Morro Bay Life • July 2021 by 13 Stars Media

JULY 2021 • MORROBAYLIFENEWS.COM

HAPPY Life, Liberty & the Pursuit of Happiness INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

CALIFORNIA MID-STATE FAIR

CELEBRATES 75TH ANNIVERSARY PAGE 8

TASTE OF AMERICANA — DELICIOUS SUMMER BBQ-ING PAGE 11

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

GIVES AWAY 33RD FREE CAR PAGE 4

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

MORRO BAY LIONS CLUB

2 • July 2021 • Morro Bay Life

Making Communities Better Through Print™

ummer Solstice has past and the warm summer months are upon us. This year most of our 4th of July Celebrations are back in full swing after the state of California officially reopened after 15 long months of lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic. It is a beautiful thing to see businesses collaborate and support one another. You can see this in action by checking out the Morro Bay Chamber. Erica Crawford and her team have gone over and beyond throughout the pandemic, helping bring awareness to local businesses with Property Walks and Talks, Shop, Sip and Strolls, and so much more. Now that California is open, it is so wonderful to see everyone’s smiling faces! Be sure to visit for more information at morrobaychamber.org. One of the main events that keep San Luis Obispo County thriving is the California Mid-State Fair. After the devastating hit last year having to cancel the annual event, the committee and the Board of Directors have worked tirelessly to bring the community and beyond a fair, for all to enjoy! And who are we kidding? Just getting out and seeing people’s smiling faces, laughing, and making new memories will be enough for most of us. It has been quite the journey this last year and a half. We cannot understate the losses we faced as a community. We are all excited at some level to return to activity we consider normal, yet realistic that we live in uncertain times. With that, we also have our most trusted and stable resources nearby. The past year tested the network of friends, family, and community members we have relied on for our hierarchy of needs. Even the most secure among us should have seen some areas in need of improvement. Let’s take a dedicated and honest effort to shore up those areas that will make our lives more stable and secure and more prepared for crises in the future. Last year was as much a lesson in physiological needs as ~Abraham Lincoln a test of relationships and connectivity. We celebrate Independence Day on Sunday, but we are interdependent on our network connections and relationships that make our world go around. As always, when celebrating and enjoying your life, be safe, sane, and cherish every moment.

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Hayley & Nicholas Mattson hayley@13starsmedia.com

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Jen Rodman

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Cami Martin office@13starsmedia.com

CONTRIBUTORS Barbie Butz

In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count, but the life in your years.

Daniel Rich James Brescia, Ed.D Neil Ferrell Sarah Santana Valentina Petrova Contact Us 805.466.2585

We hope you enjoy this month’s issue of Morro Bay Life. Much love, N ic and Hayley

bay life made every effort to maintain the accuracy of information presented in this publication , but assumes no responsibility for errors , changes or omissions . morro bay life is a product of 13 stars media .

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Through Print

making communities better

Morro Bay Life • July 2021 • 3

Making Communities Better Through Print™

congratulations Putting a Spotlight on Businesses The Morro Bay Chamber of Commerce is putting a spotlight on local businesses who are working hard and adapting to the ever-changing environment. Spotlight Businesses are nominated and selected by fellow business owners in Morro Bay as a standout business with exceptional ownership.

If you know of a business or non-profit that deserves a spotlight, please send your nomination to our Ambassador’s Committee for review by emailing Lynsey Hansen at lynsey@morrochamber.org.

Business spotlights recognize Chamber member businesses that provide a consistent, positive customer experience, are actively engaged in the community and demonstrate resilience during challenging times. This month we’re highlighting four businesses that have proven to be good role models for how to keep employees and customers safe during the pandemic, and have gone to extraordinary measures to keep their doors open.

Please help us CONGRATULATE these businesses on their spotlight award by visiting their establishments, purchasing their products or services, and leaving good reviews online.

A Message from the Chairman I write to offer a message of hope and optimism after such a long and challenging period of time for our community members, many of whom are themselves also employers and employees in local establishments. I own a transactional business Downtown and I am thrilled to hear my cash register ringing again, my employees negotiating their schedules, and to see my customers shaking hands and smiling at one another. Crisis can often define us. I’m proud to be a life-long member of this community that came together to weather the dark clouds of COVID-19. I’m proud to be leading the Morro Bay Chamber’s Board of Directors in 2021, a group of volunteer business owners and operators who banded together during the pandemic to ensure we were providing information and resources that would keep Morro Bay’s economic vitality intact as much as possible - and poised for rapid recovery. I’m delighted to share my stoke with you and to share in the Chamber’s proclamation that

Morro Bay is Back, and Better than Ever! Onward and upward!

Tim Cowan Morro Bay Chamber Board Chair, 2021

Commercial Real Estate Finder on Chamber Website Scholarships Awarded to MBHS Students! Each year the Chamber is honored to recognize outstanding young people getting ready to make their way in the world as young adults. 2021 was no different. Thanks to the work of Scholarship Committee Members Jayne Engle Allen, Judy Mahan and Sophia Tolle, the Chamber’s full Board of Directors awarded three scholarships to three truly deserving bright stars at Morro Bay High School. Congratulations Joshua-Rene Mamaradlo Estrada, Patience Beauchemin, and Bohden Pace. And special thank you to Poppy Boutique that generously sponsored one of these scholarship awards completely.

We’re Are you looking for a second retail space or know someone who wants to open a business in Morro Bay?

Check out our available commercial real estate page on the Chamber website. Click on each profile for additional information about the property and contact information to learn more. www.morrochamber.org/marketspace/

4 • July 2021 • Morro Bay Life

Making Communities Better Through Print™

MORRO BAY LIONS CLUB

Lions Club Gives Away 33rd Free Car

Malia Neves, center, holds the keys to her 2001 Pontiac Vibe that she was given by the Morro Bay Loins Club through its ‘Car Give-Away Program.’ Also pictured are Lion’s members involved in the program. Photos by Neil Farrell

Morro Bay resident Malia Neves awarded keys to a 2001 Pontiac Vibe By NEIL FARRELL for Morro Bay Life MORRO BAY — A Morro Bay woman who works with the local senior nutrition program was the 33rd person to receive a free car in the Morro Bay Lions Club’s “Car Give-Away Program.” Malia Neves, who has lived in Morro Bay for the past 25 years, took the keys to a 2001 Pontiac Vibe at a brief ceremony Saturday, Jun. 19. “I guess they would call me a local,” joked Neves. She explained that 6-months ago, she started volunteering for the “Meals that Connect” program, which used to be the Meals on Wheels senior nutrition program. After six months, she said, “They asked me if I would work as a site manager, and I said, ‘Sure.’” She was interviewed last February and hired. She’s currently a site manager in training, “until I have my own wheels.” Currently, Neves works at the Morro Bay Community Center and temporarily in Cambria, Los Osos, and the Anderson Hotel in San Luis Obispo, where they serve over 170 meals every day. Neves explained that she used to work in the San Simeon-Cambria area and decided on a career change. “I wanted to do something to give back to the community,” she explained. “I figured seniors needed help, so I started there.” Lions Club President Chuck Stoll, who helps oversee the program along with Lion Bill Todd, said since the club became involved in 2017, they’ve given away over $100,000 in vehicles to qualifying people who needed transportation. The program works in conjunction with Sharon O’Leary of the Community Resource Connections, which screens applicants for the program. Todd, who with his son, Mike Todd, started the program in 2014, handles the purchase of vehicles,

and they work on them too, fixing anything wrong so that people get a car that runs perfectly. He said the vehicle Neves received was top-notch, despite its age. “It’s based on a Toyota Matrix,” Todd said of the Pontiac Vibe. It has the same drive train, engine, and frame but with a Pontiac body. He said he and another Lion member, Sean McBride drove to Sacramento to buy it after he found it on Craig’s List. A friend of his who lives near Sacramento went and looked at it first and confirmed it was a good one. “It’s a sweet car,” Todd said. “It’s getting harder and harder to find good cars. I combed Craig’s List for a long time.” Todd shared that O’Reilly’s Auto Parts and Auto Zone donated some $300 in parts, and he and his son Mike went through the Vibe. They even smog-checked it. Stoll, who was the Chamber of Commerce’s 2020 Citizen of the Year, said one of the criteria for the program is that the person has to give back to the community. “One major criteria is exactly what Malia represents,” Stoll said. “She’s exactly who we’re looking for.” He added that the program is getting expensive because prices for used cars have gone up greatly if you can find one. “They’re up 25 percent,” Stroll said. “When people donate a car, we give them fair market value as a donation to write off.” The Lions Foundation, through which the program runs, is a certified non-profit, tax-exempt organization, and donations, including money, are tax-deductible. Todd said sometimes they get cars donated that they don’t really want to use, like recently when they got a 2001 BMW station wagon donated. He said they sold it and used the money for the program. “BMWs are expensive to repair,” he said. “This [the Vibe] is a Toyota Matrix and easy to repair. That’s why we choose these versus European cars; it costs less to repair them.” Recipients must pledge to keep up the maintenance and insurance on their cars. The quarterly car giveaway is just one of several programs the Morro Bay Lions Club, which began in 1945, is currently involved in. They also are major sponsors of the free Monday

Night Community Dinners held at the Vet’s Hall. They sponsor in conjunction with the Food Bank, the monthly free food giveaway, held the third Wednesday of every month from 9:30 to10:30 a.m. at the Vet’s Hall. This year, the club awarded seven scholarships to Morro Bay High seniors, and they also support Del Mar Elementary School’s educational needs. They provide eye exams and glasses for local needy students and adults and annual eye screenings at Del Mar, Baywood, and Monarch Grove schools in Morro Bay and Los Osos. They help sponsor the City of Morro Bay’s Annual Free Thanksgiving Dinner at the Community Center, and they sponsor a girls’ softball team through the rec department. They also help with the Christmas visit of Santa Claus. They volunteered to help with the 2017 and 2019 Amgen Tour of California Bike Race when it came to town and provide financial assistance to the Community Resource Connections. And they’ve also taken part in the City’s annual Fourth of July celebrations. They have a new program collecting aluminum cans, plastic, and glass bottles from local families and merchants and redeem them for cash to support the club’s programs. That recycling program helped pay for Neves’ car, Todd said. They also support other service groups, like the Morro Bay Open Space Alliance, Morro Bay in Bloom, the Maritime Museum, Natural History Museum, the Boy Scouts, the Noor Foundation, and the annual Cayucos Lost Sea Memorial Ceremony. If readers find themselves, for whatever reason, with an extra car, they can donate it to the Lions program by calling Todd’s Garage (805)772-1985. If readers need a car or know a worthy person who needs reliable transportation, they should contact the Community Resource Connections at (805)225-1991 or via email at cmbcrc225@gmail.com. Applying for a car entails filling out a form and an interview with organizers. The Lions Club gives away a car every three months.

Morro Bay Life • July 2021 • 5

Making Communities Better Through Print™

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6 • July 2021 • Morro Bay Life

Making Communities Better Through Print™

COVID-19 UPDATE

SLO County COVID-19 News Briefings End OSHA revises COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standards STAFF REPORT SAN LUIS OBISPO — After over a year of press briefings held by Dr. Penny Borenstein, the County announced that all future COVID-19 News Briefings have been canceled. Instead, Dr. Borenstein will provide an update on COVID-19 in San Luis Obispo County to the County Board of Supervisors. Future briefings and Board of Supervisors updates will be scheduled on an as-needed basis. If an emergent need arises and a news briefing becomes necessary, the County will distribute a media advisory to media outlets with specific, timely information. Please see the upcoming schedule below for clarity. For updates on COVID-19 in SLO County, visit ReadySLO.org or RecoverSLO.org/ vaccine. On Jun. 16, the day after ushering in the state’s full reopening at Universal Studios Hollywood, Governor Gavin Newsom today visited Six Flags Magic Mountain, highlighting more attractions Californians can look forward to revisiting this summer as the state turns to post-pandemic life. The Governor announced that California is partnering with Six Flags Entertainment

Corporation to provide 50,000 free tickets – a $4.5 million value – to Californians who receive at least their first dose of the COVID19 vaccine at participating providers starting on Jun. 16, while supplies last. The ticket giveaway, donated by Six Flags, is part of California’s historic Vax for the Win program and will support vaccination efforts in areas heavily impacted by the pandemic. “We’re fully reopening California’s economy, but we’re not letting up on our efforts to get more Californians vaccinated – especially in our hardest-hit communities – so we can all safely get back to the activities and places we love, including our state’s iconic landmarks,” said Governor Newsom. “Getting every eligible Californian vaccinated is how we maintain our incredible progress and bring our state roaring back from this pandemic.” As of Jun. 15, the state has eliminated pandemic-related restrictions that have been in place over the past year, including physical distancing, capacity limits, county tier systems, and mask requirements in just about all settings. On Jun. 17, following a vote by the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board to adopt revised COVID-19 Prevention Emergency Temporary Standards that reflect the state’s latest COVID-19 public health order, Governor Gavin Newsom signed an executive order enabling the revisions to take effect without the normal 10-day review period by the

Office of Administrative Law – providing clarity and consistency for employers and employees as California fully reopens its economy. Among other updates, Cal/OSHA’s revisions align with the latest guidance from the California Department of Public Health – based on guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – on face coverings and eliminate physical distancing requirements, except for certain employees during outbreaks. Unless they show symptoms, fully vaccinated employees do not need to be offered testing or be excluded from work after close contact with a COVID-19-positive person. Ensuring workplaces throughout the state have consistent guidance as California officially

SMART CASE UPDATE

AWARDS

Smart Case Preliminary Hearing Will Not Be Live-Streamed A third pre-preliminary hearing canceled for Jun. 23 By CAMILLE DEVAUL of Morro Bay Life SAN LUIS OBISPO — The second pre-preliminary hearing for Paul Flores (44) and Ruben Flores (80) was held on Mon. Jun., 21 at 1:30 p.m. in the San Luis Obispo County Superior Court Department Seven. The Honorable Judge Craig Van Rooyen is residing. On Apr. 21, Paul Flores plead not guilty to the murder of Kristin Smart. The sheriff ’s office alleges he killed the Cal Poly freshman in 1996 while trying to rape her. On the same day, Paul’s father, Ruben Flores, pleaded not guilty for accessory after the fact to the murder of Kristin Smart. Paul Flores is being held with no bail. Late at night on Apr. 21, Ruben Flores was released on bail from the county jail. Susan Flores, Paul’s mother and Ruben’s estranged wife, posted bail and picked up Ruben from jail. Ruben Flores was released on a $50,000 bail and on the contingency of giving authorities his passport and complying with electronic monitoring and an ankle monitor. The pre-preliminary hearings are typically only a few minutes and determine if both parties are ready to move forward with the set preliminary hearing date. However, during today’s hearing, the court decided whether or not cameras will be allowed in the courtroom during the preliminary hearing.

All sides confirmed the Jul. 6 preliminary hearing start date. Dan Laidman provided a briefing from KSBY and NBC News requesting the allowance of audio and visual coverage of the proceedings. “This is a case that for decades has gripped this community and the nation at large, and people are following it not just for the underlying facts of the case but for what it means for the criminal justice system and how it handled the case,” said Laidman. Robert Sanger, Paul Flores’s attorney, requested no electronic media coverage, including cameras, but he does not intend to deprive the public of the right to be present at a public hearing. Harold Mesick, Ruben Flores’s attorney, seconded Sanger’s opposition but added no further comment. The court will not be live streaming the proceedings. However, the hearing will be live in person, and there will be room for media, family, and the public. Judge van Rooyen declines live streaming to ensure the selection of a fair and unbiased jury and the privacy rights of the witnesses. At least one witness has expressed to their attorney fear of being followed

moves Beyond the Blueprint, the Governor’s order waives the 10-day review process by the Office of Administrative Law. The emergency regulations will take effect upon their filing with the Secretary of State. With over 40 million vaccines administered and amongst the lowest case rates and transmission rates in the nation, the state fully reopened on Jun. 15, eliminating pandemic-related restrictions that have been in place over the past year. Initially implemented last November, the COVID-19 Emergency Temporary Standards remain an essential component of the state’s ongoing response, providing balanced worker protections that support California’s continued progress in recovering from the pandemic.

and harassed following the preliminary hearing. Media will be allowed one still camera and one video camera under the agreement of no photos of witnesses or the audience. Deputy District Attorney Christopher Peuvrelle requested another pre-preliminary hearing on Jun. 28. Because van Rooyen will be out of the office that week, another pre-preliminary hearing was scheduled for Wednesday, Jun. 23 at 1:30 p.m. in Department 5. Sanger was concerned over the reason for the pre-preliminary hearing. DDA Peuvrelle told Sanger the reason is in an email that was sent to Sanger. Attorney Guy Galambos, representing one of the witnesses, appeared to file a motion to quash a subpoena. Peuvrelle scheduled a discussion for the morning of Jul. 6. Sanger then requested to have a brief chambers meeting following today’s hearing. The next pre-preliminary hearing was scheduled for Wed. Jun. 23 at 1:30 p.m. in Department 5, however, was canceled without notice. The preliminary hearing is scheduled to start on Jul. 6.

Pear Valley Vineyards Named CCWC Winery of the Year 2021 Central Coast Wine, Vinegar, and Spirits Competition Winners

as the 2021 Winery of the Year. The Paso Robles winery had 20 entries with four best of class awards, four double golds, and five golds. This is the first Winery of the Year honor for Pear Valley. STAFF REPORT The Central Coast Spirits CompePASO ROBLES — The Cali- tition featured 60 total classes with fornia Mid-State Fair is pleased to 13 companies and 35 total entries. announce the winners of the 19th Best of Show/Best of Class Whiskey annual Central Coast Wine CompeStark Spirits, Pasadena, tition (CCWC), the Central Coast Peated Single Malt Spirits Competition (CCSC), and Best of Class Amaro the Central Coast Vinegar CompePendray’s Distillery, Templeton, tition (CCVC). The blind-tasting Amaro event was held on Jun. 15 through the Best of Class Gin 17 at the Paso Robles Event Center. Tin City Distillery, Paso Robles, This is the largest wine competition Classic Gin on California’s Central Coast, which Best of Class Rye encompasses ten counties stretching Krobar Craft Distillery, Paso from Alameda to Ventura. Robles, 100 percent Rye This year’s competition included Best of Class Vodka 94 wineries and 508 wines entered. Azeo, Paso Robles, Vodka The competition features 62 classes The Central Coast Vinegar based on grape varieties and vintages, Competition featured four brands where the “Best of “ wines are selected with 11 total entries in 11 classes for their varietal typicity, quality, and based on varieties. character. Best of Show/Best of Barrel Aged Best of Show/Best of Red Kismet Refining Company, Carol Shelton Wines, Santa Rosa, Escondido, Black Garlic Balsamic 2019 Coquille Rogue Best of Class Flavored Best Dessert Kismet Refining Company, Halter Ranch, Paso Robles, Escondido, Hibiscus 2019 Vin De Paille Best of Class Infused Best Sparkling Broken Clock Vinegar Works, Robert Hall, Paso Robles, Solvang, Chardonnay 2019 Cavern Select and Lavender Sparkling Grenache Blanc Best of Class Other Fruit Best Rose Aris Vinegar, Paso Robles, Vina Robles Vineyards and Pomegranate Winery, Paso Robles, “The Central Coast produces 2020 Ros Huerhuero Vineyard extraordinary wines, spirits, and vineBest White gars, and we are proud to be able to Bushong Vintage Company, showcase several of the best. We look Paso Robles, forward to displaying these winning 2020 Spanish Castle Queen entries during the 2021 CaliforThe Central Coast Wine Compe- nia Mid-State Fair,” said Colleen tition named Pear Valley Vineyards Bojorquez, Interim CEO.

Morro Bay Life • July 2021 • 7

Making Communities Better Through Print™

UNEMPLOYMENT

EDD to Resume Work Search Requirement to Obtain Benefits Assistance Available to Help Connect Californians with Suitable Careers STAFF REPORT SACRAMENTO — As California reopens following the pandemic, the Employment Development Department (EDD) announced that starting Jul. 11, Californians receiving unemployment benefits should begin looking for work to maintain their eligibility. EDD will be sending notices to claimants to inform them of the reinstatement of this requirement and what it means for them. “California offers many resources to help people to find safe and suitable careers and training opportunities that keep the economy moving,” said EDD Director Rita Saenz. “We want to make sure those on unemployment have enough lead time to start searching for work so they can remain eligible for benefits as they seek their next career opportunity.” The requirement to search for work has been a part of the unemployment insurance program since its inception. During the pandemic, the federal government temporarily allowed states to waive this requirement, and since March 2020, the work search requirement has been suspended in California. When claimants were asked if they had looked for work when completing their weekly certification for benefits, they could answer “No” and maintain their eligibility for benefits. As California reopens, most claimants will need to answer “Yes” next month to maintain eligibility. EDD offers many services to assist people looking for safe and suitable work and get training. That includes the CalJOBS online labor exchange system, as well as the job search assistance, resume and interview preparation, and

access to job training available through America’s Job Center of California (AJCC) locations throughout the state. CalJOBS is a no-cost virtual job center with hundreds of thousands of job postings and tools to help people find work. It is also an excellent resource where employers can post job openings and find qualified job seekers to fill their positions. CalJOBS includes over a million job listings from dozens of private job boards and recruitment sites, Fortune 1,000 companies, educational institutions, thousands of local, state, and federal agencies, hundreds of healthcare organizations, and many more public, private and non-profit employers. Work Search Requirement for Unemployment Insurance Claimants on regular unemployment or extension claims are expected to search for work in order to maintain eligibility for benefits. This

requirement applies to finding suitable work that is safe to return to and is comparable to the worker’s skills, experience, usual occupation, age, and health. EDD will be sending notices to claimants in the coming weeks about any requirements on their specific claims. Individuals starting new claims on or after Jul. 11 will also be notified by mail that they must register on CalJOBS—the largest job board in California. Examples of reasonable efforts to search for suitable work each week include activities such as: • Prepare for Job Searches – Set up an account on CalJOBS, participate in reemployment services, post a profile on various job search or networking sites. • Expand Networks – Let friends, prior employers, or community members know you are looking for work. Participate in network-

ing, job fair events, or clubs. • Apply for Suitable Work – Apply for positions with employers reasonably expected to have suitable openings matching skills and experience, including government jobs and exams. • Participate in Training – Engage in permissible education and training opportunities that assist in obtaining employment and do not interfere with an ability to accept suitable full-time work. Claimants who engage in any of these activities can answer “Yes” to the question “Did you look for work?” that is asked every two weeks when certifying for benefits. A person who answers “No” will be asked further questions and may be scheduled for an interview to determine benefit eligibility for that time period. Visit Work Sharing Program for more information.

ast month we announced our Inaugural Readers Poll winners that were chosen by you, our readers; however, due to a technical error, we printed the second-place winner for the following category instead of the first place winner. Without further ado, the first place winner for 2021 Best of Morro Bay is:

BEST OPTOMETRIST AND EYE CARE IS:

K Morro Bay Optometry

The Best of Morro Bay celebrates all the winners chosen by local readers of Morro Bay Life. A colossal thank you to all of our dedicated readers for voting for your favorite businesses throughout Morro Bay in our First Annual Best of Morro Bay Reader’s Poll! Thank you for being the

BEST OF 2021

thank

Morro Bay Optometry wants to thank our wonderful patients for trusting us with all of their Eyecare needs!

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST

Optometrist & Eye Care Center in Morro Bay!

590 HARBOR STREET  MORRO BAY, CA 805.772.1269 MorroBayOptometry.com

8 • July 2021 • Morro Bay Life

Making Communities Better Through Print™

GOVERNMENT

Supervisors Approve Holding Cannabis Tax Rate

County of SLO recognizes June 19 as Juneteenth By MELISSA MATTSON of Morro Bay Life SAN LUIS OBISPO — The San Luis Obispo Board of Supervisors held a regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, Jun. 22 at 9 a.m. This was the first in-person meeting since COVID-19 restrictions began, and remote participation will no longer be conducted. Cheryl Vines of the NAACP received the resolution recognizing Saturday, Jun. 19 as Jun.teenth in the County of San Luis Obispo in person from Supervisor Bruce Gibson. Items 10 and 22 were pulled from the consent agenda for a separate vote. Item 10 was Salinan Tribe of San Luis Obispo and Monterey Counties. Supervisor Dawn OrtizLegg moved approval of item 10 with the amendment to the verbiage to include the Salinan Tribe of San Luis Obispo and Monterey Counties. The motion passed 4-0, with Supervisor Arnold abstaining from the vote. Item 22; Request to approve a contract with Rincon Consultants, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $244,668 to prepare an Environmental Impact Report for the proposed Paso Basin Land Use Planting Ordinance, contingent on adoption of the Fiscal Year 2021-22 Recommended Budget. Supervisor Gibson pulled this item to state that he is of the opinion that the item is a mistake. Supervisor Debbie Arnold made a motion to approve the item. She referenced the emergency ordinance from 2014, which stopped certain agricultural businesses, which she feels is unfair, and that this item will create a more fair distribution for Paso Robles. The item passed 4-1, with Supervisor Gibson in opposition. The remaining consent agenda passed 5-0. Dr. Penny Borenstein, County Public Health Officer, spoke on the 68 new cases over the last few weeks and that COVID is not gone but that no deaths have occurred in over a month. She highlighted the changes that have occurred since Jun. 15 and California no longer having occupancy restrictions on indoor dining. Businesses should still refer to Cal/OSHA for guidance. At this time, there is no requirement in the State of California for anyone to have a vaccination record as proof of vaccination aside from indoor events over 5000 attendees. During the public comment period Supervisor, John Peschong brought up the resignation of County Clerk-Recorder and making the hiring of the position an open and transparent process. County Staff indicated the intention in the meantime to recognize Deputy Helen Nolan for the position. The matter was decided that it should be brought up at the next meeting to begin the application process. Peschong went on to request the addition of items to future agendas, including the redistricting of California in which at one time the division of SLO county was discussed, to require an economic study to identify fiscal and economic impacts of proposed ballot measures and a resolution regarding the historical and religious rights of the Salinan Tribe of San Luis Obispo and Monterey

County, which were all agreed to be added to future agendas. Chairperson Lynn Compton spoke on the issue of overnight RV parking and the hope to put up signage, which was decided that it would need to amend an ordinance to do so and would come back in Aug. Wade Horton spoke briefly in honor of Guy Savage, who is retiring after 18 years. The budget was addressed next, with staff recommendations to formally close the 202122 budget hearing, and approve the resolution adopting the budget, as well as approving the resolution adoption the position allocation list. The motion passed 5-0, though Gibson did express his dismay in the budget, but to support the county did not vote against it. Item 39 was the presentation of the county’s public information website for the 2021 redistricting process. The public can participate in the process by creating groups and district map suggestions for the county to view. Those who wish to participate can do so at slocounty. ca.gov/redistricting. Staff also recommended special meetings in response to meeting the state-mandated deadlines. Supervisor Gibson moved to approve, and the motion passed 5-0. Item 40 was a request to award a fouryear contract to private attorney firm San Luis Obispo Defenders, a Professional Law Corporation, in the amount of $4,920,401 for the first year, which was presented by Guy Savage. The last contract was 2016 to 2020, with an interim contract through 2021, while the county went through an RFP. Chairperson Compton thanked staff for their work on this and requested that there be a report on the cases and other pertinent information before the Board twice a year, as well as to authorize the Board to execute up to two additional years. The motion passed 5-0. There was no report on closed session, and the Board moved on to the final item, 42: Submittal of the 2021 Countywide Cannabis Program Update, and request to approve, in concept, the Compliance Monitoring Program Plan and provide staff direction as deemed necessary. The report covered the application process, compliance monitoring, appropriate uses of land for cannabis, the budget involved, illegal cannabis enforcement, and the Cannabis Business Tax. The Cannabis Business Tax (Measure B18), which is a gross receipts tax, and has brought in $434,000 so far this year. Difficulties with the taxation process were expressed, and square footage was a proposed substitute for taxation. Public comment expressed the varying views of residents in the county and highlighted some needs, such as conducting a programmatic Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and freezing the tax rates so that the industry can grow and stabilize before taxation increases. The Board passed the Programmatic EIR with direction to staff to provide funding that does not put the cost on the taxpayer. The five-year review period once operations begin was approved with a 5-0 vote. The Board also approved the holding of the Cannabis Tax rate at 6 percent. The approval came in a special meeting on Jun. 25, with a 4-1 vote, with Supervisor Arnold in opposition. The fee study was approved with the request to look at a square foot rate instead of the rate of the gross receipts. The next regular meeting will be Tuesday, Jul. 13 at 9 a.m. The links for the meeting and the agenda when it becomes available can be found on the county’s website at slocounty.ca.gov/Departments/Board-ofSupervisors/Board-Meetings,-Agendasand-Minutes.aspx.

MID-STATE FAIR

t i a W t ’ n a C ! u o Y e e S to

California Mid-State Fair Celebrates 75th Anniversary

‘Can’t-Wait to See You!’ theme for this year’s event fitting due to the times By CAMILLE DEVAUL of Morro Bay Life SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY — On Jul. 21, the California Mid State Fair kicks off its 75th Anniversary! It has been nearly two years since Paso Robles put their boots on for “The Biggest Little Fair Anywhere” due to the coronavirus pandemic. Back in February, the CMSF Board of Directors said they were “cautiously optimistic” on whether or not the fair would happen in 2021. But on May 12, the CMSF announced they would be back in Jul. 2021 and said they are getting ready to make up for lost time as they will be celebrating their 75th Anniversary a year later due to COVID-19. CMSF spokesman Tom Keffury expressed the difficulty of planning the fair with so many changing regulations put forth by the State of California. “One week, you put together a certain type of plan, and you get your head around it thinking okay this is what the fair might look like, and then something would change,” Keffury explained. In May, California seemed to change its plan and begin reopening rapidly. That was when the CMSF board decided to go through with their plan to make the fair happen. Interim CEO Colleen Bojorquez said, “It’s been a rollercoaster ride of emotion. We have always wanted to do, at least, the livestock portion, so we were trying to figure out how we were going to support our 4-H and FFA

and how they can show in person.” Since then, the CMSF board has had about six weeks to put together their finalized plan. “We had a lot of different ideas, but they were all based on what we thought might happen--I don’t think anybody thought California would open up as quickly as California had,” Bojorquez shared. Of course, planning a fair that usually takes six months and doing it in only six weeks has its challenges. “With people not expecting California to be open, a lot of entertainers and a lot of performers already made plans for the summer to be in other parts of the country,” Keffury said. According to Keffury, the CMSF accounts for nearly 90 percent of the event centers profits, so canceling the fair was detrimental for the center and Paso Robles local economy. “We need to have the fair. We need to have our events back, and we are ready to welcome them with open arms,” Bojorquez explained. The CMSF will be following State and County guidelines for COVID-19 regulations. “We’re going to operate, but we’re going to operate safely. That is very important to us,” said Keffury. Bojorquez and Keffury explained fairgoers will see all the events they are used to seeing, just maybe at a smaller capacity. Because of California’s unexpected and rapid reopening, some vendors and entertainers made plans in other states during the CMSF’s usual time slot. But that hasn’t stopped the fair board from putting on the best fair they can. “It will be a lot of fun to see a lot of people come out and support and support our fair, which is great because we feel like we have this little niche in our community that only our community can appreciate,” Bojorquez said. Keffury says, “We can’t wait to see you. We’re going to put on the best fair we can—We’re excited to bring the community together.” So San Luis Obispo County, dust off your boots and get ready for some good ole fashion fun that is long overdue! We can’t wait to see you! For more information and show, times visit midstatefair.com.

Morro Bay Life • July 2021 • 9

Making Communities Better Through Print™

RENEWABLE WEALTH

Wind and Solar:

Surf a Wave of Change

SARAH SANTANA COLUMNIST

Cost-saving innovations and new interest in ESG principles brighten companies’ outlook

s recently as 2010, renewable electricity – other than traditional hydropower – was regarded by many investors as little more than a science project. As part of the U.S. electricity mix, “it was a rounding error,” says Energy Analyst Pavel Molchanov. Now, with the next generation of wind and solar farms churning out electricity at less than half the cost of a decade ago, a new day is dawning. “Wind and solar have been gaining the most market share…Within just a few years, I anticipate that renewables, including hydro, will overtake coal as the number one source of U.S. electricity supply,” Molchanov says. There are many growth drivers for renewable power. Leading the charge toward making the U.S. power sector lower-carbon are much-improved project economics, green energy investments by tech giants like Amazon and Apple, and targets by state governments to become carbon-neutral within 20 to 30 years. In addition, as institutional fund managers become more focused on ESG investing, they are putting more pressure on utilities and other companies to reduce their carbon footprint.

Clean Energy’s Global Luster

When you think of renewable energy vanguards, Europe usually comes to mind. Denmark, for example, sourced about half its electricity from wind power in 2019. But it’s not just the most environmentally minded countries seeing value in clean power. “Countries where electricity is traditionally the most coal-dependent, like China and India, are also starting to shift away from coal – not necessarily because of carbon

emissions, but simply because of smog,” Molchanov says. China leads the world in electricity production from renewable energy sources after massive investment over the past several years, including $83.4 billion in 2019, Bloomberg NEF reported. Air pollution is one driver, but the country’s leaders also see solar and wind as a source of energy security. Solar, in particular, has helped rural communities in both China and India access clean and affordable electricity, putting these countries on a path to meeting one of the U.N.’s sustainable development goals.

A Sunny Outlook For Solar

Today, solar power is the world’s fastest-growing power source, with solar photovoltaic (PV ) generation capacity comprising – on average – one-third of all new power plants built globally over the past three years. While wind projects are almost always large – built by or on behalf of utilities – solar can work just as well in small rooftop systems. In fact, solar panels pop up on roofs around the world. Another benefit to solar is that it can go anywhere the sun shines, including brownfield sites no other developers will touch. Solar farm developer Ameresco has shown the way, Turbines Go High-Tech adorning capped landfills in the U.S. with solar arrays that Here’s a number that may make your head spin: More than rest on proprietary ballast systems. 60 gigawatts of wind generation capacity was installed last year – the equivalent of 60 nuclear power reactors – according Collaborative Change to the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC). About 10 With large-scale investment by the private sector as well percent of that total came from offshore wind farms, which, as governments, renewable power has evolved by leaps and despite being more expensive, are appealing for power-hun- bounds over the past decade. Further investments in smart gry cities along coastlines. grid technologies and battery storage systems can propel A variety of innovations have given wind power a boost. the momentum needed to transition to a truly low-carbon Longer wind turbine blades, like those produced by TPI energy system. Composites, have allowed for efficient power production “Renewable energy sources … are surfing the wave, so to without making turbines taller. (The taller a turbine is, the speak, of this low-carbon trend,” says Molchanov. more challenging it can be for workers to service, and tall Investing in the energy sector involves specific risks, including turbines can interfere with aviation.) There are also more the potential adverse effects of political and regulatory changes, wind turbines designed to capture energy at the lower end and may not be suitable for all investors. of the wind speed scale, making them adaptable to a wider Sources: Raymond James Equity Research; company reports; Sustainability Accounting range of locations. Standards Board; Bloomberg NEF; Lazard Levelized Cost of Energy Analysis; Global Wind Energy Council; International Renewable Energy Agency

Sarah Santana is an independent columnist for Morro Bay Life. She is the president of Santana Wealth Management and you can contact her at sarah.santana@raymondjames.com.

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10 • July 2021 • Morro Bay Life

Making Communities Better Through Print™

UPSKILLING

LIFE INTELLIGENCE

It’s Not About You!

Future Careers, Locally Grown JAMES BRESCIA, Ed.D

ccording to RealtyTrac, San Luis Obispo County ranks 6th in the nation for housing costs (Holden & Bizjak, 2018). However, this situation is somewhat exaggerated because the county’s average wage is below state averages (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2018). These factors make recruiting employees to the county difficult, necessitating a “grow your own” approach. A question facing local leaders is how to grow the economy and wages to match the high cost of living in San Luis Obispo County. One successful response is SLO Partner’s educational programs that train local citizens in skilled jobs presenting high wage potential in the local market. SLO Partners is an initiative of the San Luis Obispo County Office of Education. Local leaders face the challenge of growing a skilled workforce to meet the demand of local technology, software, and manufacturing businesses and industries. One identified and proven strategy to address this regional challenge is to upskill and train the workforce for head of household jobs in technology-related fields right here in our county. Over the past three years, 47 local employers have requested the San Luis Obispo Career & Technical Education (CTE) Foundation and SLO Partners increase the pipeline of qualified workers

ing related skills. Employers understand the importance of diversity in their workforce and consistently request qualified female candidates because of the high degree of success of previous female apprentices. Employers are asking us to grow the pool of female applicants and support their entry into these head of household careers. SLO Partners apprenticeships provide an alternative path to connecting qualified talent from diverse backgrounds and teams with employers looking to hire hard-to-fill occupations. Local employers recognize that gender diversity on teams creates a well-rounded team better able to collaborate and problem-solve. One local success is Marlena, who secured a spot in the program and, after graduating, received three job offers. “The SLO Partners team helped me communicate how to let companies know I was interviewing elsewhere,” she said. “I wouldn’t have known how to do that otherwise - it was an interesting experience saying ‘no’ to really good jobs. I accepted a position at Trust Automation because I liked the culture and diversity. Marlena’s job prospects before completing the program were very different. “All of the positions I was qualified for either weren’t hiring, weren’t willing to pay more than the minimum wage, or had no career path. Trust

advancement in my current position as well as various technical certifications.” CTE, pre-apprenticeships, and apprenticeships have become vital components in our local workforce and economic recovery. Local Assemblymember Jordan Cunningham and State Senator John Laird are positive voices for CTE, Strong Workforce, and recovery grants as we leverage the potential of these programs to address our workforce challenges. In addition, our local school districts, Cuesta College, local trade unions, and local businesses are all innovating to thrive in the post-COVID-19 economy. Creating future careers that are locally grown is a hallmark of our SLO Partners program. Another recent SLO Partner graduate, Stephanie, believes one of the challenges many women in the tech industry face is imposter syndrome. “Imposter syndrome is very real for all Software Developers, but I think it can be particularly challenging for women. When you feel like a minority, feelings of insecurity are amplified. There are many talented people in this field with so much knowledge achieving great things, so gaining confidence in yourself can be tough. It’s really important that we learn to push past those feelings of inadequacies, so we can be role models for other women - we need women in leadership

HEALTH

and confident.” Stephanie also recommends networking and getting involved with women in tech groups. “I’ve met so many women in the industry because of these opportunities. We get together, we motivate each other, and we build each other up. More women need to know there’s a much-needed place for them in the tech industry.” SLO Partners is dedicated to promoting employment upskilling and opportunities for the local community. Highlighted in two recent workforce studies, Early Childhood Education (ECE) is also an essential component of our economic recovery. The San Luis Obispo County Office of Education’s SLO Partners program, Cuesta College, First 5 SLO County, Trust Automation, CAPSLO, Paso Robles Bearkittens, the SLO County Child Care Planning Council, and several other organizations have joined forces in leveraging our ECE apprenticeship program, impact funds, pending state grants, and shared programming. Our goals include creating local multi-agency programs that serve the community, meet the changing needs of childcare, and have sustainability that benefits our entire community. Together we will continue to adapt, innovate, and thrive. It is an honor to serve as your county superintendent of schools.

Daniel Rich contributor

he pandemic has created an atmosphere of stress for many because of the social isolation caused by work and school closures. Recognize that others may have their own issues or stresses, so that if they are hostile towards you, that hostility might be a reflection of their own conflicts or problems. So this is a time when conflicts or disagreements may be escalated. The question is, what can be done to de-escalate situations? First of all, I would suggest a non-threatening approach to others. That means not insulting, name-calling, demeaning, or ridiculing others. It means not bullying, threatening, or giving ultimatums. It is desirable not to judge others or make assumptions, especially negative assumptions about them. In other words, this means giving others the benefit of the doubt. This also means being tolerant of the opinions of others, which is having an attitude of being open-minded. Above all, it means being civil and respectful. Compassion and understanding towards others goes a long way in conflict resolution and negotiations. When people feel threatened, angry, or anxious, they are the most likely to argumentative or oppositional. So anything that you can do to help them to feel better about themselves, more confident, can assist in de-escalations. Appealing to the wisdom and intelligence

of others is always a goal in successful negotiations. When trying to help others solve their issues or problems, instead of attempting to tell others how they should solve their problems, put the responsibility on them. Help them to be introspective about their own issues or problems and come up with their own solutions. The implied message here is that you believe that they have the ability to examine their own problems and can create their own plan and strategy of working towards solutions. This puts the ball in their court, which can be very validating and empowering. Where the disagreements are political in nature, finding common ground, common goals and beliefs, can be valuable. For example, whether you are a Democrat or Republican, you are still an American, which implies common goals for the best interests of the country. Unfortunately, there are always some people who may be trying to pick a fight, making statements that are designed to inflame. You don’t have to take the bait and can simply tell them that they have the right to their opinions, but that you don’t necessarily have to agree with them. As mentioned in a previous article, it is a valuable approach to repeat back to the other person what they have expressed. Ask them if you have correctly interpreted their comments, and if not,re-state them until they believe that you have correctly interpreted their comments. People should be willing to admit that everyone makes mistakes and that everyone is imperfect, but, hopefully, everyone can learn from their mistakes and not repeat them. Another important point is that everyone

COLUMNIST

find it fascinating that people in the same situation, hearing, reading, or experiencing the same thing, will often react differently. We all know at least one person who, no matter what the conversation is about, will find a way to make it about them. It makes for awkward moments, quickly escalating situations, and hurt feelings. While it is normal to be concerned with how others perceive us, some people care a lot more about it. The reasons can vary. Some people feel self-conscious because of insecurities you may know nothing about. Outwardly “normal,” even confident, they may still feel unworthy and judged; therefore, they hide flaws and establish a public image of the way they want to be seen. While we all manage public perception to a degree, some take it a few degrees further and obsess about it. A random situation, if considered threatening to that carefully cultivated public persona, may trigger their insecurities and put them on defense. Growing up with critical, abusive parents who made you feel not good enough is a common background story. Another is wasted time, missed opportunities, and making terrible life decisions, compounded by a decade or two, putting a person behind their peers in life. Catching up is more challenging than making it look like you’ve already caught up and even exceeded others. Building an image of popularity, seeking constant approval, validation, and gratitude from others are the hallmark signs of someone who thinks of themselves as inadequate. People with a “fixed” mindset tend to be more reactive than those with a “growth” mindset. Those with a “fixed” mindset believe that intelligence and their lot in life are fixed and predetermined, and there’s very little to do about it. In contrast, the “growth” mindset, people believe that they have agency for self-determination and shaping the outcomes of their endeavors. If you come from a place of deficiency and think it cannot be corrected, are ashamed or bitter because of it, you are likely to be very self-conscious and more invested in curating your image in a better light for the world to see. Thus, more reactive when something contradicts it or threatens to expose it. People may or may not be aware of why they do what they do. They will react, though. They will blame you, or someone else, for the way they feel, even though their feelings come from their self-perception and skewed understandings, leading to many and frequent arguments. If you tend to take things personally, you have some work ahead to teach yourself not to. You might be projecting your doubts onto others who have no idea what you dislike about yourself or that you have insecurities. You may be reacting to a non-existent threat. You exclude explanations about other should be entitled to change their people’s behavior that have nothing to do with you, ideas that views or attitudes on any partic- may have more merit, and simply preferences others have that ular subject. Times change, and are different from yours but are not a rejection of you. sometimes people also do. Suppose you are on the receiving end of a guilt trip or an In summary, a non-threaten- unexpected altercation with someone clearly taking things ing and non-hostile approach, personally. You can simply clarify your position and rememwith compassion and tolerance ber not to absorb the accusations or give in to the confusion towards others is the approach and the guilt. While it is best to stay away from such people, most likely to resolve disagree- it may not always be possible. Someone like that could be your ments and to de-escalate boss, your spouse, your parent. conflicts. For specific things you can do to overcome taking things Your comments or reactions personally and learn what you can do to de-escalate a contenare welcomed. tious situation with someone taking things personally, subscribe Daniel Rich is a retired therapist to my free newsletter at vpetrova.com. and independent opinion columnist Valentina Petrova has helped people with life, health, relationfor Morro Bay Life; you can email ships, financial, career, professional, and business goals and challenges him at djrich9133@sbcglobal.net. since 2015. You can reach her at valentinapetrovaconsulting.com.

De-escalating Conflicts or Disagreements

VALENTINA PETROVA

with Information Technology Automation has a career path for roles to look up to. It’s certainly

County Superintendent of Schools (IT) and Precision Manufactur- me. There is the opportunity for made me feel more comfortable

Morro Bay Life • July 2021 • 11

Making Communities Better Through Print™

TASTE OF AMERICANA

Enjoy Summer and the 4th of July!

From the Kitchen of

Barbie Butz

have special memories of growing up in Southern California in the 40s and 50s when life was much simpler. The 4th of July was a really big holiday for our family, and I remember picnics at Griffith Park in Glendale, the community park in Arcadia, and backyard gatherings at our home, or the home of my grandparents, with lots of relatives and friends in attendance. The meals were pot luck, so naturally, there was a great variety of food. I especially remember Grandma O’Haver’s fried chicken, mother’s potato salad, and Aunt Maxine’s chocolate cake. There are just some things we never forget. After the picnic, the family headed to locations providing fireworks. I will never forget the display at the Los Angeles Coliseum, which was so magnificent for that time. Of course, it was nothing like we see today, but it certainly left an impression on me as a child. Somehow, food brings us together to share love and laughter. I searched for simple food choices for this 4th of July and summer menu to leave plenty of time for the cook to enjoy the event. When you are gathered together, be sure to relive some memories of past times with family and friends.

Apricot Glaze

This is an easy-to-prepare dish. The sweetness of the apricot glaze complements the pork tenderloin. Ingredients: ▷ ▷ ▷ ▷

1 cup apricot preserves 2/3 cup apricot juice ¼ cup honey 2 tablespoons white vinegar (also try white balsamic vinegar)

▷ 2 tablespoons yellow mustard

Directions:

Combine preserves, juice, honey, and vinegar in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Bring to a low boil over medium heat; reduce heat to medium-low and continue to cook, stirring often, until mixture is thick and bubbling for about 20 minutes. Remove from heat, whisk in mustard, and set aside.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Onions

Lately, I have seen more recipes for sweet potatoes, and this next recipe intrigues me. I have a passion for potato salads, and this one may be added to my collection. It is an unusual combination but will go well with any pork dish. Ingredients: ▷ ▷ ▷ ▷

4 large sweet potatoes Vegetable oil Coarse salt 1 medium onion, thinly sliced lengthwise (with the grain)

Dressing Ingredients:

▷ 3 strips thick-cut bacon ▷ 1/3 cup vegetable oil ▷ 3 tablespoons whole-grain mustard ▷ 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar ▷ 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar

Pork Tenderloins

There is nothing like pork tenderloin. It’s so easy to make and I feel like this is the easiest cut of pork to take on whatever flavors you fancy. In the slow cooker, the Instant Pot, on the grill, there is really no way to mess up a pork tenderloin Ingredients:

▷ Two 1½ pound pork tenderloins ▷ Coarse salt and white pepper for seasoning ▷ ¼ cup whole-grain mustard ▷ Vegetable oil for brushing grate

Directions:

Season tenderloins with coarse salt and white pepper; rub all over with mustard. Brush grate liberally with oil. Grill tenderloins indirectly over medium heat, turning once, brushing often with glaze until center is barely pink and reaches internal temperature of 150 degrees, 25 to 30 minutes. Transfer tenderloins to a platter and let rest at room temperature for 5 minutes before slicing. Serves 8.

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees, and adjust rack to center of oven. Scrub sweet potatoes and dry with paper towels. Prick each with a fork two or three times across top and place on a baking sheet; rub with oil and sprinkle with salt. Transfer to preheated oven. After 25 minutes of baking, scatter sliced onions over and around potatoes. Continue to cook until potatoes are done, but firm and onions are caramelized, 15 to 20 minutes more. Remove baking sheet from oven and allow potatoes to cool; peel away the skin and cut into small cubes.

Directions:

Brown bacon strips and drain on paper towels. Crumble and set aside. To the bacon grease left in the pan, add vegetable oil, mustard, cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Whisk together thoroughly.

Salad Components: ▷ ▷ ▷ ▷

Diced sweet potatoes Caramelized onions Crumbled bacon ¼ cup diced green bell pepper ▷ Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Assemble the salad by folding the diced sweet potatoes and roasted onions in a mixing bowl with crumbled bacon and bell pepper. Season with salt and pepper. Pour dressing over mixture and toss gently. Refrigerate covered until ready to serve. Serves 8.

INDEPENDENCE DAY

July 4, 1776 T

By HAYLEY MATTSON of Morro Bay Life

he Fourth of July traditions of Independence Day celebrations go back to the 18th century and the American Revolution. However, the celebrations today look nothing like they did back then. Amid the Revolutionary War, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence on July 2, 1776. Two days later, delegates from the 13 colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence, a historical document like none other drafted by Thomas Jefferson that would shape the nation we are today. The Revolutionary War began in 1775, arising from growing tensions between residents of Great Britain’s 13 North American colonies and the colonial government, which represented the British crown. Tension between British troops and colonial militiamen in Lexington and Concord in April 1775 ignited the armed conflict. By the following summer, the rebels were waging a full-scale war for their independence. France entered the American Revolution on the side of the Americans in 1778, turning what had essentially been a civil war into an international conflict. After French assistance helped the Continental Army forced the British to surrender at Yorktown, Virginia, in 1781, the Americans effectively won their independence, although fighting did not formally end until 1783. The strained relationship between Americans and the British authorities began more than a decade before the outbreak of the American Revolution. The French and Indian War, or Seven Years’

War (1756-1763), brought new territories under the crown’s power, but the expensive conflict led to new and unpopular taxes. Attempts by the British government to raise revenue by taxing the colonies — notably the Stamp Act of 1765, the Townshend Acts of 1767, and the Tea Act of 1773 — were met with heated protest among the colonists, who resented their lack of representation in Parliament and demanded the same rights as other British subjects. In response, a group of colonial delegates (including George Washington of Virginia, John and Samuel Adams of Massachusetts, Patrick Henry of Virginia, and John Jay of New York) met in Philadelphia in September 1774 to voice their grievances against the British crown. This First Continental Congress did not go so far as to demand independence from Britain; however, it denounced taxation without representation, as well as the maintenance of the British army in the colonies without their consent. In addition, it issued a declaration of every citizen’s rights, including life, liberty, property, assembly, and trial by jury. The Continental Congress voted to meet again in May 1775 to consider further action, but by that time, violence had already broken out. On the night of April 18, 1775, hundreds of British troops marched from Boston to nearby Concord, Massachusetts, in order to seize an arms cache. Paul Revere and other riders sounded the alarm, and colonial militiamen began mobilizing to intercept the Redcoats. On April 19, local militiamen clashed with British

soldiers in the Battles of Lexington and Concord in Massachusetts, marking the “shot heard round the world” that signified the start of the Revolutionary War. When the initial battles in the Revolutionary War broke out in 1775, few colonists desired complete independence from Great Britain, and those who did were considered radical. By the middle of the following year, however, many additional colonists had come to favor independence, thanks to growing hostility against Britain and the spread of revolutionary sentiments such as those expressed in the bestselling pamphlet “Common Sense,” published by Thomas Paine in early 1776. “Common Sense” was a pamphlet setting forth the argument in favor of American independence. Pamphlets were an important medium for the spread of ideas and information in the 16th through 19th centuries. “Common Sense” played a remarkable role in transforming a colonial squabble into the American Revolution. On July 4, 1776, the 13 colonies claimed their independence from England, an event that eventually led to the formation of the United States of America. In a June 7 session in the Pennsylvania State House (later known as Independence Hall), Richard Henry Lee of Virginia presented a resolution with the famous words: “Resolved: That these United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, free and independent States, that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain is, and ought to be, totally dissolved.” The 13 colonies included New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia. It was those colonies that came together to form the United States of America. Though the movement for American independence effectively triumphed at the Battle of Yorktown, contemporary observers did not see

that as the decisive victory yet. British forces remained stationed around Charleston, and the powerful main army still resided in New York. Though neither side would take decisive action over the better part of the next two years, the British removal of their troops from Charleston and Savannah in late 1782 finally pointed to the end of the conflict. British and American negotiators in Paris signed preliminary peace terms in Paris late that November, and on September 3, 1783, Great Britain formally recognized the independence of the United States in the Treaty of Paris. At the same time, Britain signed separate peace treaties with France and Spain (which had entered the conflict in 1779), bringing the American Revolution to a close after eight long years. After the Revolutionary War, Americans continued to commemorate Independence Day every year, in celebrations that allowed the new nation’s emerging political leaders to address citizens and create a feeling of unity. By the last decade of the 18th century, the two major political parties—the Federalist Party and Democratic-Republicans—that had arisen began holding separate Fourth of July celebrations in many large cities. As we look back on our history, we as Americans continue to fight for our independent freedoms. As history shows, we evolve, grow, and become better. At times, however, we can regress and move backward. That does not equal success; that is not progress. You cannot measure success in reaching the top of the mountain but in continuing the climb. If it was going to be easy, someone would have already done it. What are you doing today to make a difference? As you celebrate your independence and that of our nation, please think about what good and honest work you will commit to ensuring freedom for the next generation. We wish you a very safe and meaningful Independence Day.

12 • July 2021 • Morro Bay Life

Making Communities Better Through Print™

CONNECTION, COMMUNICATION & COMMITMENT

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