Central Coast December 2020

Family

Inside
Child Development ........ 2

Library Services .............. 4

Wellness ......................... 4

Fun & Games .................. 8

Safety ............................ 10

Local History .................. 12

Wordmonger .................. 14

Calendar ......................... 17

Local Resources ............ 21

Toy Safety / Library Services & Kits / Prematurity Awareness / Swaddling Safety

Free! Central Coast Family

Child Development
December is
Safe Toy & Gift Month!
Skates, tricycles, toy trucks and
cars, wagons and balls are among
children’s favorite playthings.
But in one year, according to
U.S. Consumer Product Safety
Commission estimates, there
were 150,000 toy-related injuries
serious enough to require hospital
emergency room treatment.
Falls are the most frequent kind of
accident, but many serious injuries
result from children swallowing
small parts or placing tiny toys in
noses or ears, from exploding gas-
powered toys, from flammable
products, and from sharp edges.
Each year, some 5,000 new toys
enter the market-place. The
holiday season finds over 150,000
different kinds of toys for sale
in approximately one million
stores. Despite the efforts of
manufacturers, retailers, safety
Central Coast Family (805) 528-0440
inspectors, and others, it is
impossible to examine every toy.
But it is possible for parents and
other relatives to check every
new toy they buy and every old
toy around the house for possible
hazards.
The following suggestions can
help you keep play time a safe,
fun time.
SELECT TOYS WITH CARE
• Choose carefully. Look for good
design and quality construction
in the toys you buy.
• Watch out for any toys that
have sharp edges, small parts,
or sharp points. Avoid toys that
produce extremely loud noises
that can damage hearing, and
propelled objects that can injure • Check with parents before you
the eyes.
• Buy toys that suit a child’s age,
interest, and abilities. Avoid
toys that are too complex for
young children. Many toys • Teach children to put their toys
have a suggested age range to
help you choose toys that are
appealing as well as safe.
• Be a label reader. Look for • Toy boxes, too, should be
safety information such as “Not
recommended for children
under 3 years of age,” or “non-
toxic” on toys likely to end up
in little mouths, or “washable/
hygenic materials” on stuffed
toys and dolls.
buy a child a toy that requires
close supervision - electrically
operated toys, shooting toys
and games, chemistry sets, and
TM
toys for rust and weak or
sharp parts that could become
hazardous.
away so the toys do not get
broken and so that no one trips
and falls on them.
checked for safety. A toy chest
should have a lightweight lid
that can be opened easily from
within. For extra safety, be sure
there are ventilation holes.
Watch for sharp edges that
could cut and hinges that could
pinch. Attach rubber bumpers
to the front corners of a toy
chest so little fingers won’t be
caught by a slammed lid.

• Toy shelves are another storage

the like. Remember, too, that
possibility. Open shelves allow
Our goal is to connect Central Coast families with the resources they need to thrive! younger children may have
children to see favorite toys and
access to toys intended for
easily return them to the shelf
EDITOR Associate EDITORS older children once the toy has
after play. Be sure the shelf is
Patrice Horspool Claire & Jack Vogel been brought into the home.
sturdy and won’t tip over if the
ccfamilyed@gmail.com ccfamilyae@gmail.com • Look for the UL (Underwriters child climbs on it.
Laboratories) seal on electrical
PHOTOGRAPHy ADVERTISING toys. It indicates the electrical
Stanley Horspool CC F Inquiries: parts have been safety tested.
ccfamilyph@gmail.com ccfamilyad@gmail.com
TEACH PROPER USE OF TOYS
• Check the instructions and
GRAPHIC DESIGN DISTRIBUTION MANAGER
Out of the Blue ™
Eric Woodards explain to your child how to use
the toy.
FEATURE & CONTRIBUTING WRITERS • Always try to supervise children
Jennifer Best, John J. Cannell, Guy Crabb, Kerrin Edmonds, while they play. Learn to spot
Stanley W. Horspool, Karyn Lutes, Rebecca Juretic, CS Perryess “an accident about to happen.”
• Check toys periodically for
Central Coast Family is published monthly with a readership over 40,000 throughout
™

San Luis Obispo County and North Santa Barbara County. broken parts and potential
hazards. Any dangerous toy
Find us online: www.centralcoastfamily.com
should be repaired immediately
www.facebook.com/CentralCoastFamily or thrown away. Sharp or
Submission deadline: 20th of each month prior to publication splintered edges on wooden
Information contained in advertisements and other submissions is accepted in good faith. Publication does not imply endorsement by Central Coast
toys should be sanded smooth.
Family. Opinions expressed by contributors do not necessarily reflect views of the publisher. We reserve the right to reject or edit submissions for any reason.
Use only non-toxic paint on toys
Material published herein may not be reproduced in any manner without prior written permission. © CCF 2020
or toy boxes. Check outdoor

Central Coast Family • December 2020 • www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 2


SEVEN TOY DANGERS
1. Sharp edges: Toys made of
brittle plastic or glass can break than 1 foot to the ear. Do not
easily, exposing sharp points
and edges. Wooden, metal, 4. Sharp points: Broken toys can
and plastic toys sometimes
have sharp edges due to poor
construction.
2. Small parts: Tiny toys and toys
with small, removable parts
can be swallowed or become
lodged in a child’s windpipe,
ears, or nose. The squeakers
in some squeeze toys can
be removed and possibly
swallowed. The seams of
poorly constructed stuffed toys
can break open and release
small pellets that also can be
swallowed or inhaled.
3. Loud noises: Toy caps and some
noise-making guns and other
toys can reach noise levels that
can damage hearing. The law
requires the following label
on boxes of caps producing
Central Coast Family • December 2020
Child Development
noise above a certain level:
“WARNING - Do not fire closer
use indoors.”
Merry Christmas!
expose dangerous prongs and
knife-sharp points. Pins and
staples on dolls’ clothes, hair,
from Toni & Toni at
and accessories can easily
puncture an unsuspecting
child. Even a teddy bear or
The Village Salon
stuffed toy can be assembled
with wires that can cut or stab. Give Beauty! Gift Certificates Available
5. Propelled objects: Projectiles
- guided missiles and other Call for more info: (805) 489-5100
flying toys - can be turned into
weapons and can injure eyes
in particular. Children should
115 East Branch Street in Arroyo Grande
never be permitted to play with
adult lawn darts or other hobby
or sporting equipment with
sharp points. Arrows or darts
6. Electric toys: Electric toys that of eight. Children should be
used by children should have
are improperly constructed, taught to use electric toys
soft cork tips, rubber suction
wired, or misused can shock cautiously and under adult
cups or other protective tips to
or burn. Electric toys must supervision.
prevent injury.
meet mandatory requirements
for the maximum surface 7. Wrong toy for the wrong age:
temperature, electrical wiring, Toys that may be safe for older
and prominent warning labels. children can be extremely
Electric toys with any heating dangerous in the hands of little
elements are recommended ones. Check package labels for
only for children over the age recommended age range.
• www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 3
Library Voice
Check It Out:
December Happenings
by Rebecca Juretic
Teen Author Exclusive
We are hosting another exclusive
live Book Club event for teens
and adults on Tuesday, December
1st at 4:00 pm. This time, we
are featuring the author of The
Dark Tide, Alicia Jasinska. Go to
slolibrary.org and find the event
on our Event Calendar to register
and we will send you the event
link the day before the program.
The Dark Tide is a gripping, dark
LGBT young adult fantasy about
two girls who must choose
between saving themselves, each
other, or their sinking island.
Science Online
Is Out of this World!
Our third Science Online Program
is happening December 4 from
10:30 to 11:10am. This time,
the theme is Aliens: Escape
from Earth. The program is for
school-aged kids and requires
registration. Go to slolibrary.org
and find the event on our Event
Calendar. We will send you a link
to the event the day prior to the The show is best for Pre-K through
program.
During a midnight meteor shower, number countdowns, spelling
something mysterious falls from activities, jingle bells, character
the sky — but it’s not a shooting role-play and Holiday baking to encourage at-home participation
Central Coast Family
star. Two curious kids venture into
the forest to investigate and find
themselves mixed up with visitors
from another planet! Pursued by
a crazy space scientist, they must
rescue the aliens and get them
back to their spaceship — before
it’s too late!
Buckle up for an action-packed,
out-of-this-world adventure
that explores science concepts
like pressure, energy transfer,
chemical reactions and more.
Library Holiday Spectacular
Premieres December 4th
Be sure to log on to the Library
YouTube Channel for a special
holiday treat! In addition to
storytimes and other great
videos, we will have a Winter
Holiday Spectacular premiering
December 4th. This 40-minute
festive program will celebrate the
spirit and wonder of the season
with classic carols and Holiday
traditions.
early elementary-aged children,
and will include fun sing-alongs,
When you drop by your local
in traditions and activities that library branch this December,
define the Holiday season. be sure to pick up your Grab &
Go Craft kit! We have special
Kits for Kids holiday-themed crafts – and some
In the past few weeks, the SLO branches even have activities for
County Library has supplied 2,000 adults! For example, the Arroyo
STEAM and art kits to San Luis Grande Library will be giving
Obispo County kids receiving free out Holiday Elf Kits for kids and
lunches through their schools. Cornstarch Dough Ornament Kits
These kits include free books, for adults, while supplies last. The
library information and other kits contain everything you need
enrichment materials. A big thank to make a simple and fun project
you to California State Library for at home.
a grant which made this program
Rebecca Juretic is a freelance writer and Public
possible. Relations Consultant for the San Luis Obispo
County Libraries. Rebecca can be reached at:
Holiday Craft Kits juretic@sbcglobal.net.
• December 2020 • www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 4
 Brainfuse
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Central Coast Family • December 2020 • www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 5

Wellness
Prematurity Awareness
December is National Prematurity
Awareness Month. Nearly a half
million babies in the United States
—that’s 1 out of every 9—are born
premature each year. It is a birth
that occurs at least three weeks
before a baby’s due date. It is
also known as preterm birth (or
less than 37 weeks—full term is
40 weeks). Important growth and
development occur throughout
pregnancy—especially in the final
months and weeks.
The earlier a baby is born, the more
severe his or her health problems
are likely to be. Although babies
born very preterm are a small
percentage of all births, these very
preterm infants account for a large
proportion of infant deaths. More
infants die from preterm-related
problems than from any other single
cause. Some premature babies
require special care and spend
weeks or months hospitalized in a
neonatal intensive care unit. Those
who survive may face lifelong
problems such as: intellectual
disabilities; cerebral palsy; breathing
and respiratory problems; visual
problems (including retinopathy
of prematurity); hearing loss, and
digestive problems.
Risk Factors - Even if a woman
does everything “right” during
pregnancy, she still can have a
premature baby. There are some
known risk factors for premature
birth. For example, one risk factor
is having a previous preterm birth.
Additionally, although most black
women give birth at term, on
average, black women are about
50% more likely to have a premature
baby compared to white women.
The reasons for the difference are
an area of intense research.
Central Coast Family
The other known risk factors are:
carrying more than one baby (twins,
triplets, or more); problems with
the uterus or cervix; chronic health
problems in the mother, such as
high blood pressure, diabetes,
and clotting disorders; certain
infections during pregnancy;
cigarette smoking; alcohol use, or
illicit drug use during pregnancy.
Premature Birth: What to Know -
Doctors sometimes need to deliver
a baby early because of concerns
for the health of the mother or
the baby. An early delivery should
only be considered when there
is a medical reason to do so. If a
pregnant woman is healthy and the
pregnancy is progressing well, it is
best to let the baby come naturally,
in its own time.
Although most babies born just a
few weeks early do well and have
no unusual issues, some do have
more health problems than full
term babies. For example, a baby
born at 35 weeks is more likely to
have jaundice, breathing problems,
and a longer hospital stay.
What Can I Do? There are things
that women can do to improve
their health, lower the risk of having
a premature baby, and help their
baby stay healthy. These include:
Avoid smoking, alcohol, and drugs.
See your health care provider for a
medical checkup before pregnancy.
Get prenatal care as soon as you
think you may be pregnant, and
throughout your pregnancy. Talk
to your health care provider about:
how to control diseases such as
• December 2020
SOCIAL DISTANCING AND MASKS
WILL BE REQUIRED
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10 AT 5:00 PM
high blood pressure or diabetes; a menstrual period, and abdominal
healthy diet and prenatal vitamins cramps with or without diarrhea.
(taking 400 micrograms of folic
acid daily before and during early Birth is a complex and wonderful
pregnancy); concerns about process. Fortunately, the outcome
pregnancy and warning signs or for most women is a full term,
symptoms of preterm labor; use healthy baby. More research still
of 17 alpha hydroxyprogesterone is needed to understand the risk
caproate if you had a previous factors for premature birth, such
preterm birth, and breastfeeding as how family history, genetics,
(breast milk is the best food for infections, race and ethnicity,
babies, whether they are born early nutrition, and environment may
or at term). work together to put some women
at greater risk for a premature
Warning Signs of Preterm Labor - In delivery.
most cases, preterm labor begins
unexpectedly and with no known For more Information on premature
cause. It’s important to seek care birth, go to:
if you think you might be having
preterm labor, because your doctor www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/
may be able to help. maternalinfanthealth/Preterm
Birth.htm
The warning signs are: contractions
(the abdomen tightens like a fist) www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/
Preterm_Labor_and_Birth.cfm
every 10 minutes or more often;
change in vaginal discharge (leaking www.marchofdimes.com/
fluid or bleeding from the vagina); prematurity
pelvic pressure—the feeling that
the baby is pushing down; low, dull Excerpted with permission. © 2019 Centers for
backache; cramps that feel like a Disease Control and Prevention.
• www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 6
Central Coast Family • December 2020 • www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 7
Fun & Games Jack’s Jokes
What do you call a musical elf? Christmas Wrapper!
What is Claustrophobia? The fear of Santa Claus!

Christmas
What is your parents favorite carol? Silent Night!

Maze

Winter
Word
Search

Sudoku begins with some of the grid cells filled with numbers. The object is to fill
the other empty cells with numbers between 1 and 9 (1 number only in each cell).
A number should appear only once in each row, column, and region.

S
U
D
O
K
Central Coast Family • December 2020 •
U www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 8
 Visit ReadySLO.org
for COVID-19 updates
for San Luis Obispo
County
Central Coast Family • December 2020 • www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 9
Safety
Hip
Healthy
Swaddling
Are you swaddling your
baby properly?
Many parents find that swaddling
can provide comfort for fussy
babies, reduce crying, and develop
more settled sleep patterns. When
babies are swaddled, care should 3. Bring the left arm down. Wrap
be taken to swaddle properly so
the baby is safe and healthy.
Improper swaddling may lead to
hip dysplasia or developmental 4. Bring the right arm down and
dysplasia of the hip. When in
the womb the baby’s legs are
in a fetal position with the legs
bent up and across each other. 5. Tuck the cloth under the left
Sudden straightening of the legs
to a standing position can loosen
the joints and damage the soft
cartilage of the socket.
There are many ways to swaddle
babies by using blankets or
commercial products designed for
swaddling. In order for swaddling
to allow healthy hip development,
the legs should be able to bend up
and out at the hips. This position
allows for natural development of
the hip joints.
The baby’s legs should not be
tightly wrapped straight down
and pressed together. Swaddling
infants with the hips and knees
in an extended position may
increase the risk of hip dysplasia
and dislocation.
Here is one of the safe methods
for baby swaddling:
1. If you are using a square cloth,
fold back one corner creating It’s especially important to allow
a straight edge.
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bend up. In the womb the legs her stomach, this may increase
are in a fetal position with the the risk of suffocation. Seek your
2. Place the baby on the cloth legs bent up across each other. pediatrician’s advice if swaddling
so that the top of the fabric Sudden straightening of the legs an older or more active baby.
is at shoulder level. If using a to a standing position can loosen
rectangular cloth, the baby’s the joints and damage the soft For more information, including a
shoulders will be placed at the cartilage of the socket. video showing three hip-healthy
top of the long side. methods to swaddle your baby,
Final Thoughts visit: http://hipdysplasia.org/
developmental-dysplasia-of-
When put down to sleep, a
the cloth over the arm and the-hip/hip-healthy-swaddling
swaddled baby should be placed
chest. Tuck under the right
on his or her back, face up.
side of the baby.
Reprinted with permission. © International
If the baby can roll onto his or Hip Dysplasia Institute. All rights reserved.
wrap the cloth over the baby’s
arm and chest.
side of the baby. The weight
of the baby will hold the cloth
firmly in place.
6. Twist or fold the bottom end
of the cloth and tuck behind
the baby, ensuring that both
legs are bent up and out.
It is important to leave room for
the hips to move.
What about sleepsacks and
commercial products?
Some parents choose to wrap their
babies in sleepsacks specifically
designed for swaddling, instead
of using a simple cloth or
blanket. Commercial products for
swaddling should have a loose
pouch or sack for the baby’s legs
and feet, allowing plenty of hip
movement. However, even some
of these commercial products
can confine the legs if they are
tightened around the thighs.
a baby’s hips to spread apart and
• December 2020 • www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 10
Central Coast Family • December 2020 • www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 11
Local History
SLO Night Life by Guy Crabb
California became a state in 1850 and
the gold rush was a major factor in
attracting people to our great state.
The majority of people who came
to California during this time period
were hard-working men who came
to seek their fortune in the hills and
rivers of the Golden State. Towns
such as Angles Camp, Jamestown,
Jackass Hill, Volcano, and many
others started popping up all over
in the areas where gold was being
dug out of the dirt. These were the
towns where gold seekers went to
cash in their gold and stay for a few
days before they went back to their
claims in the hills.
These gold rush towns were small,
but they needed businesses and
entertainment to provide the
miners with supplies, haircuts, fresh
food, hot baths, and maybe a nice
soft bed to sleep on. In addition
to supplying miners with these
amenities, the towns also provided
the men with entertainment
that would include gambling San Luis Obispo was never a gold
and beverages, such as beer and town, but several of our founding
whiskey.
Many of these miners spent most, Some opened hotels, saloons,
if not all, of their hard-earned restaurants, stores, or bakeries. It
Central Coast Family
money in the saloons in these small
towns. Some of these saloons
were nothing more than a tent with
a sign in front promising a strong
drink of whiskey for a cheap price.
It was a dangerous place for these
miners, because the alcohol took
away their common sense and soon
their money would be gone. They
would find themselves waking up in
the local jail or laying on the ground
behind the saloons after being
thrown out of the bars.
We seem to have our own issue in
San Luis Obispo with the number
of bars we have in the city. In
the old days, the saloons would
often outnumber the churches
and restaurants in a town. Some
towns didn’t have the level of law
enforcement needed to keep the
peace. Today, we will often see a
new bar that wants to be included
with the bars that line Higuera
Street or one of the cross streets.
fathers came to our town after
trying to find their fortune in gold.
seems that if you have a growing
population, you also attract people
who want to indulge in alcoholic
beverages.
The history of San Luis Obispo
indicates that saloons were common
and patrons were plentiful. Most of
my research has to do with the last
100 years of businesses that popped
up in the downtown area of SLO. In
1904, there were over 20 saloons
in the downtown area. There was
the Branch Saloon at 789 Higuera,
Novelty Saloon at 875 Monterey,
St. James Bar at 877 Monterey
(next door to the Novelty), Whisper
Saloon at 775 Higuera, The Yosemite
at 1015 Chorro, and the McCaffrey
Bros at 710 Higuera. There were
only about 8 restaurants, 4 banks,
3 bakeries, and 1 mining company
called Chorro Gold Mining at 1133
Chorro. In 1912, we had around 20
saloons in town, 10 doctors, and 2
undertakers.
• December 2020
Monterey Street is getting a makeover.
Buildings are being renovated and the
parking lots are being dug up.
Buy your copy of Monterey/Marsh Sts
100 Year Book. Remember the past, as
the future is right around the corner.
Enjoy Your Memories!
Get an autographed copy at:
w w w. slo100years.com
Also available at Barnes and Noble, Crushed Grape, Antiques of Monterey,
History Center, Apple Farm, and Boo Boo Records. GUY CRABB PUBLISHING
Let’s jump to 1949, when we find it cheaper to make drinks at your
that bars are no longer called own home. McCarthy’s Cocktail
saloons, but cocktail lounges. Cal Lounge was at 1019 Court Street,
Poly was growing and so was the Dan’s Cocktail Lounge was at 999
population of the city. There were Monterey, and Floyd’s Cocktail
around 17 cocktail lounges in town. Lounge was at 1011 Higuera. The
There was the Budweiser Tavern Anderson Hotel had its own lounge
at 1032 Chorro. The cool history of at 955 Monterey, which made it
the Budweiser Tavern is that it later convenient for its guests to have a
became known as Bull’s Tavern, drink without leaving the hotel.
because it was owned by Albert
“Bull” Tognazzini, who renamed his By 1980, bars were spread out in
tavern after himself. Some other hotels, pool halls, private clubs, and
lounges of the time were Berta’s other venues. The bars listed in
at 869 Monterey, Fountain Inn at the yellow pages were the Gaslight
South 101 Highway, Jim’s Inn at 1025 Lounge at 2143 Broad, Sully’s at
Morro, and the Gold Room at 897 1000 Higuera, and McCarthy’s still
Monterey. Of course, other towns at Court Street. You could also go
started growing and their cocktail down to Golden West Beer/Pool at
lounges started popping up, such 676 Higuera and have a drink and
as Happy Jack’s in Morro Bay and shoot some pool, or you could go
Lyle’s Mid-Nite Cocktail Lounge at to McLintocks Saloon and have a
1215 Spring Street in Paso Robles. drink and some good food with the
family, just as you can today. In
By 1970, San Luis Obispo continued 1980, you could go to Delite Bakery
to grow, but the number of cocktail or Swenson’s Ice Cream to have
lounges declined. Something some treats. Today both of these
interesting was happening. The businesses have turned into bars.
number of bars reduced but the You could also go into a few places
number of liquor stores increased and taste wine, such as Wine Street
dramatically. Also, more hotels and Wines.
motels included bars in their own
establishment. There were about 10 Today, we have many bars in town.
liquors stores in town, which made Is that a good thing? I’m not sure.
How many bars should a town have?
Ultimately, it is a decision that our
city leaders will make. Personally,
I would like to have a few more
bakeries and ice cream stores in
town to attract new families that
are moving into the area. Happy
holidays, and be careful if you
have a drink or two at your holiday
parties.
Guy Crabb retired after teaching for over
32 years, most recently at Charles E. Teach
Elementary School in San Luis Obispo. He was
selected as San Luis Coastal Unified School
District Teacher of the Year for 2006-2007.
Reach him at crabbx5@charter.net.
• www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 12
 drowningpreventionfoundation.com

Central Coast Family • December 2020 • www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 13

Education

CS Perryess
writes
about words
Bad Boys The moniker was adopted by
a powerful gang in fourteenth
Fiction often depends on the century India known for brutally
villainy of the villain, and there strangling travellers and So, my trusty followers, consider
term hussy. By the 1600s, though,
are so many great terms to refer passersby.
the class warfare reflected by hussy began to mean a woman or
to those villains. Here are some of
these etymologies. Also, can you girl who shows casual or improper
my favorites: The term rascal comes from the suggest some other synonyms for
behavior. Since then, it’s been
early 1500s, from a word meaning rascals, miscreants and villains?
downhill for the word hussy.
Hooligan – Though there is outcast, rabble, or the lowest
definitely some disagreement class. Many etymologists suggest
A Stab at Equality When the business of women
among the etymologists on this that the original term comes from
exhibiting casual or improper
one, most seem to lean toward an older form which was the behavior was “managed” by a
All badness does not belong to
the theory that hooligan is one grandmother of the term rash, man, that man was referred to in
the boys. Though a quick survey
more slur against the oft-maligned meaning mud, filth, scab or dregs. Middle Latin as a ruffian, or pimp.
of Disney movies suggests that
Irish. It’s likely that a family by the Interestingly (and frighteningly)
nearly all antagonists are women
name of Houlighan (one of the Those early fifteenth century enough, the term ruffian appears
(generally stepmothers), the
spellings of Hoolihan) was giving rascals really had it bad. Since the to share some etymological
language itself clearly leans more
the police a tough time in London late 1500s, the term has meant roots with words meaning lover,
toward male malefactors. This
before the 1890s, about the time dishonest, unprincipled, and/or brother, and bully. We can still see
final installment of antagonistic
the derogatory term we now lazy, which may be negative, but a tiny part of this odd history in the
labels include two that initially
know first appeared in print. at least it doesn’t involve nasty referred to bad gals and one phrase Bully for you, in which the
skin conditions. that referred to bad guys who term bully maintains its positive
Hoodlum – Though a theory meaning.
employed women and soiled their
exists that hoodlum is actually A miscreant, on the other hand, is
reputations. Oddly, usage for all
another Irish name, Muldoon, lacking in spiritual understanding Life can be pretty weird and
three has leaned over the years
flipped backward (noodlum) and (or so suggest those applying language reflects life’s weirdness.
toward the boys.
mistakenly read by a San Francisco the label). Miscreant comes What thoughts do you have, good
typesetter, most etymologists form mes- meaning wrong and followers, regarding ruffians,
Rapscallion is a term now
lean toward a Bavarian root -creant meaning believe, defined hussies and rapscallions?
associated with males, but
for this word. One possibility originally in English as infidel,
it appears to have started
is huddellump, a ragamuffin. unbelieving, or heretic. Early on in
with the Middle English term
Another contender is the term its life as a French word, it simply My thanks to sources: Hugh Rawson’s book
ramp, or ill-behaved woman.
hydelum, meaning disorderly. meant heathen. Today in English, Wicked Words, etymonline.com, thesaurus.
Many etymologists believe the com, and the OED.
The Bavarian argument generally miscreant has the broader
grandmother word for ramp is
wins out, since in 1870s San meaning, evil or immoral.
romp, a rude, awkward, boisterous,
Francisco, Germans were one of
untaught girl. The similarity with
the larger non-English speaking Villain, like rascal, was originally a
rascal is probably responsible for
groups in the City by the Bay, and term used to define someone of
this word’s gender identity shift.
it’s no secret that, whether right the lower class, someone base,
or wrong, those who don’t fit in low-born or rustic. The word
The term hussy has maintained
tend to be suspected of evildoing. villain is related to villa, or country
its gender-associations, though
house (which, interestingly, now somewhere along the way, this
Thug – The oldest (and possibly carries a high class tone). Though
perfectly upstanding word moved
most honest) of these three starting out meaning inhabitant
to the dark side. In the 1500s
villainous terms, thug showed up of a farm, the term morphed into
Hussy was a respectable synonym
in English about 1810, originating meaning peasant, churl, boor,
for housewife or goodwife and
in Hindi (thaq, meaning cheat clown, knave or scoundrel. It
had no negative connotation. The CS Perryess writes for teens, narrates audio
or swindler), which may have wasn’t until 1822 that villain was books, and ponders the wonder of words in a
term shameless hussy originated
come from a Sanskrit word associated specifically with the foggy little town on California’s central coast.
in these times, with shameless Find more at http://csperryess.blogspot.com,
meaning cunning and fraudulent. bad boys of literature.
modifying the perfectly upright or reach him at csperryess@gmail.com.

Central Coast Family • December 2020 • www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 14

Central Coast Family • December 2020 • www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 15
Central Coast Family • December 2020 • www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 16
December 2020 Special Family Days
SUNDAY
29
FARMERS MARKET:
11:30-2:30pm Nipomo: Monarch Club
3:00-6:00pm Grover Bch Ramona Pk
December is:
Universal Human Rights Month
Hi Neighbor Month
National Stress Free Family
Holiday Month
Read A New Book Month
Safe Toy and Gift Month
Write to a Friend Month
MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY
30
FARMERS MARKET:
1
FARMERS MARKET:
2
FARMERS MARKETS:
3
FARMERS MARKETS:
4 5
BINGO VETS HALL MB - 1st FRI 5:00pm FARMERS MARKETS:
2-4:30pm Los Osos: 2nd & Santa Maria 3:00-6:00 pm in Paso Robles City Park 8:30-11am AG Spencers Market 3:00-6:00pm Old Porte Fisheries AG FARMERS MARKETS: 8:00-10:30am SLO Promenade
LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:10 SLO 12:30-4:30pm Santa Maria Town Ctr 2:30-5:00pm Spencers Morro Bay 9:00am-12:30pm Paso Robles Wal Mart 9:00am-12:30pm Templeton City Park
Birthstone: 3:00-6:00pm AT Sunken Gardens 6:00-9:00pm Downtown SLO 2:30-5:30pm Cambria Main St Vets Hall 9:00am-1:00pm Paso Downtown Park
DOC BURNSTEIN’S READING LAB 3:00-6:00pm Pismo Beach Pier 12:00-2:30pm AG Village Gazebo
3:30-4:15pm AG LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:00 MB, LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:30 LO
Blue Topaz / Turquoise LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:30 AT,
10:30 AG, 11:00 NI
10:10 SLO, 10:15 CAM,10:30 AT, 10:30
AG,10:30 LO, 11:00 CAY, 11:30 SMG
2:30-6:00pm Morro Bay 800 Main St
LIBRARY STORYTIME: 11:00 AG
SLO CO GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
WORLD AIDS day NATIONAL 1st SAT 12:30am IOOF Hall SLO
COOKIE day
INTERNATIONAL day OF
Flower: Poinsettia Rosa Park’s Day THE DISABLED PERSON
special NATIONAL ROOF-OVER- WALT DISNEY’S
National pie day education day YOUR-HEAD DAY
BIRTHDAY (Born in 1901)

6
FARMERS MARKET:
11:30-2:30pm Nipomo: Monarch Club
3:00-6:00pm Grover Bch Ramona Pk
7
FARMERS MARKET:
8
FARMERS MARKET:
9
FARMERS MARKETS:
10
FARMERS MARKETS:
11
FARMERS MARKETS:
12
FARMERS MARKETS:
2-4:30pm Los Osos: 2nd & Santa Maria 3:00-6:00 pm in Paso Robles City Park 8:30-11am AG Spencers Market 3:00-6:00pm Old Porte Fisheries AG 9:00am-12:30pm Paso Robles Wal Mart 8:00-10:30am SLO Promenade
LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:10 SLO 12:30-4:30pm Santa Maria Town Ctr 2:30-5:00pm Spencers Morro Bay 2:30-5:30pm Cambria Main St Vets Hall 9:00am-12:30pm Templeton City Park
3:00-6:00pm AT Sunken Gardens 6:00-9:00pm Downtown SLO LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:30 LO 9:00am-1:00pm Paso Downtown Park
DOC BURNSTEIN’S READING LAB 3:00-6:00pm Pismo Beach Pier 12:00-2:30pm AG Village Gazebo
3:30-4:15pm AG LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:00 MB,
LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:30 AT, 10:10 SLO, 10:15 CAM,10:30 AT, 10:30 2:30-6:00pm Morro Bay 800 Main St
10:30 AG, 11:00 NI AG,10:30 LO, 11:00 CAY, 11:30 SMG LIBRARY STORYTIME: 11:00 AG
pearl harbor DAY
(Attacked by Japan in 1941) Human Rights Day
Holiday card day
Nobel Prize awardS Poinsettia day
emily dickinson’s
birthday(Born in 1896) unicef Anniversary
(Established in 1946)

NEW MOON
NATIONAl
Put on your own brownie day
shoes day Hanukkah begins

13
FARMERS MARKET:
14
FARMERS MARKET:
15
FARERS MARKET:
16
FARMERS MARKETS:
17
FARMERS MARKETS:
18
FARMERS MARKETS:
19
FARMERS MARKETS:
11:30-2:30pm Nipomo: Monarch Club 2-4:30pm Los Osos: 2nd & Santa Maria 3:00-6:00 pm in Paso Robles City Park 8:30-11am AG Spencers Market 3:00-6:00pm Old Porte Fisheries AG 9:00am-12:30pm Paso Robles Wal Mart 8:00-10:30am SLO Promenade
3:00-6:00pm Grover Bch Ramona Pk LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:10 SLO 12:30-4:30pm Santa Maria Town Ctr 2:30-5:00pm Spencers Morro Bay 2:30-5:30pm Cambria Main St Vets Hall 9:00am-12:30pm Templeton City Park
3:00-6:00pm AT Sunken Gardens 6:00-9:00pm Downtown SLO LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:30 LO 9:00am-1:00pm Paso Downtown Park
DOC BURNSTEIN’S READING LAB 3:00-6:00pm Pismo Beach Pier 12:00-2:30pm AG Village Gazebo
3:30-4:15pm AG LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:00 MB,
INTERNATIONAL LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:30 AT, 10:10 SLO, 10:15 CAM,10:30 AT, 10:30 2:30-6:00pm Morro Bay 800 Main St
children’s day 10:30 AG, 11:00 NI AG,10:30 LO, 11:00 CAY, 11:30 SMG NATIONAL LIBRARY STORYTIME: 11:00 AG
south pole ugly christmas
discovered sweater day
(In 1911)
Beethoven’s
birthday (Born 1770)

edison patents the

phonograph (In 1877)
Wright Bros. day
(1st flight @ Kitty Hawk 1903)
NATIONAL oatmeal
COcoa day bill of rights day NATIONAL MAPLE
(Adopted in 1791) muffin day
SYRUP DAY

20
FARMERS MARKET:
11:30-2:30pm Nipomo: Monarch Club
3:00-6:00pm Grover Bch Ramona Pk
21
FARMERS MARKET:
22
FARMERS MARKET:
23
FARMERS MARKETS:
24
FARMERS MARKETS:
25
FARMERS MARKETS:
26
FARMERS MARKETS:
2-4:30pm Los Osos: 2nd & Santa Maria 3:00-6:00 pm in Paso Robles City Park 8:30-11am AG Spencers Market 3:00-6:00pm Old Porte Fisheries AG 9:00am-12:30pm Paso Robles Wal Mart 8:00-10:30am SLO Promenade
LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:10 SLO 12:30-4:30pm Santa Maria Town Ctr 2:30-5:00pm Spencers Morro Bay 2:30-5:30pm Cambria Main St Vets Hall 9:00am-12:30pm Templeton City Park
3:00-6:00pm AT Sunken Gardens 6:00-9:00pm Downtown SLO LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:30 LO 9:00am-1:00pm Paso Downtown Park
DOC BURNSTEIN’S READING LAB 3:00-6:00pm Pismo Beach Pier 12:00-2:30pm AG Village Gazebo
3:30-4:15pm AG LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:00 MB,
LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:30 AT, 10:10 SLO, 10:15 CAM,10:30 AT, 10:30 2:30-6:00pm Morro Bay 800 Main St
10:30 AG, 11:00 NI AG,10:30 LO, 11:00 CAY, 11:30 SMG LIBRARY STORYTIME: 11:00 AG

roots DAY
go caroling boxing DAY
day
national
chocolate day kwanza begins

solstice NATIONAL
FIRST day OF WINTER
egg nog day christmas
FULL MOON
Christmas eve
humbug day

27
FARMERS MARKET:
28
FARMERS MARKET:
29
FARMERS MARKET:
30
FARMERS MARKETS:
31
FARMERS MARKETS:
1
FARMERS MARKETS:
2
FARMERS MARKETS:
11:30-2:30pm Nipomo: Monarch Club 2-4:30pm Los Osos: 2nd & Santa Maria 3:00-6:00 pm in Paso Robles City Park 8:30-11am AG Spencers Market 3:00-6:00pm Old Porte Fisheries AG 9:00am-12:30pm Paso Robles Wal Mart 8:00-10:30am SLO Promenade
3:00-6:00pm Grover Bch Ramona Pk LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:10 SLO 12:30-4:30pm Santa Maria Town Ctr 2:30-5:00pm Spencers Morro Bay 2:30-5:30pm Cambria Main St Vets Hall 9:00am-12:30pm Templeton City Park
3:00-6:00pm AT Sunken Gardens 6:00-9:00pm Downtown SLO LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:30 LO 9:00am-1:00pm Paso Downtown Park
DOC BURNSTEIN’S READING LAB 3:00-6:00pm Pismo Beach Pier 12:00-2:30pm AG Village Gazebo
3:30-4:15pm AG \ LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:00 MB,
LIBRARY STORYTIME: 10:30 AT, 10:10 SLO, 10:15 CAM,10:30 AT, 10:30 2:30-6:00pm Morro Bay 800 Main St
10:30 AG, 11:00 NI AG,10:30 LO, 11:00 CAY, 11:30 SMG LIBRARY STORYTIME: 11:00 AG
visit
the
zoo bowling new year’s
day ball invented eve
(In 1862)

Card playing day

Chewing gum
patented (In 1869)

Central Coast Family • December 2020 • www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 17

Safety
Coronavirus in Babies & Kids
by Aaron Milstone, M.D., M.H.S.
With all of the sobering news about
the new coronavirus and COVID-19,
the disease the virus causes, worried
moms and dads can generally feel
better about one detail: At present,
the disease seems to be much milder
in babies and children. However,
it’s important to understand recent
reports about pediatric inflammatory
multisystem syndrome, or PIMS,
a very rare condition that might
be related to exposure to the
coronavirus.
Generally, COVID-19 symptoms are
milder in children than in adults. In a
recent study published in Pediatrics
of COVID-19, 90% of those who
tested positive for the disease had
mild symptoms, or none at all.
Fever and cough are common
COVID-19 symptoms among both
adults and children; shortness of
Central Coast Family
especially with cough or fever. when parents set an example by
washing their own hands well and
Doctors in the U.S. and the U.K. frequently.
have noted that a small number
of children between ages 2 and 15 If your child refuses to wash their
have experienced a condition called hands, it may help to motivate them
pediatric inflammatory multisystem with a small reward, such as a sticker.
breath is more likely to be seen in syndrome, or PIMS. Some, but not In any case, recognize all efforts in
adults. Children can have pneumonia, all, of the children with PIMS had washing their hands.
with or without obvious symptoms. tests showing they had exposure
They can also experience sore throat, to SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus If soap and water are not available,
excessive fatigue or diarrhea. that causes COVID-19. Doctors are the next best option is approved
urgently trying to determine if and hand sanitizer containing at least 60%
However, serious illness in children
how PIMS and COVID-19 are related. alcohol.
with COVID-19 is possible, and
parents should stay alert if their child Other Prevention Tips for Families
PIMS can cause inflammation of the
is diagnosed with, or shows signs
blood vessels throughout the body.
of, the disease. In the study, 10% Cough and sneeze with care.
The inflammation can limit blood
of infants with a positive COVID-19 Encourage everyone in the family
flow, damaging the heart and other
test became critically ill. Severe to cough and sneeze into tissues,
organs. PIMS has features in common
illness rates were lower in older instead of hands. Throw away used
with toxic shock syndrome and
children, but there were rare cases of tissues and wash hands after each
Kawasaki disease. Certain symptoms
children in each age group requiring time.
may mean an inflammatory problem.
hospitalization, and one 14-year-old
Look out for: abdominal (belly) pain,
who died. Keep hands off faces. Parents should
vomiting and diarrhea, a red rash,
remind children to avoid touching
red, cracked lips, red eyes, high fever,
It’s important to follow guidelines their face as much as possible. It can
swollen glands on one or both sides
if you think your child is sick with help if kids carry a toy that will keep
of neck, and swollen hands or feet.
COVID-19. Caretakers should their hands busy, but parents should
trust their instincts and contact wash those toys regularly.
PIMS, like Kawasaki disease, is very
a pediatrician if a child seems ill,
rare. But if your child has these
symptoms, call your doctor. PIMS may Keep things clean. Wipe down toys
be treated with a plasma transfusion and surfaces your child touches
to reduce the inflammation and regularly, especially when traveling
protect the heart and other organs or when near a person who is sick.
from possibly lasting damage. Clean surfaces at home and store
cleaners in cabinets that are either
Immediately contact urgent care too high for your child to reach or
if you notice these symptoms in a are secured with childproof cabinet
child: difficulty breathing or catching locks.
breath, inability to keep down
liquids,
new confusion or inability to Address anxiety and stress. Talking
awaken, or bluish lips. things over as a family can help
identify specific fears and clarify
Children are exposed to COVID-19 facts. It also helps for families to
when virus contacts their eyes, discuss a plan in case someone gets
nose, mouth or lungs. The best way sick, or if something else happens
to prevent children from getting that interrupts the normal routine.
COVID-19 is to avoid exposure; avoid
people outside of your isolation pod. Children will look to you when
deciding how to feel about COVID-19.
Teach kids to wash their hands If you feel calm and prepared, they
regularly, with soap and warm water, are likely to feel similarly.
for at least 20 seconds. Help them
keep track of time by singing the ABC
Aaron Milstone is an Associate Hospital
song, which takes about 20 seconds Epidemiologist at Johns Hopkins Hospital
to finish. Kids should wash their and professor of pediatrics at the Johns
hands after using the bathroom, Hopkins University School of Medicine.
sneezing, coughing, or blowing their
nose, before eating (even snacks), Reprinted with permission. © 2020
and immediately after coming inside The Johns Hopkins University, www.
from outdoors. It is most influential hopkinsmedicine.org/health.
• December 2020 • www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 18
Central Coast Family • December 2020 • www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 19
Central Coast Family • December 2020 • www.centralcoastfamily.com • Page 20

2nd FRI every month at 3:00 pm: PAWS TO
READ at Los Osos Library, 2075 Palisades
Ave. Come share your stories with an adoring
listener. Cost: free. Contact: 528-1862.
Feeling hopeless, desperate, or alone?
Every WED 3:00-4:00 pm: PAWS TO READ at
Concerned for someone you care about?
Los Osos Library, 2075 Palisades Ave. Read to
a dog who loves to listen to children. Cost:
free. Contact: 528-1862.
Every SUN 12:00-4:00 pm: Family Funday at
Bang the Drum Brewery, 950 Orcutt Rd, San
Suicide Prevention Luis Obispo. Enjoy the patio to play family-
Mental Health and friendly games and drums! Cost: free. Food
Emotional Support and craft beer available for sale. Contact:
Free bangthedrumbrewery.com or 242-8372.
Confidential
24 hours of every day
Every FRI 6:00 am-4:00 pm: Early Bird Flea
Market at Santa Maria Fairpark, 937 S
A program of Transitions Mental Health Association
Thornburg St. Browse vendors with antiques,
fruits, vegetables, new and used items, and
2nd & 4th SAT every month 12:00-4:00 more! Cost: free. Contact: 258-1765.
pm: Railway Historical Museum at Santa
Every FRI 10:00 am-12:00 pm: Zen Doodle
Maria Transit Center, 400 E Boone St, Santa
Adult Coloring Book Group at Art Center
Maria. This bimonthly opening features
Morro Bay, 835 Main St.  Relax and unwind
a locomotive, boxcar, caboose, railroad
with the new adult coloring books. Cost: free.
artifacts, interpretive exhibits, vintage rolling
Contact: artcentermorrobay.org or 772-2504.
stock, and a diorama to explore. Cost: free.
Contact: 714-4927. Every MON 2:00-5:00 pm: Historic Tour of
Architecture at Monday Club, 1815 Monterey
Every TUE & THU: Youth Aikido Classes at
St, SLO. Cost: free. Contact: themondayclub
Budo Ryu, 3536 S Higuera St, San Luis Obispo.
slo.wildapricot.org or 541-0594.
Kids have fun, stay fit, make friends, gain life
skills, and learn to deal with bullies without Every THU at 10:15 am: Tiny Tunes Music &
becoming one. Aiki-Mites (age 4-6) class Movement at Music Motive, 3440 S Higuera
is 3:00 pm TUE. Aiki-Kids (age 7-12) TUE & St #130, SLO. This parent participation
THU at 4:00 pm. Pre-registration only. Cost: program for ages 1-5 includes activities based
$50-75/mo. Contact: 544-8866 or www. on music psychology and child development.
aikidosanluisobispo.com. Cost: $80 per mo. Contact: 543-0377.
Every WED 10:00-11:00 am: Growing With 2nd FRI every month at 1:00 pm: Book Group
Baby Class at 1230 Marsh St, San Luis Obispo. at Cayucos Library, 310 B St. Join other
Pediatric nurse practitioner and lactation readers to discuss whatever you’re reading
consultant Andrea Herron answers questions and to discover, ponder, and share insights
about feeding, crying, and sleep for babies about what others are reading. Cost: free.
0-10 months. Dads are always welcome! Call Contact: 995-3846.
to reserve a spot. Contact: 543-6988. Every THU 6:30-9:30 pm: SLO Chess Club
Every TUE 7:00-9:00 pm & SAT 2:00-4:00 pm: meets at Carl’s Jr on Santa Rosa St, 1 block
Basic Safety Class at SLO MakerSpace, 81 S W of Foothill, across from Cal-Poly. All ages.
Higuera St, Ste 160 & 180, San Luis Obispo. Get Cost: free. Contact: 441-7210 or slochess.com.
acquainted with the space and equipment Every SAT 10:00 am-2:00 pm: SLO Chess
before using the facility. See website for
Club meets at the big board on Morro Bay
dates and classes. Cost: free for Members
Embarcadero at west end of Morro Bay Blvd
and all SLO County Library cardholders.
(down the stairs). Cost: free. Contact: 441-
Contact: 439-2727 or slomakerspace.com. 7210 or slochess.com.
Every THU 10:00-11:00 am: La Leche League
3rd WED of every month at 6:30 pm:
Mother Support Meetings in North Co, SLO,
Prepared & Natural Childbirth Classes at Twin
AG and SM. Breastfeeding and parenting
Cities Community Hospital, 1220 Las Tablas
support and information offered. Cost: free.
Rd, Templeton. This six-series class includes
Contact: 242-2294 or Facebook.com/lllofslo. lecture, hands-on demos, and technique
MON-THU 8:30-11:30 am: Walk-In Legal Clinic practice. Cost: free. Contact: 434-4654.
in 3rd Floor Atrium of Courthouse Annex,
2nd THU of every month at 6:30 pm:
1035 Palm St, San Luis Obispo and Paso
Breastfeeding Basics at Twin Cities
Robles Courthouse, 901 Park St, Rm 112. Get
Community Hospital, 1100 Las Tablas Rd,
help with divorce, child and spousal support, Templeton. Learn about practical aspects
domestic violence, guardianship, civil
of feeding your newborn from a Lactation
harassment, and name or gender change.
Consultant. Cost: free. Contact: 239-4443.
Every TUE & THU at 1:30 pm: Divorce & Child
Every THU-FRI 12:00-5:00 pm & SAT 11:00
Support Workshops at SLO Court Support am-5:00 pm: Exploration Station Interactive
Services, 1120 Mill St, Ste A, San Luis Obispo Science Center welcomes families at 867
and Paso Robles Courthouse, 901 Park St, Ramona Ave, Grover Beach. Cost: $2-3.
Paso Robles. Help for divorce, child support, Contact: 473-1421 or explorationstation.org.
custody and visitation orders. Overview of
legal process followed by form prep and 2nd THU of every month 6:00-7:00 pm: Grief
questions. Cost: free. Contact: 788-3418. Support Group at Central Coast Hospice, 253
Granada Dr, Ste D, San Luis Obispo. Free for
1st & 3rd SAT every month at 2:00 pm: FAMILY
anyone suffering the loss of a loved one who
MOVIE at Los Osos Library, 2075 Palisades is in need of support. Contact: 540-6020.
Ave. Enjoy popcorn and a G/PG movie. Call for
2nd SAT of every month FEB-NOV at 9:00
title. Cost: free. Contact: 528-1862.
Central Coast Family • December 2020 • www.centralcoastfamily.com
Local Resources
am: Santa Maria Parks & Rec Dept offers free
docent-led nature walks in Los Flores Ranch,
6271 Dominion Rd, Santa Maria. Cost: free.
Contact: 925-0951.
2nd MON every month 6:30-8:00 pm:
Caregiver Support Group at Cayucos
Community Church, Ocean Ave & S 3rd St.
Free support for caregivers helping with
long-term illness, memory loss, dementia,
and Alzheimer’s. Contact: 458-7484.
Every MON 10:00 am-2:00 pm: Remain
Independent Despite Vision Loss at Santa
Maria Terrace, 1405 E Main St. New ways of
doing daily tasks are taught by the Braille
Institute, such as home management,
traveling, and using talking library books.
Contact: 462-1225.
2nd & 4th MON every month at 6:30 pm: MOPS
(Mothers of Preschoolers) meet at Pacific
Christian Church, 3435 Santa Maria Way,
Santa Maria. Childcare is provided.  Contact:
934-3491 or www.pacificchristian.net.
Every TUE 3:00-6:00 pm & FRI 3:00-5:30 pm:
Teen Wellness Program at Arroyo Grande
EOC Health Services Clinic, 1152 E Grand
Ave. Health services, including reproductive
health, in a safe environment to screen,
assess, and provide intervention. Appts
preferred. Contact: 489-4026.
1st WED every month at 9:00 am: Senior
Health Screening at First United Methodist
Church, 275 N Halcyon Rd, Arroyo Grande.
Free and low-cost services for ages 50
and older: blood pressure, pulse, weight,
cholesterol, screening for anemia and
diabetes, nutritional counseling, and medical
referrals. Contact: 481-2692 or 788-0827.
1st WED every month at 12:00 pm: Disabled
American Veterans luncheon at Veterans
Memorial Bldg, 313 W Tunnell St, Santa Maria.
Contact: 345-0402.
Every WED 5:30-7:00 pm: Widowed Support
Group at New Life Church, 990 James Way,
Rm 14, Pismo Beach. Offered by Hospice of
SLO Co. Contact: 544-2266 or hospiceslo.org.
Every TUE at 7:00 pm: Al-Anon Family
Support Group at Luis OASIS Senior Center,
420 Soares Ave, Orcutt. Contact: 937-9750.
3rd WED every month at 7:00 pm: How to
Survive Divorce seminar at SLO Women’s
Community Center, 1124 Nipomo St #D, SLO.
Tips for handling family law issues. Cost: $10.
Contact: 544-9313 to register.
RISE offers: weekly drop-In support groups
for sexual assault survivors; 24 hour crisis
line; advocacy; peer counseling; prevention,
empowerment and education. Contact: 545-
8888 or www.sarpcenter.org.
Every SAT 11:00 am-3:00 pm: ADOPT A PET at
Petco, 2051 Theater Dr, in Paso Robles. Cats
from NCHS and dogs from Short n’ Sweet
Dog Rescue. Contact: 466-5403.
Every MON 2:00-4:00 pm & WED 3:00-5:00 pm:
Jacks’ Adaptive Toy Lending Library-Jack’s
Helping Hand at Central Coast Gymnastics, 21
Zaca Lane, #100, San Luis Obispo. Traditional
and adaptive toys for children with all types
of disabilities to check out. In-home appts
available. Cost: free! Contact: 547-1914 or
www.jackshelpinghand.org.
Every TUE 2:00-5:00 pm & FRI 4:00-7:00 pm:
Jacks’ Adaptive Toy Lending Library - Jack’s
Helping Hand at Pat’s Place in Nipomo
Recreation Community Rm, 671 W Tefft St,
Ste 2, Nipomo.  Toys for kids with all types
of disabilities to check out. In-home appts
avail. Cost-free! Contact: 547-1914 or www.
jackshelpinghand.org.
Every TUE 5:30-6:30 pm: Citizenship Classes
at SLO County Library, 995 Palm St, SLO.
All classes are bilingual, with all materials
covered in 8 classes. No registration required.
Cost: free. Contact: slolibrary.org or 781-4187.
Every FRI at 7:00 pm: Senior Ballroom
Dancing at Madonna Inn. Look left of the
bandstand for sign: Dancers. Dance, chat and
listen to good music. No fees; no dues; just
fun! Contact: 489-5481 or dg17@juno.com.
Literacy Council for San Luis Obispo County
has an ongoing and urgent need for volunteer
tutors and offers free training in SLO. Contact:
541-4219 or www.sloliteracy.org.
1st THU every month at 6:15 pm: Commission
on the Status of Women meets at Coast
National Bank, 500 Marsh St, SLO. This
advisory group to SLO County Board of
Supervisors identifies issues of concern to
women not the focus of other advocacy or
advisory organizations. Contact: 788-3406.
Morro Bay Museum of Natural History
Adventures With Nature & Mind Walks
schedule is at: ccnha.org/naturewalks.html.
Central Coast Commission for Senior Citizens
offers free services: Senior Connection to
connect callers with local resources; one on
one Medicare help, referrals for long term
care, and help with billing and appeals; Vial
of Life kits with medical info for emergency
responders; a Senior Resource Directory for
SLO and SB counties, and more. Contact: 925-
9554 or www.centralcoastseniors.org.
Hospice of SLO County provides free grief
counseling, individual and family support,
counseling, crisis intervention, and wellness
education to those with a life-limiting illness,
their families, and the bereaved in SLO and
Paso. Contact: 544-2266.
Volunteer as a Good Neighbor!  Make a
difference in the life of an older or disabled
adult. Training is monthly at Wilshire
Community Services, 285 South St, Ste J, SLO.
Contact: 547-7025 x 17.
Volunteer at San Luis Obispo Museum of Art!
Stop by at 1010 Broad St (Mission Plaza) or
email volunteer@sloma.org for information
about multiple volunteer opportunities.
San Luis Obispo Senior Center offers health
screening, legal services, meals, exercise,
bridge, and bingo at 1445 Santa Rosa St.
Contact: 781-7306.
Central Coast Astronomical Society sponsors
a Dark Sky Star Party every month at sunset.
CCAS sponsors guest speakers and public
education programs. Find the CCAS event
calendar, location and weather condition
updates, and local resources at: www.
centralcoastastronomy.org.
San Luis Coastal Adult School’s Parent
Participation Program offers Core Parenting
and Enrichment classes at centers in San Luis
Obispo, Morro Bay, and Los Osos. Parent and
child activity classes, individual peer support,
and education for parents and caregivers.
Contact: 549-1222 or parentparticipation.org.
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