Solstice Green Directory Winter 2020

Free

Winter 2020 / 2021

Winter Gatherings: Considerations...pg 10 Support Your Health and Your Farmers...pg 19 Love that Rosemary!...pg 26

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

Don't waste

electricity, paper, food.

Live the way you want to live,

but just don't waste.

Look after the natural world, and the animals in it and the plants in it too;

this is their planet as well as ours. ~ Sir David Attenborough

do we

Have a Choice?

We seem to have so much going on at one time. The pandemic.

The economy. And, individually all our own personal challenges.

It's a bit overwhelming. Climate change however is real and, it is happening in addition to it all. It is affecting life as we know it, and will forever change our planet. We are the first generation to feel the serious effects of climate change, and the last generation who will be able to do something about it. The less we have experiences with nature, the less we understand and care about the environment.

Young people are changing the narrative. They are asking lots of questions. They are looking for ways of doing things that generate less waste, use fewer materials and consume less energy. We need to join their efforts. If we roll up our sleeves and get to work together, we can be the poster children for the new world. Here's the question. Do we have a choice?

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 - Winter 2020 / 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 Winter 2020 / 2021

DIRECTORY 4 FEATURES Don't Throw Away Those Holiday Cards! 9 Winter Gatherings: General Considerations 10 6 Ways to Save Water 12 Save Money... While Saving the Planet!

16 The Versatile Pineapple!

17 Chocolate... Reaping the Benefits!

18 Support Your Health and Your Farmers!

19 Tips to Survive Losing Your Job 20 'Tis the Season for Green Cleaning!

22 Tips for the Times 24 Love that Rosemary!

26 Oranges... A Quick Winter Snack!

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Directory ASTROLOGY SLO Astrologers

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

CBD OIL Life Elements (805) 460–4102

Handcrafted CBD Topicals 8778 Plata Lane, Ste. A, Atascadero

www.lifeelements.com 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 25

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 25

CBD SKIN & BODY CARE Life Elements (805) 460 – 4102

Natural products designed to bring incredible results to your body and skin.

8778 Plata Lane, Ste. A, Atascadero

www.lifeelements.com

Please see display ad on page 25

Please see display ad on page 25

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 25

CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT R. Barkley & Associates (800) 211-5677 Professional Business Services Taxes, Bookkeeping, Home Loans, Investment Planning

www.rbarkley.com

Please see display ad on page 23

CLEANING Coastline Cleaning Company (805) 400-5433

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

www.slosolstice.com 4

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2020 / 2021

Green Clean Machine (805) 249-3816

Eco Friendly Professional Cleaning Hazardous Chemical Evaluation Organization/Harmonization gcmwellnessadvocate@gmail.com

Dentistry dedicated to protecting your total health.

www.pacificdentalexcellence.com

COMPUTER CONSULTING/TRAINING KCBX.net • (805) 781-2580 Microsoft Office, Photoshop, Quickbooks and more.

4100 Vachell Lane San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Please see display ad on page 15

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

DIRECTORY

DENTAL Pacific Dental Excellence (805) 929-6814

Certified, Advanced, Level 3 EFT Practitioner Meridian tapping technique

www.kcbx.net

www.miasimmons.com

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

Please see display ad on page 5

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 27

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 5

CUISINE www.CasaFestiva.com

“Exploring the culture of cuisine!”

Sustainability • Fun • Food & Wine Please see display ad on page 19

Like Us On Facebook!

facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory

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

@solsticegreen

Please see display ad on page 11

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.

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

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DIRECTORY

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 25

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

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 25

HEALTH FOOD STORES Sunshine Health Foods/Shine Café (805) 772-7873

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

Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay Please see display ad on page 25

Please see display ad on page 27

HONEY BODY CARE Life Elements (805) 460 – 4102

www.cgreenrealestate.com

HARVEST BOX DELIVERY 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 back cover

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

Eco Friendly Professional Cleaning Hazardous Chemical Evaluation Organization/Harmonization gcmwellnessadvocate@gmail.com

Pacific Dental Excellence (805) 929-6814

Dentistry dedicated to protecting your total health.

www.pacificdentalexcellence.com Please see display ad on page 15

@solsticegreen

Natural products designed to bring incredible results to your body and skin.

8778 Plata Lane, Ste. A, Atascadero

www.lifeelements.com

Please see display ad on page 25

JANITORIAL Coastline Cleaning Company (805) 400-5433

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

JUICE BAR Sunshine Health Foods/Shine Café (805) 772-7873 Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay Please see display ad on page 25

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

805.473.5064

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2020 / 2021

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

Contact us to get involved!

805-544-1777 @ecoslo on Facebook & Instagram

www.ECOSLO.org

Gay and Lesbian Alliance (805) 541-4252

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

www.GALACC.org

Los Osos Cares • 805-592-2701

We partner with other groups to help community members find resources and services. Open Tues – Friday, 12 -4pm Sunnyside School 800 Manzanita Dr. Room 18 in Los Osos

losososcares.com

Sierra Club-Santa Lucia Chapter (805) 543-8717 547-B Marsh St • San Luis Obispo

santalucia.sierraclub.org

SLO Green Build • (805) 286-0072

Non-profit green bldg education & support

www.slogreenbuild.org

ORGANIC CAFE Sunshine Health Foods/Shine Café (805) 772-7873 Whole Food Market & Organic Cafe 415 Morro Bay Blvd., Morro Bay Please see display ad on page 25

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

DIRECTORY

NON-PROFIT ECOSLO: Environmental Center of San Luis Obispo

777 Pismo Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 816 Main Street, Suite D Cambria, CA 93428 Please see display ad on page 23

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

777 Pismo Street San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 816 Main Street, Suite D Cambria, CA 93428 Please see display ad on page 23

Like Us On Facebook!

facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory

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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DIRECTORY

PRODUCE BOXES 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 back cover

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

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 25

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

Please see display ad on inside back cover

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

KCBX FM Public Radio (805) 549-8855

Solarponics.com

Serving California’s Central Coast since 1975.

4700 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA

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

Please see display ad on page 11

Please see display ad on page 32

“Exploring the culture of cuisine!”

Sustainability • Fun • Food & Wine Please see display ad on page 19

www.KCBX.org

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

SUSTAINABLE FOOD & WINE www.CasaFestiva.com

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

TILE Matt Clark Tile & Stone (805) 543-7600

Please see display ad on page 27

www.mattclarktile.com

www.cgreenrealestate.com 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

Like Us On Facebook!

facebook.com/solsticegreendirectory

@solsticegreen 8

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

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2020 / 2021

181 Tank Farm Rd. Ste. 140, SLO We carry beautiful environmentally friendly products Please see display ad on page 25

don't throw away those

Holiday Cards!

by Diane Parnell

The holidays are behind you.

You’ve turned your Christmas tree into mulch for the garden, and carefully folded wrapping paper to be reused. But what about the cards you received from friends and family? You could put them in the recycling bin but how about repurposing them to a good cause instead?

St. Jude’s Ranch for Children is a non-profit organization in Nevada, dedicated to rescuing abused, abandoned and neglected children, and they want your used cards!

The ranch was founded in 1966

by Father Jack Adam, with the goal of providing a safe, nurturing and therapeutic home for children. The Recycled Card Program offers teens an opportunity to learn life and work skills. It’s easy! Just cut the fronts off your cards, put them in an envelope and mail to: St. Jude’s Ranch for Children 100 St. Jude’s Street Boulder City, NV 89005 Also, go to their website for details about this program and all the wonderful services they provide these children: https://stjudesranch.org/ recycled-card-program

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

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COVID-19

Resource Guide

SLO County Alternatives to calling 911...

Homeless Resources

Mental Health Crisis Lines

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

SLO Hotline: (800) 783-0607

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

Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to: 741741

40 Prado Homeless Services Center

SLO: (805) 544-4004

LGBTQ+ Crisis Lines

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

National Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-8255

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

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

Senior Resources

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

Domestic/Intimate Partner Violence Hotlines

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

RISE: (805) 226-5400

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

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

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2020 / 2021

no-sugar, crock pot

Applesauce!

Recipe: 10 apples, cored and sliced (without peels) / 1 tbsp. cinnamon / ¾ cup apple juice / ½ tsp. sea salt (organic ingredients recommended). Pour apples and apple juice into the base of a slow cooker. Sprinkle cinnamon and salt over apples.

Stir. Set slow cooker on high, and cook for about four-five hours. Stir occasionally.

Mashing may be required and can be done with a fork or potato masher.

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Winter Gatherings general considerations...

by Margaret De Stefano

Winter gatherings typically include large gatherings of families and friends, crowded parties, and travel that may put people at increased risk for COVID-19. Here are some things to consider for holiday gatherings: Host outdoor activities rather than indoor activities as much as possible.

If hosting an outdoor event is not possible, and you choose to host an indoor event, avoid crowded, poorly

ventilated, or fully enclosed indoor spaces. Increase ventilation by opening windows and doors to the extent that is safe and feasible based on the weather.

Host activities with only people from your local area as much as possible.

Limit numbers of attendees as much as possible. Have extra masks on hand.

Also hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, and tissues.

Holiday traveling increases the chance of getting and spreading COVID-19.

Staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others. Follow these safety measures during your trip: • Wear a mask to keep your nose and mouth covered when in public places. • Avoid close contact by staying at least 6 feet apart (about 2 arms’ length) from anyone who is not from your household. • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol). • Avoid contact with anyone who is sick.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2020 / 2021

message from the south county

Chambers of Commerce

by Jocelyn Brennan, President/CEO

Looking to make more meaningful connections in 2021?

Business Meetings and Volunteer Committees are a great way for our Chamber members to connect with other business people, find out more about local issues, and enhance the quality of life in our community. Because each business community has unique needs, local Business Meetings have developed to work on projects in their community. Business Meeting participants make recommendations to the South County Chambers Board of Directors regarding events and goals for the businesses in their community and work together to see them achieved. There are Business Meetings currently for Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach, Pismo Beach, Nipomo, and Oceano. There are also opportunities to join the Ambassador Committee, Governmental Affairs Business Meeting, or the Marketing Committee. To participate in a Committee or Business Meeting, please visit our website to apply at southcountychambers.com. Click on the “about us” tab and choose the “committees” link.

Reach over

30,000 Readers for only $ 109

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6 easy

ways to

Save Water!

by Margaret De Stefano

1) Opt for reusable water bottles. Tap water is drinkable.

Keeping a nice, BPA-free water bottle in your bag is a simple way to save the cost of a three-dollar bottle of water (the same cost of 700 gallons of water out of the tap at home). Bottled water is incredibly wasteful on so many levels: An estimated 80 percent of them don't get recycled and, because of the plastic production process, it takes three times the amount of water in a water bottle to produce just one. 2) Install a low flow showerhead. It's an easy way to use 25 to 60 percent less water in the shower, which means big savings on the water bill. Most showerheads are adjustable, so it’s easy to use the low flow setting when lathering up and a high flow when it’s time to rinse. The cost? Affordable. 3) Turn off the tap. It’s an all-too-common habit to leave the tap running while washing your face, brushing your teeth, doing the dishes, and so on. It’s simple, and saves a lot of resources in the long run.

4) Repair that leaky faucet. A leaky tap can waste 140 gallons of water a week. That’s a pretty big dent in the utility bill. People are often unaware of leaks, so make a note to check all fixtures (including pipes under sinks) regularly.

5) Take shorter showers. Shaving even one minute off of the daily shower may save about a thousand gallons of water every year, which translates into big savings on the water bill.

6) Wash produce and save the water. Wash fruits and vegetables in a large bowl and save the runoff for watering the garden, lawn or those little potted plants. The same thing can be done after boiling pasta or potatoes. Just make sure the water is cool and not salted.

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2020 / 2021

easy non-dairy Tomato Soup!

Recipe: ⅛ cup extra virgin olive oil/medium onion, chopped / 2 cloves of garlic, minced / hot red pepper flakes to taste / One 28 oz can high quality crushed tomatoes / ½ tablespoon brown sugar / 1½ slices sandwich bread / 1 cup vegetable broth / 2 tbsp fresh basil to garnish. Sauté onions, garlic and hot pepper flakes.

Add crushed tomatoes, sugar, and bread. Bring soup to a boil, reduce heat to medium, and simmer while stirring until the bread starts to break down. Process half of the soup in the blender with 2 tbsp olive oil until smooth.

Repeat with remaining soup. Return to pot and add vegetable stock.

Bring to a boil and simmer for a few minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh basil.

Smile

It’s More Than Just a Beautiful Proud to be

Mercury Free & Safe!

The Central Coast’s Best Biological Dentist!

Providing better dentistry, in a less toxic, more individualized, and environmentally friendly way.

Walk Ins and Emergencies Welcome Services We Offer: Dental Cleanings • Tooth Colored Fillings 805-929-6814 Extractions. Bridges • Crowns • Dentures 530 W. Tefft Street Root Canal Therapy and Alternatives • TMJ Splints

Nipomo, CA 93444 Ask About Our Implants, PRF, & Ozone Treatments

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Save Money...

while saving the planet!

by Margaret De Stefano

Unfortunately, we’re all familiar with the current issues surrounding climate change and the state of our planet.

Recently a team of meteorologists reported that so far 2020 has been the hottest year on record. Sadly, it is just going to keep getting worse. Here are some tips on how you can help save the planet while saving some money too: Use a Clothesline: Dryers can be incredibly convenient. However, dryers are also expensive to run and use a huge amount of energy. So, instead of switching on your dryer, try switching to a clothesline instead. Even if you don’t have an outdoor space, you could consider drying clothes inside your home or on your balcony. Use Power Adapters or Bars With On/ Off Switches: We seldom have enough power outlets in our homes, which is why many of us opt for power bars or adapters to provide us with more sockets. However, as many of us are in the habit of leaving items plugged in

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2020 / 2021

and switched on at the mains, a bar or adapter with an on/off switch is much more convenient, environmentally friendly and can reduce your energy bills! Buy a Reusable Water Bottle: Do you pick up a bottle of water at lunch every day? Or when you head out for a walk? Not only is bottled water expensive but the plastic bottles we then throw away end up in our oceans or in landfill, taking hundreds of years to break down. Switch to LED Lights: LED lights last much longer than your traditional energy-saving bulbs, which means that having them installed will save you money in the long run. One study found that they reduced carbon emissions by 570 million tons in 2018 alone.

the versatile

Pineapple!

Although thought to have originated in South America, pineapples were first discovered by Europeans in 1493 on the Caribbean island that came to be known as Guadalupe.

In the 18th century, pineapples began to be cultivated in Hawaii, the only state in the U.S. in which they are still grown. They are second only to bananas as America's favorite tropical fruit. Although the season for pineapple runs from March through June, they are available year-round in local markets.

Pineapple is an excellent source of the trace mineral manganese, which is an essential cofactor in a number of enzymes important in energy production and antioxidant defenses. Bromelain extracts can be obtained from both the fruit core and stems of pineapple. Studies have shown that bromelain has a wide variety of health benefits. Excessive inflammation, excessive coagulation of the blood, and certain types of tumor growth may all be reduced by therapeutic doses of bromelain when taken as a dietary supplement. Add fresh pineapple to your morning smoothie, lunch time yogurt, any fruit and most vegetable salads. For example, try adding chunks of pineapple to your next coleslaw or carrot salad. Here is a smoothie recipe: 1 mango, skin removed and cut / 5 strawberries, stems removed / 1 cup diced pineapple / 1 cup orange juice / 4 ice cubes. Combine all the ingredients in a blender and puree until smooth for about 2 to 3 minutes. Makes two servings.

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17

Chocolate ...reaping the benefits!

by Margaret De Stefano

Always opt for dark chocolate with the highest cocoa content (at least 70%). Dark chocolate contains polyphenols and flavanols, which work as an antioxidant to protect your body from damage done by free radicals. Unrefined raw cocoa also contains epicatechins, another powerful antioxidant, but it has a bitter taste and is therefore often removed from commercially available chocolate. Good quality dark chocolate also contains more soluble fibers and a wide range of essential minerals such as iron, magnesium, copper, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, and selenium. Avoid white or milk chocolate. Milk chocolate interferes with antioxidant absorption and white chocolate is one big sugar bomb. Research suggests 7 grams of dark chocolate a day, or half a bar a week, is the ideal amount to reap the benefits. Dark Chocolate Strawberries: 2 tbsp. coconut oil, melted / ¼ cup cocoa powder / 1½ tbsp. maple syrup / ½ tsp. vanilla / 8 organic strawberries. In a glass bowl, blend all the ingredients above except strawberries. If chocolate is too thick, put bowl in warm water to re-melt. Holding the strawberry by the stem, dip into chocolate mixture and place on wax paper. Pop them in the freezer for 3–5 minutes for the chocolate to harden and then, indulge!

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2020 / 2021

Health Farmers

support your by supporting your

by Katy Budge

Well, 2020 has changed up our world, but thankfully farmers markets have remained relatively intact. They may be a little more hushed, but they are still an important part of our community.

As a method of food access, farmers markets were deemed essential businesses at the start of the pandemic, and indeed they are. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables has rarely been so important, especially as we’re entering the double whammy of cold and flu season. And, supporting our local agriculture producers is crucial not only for our individual health, but for the health of the community.

Yes, the masks are an inconvenience, as are the Matrix-like contortions often needed to respect the six-foot distancing rule. Once we didn’t have to think about all this. Now we do it all

because it’s the right thing to do, and it will let us keep our markets open so we can support our farmers.

Farmers already had a tough row to hoe, and were being further burdened by labor issues, climate change, tariff tiffs, the cost of land, decreasing availability of farm land, etc., etc., etc. Now add to that an international pandemic.

That the farmers themselves are even at the markets is a testament to their commitment. Yes, the markets are a crucial source of their income right now, but those farmers are facing the same health concerns we all are, often with limited financial cushions and sketchy access to health care. Yet there they are, at markets, to feed us. They deserve not only our support, but also our appreciation.

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19

Tips to Surviving Dismissal always creates a great deal of stress. It will be stressful even if you decide to write a letter of resignation yourself. You’ll have to look for a new position, enter a new team, change your habits, and so on. And in the case when the initiative doesn’t come from you, the stress is many times higher.

At the moment when you hear these unpleasant words, numerous disturbing thoughts will fill your head. However, despite the fact that you are feeling hopeless and upset and may hate the boss or yourself, you can’t afford to lose face. Professional behavior right to the end is very important. It will help you save the self-respect and respect of your colleagues. You can worry about your emotions later.

Look for the companies and vacancies you’re interested in. Write them down and think about what you can offer to each other. To find a new job, you’ll

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2020 / 2021

need a resume. Even if you have a resume, the information presented could be outdated. You definitely have something to add to your experience, skills, and competences blocks. A new resume is especially important in the case when you decided to change your specialization. Your resume should emphasize your focus on environmental sustainability, since this is something that sets you apart from other employees. You need to remember that a resume is nothing but a description of some product, i.e., a sales letter. Consequently, you should present and sell yourself in the most beneficial way. Your resume should: not contain criticism of the previous employers; not contain outdated or false information; be brief yet informative; include a

Losing Your Job

by Margaret De Stefano

definite and precise description of your achievements; be relevant to the vacancy, etc.

Social connections can become an excellent way of searching for new green job opportunities. If you want to keep your career path in the same sphere, and have good relations with your ex-colleagues, ask for their help and advice.

Relatives can also know something about vacant positions among their friends.

Sometimes social networks and professional communities publish current vacancies and contacts of HR departments. Specialized job search websites are one of the most popular sources.

If you are invited to an interview, you should be prepared for it as thoroughly as possible. Make a brief presentation of yourself. Tell about your experience and everything that may interest the employer. And finally, after the interview, you’ll be able to ask your questions. So, prepare them in advance in order not to forget anything and ask about salary, team, workplace, and other important topics.

Ultimately, dismissal is not the end of the world. The situation is unpleasant, it’s true, but you always have all the chances to use it to your advantage. It’s time to try a new profession, change your habits, improve everything you don’t like about yourself or your previous job.

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21

'tis the season for

Green Cleaning!

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

With all this time we're spending indoors, it's quite evident that our home/apartment calls for regular cleaning. Yet many cleaners used to remove dirt and dust within our household may irritate our eyes, lungs, and skin due to the various hazardous substances within them. These are just some of the ways to clean in a more environmentally friendly way with baking soda and vinegar: 1. Vinegar is effective in cleaning windows and mirrors. Try using approximately a quart of water mixed with one-fourth cup of white vinegar on the windows and wipe dry with a newspaper or rag. 2. Baking soda may be used as a carpet deodorizer.

Sprinkle baking soda on the carpet and let it remain overnight, then in the morning vacuum the carpet.

3. Sprinkle some baking soda inside of the dishwasher before using, as it will remove some of the material that collects inside and refresh the smell of the unit. 4. Use baking soda for

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2020 / 2021

cleaning the toilet. Sprinkle the baking soda into the bowl, then squirt with vinegar and follow up by scouring with a toilet brush. 5. Clean the tub and tiles by using two cups of baking soda and enough water to make a thick paste. Place paste on the tub or tile and leave for approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Use a soft rag to remove the paste from the surface. Spray the area with 50/50 vinegar and water to rinse.

6. For a slow moving drain, try using approximately a quarter cup of baking soda. Pour the soda down the clogged drain, followed by a half cup of vinegar.

Tightly close the drain until fizzing stops, then flush the drain area with boiling water. For completely clogged drains, use a plunger or a plumber’s snake to dislodge the clogged material.

7. Counters and walls can be cleaned with a mixture of approximately one part vinegar and three parts water.

May we continue to be respectful of life by reducing, recycling, reusing, and conserving the goods of our sister, Mother Earth.

mashed potato Pancakes Recipe: About 2 cups mashed potatoes / 1 egg (or egg substitute) / ¼ cup flour /sea salt and black pepper to taste / ¼ cup minced onion / ½ tsp garlic powder.

Mix mashed potatoes, egg, flour, salt, pepper, garlic, powder and onions into mashed potatoes. Preheat skillet and add a couple of tablespoons of olive oil.

Make sure the mixture is not too thin.

Pour ¼ cup batter into hot pan; brown on both sides. Enjoy with sour cream or applesauce.

Remember!

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

Kathryn A. Perry, DO Traditional Osteopathy Rational integration of conventional and alternative healthcare approaches.

777 Pismo Street, Suite B San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

816 Main Street, Suite D Cambria, CA 93428

(805) 548-8490 Traditional Osteopathic Practice

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

R. Barkley & Associates

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

Robert C. Barkley Certified Public Accountant

Bring More Green into Your Life Ph: 800.211.5677 / 805.929.0070 eM: rbarkley@rbarkley.com www.rbarkley.com P.O. Box 1590, Nipomo, CA 93444-1590

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23

Tips

for the

If you have to travel, especially by plane, train or bus, bring along a small bottle of essential oil. Thyme or oregano are good choices. Place a few drops on the sleeve of your shirt, or on the end of a scarf. Bring to your nose periodically throughout your trip and inhale deeply.

Refresh with a few more drops every hour or so. The molecules from the oil will line your nasal passages and thyme and oregano have antiviral and antibacterial properties. Thyme is also excellent for the lungs. At the first sign of a "scratchy throat," make an herbal steam tent. Boil 2 quarts of water and pour into a heatproof bowl with ½ cup

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2020 / 2021

Times

by Annie Keohane

of dried thyme. Place it on a table and sit in front of it with a towel placed over your head and the bowl. Inhale the steam deeply for no more than 10 minutes. Strain and gargle a few times with the thyme tea. Buy dried organic thyme in bulk at a health food or herb store; it's much fresher and cheaper than the small jars at the grocery store.

And a high quality essential oil to assure its purity and potency.

Fix Stuff

when it breaks!

Let's face it. Stuff breaks. Sites like Taskrabbit and Gigwalk make fixing the "unfixable" a lot easier and cheaper than it used to be. If the washing machine burns out, don’t throw it out with the bathwater (or laundry water).

Getting help is now a simple matter of online crowd-sourcing, and it’s a great way to reduce waste and add years to an appliance’s lifetime. You wouldn’t kill an appliance that didn’t have to die, would you? Need to recycle computers? The Exploration Station located in Grover Beach may be able to help. Call (805) 473-1421 or email: info@explorationstation.org Donated computers are refurbished and given to kids in need. www.explorationstation.org/!

Mon.-Fri. 9-6, Sat. 9-5 Sun 10-4

Fresh local produce, bulk foods, vegetarian café, natural remedies

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Relax by one of our pools

Or take a fitness class!

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love that

Rosemary!

Historically, the herb has always been seen as a mental booster. It is said that Greek students would wear rosemary while sitting for tests, believing the plant’s scent would boost their brain power. It’s also been used in remembrance since ancient Egypt, when the tradition of putting sprigs or wreaths of rosemary on the tombs of the dead first began. But, rosemary’s power of remembrance doesn't stop there.

Recent studies have found it to actually boost memory and stave off age-related cognitive decline. Sniffing the herb can increase memory by 75%! Try fresh rosemary in a jar or vase. Not only does it add a touch of greenery and life to a space, but it smells so delicious. Grow some of your own. Rosemary Sweet Potato Crisps: Peel and slice sweet potatoes or garnet yams into 1/16 inch rounds. Rinse briefly in cold filtered water and pat dry.

Arrange rounds on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and lightly mist with virgin olive oil (an oil atomizer works best for this) and bake at 320 degrees for 20 minutes.

Remove tray from oven, flip the potatoes over and lightly mist with oil once again. Sprinkle with sea salt, black pepper and rosemary and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the edges just barely begin to brown.

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2020 / 2021

my Grandmother once gave

me a Tip!

by Elena Mikhalkova

In difficult times, you move forward in small steps. Do what you have to do, but little by little. Don't think about the future, or what may happen tomorrow.

Wash the dishes. Remove the dust.

Write a letter (or now, send that email or text) Make a soup. You see? You are advancing step by step. Take a step and stop. Rest a little. Praise yourself.

Take another step. Then another. You won't notice, but your steps will grow more and more. And the time will come when you can think about the future without crying.

Quick Fact!

Making a can from recycled aluminum uses 90% less energy than making a can from scratch and cuts related air pollution by 95%.

Carmen Green

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

cgreenrealestate.com • 805.441.7370

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27

Oranges... a quick winter snack!

Who doesn't love a delicious and juicy orange as a snack? They are popular with athletes because they can be easily eaten for a burst of energy. If you crave fatty or sugary foods when you're feeling blue, eat an orange instead! The bright color, tart flavor, and texture of an orange delight many of your senses and may perk up an otherwise bad day.

The vitamin C in this tangy fruit is also necessary for creating energy boosting neurotransmitters in the brain. Oranges have been called a “perfect food” and contain an amazing array of healing vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. Oranges are also high in vitamin A, B-complex vitamins, folate, beta carotene, lutein, and minerals...Such as calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium. Oranges are an excellent weight loss food due to their high pectin content which also helps to reduce blood cholesterol. Oranges are an ideal “fast food,” easy to transport, delicious to eat, and provide a steady form of energy throughout the day.

Be sure to wash them under running water to remove surface dirt and any pesticide residues. Making fresh orange juice at home is easy and much better than those commercial drinks that may contain preservatives and artificial coloring.

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2020 / 2021

more than just a

Bar of Soap?

A bar of soap can be just as effective and more environmentally friendly than many alternatives you might find.

Don't forget the 3 W's: 1. Wear a mask 2. Wash your hands 3. Watch social distancing

Here are 3 uses for a simple bar of soap: Freshen Your Luggage: Pack a bar of your favorite scented soap when you store luggage. It will deodorize the insides of your bags and keep them smelling fresh. Keep Garden Pests Away: Keep garden bugs from eating away at your plant leaves by mixing soap with water and spraying the solution on the underside of each leaf. Deodorize Your Car: Here's an Inexpensive green way to deodorize and freshen your car. Just hang soap from your rear-view mirror. You can wrap it in mesh or cheesecloth first.

Canned Soup?

maybe not!

A Harvard study has revealed that concentrations of the chemical bisphenol-A rise around 1000 percent in people who eat one bowl of canned soup per day. Bisphenol-A is often used in the manufacture of plastics but companies put it in cans to line them. We do not know exactly what this amount of bisphenol-A does in the human body. Scientists, are making a lot of guesses that don't sound at all good. Apparently the chemical is an endocrine disrupter, which means it messes with one's hormones and has therefore been linked to cancerous tumors, birth defects, and other developmental disorders like learning disabilities, ADHD, and cognitive issues, as well as problems with heart disease, obesity and diabetes, and sexual development. Make your own soup.

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29

SLO Veg...

farm to table goodness!

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 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.

When it comes to taste there’s no comparison. SLO Veg’s produce tastes better because it is picked at peak ripeness. And it’s better for you, packed with essential nutrients. The Earth will thank you, too. Buying from local farmers produces a much smaller carbon footprint. On top of all of these benefits, there’s the convenience of having your fresh and delicious harvest box delivered right to your doorstep. During these difficult times, that is a huge benefit.

So, let’s add up the benefits of fresh harvest produce boxes from SLO Veg: better tasting produce packed with vitamins and nutrients picked by local farmers and delivered directly to your doorstep. Definitely too good for you and your family!

Sign up today and save $10 off your first box with promo code: solstice For more info, go to www.sloveg.com Bartimaeus Alan, Co-Owner of SLO Veg

Local Harvest

Delivery

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2020 / 2021

Save a Tree or two or three!

More than 25 million Christmas trees are sold in the U.S. each year. Come New Year’s Day, it may be tempting to pack up the bulbs and the ornaments, sweep up the pine needles and drop the tree on the curb or dump. But natural Christmas trees are 100 percent biodegradable as long as they aren’t buried in landfills.

Instead, they can be recycled into mulch and hiking-trail chippings. Some cities have even recycled Christmas trees into barriers for shoreline stabilization and beachfront erosion prevention.

Even better, buy a tree that you can replant in your backyard or garden or keep in a decorative planter outdoors!

better

Blooms!

Most of the cut flowers purchased in the United States are imported from Colombia, Ecuador and the Netherlands. Not only does importing flowers waste energy, but flower farmers abroad can often spray their crop with pesticides banned in the United States. Check out local farmers markets for flower farmers on the Central Coast.

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31

10 minute

Fresh

Basil Pesto

Recipe: 2 cups fresh basil leaves, packed / ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan-Reggiano / ½ cup extra virgin olive oil / ⅓ cup pine nuts / 3 garlic cloves, minced / sea salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste. Combine basil with pine nuts; pulse a few times in a food processor. Add the garlic; pulse a few times more. Slowly add the olive oil in a constant stream while the food processor is on. Scrape the sides of the food processor with a spatula.

Add the grated cheese and pulse again until blended. Serve with pasta, over baked potatoes, or spread over toasted baguette slices.

 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

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Solstice Green Directory - Winter 2020 / 2021

Local Harvest

Delivery

&

~ Marketplace ~

Fresh & Local Produce Boxes • Delivered to Your Home or Business •

,

Plus artisan items from our hand selected local partners

Organic Olive Oils • Signature Coffee Quick Pickling Kits & Spices • Sourdough Bread Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice • Vegan Cream Sauces Gourmet Vinegars • Fresh Local Fish Ancient Grains • Nutritious Super Foods. or Weekly liveries kly De Bi-Wee equired R t c a r t No Con rst Box i F f f o 10 Save $ romo Code: with P

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