20 Images to Inspire a 2020 Visit to Cinnamon Shore

We don’t need to tell you why to vacation at Cinnamon Shore! Let us show you!

Port Aransas, TX, January 29, 2020 - We don’t need to tell you why to vacation at Cinnamon Shore! Let us show you! Take a look at all the reasons you should book now for 2020 at the Texas Gulf Coast’s premiere master-planned community.

Here are 20 inspirational images to help you imagine what it’s like to spend time at Cinnamon Shore from January through December! Visit cinnamonshore.com to learn more.

No. 1 Beach Bonfires! We do all the set-up—just sit back and be mesmerized. Learn More. (https://www.cinnamonshore.com/things-to-do/essentials-and-extras/bonfire-on-the-beach)

No. 2 Romantic Dinners. Don’t miss cozy Lisabella’s Bistro & Bar, offering
Dinner for 2 on Valentine’s Day! Make Reservations! (https://www.cinnamonshore.com/things-to-do/events/valentines-dinner-for-2lisabellas-bistro-bar/335)

No. 3 Spring Break Smiles! One of three community pools, Kiera’s Pool overlooks Lake Gavin. Learn More. (https://www.cinnamonshore.com/things-to-do/free-activities/pool-time)

No. 4 Family Time at the Shore! Enjoy the broad, firm beaches of Mustang Island. Photo: Shannon Lafayette

No. 5 S’more Nights. Great Lawn or on the Beach! Learn More (https://www.cinnamonshore.com/things-to-do/free-activities/smores-night)

No. 6 The Views! Vacation rental homes overlook Lake Colby, Lake Gavin and the Gulf. Check availability. (https://www.cinnamonshore.com/rentals)

No. 7 Spacious Gathering Spaces! Hang out here. See what’s available.(https://www.cinnamonshore.com/rentals)

No. 8 Easter Egg Hunt! It’s on the Town Center green with 10,000 eggs!

No. 9 Live Music! We book great acts all year long. Check our calendar! (https://www.cinnamonshore.com/things-to-do/events)

No. 10 Improve Sandcastle Skills. Texas SandFest is in April, and we offer Sandcastle Building Lessons! Photo: Shannon Lafayette (https://www.cinnamonshore.com/things-to-do/free-activities/sandcastle-lessons)

No. 11 Wake-Up to This! Talk about rooms with a view! Find a beachy bedroom.(https://www.cinnamonshore.com/rentals)

No. 12 Father’s Day Fun. We make the weekend special for dad.

No. 13 Walls of Windows. Don’t you love this window-wrapped dining nook?

No. 14 Sunsets! Gorgeous skies over Lake Gavin and the Gulf.

No. 15 Easy Access. Sturdy dune crossovers take you directly to the beach. Photo: Shannon Lafayette

No. 16 Paddleboard Yoga. Seasonal sessions at our Dune Pool. Learn More. Photo: Shannon Lafayette (https://www.cinnamonshore.com/things-to-do/free-activities/yoga-on-the-beach)

No. 17 The Pizza! Popular Dylan’s Coal Oven Pizzeria opened last summer! Learn More.(https://www.cinnamonshore.com/things-to-do/dining/dylans-coal-oven-pizzeria)

No. 18 4th of July. Great patriotic, family fun!

No. 19 Bunk Rooms. Kids love the fun, built-in style many rentals offer. Find a your bunk room (https://www.cinnamonshore.com/rentals)

No. 20 Coastal Christmas. We’re decked out from Thanksgiving through New Year’s!

Known for its welcoming, cottage charm and resort-like amenities, Cinnamon Shore represents the best of coastal architecture and quality construction on the Texas Coast. For more on the community, visit https://www.cinnamonshore.com/. For more about real estate, visit http://www.cinnamonshorerealty.com/ or call 361-749-1851.

About Cinnamon Shore
Cinnamon Shore is a pedestrian-friendly planned community nestled behind the protective dunes on Mustang Island along the Texas Gulf Coast. It is the first new urbanism development for Sea Oats Group, which is fulfilling its vision of a traditional seaside village with a wide array of amenities and recreational facilities intertwined with beach cottages, luxury villas and vibrant town centers. Now comprised of two communities – the original, Cinnamon Shore North, and its new, 150-acre, Gulf-side expansion, Cinnamon Shore South – the master plan embraces the natural ambience of Mustang Island and the slow-paced charm of a walkable neighborhood. For more, visit http://www.CinnamonShore.com, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter (@CinnamonShore).

About Sea Oats Group
Port Aransas-based Sea Oats Group is one of the most successful developers of coastal properties in any market nationwide, including the Texas Gulf Coast, where the value of its beachfront portfolio is unequalled. The firm is dedicated to creating traditional neighborhood developments that provide residents with the highest possible quality of life, while preserving the integrity of the resort landscapes they occupy. By combining living spaces with retail areas in a walkable, connected plan, Sea Oats Group weaves together beautiful places to live, work and play. For more information, visit www.SeaOatsGroup.com.

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

Carmel Jewish Film Festival Celebrates 10th Anniversary with Award-Winning Movies, Speakers, Receptions

Tickets are now on sale for the 10th Annual Carmel Jewish Film Festival (CJFF), featuring 10 films from six countries, noted speakers, and panel discussions.

Salinas, CA, January 27, 2020 - March 7 – 22, 2020, Tickets are now on sale for the 10th Annual Carmel Jewish Film Festival (CJFF), featuring 10 films from six countries, noted speakers, and panel discussions. Film, program, venue information, dates, and times can be found on the CJFF website (www.carmeljff.org). Tickets will be available either through the website or by calling (800) 838-3006.

Festival highlights include:

OPENING NIGHT (MARCH 7)

“Fiddler: Miracle of Miracles”
When "Fiddler on the Roof" opened on Broadway in 1964, it explored themes of tradition, religion, and anti-Semitism against a modern backdrop of radical social change that addressed gender roles, sexuality, and race. Rare archival footage and interviews with musical luminaries explore the legacy of this long-running, award-winning musical. Broadway actor Michael Bernardi will answer questions entertain following the film. Michael is the youngest actor to play Tevye on Broadway and is the son of actor Herschel Bernardi.

“VIOLINS OF HOPE” (MARCH 8)
Marking the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, the Violins of Hope will visit Northern California and make an appearance at the Carmel Jewish Film Festival. Some of these violins were played in concentration camps to entertain Nazis and lift the spirits of fellow prisoners; others were played in ghettos and labor camps to earn money for food. These instruments were restored in Israel and are a testament to the remarkable resilience of the human spirit. The CJFF is partnering with the Monterey County Symphony and Chamber Music Monterey for this event.

Following a film about the Violins of Hope, renowned violinist Cookie Segelstein of Berkeley, CA, will play some the actual instruments, tell their stories, and talk about the cultural significance of music in Jewish communities in Eastern Europe. This program is part of Violins of Hope San Francisco Bay Area, presented in association with Music at Kohl Mansion, Burlingame, CA. A reception will precede the film.

“BUDAPEST NOIR” (March 14)
The CJFF will host a Q&A with award-winning filmmaker Éva Gardos following this thriller set in Budapest in the politically fraught autumn of 1936. The film follows a scrappy reporter as he probes the murder of a femme fatale, leading him into the dark crime underworld. Francis Ford Coppola gave Gardos, born in Hungary, her first job in film, working as a production assistant on Coppola’s epic “Apocalypse Now”. She went on to establish a career as a film editor (“Valley Girl”, “Mask”, “Bastard Out of Carolina”), working with distinguished directors such as Barbet Schroeder, Peter Bogdanovich, and Anjelica Huston.

Éva’s screenwriting and feature film directorial debut, the award-winning “An American Rhapsody”, starred a young Scarlett Johansson. The film is based on the true life events of Éva’s family escaping from Hungary in the 1950s.

“THE ACCOUNTANT OF AUSCHWITZ” (March 15)
Partnering with the Catholic Diocese and the Unitarian Universalist Church Of Monterey, the CJFF will screen a Canadian film “The Accountant of Auschwitz”. In 2015, 94-year-old former German SS officer Oskar Groning admitted his guilt and went on trial. But bringing war criminals to justice asks fundamental moral questions with few simple answers. From Nuremberg to the new alt-right, this documentary is a stark reminder to “never forget”. A panel with Rabbi Jeff Schulman, Father Jerry Maher, and Reverend Elaine Gehrmann will follow the film.

NIGHT OF SHORTS (March 19)
Tiffany Shlain, ,TED speaker, author and founder of the Webby Awards, Ken Goldberg, artist, inventor, and roboticist at UC Berkeley, and Michael Horwitz – all award-winning filmmakers will be participating in a Q & A following the screening of some of their films. Tiffany and Ken will be signing their book, 24/6: The Power of Unplugging Once a Week.

CLOSING NIGHT (MARCH 22)
The CJFF also will partner with the local Muslim community for the Closing Night selection Abe, a Brazilian film centered on a teen curious about his family’s Middle Eastern culinary heritage. A reception with Israeli and Arab dishes will precede the film. A talkback with Rabbi Bruce Greenbaum and Abdel Seck, President of the local Islamic community, will follow the film.

As the only Jewish film festival in Monterey County, we serve all residents with our efforts to promote understanding, respect, and cooperation through education using the medium of film. While informed by a uniquely Jewish sensibility, our films communicate themes and messages with universal appeal to a wide audience drawn from the Monterey Peninsula and beyond. Our festival’s accompanying programs further engage mind and heart through discussion and social interaction. We hope that our festival will help bridge cultural and religious differences and contribute to community solidarity and peace.

Additional information about all films and events, including ticket prices, can be found on the Carmel Jewish Film Festival website (www.carmeljff.org).

Contact
Susan Greenbaum
831-277-3211
greenbaumcarmel@sbcglobal.net

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

Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History Hosts Annual Wildflower Show on April 17-19, Showcasing More than 600 Species and Varieties of Wildflowers

The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History continues the colorful, springtime tradition of the 59th annual Wildflower Show

Pacific Grove, CA, January 24, 2020 - The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History continues the colorful, springtime tradition of the 59th annual Wildflower Show, the most comprehensive and spectacular array of wildflowers in the Northern and Western Hemispheres.

Joining forces with the Monterey Bay Chapter of the California Native Plant Society (CNPS), the museum hosts this cherished event on April 17-19, showcasing more than 600 species and varieties of wildflowers.

Held each day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Wildflower Show is the largest and longest-running event of its kind — one that has captivated generations of families.

More than 30 members of the Native Plant Society spent many days scouring Monterey County and beyond to collect the finest specimens of wildflowers blooming that spring. Botanists, garden enthusiasts, and people just looking for flowers for their gardens will all appreciate this collection.

Tickets to the Wildflower Show may be purchased at the museum on the days of the show.

· $8.95 for all adults

· $5.95 for youths ages 4-18, students with ID, military from outside of Monterey County and Seniors

· Free for 3 years old and under

· Free for museum members and CNPS members with membership cards

For more information, 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

Watsonville YMCA to Host Open House on Jan, 25, 2020

Watsonville YMCA will host an open house on Jan. 25, 2020, so the community can try out the Y for free and see what it has to offer.

Salinas, CA, January 23, 2020 — Watsonville YMCA will host an open house on Jan. 25, 2020, so the community can try out the Y for free and see what it has to offer.

The open house will be held from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Jan. 25, 2020, at the Watsonville YMCA Family Center, 27 Sudden Street, Watsonville.

There will be free fitness assessments and orientations during the open house, as well as family arts and crafts, and demo fitness classes from 11:30 am-1 p.m. Demo classes will include Spin, Kidfit, Bootcamp, Kid Zumba, and Zumba classes. Healthy lifestyle information will also be available.

Also, join the YMCA that day and the Y will waive the enrollment fee and give you $50 of Y-Bucks, for a total savings of $100. Present the Y Bucks card for discounts on exercise classes, sports, after-school programs, personal training and more (some restrictions apply). This special offer expires Jan. 31, 2020. Y-Bucks are non-transferable and not redeemable for cash.

For more information, call (831) 728-9622, email Stephany Soto, Senior Membership and Wellness Director, at ssoto@ymcacentralcoast.org, or go to the Central Coast YMCA website at: centralcoastymca.org.

About the Central Coast YMCA
Formed in 1989, the Central Coast YMCA began with the merger of two independent YMCAs; the Salinas Community YMCA (founded in 1921) and the Watsonville Family YMCA (founded in 1898). Originally a USO built in 1941, with the purpose of supporting American troops during World War II, the YMCA of the Monterey Peninsula joined the association in 1990. In 1998 the South County YMCA became the fourth branch in the association, extending its service area to the residents of south Monterey County. The YMCA of San Benito County became the fifth and most recent addition to the association in 1999.

CCYMCA is an independent, private, nonprofit corporation, a part of the YMCA of the USA, but responsible for its own policies, programs, and budgets. It employs 27 full-time employees, about 225 part-time employees, and 120 volunteers who impact approximately 40,000 people in Santa Cruz, San Benito, and Monterey counties.

For more information on Central Coast YMCA, call (831) 757-4633 or go to centralcoastymca.org. CCYMCA is located at 500 Lincoln Ave. in Salinas.

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

Western Food Safety Summit Announces ‘Extremely Strategic’ Speaker Lineup for May 6-7 Event

The 2020 Annual Western Food Safety Summit in Salinas, Calif., has confirmed an expert lineup of industry and research experts as speakers for its May 6-7 event at Hartnell College – each focused on a theme of “Creating a Sustainable Food Safety Culture.”

Salinas, CA, January 23, 2020 - The 2020 Annual Western Food Safety Summit in Salinas, Calif., has confirmed an expert lineup of industry and research experts as speakers for its May 6-7 event at Hartnell College – each focused on a theme of “Creating a Sustainable Food Safety Culture.”

Kicking off the first day as keynote speaker will be Tim York, president of Markon Cooperative Inc., which maintains a field-to-fork 5-Star Food Safety program. A former Produce Marketing Association director and chair, he is a founding member of the Stewardship Index for Specialty Crops.

The second day’s morning keynote will be delivered by Dennis Donohue, director of the Western Growers Center for Innovation & Technology, a premier agtech startup incubator based in Salinas. He also is a former longtime produce industry executive.

The two full days of presentations at the Center for Performing Arts on Hartnell’s main campus will feature 12 additional speakers, covering safety issues in equipment, communication, soil, FDA programs and a variety of water-related issues, including sampling and treatment of irrigated water.

A barbecue mixed-grill lunch will be served both days, along with a Networking and Sponsors’ Table, and Day One will conclude with a VIP reception from 4-5:30 p.m., hosted by Scheid Family Wines.

“This year’s summit program is extremely strategic, and that’s because this is an increasingly critical moment for food safety in the fresh fruits and vegetables industry,” said Western Food Safety Summit Chair Jess Hogg, who is quality assurance manager for Scheid Vineyards, based in Salinas.

“Our attendees will receive an enormous amount of timely, actionable information. They’ll be hearing from very thoughtful, knowledgeable individuals on subjects that will be right in their wheelhouse.”

The following is the full lineup of speakers for the 15th annual summit, in addition to the keynotes:

Wednesday, May 6
• “Sanitary Design of Packing Equipment,” Kim Snyder, director of food safety at Monterey Mushrooms Inc.
• “Technologies Available in Today’s Market and How to Increase Communication through Technology,” Bryan Banks, founder and COO of KipTraq.
• “Industry Ag Water Priorities and How the PMA is Involved,” Trever Suslow, vice president of food safety, Produce Marketing Association.
• “Ag Water – Ongoing Research at Arizona State University” (first of two parts), Channah Rock, associate professor of soil, water and environmental services and water quality specialist with University of Arizona Cooperative.
• “A Simplified Guide to Irrigation Water Sampling,” Greg Komar, technical director, California Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement.
• “Procedures and Alternatives to Ensure Type B Water Can Become Type A,” Jim Byron, CEO, Xgenex.
• “Steps in Developing a Comprehensive Water Treatment Program,” Bob Mills, director of food safety, quality assurance and technical services at the Harbinger Group LLC.
• Panel discussion: Trevor Suslow, Channah Rock, Greg Komar, Jim Bryon, Bob Bills and Barry Eisenberg, food safety director for Miles Chemical Co.

Thursday, May 7
• “Organic Matter, Chlorine and Soil Microflora,” Jim Byron, CEO, Xgenex.
• “FDA Sampling Policy and Procedures,” Sonia Salas, assistant vice president for food safety and science at Western Grower.
• “Ag Water – Ongoing Research at Arizona State University” (second of two parts), Channah Rock, associate professor of soil, water and environmental services and water quality specialist with University of Arizona Cooperative.
• “Harvest Equipment Sanitation,” Justin Kerr, owner/manager of Factor IV Solutions LLC.
• “Food Safety Considerations of Pelletized Products,” Mike Menes, vice president of food safety and technology at True Organics Products.
• “Requirements for Better Food Safety,” Kari Valdes, director of food safety and quality assurance at Taylor Farms.

Registration for the summit is available online. The fee is $295 and can be paid with VISA or MasterCard.

For media inquiries:
Scott Faust
Director of Comm. & Marketing
(831) 755-6858
Cell (831) 206-9422
sfaust@hartnell.edu

Sponsorship opportunities area available for a partner donation of $1,000. The sponsorship package includes significant exposure to Salinas Valley agricultural businesses on location throughout the event, a company logo on summit materials, one free registration to the summit and one sponsor’s booth in the common area. Exhibition times are 8-9 a.m. and 2-3 p.m. Learn more on the event webpage.

For sponsorship or registration questions, please call (831) 755-6810.

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

Twisted Roots Winery Celebrates Love with a Bouquet of Events and Promotions during February

It may still be cold outside, but Twisted Roots Winery in Carmel Valley plans special events and promotions during February that are guaranteed to warm your heart.

Carmel Valley, CA, January 22, 2020 — It may still be cold outside, but Twisted Roots Winery in Carmel Valley plans special events and promotions during February that are guaranteed to warm your heart.

Visit the tasting room during the month of love and receive a love note from winery owners Josh and Julie Ruiz. Tasting room customers and wine club members can bring back their sealed envelopes during February to reveal a special deal, such as free swag or even a $50 gift card.

The month isn’t all about Feb. 14. Twisted Roots plans a special happy hour the day BEFORE Valentine’s Day. It’s called Galentine’s Day, popularized by TV’s “Parks and Recreation.”

The concept is simple: Celebrate female friendships the day before the world becomes obsessed with lovey-dovey Valentine’s Day. On Thursday, Feb. 13, Twisted Roots will celebrate with live music, wine specials and a yummy cheese tray. The event is free, but reservations are appreciated through the website www.twistedrootsvineyard.com.

The following day will not be ignored, of course. Bring your someone special to the tasting room on Feb. 14 and find special pricing that everyone will love — 20 percent off bottles.

Don’t forget Open that Bottle Day on Feb. 29. This unofficial but gloriously vinous holiday (invented by former Wall Street Journal wine columnists in 1999) encourages wine drinkers to open a special bottle — because wine is made to be enjoyed! Perhaps it’s our “1918” Old Vine Zinfandel, made from family-owned vines more than 100 years old. Or track down your Valentine’s favorite Twisted Roots wine of all time — and gift an entire case.

Visit our website here and order the perfect bottle for this special day.

Because it’s the month of love, Twisted Roots also offers ideas to help keep things romantic. For example, why not create an at-home Wine ’n’ Love Evening? Choose your love’s favorite Twisted Roots wine, and create (or have catered) the perfect meal to pair with it. Then, have a romantic wine-themed video ready to go, such as the romantic comedy “French Kiss” or the screwball romantic flick “Sideways.” Julie Ruiz loves the Sandra Bullock classic “Hope Floats” for Valentine’s Day (because she loves to drink Twisted Roots bubbles along with it). Josh Ruiz loves to pair Petite Sirah with the movie “Bottle Shock,” while Twisted Roots team member Whitney prefers “How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days.”

Twisted Roots tasting room is at 12 Del Fino Pl., Carmel Valley. Phone: 831-594-8282.

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

Watsonville Business Owner Ricardo Rocha Honored with Statewide Entrepreneurship award, Gives Thanks to El Pájaro CDC for Helping him Overcome Barriers

As a child growing up in Mexico, Ricardo Rocha always dreamed of owning his own business and speaking a second language.

Watsonville, CA, January 21, 2020 - As a child growing up in Mexico, Ricardo Rocha always dreamed of owning his own business and speaking a second language.

Years later he immigrated to California, finding work picking berries and landscaping. Not willing to sacrifice his dream and settle for less, Rocha enrolled in night classes at Cabrillo College while continuing to work in the fields.

There he found his calling.

“I fell in love with computers and what they could do,” he said.

Rocha eventually opened a small computer sales and service office in downtown Watsonville. But his business knowledge was limited, and he ran into multiple barriers.

Then he found El Pájaro Community Development Corporation’s Business Incubator Program at Plaza Vigil in Watsonville. El Pájaro provided him with business coaching, technical assistance and paths to funding.

Today, Rocha operates RVS Technology Group, employing 12 full-time staff with a bimonthly payroll of more than $30,000.

In recognition of his success story, CAMEO (a statewide micro enterprise association) bestowed on Rocha one of only two Faces of Entrepreneurship awards given each year.

Rocha did more than succeed in business, he created an entire industry that was previously nonexistent in Watsonville. Through it all RVS became the city’s first-ever company to start from ground zero through the efforts of an immigrant.

Rocha is immensely proud of that, and does his best to give back. RVS employs young people who are just starting their careers in tech, providing them with good-paying jobs, highly sought-after skills, and growth opportunities.

“It’s an industry that is local, provides jobs for local kids, and gives them growth opportunities,” he said. “It’s great to see these kids come forward and succeed in life, and I’m happy to be a little bridge.”

Rocha pays it forward because he knows he found a helping hand in El Pájaro CDC.

“I was very, very naive about all the aspects needed to run a business,” he said. “I was very blessed to find El Pájaro. They have the foundation to help anyone start a business. They give you a basic understanding of finances, teach you how to read a profit-and-loss statement, and what it all means.”

Another challenge Rocha faced surrounded funding. Whether it was his language limitations or lack of a credit history, banks refused to give him a second look. But with the help of El Pájaro, Rocha was able to secure a loan through the Santa Cruz Community Credit Union.

“I had no credibility, I had no history,” Rocha said.

Ricardo’s determination and unwillingness to give up in the face of adversity put him where he is today. But he also knows he couldn’t have done it without help from others.

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 has helped launch and nurture countless small businesses while bolstering economic development within the community.

“If you give someone an opportunity it 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.”

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

Teresa Sabankaya Will Hold A Posy Pop-Up Boutique at Buttercup Cakes & Farmhouse Frosting Shop in Santa Cruz, Feb. 10-14, 2020

Renowned florist and floral designer Teresa Sabankaya will hold her first pop-up flower boutique of 2020 in February at Buttercup Cakes & Farmhouse Frosting in Santa Cruz.

Bonny Doon, CA, January 17, 2020 — Renowned florist and floral designer Teresa Sabankaya will hold her first pop-up flower boutique of 2020 in February at Buttercup Cakes & Farmhouse Frosting in Santa Cruz.

The Posy Pop-Up by Bonny Doon Garden Company will be held from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Friday, Feb. 10 –14, 2020, at Buttercup Cakes & Farmhouse Frosting, 1411 Pacific Ave., in Santa Cruz. The pop-up will feature a full Valentine’s Day gift boutique, with candles, language of flowers luxe home and body care products, books, and flowers, making it a one-stop shop for Valentine’s Day gifts.

For many years, several businesses in Santa Cruz have invited Teresa to create pop-up flower boutiques for special occasions and especially holidays such as Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Mother’s Day. So, she is working on Posy Pop-ups for whimsical and truly unique flower and botanical gift experiences.

Teresa’s creations are timeless, not trendy, and with a classic garden romance aesthetic. She has been involved with flowers for more than 20 years, is a pioneer of the Slow Flowers™ movement, is an Advanced Certified Green Gardener, and is regarded as one of the most innovative florists in Northern California.

Teresa’s creative, innovative floral arrangements can be purchased with the click of a button at the Bonny Doon Garden Company’s website at https://bonnydoongardenco.bloomnation.com/.

Shop online for local deliveries of flower arrangements throughout Santa Cruz County. Teresa partners with independently owned artisan flower shops through a fine flower network of independent florists, so that flowers can be ordered and delivered by fine florists nationwide, from small and wrapped, to grand and glorious.

Check out her website for new special Valentine’s Day arrangements, including such posy specials as:

>My Valentine Posy – classy and modern, this posy conveys passion, romance, and beauty for the love of your life, $68 plus shipping.

>Sweetheart Posy — Perfect for Valentine’s Day; mother and daughter; new loves, and more, $68 plus shipping.

>Simplement l’Amour — the most popular of the Valentine Posies makes a voluptuous statement in pink and red. This one is a hot and heavy romance posy that elicits fidelity, passion, and timeless eternal love for the love of your life, $68 plus shipping.

Sabankaya recommends pairing a posy arrangement with her new hardcover, signed book, “The Posy Book: Garden-Inspired Bouquets That Tell a Story,” available at https://teresasabankaya.com/products/the-posy-book.

Gifting flowers conveys emotions and messages that can’t always be articulated in words. Sabankaya helps translate those feelings for us in “The Posy Book.”

In addition to Teresa’s flowers, gift items such as, Language of Flower Posy Soaps and Language of Flowers Curated Gift Box, sentiment tags, and “The Posy Book,” can be ordered and shipped nationwide through https://teresasabankaya.com/collections

Last day of shipping for Valentine’s Day arrival must be ordered by Feb. 12 for nationwide shipping of Valentine’s Day posies and gifts.

Check out her website at www.teresasabankaya.com, and also www.bonnydoongardenco.com for more information and gift ideas. You can also talk about your flower order by calling (831) 421-0975.

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

Goodwill Central Coast Increases Community impact by Offering 46 new Job Opportunities for 2020

Through education, training and employment services, Goodwill Central Coast helps rebuild lives, families and communities by removing barriers to employment.

Salinas, CA, January 17, 2020 - Each year GCC assists more than 9,000 job seekers get back to work and reclaim financial and personal independence. In addition, Goodwill also provides meaningful work within the nonprofit itself, increasing its community impact by increasing employment. Effectively, GCC has become a job creator within a job creator, employing more than 550 people.

Thanks to community support and generous donations, Goodwill Central Coast has announced 46 new job openings/career opportunities for the new year. These full-time and part-time benefitted positions are available throughout Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Luis Obispo counties.

The available jobs span all sectors, including management, donation attendants, e-commerce assistants, career center coordinators, drivers, janitors and more. As always, there are great opportunities for advancement.

Job seekers can apply for positions through GCC’s career portal at www.ccgoodwill.org.

About Goodwill Central Coast
Goodwill Central Coast, a private 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, began in 1928 in the city of Santa Cruz and today has expanded into three counties: Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Luis Obispo. Goodwill provides a positive learning environment that creates brighter futures through connecting people to meaningful work.

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

Salinas YMCA Launches ‘New Year, New You’ Membership Campaign for 2020

The Salinas YMCA will help you reach your New Year’s goals with its “New Year, New You!” membership campaign to kick off 2020.

Salinas, CA, January 14, 2020 — The Salinas YMCA will help you reach your New Year’s goals with its “New Year, New You!” membership campaign to kick off 2020.

And if you join before Jan. 31, 2020, the YMCA will waive the joiner fee and give you $50 of Y-Bucks, for a total savings of up to $100. Present the Y Bucks card for discounts on exercise classes, sports, after school programs, personal training and more (some restrictions apply). This special offer expires Jan. 31, 2020. Y-Bucks are non-transferable and not redeemable for cash.

Become a member

Membership in the YMCA comes with great benefits:

>Join a friendly organization that values and supports everyone in your family.

>Focus on your overall health and well-being and find balance in your life.

>Make friends and discover a sense of community in over 50-plus group exercise classes offered each week.

>Grow closer to your loved ones and meet other families in a safe, positive environment.

>Take comfort knowing your child is cared for in our safe, supervised Kids' Zone while you workout.

>Give your children a fun place to play and learn life skills in our youth programs under the guidance of caring adults.

>Volunteer and give back to your community by joining the Y movement.

Nationwide membership is also available. With Nationwide Membership, members can visit any participating Y in the United States through membership at their home Y, at no additional cost. Nationwide Membership enables members to reach their health and wellness goals wherever they live, work, or travel and connect with the larger Y community in meaningful ways.

Please note that access to other Central Coast Y locations requires a Central Coast YMCA membership.

Call Member Services at (831) 758-3811 to schedule a tour today.

About the Central Coast YMCA
The Salinas YMCA’s mission is to strengthen community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility for all who embrace our values.

Formed in 1989, the Central Coast YMCA began with the merger of two independent YMCAs; the Salinas Community YMCA (founded in 1921) and the Watsonville Family YMCA (founded in 1898). Originally a USO built in 1941, with the purpose of supporting American troops during World War II, the YMCA of the Monterey Peninsula joined the association in 1990. In 1998 the South County YMCA became the fourth branch in the association, extending its service area to the residents of south Monterey County. The YMCA of San Benito County became the fifth and most recent addition to the association in 1999.

CCYMCA is an independent, private, nonprofit corporation, a part of the YMCA of the USA, but responsible for its own policies, programs, and budgets. It employs 27 full-time employees, about 225 part-time employees, and 120 volunteers who impact approximately 40,000 people in Santa Cruz, San Benito, and Monterey counties.

For more information on Central Coast YMCA, call (831) 757-4633 or go to centralcoastymca.org. CCYMCA is located at 500 Lincoln Ave. in Salinas.

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

Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History Announces Hiring of New Development Director

The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History has announced that Susan Wolfe has joined the Museum as their Development Director.

Pacific Grove, CA, January 06, 2020 — The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History has announced that Susan Wolfe has joined the Museum as their Development Director.

Wolfe has 25 years work experience in development and communications for nonprofits, governments, and education institutions on three different continents. She has lived on the Monterey Peninsula for 10 years and has worked for both the Middlebury Institute of International Studies and York School in their advancement offices.

Prior to moving to California, Wolfe worked in public relations and government relations for the Vienna International School, Sesame Workshop, the United States Agency for International Development, the Australian Agency for International Development, the National Conference of State Legislatures, and the Connecticut State Senate.

Wolfe will join the PG Museum team to work on the capital campaign, steward major donors, write grants, drive membership, and promote planned giving.

Wolfe lives in New Monterey with her husband and teenage son and enjoys hiking, sailing, and being outdoors.

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 Agassiz, began a national tradition of hands-on science education and nature preservation. The museum has continued this tradition for over 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.

165 Forest Ave., Pacific Grove
(831) 648-5716
admin@pgmuseum.org
www.pgmuseum.org

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

Central Coast YMCA Program Can Help People Get Their High Blood Pressure Under Control

According to the American Heart Association, nearly 80 million adults have high blood pressure in this country.

Salinas, CA, January 06, 2020 — According to the American Heart Association, nearly 80 million adults have high blood pressure in this country. Less than half have it under control. But with the YMCA’s Blood Pressure Self-Monitoring Program, those with high blood pressure will be able to control and manage their condition.

Participants will work with trained Healthy Heart Ambassadors for the duration of the four-month program.

During this time, participants will be encouraged to:

Self-measure their blood pressure at least two times per month
Attend two personalized consultations per month
Attend monthly nutrition education seminars

Participants will record their blood pressure readings using an easy-to-use, self- tracking tool.

The Y will provide options for participants who need a home blood pressure monitor.

Program goals include:
Reduction in blood pressure
Better blood pressure management
Increased awareness of triggers that elevate blood pressure
Enhance knowledge to develop healthier eating habits

To qualify you must be:
At least 18 years of age
Be diagnosed with high blood pressure
Not have experienced a recent cardiac event
Not have atrial fibrillation or other arrhythmias
Not be at risk for lymphedema

High blood pressure is a key, modifiable, risk factor for both heart disease and stroke,
which are two of the leading causes of death in the United States.

For more information on the program, or to see if you qualify for the program, contact Bill Proulx, Director, Healthy Living at (831) 757-4633 or email preventdiabetes@ymcacentralcoast.org.

About the Central Coast YMCA
Formed in 1989, the Central Coast YMCA began with the merger of two independent YMCAs; the Salinas Community YMCA (founded in 1921) and the Watsonville Family YMCA (founded in 1898). Originally a USO built in 1941, with the purpose of supporting American troops during World War II, the YMCA of the Monterey Peninsula joined the association in 1990. In 1998 the South County YMCA became the fourth branch in the association, extending its service area to the residents of south Monterey County. The YMCA of San Benito County became the fifth and most recent addition to the association in 1999.

CCYMCA is an independent, private, nonprofit corporation, a part of the YMCA of the USA, but responsible for its own policies, programs, and budgets. It employs 27 full-time employees, about 225 part-time employees, and 120 volunteers who impact approximately 40,000 people in Santa Cruz, San Benito, and Monterey counties.

For more information on Central Coast YMCA, call (831) 757-4633 or go to centralcoastymca.org. CCYMCA is located at 500 Lincoln Ave. in Salinas.

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