Artichoke Festival returns to Monterey Fairgrounds on July 24-25, 2021, with renewed focus on Local Food, Fun and Entertainment

 With a renewed focus on local food and entertainment, educational agricultural activities, and fun for all ages, the Artichoke Festival returns to the Monterey County Fairgrounds on July 24-25, 2021, with one promise — “Thistle be a Good Time!” 

Monterey, CA, June 29, 2021 — With a renewed focus on local food and entertainment, educational agricultural activities, and fun for all ages, the Artichoke Festival returns to the Monterey County Fairgrounds on July 24-25, 2021, with one promise — “Thistle be a Good Time!” 

Following a year of shelter-in-place restrictions and social distancing, the festival is eager to celebrate the region fondly known as “the Artichoke Center of the World.” 

With the 2021 theme promising fun for all ages while celebrating the famous thistle, the 61st annual event expects to host at least 8,000 visitors over two days. 

California residents are invited to join in the fun, confident that current safety and social distancing protocols will be followed. Advance festival admission tickets will soon be available at www.ArtichokeFestival.org and at the door, ranging from $15 for adults; $5 for youth 6-12, $10 for active military and seniors (62+). Children under 6 are free. Special early-bird ticket packages will be on sale until July 10.

 Back on the menu for 2021 are gourmet artichoke dishes, with products supplied by the region’s top growers. Artichokes will be prepared in a variety of ways, including: fried, steamed, grilled, and in unique forms such as lumpia, burritos, sausage, cupcakes and even ice cream. 

There will be daily cooking demonstrations with local chefs, who will showcase the artichoke’s versatility and unique cooking techniques. 

The first three chefs confirmed so far for the daily Chef Demos include Chef Daniel Elinan, Executive Chef at The Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa; Eduardo Coronel, Executive Chef of Rio Grill in Carmel; and Chef Ivan, part of the Culinary Team at Tarpy’s Roadhouse in Monterey. 

This year’s Chef Demos will be hosted by Partnership for Children, which has been providing transportation to medical care and family support services for children with life-threatening conditions living in Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito counties since 2007. Partnership for Children’s transportation and financial assistance programs increase access to compassionate care for children on the Central Coast. For more about Partnership for Children visit their website at www.partnerforkids.org. 

The festival is also looking for chefs who would like to demonstrate their creative artichoke recipes at the Artichoke Festival Chef Demos. Interested chefs can call Jennifer Ramirez at 831-422-3002, or send her an email at Jennifer@partnerforkids.org. 

Families and festival-goers will enjoy the world-famous farmers’ market, sponsored by Ocean Mist Farms, the largest grower of artichokes in the U.S. New this year are an ag education exhibit and a hot rod car show. Other popular features returning this year are arts and crafts vendors, the artichoke harvest and artichoke eating contests, an artichoke themed quilt competition, and more. 

The Artichoke Festival has plenty of fun for the whole family, including lots of artichoke dishes, chef demonstrations, entertainment, competitions, arts and crafts, and family-friendly activities. 

Fresh from the Fields

Visitors will enjoy a world-famous farmers’ market that offers fresh artichokes, along with other seasonal produce such as asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, celery, corn, peas, fennel, green onions, leeks, mixed lettuce, rapini, spinach and so many other fruits and vegetables, at prices that can’t be beat. 

Enjoy special delicious dishes from the Artichoke Food Court, made with artichokes harvested in Monterey County. From appetizers to dessert, this is how you do chokes: fried baby artichokes, grilled and steamed artichokes, barbecued artichoke sausage sandwiches, artichoke burritos, artichoke lumpia, artichoke soup, and artichoke cupcakes. 

Entertainment

The Central Coast hosts a wondrous array of local entertainment talent, and the Festival’s main stage will showcase some of the most popular from the area, such as “Lost and Found Band” and “Chicano All Stars.” Live music and family stage entertainment are free to all attendees. 

A local arts advocacy program will showcase the talents and works of community artists from throughout the area, featuring video, digital, and visual works of art. 

See hot street rides at the car show, both days of the Festival, along with specialty auto vendors and a gift basket raffle. Hosted by Gold Coast Rods, a car club for owners of pre-1985 American cars, viewing is free for general admission attendees. An awards ceremony for winning entrants will be held on Sunday afternoon. 

Arts and Crafts

A Quilt Competition will feature one-of-a-kind handmade quilts made especially for the Artichoke Festival, and will be on display on Saturday, July 24 and Sunday, July 25. Festival attendees can vote their favorite for the People’s Choice Award, to be announced on Sunday. 

Local treasures abound! Arts & Crafts vendors will set up shop for guests to peruse everything from candy apples and artichoke hummus, to beautiful jewelry, soaps and lotions. You’ll find the fun, unique handmade items you can’t find in stores. 

Children’s Activities

Family members of all ages will have fun at the carnival, complete with rides and games, like the 100-foot Super Slide, a Ferris Wheel, and more to keep the excitement flowing. 

Kids of all ages love Arti the Artichoke – the official mascot of Ocean Mist Farms, voted the Salinas area fan favorite mascot. Arti will be present at the Festival for photo opportunities and awards ceremonies. 

Festival Traditions

Attendees can learn about what it takes to grow this unique vegetable. Get a crash course in artichoke husbandry by Castroville’s Artichoke growing experts at the “Talk to a Grower” exhibit in the Farmers Market, both days of the Festival. 

An artichoke-harvesting competition using the same authentic “canasta” baskets used in the artichoke harvesting process, is a race against fellow festival-goers. It’s not as easy as it looks! 

How many artichokes can you choke down? Find out, and win bragging rights at the Artichoke Eating Contest, both days at the Main Stage. 

Festival proceeds will benefit nonprofit organizations and programs that serve the greater Castroville community. This year, onsite activities will directly benefit nonprofit partners, which include Partnership for Children and the Marina Lion’s Club. The festival gives back to nonprofit programs that include local senior centers, sports and parks and recreation activities in North Monterey County schools, and other community enrichment programs, to name a few. 

For more information on this year’s festival, visit www.artichokefestival.org. 

Contact:

Marci Bracco Cain
The Buzz PR LLC
Salinas, CA
(831) 747-7455
http://www.artichokefestival.org

Tickets for the Garlic Festival Golf Classic and the Farm-to-Table Dinner at Fortino Winery are now on sale through Eventbrite

 Tickets to both events are limited and will sell out quickly, so put your order in as soon as possible. 

Gilroy, CA, June 28, 2021 - The Garlic Festival Golf Classic will be held Friday, July 30th at Gilroy Golf Course, located at 2695 Hecker Pass Highway. The event will include a silent auction and great Garlic Festival food. The Golf Classic is sponsored by Pinnacle Bank. Golfers can sign up for the cause for $150. Hole sponsorships are available for $500, along with numerous other sponsorship opportunities. 

Gilroy Garlic Festival Golf Classic Event 

Gilroy Garlic Festival Farm-to-Table Dinner Event 

The Farm-to-Table Dinner will be held from 5-9 p.m. Saturday, July 24th at Fortino Winery, 4525 Hecker Pass Highway in Gilroy. The caterer/chef for the dinner will be Relish Kitchen & Drink, featuring Executive Chef Diane Sturla. The Farm-to-Table is sponsored by Pinnacle Bank and Mission Valley Ford. The cost for the dinner is $175 per person. 

Drive-thru, which will be held on the weekends of July 23rd, 24th, and 25th, and July 30th, 31st, and Aug. 1st, at Gilroy Presbyterian Church, located at 6000 Miller Ave., you can reserve your Drive-Thru order starting July 1. 

Here is a sneak peek at the menu: 

APPETIZERS: 

Savory, creamy goat cheese panna cotta, served with roasted beets and aromatic fennel jus 

Shrimp cocktail served with a spicy, pickled Christopher Ranch garlic sauce 

Savory and flaky corn and Gruyere gougères 

SALAD: 

Fresh summer watermelon and heirloom tomato salad with peppery arugula, tangy feta cheese, and sweet-tart balsamic glaze 

Entrees:  (Choice Of) Prime Filet, black truffle-dotted mac and cheese, rich Cabernet jus, delicate baby carrots, and roasted asparagus 

Sous Vide Mary's Chicken featuring boneless, skinless chicken breast served with tender gnocchi, rich sherry cream sauce, delicate baby carrots, and umami-rich mushrooms Creamy Parmesan polenta with earthy mushrooms and hearty vegetable Bourguignon 

Sponsors of the dinner include several local businesses contributing back to the community they live in, including Frantoio Grove, which has donated 250 bottles of its premium olive oil; Headstart Nursery, which has donated 140 herb pots for decorating tables and Mission Valley Ford, which is a $5,000 Spicy Level Sponsor for the dinner. Additional sponsorship opportunities are still available. 

“We, like so many other non-profits, are doing our best to manage these trying times, while building a path forward where the Gilroy Garlic Festival Association can once again achieve its mission in this community,” said Tom Cline, current President of the Gilroy Garlic Festival Association. 

Additional details will be posted on the Association’s website at www.gilroygarlicfestivalassociation.com. 

Thank you to Our Sponsors 

Sponsorships Available.  To learn more click button below. 

About the association

The Gilroy Garlic Festival Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has distributed more than $12 million to the community through its annual, family-friendly celebration of the famous bulb since 1979. Local nonprofits participating in the festival have raised millions more. The Gilroy Garlic Festival Association aims to be a chain that links together residents, businesses, nonprofits, faith groups, schools, and other local institutions in a collaborative and supportive expression of “community.” 

GILROY GARLIC FESTIVAL ASSOCIATION, INC.

PO Box 2311

Gilroy, CA 95021 

Email: mediarelations@gilroygarlicfestival.com

Phone:  408.842.1625 | Fax:  408.842.7337 

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
The Buzz PR LLC
Salinas, CA
(831) 747-7455
http://www.gilroygarlicfestivalassociation.com

Planned over two weekends, this Summer’s Gilroy Garlic Festival has Announced a Series of events, that includes a Golf tournament

 “This will be a great event for local golfers to support the work of the Association,” said Tom Cline, current president of the association. 

Gilroy, CA, June 17, 2021 - “This will be a great event for local golfers to support the work of the Association,” said Tom Cline, current president of the association. “In the past, there have been supporting events leading up to the Festival. This is part of our legacy in the community”. 

Golfers can sign up for the cause for $150. Hole sponsorships are available for $500, along with numerous other sponsorship opportunities. The event will include a silent auction and great Garlic Festival Food. Proceeds from the Gilroy Garlic Festival Golf Classic on July 30 at Gilroy Golf Course will benefit the Gilroy Garlic Festival Association, which has distributed more than $12 million to community groups since 1979. 

Gilroy Garlic Festival Days 2021 takes place over the weekends of July 23-25 and July 30-Aug. 1. This includes showcasing the distinctive food from Gourmet Alley at a series of drive-thru events at Gilroy Presbyterian Church. Other events include a Farm-to-Table dinner at Fortino Winery, along with the golf tournament. 

Additional details will be posted on the Association’s website at www.gilroygarlicfestivalassociation.com. 

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
The Buzz PR LLC
Salinas, CA
(831) 747-7455
https://gilroygarlicfestivalassociation.com/

Max's Helping Paws Foundation Receives $10,000 Grant from Harden Foundation

Max's Helping Paws Foundation, which provides financial assistance to people with pets in need of urgent veterinary care, recently received a $10,000 grant from the Harden Foundation to continue its important work in the community. 

Carmel CA, June 15, 2021 - Max's Helping Paws Foundation, which provides financial assistance to people with pets in need of urgent veterinary care, recently received a $10,000 grant from the Harden Foundation to continue its important work in the community. 

The Harden Foundation, based in Salinas and established in 1963 by Ercia and Gene Harden, provides funding to a variety of qualified nonprofit organizations in Monterey County that serve local communities. 

For more information on Max's Helping Paws Foundation, call (831) 704-6473 or go to www.maxshelpingpaws.org. 

About Max's Helping Paws Foundation

Max's Helping Paws Foundation (MHPF) was co-founded in 2016 by Dyana Klein and her husband and veterinary internist, Dr. Jonathan Fradkin, in memory of their pet, Maximillian. The foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit that supports all Monterey County veterinary practices to provide financial assistance to clients with pets in need of both critical short-term or longer-term care for chronic illness. Since it first started providing financial assistance in mid-2017, MHPF has granted more than $450,000 to give hundreds of pets a second chance. MHFP is based in Monterey County and serves only Monterey County. Max's Helping Paws Foundation (831) 704-6473 and info@maxshelpingpaws.org. 

Media interviews available with Max's Helping Paws Foundation Executive Director Dyana Klein, email Marci@TheBuzzPR.net

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
The Buzz PR LLC
Salinas, CA
(831) 747-7455
https://www.maxshelpingpaws.org/

Public invited July 2 to Preview PG Museum’s New Exhibit ‘Changes,’ Meet New Executive Director

 Facing perhaps its most profound set of challenges since it opened in 1883, the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History couldn’t help but experience changes during this past year. 

Pacific Grove, CA, June 14, 2021 — Facing perhaps its most profound set of challenges since it opened in 1883, the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History couldn’t help but experience changes during this past year. Change is a natural process in life — also seen over time in the very ecosystems the museum celebrates.

On Friday, July 2, the general public is invited to the aptly named Changes of Monterey exhibit, and meet the museum’s new Executive Director Carla Bitter. Despite being closed for much of 2020, the museum designed and launched “Changes,” which celebrates the habitats of Monterey County and raises awareness about human impacts on our delicate ecosystems over time. The exhibit shows that humans have the ability to make choices that will lead to positive changes in our local environment. It will be a day of wonder from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. with special evening activities during Pacific Grove’s First Friday celebrations from 6-9 p.m. 

Bitter’s 20-year professional museum career has spanned field archaeology, science museums and zoo programs, outreach and exhibit development, with a career highlight as the EPO Manager (Education & Public Outreach) for NASA's Phoenix Mars Lander Mission. 

Hired at PGMNH in April, Bitter has helped develop and led an array of science and museum experiences, with positions at the Museum of Flight, Woodland Park Zoo, Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History (Washington, D.C.), and the NSF Science & Technology Center, devoted to arid land and riparian hydrology at the University of Arizona. Bitter has served on multiple NASA, NOAA and IMLS (Institution of Museum and Library Services) review panels in support of climate, earth and space science public education. A biologist with an MS in molecular genetics/conservation ecology, Bitter places great emphasis on public science communication of complex topics through education programs, exhibits and community outreach. 

Currently open Friday through Monday (10 a.m. - 4 p.m.) with Thursday being added on July 1st. Following CA guidelines, we will be open to full capacity by June 15 and masks will still be required. In addition, The museum will remain open on Independence Day, Sunday, July 4, with regular hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) 

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 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. For more information visit www.pgmuseum.org. 

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

Artichoke Festival returns to Monterey Fairgrounds on July 24-25, 2021, with renewed focus on local food, fun

 With a renewed focus on local food, entertainment and ag-themed activities, the Artichoke Festival returns to the Monterey County Fairgrounds on July 24-25, 2021, with one promise — “Thistle be a Good Time!” 

Monterey, CA, June 11, 2021 — With a renewed focus on local food, entertainment and ag-themed activities, the Artichoke Festival returns to the Monterey County Fairgrounds on July 24-25, 2021, with one promise — “Thistle be a Good Time!” 

Following a year of shelter-in-place restrictions and social distancing, the festival is eager to celebrate the region fondly known as “the Artichoke Center of the World.” 

 

With the 2021 theme promising fun for all ages while celebrating the famous thistle, the 61st annual event expects to host at least 8,000 visitors over two days. 

California residents are invited to join in the fun, confident that current safety and social distancing protocols will be followed. Advance festival admission tickets will soon be available at www.ArtichokeFestival.org and at the door, ranging from $15 for adults; $5 for youth 6-12, $10 for active military and seniors (62+). Children under 6 are free. Special early-bird ticket packages will be on sale until July 10. 

Back on the menu for 2021 are gourmet artichoke dishes, with products supplied by the region’s top growers. Artichokes will be prepared in a variety of ways, including: fried, steamed, grilled, and in unique forms such as lumpia, burritos, sausage, cupcakes and even ice cream. 

There will be daily cooking demonstrations with local chefs, who will showcase the artichoke’s versatility and unique cooking techniques. 

The first three chefs confirmed so far for the daily Chef Demos include Chef Daniel Elinan, Executive Chef at The Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa; Eduardo Coronel, Executive Chef of Rio Grill in Carmel; and Chef Ivan, part of the Culinary Team at Tarpy’s Roadhouse in Monterey. 

This year’s Chef Demos will be hosted by Partnership for Children, which has been providing transportation to medical care and family support services for children with life-threatening conditions living in Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito counties since 2007. Partnership for Children’s transportation and financial assistance programs increase access to compassionate care for children on the Central Coast. For more about Partnership for Children visit their website at www.partnerforkids.org. 

The festival is also looking for chefs who would like to demonstrate their creative artichoke recipes at the Artichoke Festival Chef Demos. Interested chefs can call Jennifer Ramirez at 831-422-3002, or send her an email at Jennifer@partnerforkids.org. 

Families and festival-goers can expect a bountiful farmer’s market, as well as new this year, an ag education exhibit, a new car show hosted by Gold Coast Rods, and a new carnival. Other popular features returning this year include arts and crafts vendors, the artichoke harvest contest, a new art exhibit, and more. The wine-tasting event had to be cancelled due to safety precautions and social distancing protocols. 

Festival proceeds will benefit nonprofit organizations and programs that serve the greater Castroville community. This year, onsite activities will directly benefit nonprofit partners, which include Partnership for Children and the Marina Lion’s Club. The festival gives back to nonprofit programs that include local senior centers, sports and parks and recreation activities in North Monterey County schools, and other community enrichment programs. 

While not hosting the AgroArt competition this year, Ocean Mist Farms continues to support the Festival with cash donations and by donating artichokes and other produce for the Farmer’s Market and artichoke specialty food booths. 

For more information visit www.artichokefestival.org. 

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

Brand-New Phase 5 Now Open at Cinnamon Shore South to Meet Surging Demand

 

More than 60 new sites become available, joining a dozen new homes for Memorial Day Weekend Release

Port Aransas, Texas, June 09, 2021 — With rolling property releases this summer meant to satisfy a surge of interest, Cinnamon Shore South saw $16 million in sales at its most recent event on Sat., May 29. Eighty serious buyers paid a $5,000 refundable fee to participate, vying to make a purchase as the developer released Phase 5 sooner than anticipated and offered 12 homes located in previous phases.

New Phase 5 home sites, starting in the $200,000s and located along parks, a new pool and a pond on the far north side of the village, joined a handful of sites in earlier phases for the May 29th release, along with the dozen homes that are currently under design review. Construction starts for these new homes are slated for 2022 at this $1.3 billion expansion of the original Cinnamon Shore community.

“We are thrilled that so many people have discovered the Cinnamon Shore lifestyle and want to be a part of our newest village on the Texas Coast,” said Developer Jeff Lamkin. “Even before we can prepare the infrastructure to support construction, people are wanting to buy this coastal property. It’s gratifying, and it’s a testament to the very bright future of Cinnamon Shore and its expansion at ‘South.’”

Buyers secured participation in Saturday’s release by making a Priority Reservation, enjoying exclusive pricing on the available properties. Future releases will be announced for summer 2021. “We are making homes and property available to the buyers just as soon as we can, thanks to the tremendous interested we’re seeing,” said Managing Broker Jodi Peters of Cinnamon Shore Realty.

The group of new homes offered over Memorial Day Weekend will be built by experienced and respected coastal homebuilders. With names like Lemonade, A Wave From It All and  Splash Pad, the 12 homes range from 2,000-square-foot, cottage-style beach homes to a 5,700-square-foot,Gulf-front offering that’s sure to become a landmark at South. More and more homes from acclaimed architects and builders will get green lights from the community’s design review board to accommodate buyer interest.

Newly released Phase 5 features athletic fields, green spaces, a neighborhood pool, and a larger pool with restaurant and bar service, and it connects to the rest of Cinnamon Shore South via walkways that thread through yet-to-be=developed phases of this 300-acre, beachside community. Located 1.5 miles south of the original Cinnamon Shore, South will ultimately be three times as large. The new village broke ground in fall 2018 and boasts a roster of top Texas architects, builders and designers tapped to realize a master plan by Mark Schnell of Florida’s Schnell Urban Designs. The tenets of New Urbanism guide the development—aiming to foster a return to traditional neighborhoods that feel friendly and walkable.

Future releases of homes and more sites in Phase 5 and in Phase 6 are coming soon. For more, call Cinnamon Shore Realty at 361-749-1851 or visit cinnamonshore.com/real-estate.

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 – every detail of the master plan for both is designed to embrace the natural ambience of Mustang Island and the slow-paced charm of a walkable neighborhood. For more information, 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
The Buzz PR, LLC.
Salinas, CA
(831) 747-7455
http://www.CinnamonShore.com

New Book - Letters from THE HEART: A Young Army Doctor's 1969 Vietnam War Experience

 New Book Released in Time for Memorial Day: “Letters from THE HEART: A Young Army Doctor’s 1969 Vietnam War Experience” 

San Diego, CA, June 09, 2021 - Step back in time with a riveting new book about Vietnam, seen through the lens of an anesthesiologist who saved countless lives during 1969, the year he served in Vietnam. 

Letters from THE HEART: A Young Army Doctor’s 1969 Vietnam War Experience by Dr. Jonathan and Sherrie Benumof takes a fascinating look back at the grounding in medicine that Dr. Jonathan L. Benumof received during the Vietnam War. He endured and persevered through the trauma and drama with the love and correspondence with wife Sherrie, often accompanied by her banana oatmeal chocolate chip cookies, and preserved in these 282 Letters from The Heart. Dr. Benumof went on to become one of the top Anesthesiologists in the world, publishing numerous definitive books in his field: critical resources that other physicians continue to rely upon. 

The book includes an introductory commentary by the authors regarding important issues, events, thoughts and feelings that provides a very helpful context to the rest of the book, as well as a brief look at their lives after 1969. This intimate memoir speaks well to Dr. Benumof's character and his dedication to family and humankind. 

Letters from THE HEART provides a fascinating look at history through the daily lens of an intelligent and articulate physician, born in New York, who was drafted to serve in Vietnam for a year. Married to his wife for just 6 months, they agreed to write daily letters to each other, which ultimately became the mental lifeline of hope that sustained Dr. Benumof through a year of disheartening conflict that often seemed to stretch on forever. 

Following a mere three months of on-the-job anesthesia training (at his first Army assignment at Fort Knox, Kentucky), the author was sent to serve as an anesthesiologist in his MASH Unit, the 18th Surgical Hospital in the Fire Base "Camp Evans." Located just south of the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) in Vietnam, it was considered one of the most dangerous places during the TET offensive, and MD anesthesia providers were badly needed. The author dedicated himself to saving the lives of wounded soldiers to the best of his growing abilities in operating conditions where the heat could exceed 120 degrees and often during constant bombardment by the North Vietnamese Army. 

The book is inspiring for all readers as the author depicts his struggles through depression and the monotony of day to day living outside the operating room. His love for his wife and her love for him are a constant within each letter. If he had not received his wife's nearly daily letters, audiotapes, photos and care packages, he probably would not have survived to conquer his anxiety and depression brought on by the horrors of the war. Every day he focused on his hope of returning to start a happy, loving family life with her. 

After a year of brutal service in Vietnam, Dr. Benumof returned to the United States and through hard work and dedication became world-renowned as a top Anesthesiologist. His accomplishments revealed the importance of keeping hope in our lives. His year in Vietnam left some lasting scars as he continued to suffer from PTSD and alcoholism for decades after he returned to the United States. With the support of family and others, he eventually sought treatment and has lived a life of sobriety since November 2008. 

His time in Vietnam was very difficult and his letters give all of us a front row seat into his thoughts, emotions and the hard work that he did while he was there for the year. Just as important was his determination to do his very best for the soldiers and others he treated and to keep his hope strong for the future. 

For his work in Vietnam, he was awarded a prestigious Bronze Star as appreciation for his service. Dr. Benumof shares the impact of the lack of welcome home or gratitude by Americans for those in the military who returned home after their difficult missions. It was not until 2012 that President Barack Obama established the Vietnam War Veterans Day, long overdue. 

TITLE: Letters from THE HEART: A Young Army Doctor’s 1969 Vietnam War Experience 

Publisher: Park Place Publications

Non-Fiction / Memoir

ISBN: 978-1-95312020-5

6” x 9”, 434 pages

Trade paperback, $24.95 retail

Book release date: April 2021

Available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, other online booksellers 

Publicity Contact: Wendy Brickman, (831) 594-1500 or Brickman@Brickmanmarketing.com

 

Contact:
Wendy Brickman
Brickman Marketing
395 Del Monte Center #250
Monterey, CA 93940
(831) 594-1500
Brickman@Brickmanmarketing.com

https://www.brickmanmarketing.com/

Gilroy Garlic Festival Gourmet Alley makes its Drive-Thru Debut This July

For four decades, the Gilroy Garlic Festival’s famous Gourmet Alley has attracted strolling visitors with its pungent aroma, enticing flavors, jaw-dropping pyrotechnics, and community spirit. 

Gilroy, CA, June 08, 2021 - Now imagine the world’s most delicious alleyway as a pre-ordered drive-thru, experiencing the “Taste of the Festival”. 

Planned over two weekends of July 23-25 and July 30-Aug. 1 at Gilroy Presbyterian Church, this summer’s new drive-thru format will allow guests to enjoy the spirit and flavor of Gourmet Alley. Fans will be able to pre-order some of their favorites, from juicy pepper steak sandwiches to succulent scampi, world-renowned garlic bread, and much more. 

 

“We have all been confronted with so many changes due to COVID-19,” said Tom Cline, current president of the association, which has distributed more than $12 million to community groups since 1979. “There is a great community desire to see some reminders of Festival past that highlight our community, our commitment to our non-profit partners, and, of course, our love of Garlic.” 

The drive-thru Gourmet Alley will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Fridays and from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. 

The menu includes the following: 

·  Steak Combo: Pepper Steak Sandwich, Shrimp Scampi,

World-Famous Garlic Bread, $25 

·  Sausage Combo: Sausage Sandwich, Shrimp Scampi,

World-Famous Garlic Bread, $25 

·  Pepper Steak Sandwich, $14 

·  Sausage Sandwich, $14

 ·  World-Famous Garlic Bread: Half Loaf, $10 

·  Garlic Fries, $10 

·  Shrimp Scampi, $10 

·  Bottled Water, Soda, $5 

The Farm-To-Table Dinner dinner at Fortino Winery (4525 Hecker Pass Highway) takes place on the evening of Saturday, July 24. The Garlic Festival Golf Classic will be held Friday, July 30 at Gilroy Golf Course (2695 Hecker Pass Road). Additional details will be posted on the association’s website at www.gilroygarlicfestivalassociation.com. 

About the association

The Gilroy Garlic FestivalAssociation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has distributed more than $12 million to the community through its annual, family-friendly celebration of the famous bulb since 1979. Local nonprofits participating in the festival have raised millions more. The Gilroy Garlic Festival Association aims to be a chain that links together residents, businesses, nonprofits, faith groups, schools, and other local institutions in a collaborative and supportive expression of “community.”

GILROY GARLIC FESTIVAL ASSOCIATION, INC.

PO Box 2311

Gilroy, CA 95021 

Email: mediarelations@gilroygarlicfestival.com

Phone:  408.842.1625 | Fax: 408.842.7337

 

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
The Buzz PR, LLC.
Salinas, CA
(831) 747-7455
http://www.gilroygarlicfestivalassociation.com

El Pájaro Regional Women’s Business Center Virtual Grand Opening "Lunch"_ Speakers: Sen. Anna Caballero & Rep. Jimmy Panetta

 El Pájaro Community Development Corporation (El Pájaro CDC) is proud to announce the grand opening of El Pájaro Regional Women’s Business Center (RWBC) and invites the public to join the celebration on Friday, June 18th from 12:00 - 1:00 p.m via Zoom. 

Watsonville, CA, June 04, 2021 — El Pájaro Community Development Corporation (El Pájaro CDC) is proud to announce the grand opening of El Pájaro Regional Women’s Business Center (RWBC) and invites the public to join the celebration on Friday, June 18th from 12:00 - 1:00 p.m via Zoom. 

The keynote speakers for the event include State Senator Anna Caballero of the 12th State Senate District, which encompasses the Salinas Valley and part of the Central Valley, and Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Carmel Valley), who was instrumental in getting the center launched. 

Last year, Congressman Panetta sent a letter to the Small Business Administration urging the establishment of a RWBC on the Central Coast to provide greater resources to local female-identifying business owners. 

“The El Pájaro Regional Women’s Business Center will provide greater opportunities to female entrepreneurs in our communities,” said Panetta. “El Pájaro RWBC will ensure women-owned small businesses have the tools they need to thrive during this bruising pandemic and long after. I was proud to advocate for a WBC on the Central Coast and I look forward to the future success of all who will benefit from the guidance of the El Pájaro RWBC team.” 

Panetta has been an advocate for small businesses and Women’s Business Centers, securing $23 million in Congress’ FY2021 omnibus package. In the 116th Congress, Panetta introduced the Community Economic Development Center Support Act to provide funding to nonprofits such as El Pájaro offering technical assistance to minority and immigrant-owned small businesses and entrepreneurs. 

Women’s Business Centers have been crucial in providing assistance to women entrepreneurs during the pandemic last year. Upon its inauguration, El Pájaro RWBC will join a national network of 136 centers that offer one-on-one counseling, training, networking, workshops, technical assistance, and mentoring to women entrepreneurs on business development. 

In conjunction with Sen. Caballero and Rep. Panetta’s participation at the event, El Pajaro CDC will introduce the Women’s Business Center team, share the powerful success stories of women-owned businesses that have participated in its programs, and unveil its new microloan program. 

During the past few months, El Pajaro CDC received over $1.5 million dollars from government and private funders to develop this new financing program. This represents El Pajaro CDC’s debut as a licensed State of California lender. 

Reservations to attend the virtual event can be made through Eventbrite. The registration cost is a donation of your choice. Additionally, event participants have the option of ordering a delicious vegan lunch from Chef Maria Gonzalez, owner of Cali Dawg, one of our women-owned food businesses. The lunch price is $25 and the menu includes: 

Roasted Corn & Garbanzo Salad- Fresh spring mix, roasted corn, seasoned garbanzo, tomatoes, bacon bits, red onion, shredded carrots, creamy cashew ranch dressing, or strawberry agave dressing. Both dressings are included.

Banana Chocolate Muffin: Chocolate-infused banana muffin with chocolate chips.

Orders will be available for pick-up only on the day of the event at the following sites: 

Salinas: at Park row cafe, 962 Park Row,

Watsonville: at Plaza Vigil, 25 E. Beach St.

If you are not able to place an order due to your location but would like to show your support, we encourage you to donate a lunch ticket to someone who may not be able to afford one via the Eventbrite registration, or to treat yourself to lunch from a women-owned business in your neighborhood! 

About El Pájaro CDC

El Pájaro CDC is a non-profit organization that offers culturally relevant services to underserved and underrepresented entrepreneurs throughout the Central Coast. They support clients in launching their businesses and developing their brands by providing no-cost information, workshops and consultation, training, resources, and business loans. 

Now, with the launch of El Pájaro RWBC, the team hopes to further empower the community of local leaders and entrepreneurs to pursue and reach their full potential. “Our team is excited to expand services and contribute as a key partner of the regional entrepreneurial support ecosystem. By providing accessible and affordable financing, we are helping overcome one of the biggest challenges that small and micro businesses encounter when starting and or expanding their services. We are proud to be one of a very few Latino-founded and led financial institutions in California and we want to celebrate this too” said Carmen Hererra-Mansir, executive director of El Pájaro CDC. 

For more information on the virtual event, please contact El Pájaro CDC at (831) 722-1224 or visit their website at elpajarocdc.org. 

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

Balance Physical Therapy’s Monterey office adds Certified Hand Therapist Margret Kelly to its team

 The human hand represents a triumph of complex engineering, exquisitely evolved to perform a wide range of tasks. 

Monterey, CA, June 02, 2021 — The human hand represents a triumph of complex engineering, exquisitely evolved to perform a wide range of tasks. Because it consists of 27 bones, 27 joints, 34 muscles, more than 100 ligaments and tendons, numerous blood vessels, nerves and soft tissue, it often requires the expertise of a certified hand therapist. 

Based on its reputation as a result-oriented rehabilitation facility committed to helping patients return to an active lifestyle, Balance Physical Therapy and Human Performance Center has expanded its team to include hand therapy services. 

Margret Kelly MS, OTR/L, CHT has joined BPT’s office in Monterey as a certified hand therapist and occupational therapist. Kelly graduated from Pennsylvania State University with a bachelor of science in biobehavioral health before pursuing her Masters in Occupational Therapy at the University of New Hampshire. She chose a career in rehabilitation with the intent of specializing in hand therapy based on an admiration for how the intricacies of the hand and upper extremity lend itself to an individual’s ability to express, experience, connect, and engage throughout life. 

A certified hand therapist (CHT) is a nationally registered occupational therapist or physical therapist who, through advanced continuing education, clinical experience, and integration of anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology, and has become skilled in the evaluation and treatment of upper-quadrant conditions resulting from trauma, disease, or congenital or acquired deformity. A CHT has a minimum of three years and 4,000 hours of clinical experience in hand therapy, successfully passed an examination of advanced clinical skills and theory in upper extremity rehabilitation, and meets mandated criteria to maintain this specialized credential. 

A hand therapist provides care for patients with a diversity of upper extremity disorders and injuries, from simple fingertip injuries to replanted extremities. Therapy is recommended for patients with a variety of diagnoses, including but not limited to: crush injuries; tendon and/or ligament lacerations/repairs; tendinopathies; peripheral nerve disorders; fractures/dislocations; infections; sports-related syndromes. Hand therapists also treat patients who suffer from chronic problems that affect upper extremity function, such as autoimmune disorders, neurological conditions, pain, diabetes, focal dystonia, congenital anomalies, and psychogenic disorders involving the upper quarter. 

Through BPT, Kelly will provide postoperative rehabilitation, non-operative or conservative intervention, preventive care and industrial ergonomic consultation. She enjoys the opportunities for lifelong learning in the specialty of hand therapy and is dedicated to applying the latest evidence-based practices. 

For more information, visit www.balancept.com.

Contact:

Marci Bracco Cain
The Buzz PR, LLC.
Salinas, CA
(831) 747-7455
http://www.balancept.com

Simon Bull’s epic painting pays tribute to Le Mans; to be sold at Pasadera Concours

 Since 1923, an epic, day-long automobile endurance race near the tiny French hamlet of Le Mans has captured the imagination of fans around the world. 

Monterey, CA, June 01, 2021 — Since 1923, an epic, day-long automobile endurance race near the tiny French hamlet of Le Mans has captured the imagination of fans around the world. 

Le Mans has seen photo-finishes, horrific crashes, speed records and the height of automobile innovation. However, throughout the nearly 100-year-long history, the 1960s stand out among all the decades — and automotive artist Simon Bull has captured the spirit of it all in his painting titled “The Decade of Champions." 

 

Bull pays tribute to three classic marques (Ferrari, Ford and Porsche) through the annual poster for Concours at Pasadera, taking place Friday, Aug. 6 at the private country club. 

Bull’s painting will be unveiled at the Meuse Gallery on Ocean Avenue in Carmel, and sold during the Club 100 Dinner following the Concours. It could fetch as much as $40,000. 

Born in England, Bull now lives in Carmel, where he runs Simon Bull Studios. Commissioned to paint the official Concours poster, Bull focused on the decade of the 1960s, which ushered in the golden age of racing. 

Ferrari dominated Le Mans (1960-1965), with the late Phil Hill (who once lived in Monterey County) winning in1961. Then came Ford's four successive wins starting in 1966 (depicted in the “Ford vs. Ferrari” movie), ending the Ferrari domination. Following that streak, the ominous 917 Porsche won back-to-back years in 1970 and 1971 at Daytona and Le Mans (depicted in the 1971 Steve McQueen movie “Le Mans”). 

Bull also produced the 2020 Concours poster “Ford vs. Ferrari” (18x24), which is available online at www.pasaderaconcours.com/2020poster. It is a limited edition with 500 pieces. 

The third annual Concours at Pasadera features prized automobiles in six classes, motorcycles of outstanding vintage and contemporary design, a juried selection of alumni vehicles, rare and unique collections of Hot Wheels, awards designed by Tiffany and Co., and exceptional food, refreshments and hospitality. Premiere sponsors include: RPM, Monterey Touring Vehicles, Laguna Seca Foundation, and JRG Attorneys at Law. 

Set against the backdrop of a luxurious private country club and the Jack Nicklaus-designed Signature golf course, Pasadera provides an unequaled atmosphere of casual elegance. 

Event snapshot

●      Location: The Club at Pasadera, 100 Pasadera Dr, Monterey, CA

●      Time: 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. 

Monterey Motorsports owner Rick Barnett will serve as master of ceremonies. Guests will vote for the People’s Choice Award from the Modern Classic category and returning exhibitors will exhibit a juried selection of Alumni vehicles from the 2019 Concours. 

VIP tickets: Invited guests may obtain admission to the event by visiting pasaderaconcours.com/tickets. 

Children 9 and under are complimentary with a ticket bearing adult. 

Schedule of events

Thursday, Aug. 5, 6-8 p.m. 

Press Party (limited to sponsors, exhibitors and media), Tribute to LeMans, The Decade of Champions. Scenes from movie “Ford vs. Ferrari” and “Le Mans.” Note: Exhibitors are encouraged to arrive at 5 p.m. with their Concours vehicle (parking in the main courtyard). 

Friday, Aug. 6, Concours Day

●       2 p.m. — Ticket Holder entrance/parking through Pasadera Gate, Hwy 68

●       2 p.m. — Event opens to Club Members

●       3 p.m. — Event opens to Ticket Holders

●       6 p.m. — Event concludes

●       6 p.m. — Club 100 dinner party (exhibitors, sponsors and guests), by invitation only 

Additional information 

For information on sponsorship opportunities, contact Rick Barnett atrick@montereymotorsports.com. 

The Club at Pasadera is at 100 Pasadera Drive in Monterey, between Monterey and Salinas off Highway 68. 

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
The Buzz PR, LLC.
Salinas, CA
(831) 747-7455
http://www.montereymotorsports.com