Wednesday, 31 July 2019

VNA Providing Professional Care, Trusted Compassion You Deserve

"Cortland J Young Appointed to NHPCO My Hospice Ambassadors Program”

Monterey, CA, August 01, 2019 - Mr. Edo Banach, JD, President and CEO of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO) announced today that Cortland J. Young, RN CHPN NEA-BC ACHCE has been appointed into the My Hospice Ambassadors Program. My Hospice Ambassadors play an invaluable role in educating and forging relationships with Members of Congress, enhancing awareness of hospice and palliative care issues, and leading grassroots efforts in their state.


Mr. Banach has appointed Cortland Young to the California My Hospice Ambassador’s position for 2019-2020 Congressional Calendar Year. Mr. Young’s duties as Ambassador will be to participate in the Hospice Action Network (HAN) Summer 2019 three-part grassroots webinar series.

The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO), is the oldest and largest nonprofit organization representing hospice and palliative care professionals in the United States, with its affiliate the Hospice Action Network.

“I would like to congratulate you on your acceptance into the My Hospice Ambassadors Program. We [NHCPO] appreciate your leadership and commitment on behalf of the hospice and palliative care community and look forward to working with you on ensuring that individuals and their families continue to receive high-quality, compassionate, and person-centered hospice and palliative care.” wrote Mr. Banach.

Mr. Young resides in Salinas and is the Chief Clinical Officer for the VNA & Hospice. Since 1951, the not-for-profit VNA has provided a wide range of home health care, serving Monterey, San Benito, Santa Cruz and South Santa Clara counties. VNA is dedicated to providing the highest quality health care to residents of the Central Coast by meeting their individual needs in a caring, effective, honorable, and accessible manner.

Media Contact: Jane Russo, 831-372-6668, From: Central Coast VNA & Hospice www.ccvna.com

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.ccvna.com

Acclaimed spiritual mentor Shreekalp leads Divine Harmony Therapeutic Retreat, Sept. 13-15 at Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa

Just like the body, the soul needs occasional, mindful cleansing. But how does one begin to dissolve the dark clouds that surround us — to begin living with more joy, love and clarity?

Monterey, CA, July 31, 2019 - Just like the body, the soul needs occasional, mindful cleansing. But how does one begin to dissolve the dark clouds that surround us — to begin living with more joy, love and clarity?

See Video https://www.dropbox.com/s/xz73mc3vs6q09uy/DHTR_Commercial_Edit%201.1.mp4?dl=0

It’s called spiritual detox therapy, an integral element of the unique and life-changing Divine Harmony Therapeutic Retreat on Sept. 13-15. This immersive experience is led by Shreekalp, an acclaimed spiritual mentor, life designer and companion guide who helps others lead fulfilled lives.

Held within a serene and peaceful environment at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa, the retreat helps provide answers amid the chaos of a turbulent world. It walks attendees through various genres — or worlds — of human life. Attendees will become mesmerized with delightful experiences of the Golden World, the Physical World, the Mental World, and the Emotional World. The end result is a sense of pure joy, happiness, peace and a completely different perspective of life never experienced before.

This all-inclusive retreat includes a two-night stay at the Hyatt, meals and fees for multiple sessions filled with various practical activities and discussion. Total cost is $1,100 per person (with early-bird and group rates available) at www.destinationdivineharmony.com

Shreekalp designed this therapeutic experience to give people an opportunity to be liberated from the rancor of the modern fast-paced life. He believes that when people wholesomely connect with nature, the entire ecosystem of the human body — physical, mental and emotional — gets purified.

This unique, total-immersion retreat — beyond the spirituality attached to Yoga or Reiki — includes carefully crafted activities with the goal of attaining a state of higher consciousness.

Shreekalp has combined the holistic and spiritual aspects of different ideologies to create unique, contemporary therapy for the modern lifestyle.

Shreekalp runs this retreat along with a set of professionals with many years of experience at senior management level in various Fortune 500 companies. People all over the world have benefited from this therapy, feeling mentally and emotionally light, happy and rejuvenated. Past participants have found increased positivity, stability of their mind, clarity in thinking and increased focus and attention.

This unique therapeutic experience is derived from an overall ecosystem of:

  • peaceful and serene atmosphere of the venue;
  • sumptuous yet balanced meals;
  • close-to-nature yet comfortable accommodations.

The length of each therapy session ranges from 1-2 hours, with a soothing flow that begins with the removal of negative energy. The spiritual detoxification during the retreat is natural and long-lasting.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.destinationdivineharmony.com

Thursday, 25 July 2019

Event Open To The Public Tickets On Sale Now Inaugural Concours at Pasadera Set for August 9

More than 50 collectible cars to vie for awards by Tiffany & Co.

Monterey, CA, July 26, 2019 - The Club at Pasadera (TCAP) is proud to announce the first-ever Concours at Pasadera August 9 from 4-7pm, bringing together a spectacular showcase of collectible cars, specials guests and local legends of the auto world.

Accompanied by free-flowing Champagne and heavy hors d’oeuvres, attendees will enjoy an up-close-and-personal visit with more than 50 beautiful cars in two categories and four award classes: Vintage/Pre-1940 cars; Domestic and International automobiles built before 1990; and Modified vehicles enhanced in design and mechanical performance by the collector. The special category will be Modern Classic 1990-2020, covering a full generation of automobiles reflecting design influences and technical achievements from the recent past, present and future.

Among the diverse array of collectible cars scheduled for showing are vehicles from Aston-Martin, Austin-Healy, Bentley, Buick, Chevrolet, Cobra, Denzel, Ferrari, Ford, Jeep, Jensen, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, MG, Nissan, Panoz, Pontiac, Porsche, VW and more. One car not to be missed is a SEMA exhibition showpiece – a 1950 Buick Woody – as well as a GTO Ferrari, a 1966 VW pickup/Transporter and the new Aston Martin DB11.

Participating as the panel of vetting authorities will be Jeffrey Ernest, Bill Finkbeiner and Eric Keener. Judges include Coppa Bella Motors owner Steve Fremgen, a top Ferrari expert; and Laguna Seca CEO Tim McGrane. Collectively, they have worked a wide range of major events from Concours d’Elegance to Concorso Italiano and more.

Monterey Motorsports owner Rick Barnett, who is leading the organization for the event, will serve as Master of Ceremonies. Tiffany & Co. is furnishing the awards for exhibitor participation, the four classes and Best of Show.

A limited number of tickets are available and are just $75 for adults 21+ and $35 for children 20 and under. Admission includes valet parking and all hospitality. Tickets go on sale July 18 via https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-concours-at-pasadera-tickets-65594690485.

Among the many sponsors are Elite Auto Films of Monterey, Gene’s Import Auto Body, Hagerty Insurance, Martinelli’s and Porsche of Monterey. Part of the proceeds will benefit the Bridge Restoration Ministry in Pacific Grove, which helps those struggling with addictions and helps restore them back to God, family, work and community.

TCAP Managing Member Chris Laver commented, “Everyone has their own car stories, and it’s these vivid, personal memories that sparked our desire to create our debut Concours while raising funds for an important local cause supported by many of our Club members. We promise everyone a first-class event that is sure to become a must-attend annual attraction.”

Family-friendly. Unbuttoned luxury. The only Jack Nicklaus Signature course on the Central Coast.

And so much more. That’s The Club at Pasadera.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
https://theclubatpasadera.com/

Monday, 22 July 2019

Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History Announces $2.1 Million Campaign to Reimagine and Reshape the Museum Experience

Deeply rooted in one of the most ecologically diverse regions in the world, the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History aims to inspire discovery, wonder and stewardship.

Pacific Grove, CA, July 22, 2019 - Deeply rooted in one of the most ecologically diverse regions in the world, the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History aims to inspire discovery, wonder and stewardship.

Through history, science and a strong bond with its community, this inclusive museum in downtown Pacific Grove has transformed itself into a community and educational hub that reimagines and reshapes the typical museum experience.

To continue its growth and service to the community, the museum has announced a nearly $2.1 million, multi-stage capital campaign, beginning with Phase 1 — an interactive bird exhibit.

On Aug. 28, the museum will unveil “The Amazing Adaptations of Birds,” an exhibit that houses one of the best single-county collections in the country. This first of nine phases in the museum’s renovation includes restoring the birds to their original splendor, adding design upgrades, and installing several new interactive elements.

The unveiling will include a public gathering on August 28th at 5:30 p.m. with an address by the museum’s executive director Jeanette Kihs.

On Sept. 5, the Pacific Grove Chamber of Commerce and Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce will hold a dual ribbon-cutting from 5–7 p.m., with both city mayors in attendance.

The museum invites the community to participate in this united campaign to help increase and deepen the blueprint on families and the natural world through the creation of the following spaces:

Children’s Exhibit — BUGS!

The museum already delivers free programming to more than 10,000 children each year. This exhibit will allow children ages 0-5 to explore science in a hands-on manner. Featuring multiple local habitats and the invertebrates that inhabit them, this space will serve as a kinetic exploratory space for young ones, a touchstone for local young families to visit regularly, and a launching point for the museum’s youth-focused programming.

The Changes of Monterey County

The local ecosystems are incredibly diverse, and provide visitors with an opportunity to see all that the region has to offer. It also allows the museum the opportunity to use those local environments to tell the story of change — particularly in regard to the climate. Using these stories of the past and present, the museum will show how current behaviors can help or hinder the health of ecosystems.

The Power of Collections

Museum collections were the original internet: references to our history, organisms from near and far, and a warehouse devoted to our collective historical memory and scientific knowledge. This exhibit will illustrate the important new roles old collections have in the newest sciences. By studying collections of the past, we can make better predictions for the future.

Museum Entrance

A remodeled entrance will be the museum’s opportunity to create a new, more welcoming reception area. Extending the front and creating a more efficient entry system will improve the visitor experience and better introduce the museum and its stunning location through small exhibits.

The Cultures of Monterey Bay

The Monterey Bay area has been called home by a multitude of cultures over the past few centuries. From early Native Californians to Chinese, Italian and Portuguese, many groups came to fish, ranch and farm in this fertile place. This exhibit will explore and highlight the stories that make up the region’s rich cultural tapestry.

Nature’s Backyard

There is no better way to learn about nature than to be outdoors. The museum plans to transform the backyard into a space for families to share in the exploration of nature, through active play areas and dig pits, all surrounded by a lush native garden.

Catering kitchen

Nothing creates community like a good meal, and events are a fantastic way for guests to experience the museum in a new way. A new kitchen will allow the museum to be open longer, create new audiences, and serve in more creative ways.

Open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., the museum is at 165 Forest Ave., Pacific Grove. For more information, call 648-5716, or visit www.pgmuseum.org.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.pgmuseum.org

Saturday, 20 July 2019

Pests Out Now, Offers Unique Non-Toxic, Non-Invasive, Compassionate Approach to Pest Control

Sisters-Founded and Run Business To Offer First Education Seminar at Capitola Community Center Thursday, August 29th

Monterey, CA, July 20, 2019 - Pests Out Now, which was founded in 2017 by sisters Marilyn and Patricia Smith, is a unique non-toxic, non-invasive and compassionate approach to pest control that doesn’t use toxic aerosol sprays, chemicals, poisonous pellets or traps. The sisters, who both have extensive experience and knowledge in various wellness practices with people, use elevated frequencies of Universal Light to treat significant, life challenges in health and well-being, and now with pest control.

Using techniques developed over many years of experience and instruction, Pests Out Now relocates pests to a neutral area away from your living, work or backyard seating areas. These critters, no longer pests, live independently in harmony with nature in a location that doesn’t interfere with your daily activities, never to return to your home or office.

Results from using this approach have been 100% effective!

The sisters are offering their first education seminar open to the public:

Date: Thursday, August 29th
Location: Capitola Community Center 4400 Jade St, Capitola, CA 95010
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Cost: Complimentary

Seminar size is limited to 40 attendees

RSVP to: Contact@ Pests Out Now or 831-724-5107

The Seminar will cover topics such as:

Will Pests Out Now Work for me?

How modern science has verified that elevated frequencies of light have a strong effect upon the material world.

How “Universal Light” represents the high frequencies of energy used in their pest-relocation services. Universal Light resonates with all of life, and has a nurturing quality that is very attractive. Humans, plants, animals — even pests — are drawn to the light’s nourishing properties.

How when Universal Light is directed to an area, pests move to this area and make it their abode. The healing quality of Universal Light draws them in, and welcomes them to their new home. Their home is pleasant, and they are quite content to remain there — except under conditions that may disrupt their home, such as flooding, digging up the ground, or changing

WHAT TYPES OF PESTS CAN BE RELOCATED?

•Ants
•Spiders
•Cockroaches
•Silverfish
•Moths
•Centipedes
•Termites
• Mice and rats
• Squirrels
• Racoons

Other pests will be considered, depending on the type of pests, infestation and severity. Contact Pests Out Now if the survey does not cover the issues outlined above.

About Marilyn and Patricia Smith
Sisters Marilyn and Patricia Smith were born and raised in Watsonville, California. After high school their paths diverged, Patricia attended the University of Oregon Health Sciences Center, Portland Oregon, while Marilyn attended the College of Notre Dame in Belmont, as well as St. Mary’s in Moraga, both in California.

Marilyn became an educator, including as a Resource Specialist Program teacher and school administrator. Patricia worked as a registered nurse and hospital administrator, as well as stints with Amnesty International and as a healer in India for four years.

About 17 years ago both discovered the teachings and methods of Master Zhi Gang Sha, both becoming, after intensive training and instruction, Master Teachers. Marilyn is working full-time as a Master Teacher, traveling to other states and countries to do consultations, teach and train. She is also the author of the book “Gratitude: A Key to Happiness,” and narrated Master Sha’s audiobooks “Soul Communication.” and “ Soul Wisdom”

Patricia, after years in nursing and the medical profession, met Master Sha in 2001, training intensively with him, also becoming a Master Teacher as well as opening her own chronic pain and healing consulting service, Patricia Smith Consulting. One of the catalysts for this, prior to meeting Master Sha, was healing from a server injury using Qigong a holistic system of coordinated body posture, movement, breathing, and meditation used for health, healing and spirituality.

Their career paths converged with Master Sha and now with Pests Out Now, which follows the teachings of Master Sha’s teachings including helping people, reconnecting people with their souls and aligning of the soul, heart, mind and body, to uplift every aspect of life.

CONTACT PESTS OUT NOW:
Email only: Contact@PestsOutNow.com

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.PestsOutNow.com

Friday, 19 July 2019

“VNA Receives A Grant Award from The Marina Foundation”

VNA is proud to announce it has received a grant award of $5,000 from The Marina Foundation to provide complimentary therapies to Marina Veterans on VNA hospice service.

Monterey, CA, July 19, 2019 - VNA is proud to announce it has received a grant award of $5,000 from The Marina Foundation to provide complimentary therapies to Marina Veterans on VNA hospice service. These therapies include massage, Reiki, Beauticians, and Pet therapy to maximize comfort and promote overall well-being.


VNA is dedicated to providing the highest quality of health care to residents of the Central Coast by meeting their needs in a caring, effective, honorable, and accessible manner.

This granting organization provides local programs with the resources that they need to strengthen and improve the lives of our Marina Veterans. VNA is proud to partner with The Marina Foundation to provide comprehensive and compassionate services that benefit The Marina community.

Since 1951, the not-for-profit VNA has provided a wide range of home health care, serving Monterey, San Benito, Santa Cruz and South Santa Clara counties. VNA places an emphasis on individual patient needs and goals, providing care in an ethical, effective, compassionate and fiscally responsible manner.

VNA Community Services brings wellness to our community. Well known as the community immunizers; experienced, professional registered nurses provide on- site flu and vaccine services. As the only travel health clinic, VNA provides comprehensive consultation and immunizations for International travelers. Health screenings and education are offered to corporate business, in the field or in the boardroom. Nurses provide services to local schools to meet state mandated screenings, vaccines and staff education.

VNA Home Health provides intermittent care, covered primarily by insurance, through the expert skills of our trained and certified clinicians, to assist patients, families, and caregivers in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes. The home health division offers key specialty program, including cardiac, diabetic, orthopedic, palliative care and connections (a self-referral program). These individual programs have advanced practice clinicians and program expertise. VNA Hospice is specialized type of care for those facing a life-limiting illness, their families and their caregiver. The care involves a team-oriented approach to expert medical care, pain management, and emotional and spiritual support expressly tailored to the patient's needs and wishes. A key component to our team is VNA Volunteers who give their time to improve the lives of others. For the community, grief and loss support are offered to individuals or groups.

From: Central Coast VNA and Hospice www.ccvna.com
Media Contact: Jane Russo, 831-372-6668

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.ccvna.com

Thursday, 18 July 2019

VNA Providing Professional Care, Trusted Compassion You Deserve

“VNA & Hospice Receives A Grant Award from Community Foundation for Monterey County”

Monterey, CA, July 17, 2019 - VNA & Hospice is proud to announce it has received a grant award of $35,000 from Community Foundation’s donor advised funds (Lauralie and J Irvine Fund, Frank Pye Smith MD Medical Facilities Fund, and The F Robert Nunes Family Fund) to provide phone and computer security upgrades. “We’re proud to support nonprofit organizations like the VNA through our Community Impact grantmaking program that also provides opportunities for our donors to fulfill their philanthropic wishes.” – Laurel Lee-Alexander, CFMC Vice President of Grants and Programs.


VNA is dedicated to providing the highest quality of health care to residents of the Central Coast by meeting their needs in a caring, effective, honorable, and accessible manner.

These granting organizations provide local programs with the resources that they need to strengthen and improve the lives of our Central Coast residents. VNA is proud to partner with Community Foundation for Monterey County to provide comprehensive and compassionate services across Monterey, Santa Cruz, San Benito and South Santa Clara counties.

Since 1951, the not-for-profit VNA has provided a wide range of home health care, serving Monterey, San Benito, Santa Cruz and South Santa Clara counties. VNA places an emphasis on individual patient needs and goals, providing care in an ethical, effective, compassionate and fiscally responsible manner.

VNA Community Services brings wellness to our community. Well known as the community immunizers; experienced, professional registered nurses provide on- site flu and vaccine services. As the only travel health clinic, VNA provides comprehensive consultation and immunizations for International travelers. Health screenings and education are offered to corporate business, in the field or in the boardroom. Nurses provide services to local schools to meet state mandated screenings, vaccines and staff education.

VNA Home Health provides intermittent care, covered primarily by insurance, through the expert skills of our trained and certified clinicians, to assist patients, families, and caregivers in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes. The home health division offers key specialty program, including cardiac, diabetic, orthopedic, palliative care and connections (a self-referral program). These individual programs have advanced practice clinicians and program expertise. VNA Hospice is specialized type of care for those facing a life-limiting illness, their families and their caregiver. The care involves a team-oriented approach to expert medical care, pain management, and emotional and spiritual support expressly tailored to the patient's needs and wishes. A key component to our team is VNA Volunteers who give their time to improve the lives of others. For the community, grief and loss support are offered to individuals or groups.

Media Contact: Jane Russo, 831-372-6668
Central Coast VNA & Hospice www.ccvna.com

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.ccvna.com

Tuesday, 16 July 2019

Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History sponsors special 6-day Monarch Migration tour to Mexico

Among the many miracles of nature, it’s difficult to match the marvelous and mystifying migration of the monarch butterfly.

Pacific Grove, CA, July 17, 2019 - Among the many miracles of nature, it’s difficult to match the marvelous and mystifying migration of the monarch butterfly.

Recognized by their vivid, orange-and-black wings, these slight insects (weighing less than a dime) are better known for an instinctive internal compass that guides them on an ancestral migration from the shores of Pacific Grove to central Mexico and back.

To honor this well-traveled butterfly (Danaus plexippus) more appropriately called “wanderer,” the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History invites the public to follow this remarkable path on a six-day trip to Mexico from Feb. 8-13, 2020.

Stand amid the fir-covered mountains and witness an awe-inspiring spectacle firsthand as the well-traveled monarchs flutter, dip and swoop overhead. Participants will see countless millions on the roost in the early morning, as well as in flight at midday, feeding on wildflowers and watering at streams.

Program highlights:

• Hike or ride horseback to two monarch sanctuaries, where the butterflies finish their 2,000-mile journey, flying up to 100 miles a day at heights of 10,000 feet.
• Spend time exploring the colonial town of Angangueo in far eastern Mexican state of Michoacán, home of the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve.
• Explore the pyramids of Teotihuacaìn, one of the most architecturally significant Mesoamerican sites of pre- Columbian times.
• Visit Mexico City’s Zoìcalo, the heartbeat of the city and one of the largest squares in the world, along with the historic Metropolitan Cathedral.
• This interactive experience includes: expert naturalist guide; accommodations; activities and entrance fees; in-country transportation; meals and beverages; carbon offsetting; donation to Pacific Grove Museum; and departure tax.

Cost for this life-changing trip is $2,065, and does not include international airfare, gratuities or items of a personal nature.

I saw two wonders on our trip to Mexico. One wonder was the tens of millions of butterflies that we saw. The numbers were staggering. It’s hard to find words to describe what we saw. The other wonder was seeing firsthand how the local community protects the butterflies and the environment where the monarchs overwinter. Mexico City and the ruins were great, too! — Craig Noke, previous participant

For information on this excursion, contact Juan Govea (govea@pgmuseum.org) or visit holbrook.travel/pgmnh-mx20.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.pgmuseum.org

Monday, 15 July 2019

60th Annual Artichoke Food & Wine Festival Approves Donations of Proceeds to 15 Community Organizations

The Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival has been dedicated to informing the public about the unique qualities of artichokes, but one of its main purposes is to also give back to the community.

Castroville, California, July 15, 2019 — The Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival has been dedicated to informing the public about the unique qualities of artichokes, but one of its main purposes is to also give back to the community.


Proceeds from the 2019 festival are being used to support 501c3 community organizations and activities that align with the festival’s mission. The board of directors of the 2019 Artichoke Food & Wine Festival approved donations to the following 15 organizations:

Hope, Horses & Kids - $2,200
North County Middle School Library - $2,500
Marina Lions Club - $2,000
Ashleigh Nicole Swain Memorial Scholarship - $2,000
Golden State Elite Gymnastics - $1,800
Cursillo in Christianity - $2,300
Sun Street Center - $1,000
North Salinas Athletic Booster Club (Baseball Team) - $1,000
Manzanita Park Playground - $1,000
North County Wrestling Team - $1,000
Ord Terrace Elementary School - $1,000
Monterey High Girls Basketball Team - $1,000
North County Bulldogs Cheer - $1,000
North County Recreation and Park District (Party on the Plaza) - $2,000
Ariel Theatrical Inc. for Transportation $500

The festival’s first-ever sponsor dinner was held June 27, 2019, at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center in Monterey. More than 100 guests attended and 44 sponsors honored. The event was catered by Showoff BBQ, with Grandma’s Catering providing a no-host bar, Ocean Mist Farms providing artichokes, and the Artichoke Festival board and committee members providing table service and support.

The 60th anniversary Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival was held June 1-2, 2019, at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center.

About the Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival
The Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival began in 1959 and has since developed to become a harvest festival to celebrate the iconic artichoke and region known as the “Artichoke Center of the World.” The festival features family-fun events for all ages and has been a primary source of funding for local non-profit groups for many years. For more information, visit http://artichokefestival.org/.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.artichokefestival.org/

Wednesday, 10 July 2019

El Pájaro Community Development Corporation Marks 40 years of Providing Equal access to Opportunities for Small business Owners

In 1979, Watsonville became the epicenter of social change as the community rallied to support Latino and Spanish-speaking business owners.

Watsonville, CA, July 11, 2019 - In 1979, Watsonville became the epicenter of social change as the community rallied to support Latino and Spanish-speaking business owners.

Protecting rights and providing equal access to business opportunities helped provide a voice to the voiceless, while giving rise to El Pájaro Community Development Corporation.

El Pájaro CDC celebrates 40 years of transforming people’s lives through entrepreneurship by taking the confusion, guesswork and complexity out of starting small businesses. By offering technical, legal, financial and managerial assistance, El Pájaro CDC has helped launch and nurture countless small businesses while bolstering economic development within the community.

“If you give someone an opportunity in can change lives, and lead to generations of success,” said Carmel Hererra, executive director of El Pajaro CDC. “To see a journey from farmworker to entrepreneur — many started that way when they came to us — is so rewarding.”

El Pájaro CDC also offers low-cost and free bilingual business education and training workshops to low-income entrepreneurs. Workshops cover business plan preparation, marketing and sales, customer service, bookkeeping, computer basics, business management, and financial literacy.

The growth of El Pájaro CDC has been monumental. In 1997, it created a retail business incubator at 23 Beach St. in downtown Watsonville to assist low- to moderate-income, Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs with starting and operating a successful business. Named Plaza Vigil, the incubator houses dozens of businesses, with another 44 food purveyors using the separate Commercial Kitchen Incubator Program, a fully equipped, shared-use facility at 412 Riverside Drive. By using the commercial kitchen services, local food entrepreneurs can save the costs of restaurant-grade equipment and county licenses that can restrict their ability to start or expand food businesses.

In 1999, El Pájaro CDC board decided to expand its mission to include housing development. El Pájaro CDC was one of three partners that developed Northgate Apartments in Watsonville, an 84-unit, affordable housing complex for families of 4-7 members.

Following a charter expansion in 2007, El Pájaro CDC now serves Santa Cruz, Monterey and San Benito counties, and is available to anyone with plans to open a small business. While many businesses helped by El Pájaro CDC are food and produce-related, all business concepts — lawyers, mechanics, contractors, small farmers, landscapers, musicians and more — are eligible for assistance.

To celebrate its 40th anniversary, El Pájaro CDC will hold a special Tacos and Tapas event on Thursday, Aug. 29 (6-9 p.m.) at the organization’s Commercial Kitchen Incubator at 412 Riverside Drive in Watsonville.

“It’s a celebration of a very strong legacy of passion for helping the community,” Hererra said. “We’re grateful for everyone who has played a role in helping us grow.”

As El Pajaro CDC looks back proudly on 40 years, it still looks forward to the future, including a handful of projects planned for the next two years, including:

● A kitchen retail store at Plaza Vigil Incubator named Food Artezano, offering food products created in the kitchen incubator, as well as local art, including painting and sculpture, ceramics, T-shirts, postcards and jewelry. It will also include an online store.

● A 5,000-square-foot, small-batch, co-packing facility at the kitchen incubator, allowing food businesses to expand their business and markets.

● A new microloan program that will give small businesses more control, better access and expanded loan opportunities.

● Improved programs to help entrepreneurs manage their financing, credit, record-keeping and more.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.elpajarocdc.org/

Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History hosts innovative leaders of Think Beyond Plastic as part of its Hardcore Natural History series

Thinking beyond plastic represents one of the most daunting challenges we face in our efforts to protect the health of a planet in peril.

Pacific Grove, CA, July 11, 2019 - Thinking beyond plastic represents one of the most daunting challenges we face in our efforts to protect the health of a planet in peril.

On Thursday, July 18, the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History will host two leaders of a global multidisciplinary effort to identify and commercialize upstream innovations that eliminate plastic pollution.

Daniella Russo and Greg Baxter, co-founders of Think Beyond Plastic, will discuss their work with local agricultural supply chains as part of the museum’s Hardcore Natural History Series.

Called “The Plastic Link in the Agriculture Supply Chain,” the talk takes place from 6:30-8 p.m. Available through the museum website at www.pgmuseum.org, tickets are $5 for members, $10 for nonmembers and $15 at the door.

To ensure a rich pipeline of innovation, Think Beyond Plastic is building an “innovation ecosystem” that connects industry, investors and innovators. To support this ecosystem, Think Beyond Plastic operates an innovation center with a network of regional user facilities for design, testing, characterization and prototyping across the planet, as well as the International Space Station.

Russo and Baxter believe that intractable environmental challenges can be addressed by harnessing the forces of innovation and entrepreneurship, and the power of the markets to do good.

Russo is an associate professor at the Middlebury Institute of International Studies graduate program in International Policy and Management. She serves on the board of numerous NGOs and businesses. Russo has started and run numerous high-tech businesses, and her experience includes executive management from start-up phase through an IPO (such as Frame Technology, Infoseek and others), as well as Fortune-500 companies (Sun Microsystems, and Xerox PARC).

Baxter is a former program director with the Division of Industrial Innovation and Partnerships at the National Science Foundation, the world's largest early-stage investment vehicle for startup companies. The program's mission is to transform scientific discovery into societal and economic benefit by catalyzing private sector commercialization of technological innovations. He is a longtime mentor and member of the Founders Board of Advisors at StartX Stanford Student Startup Accelerator and was a fellow with the Innovation Accelerator, a public private partnership with the National Science Foundation to facilitate the commercialization efforts of small businesses.

For more information, visit www.thinkbeyondplastic.com

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.thinkbeyondplastic.com

Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History Hosts Exciting, Informative Events for Both Children and Adults From July to September 2019

The Museum is Now Open 7 Days A Week.

Pacific Grove, CA, July 11, 2019 — The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History has a number of fun and informative events for both children and adults on tap for July to September 2019.

Here are the events scheduled so far for July – September, 2019. Events are held at the Museum, except where noted, at 165 Forest Ave., Pacific Grove.


Jul 10, 2019

SUSTAINABLE PACIFIC GROVE: CAN PG BE PLASTIC-FREE?

Why is it critical for us to totally rethink our dependence on convenience and single-use plastics? What can we do to support the city and our businesses during these changing times? How does supporting these city codes help in joining the Zero Waste effort? Join us to learn the answers to these questions and more!

Jul 18, 2019

HARDCORE NATURAL HISTORY SERIES — THE PLASTIC LINK IN THE AGRICULTURE SUPPLY CHAIN

Daniella Russo and Greg Baxter are the co-founders of Think Beyond Plastic, the leader of a global multidisciplinary effort to identify and commercialize upstream innovations that eliminate plastic pollution, with focus on innovative product delivery systems. At Hardcore Natural History, they'll be discussing their work in agricultural supply chains in our area.

Jul 20, 2019

JUNIOR NATURALIST EXCURSION — GARLAND RANCH

The Junior Naturalist Club will head back to the Carmel Valley for its July excursion, where we'll be joined by the Museum's Watershed Guardians Coordinator, Matt McConnell, for an exploration of the Carmel River and its many inhabitants. We'll 'fish' for macroinvertebrates and hike a gentle loop trail while learning about watersheds and the importance of clean, cool rivers.
Junior Naturalist Club Membership required.

Jul 25, 2019

MEMBER EVENT — "BIG SUR FOG: THE SCIENCE AND THE HISTORY"

With Pacific Grove’s notorious summer fog rolling in, we welcome museum members to join us inside our Bird Gallery for a special presentation of the documentary “Big Sur Fog: The Science and the History”. This will be followed by a Q&A discussion with Director and Writer Steven and Mary Albert.

Sep 12, 2019

WILD WONDER NATURE JOURNALING CONFERENCE 2019 — DAY 1

John Muir Laws and the Nature Journal Club are thrilled to be hosting Wild Wonder, the first Nature Journaling Conference. This event will gather people who are passionate about nature, art, science, curiosity, and wonder to share ideas, learn from each other, support each other, inspire each other, and have fun together in a nature’s beauty.

Sep 13, 2019

WILD WONDER NATURE JOURNALING CONFERENCE 2019 — DAY 2

John Muir Laws and the Nature Journal Club are thrilled to be hosting Wild Wonder, the first Nature Journaling Conference. This event will gather people who are passionate about nature, art, science, curiosity, and wonder to share ideas, learn from each other, support each other, inspire each other, and have fun together in a nature’s beauty.

Sep 14, 2019

WILD WONDER NATURE JOURNALING CONFERENCE 2019 — DAY 3

John Muir Laws and the Nature Journal Club are thrilled to be hosting Wild Wonder, the first Nature Journaling Conference. This event will gather people who are passionate about nature, art, science, curiosity, and wonder to share ideas, learn from each other, support each other, inspire each other, and have fun together in a nature’s beauty.

Sep 15, 2019

WILD WONDER NATURE JOURNALING CONFERENCE 2019 – DAY 4

John Muir Laws and the Nature Journal Club are thrilled to be hosting Wild Wonder, the first Nature Journaling Conference. This event will gather people who are passionate about nature, art, science, curiosity, and wonder to share ideas, learn from each other, support each other, inspire each other, and have fun together in a nature’s beauty.

Oct 5, 2019

ANNUAL GALA

Sip, Savor and Enjoy in the Museum on October 5th, 2019!

For more information on Museum events, call (831) 648-5716, email admin@pgmuseum.org or go to the website at www.pgmuseum.org.

About the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History
In 1883, our museum opened its doors among the first wave of natural history museums in America. Naturalists of this era, such as John Muir And Louis Aggasiz, began a national tradition of hands-on science education and nature preservation. The museum has continued this tradition for 130 years. The museum’s mission is to inspire discovery, wonder, and stewardship of our natural world. It envisions a community of curious minds, engaged in discovering the natural heritage and cultural legacy that exist today on the Central California Coast. The Museum is a catalyst for conservation and a valued learning resource in this region, facilitating active inquiry for all ages.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.pgmuseum.org

Sunday, 7 July 2019

Outdoor Wedding Ceremony Sites Available at Monterey County Fair & Event Center in Monterey

People enjoy attending music and food festivals, fairs and fundraisers at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center because of its 22 acres of beautiful lawns surrounded by oak trees.

Monterey, CA, July 08, 2019 — People enjoy attending music and food festivals, fairs and fundraisers at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center because of its 22 acres of beautiful lawns surrounded by oak trees.


Now you can take advantage of the picturesque location by holding your wedding ceremony outside on the grounds. For a fee of $300 you can rent an outdoor space (seating additional) for the ceremony to go along with a choice of more than 30,000 square feet of indoor banquet space for your reception.

In addition, weddings held Sunday through Friday are 15%-off the site fee. For a list of room packages and price breakdown, go to https://montereycountyfair.com/pdf/events/room_packages_2019.pdf

Email Sales & Event Coordinator Nicolette Aldrete to book your outdoor wedding. Click here to email Nicolette:

https://montereycountyfair.com/nicolette-aldrete/

About the Monterey County Fair & Event Center
The Monterey County Fair & Event Center is a premier event center set on 22 oak-studded acres with ample parking. It is a state-owned multi-use facility that features four large banquet rooms, two outdoor concert venues, and a variety of outdoor and indoor cost-effective sites ideal for all types of events. It is home of the annual award-winning Monterey County Fair, host to many major and private events on the Central Coast, and the site of the Monterey Bay Race Place, a Satellite Wagering Facility.

For more information, contact the Fair Administration Office, at 2004 Fairground Road in Monterey, by calling (831) 372-5863 or go to www.montereycountyfair.com for more information.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.montereycountyfair.com

Saturday, 6 July 2019

Monterey Symphony Announces 2019-2020 Season No. 74 of Concerts, Ovation, Youth Concerts, Plus Special Events, Luncheons and Dinners

Monterey Symphony has announced its 2019-20 Season 74, Ovation, with six concerts, youth concerts, special events, luncheons and supper clubs through May 2020.

Monterey, CA, July 07, 2019 — Monterey Symphony has announced its 2019-20 Season 74, Ovation, with six concerts, youth concerts, special events, luncheons and supper clubs through May 2020.

The Symphony opens Ovation Oct. 19-20, 2019, with Antonín Dvořák’s Romance for violin and orchestra, featuring concertmaster Christina Mok. The season continues Nov. 16-17, with pianist Kun Woo Paik returning to the Symphony to perform two piano concerti. Concert No. 3 is Feb. 15-16, 2020, featuring two massive symphonic works, both weaving elegant stories for the listener. The fourth concert of the season is set for March 14-15, 2020, and features guest conductor Oleg Caetani making his debut with the Symphony. Concert No. 5, April 18-19, 2020, features Symphony favorite, violinist Judith Ingolfsson performing Brahms’ violin concerto. The sixth and final concert, May 16-17, will highlight works by Richard Strauss and Gustav Mahler and be conducted by Symphony Music Director Max Bragado-Darman.

The roster of special events, luncheons and dinners kicks off Oct. 6, 2019 with the Symphony’s Paella Cook-Off pitting Maestro Bragado-Darman’s legendary paella in a friendly competition with a local celebrity chef and culminates May 17, 2020, with the Finale Celebration to give the Maestro a send-off worthy of his 15 years at the helm of the Symphony. Six preview luncheons will be hosted on the Thursdays prior to each concert and five supper clubs will be held on Sundays after the matinee concerts (October-April).

Eight Youth Concerts will be presented during the 2019-2020 season. Half the concerts will be held at Sherwood Hall in Salinas on Oct. 21 and May 18, and the other half at the Sunset Center in Carmel on March 16 and April 20. For more information, visit www.montereysymphony.org/youth-concerts.

Concert 1: October 19-20, 2019

The Monterey Symphony opens its 74th season Ovation with Antonín Dvořák’s Romance for violin and orchestra, featuring concertmaster Christina Mok. This delightful, single-movement work was commissioned to serve as an annual musical tradition for the Provisional Theatre Orchestra in Prague. Based on a theme from the second movement of his fifth string quartet, Romance is a lovely interplay between the violinist and the orchestra. Other iterations of the melody were presented in his later works — it was an obvious favorite of Dvořák’s!

Hector Berlioz’s Symphonie Fantastique takes the mercurial, and often tragic, life of an artist and sets it to music. The title underlines not only the fantastic musical fireworks that take place on stage, but also a fantasy Berlioz was demonstrating. Written as an homage to unrequited love—the result of too many unanswered love letters — Berlioz uses the voices of the instruments to explain his emotions. The work travels through the artist’s life, culminating in his own funeral in the wildly intense final movement.

Violinist Christina Mok has captivated audiences with her solo performances, chamber recitals, and orchestral leadership. She has appeared as a soloist with the Russian Federal Symphony Orchestra, the Janacek Philharmonic, and the Seoul Symphony Orchestra, among others. The San Jose Mercury declared of one of her concerto performances, “She was a spellbinder as she dug in and let it fly — there was no need to long for Itzhak Perlman or Gil Shaham.”

As a chamber musician she has performed in Korea, Japan, England, Norway, Hong Kong, and the United States. Her recitals have been broadcast on the BBC and RTHK. She is the Concertmaster of the Stockton Symphony and the Monterey Symphony and the Associate Concertmaster of Symphony Silicon Valley.

Max Bragado-Darman, conductor

Antonín Dvořák / Romance, Op. 11

Christina Mok, violin

Hector Berlioz / Symphonie Fantastique, Op. 14

Concert 2: November 16-17, 2019

Pianist Kun Woo Paik returns to the Monterey Symphony to perform two piano concerti. Paik, winner of the Naumburg award and gold medallist at the Busoni International Piano Competitions, is considered one of the finest pianists of his generation.

Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 27, KV 595 is his last piano concerto ever written. Myths surrounding both its composition and premiere give the work an air of mystery.

Elegant in nature, the Mozart is complemented by Johannes Brahms’ 1st Piano Concerto, the first work Brahms ever premiered from the piano! Although Brahms was only 25 when he composed the work, the melodies are mature and sophisticated. The piece was composed two years after Schumann’s death and explores a complex set of emotions. Schumann played an important role in Brahms’ life and it is hard to not see the connection between them in some of his works.

Kun Woo Paik came to prominence at the age of ten performing Grieg’s Piano Concerto with the Korean National Orchestra. His international career took off soon after with his first New York recital at the Lincoln Center and his orchestral debut at Carnegie Hall.

Paik has collaborated all over the world with the most renowned conductors such as Zubin Mehta, Lorin Maazel, Mariss Jansons, Neville Marriner, Jiří Bělohlávek, Vladimir Jurowski, Dmitri Kitaenko, Paavo Järvi, and Ivan Fischer, with orchestras including the New York Philharmonic, London Symphony, BBC Symphony, St. Petersburg Philharmonic, Oslo Philharmonic, Rotterdam Philharmonic, Berlin Symphony, and the Deutsche Bremen Kammerphilharmonie. He has recently performed with the New York Philharmonic, Lucerne and Berlin Symphony orchestras and given recitals at Carnegie Hall, La Scala, the Mariinsky Theatre and all over Asia and Europe. His numerous recordings appear on BMG, Decca and Deutsche Grammophon. Kun Woo Paik studied at the Juilliard School in New York with Rosina Lhevinne and worked with Ilona Kabos, Guido Agosti and Wilhelm Kempff.

Max Bragado-Darman, conductor

W.A. Mozart / Piano Concerto No. 27, KV 595

Kun Woo Paik, piano

Johannes Brahms / Piano Concerto No. 1, Op. 15

Kun Woo Paik, piano

Concert 3: February 15-16, 2020

February’s program features two massive symphonic works, both weaving elegant stories for the listener. Edward Elgar’s Enigma Variations are comprised of 14 separate movements sketching a different friend or close acquaintance. Rather than depicting the person as a whole, a single element of their personality or relationship with Elgar is illustrated musically. The movement titles contain cryptograms or keys to the identity of the subject! Elgar started the work casually at the piano as an exercise to capture someone musically, and evolved it into a large and beloved symphonic work.

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade is based on the Arabian Nights. Replete with Russian folk melodies, many excerpts of this piece are used for Olympic figure skating – making it a well-known and recognized work. Rimsky-Korsakov worked tirelessly on this composition, along with his ornate Russian Easter Overture and the completion of Alexander Borodin’s opera Prince Igor. The work features stunning and virtuosic violin solos — not to be missed!

Max Bragado-Darman, conductor

Edward Elgar / Enigma Variations, Op. 36

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov / Scheherazade, Op. 35

Concert 4: March 14-15, 2020

Guest conductor Oleg Caetani hails from Italy and is making his debut with the Monterey Symphony. The son of famed conductor and composer, Igor Markevitch, Caetani completed his formal training at the Moscow Conservatory and graduated from the Saint Petersburg Conservatory. He won the RAI Competition and third prize at the Karajan Competition in Berlin.

Tchaikovsky’s 3rd Symphony, “Polish,” opens the program. This symphony is unique in that it is his only Symphony both in a major key, and containing five movements. The piece, sans first movement, was used by choreographer George Balanchine for Diamonds, the third and final part of his ballet Jewels. Various instruments are showcased in this iconic work, including a lovely flute solo in the third movement.

The second half of the program contains Shostakovich’s 15th Symphony, written in 1971 and premiered in Moscow, which is full of references to other composer’s works. Shostakovich tips his hat to Rossini and Glinka, as well as featuring the “Fate” motif from Richard Wagner’s Ring Cycle.

Oleg Caetani, one of the greatest conductors of his generation, moves freely between symphonic and opera repertoire. Caetani has conducted all over the world including: La Scala in Milan, the Mariinsky in Saint Petersburg, the Royal Opera House in London, the Opera House in San Francisco, the Musikverein in Vienna, Lincoln Center in New York and Suntory Hall in Japan, working with the greatest soloists of our days.

Oleg was chief designate at the ENO in 2005, chief designate 2002-2005 for the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra and Music Conductor and Artistic Director for the same orchestra from 2005 to 2009. Before that, Caetani was the Principal Conductor for the Staatskapelle Weimar, First Kapellmeister of the Frankfurt Opera and GMD in Wiesbaden and in Chemnitz.

Oleg Caetani, guest conductor

Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky / Symphony No. 3, Op. 29

Dmitri Shostakovich / Symphony No. 15, Op. 141

Concert 5: April 18-19, 2020

A Monterey Symphony favorite, violinist Judith Ingolfsson returns in April to perform Brahms’ violin concerto. Judith is currently Professor at the State University of Music and Performing Arts Stuttgart and co-artistic director and founder of the Festival “Aigues-Vives en Musiques” in France.

Brahms’ violin concerto was written for Joseph Joachim and is the only violin concerto he wrote. Marked by soaring melodies for the violin, it contains some of the most challenging passages for the instrument.

Jean Sibelius’ 2nd Symphony was started in Italy and completed in Helsinki. Sibelius himself declared the work “a confession of my soul.” The piece was premiered with the composer conducting and received three back-to-back sold out performances! A beloved work, after his wildly popular tone poem Finlandia, the 2nd Symphony is Sibelius at his finest with whimsical touches throughout!

Violinist Judith Ingolfsson is recognized for her intense, commanding performances, uncompromising musical maturity, and charismatic performance style. Based in Berlin and enjoying a global career, she performs as soloist, chamber musician and in recital as the Duo Ingolfsson-Stoupel. The New York Times has characterized her playing as producing “both fireworks and a singing tone” and Strings Magazine described her tone as “gorgeous, intense, and variable, flawlessly pure and beautiful in every register.”

Ingolfsson studied at the Curtis Institute of Music and at the Cleveland Institute of Music. She has also been appointed to the violin faculty at the Peabody Conservatory of the Johns Hopkins University.

Max Bragado-Darman, conductor

Johannes Brahms / Violin Concerto, Op. 77

Judith Ingolfsson, violin

Jean Sibelius / Symphony No. 2, Op. 43

Concert 6: May 16-17, 2020

The season concludes with Richard Strauss and Gustav Mahler. Both of these works require intense playing from the orchestra and give our fabulous Monterey Symphony the chance to boldly shine! Strauss’ Don Juan is a powerful tone poem for large orchestra featuring many passages used for Symphony auditions. The piece is based on the unfinished poem Don Juans Ende which tells the story of a man searching for love, which he never finds.

Symphony No. 1 by Gustav Mahler, or “The Titan,” was composed in 1887–1888 in Leipzig and premiered in 1889. There are as many as six versions of the work, as Mahler was impassioned about perfecting it. He borrowed from some of his own works, and highlighted certain lied, or songs, in the movements. At one point there was an additional movement, which Mahler rejected after the first few performances. This Symphony is massive, lush, and gorgeous — a fitting end to a season deserving of many ovations!

Max Bragado-Darman has served as Music Director of the Monterey Symphony since 2004. He was Music Director/Conductor of the Symphony Orchestra of Castile and León in Valladolid, Spain, for nine years. With this ensemble he recorded works of Turina and Rodrigo and the cello concerti of Alberto Ginastera on the Naxos Label. He also recorded the flute and clarinet concerti by Joan Tower on the Opus One label.

In 1995, Max Bragado-Darman was appointed Music Director and Conductor of the Louisville Orchestra. He has worked with artists Alicia de Larrocha, Teresa Berganza, Horacio Gutiérrez, Elmar Oliveira, Dubravka Tomsic, André Watts, Angel Romero, Gary Graffman, and Aaron Rosand.

In 2003, he made his debut at the Wexford Opera Festival with the Granados opera “María del Carmen.” His conducting has been guided by teachers Robert Fountain, Robert Baustian, George Szell, Igor Markevich and Franco Ferrara. He has been the conductor for the “Iturbi Piano Competition” in Valencia, Spain in several editions.

Max Bragado-Darman, conductor

Richard Strauss / Don Juan, Op. 20

Gustav Mahler / Symphony No. 1

Performances on Saturdays are at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. One hour prior to every performance there will be a pre-concert lecture in the Hall of Sunset Center.

New subscriptions become available on July 1, 2019. Please contact the box office for availability at (831) 646-8511. For more information and pricing visit: https://www.montereysymphony.org/subscriptions.htm

Single tickets go on sale Aug. 15, 2019, at www.montereysymphony.org.

About the Monterey Symphony
The mission of the Monterey Symphony is to engage, educate and excite our community through the performance and continual discovery of symphonic music.

The Monterey Symphony, under the artistic leadership of Music Director & Conductor Max Bragado-Darman, is the only fully professional, full-season orchestra serving the communities of the Monterey Bay, Salinas, Salinas Valley, Big Sur, and San Benito County. It provides double performances of a six-concert subscription series at Carmel’s Sunset Theater, as well as youth education programs that include in-class visits and culminate in full-orchestra concerts for school children.

The Monterey Symphony is a nonprofit, public benefit corporation, supported through various generous individuals and through grants and corporate gifts from The Arts Council of Monterey County, The Barnet Segal Charitable Trust, The Berkshire Foundation, California Arts Council, The Community Foundation for Monterey County, The Harden Foundation, Monterey Peninsula Foundation, Music Performance Trust Fund, Nancy Buck Ransom Foundation, The David and Lucile Packard Foundation, The William H. and Kristine M. Schuyler Charitable Foundation, Inc., The Robert and Virginia Stanton Endowment, Teichert Foundation The Upjohn California Fund and many others.

For additional information, please call 831-646-8511 or visit the website: www.montereysymphony.org

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.montereysymphony.org

It's Never Too Early To Plan for the Holidays

Beat the Holiday Rush and Book Your Holiday Party at the Hyatt Regency Monterey.

Monterey, CA, July 06, 2019 - We have flexible Event spaces that can accommodate an intimate party of 25 or a big bash for 600!

Packages include the following: linens, holiday centerpieces, up lighting, holiday decor, dance floor, parking and special guestroom rates.


Book your party by September 30, 2019 and receive:

• Welcome signature Holiday Cocktail.

• Two complimentary tray-passed hors d'oeuvres

• Complimentary Golf course view guestroom for one night, applies to groups of 50 or more.

Call us now at 831.657.6540, and we'll gift wrap your Holiday plans!

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/california/hyatt-regency-monterey-hotel-and-spa-on-del-monte-golf-course/mrydm

Friday, 5 July 2019

Salinas Self Storage celebrates Facility Expansion and the Art of Decluttering at Ribbon-cutting party Public Event Features Music, Food Truck, Charity partnership

Never in modern history has there been more focus on decluttering our lives, with tidying up falling into three distinct categories — charity, trash and storage.

Salinas, CA, July 06, 2019 - Never in modern history has there been more focus on decluttering our lives, with tidying up falling into three distinct categories — charity, trash and storage.

It’s no wonder that Salinas Self Storage just invested in a six-month renovation to create the most secure and comprehensive self-storage facility in Monterey County.

Conveniently located just off the new Sala Road exit along Highway 101, Salinas Self Storage offers modern, safe and clean storage, with all units individually alarmed, monitored and equipped with fire-safe sprinklers. The expansion also made room for new RV and boat storage as well.

Salinas Self Storage will celebrate its new beginning with a community gathering on Thursday, Sept. 26 (5-7 p.m.), with both the Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce and Salinas Valley Chamber on hand. The unveiling and ribbon-cutting will include live music, a food truck and other activities.

During the celebration Salinas Self Storage will officially announce its new charity partner, Gil’s Basketball Academy, a community-minded program that surrounds local youth with positive role models, peer influences and constructive activities.

From Sept. 16 through Oct. 31, 10 percent of all new rental proceeds up to $1,000 will benefit Gil’s Basketball Academy. Such support is a major tenet of Salinas Self Storage, family owned and operated by locals invested in their community.

Gene and Nancy Spencer started Salinas Self Storage in 1999. Widowed in 2015, Salinas native Nancy Spencer — a retired teacher who spent 28 years at Spreckels Elementary — now owns SSS with Salinas raised businessman and real estate developer Mike House.

“My son Michael and Mike were classmates (1981) at Palma High,” said Nancy, who still lives in a house on the facility property. “When I needed a new partner, Michael got in touch with Mike and we have been working together ever since.”

The mission of Salinas Self Storage centers around supreme service not usually seen in the industry. Nothing tops the care of the facility’s onsite manager for extra peace of mind. And for extra convenience, SSS is the only storage place in town to offer free carry-in service to new customers.

Serving the Salinas area, including Prunedale, Castroville, Gonzales, Royal Oaks, Marina and Monterey, Salinas Self Storage is proud of its friendly, professional staff. SSS offers a variety of sizes to fit the needs of residential or business users.

“We aim to tailor your storage experience to fit your storage schedule and make your life easier,” House said.

Less clutter, less stress, with more room to enjoy life.

Lauren Chocholak
Asset Manager
House Properties
35 Corte Madera Ave.
Mill Valley, CA 94941
(847) 224-3346
lauren@houseproperties.us

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.houseproperties.us

Salinas Self Storage celebrates Facility Expansion and the Art of Decluttering at Ribbon-cutting party Public Event Features Music, Food Truck, Charity partnership

Never in modern history has there been more focus on decluttering our lives, with tidying up falling into three distinct categories — charity, trash and storage.

Salinas, CA, July 06, 2019 - Never in modern history has there been more focus on decluttering our lives, with tidying up falling into three distinct categories — charity, trash and storage.

It’s no wonder that Salinas Self Storage just invested in a six-month renovation to create the most secure and comprehensive self-storage facility in Monterey County.

Conveniently located just off the new Sala Road exit along Highway 101, Salinas Self Storage offers modern, safe and clean storage, with all units individually alarmed, monitored and equipped with fire-safe sprinklers. The expansion also made room for new RV and boat storage as well.

Salinas Self Storage will celebrate its new beginning with a community gathering on Thursday, Sept. 26 (5-7 p.m.), with both the Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce and Salinas Valley Chamber on hand. The unveiling and ribbon-cutting will include live music, a food truck and other activities.

During the celebration Salinas Self Storage will officially announce its new charity partner, Gil’s Basketball Academy, a community-minded program that surrounds local youth with positive role models, peer influences and constructive activities.

From Sept. 16 through Oct. 31, 10 percent of all new rental proceeds up to $1,000 will benefit Gil’s Basketball Academy. Such support is a major tenet of Salinas Self Storage, family owned and operated by locals invested in their community.

Gene and Nancy Spencer started Salinas Self Storage in 1999. Widowed in 2015, Salinas native Nancy Spencer — a retired teacher who spent 28 years at Spreckels Elementary — now owns SSS with Salinas raised businessman and real estate developer Mike House.

“My son Michael and Mike were classmates (1981) at Palma High,” said Nancy, who still lives in a house on the facility property. “When I needed a new partner, Michael got in touch with Mike and we have been working together ever since.”

The mission of Salinas Self Storage centers around supreme service not usually seen in the industry. Nothing tops the care of the facility’s onsite manager for extra peace of mind. And for extra convenience, SSS is the only storage place in town to offer free carry-in service to new customers.

Serving the Salinas area, including Prunedale, Castroville, Gonzales, Royal Oaks, Marina and Monterey, Salinas Self Storage is proud of its friendly, professional staff. SSS offers a variety of sizes to fit the needs of residential or business users.

“We aim to tailor your storage experience to fit your storage schedule and make your life easier,” House said.

Less clutter, less stress, with more room to enjoy life.

Lauren Chocholak
Asset Manager
House Properties
35 Corte Madera Ave.
Mill Valley, CA 94941
(847) 224-3346
lauren@houseproperties.us

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.houseproperties.us

Thursday, 4 July 2019

Interim Inc. Hopes to Spur Change, Raise Awareness During Minority Mental Health Awareness Month in July

Every year millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental health condition.

Monterey, CA, July 04, 2018 — Every year millions of Americans face the reality of living with a mental health condition. But background and identity can make access to mental health treatment much more difficult because mental health doesn’t discriminate based on race, color, gender or identity.

With that in mind Monterey private nonprofit organization Interim Inc. is encouraging improvements in the country’s mental health system, especially when it comes to marginalized communities, and raising awareness of the issue by supporting July as National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, which was established in 2008 to start changing this.

Interim is the only agency in Monterey County dedicated to supporting adults with mental illness by providing affordable housing, residential treatment, social rehabilitation services, homeless outreach and support, family outreach, and supported education and employment services.

In May of 2008, the U.S. House of Representatives announced July as Bebe Moore Campbell National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. The resolution was sponsored by Rep. Albert Wynn (D-Maryland) and cosponsored by a large bipartisan group to achieve two goals:

>Improve access to mental health treatment and services and

>Promote public awareness of mental illness

When trying to access treatment, marginalized communities have to contend with such issues as:

>Barriers to access to treatment

Language barriers

>Lack of cultural competence

>Racism, bias and discrimination in treatment settings

>Lower-quality care

>Lower likelihood of health insurance or adequate coverage

> The high level of mental health stigma in minority populations

> Belief that treatment will not help

These are all in addition to the usual roadblocks.

“Many cultures also view mental health treatment as a luxury, considering symptoms a ‘phase’ that will eventually pass,” writes Laura Greenstein, communications coordinator at National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). “These harmful perceptions of mental illness can further isolate individuals who desperately need help.

“We can all help ignite change against these disparities and fight stigma this Minority Mental Health Awareness Month,” she adds. “It simply starts with learning more about mental health and informing your community.”

Some of the ways an individual can get involved and help change the system according to Greenstein include:

>Consider Giving A Presentation

The more we talk about mental illness, the more normalized it will become.

>Emphasize Treatment

Make sure to stress the importance of a culturally competent provider. These mental health professionals, such as the services offered by Interim, integrate your beliefs and values into treatment.

>Share Your Story

When a person experiences symptoms of mental illness, one of the most helpful and comforting feelings is knowing that they’re not alone. It can be incredibly reassuring to know in this moment right now, someone else is going through similar struggles as you are—regardless of where they are, who they are, or how they identify.

Minority Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to raise awareness and stop stigma in diverse communities. It’s time to improve the harsh realities minority communities face when it comes to mental illness treatment. In fact, it’s long overdue.

About Bebe Moore Campbell
Campbell was an author, advocate, co-founder of NAMI Urban Los Angeles and national spokesperson, who passed away in November 2006.

She received NAMI's 2003 Outstanding Media Award for Literature. Campbell advocated for mental health education and support among individuals of diverse communities.

In 2005, inspired by Campbell’s charge to end stigma and provide mental health information, longtime friend Linda Wharton-Boyd suggested dedicating a month to the effort.

The duo got to work, outlining the concept of National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month and what it would entail. With the support of the D.C. Department of Mental Health and then-mayor Anthony Williams, they held a news conference in Southeast D.C., where they encouraged residents to get mental health checkups.

Support continued to build as Campbell and Wharton-Boyd held book signings, spoke in churches and created a National Minority Mental Health Taskforce of friends and allies. However, the effort came to a halt when Campbell became too ill to continue.

When Campbell lost her battle to cancer, Wharton-Boyd, friends, family and allied advocates reignited their cause, inspired by the passion of the life of an extraordinary woman.

The group researched and obtained the support of Representatives Albert Wynn (D-Maryland) and Diane Watson (D-California), who co-signed legislation to create an official minority mental health awareness month.

About Interim Inc.
Interim, Inc. is a private nonprofit organization that provides a unique combination of support services, housing and social rehabilitation treatment for adults with mental illness in Monterey County. Services provided include affordable supportive housing, residential treatment, mental health and dual-recovery services, case coordination, therapeutic services, outreach and intensive support for homeless adults, supported education and employment, day treatment and peer support.

Interim Inc.
P.O. Box 3222
Monterey, CA 93942
(831) 649-4522
www.interiminc.org

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.interiminc.org

Wednesday, 3 July 2019

Artists, Dancers Join Together to Create Artwork to Benefit Dance Kids of Monterey County

Visual art meets the performing arts on Sept. 21, when 23 local artists are paired with 23 local dancers to create unique, collectable artwork to benefit Dance Kids of Monterey County.

Carmel, CA, June 03, 2019 — Visual art meets the performing arts on Sept. 21, when 23 local artists are paired with 23 local dancers to create unique, collectable artwork to benefit Dance Kids of Monterey County.

The Carmel Sunset Rotary Club presents “The Pointe of Art,” a benefit for Dance Kids of Monterey County hosted by Bennett Sculpture Carmel, 5-9 p.m. Saturday, September 21, 2019, at Bennett Sculpture Carmel, San Carlos and Sixth, Carmel.

For more information, call Dance Kids at (831) 622-9008.

About Dance Kids
With over 24 years of production history, Dance Kids of Monterey County, a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization founded by Richmond, is proud of its wide range of theatrical experience that support the youth of the Monterey Peninsula. In the early days, productions at the Carmel Ballet Academy included “Nutcracker” and original spring musicals written by Walt de Faria and a full-length spring ballet, produced at Sunset Center.

Dance Kids was known for fun-loving nostalgia surrounding the musical and drew from the community a range of young people and their families committed to theater. As it grew, its little venue could not handle the “Nutcracker” any longer, but continued at the venue for the spring musicals, until those too, outgrew the dance studio. “Nutcracker” moved to Sunset Center in 1995 and has remained there as its home venue except for the years the center was being remodeled.

Dance Kids “Nutcracker” has grown into a premier production eagerly awaited by cast and community. The original vision of Dance Kids of Monterey County has been honored as well as surpassed in the ensuing years. This year is one of pivotal change and growth.

Street Address:
Sunset Center, Cottage #17
San Carlos Street at 10th Ave.,
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA

Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 6225
Carmel, CA 93921
Phone: (831) 622-9008
Fax: (831) 218-1293
Email: info@dancekids.org
Website: dancekids.org

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.dancekids.org

Tuesday, 2 July 2019

Advance Ticket Package to 2019 Monterey County Fair Available at Costco.com

Advance Ticket Packages for two to the 2019 Monterey County Fair are now available online at Costco.com.

Monterey, CA, July 03, 2019 — Advance Ticket Packages for two to the 2019 Monterey County Fair are now available online at Costco.com.

The General Admission Package eVoucher is $49.99, features two adult admissions and two Carnival wristbands, is delivered by email and is valid during the run of the fair, Aug. 29 – Sept. 2, 2019.

When purchased, an eVoucher will be emailed to the buyer, typically within an hour. Present the printed eVoucher at the Monterey County Fair ticket window at Gate 3 or 5. The Carnival eVoucher can be exchanged at any carnival customer service booth for a pay-one-price, ride-all-day wristband.

The ticket package is available at https://www.costco.com/Monterey-County-Fair-2-General-Admission-Package%2c-eVoucher%2c-California.product.100499182.html.

The Monterey County Fair will run from Thursday, Aug. 29-Monday, Sept. 2, 2019, at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center, 2004 Fairground Road, in Monterey. The theme of the 2019 fair is “High Tides and Carnival Rides.”

About the Monterey County Fair & Event Center
The Monterey County Fair & Event Center is a premier event center set on 22 oak-studded acres with ample parking. It is a state-owned multi-use facility that features four large banquet rooms, two outdoor concert venues, and a variety of outdoor and indoor cost-effective sites ideal for all types of events. It is home of the annual award-winning Monterey County Fair, host to many major and private events on the Central Coast, and the site of the Monterey Bay Race Place, a Satellite Wagering Facility.

For more information, contact the Fair Administration Office, at 2004 Fairground Road in Monterey, by calling (831) 372-5863 or go to www.montereycountyfair.com for more information.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.montereycountyfair.com

Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa Launches New TusCA Menu, Mid Week Music Series, Weekend Jazz and New Summer Promotions at Knuckles Sports Bar

Enjoy nights on the #fireplacelounge patio @hyattmonterey. Relax on our patio, taste what comes out of our new wood smoker, grab a bloody Mary (or two) or enjoy a hand-crafted cocktail!

Monterey, CA, July 02, 2019 - Enjoy nights on the #fireplacelounge patio @hyattmonterey. Relax on our patio, taste what comes out of our new wood smoker, grab a bloody Mary (or two) or enjoy a hand-crafted cocktail!


TusCA Launches its New Menu

Are you dreaming of a beautiful summer vacation, with days spent at the beach, enjoying fabulous coastal dining and visiting world-class destinations such as Cannery Row, The Monterey Bay Aquarium and more? Share with us your Monterey-area dream getaway for your chance to win a two-night stay at Hyatt Regency Monterey!

New Menu

Are you dreaming of a beautiful summer vacation, with days spent at the beach, enjoying fabulous coastal dining and visiting world-class destinations such as Cannery Row, The Monterey Bay Aquarium and more? Share with us your Monterey-area dream getaway for your chance to win a two-night stay at Hyatt Regency Monterey!

• Follow us on Pinterest:
• Create a board titled: Hyatt Regency Monterey Vacay
• Add a minimum of 10 pins of the things you want to do in Monterey from kayaking to sightseeing!
• Use the hashtag #HyattMontereyVacay on all the pins
• Email a link of your board to: marci@chatterboxpublicrelations.com

One lucky winner will receive a two-night stay at Hyatt Regency Monterey! Winner will be announced August 25th! *Contest will run August 1st - 15th.

Celebrate National Hot Dog Month at Knuckles Sports Bar inside Hyatt Regency Monterey.

July is National Hot Dog Month, according to the Hot Dog and Sausage Council. At Knuckles Sports Bar we love to shout "Hot Diggity Dogs!" Prepare to get your fill of dogs and all the toppings, because here are some interesting fun facts about an American classic!

During a typical summer, Americans will consume a total of 7 billion hot dogs. Joey Chestnut currently holds the world record for hot dog eating by devouring 69 hot dogs (with buns) in just 10 minutes

The Tokyo Dog food truck in Seattle holds the record for the most expensive hot dog, costing $169.

The longest hot dog on record, made by Novex SA of Paraguay in 2011, is 668 feet, 7.62 inches.

Now that the weather has begun to warm, grilling season is upon us yet again.

Time to fire up those grills and cook some juicy hamburgers, steaks, and hot dogs, of course! Take some time to experiment with a childhood classic that we’ve made all grown up.

Homemade Hot Dog Pickle Relish

1½ cups vinegar
1 tsp. mustard seeds
1 tsp. coriander seeds
3 tablespoons brown sugar
8 large dill pickles, diced
1 small cooked red pepper, diced
1 small cooked yellow pepper, diced
1 small onion, diced
2 tablespoons. chopped dill
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps
1. In a medium saucepan, add vinegar, mustard seeds, and coriander seeds, and bring to a slow boil.

2. Cook until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and add the remaining ingredients and stir until blended.

3. Cover and refrigerate for several hours to cool before serving on hot dogs. Enjoy!

Get Your Wet-Naps Ready: July 29 is #National Chicken Wing Day!

There are plenty of tasty ways to celebrate National Chicken Wing Day on Monday, July 29. Whether you like them hot and spicy, sticky sweet or perfectly plain, whether you prefer them served with blue cheese, plum sauce or celery sticks, chicken wings have to be the most popular protein on the planet.

At Knuckles Sports Bar we offer a wide variety of styles beyond traditional Buffalo, including All American Hot Sauce, Summer BBQ Sauce, Pedro’s "AY Chihuahua" Sauce and Smoked Habanero Peach Sauce.

Swingin’ Jazz and More
Live music energizes the Fireplace Lounge. Not only do we feature swinging jazz on Friday and Saturday nights, but live rock, pop, country and classical guitar music on Wednesday and Thursday nights from 6-9 p.m. Look for popular local singers, songwriters and guitarists such as Mark Banks, Taylor Rae and John Sotelo, along with guitarist John Sherry, and lively rock violinist Razzvio.

Jazz sessions on Friday and Saturday nights are curated by Hyatt jazz director Dr. David Morwood, a plastic surgeon by day and exemplary drummer by night. Dr. Morwood brings in such noted local jazz luminaries as Tim Jackson, Mike Lent, Zach Westfall, Eddie Mendenhall, Ben Herod, Janice Perl Marotta, and many more.

While the lounge is swinging with the sounds of jazz, rock and pop, enjoy a menu of delectable small plates and appetizers, signature cocktails and an extensive wine list.

DINING
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A Monterey Bay, California Hotel
Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa on Del Monte Golf Course elevates luxury accommodation to a new level. Guests will experience hotel rooms and suites with transcendent amenities such as flat-screen televisions, rain showers, plush bedding, and so much more. Walk into the spacious lobby, where you’ll find the hotel’s Fireplace Lounge, perfect for relaxing with friends or listening to live music.

Monterey is on California’s central coast, and you’ll find plenty of attractions and things to do including Pebble Beach Company's championship Del Monte Golf Course. Guests of Hyatt are welcome to enjoy a swim in one of the two heated outdoor pools. Another popular destination of the hotel-TusCA Restaurant , where you’ll find delicious cuisine in an elegantly casual atmosphere.

Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa on Del Monte Golf Course
1 Old Golf Course Road, Monterey, California, USA, 93940-4908
Tel: +1 831 372 1234 • Fax: +1 831 375 3960 • mrydm.sales@hyatt.com • monterey.hyatt.com

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.monterey.hyatt.com

Monday, 1 July 2019

No venue captures the Magic and Wonder of the Holiday season quite like Hyatt Carmel Highlands

Our picturesque setting along the breathtaking coastline creates a festive backdrop for any gathering.

Carmel, CA, July 02, 2019 - Our picturesque setting along the breathtaking coastline creates a festive backdrop for any gathering. Whether it’s an intimate family party or a large corporate affair, our renowned culinary team, along with an expert event staff, will take care of all your holiday details. Your only task is to rejoice in the beauty and splendor of the Highlands.


Book your holiday party by August 31st, 2019 and you will receive a complimentary one-hour bubbly bar.

Don’t miss out on our new Holiday Happy Hour packages, and be sure to check out our scrumptious “Get Cheesy," “How Sweet It Is” and “Poke Bar” custom menu options. Don’t forget to wet your whistle with our “Bubbly” and “Sudsy” special sparkling wine and beer menus.

Contact our Special Events Coordinator today at (831) 620-1234.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/california/