At SLO Veg, we’re more than just a produce delivery service. We’re a family-owned bridge between you and the local farmers who nurture the land. Every harvest box is a testament to our commitment to sustainability, community support, and the freshest produce delivered directly to your doorstep. Thank you for the 15 years of business. We couldn’t do it without you!
I cannot endure to waste anything as precious as autumn sunshine by staying in the house.
~ Nathaniel Hawthorne
as bob dylan says,
Sometimes the ideas we grew up with turn out to be just plain wrong, and we need to make some changes in our thinking. For example, many of us grew up sun worshipers, sunbathing at every opportunity, always wanting to look tan, believing that basking in the sun’s rays was healthy. Wearing sun screen and avoiding too much exposure is now accepted as wise.
In the past, things we didn't think mattered are now obviously quite important. We regarded fuel as a cheap and abundant commodity, but it turns out that fossil fuels are actually finite, and harmful to our environment. There is a misconception that going green is an all-or-nothing endeavor, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Small acts can have big impacts. You might be surprised by the difference you can make by simply adjusting your thermostat by a few degrees or opting for a plant-based meal instead of meat once a week. Start out with easy swaps and build on those successes as you go, and remember that it’s all about progress, not perfection.
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.
Advertising
Tech
Bookkeeping Diane
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
ARTS/APPAREL
Coastal Vibes (805) 270-4006
Electric bike rental and sales, local art, Custom-t-shirts and more www.coastalvibes805.com
Please see display ad on page 19
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
SLO Review
Your SLO County link to arts & culture SLOReview.org
Please see display ad on page 13
ASTROLOGY
Lori Waters, Consulting Astrologer
805-270-3192
NGGR-PAA Level III Equivalent MamaLoveshine@runbox.com MamaLoveshine.com
SLO Astrologers
Contact at SLOAstrologers@aol.com
Please see display ad on page 30
AYURVEDIC
Sara Garofalo LOVE HOLISTIC LIVING
Holistic Nutrition/Energy Healing/Trauma Release
www.loveholisticliving.com email: loveholisticlivingslo@gmail.com
CAFÉ
Scorpion Bay Coffee (805) 295-6998
Amazing coffee for the surfing community
610 Dolliver St., Pismo Beach, CA
Please see display ad on page 19
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 19
Life Elements (805) 460-4102
Handcrafted CBD Topicals
7425 El Camino Real, Ste. O, Atascadero www.lifeelements.com
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 19
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 11
Scorpion Bay Coffee (805) 295-6998
Amazing coffee for the surfing community
610 Dolliver St., Pismo Beach, CA
Please see display ad on page 19
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 25
www.CasaFestiva.com
“Exploring the culture of cuisine!”
Sustainability • Fun • Food & Wine
Please see display ad on page 9
Coastal Vibes (805) 270-4006
Electric bike rental and sales, local art, Custom-t-shirts and more www.coastalvibes805.com
Please see display ad on page 19
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 15
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
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 15
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 19
SLO Veg Local Harvest Delivery (805) 709 -2780
Fresh and local produce boxes delivered to your home or business. www.sloveg.com
Please see display ad on inside front cover
/ FITNESS
Avila Bay Athletic Club & Spa (805) 595-7600
Tropical paradise, tennis, ozone pools, classes incl. yoga, cafe & catering, conf. rooms, special events
6699 Bay Laurel Place, Avila Beach avilabayclub.com
Please see display ad on page 13
Peggy Jern
“To Health!” (805) 801-1951
Teaching Pilates in Los Osos Classes, Privates, and Zoom
Please see display ad on page 13
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 19
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 11
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 19
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
Pacific Wildlife Care (805) 543-WILD (9453) On Call 365 Days per Year
PacificWildlifeCare.org
Your SLO County link to arts & culture SLOReview.org
Please see display ad on page 13
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 19
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
Peggy Jern “To Health!” (805) 801-1951
Teaching Pilates in Los Osos Classes, Privates, and Zoom
Please see display ad on page 13
SLO Veg Local Harvest Delivery (805) 709 -2780
Fresh and local produce boxes delivered to your home or business. www.sloveg.com
Please see display ad on inside front cover
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 29
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 23
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 19
SKIN & BODY CARE
Life Elements (805) 460-4102
Natural products designed to bring incredible results to your body and skin. 7425 El Camino Real, Ste. O, Atascadero www.lifeelements.com
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
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 Place, Avila Beach
avilabayclub.com
Please see display ad on page 13
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
www.CasaFestiva.com
“Exploring the culture of cuisine!”
Sustainability • Fun • Food & Wine
Please see display ad on page 9
Sara Garofalo LOVE HOLISTIC LIVING
Holistic Nutrition/Energy Healing/Trauma
Release www.loveholisticliving.com loveholisticlivingslo@gmail.com
Ingredients: 3 cups whole wheat flour pastry flour (gluten free optional) / ½ tsp. sea salt / 1 lb. almond butter (unsalted, smooth) / ⅔ cup coconut oil / ¾ cup maple syrup / 1 tsp. vanilla. Preheat oven to 350ºF. 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, larger bowl, using a whisk. Cream until smooth. Add flour to almond butter mixture and stir to fully combine flour. Form dough into walnut-sized balls and press down, then mark with a fork. 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 completely cooled. Serving: 30 cookies.
by Katy Budge
Cabbage is one of the healthiest foods around, and one of the most versatile. It’s also one of the easiest to work into refreshing seasonal grill menus, especially with some simple international rifts on coleslaw.
As a member of the cruciferous family of veggies, cabbage offers all the benefits of this “super group” of foods (which also includes kale, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts). Studies have indicted that these foods may lower the risk of cancer and prevent cardiovascular disease, plus they offer a wallop of vitamins in a low-calorie package.
When thinking about coleslaw, rethink the creamy dressing approach – not such a good choice for serving in hot temperatures anyway. Instead, go for fast, from-scratch vinaigrettes that match up flavor-wise with your main courses. Just put a couple tablespoons of both oil and vinegar in a serving bowl with some seasonings and whisk them together,
then toss in your chopped cabbage and other ingredients. Put the mixture in the refrigerator for an hour or two so the flavors can marry, but not too much longer or the cabbage will get wilty.
Add color to your coleslaw with carrots, cilantro, yellow bell peppers, green onion, sprouts, and even some red cabbage. If you’re serving Mexican-inspired fish tacos, toss the coleslaw in a vinaigrette of mild olive oil, unseasoned rice vinegar, cumin, cayenne, and garlic. If Asian teriyaki skewers are on the menu, toss with sesame oil, seasoned rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, soy sauce and/or a bit of Sriracha sauce. You get the idea – have fun with your palette and your palate!
by Diane Vonglis Parnell
We all know how the roar of a leaf blower can shatter the tranquility of a morning, but the noise pollution they create (particularly the gas-powered, two-stroke engine models), is only one of their many environmental hazards.
According to the California EPA Air Resources Board:
• In one hour, one leaf blower produces as much smog as 17 cars. • One half-hour of one leaf-blower’s use is equivalent to one car driving 440 miles. • Leaf blowers emit large quantities of: carbon monoxide, nitrous oxides and hydrocarbons. • Their 200-mph air output blasts away topsoil, microbial life forms, animal waste, allergic fungi, spores, herbicides, pesticides, and heavy metals such as arsenic, mercury and lead. • The combination of engine emissions and dust particulates can exacerbate allergies and asthma, and aggravate acute pulmonary disorders such as COPD, and pulmonary fibrosis. • About 5 lbs. of particulate matter per leaf blower per hour are swept into the air and can drift for days before settling. • One resident's leaf blower can affect 8 to 14 neighbors.
1. Ask your landscaper to stop using leaf blowers on your property. 2. Talk to neighbors about the hazards of leaf blowers. 3. Make leaf raking fun. Let the kids play in a pile of leaves before sweeping them up. 4. Take advantage of the exercise that raking and sweeping offer. 5. Compost your lawn debris. 6. Enjoy the peace and quiet!
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.
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”
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.
by Zoe Allen
If you're looking for a way to develop an environmentally friendly habit and significantly reduce your electric bill, read on. The thermostat is one of the biggest money suckers on your bill. And, the numbers speak for themselves. In terms of cost savings, the U.S. Department of Energy estimates savings of about 1% for each degree of thermostat adjustment over an eight-hour period. So, if you turn thermostats back 7 to 10 degrees from normal settings for eight hours per day (e.g., in the winter when you are sleeping), energy savings would amount to 10%. To make things easier, invest in a manual, programmable thermostat. They are priced between $25 and $75 and are often easy to install yourself.
Intermittent fasting – is it the latest fad or a smart way to lose weight and improve overall health? Many studies show that intermittent fasting can produce dramatic effects on the health of your body and brain and may help you live longer. Throughout history, fasting has been a spiritual tradition and a common practice. Intermittent fasting is accomplished by adjusting your daily eating patterns. Typical fast times are between 14 to 18 hours. A common fasting pattern is to stop eating three hours before you go to bed, skip
by Madeline Palaszewski
breakfast, and eat lunch and dinner within a six to eight hour time frame.
The benefits of intermittent fasting include:
•Lowers triglyceride levels
•Insulin sensitivity improves which is crucial for optimal health
•Stabilizes your “hunger hormone”
•Levels of Human Growth Hormone increase which helps with fat loss and muscle gain
•Reduces inflammation and fights free radical damage
The studies emphasize that when you do eat make sure the calories are good quality. Design your diet to include vegetables, lean protein and healthy fats such as butter, eggs, avocado, coconut oil, olive oil and raw nuts. A regular exercise routine will provide even more benefits to intermittent fasting.
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 anti-oxidants 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!
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. Emotional Freedom Techniques
by Jennifer Bennett /SLO Veg recipe creator instagram @bennettpartyoffour
Sauce: Preheat oven to 425º. On a parchment lined baking sheet, place 8 halved tomatillos, 2 sliced pasilla peppers, 1 chopped sweet onion, and 1 yellow Mexican chili halved. Toss with 1 tsp olive oil, 1 tsp cumin, and salt and pepper. Roast at 425º for 25 minutes or until peppers and onion are browned and tomatillos are soft. Transfer all the veggies to a blender and add the juice of ½ a lime and ½ cup fresh cilantro. Blend until smooth and set aside.
Enchiladas: Preheat oven to 425º. Peel and dice 2 sweet potatoes and chop one sweet onion. Place the sweet potatoes and onion on a parchment lined baking sheet and toss with 1 tsp olive oil, salt, pepper, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp coriander, and ½ tsp chili powder. Bake at 425º for 30 min or until sweet potatoes are browned and fork tender. Once cooked, mix the sweet potatoes in a large bowl with 1 can of drained and rinsed black beans.
Set the oven to 350º. In a large baking pan or Pyrex, pour ½ the tomatillo sauce and spread so all the bottom of the pan is covered. Next assemble the enchiladas by placing a few tbsp of the sweet potato filling along with some fresh shredded Mexican cheeses (I used a mix of chihuahua, Oaxaca, and cojito) onto a tortilla of choice (I used whole wheat flour tortillas). Roll the tortilla with the filling inside and place into the sauce lined baking pan. Continue until all enchiladas are rolled (this recipe makes ten using the whole wheat flour tortillas). Once the enchiladas are rolled and in the pan, pour more of the fresh tomatillo sauce over the enchiladas to cover them. Sprinkle with ½ cup queso fresco and some fresh cilantro and bake at 350º for 25-30 minutes or until sauce is bubbly, cheese is melted and tortillas and queso fresco are golden brown. Serve with pickled red onions, Mexican crema, and fresh sliced avocado and enjoy!
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.
Keep a "Blessing Bag" in your car in case you see someone in need. You can make these up with items from any discount or dollar store such as gloves, socks, beef sticks, crackers, candy bars, toothpaste, toothbrush, wipes, deodorant, snacks and other items that may help someone who is homeless or in a bad way. It is just a thoughtful, inspiring thing to do. don't forget
Recipe: 4 ears of organic corn / 1 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil / 1 pint grape tomatoes / 2 medium avocados / ½ cup chopped yellow or red pepper / ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed / ½ cup extra virgin olive oil / ½ cup packed chopped fresh cilantro / zest of 1 lime / 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lime juice / Himalayan salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cut grape
tomatoes in half and cut the avocado into ½ inch pieces. Dressing: in a small bowl, whisk together the ½ cup olive oil, chopped fresh cilantro, lime zest and lime juice. Add a pinch of sea salt and black pepper. To the large bowl with the corn, add the halved tomatoes, diced avocado, red onion, and beans. Pour in the dressing, toss gently, and enjoy as a meal or side!
by Lori Waters
As autumn arrives, the transition in weather often leads to changes in our wardrobes. This season presents a perfect opportunity to embrace mindful consumption and make sustainable clothing choices. Instead of purchasing new items impulsively, consider a more thoughtful approach.
Start by evaluating what you already own. Layering is key in fall, and many pieces from your existing wardrobe can be repurposed with a few strategic additions. Prioritize quality over quantity by investing in durable, timeless pieces that can be worn year after year. Look for clothing made from eco-friendly fabrics like organic cotton, wool, or recycled materials, which are not only better for the environment but also offer warmth and comfort. Another great way to update your wardrobe sustainably is to explore second-hand options. Local thrift stores, consignment shops, as well as online platforms offer unique, high-quality items at a reduced cost. When purchasing new clothing, consider supporting brands that prioritize ethical production and sustainable practices. By making conscious choices this autumn, you can reduce your environmental impact while enjoying a wardrobe that reflects both your personal style and sustainability.
by Hepsharat Amadi, MD
One of the pleasures of fall is holiday food. However, the average American tends to gain anywhere from 2-5 pounds over fall and winter due to holiday eating. But this trend doesn’t have to be the case even if the person does partake in holiday feasts. There are ways that festive meals can be made healthier. One way is to shop and cook organic and as close to Nature as possible. Herbicides and pesticides are metabolized by the body as foreign estrogens which cause weight gain. Gluten is contained in wheat and disturbs blood sugar regulation even more than actual sugar does. One can minimize gluten content in one’s flour by ordering organic Einkorn wheat online. That contains one fifth of the gluten that regular wheat does. Or one can use other types of flour that do not contain wheat, such as almond flour.
There are many types of pasta nowadays that do not contain wheat. There is pasta made from rice, quinoa, beans, squash and konjac root. Trying new recipes can add new fun to holiday cooking. There are also other healthier choices other than sugar. Stevia or monkfruit extract can be substituted for sugar, both of which have a very low glycemic index and virtually no calories. Dried fruits such as dates, raisins, and figs can also be used to sweeten cookie recipes giving the added benefit of the nutrients they provide. End a meal with fresh fruit or nuts for dessert and still be satisfied!
www.dramadi.com
by Zoe Allen
1. If you have a ceiling fan, reverse the direction. The fan should be run in a clockwise direction (stand under the fan and if you feel a breeze, reverse the direction so that air is being drawn upwards). 2. Bring in any houseplants that have spent the summer outdoors. They'll help clean the air. 3. Before packing away those summer clothes, go through them and determine which items to keep, which items to re purpose into something else (cleaning rags, craft projects, etc.) and which to donate. 4. As the autumn leaves begin to fall, consider raking them up rather than using a "blower." Once raked up, use them as mulch to protect plants throughout the winter or add them to a compost pile. 5. Right now, the local farmers' markets are overflowing with delicious, local, and in-season fruits and veggies. Take advantage of this. 6. Cleaning and adjusting your furnace annually will ensure its operating efficiently, cut back on fuel use, and save you money this winter. 7. Don't forget to take some time to appreciate nature and the changing fall colors with a bike ride or walk in the crisp outdoors.
by Margaret De Stefano
The food industry is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions throughout its entire life cycle, from production and processing to distribution and consumption. Within the food industry, one significant source of these emissions is the production and disposal of traditional packaging materials. Traditional food packaging materials like aluminum, plastic, Styrofoam, polystyrene, and polyvinyl chloride greatly contribute to waste pollution in water and land environments. Eco-friendly food packaging refers to both practices and materials that prioritize minimizing environmental impact. This sustainable approach is used to package various foods, aiming to reduce waste,
conserve resources, and lower carbon footprints. It encompasses packaging that is: Biodegradable: Breaks down naturally into harmless substances through the action of microorganisms like bacteria and fungi. Compostable: Decomposes into nutrient-rich organic matter in a composting environment. Recyclable: Can be processed and used to create new products. Reusable: Designed for multiple uses, reducing the need for new packaging. Made from renewable resources: Sourced from materials that can be replenished naturally, such as bamboo, sugarcane, or wood pulp. For consumers, choosing products with eco-friendly packaging pushes the market towards more sustainable options.
by Mike Stairs
Computers and smartphones are becoming AI Integrated. This can be a helpful addition when getting useful information from the Internet, generating bits of program code, creating pictures and videos of sad cats, or having a quick human-like chat.
But there are bills to pay. Just the energy used to do this is tremendous. Software and hardware development is drawing hundreds of billions of dollars in investment just to stay afloat. Profits have to start coming in. So how does AI make money?
Advertising! An AI-generated advertising profile will provide the opportunity to sell just the right ad at just the right moment. Ever had the feeling of getting an ad about something you were just thinking or talking about? That’s your chat-buddy’s goal; knowing what you want before you do, finding it at bargain discount, and delivering it to your door for a small fee and tip.
maybe it's time to Give It
by Margaret De Stefano
Today we seem to live in a "throwaway" culture. The fact is it’s easy to just replace something that breaks. But did you know that repairing stuff is actually better for your pocket and the planet? Here are some reasons why:
It’s cheaper. The cost of repairing something is often much lower than the cost of replacing it. If your phone screen cracks for example, you can usually get it repaired for a fraction of the cost of buying a new phone and this goes more many more items. It’s better for the environment. When you repair something, you’re keeping it out of the landfill. You’re also reducing the amount of new materials that would have been used to make the item, which helps to reduce waste and conserve resources. It’s more sustainable. When repairing something, you’re extending its lifespan. This means that you’re not contributing to the already overflowing market for new products, which helps to reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing.
Of course, not everything can be repaired. But there are a lot of things that can. Here are a few examples:
Appliances. Most appliances can be repaired, even if they’re a few years old. This includes things like refrigerators, washing machines, and dryers. Electronics. Many electronics, including phones, computers, and TVs, can also be repaired. Clothing. Even clothing can be repaired if it’s not too damaged. This includes things like holes in jeans or buttons that have fallen off. Furniture. Furniture can also be repaired if it’s not too damaged. This includes things like broken chairs or tables.
Here are some additional tips for repairing stuff: Do your research. Before you start repairing something, it’s a good idea to do some research to see if there are any tutorials or repair guides available online. Be patient. Repairing stuff can be time-consuming, so be patient and don’t get discouraged if you don’t get it right the first time. Ask for help. If you’re stuck, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a friend, family member, or local repair shop.
Repairing stuff is a great way to save money, reduce waste, and help the environment. So next time something breaks, don’t just throw it away. Give it a second chance.
by Zoe Allen
Proper ventilation is crucial for maintaining a healthy home environment. Simply opening windows to let fresh air circulate can reduce indoor pollutants. Here are some helpful tips:
Cross-Ventilation: Open windows on opposite sides of your home to create a flow of air. This method helps in quickly removing stale air and bringing in fresh air. Exhaust Fans: Use exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove moisture, odors, and pollutants. Ensure they’re vented to the outside. Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans can help circulate air, reducing the concentration of
indoor pollutants. Remember to clean the blades regularly to avoid circulating dust. Air Purifiers: Consider investing in air purifiers, especially in rooms where you spend the most time, like bedrooms and living rooms. Look for models equipped with HEPA filters to effectively capture airborne pollutants.
by Margaret De Stefano
When you are trying to lose weight, non-starchy vegetables such as cauliflower are one of the few foods that can be eaten in unlimited quantities. Cauliflower contains the cancer-fighting phytonutrient sulforaphane, as well as a good amount of folate and vitamin C, which may be helpful for weight loss. In fact, a review from Purdue University pointed to vitamin C status as a key factor in how much fat is burned during physical activity. All that and it's pretty tasty, too. (If you're not a cauliflower fan, try spinach or broccoli.)
TIP: Love the creamy consistency of mashed potatoes? Steam a head of cauliflower and mash it with garlic salt, a sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese (or dairy-free) and a touch of butter (optional).
by Madeline Palaszewski
Turning in your beverage containers for cash will be easier when innovative recycling methods are implemented in San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties. CalRecycle has awarded nearly $70 million in Beverage Container Redemption Innovation Grants for 250 new recycling sites across 30 counties in the state. The sites will include recycling methods like reverse vending machines, mobile recycling, and bag drop sites.
Grant recipients in San Luis Obispo County received over $8 million for 4 projects with about 21 new reverse vending machines, mobile redemption, and bag drop off sites.
According to CalRecycle, Smart & Final was given $2.5 million to install reverse vending machines in front of their stores in San Luis Obispo county.
Reverse vending machines will clean and sort plastic, aluminum, and glass containers.
Grant recipients in Santa Barbara County received over $5 million for 4 projects with 10 new reverse vending machines, mobile redemption, and bag drop off sites.
“Innovative ways to recycle will help more Californians cash in their beverage containers and provide recycled materials for in-state manufacturers,” CalRecycle Director Zoe Heller said. “These new sites will make redemption as simple as feeding containers into a machine or dropping off a bag of empty containers.”
The new recycling projects are expected to roll out in 2025.
You may be surprised that EVERYDAY FOODS sometimes have unusual and unexpected uses. Here are six that can double as cleaning products that you may not be aware of: by Zoe Allen
1) Ketchup: Use it to clean copper or brass. The acid from tomatoes helps fade discoloration. 2) Banana: Blend banana peel with water as a polishing agent for silverware. 3) Walnuts: The natural oils in walnuts can lift scratches in wood furniture. 4) Coffee: If your fridge still smells like last week's fish dinner, place a dish of dry coffee grounds to act as a natural deodorizer. 5) Cucumber: Cucumber is good in a salad, and great as an eraser for scuff marks on walls.
6) Corn starch: Corn starch thickens soups and lifts up stains too. Cover a fresh carpet stain with corn starch, then vacuum up 30 minutes later.
by Margaret De Stefano
Food wastage is a notorious villain lurking in every kitchen, to the extent that around one-third of all food produced globally goes wasted. How do you go about fixing such a major problem on a personal level? One of the easiest ways to do it is through proper meal planning. Think of it as planning your work schedule, where you take a few minutes each week to plan your meals, using what you already have and making a list of what you need. It saves time, money, and ensures nothing goes to waste. Once the planning is done, it is equally important to ensure that the food is stored correctly to prolong its freshness. Using
airtight containers, freezer bags, and storage wraps will help in keeping your fruits and veggies fresh. No matter how hard one tries, there are bound to be some leftovers at the end of every meal, which usually end up in the waste bin. However, getting creative with leftovers and re-purposing them into a different food item could be a game-changer. For instance, leftover bread can be turned into croutons and crumbs for breading. Instead of throwing out water used to boil pasta or veggies, use the water for indoor or outdoor plants. Just be sure it does not contain salt.
Recipe: 20 lasagna noodles / 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil / 1 cup chopped fresh mushrooms / 1 cup chopped onion / 3 tbsp minced garlic / 2 cups fresh spinach / 3 cups ricotta cheese (or vegan option) / 1 tsp sea salt / 1 tbsp dried oregano / 1 tsp dried basil leaves / ½ tsp ground black pepper / 1 egg / 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or vegan option) / 3 cups marinara pasta sauce / 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan option).
Preheat oven to 350°F. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add lasagna noodles and cook for 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente; drain. In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook mushrooms, onions, and garlic in
olive oil until onions are tender. Drain excess liquid and cool. Boil spinach for 5 minutes. Drain and squeeze out excess liquid. Chop spinach. Combine ricotta cheese, spinach, salt, oregano, basil, pepper, and egg in a bowl. Add cooled mushroom mixture. Beat with an electric mixer on low speed for 1 minute. Lay 5 lasagna noodles in bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread one third of the cheese/ spinach mixture over noodles. Sprinkle 1 cup mozzarella cheese and ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese on top. Spread 1 cup pasta sauce over cheese. Repeat layering 2 times. Cover dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven for 1 hour. Cool 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
here's a guide to make the most of your
Arroyo Grande: Clark Center for Performing Arts Motown Mania, October 12th. Relive the golden era of Motown with a thrilling live performance celebrating iconic hits from The Temptations and other legends. In the Air Tonight: Celebrating the Music of Phil Collins & Genesis, October 19th. Disney Pixar’s Coco in Concert, October 28th29th. This event celebrates culture and family, making it an engaging event for all ages. Grover Beach: The City of Grover Beach Parks and Recreation Department starts the season with the 33rd Annual Dune Run and Walk Event on September 18th. Runners and walkers alike can enjoy breathtaking views while getting some exercise. Annual Carved Pumpkin Contest and Halloween Activities on October 28th, at Ramona Garden Park from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Residents are invited to carve or decorate pumpkins for a chance to win prizes in various age categories. Come in costume! Pismo Beach: Pismo Beach Clam Festival, running October 19th-20th. Enjoy a fun-filled weekend with chowder competitions and beach side festivities, while also learning about the region’s marine life and conservation efforts.
Avila Beach: The Avila Beach Farmers Market & Concert Series continues every Friday through October, offering fresh, locally-grown produce and handmade goods. Don’t miss the Avila Beach Triathlon on November 2nd. This event combines a focus on health and fitness with environmental awareness, all set in one of the most scenic coastal locations on the Central Coast. Nipomo: The Dana Adobe & Cultural Center is hosting several key celebrations this fall: Rancho Nipomo Harvest Day, October 14th. Celebrate the harvest season at the historic Dana Adobe with family-friendly activities, live music, and traditional crafts. Nipomo Native Plant Sale, October 28th. Experts will be on hand to provide guidance on creating eco-friendly landscapes that thrive in the region’s climate. Nipomo Halloween Parade, October 31st, a family-friendly event where children can show off their costumes and collect treats from participating local businesses. For more information, please reach out to the South County Chambers of Commerce at (805) 489-1488 or via email at office@southcountychambers.com
by Zoe Allen
Research at the University of North Carolina and published in the journal Scientific Reports, found that listening to a favorite song, boosted activity in the hippocampus, a region responsible for memory and socially-linked emotions. Every 67 seconds, someone in the United States develops Alzheimer’s. The disease affects millions around the world, however, one way to help jog long lost memories is by listening to music decades old. As we all know from hearing that song associated with a first love or leaving home for good, music is profoundly linked to personal memories. In fact, our brains are hard-wired to connect music with long-term memory. Even for persons with severe dementia, music can tap deep emotional recall. For individuals suffering from Alzheimer’s, memory for things, names, places, facts, is compromised, but memories from our teenage years
can be well-preserved. Favorite music or songs associated with important personal events can trigger memory of lyrics and the experience connected to the music. Music often calms chaotic brain activity and enables the listener to focus on the present moment and regain a connection to others. Persons with dementia, Parkinson’s and other diseases that damage brain chemistry also reconnect to the world and gain improved quality of life from listening to personal music favorites. The conclusion: An iPod and a set of earphones may do wonders for a loved one dealing with memory loss.
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
