SLO Veg is a local CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) and grocery delivery service located here on the Central Coast. We deliver optimally fresh food that’s healthier for our bodies, better for our community, and better for our planet. All of our food is grown and sourced locally, harvested daily, and delivered to your doorstep. We often say “knowing your farmer is the key to knowing your food” which is why everything that we offer can be traced directly back to the farm it came from, the hands that tended it, and the methods used to grow it. Our farmers and partners share the same commitment in cultivating sustainable practices that aid in restoring our region’s ecological and environmental health. These efforts have a dual impact of bettering the Earth while sustaining the culture and legacy of agriculture on the Central Coast for future generations. SLO Veg offers an exceptional service that not only makes us excited about finishing our vegetables, but inspires us to make a conscious decision about our food and where it comes from.
Rachael Hill & Bartimaeus Alan
If all the animals were gone, men would die from a great loneliness of spirit, for whatever happens to the animals also happens to the man.
All things are connected.
~ Chief Seattle
Nature is waiting...
Technology, we still believe, remains the solution. But is it really? It seems to me that the more virtually connected we get, the more disconnected we become from each other. Sometimes I wonder if we use social media to connect with the world, seeking to soothe a misplaced sense of belonging. None of these communication technologies involve human touch, and they all tend to place us one step removed from direct human experience. Just notice everyone looking at their phone in any restaurant. Each immersed in their own world in spite of having others sitting at the same table. We as humans are fine tuned for relationships. Our eyes, skin, ears and nose, are all senses designed to receive feedback and nourishment from each other, and our environment. Of all the world's creatures, perhaps those in greatest need of this connection are our children. They seem to be disconnected to the natural world around them.This collapse of most children's engagement with nature has been happening even faster than the collapse of the natural world. Many are beginning to notice. Is a large-scale re-connection with nature on the rise? Let's hope so. Nature is waiting patiently for us to come home.
Margaret Hennessy Founder/Publisher
Solstice Green Directory Mission: To provide information on environmental issues and ways to address concerns of residents on the Central Coast. To help educate consumers so that they can make better choices locally by providing visibility of green and healthy products and services. To develop and provide business networking opportunities to encourage relationships that will support a more sustainable community.
by
The Green Team: John Karp, Diane Vonglis Parnell, Margaret Hennessy, Madeline Palaszewski, and Monte Allen
Photo
Jenny Malott
Marketing
Distribution
Monte
Graphic Designer
John Karp
Jenny Malott
Advertising Sales
Madeline Palaszewski
John Kuebler
Miguel Torres
Rosa Solis
Vera Vargha
Tech Support
Jenny Malott
Bookkeeping/Copy Editor
Diane Vonglis Parnell
Solstice Publishing, LLC 4251 South Higuera Street, Suite 800 San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (805) 473-5064
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 15
HEALTH / FITNESS (CONT.)
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
JANITORIAL
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 21
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 – 10:00pm 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
NON-PROFIT
ECOSLO: Environmental Center of San Luis Obispo
Protecting & preserving SLO County's natural beauty through education, advocacy, and action since 1971! Contact us to get involved! (805) 544-1777
@ecoslo on Facebook & Instagram www.ECOSLO.org
Gay and Lesbian Alliance (805) 541-4252 1060 Palm Street, SLO
Through education, support, recreation, advocacy, and partnerships, we promote the well-being of our LGBT community. www.GALACC.org
Pacific Wildlife Care (805) 543-WILD (9453) On Call 365 Days per Year PacificWildlifeCare.org
SLO Review
Your SLO County link to arts & culture SLOReview.org
Please see display ad on page 13
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 19
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
PILATES
Peggy Jern
“To Health!” (805) 801-1951
Teaching Pilates in Los Osos Classes, Privates, and Zoom
Please see display ad on page 15
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 iside front cover
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 28
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 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
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
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 Place, Avila Beach avilabayclub.com
Please see display ad on page 13
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 9
the first-ever Tribal Marine Sanctuary...
by Margaret De Stefano
The US has created its first tribally nominated marine sanctuary. Designated in 2024, Chumash Heritage National Marine Sanctuary is America’s 17th national marine sanctuary, the sixth off the U.S. West Coast, and is one of the largest in the National Marine Sanctuary System. The sanctuary encompasses 4,543 square miles of Central California’s beautiful coastal and ocean waters, providing protection
to nationally significant natural, cultural, and historical resources while bringing new opportunities for research, community engagement, and education and outreach activities. The sanctuary is the culmination of a decades-long campaign led by the Northern Chumash Tribal Council to protect the coastline, wildlife and ocean sacred to the Chumash People.
why eat Local Food?
by Katy Budge
There are certainly a lot of challenges to eating local food. Affordability, accessibility, and just the fact that we want what we want when we want it. Another issue is the sheer immensity of our food industry. Its consolidation and efficiency is aimed at providing cheaper food, and we’ve become a society that often values cost over quality.
However, local food is proving to be more and more important to support, in part because of its resiliency. Big Food is actually a pretty fragile construct. Just consider how much disruption is happening because of global market unrest, extreme weather conditions, and whatever the food recall of the week is. Also, because it’s based largely upon profit, Big Food is failing a lot of communities. Grocery stores are pulling out of rural locations due to falling sales, leaving it to dollar stores and even pharmacy chains to be the source of “food.”
Here on the Central Coast, we’re lucky to have a healthy local food system comprised of farmers markets, independent groceries, artisan bakers, family-owned restaurants, multigenerational ranchers, award-winning cheesemakers, and skilled butchers, just to name a very few.
Yes, it is indeed a challenge to eat only local food, to be a strict “locavore,” but every time you do, you’re supporting not only these local food producers and purveyors directly, you’re supporting the systems that support them. You’re also keeping your consumer dollars in your community, giving them to people you know and trust.
And, if you doubt your power as one tiny consumer to affect change in the world, here’s a quote from the Dalai Lama. “If you think you’re too small to make a difference, try sleeping with a mosquito.”
don't throw away those Holiday Cards!
by Diane Vonglis 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
ECOSLO... cleaning up the community!
by Grant Helete, Program Director
Over 50 years ago four separate pollution events occurred in San Luis Obispo Creek in downtown SLO. Cal Poly biologists and students investigated and discovered thousands of dead fish and a severely damaged ecosystem. Their efforts to protect this local creek led to the creation of the Environmental Center of San Luis Obispo - ECOSLO! In November 1971 we opened the first recycling center in SLO County. In February 1972 ECOSLO officially became recognized as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, dedicated to protecting and preserving SLO County's natural resources.
Join ECOSLO for exciting days of tree planting and cleanups! Throughout 2025 we will be planting over 150 trees across SLO county, helping to create a greener future for our community! To register, please visit our website at ecoslo.com/events
Tree Planting: Johnson Ranch on January 18th & 25th and March 15th @ 9am-12pm Location: Johnson Ranch Open Space, 5190 Ontario Road, SLO
Tree Planting: Sinsheimer Park on February 8th @ 9am-12pm Location: Sinsheimer Park, 900 Southwood Dr, SLO
Tree Planting: Laguna Lake Golf Course on February 22nd and April 12th @ 9am-12pm Location: Laguna Lake Municipal Golf Course, 11175 Los Osos Valley Rd, SLO
Cleanup Day: Earth Day Cleanup @ Pirates Cove on April 19th @ 9am-11am Location: Pirates Cove Beach, 1717 Cave Landing Rd, SLO
Event: SLO Earth Fest on April 26th @ 11am-5pm Location: TBA
Join ECOSLO, the SLO Climate Coalition, and many more to celebrate Earth Day in SLO county! More details to come.
For more information www.ecoslo.org or call Grant at (805) 710-8018
a few tips for drinking More Water...
by Zoe Allen
We all know that drinking enough water daily is a benefit, but sometimes it just doesn't sound appealing. If you want to drink more, but aren't crazy about the taste (or lack thereof), here are some tips that can make it more enjoyable:
Add fresh fruit. Citrus fruits, such as lemons, limes, and oranges, are classic water enhancers. Cucumber and fresh mint are refreshing flavors as well. Use juice. Any fruit juice can be a good base flavor for water, but tart juices, like cranberry, pomegranate, grape, and apple, are especially delicious. Go for juices that are all natural, with no added sugars.
Try bouillons or broths. If your palate leans toward the savory, you may pass on tea and start sipping one of these hot and savory liquids instead. Choose low-fat and low-sodium versions for maximum health benefits. Drink tea.
Herbal, fruit, green, white, and red teas are generally considered to be better for you than black teas (or coffee, for that matter) because they contain little to no caffeine. There are also countless flavors to choose from. Get sparkly. Try carbonated waters for a change. Bonus Tip: Every time you feel tired, hungry, or head-achy, drink a glass of water. Often, it is dehydration making us feel worse. A glass of water can help to revive you and meet your daily water intake goal too. Thirsty?
French Onion soup easy
Recipe: 6 large yellow onions, diced / 3 cloves garlic, minced / ¼ cup teriyaki sauce / 2 tbsp sesame oil / 8 cups vegetable stock / croutons / 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.
Health News take Control of your Health...
by Madeline Palaszewski
Now more than ever women need to take control of their health care. A holistic approach to women’s health that integrates emotional, mental, and physical well-being is essential. According to News Medical Life Sciences, preventive care is an integral part of taking control. It’s about fostering overall health and creating an environment where women can thrive. The World Health Organization defines health as “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.”
For women, especially in reproductive health, adopting a holistic approach requires greater attention and specialized care.
Giving women the knowledge and resources is key to positive outcomes. When women understand their bodies better, they are more likely to adopt beneficial behaviors that lead to healthier lifestyles. Lifestyle choices play a significant role in preventive healthcare. Nutrient rich diets, regular exercise, adequate sleep and social interaction all contribute to overall wellbeing and reproductive health for women.
for Women get fit with Pilates!
by Madeline Palaszewski
Are you strong? Flexible? How is your energy level? If you aren’t happy with these key areas, there’s something you can do right now that will improve them. Exercises that strengthen our core and improve our balance are essential to remaining flexible and being able to move without pain as we age.
Strengthening our core muscles help our balance and posture to allow correct movement for every day activities. Understanding which muscles we over use and which
muscles are weak and underused allow us to realign and become more agile. Proper stretching techniques to lengthen our muscles will help us to release sore tight muscles and open up tight joints. Exercises like Pilates, GYROKINESIS® and GYROTONIC® methods can improve our overall fitness and quality of life. All ages and abilities will benefit from these exercises. All you need is the desire to improve your fitness level, whether you are new to exercise or an elite athlete.
cranberry upside down Spice Cake
by Jennifer Bennett /SLO Veg recipe creator instagram @bennettpartyoffour
Preheat oven to 350º. In a small sauce pan, melt ½ cup butter with ¾ cup packed brown sugar, the zest of one lemon, ½ tsp cinnamon, and ½ tsp vanilla extract. Once melted, pour onto the pre greased bottom of desired baking pan (bundt, loaf, muffin, sheet cake). Sprinkle in 1 cup fresh cranberries.
Mix dry ingredients in a large bowl
3 cups flour / 2 tsp baking powder / 1tsp cinnamon / 1 tsp nutmeg / 1 tsp cloves / 1 tsp ginger / ½ tsp salt / ¾ cup sugar / ¼ cup packed brown sugar.
Stir in wet ingredients:
3 eggs / ½ cup apple sauce
1 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract / 1 cup cream or milk
Stir to combine, then pour batter on top of cranberry mixture and bake for 45 min to 1 hour for a bundt or loaf. Reduce time to 25-30 min for muffins. Once a toothpick comes out clean, remove the cake from oven and let cool for ten minutes. After ten minutes, use a cake pan or sheet pan to flip the cake over so the cranberries are on the top. Let sit for at least 20 min before serving! Enjoy!
Apple Cider Vinegar
by Margaret De Stefano
Apple cider vinegar’s medicinal qualities have been applied since 400 BC, when Hippocrates advised it’s use as an agent for cleansing and healing. Modern medical research has found that apple cider vinegar helps to keep blood sugars balanced in people with type 2 diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity and lowering the glycemic index of any food it’s consumed with. The glycemic index is a measurement of how quickly a food causes blood sugars to rise, and a high glycemic index is linked to overweight, obesity and diabetes. This is good news for the millions of Americans who wish to find easier solutions for weight loss. Apple cider vinegar may help restore homeostasis to the body, and balance the inner ecosystem, making the internal pH more alkaline. Since disease prefers an acidic environment provided by processed food, apple cider may also help with weight loss, by breaking down fat.
Apple Cider Vinegar Tonic Recipe:
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (organic) / 1½ cups warm water / 1 tbsp natural honey or vegan sweetener. Mix all ingredients and drink.
tips for Winterizing your Vehicle
by Margaret De Stefano
Although the Central Coast doesn't experience extreme winter weather, here are some helpful safety tips to follow this season:
Check the pressure: Having the correct tire pressure improves traction on cold wet conditions. A properly inflated tire also will help protect against wheel damage when driving over potholes. Check the battery: Cold temperatures can cut a battery power in half. If your vehicle’s battery is more than three years old, have it tested to ensure it will carry a charge, and that the posts and connections are free of corrosion. Replace worn pads and shoes: Have a professional check the brakes. Maximum stopping power is essential on wet or slippery roads. Keeping your car in tip-top shape for winter will improve fuel economy and vehicle performance while reducing polluting emissions. It will also ensure the safety of you and your passengers. Tune it up: Check all hoses, belts, spark plugs, and electrical wires to make sure they are in good working order. Check the tread: Tires are critical during the winter season. Worn tires perform poorly on slippery roads, making them a potentially severe safety hazard.
Pomegranates ...nutritious
The pomegranate has achieved "superfood" status in recent years. It offers a wide array of nutritional benefits and adds a delicious, colorful element to any meal. It was originally native to Iran and Northern India; however, it has been cultivated in the northern hemisphere for centuries. Pomegranates are rich in potassium, fiber, vitamin C, vitamin B5 and antioxidants called polyphenols.
winter treat!
Pomegranates have also been found to possibly have health benefits including: reducing cholesterol, reducing blood pressure, reducing inflammation, improving response to cancer treatment and helping to protect against environmental damage and aging. The seeds and juice are a great addition to any menu: sprinkle the seeds on a salad for a dash of color, flavor, and nutrition; add pomegranate juice to a smoothie for a delicious antioxidant boost; blend pomegranate seeds or juice into a homemade salad dressing; sprinkle pomegranate seeds into oatmeal for a hearty, nutritious breakfast; stir pomegranate seeds into yogurt for an added boost and use pomegranate seeds to decorate desserts in place of sugary sprinkles.
Styrofoam recyclable?
by Zoe Allen
Styrofoam, also known as expanded polystyrene or EPS, takes 500 years to biodegrade. The technology to recycle EPS exists, but most communities do not accept styrofoam in their curbside recycling programs. As a result, most styrofoam ends up in landfills where, along with other plastics, it takes up
between 25 and 30 percent of the space. The good news is that there are many perfectly good biodegradable alternatives to styrofoam packing peanuts and food containers. More good news? Many municipalities have banned the use of styrofoam food containers.
EFT
we are Evolving...
by Hepsharat Amadi, MD
Well, this has been a tumultuous year, to say the least! What with all the drama around the presidential election and so many other political and environmental issues at times it's been extra stressful. It's easy to lose sight of the fact that we are all Americans when we divide ourselves into different camps and judge by external factors. But we all want the same thing, as do all the other people of the world: freedom from want and oppression, good health and safety for ourselves and our families, freedom to express ourselves, self actualize and live in a healthy environment. Unfortunately, many crimes and wars have been perpetrated in the name of fighting the "other." But war and violence only breeds more war and violence, both individually and collectively.
Not to mention more trauma. It is not the survival of the fittest that will win, but rather the survival of the most cooperative. We all need to live on a clean planet. We are all citizens of the world. We all need to work together to make sure justice and sanity prevail. Although it may seem bleak right now in many ways, the challenge for each of us is to do whatever we can do, both individually and collectively, because it's vital, only we can do it and the journey is equally as important as the destination.
In one of my all-time favorite pieces of fictional literature, the Lord of the Rings trilogy, Frodo says,"I wish none of this had happened." And Gandalf, the wizard replies, "So do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given to us."
www.dramadi.com
the many benefits of Pine Nuts!
by Zoe Allen
Pine nuts are not really nuts but are the edible seeds of about 20 different species of pine cone. They have been eaten as food since the Paleolithic period and today are most commonly eaten as an ingredient in pesto sauce. Here are some benefits:
Weight Loss: Even though they are high in fat, eating pine nuts on a regular basis can boost your weight loss efforts because they contain pinoleic acid, which research has found to be an effective appetite suppressant.
Cardiovascular Support: They are a great source of monounsaturated fats, which have been linked with lower cholesterol levels and a lower risk of heart attack. They are also high
in vitamin E, vitamin K, copper, iron, and manganese, all of which help the cardiovascular system. High in Iron: They are a great source of iron, which is a key nutrient for many processes of the body, including circulation and nerve regulation. Anti-Aging: The antioxidants in pine nuts slow down the aging process because they help to remove free radicals from the body.
Eye Health: Pine nuts contain lutein, an antioxidant that is crucial to the prevention of eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts. They also contain vitamin A in the form of beta carotene, another important eye vitamin. Energy Boost: When you are feeling tired or fatigued, pine nuts can give you the boost that you need because they contain protein and magnesium.
Vaping and Teens
is it dangerous to their health?
by Zoe Allen
According to Health Standard Newswire, E-cigarettes, vaping, have become the most common way for young people to consume nicotine. New research reveals a troubling connection between frequent vaping in teens and their higher exposure to dangerous metals such as lead and uranium. This study investigated factors associated with biomarkers of metal exposure (cadmium, lead, uranium) in adolescent e-cigarette users and assessed metal biomarker levels by vaping frequency and e-cigarette flavors used. These metals can harm brain and organ development, and exposure to toxic metals such as lead and uranium can lead to cognitive impairments, behavioral issues, and other severe health complications. The research also found that certain flavored e-cigarettes, which are designed to be more palatable, contain even higher levels of toxic substances in them. Exposure to chronic low-level lead exposure has been linked to poor cardiovascular, renal, cognitive, and reproductive outcomes. The findings of this study will need further scrutiny--but they do add to the body of knowledge that vaping does expose our bodies to dangerous chemicals and metals. The American Lung Association offers excellent resources to facilitate discussions about vaping cessation among parents, their children, and healthcare providers. Talk to your healthcare team.
the time is NOW...
by Mike Stairs
Now might be a good time to get a new personal technology device. Geopolitics will soon make consumer electronics such as smartphones and computers more expensive, and at the same time demand the protection and stability of a current device that receives regular security updates.
Tariffs result in higher prices. China has officially labeled western chips, manufactured by Nvidia, AMD, and Intel, as “dangerous” in an effort to promote their native producers. Wars in trade, information, and several regions all contribute to higher prices and the need for increased personal electronic security.
Most smart phones have a date of guaranteed continued support. Be sure your phone will remain secure, as using them beyond this date becomes more dangerous as time passes. Windows 10 computers look to have less than a year of updates remaining from Microsoft. Update to Windows 11 if your computer supports it, or catch a bargain on sale!
Keeping Your Family Safe
Disasters can hit at any time: earthquakes, wildfires, floods, nuclear melt down. It doesn’t matter what disaster you experience, unless every member of your family is at home all the time, there is a pretty good chance you’ll be separated at some point, either during or after the disaster. One or both of the parents could be at work, children at school or friends’ homes or other extra curricular activities. Or you could get separated in the confusion of the aftermath. These tips will give you a better chance of keeping your family together in an emergency.
1) Have a plan. Write the plan down so nobody is confused. A written plan clears up all the details for everyone involved and helps you remember what you decided on. Make sure every family member has one. 2) Have more than one method of communication. Cell phones work great on a normal day, but in an emergency the towers can become overloaded and your calls
may not go through. Because texting works on a slightly different part of the airwaves and uses very little of it, texts might get through when phone calls cannot. Two way radios work well, and anyone can use them. They have a limited range, usually restricted by line of sight, so if you are far from home they will likely not be your best option. Amateur or ham radios can carry signals farther than most other methods and are extremely reliable. Range can be limited if repeaters (specific radio towers) are damaged during the disaster, and each family member that will be using the radio needs to be licensed. 3) Have a code word for emergency. A code word or phrase can communicate a lot of information with just a word or two and set your family’s emergency plan into action. You could have a code word to text to older school age children that means they are to check themselves out of school immediately using a pre-written note signed by their parents and return home. Or a code word that notifies everyone to get
7 Tips to Follow in an Emergency
by Margaret De Stefano
to a predetermined safe area. 4) Get to know the emergency plans of any schools or care centers your children attend. Do they have a plan in place or any restrictions on parents picking children up during or after an emergency?
5) Keep updated family photos in each family member’s emergency kit. This does not need to be a professional photo. Everyday photos will do, since that’s probably what you’ll look like in an emergency. It is much easier to ask if someone has seen your child (or parent) if you have a photo of them. 6) Establish at least two meeting places. One within walking distance of your home, and one within half a tank of gas. In the event your home is damaged, but others are not, where in town could be your backup meeting place? Maybe a trusted neighbor or friend’s house, a church or public building. But what
You could be separated in the confusion of the aftermath.
if your entire town is evacuated or deemed unsafe, where will your family meet? Choosing a place within half a tank of gas driving distance (up to 250 or 300 miles from your home depending on your vehicle) will get you out of harms way and make it so you do not need to stop for gas to get there. You are filling your gas tank before it gets below half full, aren't you? If you haven't been, this is a good reason to start! 7) Make a long term separation meeting plan. What if the affected area is very large and communications and travel are down for an extended time? For this meeting plan, pick a specific day or two of the year that your family can all remember and a place that you will meet on those days. Example: On mom’s birthday we will meet at the park at the center of town. Following these tips can greatly increase the chance that your family can stay together or be reunited following a disaster.
how to build a sustainable winter Emergency Kit
by Lori Waters
Preparing for winter emergencies with a sustainable mindset is all about choosing eco-friendly, durable, and reusable products that reduce waste and minimize your environmental footprint. A sustainable winter emergency kit is designed not just to keep you safe during storms or power outages, but also to ensure that the items you rely on are longlasting and planet friendly.
Start with a solar-powered flashlight or hand-crank lantern, which eliminates the need for disposable batteries and ensures you have a light source when the power goes out. Reusable hand warmers, made from natural materials like rice or flaxseed, are a great alternative to single-use chemical warmers. For warmth, consider using wool blankets or thermal
clothing made from organic fibers, which are both sustainable and effective for insulation.
Instead of relying on plastic water bottles, use a stainless-steel thermos or water filter to ensure access to clean water without creating waste. A biodegradable phone charger, powered by a small solar panel, is another great tool for staying connected without relying on disposable batteries.
Finally, include natural, non-toxic supplies like beeswax candles, ecofriendly multi-tools, and upcycled or repurposed items wherever possible. Building a sustainable emergency kit not only helps you stay prepared, but also contributes to reducing your overall environmental impact in times of crisis.
crock-pot spinach and mushroom
Lasagna
Recipe: frozen box of spinach (thawed and squeezed dry or fresh chopped) / 2 tbsp olive oil / 2 cloves garlic chopped / 1 small onion chopped / 8 oz fresh mushrooms sliced / ½ tsp sea salt / 8 oz / tomato sauce / 6 oz tomato paste / 2 cups chopped tomatoes / 12 lasagna noodles, uncooked / 1 egg, slightly beaten (or egg substitute) / 15 oz ricotta cheese (or dairy free) / 2 tbsp parsley flakes (or fresh chopped /dash black Pepper / 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (or dairy free). Heat olive oil in a medium skillet. Add garlic, mushroom, onion, salt and let simmer for about 10 minutes or until mushrooms and
onion are tender. Add tomato paste, tomato sauce, and tomatoes cooking at least 10 minutes. Mix egg, spinach, ricotta cheese, parsley, and pepper. Add enough milk (or almond milk) to make ricotta cheese mixture creamy. Spread a layer of spaghetti sauce over the bottom of a 4 to 6 qt crock pot. Layer 4 noodles, broken into pieces to fit, then add a layer of tomato sauce mixture followed by a layer of ricotta cheese mixture, sprinkling half of mozzarella cheese over ricotta cheese mixture. Repeat layers. Cover and cook on low setting 4 to 7 hours. Parmesan optional.
Out of Your Gourd? some winter squash tips...
by Margaret De Stefano
1) Acorn: Loaded with fiber. Great for roasting. Peeling is difficult so cut in half first. Skin is edible. 2) Butternut: Best for roasting and soups. It has the highest doses of vitamins A and C.
3) Spaghetti: The larger the squash, the better the flavor. Great for roasting. Scrape out strands and serve with butter or pasta sauce. 4) Delicata: Also called sweet potato squash. No peeling necessary (you can eat the skin). Best for roasting and stuffing.
5) Hubbard: A whole squash will keep up to 6 months. Great for pie fillings, purees and fillings.
Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash
Recipe: 2 acorn squash (cut in half and scooped clean) / 4 tbsp. maple syrup / 2 tbsp. butter (or coconut oil) / 1 cup thinly slices apples. Place the acorn squash halves in a baking pan with the cut sides up. Put 1 tbsp. of maple syrup, ¼ cup sliced apples and ½ tbsp. butter (or coconut oil) into each acorn squash half. Cover with aluminum foil and roast in a preheated 400° oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and roast until tender, about 30-45 minutes.
prescription for... Aging Well!
by Margaret De Stefano
Getting older is a natural part of life. How you will feel depends on many things, including what health problems run in your family and the choices you make. No matter when you start, a healthy lifestyle can make a difference in how you feel and what you can do. Aging well means living well. Here are some ideas to keep your mind and body healthy:
1. Exercise your mind: Read anything, from your daily paper to Shakespeare. Do crossword puzzles, visit museums, sign up for a class at the local college, or seek out special workshops by local individuals. 2. Exercise your body: Join a gym. It may be challenging, but you’ll find something you enjoy. You can try walking, swimming or even dancing.
3. Exercise your compassion: One of the great things about growing older is that we grow more compassionate. Tell people in your life how much you care about them.Show others that you are interested in what they have to say. Become a better listener. 4. Stay connected: Social networks really contribute to our quality of life. For example, staying active in a church or other community group keeps us connected to each other, which is important.
Can Owning a Pet improve your health?
The American Heart Association released a scientific statement listing a summary of the most relevant studies regarding pet ownership and cardiovascular risk/benefit. They concluded that a substantial body of data suggests that pet ownership is associated with a reduction in CVD (cardiovascular disease) risk factors and increased survival in individuals with established CVD. Some of the reported benefits resulting from pet ownership included: lower resting heart rate, reduced
by Zoe Allen
risk of hypertension, increased physical activity, faster recovery of heart rate, lowered reactivity to stress, elevated parasympathetic (rest and restore) and diminished sympathetic (fight or flight) nervous system responses, and greater heart rate variability.
Research is showing that in addition to bringing comfort, joy and healing into our everyday lives, pets are also capable of assisting and aiding those with serious medical conditions. As reported in WebMD, a study presented at The American Stroke Association's International Stroke Conference some years ago reported that owning a cat was linked with a 40% lower risk of death after a heart attack. UCLA researchers found that AIDS patients who own pets are less likely to suffer from depression. The emotional bond between the animal and the owner adds something more. Pet ownership is not a substitute for human support, but it's another way to express and receive love. The conclusion suggests that the strong human-to-animal bond is indeed powerfully therapeutic.
give stuff a Second Chance...
by Margaret De Stefano
Rethinking is the first step on our journey to sustainable living. It involves questioning our habits, choices, and consumption patterns. This is a crucial mindset shift because it helps us recognize that the way we’ve been living isn’t sustainable in the long run. Reuse is a smart and eco-conscious practice that breathes new life into everyday items. Reusing isn’t just environmentally friendly, it’s also a budget-savvy choice that can benefit your wallet while benefiting the planet. Here are some ideas: Thrifting: Explore thrift stores for
clothing, furniture, and household items. You’ll find unique treasures while reducing demand for new products. DIY: Get creative by upcycling and re-purposing items. Turn old pallets into furniture, transform glass jars into storage containers, or craft your own decorations. Repair: When something breaks, consider repairing it rather than replacing it immediately. This not only saves money but also reduces waste. Buy Recycled: Support the recycling industry by purchasing products made from recycled materials. Look for labels that indicate recycled content.
enjoying Winter Wonders in south county!
Arroyo Grande: The Clark Center for the Performing Arts lineup: In January, don’t miss the laughter-filled "Girls Night: The Musical" on January 16 or the visually stunning "The Aluminum Show" on January 25. February brings a mix of classic entertainment and elegance with the soulful harmonies of "The Platters, The Drifters, and The Cornell Gunter Coasters" on February 1, followed by the timeless charm of "The Great Gatsby Ballet" on February 6. Grover Beach: Grover Beach Department of Parks and Recreation will host the Family Dance – Jungle Party on March 7, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Grover Beach Community Center. Dancing, refreshments, and family fun. Pismo Beach: Surfs up at the SLO CAL Open in Pismo Beach, from January 20 to January 26, this event is part of the World Surf League's Qualifying Series, attracting surfers from around the globe to compete at the Pismo Beach Pier. Every Wednesday from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, the Pismo Beach Pier Plaza comes alive with the weekly Farmers Market.
Avila Beach: Central Coast Aquarium is proud to announce the Big Fish Little Fish Program. Designed for children aged 2-5, this engaging program at the offers hands-on learning, crafts, story time, and animal interactions. Sessions are scheduled for January 8, February 5, and March 5, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM. At the scenic Avila Beach Golf Resort, mark your calendar for the C10 SLO Down Truck Show on Saturday, July 26 and Sunday, July 27, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. This exciting event will feature a stunning array of GM trucks, offering a full day of automotive fun and community spirit by the coast.
Butterfly Migration: The Monarch Butterfly Grove is located at 445 South Dolliver Street, Pismo Beach, CA 93449. The grove is open daily from sunrise to sunset, with peak viewing season from late October through February. For more information, please contact the Interpretive Office of the Oceano Dunes District, California State Parks, at (805) 474-2664.
For more information, please reach out to the South County Chambers of Commerce at (805) 489-1488 or via email at office@southcountychambers.com.
why Solstice?
by Margaret Hennessy
We have been asked many times why we chose the name Solstice for our Green Directory. Twice each year, the Earth is at a point in its orbit, where one hemisphere is most inclined away from the Sun. This causes the Sun to appear at its farthest below the celestial equator when viewed from the far hemisphere. It creates the longest day (summer) or longest night (winter). The Sun appears to “stand still,” which is the literal Latin translation of the word solstice. It can go no further before returning to balance. It then begins its journey back to the point of equinox (equal day and night). We are now at the point of “solstice” for our species and all living things on Earth. We too must begin our journey back to balance on this beautiful shimmering blue planet we call home, if we are to survive into the future.
This publication and you, our readers, are a community of like-minded individuals striving for a more sustainable future. Do you have any ideas, suggestions, or related content? Please, let us know! If you would like to contribute to our team of writers, researchers, marketing and advertising, or have your own ideas on how you would like to get involved in this valuable project, please contact us at (805) 473-5064 or email Margaret at margaret.solstice@gmail.com
an award winning Shopping experience!
Take a trip to the California Fresh grocery store in Pismo Beach and you’ll see why so many Grocer awards line the walls. As you begin your tour, you’ll notice a wide selection of freshly prepared hot or cold deli offerings, a sushi bar, bakery department, full service butcher shop, full selection of health and fitness products (including an in-house consultant to help answer any questions), fresh wild caught seafood, bulk bins and a lot more. While there, you can also choose from a wide variety of fresh local produce. Like fresh
by Kathleen Stout, M.A.
roasted coffee? Select your favorite at the in-house coffee bar. If you’re in the mood for a freshly squeezed organic juice, the juice bar has just what you need. Enjoy lunch at one of their restaurant-style booths, offering a comfortable spot to indulge in the many hot or cold choices available at the deli. Stop by any one of their store locations in Pismo Beach, San Luis Obispo, or El Rancho Marketplace in Solvang and enjoy an award winning shopping experience.
Coffee and Organic Juice Bar, Deli and Bakery Department, and Full Service Butcher Shop plus Fresh Wild Caught Seafood
