Saturday, July 6, 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, July 5, 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

Thursday, July 4, 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, July 3, 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, July 2, 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, July 1, 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/

National Cleft and Craniofacial Awareness and Prevention Month

Dr. Morwood frequently volunteers on humanitarian missions to operate on children with cleft lips and palates in developing countries of the world.

Monterey, CA, July 02, 2019 - Dr. Morwood frequently volunteers on humanitarian missions to operate on children with cleft lips and palates in developing countries of the world. In the past 30 years he has traveled to treat these children with congenital deformities in many countries such as Peru, Chile, Argentina, Colombia, Venezuela, El Salvador, Bolivia, China, and Vietnam.


Dr. Morwood has spent his time working 14 hour days in countries across the globe, sometimes performing up to 6 surgeries in a day. He helps families of the underprivileged who may need corrective surgery from birth defects, such as cleft lip and cleft palate.

His concern is that “many of these kids have been treated as outcasts” so his mission is to fix them one child at a time.

Here's a short video (https://youtu.be/V3Lv6Oo1HEM) of Dr. Morwood helping kids in Asia.

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

Friday, June 28, 2019

Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa Contest Pinterest Contest

Are you dreaming of a beautiful summer vacation? With days at the beach, fabulous coastal dining and visiting world class destinations like Cannery Row

Monterey, CA, June 28, 2019 - Are you dreaming of a beautiful summer vacation? With days at the beach, fabulous coastal dining and visiting world class destinations like Cannery Row, The Monterey Bay Aquarium and more? Share your Monterey area dream getaway with us for your chance to win a 2 night stay at Hyatt Regency Monterey!


Follow us on Pinterest: pinterest.com/montereyhyatt

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 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!

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

Thursday, June 27, 2019

Salinas YMCA Hosts Meet and Greet for New Executive Director on July 1-2

The Salinas YMCA will hold meet-and-greets for its new Executive Director of Operations, Bill Proulx, on July 1 and 2, at the Salinas YMCA Family Center.

Salinas, CA, June 28, 2019 — The Salinas YMCA will hold meet-and-greets for its new Executive Director of Operations, Bill Proulx, on July 1 and 2, at the Salinas YMCA Family Center.

The first meet-and-greet will be held from noon to 2 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. Monday, July 1, the second from 6-11 a.m. Tuesday, July 2, at the center, 117 Clay St., in Salinas. The July 1 event will feature season watermelon for all attendees, and the July 2, homemade oatmeal.

For more information on the two events, call (831) 758-3811.

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://centralcoastymca.org

Salinas YMCA Men’s Locker Room Getting an Upgrade, But Will Remain Open as Much as Possible. Locker Room Spa Closed

The men’s locker at the Salinas YMCA is getting an upgrade.

Salinas, CA, June 27, 2019 — The men’s locker at the Salinas YMCA is getting an upgrade. The locker room will remain open as much as possible, but the locker room spa has been permanently closed due to dangerous structural and foundation issues.

The upgrade includes new sinks and counter tops, faucets and mirrors and lighting replaced with new LED fixtures. The YMCA is exploring appropriate areas to relocate the spa.

For more information, call 831-758-3811.

Salinas Community YMCA
117 Clay St.
Salinas, CA 93901
831-758-3811
831-758-1241 FAX

www.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

Tuesday, June 25, 2019

For the Love of Monterey Peninsula


Monterey, CA, June 26, 2019 - The Thomas Kinkade galleries has joined in supporting Dance Kids of Monterey County and brings Master Highlighter Carol Van Tol in gallery to embellish newly acquired art.

Saturday July 27th
Thomas Kinkade Carmel Studio in the Garden
Ocean Avenue
Between Delores and Lincoln  | 831-624-3363

Sunday July 28th
Thomas Kinkade Studio Monterey 381 Cannery Row, Suite Q
Monterey Plaza | 831-747-2834

Event Starts: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Reception 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Music | Refreshments | Fun

The Thomas Kinkade galleries has joined in supporting Dance Kids of Monterey County and brings Master Highlighter Carol Van Tol in gallery to embellish newly acquired art. Carol who was trained by Thom in the late 90’s and has been a frequented artist to the Thomas Kinkade galleries for many years.

Your purchase of a Thomas Kinkade, numbered painting will directly support the Dance Kids Nutcracker 2019 Performance featuring the  Monterey Pops! orchestra.

The Dance Kids Nutcracker benefits the youth of Monterey County.  Performed at Sunset Cultural Center, Carmel in December, the magical holiday celebration, Nutcracker; A Monterey Peninsula Tradition, creates family memories lasting a lifetime.

Your generous support, either directly or through your purchase of a Thomas Kinkade, Painter of Light painting, will create scholarship opportunities for those children most in need.

Auditioning is a requirement and your generous support either directly or through your purchase of a Thomas Kinkade, Painter of Light painting will help a child earn a scholarship to be the next sugar plum fairy. 

Dance Kids, Shaping Strong Minds, Strong Bodies and Strong Leaders through the Discipline and Creativity of Dance.

Dance Kids of Monterey County, a 501c(3), founded in 1993, is a non-profit organization that gives children a better understanding of their community and the world through the arts with dance, music and theatre opportunities. Our performing arts programs allow our participants to discover their own voice, to grow in confidence, and to develop empathy and ethical insight-to aspire, accept disappointments, to sometimes fail, and to always keep trying.

Featured Limited Edition
Carmel Sunset On Ocean Avenue
Location: On Ocean Avenue at San Carlos
Publish Date: February 1999


In Gallery ~ Master Highlighter, Carol Van Tol


Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455

Why join the Y? South County YMCA offers a Variety of Programs that Help Enrich our Communities

Since its inception in 1844, the YMCA has strengthened communities all over the world through programs that develop our youth and enrich the lives of families.

Soledad, CA, June 26, 2019 — Since its inception in 1844, the YMCA has strengthened communities all over the world through programs that develop our youth and enrich the lives of families.

The South County YMCA is a charitable organization that follows that path, offering membership and programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body.

Your local Y can help you live healthier through exercise, but also by connecting you with your neighbors and creating opportunities to volunteer in your community. Membership builds a better you, but also a better us!

Why join the Y in South County? Here are more great reasons:

• A wide variety of programs for all ages at sites in Soledad, Gonzales, King City and Greenfield.

• Summer youth camp 2019 with 11 hours of fun each day for up to 11 weeks.

• Wide variety of group exercise classes, youth sports, youth programs, teen programs, child care and camps.

• No contracts, no hidden costs, no yearly maintenance fees and no enrollment fees.

• Financial assistance available so everyone has the opportunity to take advantage of the Y's programs and services.

• Keeping kids and teens safe through after-school programs and YMCA-run sports leagues.

• Personalized support through a Y-trained wellness coach.

• Sports and group exercise classes for adults.

• Adult wellness programs in diabetes prevention, blood pressure self-monitoring and more.

South County YMCA’s office is at 560 Walker Drive, Soledad. For more information, call 831-678-1239, visit our Facebook page or online at www.centralcoastymca.org.

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

Entertainment Lineup at 2019 Monterey County Fair Features Rising Country Star Mitchell Tenpenny, Tickets On Sale Online Now

Rising country music star Mitchell Tenpenny tops the entertainment lineup at the 2019 Monterey County Fair, Aug. 29-Sept. 2, 2019, with advance tickets on sale online now.

Monterey, CA, June 25, 2019 — Rising country music star Mitchell Tenpenny tops the entertainment lineup at the 2019 Monterey County Fair, Aug. 29-Sept. 2, 2019, with advance tickets on sale online now.

Country star Tenpenny, whose 2018 hit “Drunk Me” hit #2 on the U.S. country charts, will perform Thursday, Aug. 29 on the Garden Stage, and tops the list of country artists performing at the fair. Acts include a Carrie Underwood Tribute (Saturday, Aug. 31) and Garth Guy (Saturday, Aug. 31), a tribute to Garth Brooks. Journey Revisited (Friday, Aug. 30), a tribute to the great Bay Area band Journey, will also perform during the fair.

Tenpenny’s follow-up single, “Alcohol You Later,” released on Riser House/Columbia Nashville, also quickly climbed the country charts. Nashville resident Tenpenny released his debut album, “Black Crow,” in 2015, and his second album and full-length major label debut album “Telling All My Secrets” in 2018.

Established in 2011, Journey Revisited is an ensemble of top-tier professionals with the drive to deliver a faithful musical experience. Journey Revisited is dedicated to bringing the studio recordings of Journey to life on stage.

Two lead vocalists, Frank House and Kevin Jachetta, bring the classic Steve Perry- Gregg Rolie sound with their authentic re-creation of Journey’s distinctive vocals. Journey Revisited is on point in recreating that classic Journey sound, you won’t find a tighter sounding band around.

Dean Simmonds began his career as a Garth Brooks tribute artist in 1994. In 1996, producer John Stuart discovered and hired him to perform in the world famous “Legends in Concert” in Las Vegas, Myrtle Beach, Atlantic City, and several tours and one-night performances throughout the USA and Canada. Simmonds is still the only “Garth” on the Legends’ roster and still performs in many of the Legends shows.

Simmonds has also produced his own full-length show based on Garth’s live concerts. In 2014, Dean’s “Garth Guy” show was featured on the national television show, “World’s Greatest Tribute Bands” on Mark Cuban’s network, AXS TV.

The Carrie Underwood Tribute features country singer Kaylee Starr performing country superstar Underwood’s many hit songs.

All live music is free with fair admission. A full schedule of entertainment will be released this summer.

Advance tickets are available online at: https://tickets.montereycountyfair.com/tickets.

Ticket packages available online include:

>2019 Advanced Carnival Fun Pack, good Aug. 29 – Sept. 2, 2019. This ticket is valid for one ride-all-day carnival wristband and is redeemable at Carnival Customer Service. Does not include fair admission. Wristband, $25

>2019 Advanced Fair Admission, good Aug. 29 – Sept. 2, 2019. Valid for one entry into the Fair. Adult, $9; Child, $5; Senior, $9.

>2019 Advanced Rodeo Performance, Aug. 30 – Sept. 1, 2019.

Valid for one rodeo performance on either Friday, Saturday or Sunday. Fair admission is not included. General admission, $5.

>2019 Advanced Sunday Rodeo Family Fun Pack, good for Sept. 1, 2019. Valid for two adult fair admissions, two child fair admissions and four entries into one Sunday Rodeo performance (3:30 p.m. or 6:00 p.m.). General admission, $35.

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

Dance Student From Carmel Academy of Performing Arts Accepts Apprenticeship at Prestigious Spanish Ballet Company

A student of the Carmel Academy of Performing Arts, Alexandra Huffman (Wen Wen), has been accepted for a ballet apprenticeship with the prestigious Ballet de Catalunya in Barcelona, Spain.

Carmel, CA, June 25, 2019 — A student of the Carmel Academy of Performing Arts, Alexandra Huffman (Wen Wen), has been accepted for a ballet apprenticeship with the prestigious Ballet de Catalunya in Barcelona, Spain.


With two full scholarships awarded, Wen Wen leaves the Monterey Peninsula in late June for La Scala, Milan and IB Stage, Barcelona, continuing her passion and study before entering the trainee position in Barcelona and company rehearsals in August.

“I am looking forward to my apprenticeship with Ballet de Catalunya as it gives me the opportunity to dance in what I consider the center of dance, Europe, yet I know CAPA will always be here and my special dance home,” Huffman told Carol Richmond, her first teacher, when she was home in Monterey this week and back at CAPA for the ballet intensive with her teacher Philip Pegler and Twyla Tharp dancer Matthew Dibble.

Huffman, who was adopted in China by Andra Aeslyn and Al Huffman of Carmel, began dance lessons at CAPA when she was age 3. Her summers have been filled with intensive ballet programs; four years with Paris Opera Ballet, Princess Grace Academy, San Francisco Ballet School and Prague Masterclasses. She recently graduated after two years at the year-round program in Washington D.C., Kirov Academy of Ballet.

The Huffmans made valiant attempts to adopt a daughter for six long years. Those years were spent applying for adoptions in Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Cambodia and various other countries, only to be turned away with governmental twists and turns, a failed match and many promises heartbreakingly crushed.

Andra Huffman’s sister had adopted a child from China, so with a final monumental push to realize their dream, they went to meet their new daughter. The second morning the 17-month-old toddler awakened in the United States, Andra was called Momma, and the new family never looked back.

“We will watch in awe of Wen Wen’s dedication to the performing arts, welcome her home at every opportunity and follow her progress and performances,” said Richmond, founder and director of CAPA.

About BNC — The Catalunya Ballet
The Catalunya Ballet was created with the objective of filling a void that has existed for decades in Catalunya. The company will be able to represent and identify Catalunya as a production center of dance with its own personality and capability to present the greatest dance classics of all time while also bringing new and avant-guard works to the stage.

With the constitution of this new company, based on classical dance as its axis and precursor of any other type of modality, especially neoclassical and contemporary dance, young talented dancers from our country finally have the opportunity to be part of a national ballet company rather than join the continuous flight of Catalan and Spanish dancers to international companies.

The BNC will have the presence of internationally renowned dancers, teachers and choreographers with an original artistic program of classical, neoclassical and contemporary repertoire. The company will present works by internationally recognized choreographers as well as some of the greatest Catalan choreographers in the history of dance.

The BNC is the resident company at the Cultural Center of Terrassa (CCT, which is recognized as the theater with the most extensive dance program in Catalunya. Opening in 1980, the CCT is a center that offers a diverse program of activities directed at all types of audiences.

http://catalunyaballet.com/

Carmel Academy of Performing Arts
Mission Street & Eighth Avenue
Carmel, CA 93923
(831) 624-3729
www.carmelacademyofperformingarts.com

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

Friday, June 21, 2019

Do You Have Talent? Local Performers Sought for 83rd Annual Monterey County Fair, Aug. 29-Sept. 2, 2019

Attention Monterey County! Show off your talents! Local performers and those who wish to showcase their talents for free are being sought to appear on the Community Stage at the 83rd Annual Monterey County Fair, which will be held Aug. 29-Sept. 2, 2019.

Monterey, CA, June 21, 2019 — Attention Monterey County! Show off your talents! Local performers and those who wish to showcase their talents for free are being sought to appear on the Community Stage at the 83rd Annual Monterey County Fair, which will be held Aug. 29-Sept. 2, 2019.


Are you a dancer, musician, singer, kickboxer, gymnast or other type of performer? Come on out and dazzle Monterey County at the upcoming Monterey County Fair! This year's theme is “High Tides and Carnival Rides.”

Interested individuals and organizations are invited to apply online no later than Friday, June 28, 2019, at www.montereycountyfair.com. There you will find a “Community Act Performance Request Form” to fill out with your pertinent data, type of group, equipment needed, when you would like to perform, etc.

The schedule of performances is determined on a first-come, first-served basis with the deadline for receiving request forms by either fax, email or postal mail no later than June 28. The fair cannot guarantee the times requested, but will make every effort to fill your request.

The Monterey County Fair & Event Center is a premier event center set on 22 oak-studded acres. It is home of the annual Monterey County Fair, host to many major public and private events on the Central Coast, and the site of the Monterey Bay Race Place, a satellite wagering facility.

The Monterey County Fair is the 7th District Agricultural Association of the State of California. For more information, call (831) 372-5863 or check out the website, www.montereycountyfair.com.

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

Wednesday, June 19, 2019

For upcoming “Negroni Week” Yeast of Eden will Host a Negroni Competition Featuring Local Bartenders

On June 27th, Yeast of Eden will host a Negroni Competition for Imbibe Magazine’s Negroni Week, June 24th to June 30th.

Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA, June 19, 2019 - On June 27th, Yeast of Eden will host a Negroni Competition for Imbibe Magazine’s Negroni Week, June 24th to June 30th. A portion of the ticket sales will be donated to the Surfrider Foundation as part of the Negroni Week charitable initiative.

The friendly competition will be sponsored by Campari, and feature 5 local bartenders each mixing two cocktails, one of which will be their variation on the classic. The ticketed event will take place on the Yeast of Eden patio from 6 - 9 pm, and $20 gets you entry, tastings of all competitors’ negroni cocktails and passed appetizers.


Tickets can be purchased on Eventbrite. Here is the link to imbed:

Negroni Week competition at Yeast Of Eden (Here is the browser link:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/negroni-week-competition-at-yeast-of-eden-tickets-6340740726
)

For the competitors/judges:
Negroni Competition Sponsored by Campari and Imbibe Magazine’s Negroni Week

When: Thursday, June 27th

Where: Yeast Of Eden, Carmel Plaza, Carmel-By-The-Sea Time: 6PM – 9PM
Prizes: Industry Swag, Refuge Passes, Alvarado Street Beer, Fernet Branca Bike, more to be announced the day of competition

Emcee: Aaron Shields

Judges: Kelly Waters (Campari USA), Chef Chris Vacca (Pacific’s Edge at Highlands Inn), Jane Hurley (83 Proof, San Francisco)

Competitors: Joshua Perry (Cultura, Nick & Nora), Alice South (Hula’s Island Grill), Bijan Emadi (Jennini Kitchen + Wine Bar), Kelly Kuhn (Alvarado Street Brewery), Cesar Osuna (Montrio Bistro)

Tickets: $20 which includes light appetizers on the patio plus tastes of all the cocktails involved.

Competition:

1st Round: Original cocktail using Campari or Aperol. No restrictions on style or presentation. Judgement weighted on the following criteria: Originality (weighted 25%), Balance/Overall Flavor (25%), Presentation (25%), Technique (20%), Best/Funniest/Most Clever Cocktail Name (5%). Only one cocktail per competitor needs to be produced for the judges. Approximately sixty 1oz samples will need to be provided for the spectators.

2nd Round: Best Negroni or Negroni Variant based on the following criteria: Originality (weighted 25%), Balance/Overall Flavor (25%), Technique (20%), Presentation (15%), Use of Campari brands (10%), Use of traditional Negroni ingredients (5%). Only one cocktail per competitor needs to be produced for the judges. Approximately sixty 1oz samples will need to be provided for the spectators.

In case of a 1st place tie in either round, a speed round of two cocktails will be declared. All competitors involved in the tie breaker will be given two classic cocktails and judged based on time and quality of the cocktails. These cocktails will only need to be made for the judges and only one of each will need to be produced by each competitor. Any additional glassware or ingredients for the tie-breaker will be provided by Yeast Of Eden.

A winner for each round will be awarded as well as an Overall Champion for the combination of the scores from each round. Prizes will be awarded to each of the individual round winners with the grand prize going to the Overall Champion.

General Rules:

• Campari will provide any ingredients that are part of the Campari portfolio. See below for a full list of approximately 50 applicable brands. It is highly encouraged to use Campari products as this will help keep your costs down and a small portion of the judges weighting is based on the use of Campari brands. www.campariamerica.com

• Additional alcoholic ingredients will be provided by Yeast Of Eden, up to $50 (wholesale) per competitor as long as drink recipes are submitted by the submission deadline.

• Individually infused spirits, individually made bitters, tinctures, syrups and any other modifiers not available to be purchased as-is from a vendor or distributor must be provided by the competitor.

• Common fruit, herbs and vegetables for garnishes and juices will be provided by Yeast Of Eden. This includes but is not limited to oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, mint, black cherries, olives, etc. If other fruit, herbs and vegetable components are needed and readily available, the restaurant will review the competitors needs and will let the competitor know if it is possible to procure these items for the individual. If it is not within reason to provide said products, it will be the responsibility of the competitor to supply them themselves.

• Basic glassware will be provided for the judges cocktails. This includes: 7oz rocks buckets, 12oz rocks buckets, collins glasses, coupes, Nick & Noras, pint glasses and white and red wine glasses. Any other glassware will need to be provided by the competitor for the judges cocktails. Small taster glasses for the spectators will be provided by Yeast Of Eden.

• Basic ice for shaking and chilling will be provided by Yeast Of Eden. Shaved, crushed or any specialized ice will need to be provided by the competitor. A small manual ice crusher can be provided by the restaurant for the competitors.

• Competitors should bring their own shakers, beakers, spoons, strainers, etc. Ice scoops, mats and towels will be provided by Yeast Of Eden.

• The competitors will have 30 minutes before the competition begins to prep their station and ingredients/garnishes, if needed.

• Cocktail recipes with exact proportions stated in oz and/or ml should be submitted to Adam Ono at adam@yoebeer.com by 6/21 so that any additional products may be obtained in time for the competition.

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

Monday, June 17, 2019

Natividad Farmers’ Market on July 10 Features Plant-Based Chef Sherrie Ransom

The Everyone’s Harvest Market held Wednesdays from 11:00 am to 3:30.p.m. Cooking Demonstration Starts at Noon.

Salinas, CA, June 18, 2019 — Chef Sherrie Ransom of Green Being Cuisine is the featured chef at Natividad’s weekly Farmers’ Market on Wednesday, July 10.

Ransom’s cooking demonstration at noon features a no-sugar-added Fruit and Chia Pudding Parfait (see recipe below).

The California Certified Farmers' Market, run by Everyone’s Harvest, is held every Wednesday from May 15 through October. The market is open from 11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. outside of Building 200, Outpatient Services, located at 1441 Constitution Blvd.


“We are excited to have Chef Sherrie join us again on July 10 to help us continue to promote wellness and healthy eating,” said Natividad Assistant Administrator Andrea Rosenberg. “Sherrie is one of the top chefs in Monterey County when it comes to plant-based dishes and healthy eating, so it’s a great opportunity for the community to learn from her.”

Natividad’s Farmers’ Market features fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables, many of which are certified organic. The market also features a wide selection of food, coffee, flowers, live plants, and unique gifts and services from small-scale family farmers and local independent businesses. Shoppers support local California growers and entrepreneurs in the Salinas community, Rosenberg said.

Vendors participating this year include Stackhouse Brothers, Rodriguez Ranch, Golden Flowers, Gallardo’s Organics, Mai Thai Cuisine, Mix of Flavors, Chava’s Corn, Fruitas Fresca Barajas, Perfect Crumb, The Bearded Bean, Castellano Organic Farm, Hummus Heaven, and Luke’s Mobile Massage.

The Farmers’ Market 2019 lineup also features regular cooking demos and tastings from local chefs, Everyone's Harvest team members and hospital staff members. Attendees of these demos enjoy a sample of the featured recipe and take home a recipe card. The cooking demonstration dates and chefs are posted at Everyone's Harvest's webpage at everyonesharvest.org.

Ransom is a plant-based chef in Monterey County, providing personal chef services, classes, recipe development and consultation.

“I’m very particular about what I eat and know it can be a challenge to find the time and resources to prepare nutritious meals, especially when traveling,” she said. “I’m delighted to be able to provide fresh options for locals and visitors to the Monterey area.”

Ransom earned her degree in biology and went on to complete certification as a Gourmet Raw Food Chef, Culinary Instructor and Nutrition Educator. She was an Instructor for Living Light Culinary Institute before founding Green Being Cuisine. Her dishes and classes highlight fresh, whole foods with a playful appreciation of flavor and texture.

“I’m grateful to live on the central coast. Every week my local farmers offer a wide variety of fresh, organic produce,” she said. “I strive to feature these beautiful ingredients in all their glory as well as share how simple and delicious healthy foods can be.”

No-Sugar-Added Fruit and Chia Pudding Parfait

By Chef Sherrie Ransom, Owner and Executive Chef of Green Being Cuisine

Ingredients:

1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped

1 cup fresh blueberries

6 tablespoons chia seeds

2 cups coconut milk (or other liquid)

1 teaspoon vanilla (optional)

Seeds or nuts (optional)

Whipped Topping:

½ cup coconut cream

2 tablespoons cashew cream

1 tablespoon honey (optional)

1 tablespoon vanilla

2 teaspoons psyllium powder

Directions:

For whipped topping, blend all ingredients until smooth, adding psyllium last. Chill 30 minutes or more.
In a small bowl, blend 1/2 cup strawberries with 1/2 cup coconut milk until smooth. Stir in 2 tablespoons chia seeds.
In a small bowl, blend 1/2 cup blueberries with 1/2 cup coconut milk until smooth. Stir in 2 tablespoons chia seeds.
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup coconut milk with vanilla. Stir in 4 tablespoons chia seeds. Set aside.
Allow all three mixtures to thicken for 30 minutes or more, or in the fridge overnight.
In individual parfait glasses or mason jars, begin to build your parfait in layers, starting with the strawberry chia, then coconut chia, then blueberry chia, and finally another layer of coconut chia. Top with remaining fruit and a dollop of the whipped cream topping. Optional: sprinkle with nuts or seeds.

Variations:

Use any seasonal fruit.
Layer fresh fruit between the chia layers.
Create a chocolate layer by blending until smooth: 1 cup coconut milk, 1/2 blended avocado, 1 teaspoon vanilla, 2 tablespoons cacao powder, 1 to 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup. Stir in 2 tablespoons chia seeds. Chill 30 minutes or more.

Tips:

If adding blended fruit (including avocado) to the chia, use less chia or more liquid. Fruit has natural pectin and will act as a thickener.
Prepare in serving size dishes or jars the night before. The next day: grab and go.
The chia pudding can be prepared with any liquid. Try it with juices, teas, nut or seed milks, water.
Chia seeds absorb 10 -12x their volume of liquid. If you garnish a dish with dry seeds, drink lots of water to avoid dehydration. Soaked seeds can offer extra hydration because of the liquid they hold.
Soaked chia seeds can be used replace eggs in a recipe; 1/2 tablespoon soaked seeds per egg.
Ground chia seeds can be used as a flour and binder in a recipe.

Media Contact:
Marci Bracco, Chatterbox PR
marci@chatterboxpublicrelations.com, 831-747-7455

About Natividad
Natividad is an acute care hospital and Trauma Center providing high-quality health care to everyone in Monterey County, regardless of ability to pay. Located in Salinas, Calif., Natividad is a public health care system offering a wide range of inpatient, outpatient, emergency, diagnostic and specialty medical care. Founded in 1886, the 172-bed medical center has more than 10,000 admissions and 52,000 emergency visits annually. Home to the area’s only Level II Trauma Center, the hospital’s specialized personnel, equipment and services provide a vital local community service that saves lives and keeps patients close to home. Natividad’s Baby-Friendly® facility delivered more than 2,200 babies last year and is affiliated with UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals. It also operates an accredited Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, giving the tiniest and most fragile babies — some as small as one pound — the best chance for a healthy start. Through its UCSF-accredited Family Medicine Residency Training Program, Natividad is the only teaching hospital on the Central Coast. For more information, please call (831) 755-4111 or visit www.natividad.com.  

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

Sunday, June 16, 2019

Monterey County Fair & Event Center May Be the Perfect Location for Quinceañeras New Event Options Include Bringing Your Own Food or Caterer and Hosted Keg Prices Have Been Lowered

Don’t Forget to Refer a Friend to for an Event Rental and Receive a $50 Visa Gift Card and 10% Off Your Referral!

Monterey, CA, June 17, 2019 — Finding and booking a venue for a Quinceañera, the celebration of a girl's 15th birthday, has never been easier thanks to the Monterey County Fair & Event Center, which can make this special day as fun and easy as possible.

Whether it is a small private affair or a large grand event, the event center offers magnificent landscapes, both indoor and outdoor venues, lowered prices and flexible terms, and a variety of amenities, making it the perfect location for your event.

For example, hosted keg prices have been lowered to $325 domestic and $375 imported, which is almost $100 lower than previously. Also, clients do not have to use a preferred caterer and can bring their own food and/or utilize their own caterer.

Packages can include tables and chairs, power pedestal, insurance, event staffing, janitorial services, and security services for events up to 400 guests. For various room rental packages, go to https://montereycountyfair.com/pdf/events/room_packages_2019.pdf.

Partnering with the Butterfly Boutique (http://www.butterflyboutique11.com/index.html) the team at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center is committed to helping you create the most special day of your life by bringing to reality your vision and dreams.

And now, when you refer a friend to an event, you will receive a $50 Visa Gift Card once the contract is signed and your referral will receive 10% off as well.

The event center’s Quinceañera expert, Nicolette Aldrete, can help you coordinate the details. Call her at 831-372-5863, ext. 304.

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

Thursday, June 13, 2019

World’s Top Sand-Sculpting Company to Create Giant Sand Sculpture for 2019 Monterey County Fair, Aug. 29-Sept. 2

The world’s foremost sand-sculpting company, Sandscapes, will create a giant sand sculpture reflecting the theme of this year’s Monterey County Fair, Aug. 29-Sept. 2, 2019.

Monterey, CA, June 14, 2019 — The world’s foremost sand-sculpting company, Sandcapes, will create a giant sand sculpture reflecting the theme of this year’s Monterey County Fair, Aug. 29-Sept. 2, 2019.

The sand sculpture will feature sea otters on a roller coaster, reflecting the fair’s theme, “High Tides and Carnival Rides.”

Sandcapes emerged in the mid-’80s from the competitive sand sculpture scene on the beaches of Southern California. Originally performing at corporate events and summer beach festivals, demand soon exploded as Sandscapes' sculptors formed the leading edge as the world's first full-time professional sand sculptors.

In addition to numerous national, international, and regional sand sculpture titles, Sandcapes holds 12 separate World Sand Sculpting Championships titles. Averaging 40 sculptures annually, their sculptors have created over 1,000 sculptures at major venues around the world.

For more information on Sandscapes, go to http://www.sandscapes.com/.

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.

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.sandscapes.com/