Twisted Roots Announces Monthly Happy Hour First Thursday of Every Month It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Wine O'Clock

Let's be real: There are some weeks when your work schedule can be rough stuff.

Carmel Valley, CA, March 17, 2020 - Let's be real: There are some weeks when your work schedule can be rough stuff. Maybe you're in back-to-back meetings all day long, or you have an important presentation you're working on after hours. The only thing that's getting you through it all is the glorious happy hour at the end of the tunnel.

It may just be you and your work wife heading to Twisted Roots Tasting Room to catch up, or you've gathered the whole team to check out the new First Thursday Happy Hour at Twisted Roots. Either way, you know there are two things on the agenda: Ordering up some amazing wines and enjoy wood fired pizza, and don’t forget getting a squad pic of everyone together. Now's the time to kick back and relax. Cheers!

Join Twisted Roots on the first Thursday of every month for Happy Hour! We will be featuring wine specials, Fire on Wheels Pizza and more.

We are proud to announce we will have live music for our Happy Hour from 5:00pm-7:00pm Thursday, March 2nd and Game Night on Thursday, April 2nd from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Happy Hours are free events—don’t miss out. Join us at Twisted Roots and get your happy on!

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
https://www.twistedrootsvineyard.com/events-1/happy-hour-4

Artichoke Festival (May 30-31) continues its Pursuit of Fun, expanding wild and wacky 5K Beach Run, adding two-day, 7-on-7 soccer tournament

Pamplona, Spain may be famous for its annual running of the bulls, but nothing quite compares to the Artichoke Festival’s running of the human vegetables.

Monterey, CA, March 13, 2020 — Pamplona, Spain may be famous for its annual running of the bulls, but nothing quite compares to the Artichoke Festival’s running of the human vegetables.

The festival’s second annual 5K Beach Run takes place May 2 along the sandy, windswept Del Monte Beach in Monterey. The wild and wacky fun run — with participants encouraged to dress as their favorite veggies — is a prelude to the two-day festival to be held this year on May 30-31 at the Monterey County Fairgrounds & Event Center in Monterey.

Started in 1959 in Castroville (the Artichoke Capital of the World), the Artichoke Festival has expanded its scope over the years to include musical entertainment, field tours, art competitions, chef demos, a Kids Zone and more. In addition to the Fun Run, the festival has added the first-ever Artichoke Cup Soccer Tournament to be held on both days of the festival.

Twelve corporate teams of 10 adults each will compete in a two-day, 7-on-7 tournament to win the first-ever Artichoke Cup. A portion of proceeds will benefit the nonprofit Monterey Surf Soccer Club. Admission is free to all festival admission ticket holders The winning team will be announced on Sunday afternoon, May 31.

Last year’s inaugural Fun Run proved so popular that the festival has expanded it for 2020. Runners and walkers alike are invited for fun, exercise and goodies on the beach, starting at the Monterey Tides Hotel, 2600 Sand Dunes Dr., Monterey.

Those dressed as their favorite vegetable have a chance to win a free ticket package to the festival. All registered Fun Run participants receive an Artichoke Festival 5K Beach Run T-shirt, a free artichoke in their goodie bag, one free entry ticket to the festival, and restaurant discounts at Monterey Tides, the beautiful boutique hotel on the sands of Monterey Bay.

What’s more, it all benefits charitable causes across Monterey County.

Online registration continues until April 29 at www.active.com. Race-day registration will start at 8 a.m., on Saturday, May 2, in the Bay View Room at the Monterey Tides. The race begins at 10 a.m. on the beach. Course closes at 12:30 p.m.

Registration fees are $40 per individual through April 1 ($45 until April 29). Kids are $10 through April 1 ($15 until April 20), with a T-shirt included. There are military and senior discounts (with ID).

High Resolution Photos and Link To the Run

5k
https://adobe.ly/32faCAv

Festival
https://adobe.ly/2Y9liOy

For more information, visit www.artichokefestival.org.

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

Yeast of Eden Welcomes their New Executive Chef Steven Patlan

Our new chef Steven Patlan will be rolling out his new menu on March 1st and we would like to introduce him to the community! Additional food photos available.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA, March 13, 2020 - Yeast of Eden welcomes their new Executive Chef Steven Patlan, kicking off 2020 with an exciting new menu and specials rolling out March 1st. At age 10 on a kitchen stool next to his mother, Steven discovered that he was always going to cook, and has gained a wealth of culinary knowledge and experience since then. He attended culinary school at the Institute of Technology in Clovis before moving to Las Vegas, sharpening his skills under Alex Strata at Marche Bacchus, and joining the banquet team at Silverton Casino preparing specialty dinners on a private yacht. Following Las Vegas, Steven returned to California as sous chef at Solaire Restaurant in the Hotel Paradox alongside Executive Chef, Ross McKee. In 2012, the Monterey Peninsula beckoned him home to The Inn at Spanish Bay with Executive Chef Todd Fischer, Quail Lodge & Golf Club, the Sardine Factory, Ventana Inn Big Sur, and recently as the Executive Chef at Wild Fish in Pacific Grove.

Steven’s goal at Yeast of Eden is to curate a locally sourced menu from a collection of flavors, spices, and fresh ingredients that inspire him. He is intrigued by global culinary destinations that utilize unique ingredients, flavors, and spices including Jerusalem, Turkey, Morocco, and Cambodia. Steven has a passion for pickling and fermenting which will be frequently incorporated into his dishes. He also plans to work closely with head brewer Andrew Rose to synchronize the beer and food offerings by creating dishes that both compliment and utilize beer as an ingredient in their preparation. Steven wants to establish close relationships and source ingredients from local farmers and fishermen, bringing more seafood and fresh, local produce onto the menu. He is an advocate of locally sourced, aquarium approved, and sustainably farmed products and enjoys participating in community events like Meals on Wheels, Rancho Cielo, and the Prevedelli Farm Dinner in Watsonville each September.

In addition to the new menu rolling out on March 1st, Chef Steven will be frequently offering locally sourced specials in our dining room, bar, and dog-friendly courtyard terrace at Carmel Plaza in downtown Carmel. Hours are 11:30am-9:00pm Sunday through Thursday and 11:30am-10:00pm on Friday and Saturdays.

Contact:
Wendy Walker
Yeast of Eden
General Manager
831.293.8621
Mission St & Ocean Avenue, Suite 112 Carmel Plaza
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93921

Descriptions for dish pictured:

Five Spiced Smoked Duck Breast
forbidden black rice with coconut milk | cauliflower | watercress | fermented cabbage with crispy chili relish | hot pepper chili oil

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

Mission Days Event to be Held at Mission San Antonio on April 4, 2020

Come to the pristine Valley of the Oaks and enjoy a step backward in time to the mission era.

San Antonio, CA, March 10, 2020 - Come to the pristine Valley of the Oaks and enjoy a step backward in time to the mission era. Attend Mission San Antonio’s annual Mission Days event on Saturday April 4, 2020, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Parking and Admission is $10/car. Authentic mission era food will be offered for $10/plate with water and soft drinks also available.

There will be historical re-enactors in costume portraying soldiers, artisans, a vaquero on horseback, musicians and dancers. Mission crafts and activities will be demonstrated, including weaving, blacksmithing, candle making, tortilla making, and much more. Members of Los Arribeños de San Francisco will be performing historical Californio music and dance from the Mission period. Artists will be present to display and offer for sale their original artwork.

Mission San Antonio de Padua, the third oldest Spanish mission in California, was founded by Junipero Serra in 1771. The Mission is a state historical landmark and is on the national register of historic places. The Mission remains an active Catholic parish and retreat center. Mission San Antonio is surrounded by Fort Hunter Liggett, and is conveniently reached by publicly accessible roads. The Mission is located off Jolon Road, at 1 Mission Road, Jolon, CA 93928. For more information visit our website at www.missionsanantonio.net or call 831-385-4478 ext.17.

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

On March 25, Goodwill Central Coast will team up with The ALS Association Golden West Chapter to raise Money, Awareness

On Wednesday, March 25, every Goodwill Central Coast store location will donate and match (up to $1,000 total) all round-up dollar proceeds.

Agoura Hills, CA, March 10, 2020 - Although the past few years have seen exciting research advancements, there is still no cure for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), more commonly known as Lou Gerhig’s Disease, a progressive neurodegenerative illness that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord.

To help further this important cause, Goodwill Central Coast will team up with The ALS Association Golden West Chapter to raise both funds and awareness.

On Wednesday, March 25, every Goodwill Central Coast store location will donate and match (up to $1,000 total) all round-up dollar proceeds. Money raised will benefit the Golden West Chapter's Walk to Defeat ALS, with upcoming local events on Saturday, April 4 in San Luis Obispo and Saturday, October 3 in Monterey. These annual community outreach events are critical awareness and fundraising components that fuel the Chapter’s efforts in research, care services, and public policy initiatives to benefit the ALS community of the Central Coast.

On Wednesday, March 25, The ALS Association Golden West Chapter will have representatives at the Capitola, Salinas and San Luis Obispo Higuera locations from 5-7 p.m. For more information about ALS or how you can get involved, visit www.alsagoldenwest.org, or email info@alsagoldenwest.org. You can also sign up or donate to the Walk to Defeat ALS at walks.alsagoldenwest.org.

About Goodwill Central Coast
Goodwill Central Coast, a private 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, began in 1928 in the city of Santa Cruz and today has expanded into three counties: Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Luis Obispo. Goodwill Central Coast now employs more than 600 people, including employment training professionals, sales personnel, donation center attendants, warehouse and distribution workers, and administrators. Its programs strengthen communities by improving job growth, the lives of individuals and families, and the health of our environment. Each year Goodwill assists more than 9,000 job seekers get back to work and reclaim financial and personal independence. Goodwill provides a positive learning environment that creates brighter futures through connecting people to meaningful work.

About The ALS Association Golden West Chapter
The mission of The ALS Association is to discover treatments and cures for ALS, and to serve, advocate for, and empower people affected by ALS to live their lives to the fullest. Our vision is to create a world without ALS. The Golden West Chapter serves people with ALS and their families in 31 counties throughout California and in the state of Hawaii. Everything we do advances the search for effective treatments and cures for ALS. For more information about ALS and The ALS Association Golden West Chapter, please visit our website at www.alsagoldenwest.org or email us at info@alsagoldenwest.org. You can also find us across social media channels at @alsagoldenwest.

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

VNA Accredited for its Home Care, Hospice Services and Certified for Palliative Care by National Standards-Setting Organization

VNA has received The Gold Seal of Approval® accreditation for home care and hospice services

Monterey, CA, March 09, 2020 — VNA has received The Gold Seal of Approval® accreditation for home care and hospice services as well as certification for palliative care by the independent, nonprofit Joint Commission by demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards..

CCVNA President and CEO Dwight Wilson made the announcement after receiving the Gold Seal of Approval accreditation and certification letters from Joint Commission Chief Operating Officer Mark G. Pelletier.

The Joint Commission, the oldest and largest standards-setting and accrediting body in health care, accredits and certifies more than 22,000 organizations and programs in the United States.

“The Joint Commission accreditation and certification means our organization complies with the highest national standards for safety and quality of care and is committed to continually improving patient care,” said Wilson. “The success of the VNA programs are a result of the outstanding care everyone within the agency makes happen every day.”

For more information, please visit https://ccvna.com/ or The Joint Commission website.

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

VNA Names Salinas Resident Mary Ann Franscioni to New Position of Associate Director of Wellness Services

The Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) & Hospice has announced the appointment of Mary Ann Franscioni as Associate Director of Wellness Services.

Monterey, CA, March 05, 2020 — The Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) & Hospice has announced the appointment of Mary Ann Franscioni as Associate Director of Wellness Services.

Franscioni has worked for VNA as a part-time Workplace Wellness Specialist since 2017. She was recruited for the new position by Andrea Zoodsma, Director of VNA Community Services. Franscioni describes her job in terms of community awareness: “I will be getting the word out about VNA programs and why they matter. Her intent is “to expand the program with existing clients and bring wellness to new corporate clients.”

Franscioni said she’s excited about the challenges ahead, and the opportunity to focus on outreach to the community with existing programs and introduction of new programs such as Kitchen Talks, in which she visits organizations to teach healthy cooking and nutrition. CPR certification classes are also a new addition to the list of wellness services VNA brings to the community. Supporting the work of The Blue Zone Project is an exciting prospect for the coming year.

“I’m motivated differently now,” she said, reflecting on her 25-year career as a teacher in the Washington Union School District. She said her interest in health and nutrition began with elementary school students and now has “grown and evolved” to include adults, especially the agricultural workforce, and their families. “It’s a different challenge now.”

Franscioni holds a BA from The Catholic University of America, an MA in Curriculum Development from Chapman University and, most recently, an MS in Nutrition from Maryland University of Integrative Health. Originally from New York City, she has been a Monterey County resident since she moved to California in 1987.

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

VNA Community Services brings wellness to our community. Well known as the community immunizers; experienced, professional registered nurses provide on- site flu and vaccine services.

As the only travel health clinic, VNA provides comprehensive consultation and immunizations for international travelers. Health screenings and education are offered to corporate business, in the field or in the board room. Nurses provide services to local schools to meet state-mandated screenings, vaccines and staff education.

VNA provides intermittent care, covered primarily by insurance, through the expert skills of our trained and certified clinicians, to assist patients, families, and caregivers in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes. The home health division offers key specialty program, including cardiac, connections, diabetic, orthopedic, and palliative care. These individual programs have advanced practice clinicians and program expertise.

VNA Hospice is specialized type of care for those facing a life-limiting illness, their families and their caregiver. The care involves a team-oriented approach to expert medical care, pain management, and emotional and spiritual support expressly tailored to the patient’s needs and wishes. A key component to the team is VNA Volunteers who give their time to improve the lives of others. For the community, grief and loss support are offered to individuals or groups.

VNA & Hospice
PO Box 2480
Monterey, CA 93942-2480
Phone:831-372-6668
Fax: 831-648-7726
Email: vnainfo@ccvna.com
https://ccvna.com/

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

Gil Basketball Academy Celebrates the Women of Basketball Meet Gabby Godinez

Gabriela “Gabby” Godinez, 18, has been playing basketball since she was 10 years old, and would do so after graduating high school this summer if they were more opportunities afforded her.

Salinas, CA, March 04, 2020 - A senior at Alisal High School, she has been playing organized basketball since the eighth grade and currently plays both basketball and tennis at Alisal, as well as after-school basketball at the Gil Basketball Academy run by Jose Gil, who is also Alisal’s athletic director.

Gabby hopes to attend Sacramento State in the fall, but doesn’t expect to play basketball for the college. At 5-foot-71/2 inches, Gabby plays either strong forward or center and has a strong defensive game.

She says playing basketball has taught her discipline, teamwork, communication, leadership, and, now that she’s older, becoming a role model and helping the younger girls.

“I like helping out with kids, help them become better,” she says. “I even asked my coach how I could become an assistant coach.”

She says she cried when Alisal’s regular season ended because she knew that would most likely be one of the last times she would play with her teammates.

“I really liked interacting with my teammates, it’s like a family. We’ve been together for three years.”

In the future, while she may not play as much basketball as she has during her school years, she hopes she may still be involved in the sport as a coach, to teach and encourage younger girl players.

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

Gil Basketball Academy Celebrates the Women of Basketball Meet Mikaela Arista

In addition to her school work, basketball is everything for 17-year-old Mikaela Arista.

Salinas, CA, March 03, 2020 - It’s everything to me, it’s my passion in my life,” says the Alisal High School junior. “It’s been a huge support system for me and has helped me in all aspects of my life.”

Mikael started playing basketball when she was only 5 years old, encouraged by her basketball-loving parents. She’s been playing with the Gil Basketball Academy since the second grade and made the Alisal varsity team as a freshman.

She says GBA taught her all the fundamentals of the game, but also helped her develop her basketball IQ — the game play, strategy and other aspects beyond passing and dribbling.

Playing basketball also helped her develop life skills, confidence, communication, the importance of discipline and teamwork.

“It really helped me succeed in school and do well socially,” says Mikaela, who won the Alisal team MVP award as both a freshman and sophomore.

She hopes to continue playing basketball after high school and hopes her high level of play her senior year will draw the attention of some college coaches.

“That’s the goal right now, to expose myself to schools and open up opportunities after high school,” she says, adding, to keep honing her skills, “I try to get on court as much as I can.”

At 5-foot-8-inches tall, she plays small forward on her teams and considers herself an offensive force as well as a good defender. She also plays tennis and swims competitively at Alisal.

“I consider myself a versatile player, I do a little bit of everything,” she says. She likes the excitement of being on the basketball court, working as a team and the intensity of the game.

In college she hopes to study biology and other sciences with the goal of becoming a physician’s assistant and perhaps one day, after her playing days are over, to come back to the community as a coach.

“I’ve spent so many years playing basketball, I don’t know where I’d be without it.”

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

Everyone’s Harvest to Kick Off National Nutrition Month on March 8, 2020 with Healthy Cooking Demonstration By Green Chef Sherrie Ransom

Everyone’s Harvest will kick off National Nutrition Month on March 8, 2020, with a healthy cooking demonstration by plant-based chef Sherrie Ransom of Green Being Cuisine at the Marina Certified Farmers’ Market.

Marina, CA, March 02, 2020 — Everyone’s Harvest will kick off National Nutrition Month on March 8, 2020, with a healthy cooking demonstration by plant-based chef Sherrie Ransom of Green Being Cuisine at the Marina Certified Farmers’ Market.

Ransom will prepare Garlic Turmeric Indian Curry from 12 to 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 8, 2020, at the market, 215 Reservation Road, in Marina.

National Nutrition Month is a nutrition education and information campaign sponsored annually by the American Dietetic Association (ADA). The March campaign, now in its fifth year, is designed to focus attention on making informed food choices and developing sound eating and exercise habits.

Food has always been an important element of hospitality in Ransom’s family, a delicious welcome for friends and strangers. She continues this tradition by providing personal chef services, culinary classes, events and nutrition education to locals and visitors to Monterey County. As a plant-based chef, she is better able to prepare delicious meals using nutritious ingredients.

Ransom earned her degree in biology and went on to complete certification as a gourmet raw food, vegan chef, culinary instructor and nutrition educator. As a lead Instructor for the prestigious Living Light Culinary Institute, she found her passion and honed her skills. Returning to the central coast, she was eager to share the local bounty and founded Green Being Cuisine. Her dishes and classes highlight fresh, whole foods with a playful appreciation of flavor and texture.

This is Ransom’s fourth year working with Everyone’s Harvest.

“Everyone deserves healthy, delicious food,” she said. “I’m proud to be a part of programs that bring our community and harvest together. I’m grateful to live on the central coast. Every week our local farmers offer a wide variety of fresh, organic produce. I strive to feature these beautiful ingredients in all their glory as well as share how simple and delicious healthy foods can be.”

Here’s the recipe Ransom will be demonstrating on March 8:

Garlic Turmeric Indian Curry

“This dish is inspired by my 2019 culinary adventures in India. Many of the spices included are found in Ayurvedic dishes for cleansing and warming. Curries vary greatly around the world, region to region and family to family. Each chef adds their personal touch. This version warms my heart and my belly.”

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
1 tbs. amaranth flour
2 cups hot water
2 tsp. dry mango powder

2-4 green chilis, remove seeds, small chop

5 cloves garlic, small chop or mince

1 tbs. minced ginger

2 tbs. minced turmeric root

2 tbs. Oil: mustard or peanut (optional)

1/2 cup shallot, fine chop

2 tsp. coriander seed, ground

1 tsp. mustard seed, ground

1/4 tsp. black peppercorns, ground

1 pinch red chili flakes, ground

1/2 tsp. salt

To taste: chili powder

1 cup tomato puree (no seeds)

2 cups vegetable broth

1 avocado (optional)

Seasonal vegetables of choice: potato, eggplant, radish, green beans, celery root, squash, carrots, butternut squash, cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli.

Instructions:

1. To make oat milk, soak oats 4-plus hours. Drain and blend with 2 cups hot water. Strain through fine mesh strainer or nut milk bag.

2. Stir mango powder and amaranth into hot oat milk and set aside.

3. Using a mortar and pestle, make paste with chilis, garlic, ginger and turmeric

4. Heat oil (if using) in pan. Add shallots and cook until tender.

5. Add chili flakes, coriander, mustard, pepper. Stir and heat 1 minute. Add tomato puree and stir.

6. Add broth and salt. Heat on med heat until liquid just starts to boil.

7. Turn heat to low and slowly add oat milk mixture while stirring.

8. Add vegetables of choice, cover and simmer until vegetables are tender.

9. Add salt and chili powder to taste.

10. Add fresh cilantro and avocado when serving.

Notes:

>If you do not have mango powder, try fresh mango, sweet potato or pumpkin to add a little sweetness.

>If cooking all the vegetables at once, vary the cuts so they all finish cooking at about the same time or add the vegetables with a longer cook time first.

About Everyone’s Harvest
Everyone’s Harvest was founded in 2002 by Iris Peppard building on her capstone project as a student at California State University Monterey Bay. Since then, the small nonprofit has grown into a robust, values-driven 501(c)3 organization. It operates five certified farmers’ markets and is a catalyst for health-related programs across Monterey County.

The mission is to provide access to healthy, affordable fruits and vegetables through certified farmers’ markets and community food programs. The vision is for every community to have a fair and sustainable food system.

In 2008, Pacific Grove chose Everyone’s Harvest as the organization to run their community farmers’ market. This opportunity was a turning point for Everyone’s Harvest, leading to increased collaborations and partnerships.

More than 2,000 families are served weekly by Everyone’s Harvest markets in Salinas, Marina, and Pacific Grove – with more than 25 small and mid-scale farmers serving them. Everyone’s Harvest takes pride in the growing community of people who value organic food and rely on Everyone’s Harvest for access to local fresh fruits and vegetables.

The farmers’ market locations serve diverse communities and low-income people. Local hospitals host Everyone’s Harvest Certified Farmers’ Markets at Natividad Medical Center and Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System. Everyone’s Harvest pioneered access to several public nutrition benefits at its farmers’ markets for everyone to access fresh, local, and organic foods.

In 2012, Everyone’s Harvest was presented with Edible Monterey Bay magazine’s nonprofit “Local Hero” award and in 2013 the Monterey County Weekly newspaper named Iris as one of the “25 for the Next 25” movers and shakers in Monterey County. Iris is always quick to point out, “My success is not just my own. It’s because of everyone involved. It’s about a movement. It’s about food justice.”

Today at Everyone’s Harvest:

• Over 50 percent of Everyone’s Harvest Certified Farmers’ Markets farmers are certified organic and come from within a 100-mile radius of Monterey County.
• All five of our Certified Farmers’ Markets serve low-income communities and accept Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT), the modern day food stamp.
• Two of our Certified Farmers’ Markets are partnerships with medical institutions – Natividad Medical Center and Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System – who both partner in the Fresh Rx program.
• The organization offers free space to other nonprofits, community groups, and government entities at its markets for public outreach.

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

Central Coast VNA and Legal Services for Seniors Will Host Free Advance Care Planning Session on March 13, 2020, in Gonzales

Legal Services for Seniors and Central Coast VNA is hosting a free advance care planning “Go Wish” session March 13, 2020, in Gonzales.

Monterey, CA, March 02, 2020 — Legal Services for Seniors and Central Coast VNA is hosting a free advance care planning “Go Wish” session March 13, 2020, in Gonzales.

This interactive workshop will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, March 13, 2020, at Taylor Farms Family Health & Wellness Center 850 5th Street, in Gonzales.

This workshop will help community members start the dialogue about their options for care through end of life "Go Wish," a card game that has made it easier and often fun to start the conversation about end-of-life wishes. Come see the Mobile Unit and its valuable resources, such as informational documents for advance care planning, end-of-life planning and health care.

For more information, contact Elizabeth Birruete at (831) 241-3834, go to www.ccvna.com; or email workshops@senior.legal.

CCVNA and Legal Services for Seniors are members of Juntos con Esperanza/Together With Hope, an initiative of the Hospice Giving Foundation. This partnership was formed to promote acceptance, understanding, and care through end-of-life for people in South County. The partnership has begun talking with people in the community to understand their hopes, as well as what makes it hard for people, especially in the Latino culture, to talk about and plan for end of life. With better understanding, the goals are to expand services, with respect for culture, faith and family, so families get the best care possible, when they need it, in the way they need it. The partnership will host activities so people can talk openly, meet local professionals, and begin to trust and learn about available resources and services.

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

VNA Community Services brings wellness to our community. Well known as the community immunizers; experienced, professional registered nurses provide on- site flu and vaccine services.

As the only travel health clinic, VNA provides comprehensive consultation and immunizations for international travelers. Health screenings and education are offered to corporate business, in the field or in the board room. Nurses provide services to local schools to meet state-mandated screenings, vaccines and staff education.

VNA provides intermittent care, covered primarily by insurance, through the expert skills of our trained and certified clinicians, to assist patients, families, and caregivers in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes. The home health division offers key specialty program, including cardiac, connections, diabetic, orthopedic, and palliative care. These individual programs have advanced practice clinicians and program expertise.

VNA Hospice is specialized type of care for those facing a life-limiting illness, their families and their caregiver. The care involves a team-oriented approach to expert medical care, pain management, and emotional and spiritual support expressly tailored to the patient’s needs and wishes. A key component to the team is VNA Volunteers who give their time to improve the lives of others. For the community, grief and loss support are offered to individuals or groups.

VNA & Hospice, Inc.
PO Box 2480
Monterey, CA 93942-2480
Phone:831-226-7666
Fax: 831-648-7726
Email: vnainfo@ccvna.com
https://ccvna.com/

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

Central Coast VNA Will Host Free Advance Care Planning Workshop on March 5, 2020, in King City

Central Coast VNA is hosting a free advance care planning workshop March 5, 2020, in King City.

Monterey, CA, February 28, 2020 — Central Coast VNA is hosting a free advance care planning workshop March 5, 2020, in King City.

The workshop will be held from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Thursday, March 5, 2020, at Leo Meyer Senior Plaza, 425 King Street, in King City. Presenter will be Teresa Aguilar-Lepe, LVN, CCVNA’s Palliative Care Coordinator.

Residents at Leo Meyer Senior Plaza will receive education and resources on the following topics:

>Why advance care planning is important?

>Benefits of advance care planning and having an advance directive in place

>Encouragement to have this discussion with your family by playing the "Go Wish" card game

For more information, contact Elizabeth Birruete at (831) 241-3834 or go to www.ccvna.com.

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

VNA Community Services brings wellness to our community. Well known as the community immunizers; experienced, professional registered nurses provide on- site flu and vaccine services.

As the only travel health clinic, VNA provides comprehensive consultation and immunizations for international travelers. Health screenings and education are offered to corporate business, in the field or in the board room. Nurses provide services to local schools to meet state-mandated screenings, vaccines and staff education.

VNA provides intermittent care, covered primarily by insurance, through the expert skills of our trained and certified clinicians, to assist patients, families, and caregivers in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes. The home health division offers key specialty program, including cardiac, connections, diabetic, orthopedic, and palliative care. These individual programs have advanced practice clinicians and program expertise.

VNA Hospice is specialized type of care for those facing a life-limiting illness, their families and their caregiver. The care involves a team-oriented approach to expert medical care, pain management, and emotional and spiritual support expressly tailored to the patient’s needs and wishes. A key component to the team is VNA Volunteers who give their time to improve the lives of others. For the community, grief and loss support are offered to individuals or groups.

VNA & Hospice, Inc.
PO Box 2480
Monterey, CA 93942-2480

Phone:831-226-7666
Fax: 831-648-7726
Email: vnainfo@ccvna.com
https://ccvna.com/

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

The Clement Hotel in Palo Alto, CA Named Four-Star in Forbes Travel Guide’s 2020 Star Awards

The Clement Hotel Earns Prestigious Accolade; All Ratings Showcased on ForbesTravelGuide.com

Palo Alto, CA, February 28, 2020 — Forbes Travel Guide (“FTG”), the world-renowned and only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants and spas, today announced its annual Star Rating list, presenting The Clement Hotel with a new Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star hotel award. The Clement Hotel will be showcased with all of the Star Award winners on ForbesTravelGuide.com.

The all-inclusive hotel of the future has arrived with The Clement Hotel, where a personal chef and concierge come standard and everything is customized to your individual preference. Everything from room service, to a 24-hour guest pantry (grab local favorite Tin Pot Creamery ice cream from the freezer whenever the urge hits you!), to valet parking and gratuities are included with your stay.

You’ll find the upscale 23-suite boutique hotel centrally located across from Stanford University with Downtown Palo Alto’s chic shops, tasty restaurants and soothing spas just a short walk away.

The Clement Hotel strives to be a home away from home and invites you to think of the shared spaces — a living room, dining room and kitchen — as your own. Here, everything will be taken care of for you and you won’t have to lift a finger. Staff members are your welcoming hosts, greeting you by name with your preferred beverage.

“This is such an honor and validation of the commitment of our ownership to be Silicon Valley’s best hotel experience. The guest experience is what we take pride in, this is a wonderful acknowledgment of those efforts, ” said The Clement Hotel’s General Manager, Sebastian Royce Stacey.

Forbes Travel Guide is recognized for creating the original concept of Five-Star service, and The Clement Hotel is the latest addition to its illustrious annual Star Rating list.

“We have been committed to championing genuine Five-Star service for more than 60 years, and this year’s winners, as always, exemplify the very highest standards in hospitality,” said Filip Boyen, CEO of Forbes Travel Guide.

“It is difficult to earn a Forbes Travel Guide rating, and all our Star-Rated winners have shown how incredibly deserving they are of their accolades by demonstrating sheer dedication in their passion for service. We congratulate them all.”

To view the full Star Ratings for 2020, visit ForbesTravelGuide.com.

For a detailed explanation of how Forbes Travel Guide compiles its Star Ratings, click here.

Connect with The Clement Hotel:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theclementpaloalto
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheClementHotel
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theclementpaloalto

About The Clement Hotel:
While unparalleled service is key to any great luxury hotel, The Clement Palo Alto takes its impeccable service to another level with an all-inclusive concept, including personalized concierge services, breakfast, lunch and dinner in an on-premise location of the guest's choice.

All wine, beer and cocktails, in-room mini-refrigerator (stocked with the guest's favorites), and fully-stocked Guest Pantry available around the clock, are just a few of the amenities included in this all-inclusive experience.

In fact, The Clement Palo Alto is more than all-inclusive, it is all-exclusive, catering exclusively to the guest's personal tastes and desires.

The Clement Palo Alto is ideally located across from Stanford University and next to downtown Palo Alto, with its award-winning restaurants, world-class shopping and upscale spas. It is just 45 minutes south of San Francisco and only 30 minutes north of San Jose, not only making it convenient, but easily accessible to the world-famous sights and myriad activities of both cities.

Overall, The Clement Palo Alto offers a unique, one-of-a-kind 6-star experience in the heart of Silicon Valley with unparalleled personal service, all-inclusive luxury and privacy in a warm, inviting and luxurious residential environment.

The Clement Palo Alto
711 El Camino Real
Palo Alto, California 94301
650.322.7111
www.theclementpaloalto.com

Connect with Forbes Travel Guide:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/ForbesTravelGuide
Twitter: www.twitter.com/ForbesInspector
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ForbesTravelGuide

About Forbes Travel Guide:
Forbes Travel Guide is the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants and spas. Our anonymous professional inspectors evaluate based on up to 900 objective standards, with an emphasis on exceptional service, to help discerning travelers select the world’s best luxury experiences. The only way to get a Five-Star, Four-Star or Recommended rating is by earning it through our independent inspection process. For more information about Forbes Travel Guide, please visit ForbesTravelGuide.com.

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

Carmel Jewish Film Festival Celebrates 10th Anniversary with Award-Winning Movies, Speakers, Receptions March 7 – 22, 2020

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

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

Festival highlights include:

OPENING NIGHT (MARCH 7)
“Fiddler: Miracle of Miracles”
When "Fiddler on the Roof" opened on Broadway in 1964, it explored themes of tradition, religion, and anti-Semitism against a modern backdrop of radical social change that addressed gender roles, sexuality, and race. Rare archival footage and interviews with musical luminaries explore the legacy of this long- running, award-winning musical. Broadway actor Michael Bernardi will answer questions entertain following the film. Michael is the youngest actor to play Tevye on Broadway and is the son of actor Herschel Bernardi. Local favorites Reg Huston and Alisa Fineman will also make appearances.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Central Coast YMCA Opens Registration for its 2020 Summer Day Camps

For your child’s best summer ever, sign up for a Central Coast YMCA Summer Day Camps — registration is now open at all five YMCA locations

Salinas, CA, February 26, 2020 — For your child’s best summer ever, sign up for a Central Coast YMCA Summer Day Camps — registration is now open at all five YMCA locations: Monterey, South County, Salinas, San Benito and Watsonville, with the first camp to start June 8, 2020.

No matter your preference — indoor camps, outdoor camps, sports camps and more — the Y offers a summer experience that will leave you and your child with a grin on your faces!

Early registration continues through March 31; regular registration dates: April 1 to Aug. 12. Week 1 Begins June 8, 2020; and will be held every week, 7:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Monday – Friday, June 8 – Aug. 12, 2020 (1/2 day on July 3).

Registration forms are available at: https://www.centralcoastymca.org/clientuploads/PDF/SalinasCommunity/Day%20Camp/SYMCA_Summer_Day_Camp_Registration_Packet_2019.pdf

All campers must have their registration form completed and turned into the YMCA and balance paid prior to the camp session. No child may enter camp without the Registration Form or with a balance.

At the Y, no one is ever turned away because they lack the ability to pay. We offer financial assistance so everyone has the opportunity to take advantage of the Y's valuable programs and services. If you would like to apply for financial assistance, click on xxx (one of the links below), fill out the form and bring it to your local YMCA.

Kids thrive in Summer Camp at the Y, where they will find a safe, caring environment in which they can discover who they are and the gifts they have to share:

• Caring camp counselors committed to helping children build confidence and character by being positive role models
• Tons of new friendships waiting to be made
• Discovering not just the wonders of an active lifestyle, but the joy of exploring unique talents and our wonderful local community
• Time to share strengths and develop new ones
• Creating memories to last a lifetime!

Weekly Camp Themes:

Week 1: Beach Party

Week 2: Super Hero

Week 3: Full STEAM Ahead

Week 4: Back to the Future

Week 5: Wacky Spirit

Week 6: Animal Planet

Week 7: Iron Chef Throwdown

Week 8: Story Wars

Week 9: World of Games

Week 10: World of Art

Week 11: Summer Send Off

Daily Schedule

7-9 a.m., Check in (South County & Monterey)

7:30-9 a.m., Check in (Salinas, San Benito & Watsonville)

Choice Time (Group Games, Arts & Crafts, Board Games)

9-9:30 a.m.: Camp Fire

9:30-10:30 a.m.: Group Game/Team Building

10:30-10:45 a.m.: Snack

10:45-12:00 a.m.: Arts & Crafts/Literacy

12:00-12:30 p.m.: Lunch/Clean Up

12:30-1:00 p.m.: Choice time (Group Games, Art Projects, Readers Theater)

1:00-1:45 p.m.: Sports & Group Games

1:45-3:30 p.m.: Swimming (Salinas & Watsonville); Healthy Living/Cooking Project (South County, San Benito & Monterey)

3:30-4:15 p.m.: Enrichment/STEM

4:15-5:45 p.m.: Reading Club

5:00-5:45 p.m.: Closing Circle

5:45-6:00 p.m.: Sign Out

For more information or questions, contact Mikayla Spooner, Youth Development Director at: mspooner@ymcacentralcoast.org or by calling (831) 758-3811 ext. 1008.

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.

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

Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa Will Host a Farewell Jazz Celebration Weekend for Fireplace Lounge March 6-8, 2020

The Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa is pulling out all the stops March 6-8, 2020

Monterey, CA, February 25, 2020 — The Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa is pulling out all the stops March 6-8, 2020, for its farewell weekend for the Fireplace Lounge, which will undergo an extensive two-month renovation, featuring former Santana vocalist Tony Lindsay, Japanese singing sensation Mayumi Abe and jazz flutist Tim Jackson.

To help celebrate this “pause for the cause” construction break, the lounge will be filled with live jazz, starting with a special Happy Hour performance from 4-7 p.m. Friday, March 6, with Japanese jazz vocal phenom Mayumi Abe, who has been thrilling fans and bandmates alike with her vocal prowess, amazing range, and her own unique style singing American jazz standards.

The celebration continues at 7:30 p.m. that night with Lindsay, who toured and recorded with Santana from 1995-2015, sings with Tower of Power, has been awarded 11 Grammy awards, and also performed as a vocalist with Aretha Franklin, Curtis Mayfield, Steve Winwood, Al Jarreau and many more. Lindsay, who is well known locally for fronting his popular R&B/jazz band Spangalang, will perform with the house band until 11 p.m., so get there early.

The farewell weekend continues at 7:00 p.m. Saturday, March 7 with Santa Cruz jazz flutist Tim Jackson, who is also the executive director of the Monterey Jazz Festival, performing with the David Morwood Jazz Band, the house band for the weekend. Jackson is known for his deep jazz knowledge and melodic, swinging style on flute.

To close out the weekend, Morwood will be joined by jazz-blues vocalist Lee Durley to host a live jazz jam session from 7:00 pm to 10:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 8, with many musical surprises in store. Morwood is the house drummer and music director for the Hyatt Regency Monterey.

The Fireplace Lounge Jazz Jam sessions have become legendary in the past 22 years as some of the biggest names in jazz and blues have joined the bandstand, including George Benson, Wynton Marsalis, Percy Heath, Ray Drummond, Roberta Gamborini, Benny Green, James Williams, Regina Carter, Branford Marsalis, Jeff Hamilton, Kenny Washington, and many more!

Stay tuned for the grand re-opening date and a fun welcome-back celebration.

Call (831) 372-1234 for more information. The Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa is located at 1 Old Golf Course Road, in Monterey.

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

Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History to Host 2020 Walk of Remembrance to Honor Lives of Early Chinese-American Settlers

The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History will host the 2020 Walk of Remembrance honoring the lives of early Chinese-American settlers, on May 3, starting at the museum.

Pacific Grove, CA, February 25, 2020 — The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History will host the 2020 Walk of Remembrance honoring the lives of early Chinese-American settlers, on May 3, starting at the museum.

The 2020 Walk of Remembrance, which will be held from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, May 3, 2020, will begin with introductions at the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History at 165 Forest Ave., and will include light refreshments.

Museum Executive Director Jeanette Kihs and fifth-generation Chinese Fishing Village descendant Gerry Low-Sabado will be among those greeting visitors to the event. Low-Sabado will speak about her quest to tell her ancestor’s Chinese-American story.

There will be a facilitated discussion to discover connections about how our own experiences impacts and influences history. The Monterey Bay Lion Dance Team will lead the short walk to Lovers Point, then along the bike trail, to the site where the village once stood. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the half-mile trek.

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

About the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History
In 1883, our museum opened its doors among the first wave of natural history museums in America. Naturalists of this era, such as John Muir And Louis Aggasiz, began a national tradition of hands-on science education and nature preservation. The museum has continued this tradition for 135 years. The museum’s mission is to inspire discovery, wonder, and stewardship of our natural world. It envisions a community of curious minds, engaged in discovering the natural heritage and cultural legacy that exist today on the Central California Coast. The Museum is a catalyst for conservation and a valued learning resource in this region, facilitating active inquiry for all ages.

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

Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History Hosts Exciting, Informative Events for Both Children and Adults in March, April and May 2020

The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History has a number of fun and informative events for both children and adults on tap for March, April and May 2020.

Pacific Grove, CA, February 24, 2020 — The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History has a number of fun and informative events for both children and adults on tap for March, April and May 2020.

Here are the events scheduled so far for March, April, and May 2020. Events are held at the Museum, except where noted, at 165 Forest Ave., Pacific Grove.

Member Event: Birding by the Bay

8-10 a.m. Saturday, March 7, 2020

Canyon Del Rey Blvd, Del Rey Oaks, CA 93940

Members are invited to join us at Frog Pond Wetland Preserve as we wake up with the birds for some spotting and identifying! Amanda Preece, Board Member of the Monterey Audubon Society and with California State Parks at Asilomar, will be leading the walk as we peer through our binoculars to get a better look at those flighty friends that live all around us. Preece is no stranger to birds - making her living restoring native habitats and leading bird walks at Asilomar, pursuing a graduate degree in environmental science with her thesis related to songbird use of nest boxes, and spending her free time as a Black Oystercatcher monitor among other volunteering pursuits.

RSVP to brooker@pgmuseum.org

For members who do not have binoculars, we will have some on hand to share.

Not a member yet? Join at: pgmuseum.org/membership

Night Owl: Prehistoric Party

7-10 p.m. Saturday, March 14, 2020

Are You Ready To Party Like It's 19 Million Years Ago?
Join Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History as we put on a Night Owl fundraiser of epoch proportions! This will be your opportunity to get up-close to fossils from our collection, while enjoying games, craft drinks, delicious bites, and tromp-stomping music. Rediscover your sense of wonder while supporting the museum during this ancient after-hours event — extinction not guaranteed! Prehistoric costumes encouraged, and special prizes will be awarded for best costume.

$29 for members online, $39 for non-members online, and $49 at the door, which includes two food tickets and one drink ticket. Proceeds support museum education programs. Must be 21 and older. Visit www.pgmuseum.org/night-owl for tickets and further information.

Hardcore Natural History: When Plants Rules the Earth — The Legacy of the Carboniferous

6:30-8 p.m., Thursday, March 26, 2020

The Carboniferous Period of geologic time stands as a critical period in the history of the earth. Dr. Edward Clifton will describe how a combination of plate tectonics, global climate change and the evolution of land plants converged to create the coal resources that fueled the Industrial Revolution. We will visit the vast swamps that covered much of North America, Europe and Asia, noting the unique flora and fauna of the time. Wear everyday clothes — the Carboniferous climate was more like that of today than nearly any other period of geologic time. But you might want to bring repellent — Carboniferous insects were huge!

$5 for members online, $10 non-members online or $15 at the door.

Science Saturday — Bees, Wasps, Honey, & Hives
10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, March 28, 2020

Explore the sweet side of science as Science Saturday turns its attention to bees, wasps, honey, and hives. Do all bees make honey? How do you tell a wasp from a bee? Do all bees sting? Find the answers to all of your buzzing questions as you complete a craft, and learn about some of our most important local pollinators. As always, admission to Science Saturday is free.

California Naturalist
11 weeks, every Wednesday starting Wednesday, March 25 thru June 3 (plus five Saturday field trips), from 6:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Do you enjoy learning about the natural world? Would you like to learn about the amazing and unique ecology of California? If so, become a Certified California Naturalist! The Museum is partnering with University of California Cooperative Extension to offer this 12-week certification program. The California Naturalist class covers the natural and cultural history of California, with an in-depth look at our local ecology. Through field trips, classroom instruction and hands-on exercises, participants will observe and learn about the variety of plant and animal communities of our region.

For further information and to enroll, visit https://www.pgmuseum.org/california-naturalist

Smart Gardening Fair

10 am.-5 p.m. Saturday, April 4, 2020

The Monterey Bay Chapter of the UC Master Gardeners will be partnering with the Museum to host the Smart Garden Fair. This event will feature speakers, demonstrations, marketplace, and plant sale in the Museum’s Native Plant Garden.

Botanical Sketching Workshop

1-4 p.m. Saturday, April 11, 2020

Wildflower Month continues! Learn to draw our native wildflowers with local science illustrator Erin E. Hunter. The workshop will cover some basic plant anatomy and botanical drawing techniques. All skill levels welcome! $35 members, $45 non-members, 25 spots available.

To purchase tickets, go to: https://www.pgmuseum.org/museum-events/2020/04/11-botanical-sketching

59th Annual Wildflower Show

10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, April 17-Sunday, April 19, 2020

For over half a century this Wildflower Show has been one of the largest on the Northern and Western Hemispheres with over 600 species and varieties of wildflowers. This is truly an event that generations of families can remember.

The Museum partners with the Monterey Bay Chapter of the California Native Plant Society (CNPS) to hold this cherished annual event. More than 30 members of the Native Plant Society spend over a week scouring Monterey County and beyond collecting the finest specimens of wildflowers blooming that spring. Botanists, garden enthusiasts, and people just looking for flowers they would like to plant in their gardens will all appreciate this comprehensive and spectacular array of wildflowers.

Science Saturday — Day of the Dinosaur

10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, April 25, 2020

Prepare for time travel during this prehistoric Science Saturday, when we'll set our sights on the age of the dinosaurs. Presented in partnership with the Carmel Valley Gem and Mineral Society, this event will feature fossils, footprints, and more as we learn what made the dinosaurs so successful, and also what led to their extinction. As always, admission to Science Saturday is free.

Illustrating Nature Exhibition Opening

5:30-7 p.m. Friday, May 1, 2020

The Museum invites you to attend the free opening reception for the 2020 Illustrating Nature Exhibit. Each year the Museum partners with the prestigious Science Illustration Program at CSUMB Extended Education to present art in the service of science. View artwork by the program's graduating students, who are sought after by scientific institutions and publications around the world.

This six-week exhibition begins Friday, May 1st, and runs until June 14, 2020.

Walk of Remembrance

1-4 p.m. Sunday, May 3, 2020

The 2020 Walk of Remembrance, honoring the lives of early Chinese-American settlers, will begin with introductions at the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History and include light refreshments. Museum Executive Director Jeanette Kihs and fifth generation Chinese Fishing Village descendant Gerry Low-Sabado will be among those greeting visitors to the event. Low-Sabado will speak about her quest to tell her ancestor’s Chinese-American story. There will be a facilitated discussion to discover connections about how our own experiences impacts and influences history. The Monterey Bay Lion Dance Team will lead the walk to Lovers Point, then along the rec trail, to the site where the village once stood. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the half-mile trek.

Member Appreciation Night

5:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 5, 2020

As a thank-you to Museum members and their continued support, we welcome members to join us for a night of hospitality to show our appreciation! The Museum opens its doors to members of all ages for beverages, refreshments, and crafts to celebrate the wonderful people who help make our mission possible.

RSVP to brooker@pgmuseum.org. Not a member yet? Join at pgmuseum.org/membership

Children’s Exhibit Opening

10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Saturday, May 16, 2020

Bring the family and come explore our newest addition to the museum: Children’s Exhibit-BUGS! This newest exhibit is dedicated to our youngest visitors, and to celebrate the grand opening, we will have delightful crafts and fun activities!

Nature Journaling in Monterey Bay with John Muir Laws

5:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, May 28, 2020

The Monterey region is a wonderful place to keep your own nature journal. Learn fundamental strategies and techniques to get your observations to paper! We will begin with a workshop, and end with a lecture and book signing from none other than John Muir Laws. Laws’ books will be available for sale in Museum Store. $35 for members, $45 for non-members, 35 spots available.

To purchase tickets, go to: https://www.pgmuseum.org/museum-events/20/05/28nature-journaling-johnmuirlaws

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

About the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History
In 1883, our museum opened its doors among the first wave of natural history museums in America. Naturalists of this era, such as John Muir And Louis Agassiz, began a national tradition of hands-on science education and nature preservation. The museum has continued this tradition for over 135 years. The museum’s mission is to inspire discovery, wonder, and stewardship of our natural world. It envisions a community of curious minds, engaged in discovering the natural heritage and cultural legacy that exist today on the Central California Coast. The Museum is a catalyst for conservation and a valued learning resource in this region, facilitating active inquiry for all ages.

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

Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History Launches Six-week run of Illustrating Nature exhibit on May 1

The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History presents art in the service of science through an upcoming six-week exhibition titled Illustrating Nature.

Pacific Grove, CA, February 24, 2020 - The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History presents art in the service of science through an upcoming six-week exhibition titled Illustrating Nature.

To kick off the exhibit that runs through June 14, the museum (165 Forest Ave., Pacific Grove) invites the public to attend a free opening reception on Friday, May 1 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Each year PGMNH partners with the Science Illustration Program at CSU-Monterey Bay Extended Education. One of the most prestigious programs of its kind in the nation, the Science Illustration Certificate at CSUMB prepares students who are sought after by renowned institutions and publications around the world.

The work of these graduates can be found at museums and science centers such as the Smithsonian Institution, New York’s American Museum of Natural History, California Science Center and the Los Angeles Museum of Natural History; in top science magazines such as National Geographic, Scientific American, American Scientist, Nature, Natural History and Audubon; at zoos, aquaria, and botanical gardens such as the National Zoo, Washington, D.C., the Monterey Bay Aquarium; Kew Botanical Gardens, U.K.; as well as U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and hundreds of equally respected organizations.

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

About the Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History
In 1883, our museum opened its doors among the first wave of natural history museums in America. Naturalists of this era, such as John Muir And Louis Aggasiz, began a national tradition of hands-on science education and nature preservation. The museum has continued this tradition for 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.

News media: If images are used, please credit the artist.

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

The Artichoke Festival Board Celebrates the 61st Annual Artichoke Festival this May 30 & 31, 2020

The Artichoke Festival introduces an expanded non-profit partnership program, and new theme for 2020, “Field to Festival,” featuring an increased focus on farming and agricultural education.

Castroville, California, February 19, 2020 - The Artichoke Festival, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, celebrates its 61st year honoring the California State vegetable on May 30 and 31, 2020, at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center in Monterey. This year’s festival introduces an expanded non-profit partnership program, which includes Hartnell College Foundation and Salinas Valley Arts and Innovation Hub, Salinas Steinbeck Rotary, Partnership for Children, the Marina Lion’s Club, and Monterey Surf Soccer Club. The Festival’s theme, “Field to Festival,” features an increased focus on farming and agricultural education. Artichoke lovers of all ages will enjoy masterful artichoke cooking demos and tasting opportunities, beautiful artichoke-themed art, and plenty of entertainment for a fun-filled weekend. Doors open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, May 30, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, May 31. Festival admission tickets and more info are available at www.ArtichokeFestival.org.

COMMUNITY GROWTH AND EMPOWERMENT

Through expanded partnerships with non-profit organizations on the Central Coast, festival attendees will enjoy more of what the community has to offer while helping the festival provide vital funding support for local charities and non-profit organizations.

Festival proceeds will be shared with non-profit organizations and programs that serve the greater Castroville and Central Coast communities. This year’s lineup of non-profit partners includes Hartnell College Foundation and Salinas Valley Arts and Innovation Hub, Salinas Steinbeck Rotary, Partnership for Children, the Marina Lion’s Club, and Monterey Surf Soccer Club. In addition, proceeds will directly benefit sports and parks and recreation activities in North Monterey County schools, to name a few.

ENTERTAINMENT, ACTIVITIES, AND EVENTS

ARTICHOKES GALORE

Want to get a little more creative with your artichoke recipes? Monterey County’s finest chefs will showcase the versatility of the artichoke and share their own preparation techniques at our Chef Demos. Our current chefs include Daniel Elinan the Executive Chef at The Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa; Pat Hopper, former Manager of the Artichoke Advisory Board, who shares the ABC’s of Artichokes; and Pitmaster Hondo Hernandez with Stonies Taphouse & Bistro. All chef demos will be held on the Chef Demo Stage at the festival and are free with admission to the festival. Visit our website for chef demo updates.

Attendees can get hands-on experience by participating in Field Tours, hosted by Ocean Mist Farms. Artichoke experts will take you on a guided tour of Castroville’s Artichoke fields for a personalized educational experience about what it takes to grow this unique vegetable.

The Canasta Race — the festival’s 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! Contestants get to go home with their harvested Artichokes!

Who can choke down the most chokes? The Artichoke Eating contest is a great way to test your eating skills, or just cheer on your favorite contestant. Winner gets a certificate and a place in the halls of Artichoke Infamy.

WINE, BEER, AND SPIRITS GARDEN

Hosted by the Salinas Steinbeck Rotary, Guests over 21 can visit the Wine and Beer Tasting Garden to enjoy wine tasting, micro brews and spirits from some of the best vintners and brewers in the state. Sunday will be a special day set aside for brewers and enthusiasts of home brewed beer. The Wine & Beer Garden is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

ART

The Ocean Mist Farms AGRO Art Competition on Saturday, May 30, will challenge local artists, culinary whizzes, and kids of all ages to sculpt colorful and 3-dimensional artwork using only fresh produce. Each piece is created that day at the festival to the enjoyment and amazement of festival attendees. Over $6,500 in cash prizes will be awarded in the Ocean Mist Farms AGRO Art competition. Entries are free and judging begins at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 30 with the announcement of winners at 2 p.m. in the Farmer’s Market.

The Quilt Challenge will feature one-of-a-kind handmade quilts made especially for the Artichoke Festival, and will be on display on Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31. Festival attendees can vote for their favorite artichoke-themed designs, to be announced on Sunday, May 31.

Attendees can experience the many talents of local and budding photographers and artists at the first annual Artichoke Festival Photography and Art Exhibition. Hosted by the Hartnell College Foundation and Salinas Valley Arts and Innovation Hub, the event is free to all festival attendees, and will be located in the Monterey Room. Artist are encouraged to submit their art in support of this local cause. Visit our website’s new arts page to learn more.

CHILDREN AND FAMILY ACTIVITIES

Younger children along with family members of all ages will have fun in the designated Kids Zone, which includes a variety of educational STEM-based activities and hands-on presentations presented by Imagination Gallery.

Arti the Artichoke from Ocean Mist Farms, voted the Salinas-area fan favorite mascot, will be visiting the Kids Zone, farmer’s market, and throughout the festival for high-fives, hugs, and photo opportunities.

Farm and agricultural education is the focus of this year’s festival theme, “Field to Festival.” Festival guests can learn about the food they eat from farm to table, with local growers and producers in our Meet the Farmer interactive exhibition.

PHILANTHROPY

Something very special happening this year is the extension of the festival by one hour on Saturday, May 30th. This gives festival goers more time to enjoy an expanded musical entertainment schedule on the Main Stage, and a brand-new event — The Artichoke Cup Soccer Tournament. Monterey Surf Soccer Club will hold its first inaugural Artichoke Festival invitational soccer tournament in the Pattee Arena on both days of the Festival. 12 corporate teams of 10 adults each will compete in a two-day, 7-on-7 tournament to win the first ever “Artichoke Cup.” A portion of proceeds will benefit this local non-profit youth soccer organization. Admission is free to all festival admission ticket holders. The winning team will be announced on Sunday afternoon, May 31.

Guests are invited to a wonderful afternoon of auctions and artichokes at the festival’s Silent Auction. Featured items include exquisite, limited edition artwork, signed sports and entertainment collectibles, unique home décor, exotic getaways, and much more. Proceeds from the silent auction will benefit the non-profit 501(c)(3) community organizations and activities supported by the Artichoke Festival.

FESTIVAL 5K BEACH RUN

The 2nd Annual Artichoke Festival 5K Beach Run, returns to the Monterey Tides Hotel waterfront in Monterey on May 2, 2020. Runners and walkers alike can run on the beach with the festival’s favorite mascot, Arti the Artichoke, of Ocean Mist Farms. Our 5k beach run is exactly how it sounds, a fun run 100 percent on the sand with the sea breeze blowing in your face. Our first year was a hit and this year should be just as incredible. Come out and join us!

A complete schedule of entertainment events can be found at: https://artichokefestival.org/entertainment-events/

Festival admission tickets are available at www.ArtichokeFestival.org and at the door, ranging from $15 for adults; $5 for youth under 6-12; $10 for active military and seniors (62+). Children 5 and under are free. Field Tours can be reserved for $10 each for adults and youth. Special limited discount ticket packages will include an Arti-Family Pack for two adults and two children for $30 (save $10), and the It’s a Date package for two adults with wine and beer garden tasting tickets for $60 (save $20).

About the Annual Artichoke Festival
The Artichoke Festival began in 1959 and has since developed to become a harvest festival to celebrate the iconic artichoke and region known as the “Artichoke Center of the World.” The festival is produced by a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization and features family-fun events for all ages. It has been a primary source of funding for local non-profit groups for many years. For more information, visit http://artichokefestival.org/.

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

CAB of Santa Cruz County, Inc., Hosts Anniversary Event on Oct. 30 to honor 55 years fighting poverty

To mark 55 years working against poverty, the Community Action Board of Santa Cruz County, Inc., (CAB) will host a celebratory evening on Friday, Oct. 30 called “Honoring Our Past, Igniting The Future!”

Santa Cruz, CA, February 18, 2020 - To mark 55 years working against poverty, the Community Action Board of Santa Cruz County, Inc., (CAB) will host a celebratory evening on Friday, Oct. 30 called “Honoring Our Past, Igniting The Future!”

“For us, celebrating 55 years is a milestone,” said CAB Executive Director Maria Elena De La Garza. “It’s about honoring decades of work, but knowing that our job is not done, and igniting our passion for the future because there’s so much more to do.”

According to De La Garza, Santa Cruz County has the second highest poverty rate in California (to Los Angeles County) when you factor in cost of living. More than three quarters of CAB’s clients have family incomes less than 100 percent of the federal poverty guidelines.

Proceeds from the evening will help CAB operate six programs assisting close to 10,000 low-income people annually with impactful services.

The anniversary event promises “an evening of food, fun and inspiration,” taking place from 6-9 p.m. at the ISTW Portuguese Community Center, 124 Atkinson Lane in Watsonville. Early-bird tickets purchased before April 1 are priced at $75, and $95 from April through June ($110 after July 1). Find tickets at www.cabturns55.eventbrite.com.

Event sponsorships are available, from Gold ($10,000) to Partner ($1,000), with multiple benefits to the sponsor, including publicity, admission tickets and reserved table seating.

For more information, visit www.cabinc.org or call (831) 763-2147, ext. 294.

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

For 55 years, CAB of Santa Cruz County, Inc., has Worked to Eliminate Poverty and create Social change through Advocacy and Essential services

In January of 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson announced his famous “war on poverty,” vowing in his State of the Union address “not only to relieve the symptom of poverty, but to cure it and, above all, to prevent it.”

Santa Cruz, CA, February 18, 2020 - In January of 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson announced his famous “war on poverty,” vowing in his State of the Union address “not only to relieve the symptom of poverty, but to cure it and, above all, to prevent it.”

More than half a century later, the Community Action Board of Santa Cruz County, Inc., (CAB) continues that battle, operating six programs that assist close to 10,000 low-income people with emergency, sustaining/self-sufficiency services.

For 55 years — through ever-changing political and social landscapes — CAB has fought for a thriving, equitable and diverse community, free from poverty and injustice.

“We have the second highest poverty rate in California (to Los Angeles County) when you factor in cost of living,” said CAB Executive Director Maria Elena De La Garza, who notes that more than three quarters of CAB’s clients have family incomes less than 100 percent of the federal poverty guidelines.

To mark its 55 years working on the front lines fighting poverty, CAB will hold an event on Friday, Oct. 30 at the ISTW Portuguese Community Center in Watsonville. The theme of the evening is “Honoring Our Past, Igniting The Future!”

“For us, celebrating 55 years is a milestone,” said De La Garza. “It’s about honoring decades of work, but knowing that our job is not done, and igniting our passion for the future because there’s so much more to do.”

De La Garza said she would “love to work ourselves out of a job,” but that there still remains “a gap or disconnect or lack of knowledge about how people are impacted by poverty, what their assets are and what their needs are.”

There are multiple reasons for this “gap,” according to De La Garza, including political rhetoric, misinformation, miscommunication, and mistrust of systems in place.

This makes CAB’s mission even more significant, with more than 40 employees and nearly 600 volunteers working with the community on solutions to eliminate poverty and create social change through advocacy and essential services.

CAB’s board of directors come from diverse segments of the community, with low-income advocates, public sector representatives and individuals from the private sector as well.

“We stand at an interesting place, between grassroots activists and systems, and that’s a great place to be,” she said. “We get to engage with the community and hear from them and create a pathway to support change and strengthen systems to support low-income people.”

To stay abreast of the poverty situation in the county, every two years CAB conducts a needs assessment to guide its multi-year Community Action Plan. This helps capture a truer and deeper understanding of poverty in the community, leading to targeted action on many fronts.

“Over 55 years, the community has trusted us, the clients have trusted us, the families have trusted us, and our partners, too,” said De La Garza. “We can’t do this work alone, in a vacuum. There has to be trust in the work we do, and the value of the relationships we hold.”

For more information, visit www.cabinc.org or call (831) 763-2147, ext. 294.

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