Morro Bay Life • July 2020

Photo By Nicholas Mattson

JULY 2020 • MORROBAYLIFENEWS.COM

d e t r a h c n U

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

SEE PAGE 8

SUPPORTING LOCAL FARMERS DURING COVID SEE PAGE 11

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT NO. 19 PASO ROBLES, CA

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT ON REVERSE MORTGAGE

******ECRWSSEDDM****** POSTAL CUSTOMER MORRO BAY, CA 93442

PASSIONATE JUNE 5 PROTESTMARCH STAYS PEACEFUL SEE PAGE 4

s r e t a W

Continuing Through

2 • July 2020 • Morro Bay Life

Making Communities Better Through Print™

Hayley & Nicholas Mattson Co-Publishers

Through Print

making communities better

W

hen we started this fantastic journey into journalism and media more than 10 years ago, we never dreamed we would be here now.

We discussed a dream of creating print publications that celebrated the greatness that fills our wonderful communities. We tucked that idea in our pocket and began working toward the dream.

It’s been an interesting ride that has been anything but a straight line. In fact, the journey has been complete with such inconceivable twists that in hindsight, we are settled with no other answer than it was meant to be — but it was no accident on our part.

What we didn’t realize we were signing up for is the year 2020, as it is currently

being drafted. Of all things, watching the world battle a pandemic and the United States — including our quiet corner of the world — splinter apart along sharp lines.

No matter what a person’s political or social views, the ability and willingness to negotiate and discuss solutions across divides is the height of human genius. Beyond science and engineering, the art of bringing people together is the apex. Not just bringing a group together under a flag, but in bringing opposite sides and multiple flags together under a common goal, despite differences.

And not only in the public forum as performance art but in silent darkness where nothing is seen but the product of sacrifice and compromise.

We dreamed of bringing the community together by presenting the glory of

A reverse mortgage loan could help you Fix up the place.

Reverse mortgage loans may not be for everyone, but they are better than ever—with reduced origination costs and restructured principle limits designed to preserve more of your equity for the future. If you’ve considered reverse mortgages in the past, you owe it to yourself to speak to an experienced professional to see if this innovative, updated financial product is now a good fit for your circumstances.

* Make no monthly mortgage payments * Take proceeds as a line of credit, monthly income or a lump sum.

Or all three. * Use the proceeds as you see fit. * You keep title to your home

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Borrowers must maintain property as primary residence and remain current on property taxes, homeowners insurance and any fees such as homeowner association dues as applicable.

itself in its entirety. Over the 10 years, we worked countless hours with nonprofits, meeting people who helped people who needed help. The cross-section of human beings we encountered ran the spectrum, end to end, and each one inspired us.

Each one is part of our community. Each one is why we publish all our publications, including Morro Bay Life, that is mailed to every mailbox in the area. Each one is why we continue to fight for our dream through the emotional and financial challenges that 2020 has brought to us.

From step to step in this journey, we have been confronted with uncertainty. For us, faith is not an absence of fear, but a journey forward despite all fears. Our journey is a walk-in faith in something that is greater than that which stands in our way. It is not

even such that we know where we are going, but more an understanding that we know what we are supposed to do along the way.

Our declared purpose is to make communities better through print. It is that purpose that drives us to put pen to paper and publish our content.

We continue to do so in this time of massive angst. We do so in faith that despite our human failings, we are fulfilling our commitment to that which was given to us.

Our time and age is unlike anything ever seen, and we are blessed with the challenge of documenting this time for history to look back on — not as prisoners of the moment, but as agents of independence.

We wish you all a safe and healthy Fourth of July.

Morro Bay Life • July 2020 • 3

Making Communities Better Through Print™

Morro Bay Chamber of Commerce

PAGE A monthly showcase of Chamber programming and membership.

3

805.772.4467 info@morrochamber.org morrochamber.org

Housing is Good Business The Morro Bay Chamber of Commerce has delivered a draft document to City officials to express the immediacy of housing as good for business.

Want to get involved?

Get in touch! info@morrochamber.org

Face masks are required by the State of California to be worn in public spaces. Please help keep Morro Bay safe and wear a mask.

Housing in California is a real issue and one that is felt in the community of Morro Bay. Studies by the Economic Vitality Corporation convincingly state that our existing businesses are at risk without more housing, and the economy won’t grow until we build more. That call to “grow” couldn’t be more critical now that our County and City’s budgets have taken a severe hit from the economic crisis caused by our current public health emergency. It would seem that now more than ever, it’s not growth for growth’s sake; it’s growth out of a deficit and back to balance.

The Chamber’s position is that housing is good business. Housing is economic development. We implore the City of Morro Bay to get assertive with facilitating housing construction to diversify our community’s economy. Our City’s Housing Element must be leveraged as a tool that will get us to a resident population with more families, more professionals, and more consumers to take the edge off of our seasonal cliffs. Housing is also the environmental and social equity “silver bullet.” Long commutes create greenhouse gasses.

CITY + COMMUNITY + CHAMBER + BUSINESSES

NOW MORE THAN EVER.

TOGETHER.

The Morro Bay Chamber of Commerce is Here for You and Your Business. Now More Than Ever.

The Chamber has been a champion for the business community from day one and will continue to be a primary resource for information and support during and after this crisis. The Chamber gives businesses a seat at the table not only with local government but also with State policy makers. The Chamber advocates on behalf of businesses and leverages their wide network of leaders and stakeholders for positive outcomes.

Along with many others that have been impacted by COVID-19, the Morro Bay Chamber of Commerce has lost major sources of revenue.

Now, more than ever, our business community needs your commitment. Show your support by being a member of the Chamber.

JOIN, RENEW OR UPGRADE YOUR MEMBERSHIP TODAY! INFO@MORROCHAMBER.ORG

4 • July 2020 • Morro Bay Life

Making Communities Better Through Print™

COMMUNITY FEATURES

June 5 Protest-March Stays Peaceful

By NEIL FARRELL for Morro Bay Life

Street to Embarcadero and then out to Morro Rock and back to the Park. The protest march was peaceful save for one rotests erupting across the nation brief moment on the Embarcadero when over racial injustice and police protestors and counter-protestors briefly use of force came home to roost clashed.

June 5, when about 300 people turned Morro Bay Life asked MBPD Cmdr. out in Morro Bay for a peaceful protest Amy Watkins for information on the inciand march in support of the Black Lives dent and she said, “As the protest march Matter movement. returned to the City Park from the rock, Triggered by the videotaped killing of some protesters were walking along George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minn., by Embarcadero toward the rear of the march a white police officer, some of the nation- and trailing a distance behind the main wide protests held in the ensuing days and group when they were contacted by counter weeks, turned violent and destructive. But protesters. A verbal argument between two not in Morro Bay. males [protester and counter-protester] Organized by Morro Bay resident occurred and officers patrolling along the Nathan Moran, 20, the protest started protest arrived to assist. Both parties sepain City Park with Moran addressing the rated after a brief verbal exchange, and crowd over a bullhorn. Moran said he’d then the protester continued on the route.” lived in Morro And while Bay since he was many protest 4-years old, and signs said things “I’ve never seen like “End Police it show up like Brutality” and this.” He encourWe would like to thank the peaceful protest “Defund the aged everyone to Po l i c e, ” t h e organizers and community members who police departmake his or her voices heard. participated in the event and for exercising ment worked The most with Moran on their rights in safe and constructive manner a safety plan d r a m a t i c moment at City and, along with Park came when Community Moran asked Vo l u n t e e r s , for a moment of protected the silence for 8 minutes and 46 seconds, the marchers along the lengthy route through length of time Floyd was choked by the town and the waterfront. police officer who had his knee pressed “The Morro Bay Police Department,” across his neck, choking off his air and read an announcement from MBPD on its killing him.

Facebook Page, “would like to thank the The moment of silence seemingly lasted peaceful protest organizers and community forever and gave an abundance of time to members who participated in the event reflect on the extent of the torture Floyd this past Saturday for exercising their June 5 protest-march in Morro Bay. Some 300 people turned out to protest for equal went through. rights in safe and constructive manner. justice, against police brutality, and in support of Black Lives Matter.

Moran then led a march down Harbor Overall, it was a peaceful demonstration.” Contributed photos

P

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

EDITOR-AT-LARGE

Hayley Mattson morrobay@13starsmedia.com MANAGING EDITOR

Brian Williams editor@13starsmedia.com

Nicholas Mattson morrobay@13starsmedia.com LAYOUT DESIGN EDITOR Mike Michaud mike@13starsmedia.com

Ad Consultant

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CONTRIBUTORS Jeannette Simpson Contact Us 805.466.2585

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Visit our website! morrobaylifenews.com

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morro bay life is published monthly. all rights reserved , material may not be reprinted without writ ten consent from the publisher . morro bay life made every effort to maintain the accuracy of information presented in this publication , but assumes no responsibilit y for errors , changes or omissions . morro bay life is a product of

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Morro Bay Life • July 2020 • 5

Making Communities Better Through Print™

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6 • July 2020 • Morro Bay Life

r beginning, our business

Making Communities Better Through Print™

BUSINESS

Create a Workspace That Energizes

n people and their

well-being. It’s evident in mes, with decisions focused

in a Zen-like lead to less stress, greater productivity and on-the-job happiness ngWorking term, and environment crucialcould when pictures of your loved ones, your preferred coffee more your style. mug and a favorite pen may be all you need on your desk. Keep other office supplies stashed in Bring On The Light a nearby drawer for easy access.

The best-case scenario is a work environment with an abundance of natural light, which is Streamline Your Computer known to increase health, happiness and producAn organizational system that makes sense tivity. In the absence of windows, however, you to you will help you easily find the reference can create the next best thing with bright lightfile you need and keep your projects on track. ing (not fluorescent). Some people position a When necessary, silence distractions like email lightbox on their desk to increase light exposure and instant messaging so you can focus, or block during the winter months. specific times of the day to do just that. Leverage the tools at your disposal to ensure efficiency Control The Temperature while still being responsive.

Not everyone agrees on the optimal temperature for a work environment, but experts suggest Be Color Savvy that peak productivity usually occurs at about 71 For starters, bland or neutral colors, such as degrees Fahrenheit. Test several temps before white, gray and beige, can be depressing. The landing on the most comfortable and producsame is true of darker colors. But where you go tive option for you. If you work in a corporate from there depends a lot on the type of work office setting where it’s impossible to regulate you do. Workers who want a calm environment the temp, keep a blanket or a favorite mug of generally prefer blues and greens, while indi- tea within arm’s reach. viduals in search of stimulation rely on bright colors, such as yellows, oranges and reds. A Conquer The Noise potted plant or small bouquet of bright, fresh Noise is just that. Noise. While it can be flowers can do wonders to boost your mood. distracting or even irritating, complete silence The same goes for stylish pencil cups and fold- almost never happens. If too much noise disrupts ers instead of bland-looking alternatives, if that’s your concentration, a consistent volume of ambi-

ances become difficult. That ed emphasis on people – SARAH SANTANA COLUMNIST

ts, communities, advisors O ociates – gives us purpose, and a way forward. ver the course of a lifetime, the average person spends more than 90,000 hours working. So, whether you work at home or in an office, it helps to create a pleasant, calm and productive work environment with minimal distractions. Aim to support better work habits and on-the-job happiness with a mix of minimalism and the things that make you happy.

Not sure where to begin? The following tips should help.

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ent background noise could help. White noise machines or noise-canceling headphones may be the office hero you didn’t even know you needed.

Places If the best workspaces are designed to enhance productivity, then it only makes sense to provide a variety of spaces that address different needs.

Meeting with a group? Head to the conference room. Collaborating on an idea? Gather around your standing desk. Need to make a call? There’s a private room for that. Remember that changing positions does the body good. No one likes to sit all day.

Next Steps To set the process in motion, you can: • Lead by example and create a desk space that reflects your ideal work environment.

• Gather ideas from co-workers about potential improvements to common areas.

• Ask your advisor about setting aside some funds for improving your home office.

Sources: businessinsider.com; lifehack.org; rocketspace.com; business.com; entrepreneur.com Raymond James is not affiliated with any other entity listed herein.

Morro Bay Life • July 2020 • 7

Making Communities Better Through Print™

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8 • July 2020 • Morro Bay Life

Making Communities Better Through Print™

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Different Times Call For A Look at Different Options

By JEANETTE SIMPSON for Morro Bay Life

O

the Morro Bay seniors, Gayle was kind enough to respond to their request for some basic information on Reverse Mortgages to pass along to their audience. He explained that the reverse mortgage program is a safe program into which many important safeguards are built. For example, it is not a decision that should or will be made without careful consideration, as each applicant must first complete government-approved counseling. This ensures the homeowner is able to receive all the information, options and obligations they need to make a solid decision.

Throughout the entire process, the homeowner will review things like: • The factors in the formula used to determine the amount

they will qualify for • The three different options available to receive the proceeds • Today’s Reverse Mortgages structures, including growing equity • How and when the mortgage is to be repaid.

ne of the interesting outcomes of trying times is the requirement to think outside of our usual norms to meet challenges and find workable solutions. Gratefully, we are creative and resilient, even when faced with significant obstacles and setbacks.

As we look at our options and concerns and realize that Gayle’s office is in beautiful Morro Bay at 365 Quintana Rd., there is much uncertainty in the economy and employment, but he provides services throughout the county. If you would like many of us are looking at our assets and finances to determore information about the Reverse Mortgage Program and mine our financial security. For those that own a home, how it might work for you, contact Bob Gayle, Reverse Mortone option to consider is the Reverse Mortgage program. gage Consultant at 805-772-3658 or service@reversepro.com For some, there may be a measure of concern regarding the safety of choosing to take advantage of a reverse mortgage program that is likely based on older programs that did not have some of the protections and opportunities that exist today. Where can one turn to get all the latest information to consider a program like this?

Meet Robert “Bob” Gayle, Reverse Mortgage Consultant. Gayle has over 25 years of experience in the field and this is his specialty.

“I began originating reverse mortgages in 1995. Having worked for Wells Fargo, MetLife Bank, and Reverse Mortgage Professionals, I have been involved in over a thousand transactions. I enjoy helping people improve their quality of life. As a Reverse Mortgage Consultant, I specialize in helping retired homeowners supplement their retirement income with a variety of reverse mortgage options,” said Gayle, who offers free consultations that can be conducted in your home, where you’ll get a wealth of information in easy to understand terms.

Gayle explained that his experience is what sets him apart.

“I’ve developed the ability to analyze and structure the right reverse mortgage solution for my clients. My clients have become clients for life because as their needs and circumstances change, they know I’ll always be there for them. They have told me ‘that’s what makes you different Robert ‘Bob’ Gayle is a Reverse Mortgage Consultant with more than 25 years of experience in the field and from others’...a comment I truly appreciate,” he said. this is his specialty. Contributed photo In addition to his many years of specialty experience, he is a member of professional associations such as the American Bankers Association (ABA), Wells Fargo Reverse Mortgage Alumni and the Pete Asmus’ Real Estate Networking Group (Investor Strategies).

He is esteemed by his colleagues, too, as demonstrated by this endorsement on his LinkedIn profile page: “Bob and I have worked together many times in the decade that I have known him. When it comes to reverse mortgages, I know of nobody with the knowledge, background and service record this man has built with hundreds and hundreds of happy clients. Nobody is better with the seniors. Honest as the day is long. I heartily recommend this man if you have a home you’ve pumped equity into, want to make better use of it and meet the guidelines.”

So, who might benefit from knowing more about Reverse Mortgages?

• Seniors looking for extra cash for living, healthcare needs, and education.

• Adult children looking to help their senior parents get in a better financial situation.

• Trusted family, legal and financial advisors (caregivers, attorneys, financial planners, wealth advisors).

In a recent newsletter, “the Morro Scene,” published by

Morro Bay Life • July 2020 • 9

Making Communities Better Through Print™

LOCAL NEWS

City Sets Nov. 3 Election Date

By NEIL FARRELL for Morro Bay Life

T

a councilman before moving up to Mayor re-election. mailed out to every registered voter, and in 2018.

According to City Clerk Dana Swanson, are essentially a candidate’s chance to speak Headding is planning to run again and two people have filed Form 501s — John directly to voters. filed a “Form 501” on July 8, 2019, declarWeiss and Melanie Williams-Mahan.

Candidate statements are limited to 200 ing his intent to run for Mayor.

Contacted by MBL, Weiss, the words and if a candidate wants can also be Once that form is submitted, owner of Coast Electronics translated and printed in Spanish. a candidate can start raising who ran unsuccessfully for This, of course, all costs money, but the money for their campaign.

Mayor in 2018, said he City won’t know how much until the County Davis told Morro Bay was still talking with his Clerk sets the fees, but it’s normally in the Life that he is not ready committee about running hundreds of dollars, not thousands. at this time to announce again and wasn’t ready to If readers are contemplating stepping up whether he will run for a make an announcement. to the plate and taking a leadership role in second term.

The Council also adopted the City, the nomination period runs from McPherson, reached by a second resolution pertain- July 13 through Aug. 7. The filing deadline telephone, said she was not ing to candidates’ statements will be extended to Aug. 12, if an incumready to announce her plans for placed on the Sample Ballots bent does not file. That would apply to the Council seat and Mayor’s seat separately, as they have different terms of office.

Filing involves a nominating petition signed by at least 25 registered voters, plus various other forms that must be filled out dealing with potential conflicts of interest and residency. You must be a registered voter inside the City limits of Morro Bay to run for office and vote in the City election.

he City of Morro Bay is starting preparations for the Nov. 3 general election, when a majority of City Council seats will be contested.

The Council approved the two enabling resolutions setting the election date and method of polling, piggy-backing onto the County’s General Election, including state and federal offices, including voting for President.

The City’s share of the election costs is $16,000, according to a staff report from the City Clerk’s Office.

“Services provided by the County in a consolidated election,” the report said, “include ballot creation, printing, mailing, collection, and counting, voter registration, and voting site operation. The City’s request for consolidation commits to reimbursing the County for its costs associated with consolidation.”

On the ballot in Morro Bay will be the Mayor’s 2-year term, and two, 4-year terms for Council.

Councilwoman Marlys McPherson and Councilman Robert Davis are both up for reelection and so too is Mayor John Headding. Davis and McPherson would be running for their second terms and Headding also would be seeking a second term The seat currently held by Councilmember Marlys McPherson will be up for reelection. as Mayor. He’d previously served 4 years as Contributed photo

Election information will be posted on the City’s website, visit morro-bay.ca.us as the nomination period nears.

And for readers outside the City that may want to run for a seat on a local board, the County elections Office is where that information can be found.

MEMORIAL RUN

Brian Waterbury Memorial Virtual Rock to Pier Run July 1 - 31 STAFF REPORT

D

ue to the continuing uncertainty surrounding the guidelines for COVID-19, the committee announced that they have made the difficult decision to cancel the in-person physical events this year.

However, it will continue virtually!

The annual event brings in participants from all over, so for the safety of all the partakers, the volunteers, and staff, they have made this decision.

This event is very important to the Recreation Department; the proceeds from this event support

the programs.

Without this event, the Recreation Department and the annual race is in jeopardy. That is why it was essential to keep this event in some fashion to allow participants to join the event virtually.

“We are offering a virtual run for the Rock to Pier Run, which is six miles. Registration will include a virtual race packet and bib, as well as a commemorative t-shirt that will be mailed at the beginning of August.” The committee shared on their website.

Since it is a virtual event, you can choose your location, such as a neighborhood, on a treadmill,

or in the park. The run/walk can be completed any time during the month of July, all at once, or do a little every day.

The committee will be using social media to share information, do giveaways, and more. It encouraged to share participation by using the hashtag #BWIrun4rec.

The cost is a $30.00 Race Fee, plus a $3.00 sign-up fee that goes through July 4; on July 5, that cost goes up to $35.00.

For more information or to get involved, visit runsignup.com/Race/ CA/MorroBay/BrianWaterburyMemorialRocktoPierRunandHalfMarathon.

ROCK SOLID STORIES

Rotary Club of Morro Bay Provides Essentials to Locals as a Thank You

By LISA BAHR to help Morro Bay businesses keep Morro Bay Chamber of Commerce their employees and customers safe. mpty grocery shelves and sold As a thank you for supporting the out essentials have provided a club’s 75-year tenure, they are giftseemingly endless source for ing all the Morro Bay businesses that memes, advertising schemes, and have offices, storefronts, and restauSaturday Night Live coronavirus rants a bottle of the hand sanitizer. parodies. Now, businesses are feeling “We were pleased to source the the pressure as they seek to acquire sanitizer locally, thus, helping two sought after essentials while open- more small businesses, which have ing their doors to customers after a manufactured the product,” said lengthy stay-at-home mandate.

Jones.

In an effort to support the local The decorative eight-ounce business community, the service bottle of “Be Well Hand Sanitizer” organization, Rotary Club of Morro is manufactured by the Fable Soap Bay, has stepped up to provide essen- Company of Los Osos, working with tials to those in need. the Bethel Rd Distillery of TempleNewly appointed leadership at ton. the Rotary Club, President-Elect Jeff Member Judy Salamacha was Jones, and President-Elect Nomi- tagged as a distribution manager nee Tim Olivas, suggested imple- for the project. menting the hand sanitizer program “My husband Bob and I deliv-

E

The Rotary Club of Morro Bay is providing hand sanitizer to local businesses to keep their employees and customers safe. Contributed photo

ered the first twelve bottles on a Sunday in early April to test out the program. Businesses were so grateful to receive the sanitizer, surprised it was a gift, and loved the product. It was easy to find members to join in on the delivery process.”

To date, Jeff Jones, Tim Olivas, John Weiss, Jude Long, Elsie Casida, Mike Pond, Nancy Ford-Retchless, and Lorraine Sterkel joined the project delivery team. Nearly 250 bottles have gone out to Morro Bay businesses.

President Jones told members at a recent Zoom general meeting, “We aren’t finished with this project yet! We need to thank Fable Soap Company for donating an additional 24 bottles of sanitizer and 50 bottles of hand lotion for the organization to share with businesses.”

10 • July 2020 • Morro Bay Life

Making Communities Better Through Print™

COUNTY NEWS

County Health Officer Responds to Statewide Order for Face Coverings

STAFF REPORT

R

ecently the COVID-19 case numbers steadily increasing throughout California, Gov. Gavin Newsome issued a statewide order for all people to wear masks starting June 18.

Now the state guidelines explain, “Cloth face coverings help reduce the spread of coronavirus, especially when combined with physical distancing and frequent hand washing. Starting June 18, Californians must wear face coverings in common and public indoor spaces and outdoors when distancing is not possible.”

As a response to the new order, San Luis County Public Health & Safety released a statement explaining that today’s guidance mandates the use of cloth face coverings by the general public statewide when outside the home. With some limited exceptions, including children under the age of two, people who have medi-

cal or mental health conditions that prevent wearing face coverings, and people who are eating or drinking at a restaurant or establishment that offers food or beverages, and others.

“Wearing face coverings can slow the spread of COVID-19 and can potentially stop waves of outbreaks, which helps us continue to reopen our economy fully,” said Dr. Penny Borenstein, County Health Officer. “This requirement offers an additional layer of protection for all of us, especially workers in our favorite places.”

As with previous State Orders, County officials emphasize voluntary compliance. The use of education and reminders on how best to comply with the order will be the first approach with additional enforcement measures taken as warranted.

For more information, you can visit readyslo.com.

SLO County Health Officer Dr. Penny Borenstein backed Gov. Gavin Newsom’s mandate, urging that a mask can slow the spread of COVID-19, which will lead to a faster reopening of the economy. File photo

COVID-19 UPDATE

County to Triple Contact Tracing Team to Help in Fight Against COVID-19 STAFF REPORT

T

he County of San Luis Obispo Public Health Department is expanding its contact tracing team to 24 people, approximately tripling its size, to help in the fight against COVID-19 in local communities.

Trained contact tracers continue to fully investigate all confirmed cases of COVID19 in San Luis Obispo County and their workload is increasing as the number of local cases increase. The number of contacts per case — the people who may have been

exposed to the virus by one person who is sick — have also increased as the community reopens.

“We are working hard to manage the spread of COVID-19 in SLO County,” said Dr. Penny Borenstein, County Health Officer. “If you have been exposed, we will call you and ask you to self-quarantine at home based on when you were exposed.

Help us slow transmission and answer the call to manage the spread.”

Since the pandemic began, the County Public Health Department has traced 100 percent of the confirmed cases in

SLO County. Health officials say they are committed to continuing this level of investigation to protect the community’s health.

Contact tracing is a time-tested public health practice in which trained investigators follow up on each case to identify those who may have been exposed to the disease.

They ask how the patients are doing, issue isolation orders, and help connect them with care and services, if needed.

They then notify those who may have been exposed, without disclosing where or by whom, issue quarantine letters, and

organize free testing and other services if needed. Those at high risk receive daily follow-up calls. Throughout the process, all personal information, including names, is strictly protected.

“We are not calling to enforce any state or local orders. We will never ask about your immigration status, we will never ask for your social security number, and we will never ask for payment,” Dr. Borenstein said. “You can do your part in the fight against COVID-19 by answering your phone if the health department calls and self-quarantining if ill or exposed.”

CITY OF MORRO BAY

City Transitions Morro Bay Cares Program STAFF REPORT

I

put together through a collaboration of the City and a local volunteer base lead by local residents, Marty and Roni Lomeli.

The program later transitioned to the City’s Recreation staff, who have done a fantastic job fielding the various calls, coordinating efforts with volunteers, and serving the Estero Bay community”, said Morro Bay Recreation Services Manager Kirk Carmichael.

“Equally, the time and efforts put forth by our citizen volunteers is a true reflection of the kind and caring people found here in our community.”

If you would like more information on this program or other general information on City programs and efforts to curtail the spread of this disease, please visit our City COVID-19 information page morrobayca. gov/covid19.

n March, the City of Morro Bay announced the Morro Bay Cares program’s launch to help those in greatest need in our community, inform the general community, and reduce the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

Since its inception nearly 100 days ago, city volunteers, Morro Bay CERT (Community Emergency Response Team), have made over 7,500 calls assisting Estero Bay community members with grocery and/or RX needs. As the State moves forward with guidance to return to normal life, the Morro Bay Cares program will be placed on hold until further notice. In the interim, Morro Bay Cares will take the form of Morro Bay Connects with the intent of pairing up those who need help with volunteers in the community. Morro Bay Connects will work to locate volunIf you would like more information about teers and match them with those in need. this topic, please contact Morro Bay Connects “The Morro Bay Cares program was at 805.772.6278.

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After nearly three decades of service, the Coffee Pot Restaurant is closing, enabling owner Gordon Lu, to begin a well-deserved retirement. The restaurant has been a favorite of locals and a draw for visitors from other states and nations eager to meet the author of Double Luck. Amongst the many photos and awards on the restaurant’s walls is an especially valued certificate from the Morro Bay Chamber of Commerce recognizing Gordon as a national treasure. His feelings are the same for his home city and the many customers that have become part of his local family. He is extremely grateful for having had the opportunity to live and work in such a remarkable community. Special thanks to his crew for years of exceptional service.

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Business & Services Directory

Morro Bay Life • July 2020 • 11

Making Communities Better Through Print™

LIFE INTELLIGENCE

Life Intelligence: Black, White, and Blue

VALENTINA PETROVA COLUMNIST

B

uddha’s Second Noble Truth teaches that the root of all suffering is attachment, including attachment to an opinion we continue to hold and defend regardless of information to the contrary. We’d rather fault the information than revise our opinions. Opinions influence perception. Confirmation bias justifies our opinions and reinforces our attachment.

Opinions shape the world we live in. We vote, consume products, adopt lifestyles, and judge others based on our opinions. And we hardly ever change our minds about anything. Thus, our coun-

try is on fire. Fire fueled by anger. Anger justified by opinions. At the center of the unrest – systemic mistreatment of blacks in the hands of out of control police brutality. But is our anger justified?

According to official national statistics, in 1990, the police made more than 14 million total arrests. In 2019, 10.3 million. For the same period, the population of the United States increased by 78 million. Meaning, the police made considerably less arrests in 2019 in absolute numbers and per 100,000 people. Today arrest rates are half of those in 1996. Are we less criminal despite an increase in population, or are changing police policies curbing unnecessary arrests?

In 2019, the police killed 1,004 people, representing 0.01% of all arrests — 370 whites, 235 blacks, and 158 Hispanics. Forty-eight officers died in the line of duty.

It is reasonable to believe that some of the shootings were necessary because bad criminals are a real thing. No doubt, some have been the result of bad cops acting out, but apparently not concerned with the victim’s race. Unless you believe that the 370 whites all deserved it, while

the 235 blacks did not.

“Say their names,” ask BLM protesters, memorializing black victims of police brutality.

Can you remember the name of a single white victim or a police officer killed?

If you only see black people harassed by the police and claims of injustice, you can be forgiven for believing that they are systematically mistreated. But consider that we had a black president(one of the best), and most of the police chiefs you’ve seen on TV from protesting cities have been black, together with black mayors, black senators, black judges, black teachers, black everything, and you’ll have to concede that we have made huge progress including black people in society on equal footing.

Yes, we can do better. No, we can’t ever get it perfect. There will always be random bigots and resists. We cannot expect a utopia. But in the last half a century, we’ve transformed lending laws, housing laws, employment laws, and social norms to ensure non-discrimination and inclusion. Inter-racial marriages, friendships, and work environments are common. Regardless of progress

on racial and police fronts, few acknowledge it.

Jim Crow was prevalent. But is it still?

Police brutality is an ongoing concern, especially in a society that values individual freedom.

But discounting what police does for our benefit and the progress made, demoralizes them and precipitates unjust anger towards them, which hinders their ability to serve and protect.

If you are upset because I contradicted your intuitions, I don’t blame you. We cherish our opinions because they are part of our identity.

The Buddha said, suffering is real and everywhere. To end suffering, we must let go of attachments. How would you feel if you are able to see the world in another way and allow your opinion to shift?

Valentina Petrova has been helping people with life, health, relationships, financial, career, professional, and business challenges since 2015. She has a Master’s in Psychology and is a certified Life Coach.

You can reach her at val@valentinapetrovaconsult-

ing.com.

AGRICULTURE

Supporting Local Farmers During COVID-19

By HAYLEY MATTSON of Morro Bay Life

T

he North County Farmers’ Market Association (NCFMA) brings us four local markets every week, year-round, even during COVID-19 since 1985. As with any other small business during this unprecedented time, it has not been without its challenges.

NCFMA Market Manager Robyn Gable has worked extremely hard over the last few months along with her assistant Aisha Hernandez, to ensure that all four markets were able to stay open.

“It has been more difficult than you would know to keep the markets open during these times,” Gable said. “We take all precautions to be sure that our farmers and the shoppers are safe. It is important to have a place that the farmers can sell their produce, so we have done whatever it takes to keep it going.”

Over the last few months, they have implemented policies and procedures to ensure the markets are as safe as possible, and with it being outdoors, it is one of the best places to shop for your produce.

“It is important to support our Farmer’s markets,” Gable shared, “it allows for

the community to support the farmers and or waiting in line. our local economy, and it is usually more 3. Sanitizing regularly is highly recomnutritious.” mended: Please bring your own; however, Most shoppers would agree when you’re each vendor may have sanitizer at their able to chat with the farmer growing your booth, and it is recommended to sanitize food; it creates a deeper appreciation of that your hands between every transaction. product as well as a sense of community. 4. Be aware of your surroundings and be Farmers grow crops to support themselves respectful of others: Everyone is feeling and their families, but also to nourish and stress right now, but we are all in this support you. together. Following these recommenda“We have loyal farmers and shoppers and tions will not last forever, but they will want to do what is best for everyone, we help you get fresh local produce safely follow state guidelines as outlined by the and efficiently while protecting your San Luis County Health Officer,” Gable safety and others. told us, “we will adjust and mold to what 5. Thank your essential local farmers and comes next to keep the markets going.” vendors. During this incredibly chalHere are a few recommendations to lenging time, our local farmers’ markets keep in mind when shopping at your local have been able to continue to bring market to keep yourself and others safe our community local, sustainable food. while supporting our local growers and They work the frontlines to keep our vendors. community fed. Small farms and 1. Health and Safety: At this time, due businesses matter now more to state orders, it is required to wear a than ever. Being able to invest face mask. Be sure not to visit the local and strengthen our local econmarkets if you are not feeling well. Bring omy during this time of crisis hand sanitizer and your own cloth bag is imperative. Please be safe, be to place items in. well, and be kind.

2. Maintain a social distancing: To care for others and yourself, it is recommended to keep six feet distance while shopping

NCFMA Market Manager Robyn Gable and her assistant Aisha Hernandez at Templeton Farmers Market. Contributed photo

LOCAL FARMERS MARKETS BAYWOOD/LOS OSOS Mondays 2 to 4:30 p.m.

ATASCADERO: Wednesdays 3 to 6 p.m.

TEMPLETON: Saturdays 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

FOR DIRECTIONS AND MORE INFORMATION, VISIT

northcountyfarmersmarkets.com

12 • July 2020 • Morro Bay Life

Making Communities Better Through Print™

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