnap cookies for a lighter crust made without partially hydrogenated oils. Let the sweetness of the pumpkin take over. Steer clear of sugary or heavily-sweetened pumpkin pie filling. The canned pumpkin puree should have one ingredient; add your own spices from there. Serve with one heaping spoon of freshly made whipped cream and fresh fruit like apples, oranges and pears.

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Easy Vegan Pumpkin Pie Recipe: 2 cups cooked pumpkin which has been drained (or canned) / 1 cup almond milk / ½ cup brown sugar (or other sweetener) / ¼ cup cornstarch / 1 tbs. blackstrap molasses / 1 tsp. ground cinnamon / 1 tsp. vanilla / ½ tsp. ground ginger, nutmeg and sea salt / ¼ tsp. ground allspice.

Blend all ingredients in a blender. Pour into a vegan graham cracker crust (or your choice) and bake at 350° for 60 minutes. Cool on a rack, then refrigerate overnight.

message from the south county

Chambers of Commerce

by Jocelyn Brennan, President/CEO

Local community members and business leaders are invited to apply for Class III of Leadership South County, a ninemonth, community-focused, leadership development program dedicated to inspiring, educating, and empowering tomorrow’s business and community leaders. The program from South County Chambers of Commerce includes a three-day, twonight retreat as well as nine once-a-month day sessions. Learn about business & manufacturing, arts & education, recreation & tourism, housing, wine & agriculture, environmental sustainability, nonprofit organizations, government, and regional cooperation. Other topics include purpose, vision & values; goal setting & execution; effective communication; performance management; inclusion & diversity; leading change; appreciation & celebration; increasing productivity and more. Apply at southcountychambers.com. Click on the “Join Us” tab at the top of the page and choose “Leadership South County.”

Reach over

30,000 Readers for only $ 109

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

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good reasons to shift to a

Plant-based

Diet There are many advantages to eating a plant-based diet, both for the health of the planet and also for one's individual health. More people shifting to a plant-based diet would definitely reduce our carbon footprint.

A United Nations report said that raising animals for food generates more greenhouse gases than all the cars and trucks in the world combined!

Shifting away from meat consumption would also save a lot of water. Different estimates of the amount of water that it takes to produce a kilogram of beef vary from 13,000 liters up to 100,000 liters.

By way of comparison, the amount of

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by Dr. Hepsharat Amadi

water it takes to produce a kilogram of wheat is somewhere between 1,0002,000 liters.

On a topical note, the British Medical Journal did a study in which they found that those eating a plant-based diet had a 73% lower risk of more severe Covid symptoms than those who ate meat, while pescatarians (plant-based, with the addition of fish) had a 59% lower risk. And that is not even taking into account lower risk to those eating a plant-based diet of heart attacks, and various types of cancer as well as often helping with weight loss. www.dramadi.com

spice up your fall with

Pumpkins and Squash!

by Katy Budge

It’s that time of year for pumpkin everything! But even if you’ve had enough of pumpkin spice, don’t overlook pumpkins and other squash for flavorful, healthy eating.

These ubiquitous autumn orbs have significant amounts of Vitamins A, C and E, plus potassium. And, they’re considered “nutrient dense” – meaning they pack a lot of nutritional bang for very little caloric buck.

In addition, as with most colorful fruits and vegetables, pumpkins and their ilk (technically fruits, by the way, because of the seeds) contain high amounts of beta carotene. This antioxidant is purported to have several health benefits, including reducing certain cancer risks, guarding against heart disease, and decreasing the chance of developing macular degeneration.

Pumpkins and squash are also very easy to incorporate into cooking. Bake or roast, then mash them with herbs and butter for a simple side dish, purée with some homemade broth for a flavorful fall soup, and use them to up the health ante in cookies and quick breads.

Of course, pumpkin pie is on many an autumn menu, but don’t count on using the innards of those big jacko-lanterns. Definitely rinse and clean the seeds and roast them with some olive oil and salt, but the actual flesh of that type of pumpkin is watery and not very flavorful. Go for a denser, sweeter variety such as the aptly named sugar pumpkin, Kabocha, Delicata, Butternut, or Hubbard. In fact, that can of pumpkin purée you’re buying for pie is typically a mixture of these sweeter varieties, not just plain ol’ pumpkin!

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

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it's autumn... time for

Pumpkin Soup!

Recipe: 2 tablespoons butter (or coconut oil) / 2 carrots, peeled and coarsely chopped / 1 stalk celery, rinsed and coarsely chopped / ¾ cup chopped onion / ¼ tsp. chopped chili pepper (optional) / 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced / 2 qts. vegetable broth / 4 cups mashed pumpkin / ½ cup apple cider/ 1 green apple, peeled, cored, and chopped / 2 teaspoons chopped fresh ginger / 1½ teaspoons dried sage / ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon / ⅛ tsp. ground allspice / sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste / 1 tsp. grated lemon peel. In a 5 to 6 qt. pan over high heat, melt butter. Add carrots, chili pepper, celery, onion, and garlic; stir often until onion is tender, about 8 minutes. Add broth, mashed pumpkin, apple cider, apple, ginger, sage, cinnamon, and allspice; cover and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes. Whirl soup, a portion at a time, in a blender (holding lid down with a towel) until pureed and pour into a bowl. Return all soup to pan and stir often over high heat until hot. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Learn Astrology...

Meeting Every 1st Wednesday of the Month 6:00-7:30pm GALA Center, located at 1060 Palm St., San Luis Obispo

Newcomers Welcomed! sloastrologers@aol.com

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Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2021

Oh, Olive Oil! Studies have shown that olive oil is a good choice to include in your diet. In addition to a great taste, it is made up of monounsaturated fats, which have been linked to reducing LDL cholesterol. It also contains a number of health promoting compounds like iron, phyosterols (cholesterol-like compounds found in plants), vitamin K, and polyphenols (antioxidant compounds found in fruits, vegetables and some nuts). Oh, and did we say it’s delicious too?

All types of olive oil contain the same amount of fat so choose whatever taste best to you.

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 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

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Words

choose them carefully...

by Margaret DeStefano

Words. How often do we use them and not pay attention to their possible consequences? Words have the power to destroy and crush a dream, diminish self-worth, betray trust or bring into existence the magic that warms people's hearts and unites opposing forces. When you talk about all that doesn't work in your life and elaborate on what you dislike, you feed and bring into your life more of what you despise. What you focus on expands. Think about how you use words. If you feel that you would like to use them in a more positive way then here are positive ways to change the way you communicate. They may change your reality. 1) Speak with positive words. Express what you desire instead of what you don't like, for example: "Would you be willing to help me with..." instead of "I

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Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2021

always have to do everything and no one ever helps me." 2) Watch your "self talk." Some times negative thoughts creep into our mind. Be aware of this behavior and when you find yourself caught in this cycle, break it!

Replace it with a positive statement.

3) Only "complain" about things when you want to discover your own answer or are actively seeking advice from another to find a positive solution. Confirm your intent before you complain. Think before you speak.

Words are powerful, choose them wisely.

Almond Butter

Quick Fact!

Eight out every 10 almonds produced in the world comes from California. The climate is favorable to the sensitivity of almond trees in both temperature and pollination.

cookies!

Recipe: 3 cups whole wheat pastry flour / ½ tsp. sea salt / 1 lb. almond butter (unsalted, smooth) / ⅔ cup coconut oil / ¾ cup maple syrup / 1 tsp. vanilla. Preheat oven to 350˚F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.

Sift flour into mixing bowl, then add sea salt. Cream almond butter, oil, maple syrup, and vanilla together in a separate bowl, using a whisk. Cream until smooth. Add flour to mixture and stir to fully combine. Form dough into walnut-sized balls and press down.

If dough does not form easily when rolled, add a bit more flour. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown on undersides of cookies. Allow to cool on baking sheets for 10 minutes, then transfer to cooling rack until cooled. Serving: 30 cookies.

SERVICES:

We use eco-friendly materials that are family and pet friendly.

Alternate monthly maintenance Spiders • Mosquitoes • Ants Wasps • Fleas • Ticks

Culley Christensen Owner/Operator

805-550-2959 • thepestposse2.com

Kathryn A. Perry, DO

Traditional Osteopathy Rational integration of conventional and alternative healthcare approaches.

1495 Palm St.

San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

816 Main Street, Suite D Cambria, CA 93428

(805) 548-8490

Traditional Osteopathic Practice

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

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

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Antioxidants help you look younger!

by Margaret DeStefano We all want to look younger. But sometimes we forget about the most important areas.

The skin is the largest organ in the human body and it is exposed to oxidization the most, which means your skin gets damaged just by going through your daily routine.

Foods that are rich in antioxidants can help fight the damage that oxidative stress has done to your skin. Even though you might get a moisturizer that is allegedly rich in anti-oxidants and can help revitalize your skin, when it comes to antioxidants the best job starts on the inside. Instead of spending a huge amount of money on an expensive moisturizer, start eating foods that will get your skin back on track and reduce any signs of aging. Here's an idea for keeping skin younger looking longer. Try eating lots of blueberries, grapes, strawberries, blackberries, red kidney beans, spinach, and kale.

Your skin will thank you for it!

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Zucchini Potato Pancakes Recipe: 2 cups peeled and grated potatoes (or lightly boiled and chopped) / 2 cups of grated zucchini / ¼ cup onion, diced / 3 cloves garlic, chopped / 2 tablespoons olive oil / 2 eggs (optional egg replacer) / ½ teaspoon baking powder / ⅓ cup flour (optional gluten free) / ½ teaspoon sea salt / ¼ teaspoon pepper /coconut oil for frying. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Mix well. In a skillet, heat coconut oil over medium-high heat.

Drop by tablespoonfuls into oil. Cook about 3 minutes per side or until golden brown, turning once. Drain on paper towels.

Carmen Green

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

cgreenrealestate.com • 805.441.7370

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

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Energy

Saving Tips for Fall!

Sponsored by

Carstairs Energy

(805) 904-9048 Autumn brings golden leaves and a new chill in the air. It’s time to get ready for holidays and it’s time to get your home 2238 Bayview Heights Drive Suite E ready for the cooler weather. If you have energy efficiency on LOS OSOS, CA 93402 your mind as fall rolls around, use these tips to make sure title24@yahoo.com you’re set up to save. www.carstairsenergy.com

• Install a programmable thermostat and keep it set at or below 68 degrees • Check for cracks, leaks, and drafts • Install energy efficient appliances • Close that flue • Get a heating tune-up • Have your duct work checked for leaks • Change your return air filters • Lower your dishwasher and washing machine temperatures • Use smart power strips • Upgrade your HVAC system • Let light and heat from windows inside. Let the sun do some of the heating for your home www.carstairsenergy.com

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A lo ove

• • • • •

Five...

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

or more!

Researchers at Loma Linda University found that men who drank five or more 8-ounce glasses of water a day were 54 percent less likely to suffer a fatal heart attack than those who drank two or fewer.

Appropriate items recycled.

Food stuff collected and taken to compost facility.

Contact us for more information:

805.489.9696 Family Membership Makes a Great Gift!

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(805) 595-7600 • AvilaBayClub.com

6699 Bay Laurel Place, Avila Beach, CA

A local full service energy consulting firm with over a decade of experience specializing in:

Carstairs Energy

(805) 904-9048 2238 Bayview Heights Drive Suite E LOS OSOS, CA 93402 title24@yahoo.com www.carstairsenergy.com

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HERS I Ratings (Diagnostic Testing) HERS II Ratings ( Whole-House Energy Audits) Title 24 Energy Compliance Documentation ACCA Manual J, D, and S Reports & HVAC Design PV Solar Consulting (NSHP Program)

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23

Gas Saving Tips

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

Maintain your car and keep it tuned up. Poorly running vehicles use more gas. Use the air conditioner sparingly because it lowers your gas mileage by up to 20 percent. On local roads, keep cool by opening the windows, but at speeds 40 miles per hour or faster, roll them up to prevent extra wind resistance, which also uses more gas. Check the air pressure of your tires regularly. Over and under inflated tires can dramatically reduce your fuel efficiency, so always maintain the proper air pressure, according to the guidelines listed on your car manual. In addition, maintain the alignment of the tires. Carpool or vanpool with others to share the cost of commuting if you can. Another suggestion, if you are able, is to bike, walk, or take the bus. Lower your speed. Gas usage increases about 10 percent between 55 and 65 miles per hour (MPH), and 17 percent between 55 and 70 MPH. Using the cruise control on the highway helps you maintain a constant speed and in most cases will save gas. However, speeding, rapid acceleration, and rapid braking can decrease your mileage potential.

Avoid having heavy items in your cargo or storage areas. An extra 100 pounds in your vehicle could reduce your MPH by up to 2%.

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Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2021

garden all year long with a

Walipini

by Margaret DeStefano

Glass greenhouses can be pretty expensive to build and difficult to maintain throughout the winter. Even here on the Central Coast. If you have the time and space (and older kids willing to do a little hard work) a walipini is an economical and effective alternative to a glass greenhouse.

Walipini is a word for “place of warmth”

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in the language of indigenous peoples of the Andes mountains, and it can really live up to it's name. It’s essentially an underground greenhouse that gets its heat naturally from geothermal regulation (the temperature of the earth) and thermal mass collection (the sun heating the earthen walls). If you think it's an option there is plenty of information online to help set it up.

Diagram of early "sun-pit" concept

p

D.I.Y. Walipini in progress

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25

drinking

Green Tea may help with

Weight Loss

A study published in the Nutrition Journal found that green tea may be more effective at suppressing appetite than plain water.

In addition, research shows that green tea gives your metabolism a slight lift. Just don't add sugar because it'll counteract that calorie-burning advantage. Enjoy a cup of hot or iced green tea with breakfast, lunch, and dinner to maximize your weight-loss efforts. Green Tea Pound Cake Recipe: 2 large eggs (or egg substitute) / 1 cup whole wheat flour/ ¼ tsp sea salt / ½ cup brown sugar / ½ cup reduced fat butter (or non-dairy) / 1 Tbsp matcha (green tea powder) 1½ tsp baking powder.

Cream butter and add sugar. Mix well. Gradually add beaten eggs and stir well. Sift flour, baking powder, and green tea powder together and add the flour to the egg mixture. Pour into buttered loaf pan. Bake in preheated 350° oven for 30– 40 minutes.

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Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2021

SLO county

Wildlife E.R.

by Pamela Hartmann

Pacific Wildlife Care in Morro Bay would make for a terrific primetime TV hospital series, full of drama, heartache, medical mysteries, surprises, and humor.

Veterinarian Shannon Riggs performs surgeries. Staff and volunteers provide day-to-day care in the clinic. Home rehabilitators care for opossums, bunnies, songbirds, bats. The Education Team gives presentations to the public.

Hotline volunteers counsel people on dealing with wildlife. Everyone’s goal is the same: returning healthy wildlife to the wild. Almost 3,000 patients arrive annually, brought by members of the public or the Rescue/Transport Team.

These animals have been hit by cars, poisoned, shot, orphaned, oiled, or caught by cats, dogs, fishing line, and barbed wire. At any given time, patients fill the Intake Area, Baby Bird Room, Isolation Room, Seabird Room, outside aviaries, mammal caging, and pools.

Every animal – and every human caring for them – has a story. Hollywood, are you listening?

Contact Pacific Wildlife Care 7 days a week at 805-543-WILD (9453).

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

27

Compost as much as possible this

Fall!

Instead of putting your leaves, branches, and weeds into plastic bags only to be picked up by trash collectors, consider turning this lawn “waste” into nutrient-rich soil ready for your spring garden!

Collecting compost is quite easy and can save money on soil and fertilizer when it comes time to start your garden after the cold season.

Almost everything in your yard is compostable. That includes grass and plant clippings, leaves, dead or brown weeds, with the exception of weeds that have seeds or pernicious weeds (i.e. ivy) that can withstand composting. Mix in some of your kitchen waste as well – fruit and vegetable peels, teabags, and coffee grinds – to increase your yield.

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Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2021

vegan

Pumpkin

ice cream Recipe: Two 13 oz. cans of coconut milk / 1½ tsp cornstarch / 1 cup roasted pumpkin puree, canned or fresh / ½ cup + 2 tbsp. maple syrup / 1 tbsp. vanilla / 1 tsp. cinnamon / dash of nutmeg / ½ tsp. sea salt. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with ¼ cup of the coconut milk, until the cornstarch is dissolved.

Set aside. In a medium size saucepan, whisk together the remaining coconut milk, pumpkin, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, salt and nutmeg. Heat over medium heat and continue whisking until the mixture starts to bubble. Reduce the heat to low and slowly whisk in the cornstarch mixture. Continue to simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and chill the mixture completely. Pour liquid into your ice cream machine bowl, and churn for 30 minutes, or according to manufacturer's instructions. Serve immediately.

29

Sweet Potato

Fries...

Despite their sweet taste, sweet potatoes have only a few more calories than white potatoes. A three and a half ounce serving of baked sweet potato contains three times the recommended daily amount of beta carotene (half the RDA for vitamin C and just 100 calories).

Baked Sweet Potato Fries: 1 sweet potato, washed and cut into strips / 2 tbsp olive oil / 2 tbsp dried herbs (parsley, rosemary, or thyme) / 1 tsp sea salt / ½ tsp black pepper.

Preheat oven at 400°F. On a large baking sheet, toss with olive oil, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Arrange in a single layer and make sure to flip the fries over two or three times to brown evenly. Bake for about 3540 min., or until golden brown, and crisp

 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

30

Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2021

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

31

baked

Acorn Squash slices

Recipe: 2 medium acorn squash (1½ lbs each) / ½ teaspoon salt / ¾ cup maple syrup / 2 tablespoons butter, melted / ⅓ cup chopped pecans (optional) Cut squash in half lengthwise; remove and discard seeds and membrane. Cut each half widthwise into ½ inch slices; discard ends. Place slices in a greased 13x9 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with salt. Combine syrup and butter; pour over squash.

Sprinkle with pecans if desired. Cover and bake at 350° for 40-45 minutes or until tender. Yield: 6 servings.

easy

French Onion soup!

Recipe: 6 large yellow onions, sliced thin / 3 cloves garlic, minced / ¼ cup teriyaki sauce / 2 tbsp sesame oil / 8 cups vegetable stock / toasted french bread slices / 2 cups swiss or gruyere cheese, grated (or dairy free cheese). In a large soup pot, briefly saute the onions and garlic in the sesame oil. Add teriyaki sauce and vegetable stock. Bring to a boil. Cook for 30 minutes on low heat, stirring slowly. Pour soup into oven-safe bowls and top with croutons and grated cheese. Broil in the oven for five minutes, or until cheese is melted and beginning to brown.

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Solstice Green Directory - Fall 2021

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

555 Five Cities Dr • Pismo Beach, CA • (805) 295-7162 771 E. Foothill Blvd • San Luis Obispo, CA • (805) 250-1425 2886 Mission Dr • Solvang, CA • (805) 688- 4300 Open Daily 6am –10pm • www.CaliforniaFreshMarket.com

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