Everyone’s Harvest Certified Farmers’ Markets Part of Innovative Partnership With Healthcare Providers to Provide Healthy Fruits and Vegetables to Improve Patients’ Overall Health

Everyone’s Harvest Certified Farmers’ Markets, in partnership with local healthcare providers, through the Fresh Rx program, has distributed $94,000 in healthy, local fruits and vegetables “prescriptions” to 150 families in need in our community in 2019.

Marina, CA, June 09, 2020 — Remember when your parents told you to “eat your vegetables?” Well, now under an innovative partnership between healthcare providers and farmers’ markets, doctors can “prescribe” fresh fruits and vegetables to young overweight patients and direct them to the farmers’ markets where they can receive $25 worth of fresh produce weekly.

Everyone’s Harvest Certified Farmers’ Markets, in partnership with local healthcare providers, through the Fresh Rx program, has distributed $94,000 in healthy, local fruits and vegetables “prescriptions” to 150 families in need in our community in 2019.

Results tracked by doctors show healthy decreases in the majority of participants’ overall body mass index, weight, and waist circumference, and other healthy lifestyle changes, including an increase in meals prepared as a family at home. To date, more than 350 families have benefited from Everyone’s Harvest’s Fresh Rx program, and Everyone’s Harvest has redeemed $300,000 in fresh produce “prescriptions.”

"One challenge to healthy nutrition, especially among low-income individuals, is access to and consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables,” said Karen Gomez, who was recently named market program manager for Everyone’s Harvest. “For this reason, I strongly believe in the Fresh Rx Program. Not just because it addresses the problem, but because it motivates people to live a healthier lifestyle for themselves, and for their families.”

The Fresh Rx program isn’t just about better access to fruits and vegetables. The program brings food into healthcare and equips healthcare providers with tools to address healthy eating and food insecurity. Participating clinics and hospitals teach classes about healthy eating, cooking, and the connection between food and health. Healthcare providers and healthcare staffs are becoming healthy food ambassadors, connecting patients with healthy resources in their communities.

Doctors involved in the program are reporting that it has helped strengthened the doctor-patient relationship, opened up more dialogue around healthy nutrition and contributed to their patients building new healthy habits. And they are reporting that they are issuing higher-priced prescriptions to fewer patients, deepening the impact and simplifying the implementation by participating doctors and clinics.

At this time, Everyone’s Harvest has three markets open, Marina, Pacific Grove and Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System (SVMHS) markets. The other Everyone’s Harvest certified farmers’ markets in Salinas, one at Women, Infants And Children (WIC) offices at 632 East Alisal St., and the other at Natividad Medical Center at 1441 Constitution Blvd., will open on June 16 and June 17, respectively. Both markets will be smaller, modified markets with social distancing plans in place. All markets have strict social distancing and thorough sanitation plans in place.

The Marina Certified Farmers’ Market is held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday at 215 Reservation Road, in Marina. The Pacific Grove Certified Farmers’ Market is held from 3 to 7 p.m. every Monday at the corner of Central and Grand avenues, in Pacific Grove. The Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System Certified Farmers’ Market is open on Fridays from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m., at 450 East Romie Lane, in Salinas. All are operating as essential businesses in the community and to ensure that fresh food is available to local residents.

“A healthy and safe farmers' market is our number-one priority,” said Everyone’s Harvest Executive Director Reid Norris. “Our farmers and vendors, like many small businesses in the community, rely on your continued support to bring you necessary services like fresh food and produce. We are doing this to support local farmers and give people a nutritious option for produce. So if you are able to, please keep supporting us.”

Everyone's Harvest will adhere to guidelines described in their Social Distancing Plan, created in collaboration with Monterey County Health Department, California Department of Public Health, and California Alliance of Farmers' Markets.

“Everyone's Harvest is working closely with the Monterey County Health Department, local governments, and our healthcare partners to best serve the community,” said Norris. “We are closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation, and we have implemented a plan of action for our markets.”

The plan of action includes the following:

•All vendors will receive Everyone's Harvest Social Distancing Plan and we will be closely monitoring vendor operations.

•Everyone’s Harvest asks that all vendors, farmers, and customers not attend the market if they are sick with fever, sneezing, or coughing.

•Best Practices: Market operations will be conducted in accordance with Monterey County Health Department guidelines for farmers’ markets operating as essential businesses during shelter in place.

•Helping with Prevention: Hand sanitizer will be offered at the Information Booth, and Everyone's Harvest will monitor and, if necessary, restrict attendance so that the market attendees can maintain “social distancing” recommended by the California Department of Public Health. Market attendees are encouraged to keep 6 feet of personal space between themselves. Sanitizing solution will be used regularly at the Information Booth for any frequently touched items or equipment.

•Vendors will wear gloves whenever possible and wash their hands frequently (handwashing is available at all EH markets). Sampling of products is discontinued until further notice.

•Everyone’s Harvest is following all updates given on COVID-19, including guidance from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), Monterey County Health Department, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), and local health officials.

•Everyone’s Harvest is changing its usual layout of its farmers’ markets in order to increase the amount of social distancing as much as possible. (See below.)

“We will continue to take the actions necessary to help protect the community,” said Norris. “Specifically, if we are notified of a staff member, vendor, or participant testing positive for COVID-19, they will be suspended from any of our certified farmers’ markets until they are medically cleared.”

In order to increase the amount of social distancing as much as possible, Everyone’s Harvest has changed its usual layout of its farmers’ markets.

The new layout splits the market into a waiting zone and a shopping/produce area.

There is a limit of 10 people maximum in the produce area and a limit to the number of people around a booth at one time, with the 6-foot social distancing parameters in effect. Unless a vendor has a two-tent setup, each vendor is limited to one customer at a time.

There are sanitizing station/table set up with wipes and hand sanitizer for customers to use before approaching vendor booths.

The market will have a list of what produce is being sold by the vendors that day and displaying it at a writing station so shoppers can write their grocery list with the items available and then be in and out of the market as quickly as possible.

Market managers will be on hand to assist customers with their shopping, maintaining the 6-foot rule and making sure shoppers aren’t waiting too long in the waiting area.

For more information, go to www.everyonesharvest.org or call (831) 384-6961.

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.
About Karen Gomez

Gomez graduated last year from CSU-Monterey Bay with a degree in Collaborative Health & Human Services and an interdisciplinary concentration of Public Administration/Nonprofit Management and Community Health. She is now pursuing her master’s degree in Public Administration at San Jose State University.

Gomez has been involved with various nonprofits for the past few years, and has enjoyed being able to apply the skills and knowledge she learned in school to real world challenges. She hopes to continuously help her community and make a difference. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, hiking and taking spontaneous trips. She can be reached at karen@everyonesharvest.org.

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

Everyone’s Harvest Certified Farmers’ Markets in Marina, Pacific Grove and Salinas Now Open, Two More in Salinas Slated to Open in Mid-June

Everyone’s Harvest Certified Farmers’ Markets in Marina, Pacific Grove and Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System in Salinas are now open, with two more in Salinas slated to open in mid-June.

Marina, CA, June 5, 2020 — Everyone’s Harvest Certified Farmers’ Markets in Marina, Pacific Grove and Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System in Salinas are now open, with two more in Salinas slated to open in mid-June.

The other Everyone’s Harvest certified farmers’ markets in Salinas, one at Women, Infants And Children (WIC) offices at 632 East Alisal St., and the other at Natividad Medical Center at 1441 Constitution Blvd., will open on June 16 and June 17, respectively. Both markets will be smaller, modified markets with social distancing plans in place. All markets have strict social distancing and thorough sanitation plans in place.

The Marina Certified Farmers’ Market is held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday at 215 Reservation Road, in Marina. The Pacific Grove Certified Farmers’ Market is held from 3 to 7 p.m. every Monday at the corner of Central and Grand avenues, in Pacific Grove. The Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System Certified Farmers’ Market is open on Fridays from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m., at 450 East Romie Lane, in Salinas. All are operating as essential businesses in the community and to ensure that fresh food is available to local residents.

All markets are continually adding more vendors. The Pacific Grove market now includes:

>Chef Soerke Peters of Mezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar in Pacific Grove, offering select pastas and sauces from the restaurant’s Retail Pasta menu.

>Chef Ron Mendoza’s Seaside-based Ad Astra Bread Co. — Offers fresh-baked sourdough, rustic breads, baguettes, flatbreads, pretzels, focaccia, coffee cake, and cinnamon rolls.

>Garlicville's Best Salsa — Offers fresh salsa made with Gilroy garlic in mild, medium, and hot.

>Also, Triple Delight Blueberries of Fresno and avocados are back.

Marina market now includes:

>Honey from MockaBees Aromas Apiary in Aromas.

Both PG and Marina markets now include:

>Susan Carter’s The Perfect Crumb Bakery in Monterey — Offers a variety of breakfast and dessert pastries, from scones and croissants to cookies, brownies, pies and cupcakes.

>San Leandro-based Hummus Heaven — Brothers Mourad and Tarek Cherif source local and seasonal ingredients from farmers markets to offer 17 flavors of hummus and many accompanying food items, including tapenades, grape leaves, pita chips, and more. Traditional techniques and small-batch productions are employed at their kitchen to give their products a North-African and Mediterranean flavor.

New vendors at Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System:

>Ledesma Family Farms organics from Holllister, Gustine and Watsonville.

At all markets:

> Stackhouse Orchards in the San Joaquin Valley is back with peaches, nectarines, and almonds.

>Taco trucks.

Everyone’s Harvest also announced it now has a new market program manager to help coordinate all markets, Karen Gomez.

Gomez graduated last year from CSU-Monterey Bay with a degree in Collaborative Health & Human Services and an interdisciplinary concentration of Public Administration/Nonprofit Management and Community Health. She is now pursuing her master’s degree in Public Administration at San Jose State University.

Gomez has been involved with various nonprofits for the past few years, and has enjoyed being able to apply the skills and knowledge she learned in school to real world challenges. She hopes to continuously help her community and make a difference. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, hiking and taking spontaneous trips.

And for convenience, safety and avoiding lines, consumers can pre-order their goods from markets in Marina, Pacific Grove and SVMHS by scanning a QR code with their smart phones located on the website at everyonesharvest.org. More info is also available at the green Everyone's Harvest info booth at each market.

As always, safety is a top concern at all Everyone’s Harvest markets.

“A healthy and safe farmers' market is our number-one priority,” said Everyone’s Harvest Executive Director Reid Norris. “Our farmers and vendors, like many small businesses in the community, rely on your continued support to bring you necessary services like fresh food and produce. We are doing this to support local farmers and give people a nutritious option for produce. So if you are able to, please keep supporting us.”

Everyone’s Harvest Farmers’ Markets will adhere to guidelines created in collaboration with Monterey County Health Department, California Department of Public Health, and California Alliance of Farmers' Markets, and will be operating under an order from the County of Monterey Health Department determining that certified farmers’ markets are “essential businesses” exempt from the “Shelter in Place” order by the Health Department that went into effect on March 18, 2020.

“Everyone's Harvest is working closely with Monterey County Health Department and the cities of Marina and Pacific Grove to best serve the community,” said Norris. “We are closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation, and we have implemented a plan of action for our markets.”

The plan of action includes the following:

•All vendors will receive Monterey County's Guidelines for Retail Food Establishments and we will be closely monitoring vendor operations.

•Everyone’s Harvest asks that all vendors, farmers, and customers not attend the market if they are sick with fever, sneezing, or coughing.

• Best Practices: Market operations will be conducted in accordance with guidelines created in collaboration with Monterey County Health Department, California Department of Public Health, and California Alliance of Farmers' Markets for farmers’ markets operating during shelter in place. This document will be made available at the market as well, and it recommends heightened measures such as extra space between stands, whenever possible, and disallowing sampling or prepared foods at the markets.

•Helping with Prevention: Hand sanitizer will be offered at the Information Booth, and Everyone's Harvest will monitor and, if necessary, restrict attendance so that the market attendees can maintain “social distancing” recommended by the California Department of Public Health. Market attendees are encouraged to keep 6 feet of personal space between themselves. Sanitizing solution will be used regularly at the Information Booth for any frequently touched items or equipment.

•Vendors will wear gloves whenever possible and wash their hands frequently (handwashing is available at all EH markets). Sampling of products is discontinued until further notice.

•Everyone’s Harvest is following all updates given on COVID-19, including guidance from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), Monterey County Health Department, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), and local health officials.

•Everyone’s Harvest is changing its usual layout of its farmers’ markets in order to increase the amount of social distancing as much as possible. (See below.)

“We will continue to take the actions necessary to help protect the community,” said Norris. “Specifically, if we are notified of a staff member, vendor, or participant testing positive for COVID-19, they will be suspended from any of our certified farmers’ markets until they are medically cleared.”

In order to increase the amount of social distancing as much as possible, Everyone’s Harvest has changed its usual layout of its farmers’ markets.

The new layout splits the market into a waiting zone and a shopping/produce area.

There is a limit of 10 people maximum in the produce area and a limit to the number of people around a booth at one time, with the 6-foot social distancing parameters in effect. Unless a vendor has a two-tent setup, each vendor is limited to one customer at a time.

There are sanitizing station/table set up with wipes and hand sanitizer for customers to use before approaching vendor booths.

Each market will have a list of what produce is being sold by the vendors that day and displaying it at a writing station so shoppers can write their grocery list with the items available and then be in and out of the market as quickly as possible.

Market managers will be on hand to assist customers with their shopping, maintaining the 6-foot rule and making sure shoppers aren’t waiting too long in the waiting area.

Social distancing at Everyone’s Harvest Farmers’ Markets, per California Department of Public Health Guidelines:

Space booths accordingly to increase social distancing among patrons in line and walking about the market.
Ensure that social distancing of six feet per person for non-family members is maintained and make clear that family members [and households] can participate in activities together, stand in line together, etc.
Limit the number of customers at any given time as necessary to reduce outdoor/indoor crowding and lines to meet social distancing guidance.
Increase cleaning and sanitizing frequency of restroom and other high contact areas.
Train employees on best hygiene practices including washing their hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Offer additional hand washing or sanitizing stations throughout the venue.
Eliminate events/marketing that target individuals that the CDPH has identified as higher risk of serious illness for COVID-19.
Encourage activities such as pre-bagging to expedite purchasing.
Suspend sampling activities.
Increase frequency of cleaning of tables, payment devices, and other surfaces.
Eliminate non-essential/non-related services, such as bands or other entertainment.
At the end of the market, continue to utilize local food recovery systems to feed/donate extra products to populations in need.
If applicable, continue accepting EBT payment.

For more information, go to www.everyonesharvest.org or call (831) 384-6961.

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://everyonesharvest.org/

Max’s Helping Paws Foundation earns $5,000 grant from Monterey Peninsula Foundation

Max’s Helping Paws Foundation received a financial boost last week through a $5,000 grant from the Monterey Peninsula Foundation

Monterey, CA, June 04, 2020 - Max’s Helping Paws Foundation received a financial boost last week through a $5,000 grant from the Monterey Peninsula Foundation, host of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and PURE Insurance Championship.

The financial gift will go a long way toward furthering Max’s mission of helping local families fund treatment for pets in crisis.

What began in 2016 as a way for Dyana Klein to honor the memory of her beloved dog Maximillian has grown into a critical source of funding for local families, especially during the current pandemic. In March the foundation reached an important milestone, helping more than 250 Monterey County pet owners by providing more than $220,000 in total assistance.

Through it all, the foundation has given Klein a way to help lessen the guilt and heartbreak of other pet owners who might have to allow their pets to suffer, or may need to euthanize or surrender them because of financial circumstances.

The donation is part of Monterey Peninsula Foundation’s ongoing mission to enhance the quality of life in Monterey County and surrounding areas through the strategic disbursement of charitable funds generated by hosting two golf tournaments, the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and the PURE Insurance Championship.

With close to 80 years of expertise in managing golf events and charitable giving, Monterey Peninsula Foundation focuses on creating positive community change across Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito counties. Find out more about the foundation at www.montereypeninsulafoundation.org.

For more information on Max’s Helping Paws Foundation, or to volunteer or donate to the cause, visit www.maxshelpingpaws.org

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

Gil Basketball Academy Player Profile Eduardo Rodriguez

Eduardo Rodriguez is only 17, but has already learned one of life’s great lessons.

Salinas, CA, June 04, 2020 - Eduardo Rodriguez is only 17, but has already learned one of life’s great lessons.

“I don’t see failure as failure, but as lessons that will help me improve and grow,” he said.

He learned that by playing basketball, and by being accountable as a teammate. Any loss, or setback, became a learning experience, an opportunity to practice techniques and perfect performance.

“Without basketball I wouldn't be the person I am today,” said Eduardo, a senior at Alisal High School and 10-year member of Gil Basketball Academy.

One such setback occurred during his sophomore year when he tore a ligament in his left elbow during a football game. Fear and uncertainty followed.

“The anxiety increased when I learned that my tear required surgery,” he said.

Although the surgery was successful, he had to undergo physical therapy for 10-12 months in order to get his full range of motion back. “My will was tested when it came to healing,” he said. “I was in constant pain. I wore a cast, making it difficult to feel comfortable when learning or doing homework. School was also a challenge because it was difficult to open my locker and get my books, typing on my computer with only one arm.”

He also lost out on a season of sports.

“I fell into a depression because I felt that I had lost a part of my identity,” he said.

Surrounded by his family, his friends and his teammates, Eduardo learned about unconditional support.

“Because of this, I was able to succeed academically and athletically, resulting in a speedy recovery,” he said. “I learned to appreciate the simple tasks in life and I learned to develop mental toughness and grit. And I became a stronger athlete and an even better student.”

During his senior year, the 5-foot, 8-inch shooting guard was especially good behind the 3-point line. Eduardo started playing at age 5, winning numerous awards along the way, including earning a place in the Central Coast All-Star game and earning all-star status at Michael Jordan’s basketball camp in Santa Barbara.

Beyond all those achievements, Eduardo has built so many memories away from the court. Through GBA he’s traveled to far-flung places, from Las Vegas to New Zealand to Italy and more.

“Basketball has taught me many life lessons,” he said. “It has taught me how to work with people and have good communication, since you play with a team not just by yourself.”

GBA also stressed the importance of an education (it helped that Eduardo’s parents serve on the GBA board).

“My parents have always told me about the importance of an education because it’s what changed their lives for the better,” he said. “They have shown me that with a college degree I can achieve a better life with better job opportunities.”

Eduardo will attend UC Davis straight out of high school. He plans to study Cinema and Digital Media, with an eye toward a creative career in video editing and production.

When he leaves, he will feel good about helping others in his hometown of Salinas.

“Another opportunity that GBA gave me was being able to be a mentor to the youth of GBA by being a coach,” he said. “Helping these young kids has taught me how to be more patient. Through GBA I learned the importance of giving back to your community in order to make it a better place.”

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

Balance Physical Therapy urges Monterey County residents to keep moving, reduce stress, stay safe

We’ve all spent much of springtime indoors, sheltering in place and often losing track of time.

Monterey, CA, May 03, 2020 - Balance Physical Therapy would like to remind us to take a peek outside. The days are getting longer and warmer — which means summer is right around the corner.

As sheltering restrictions relax, the timing couldn’t be better to plan outdoor activities and events with friends and family. It’s more important than ever to find a balance for summer fun, which means maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Get up and move

During the summer, the most important step you can take toward fitness is the first one out your front door.

“Learn to adapt. We are humans, which means that our superhuman strength is that we are adaptable, we're malleable, we can learn new things,” said BPT founder and CEO Dr. John Farahmand. “We can adapt to new environments and new circumstances. These are certainly new and uncertain times but if you look inside yourself, you'd realize you have a tremendous capacity within you to adapt to anything. And it all starts with the way that you think!"

Exercising comes with a lot of perks for your body, mind and mood. There are plenty of ways to stay physically active. Walking, gardening or biking all provide great opportunities for summertime fun in the sun. Not only do such activities improve physical health, but they also benefit brain health. Physical activity improves cognition, quality of life, reduced depression, reduced anxiety and improved sleep. Just 150 to 300 minutes per week of moderate-intensity or at least 75 minutes of high-intensity aerobic exercise shows substantial health benefits.

Outdoor exercise is also a convenient way to get a daily dose of natural vitamin D through sunlight. Studies show that getting a sufficient amount of vitamin D is important for normal growth and development of bones and teeth, as well as improved resistance against certain diseases.

Remember, the outdoors belongs to all of us, and there are no membership fees. You don’t need any special equipment. It’s available wherever you are — just outside your door.

Manage your stress

Stress comes in all forms, regardless of the time of year, but these extraordinary times have really heaped on extra anxiety.

Stress can directly affect your physical and emotional health. Too much stress can cause unhealthy lifestyle choices, depression and anxiety. Some stress management tips from Dr. Farahmand include:

Exercise: Any type of exercise (walk, run, bike, body weight exercises) will, and you don't need fancy equipment to get in a great workout!

Relaxation: Try disconnecting from the outside world periodically throughout the day by putting down your electronic devices for a bit.
Mediation or deep breathing exercises: Find a quiet place and take as little as 10 minutes to focus on your breathing (deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth)

Eating a balanced diet: Think about what you're eating and why you're eating it! Now is a great time to try some new recipes or ingredients you've never cooked.

Taking a break: Don't forget to take time in your day for yourself

Time management: With many of us working from home, our kids not in the classroom, and not seeing our friends as much, take time to have a balance between all three.

Stay hydrated

Up to 60 percent of your body weight is water. Every cell, organ and tissue uses water to function properly. Water helps get rid of waste, keeps your temperature normal, lubricates joints and protects tissues.

If the body does not have enough water, it can lead to dehydration. Signs of dehydration include weakness, low blood pressure, dizziness or dark colored urine. Water intake is especially important during the summer months when the temperatures are warmer.

Get enough sleep

Are you getting enough sleep? If not, you are missing out on an important way for the body to recover and repair tissues and organs. At least seven hours of sleep each night is recommended by sleep researchers. Sleep deficiency is common, especially in times of stress, and can lead to detrimental consequences. Lack of sleep can cause irritability and decreased motivation toward work, exercise and eating properly. Long-term effects raise the risk for chronic health problems including obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease.

BPT is here for you

Everyone needs to stay moving to stay healthy. If you want expert-level physical therapy care without having to risk the safety of leaving your own home, Balance LIVE is here to help. In addition to our Life In Motion Executive Healthcare Service, our providers also offer E-visit appointments so you can keep moving and living your best life. To get started, visit the BPT website at www.balancept.com or give our team a call today at (831) 422-4782.

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

Everyone’s Harvest announces CSUMB grad Karen Gomez as new market program manager

Everyone’s Harvest serves more than 2,000 families each week through certified farmer’s markets in Salinas, Marina and Pacific Grove.

Marina, CA, May 30, 2020 - Everyone’s Harvest serves more than 2,000 families each week through certified farmer’s markets in Salinas, Marina and Pacific Grove. And now it has a new market program manager to help coordinate it all.

Karen Gomez is the newest team member at the nonprofit that serves diverse communities and low-income individuals.

Gomez graduated last year from CSU-Monterey Bay with a degree in Collaborative Health & Human Services and an interdisciplinary concentration of Public Administration/Nonprofit Management and Community Health. She is now pursuing her master’s degree in Public Administration at San Jose State University.

Gomez has been involved with various nonprofits for the past few years, and has enjoyed being able to apply the skills and knowledge she learned in school to real world challenges. She hopes to continuously help her community and make a difference. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, hiking and taking spontaneous trips. She can be reached at karen@everyonesharvest.org.

The mission of Everyone’s Harvest is to provide access to healthy, affordable fruits and vegetables through certified farmers’ markets and community food programs. The vision is to ensure every community has access to a fair and sustainable food system. For more information on Everyone’s Harvest, visit www.everyonesharvest.org.

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

Gil Basketball Academy Samuel Gil-Silva

When your parents sacrifice everything to start a basketball academy with the goal of teaching local youth how to become healthy, productive and contributing members of the community, you play ball. No questions asked.

Salinas, CA, May 29, 2020 - When your parents sacrifice everything to start a basketball academy with the goal of teaching local youth how to become healthy, productive and contributing members of the community, you play ball. No questions asked.

Samuel Gil-Silva was handed a basketball at age 4. It’s a family tradition — cemented after Jose Gil and Eva Silva launched Gil Basketball Academy more than a decade ago.

“It is normal for me for everyone to play ball because we have grown up around it,” said Samuel, now a 14-year-old freshman at Alisal High School, where his father Jose Gil serves as varsity head coach.

Samuel took to the game quite naturally. The 5-foot-7 shooting guard/small forward played in the prestigious Central Coast All-Star Game the past two years. His first year on the high school team he won the Coach’s Award as his Trojans finished the season unbeaten at 24-0.

“Being a part of the game, in general, has helped me become a greater person,” he said. “It also helps with collaboration skills as well as patience. Basketball showed me the possibilities that I would have if I put time and effort into it.”

Samuel has seen first-hand how participation in sports has helped the youth of Salinas. “Basketball has helped me not get into trouble inside and outside of school growing up,” he said. Being a member of GBA is also “a way for people to go places and explore the world.”

Through GBA, Samuel has traveled to Mexico, Italy, Las Vegas, Reno, Costa Rica, Hawaii, Dominican Republic, and even New Zealand. “I have met many people that live in those countries and I saw how fortunate I was to have what I have,” he said. “If I never played basketball I would have never been exposed to the outside world.”

Samuel was exposed to Gil Basketball Academy from the beginning, and realized early on that it was about more than the game of basketball. The larger goal of GBA is to empower local youth by developing their athletic skills, leadership, work ethic and world view while exposing them to life beyond Salinas.

“It opens doors for everyone,” he said.

After high school, Samuel plans to pursue an education at a four-year university to study acting or film production.

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

Gil Basketball Academy Player Profile Jordan Montero

Playing basketball has taught Jordan Montero many life lessons, but the one that really resonates involves character

Salinas, CA, May 28, 2020 - Playing basketball has taught Jordan Montero many life lessons, but the one that really resonates involves character: “Anyone can be good at sports, but not everyone is a good sport.”

The 5-foot, 3-inch power forward/shooting guard plays for Everett Alvarez High School and on a select team for Gil Basketball Academy. She has participated in tournaments all over the Bay Area and as far away as Las Vegas.

“Basketball is one of the greatest things that has happened to me,” said Montero, 16. “Basketball, and especially being part of GBA, has really shaped who I am. It’s not only about basketball drills, they also teach character.”

Just being a member of a team has shown Jordan the values of listening, discipline and compromise.

“Volunteering with GBA at camps and on Monday night Academy Nights have really pushed the lesson of giving back,” she said. “I could share the knowledge they so readily gave me with the future generations of kids. Without GBA, I couldn’t imagine where I’d be, but let alone what kind of person I’d be. I don’t think I’d be nearly as thoughtful or considerate of others without basketball to begin with.”

The 10th grader lives in Salinas, the oldest of six kids.

“Life is never boring or dull,” she said. “My immediate future plans are simple, all I want to do is go to a good college.”

GBA has also taught Jordan the importance of education.

“It has extreme value to me,” she said. “I dream of the day I get to go off to college knowing that everything will be OK.”

Jordan will be the first person in her family to attend college, a fact that has really motivated her.

“I plan on working really hard in high school right now so I can go to the best college possible for me,” she said.

Montero credits GBA with opening a variety of doors in her life.

“I never knew some were possible for me,” she said, “from free basketball camps at Stanford, to more educational opportunities like a STEM program for women in science. GBA has introduced me to people willing to help me in basketball and with education. And for that I am truly grateful.”

Jordan also credits basketball with helping her overcome serious issues such as anxiety and low self-esteem.

“It took so long to even make progress to be where I am today,” she said. “And I’m still working on it, but things always get better. And they’re getting better one day at a time.”

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

ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay Offers Free Retesting For Every Positive COVID-19 Antibody Test

ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay, which had been conducting almost 100 COVID-19 antibody tests daily at its Monterey facilities, is now offering free confirmation testing to anyone who receives a positive lab-based antibody test starting May 28th.

Monterey, CA, May 29, 2020 — ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay, which had been conducting almost 100 COVID-19 antibody tests daily at its Monterey facilities, is now offering free confirmation testing to anyone who receives a positive lab-based antibody test starting May 28th.

With FDA authorized antibody testing increasing in availability and accuracy, more tests are being performed every day. As testing advances and matures however, best practices are also emerging to ensure that individuals, physicians, and employers get results that they can understand and rely upon.

Follow up testing serves as both confirmation to verify the accuracy of the original positive result, as well as a second data point to follow the progress of an individual’s immune response. By offering this follow-up testing to all antibody positive clients at no additional charge, ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay is continuing to expand access and pioneer best practices for COVID-19 exposure testing for residents and employers in Monterey County.

If you have had a positive antibody test from ARCpoint Labs and want to be retested for free, contact ARCpoint at (831) 324-0772 or at www.labtestmonterey.com.

ARCpoint is currently offering two versions of the lab-based COVID-19 antibody test: a single antibody test which detects only the long-term antibody IgG; and a triple antibody test which looks for IgM, IgG, and IgA to get the most complete and reliable information.

MEDIA CONTACT: Marci Bracco Cain, (831) 747-7455

Media note: ARCpoint Co-Owner and Labs Lab Director Spenser Smith is available for media interviews. Please contact Marci Bracco Cain at (831) 747-7455 to set up an interview.

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

Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro Opens in Carmel Plaza

The owners behind Monterey’s Alvarado Street Brewery have decided to rebrand their third location, Yeast of Eden (located in the Carmel Plaza) to Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro.

Carmel, CA, May 28, 2020 - The owners behind Monterey’s Alvarado Street Brewery have decided to rebrand their third location, Yeast of Eden (located in the Carmel Plaza) to Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro. This comes at a time when restaurants are preparing to reopen for dine-in service for the first time since March, and many small business owners have reformulated their approach to surviving in a post Covid-19 world.

Deeply rooted in the Monterey Peninsula, the Alvarado Street brand has expanded into a globally recognized, world class brewery achieving prestigious national and international awards, helping put the Monterey Peninsula on the map for craft beer fans. The initial brewpub in Monterey was founded in 2014 and was followed by the establishment of a production brewery and taproom in Salinas in 2016. Yeast of Eden, the name of Alvarado Street’s barrel aged sour beer project, was chosen as the name of the owners’ third location, which opened in December of 2018 in Carmel Plaza. According to Co-Owner and Brewmaster J.C. Hill, “the Yeast of Eden brand will continue producing wild & sour beers at our Salinas location, while the focus of the Carmel brewpub will be mainly hoppy beers; IPAs and the like, as well as lagers and progressive R&D batches that we can scale up into cans at our Salinas location. We will be pouring everything we make at our Monterey & Salinas locations as well and will be offering cans of beer to go. We routinely come out with 3-4 different beers in cans each week, so it’ll be nice for Carmel locals & visitors alike to be able to access these fresh, fun beers.”

Executive Chef Steven Patlan’s Carmel menu will blend California coastal cuisine with a regional twist, sourcing as many local ingredients as possible. A variety of mouth-watering burgers & sandwiches can be expected along with daily specials that are designed to pair with fresh beer made on-site. His roots

growing up in the Central Valley gave him a knack for smoked barbeque, which will be the main special every Saturday and includes low & slow cooked baby back ribs, tri tip, hot links & chopped pork shoulder. Sunday will feature a seafood boil with choices of local Dungeness crab, Mexican white prawns, and Louisiana crawfish (flown in fresh the day before) served with sweet corn, fingerling potatoes & smoked andouille sausage.

Final details of food offerings are still being developed as Monterey county restauranteurs await guidelines from local officials to reopen for dine-in service, but regardless, Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro will open for curbside takeout of food and beer starting Wednesday, June 3rd. Hours of operation will be 3 to 8 pm, Wednesday & Thursday, and 12 to 8 pm Friday through Sunday. Mondays & Tuesdays will be closed, but the owners hope to resume operation on those days once normal occupancy levels are permitted in restaurants, later in the reopening process.

Alvarado Street’s newly branded location in Carmel-by-the-Sea is uniquely positioned for outdoor dining, with an expansive patio in the Plaza’s courtyard that will see tables safely distanced at a minimum of six feet away from one another. The restaurant’s owners and management are working diligently to take all precautionary measures from the state and CDC guidelines to ensure a safe dining environment for patrons and employees alike.

Carmel Plaza Suite 112 May 27, 2020
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
Contact: Wendy Walker, 925-286-8661
wendy@alvaradostreetbrewery.com

Alvarado Street Brewery & Bistro is located on the courtyard level of Carmel Plaza, on the Northeast corner of Mission Street and 7th Ave. in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Curbside pickup is accessed through the entrance on Mission Street, and an online ordering platform with menu offerings can be found at www.asbcarmel.com. Call in orders can be placed at 831-293-8621. You can follow Alvarado Street’s Bistro location on Instagram and Facebook at @asbcarmel. Call in orders can be placed at 831-293-8621. For more information please contact Wendy Walker at wendy@alvaradostreetbrewery.com

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

The Clement Palo Alto Opens June 1

Unparalleled Service in All-Inclusive Luxury. Visit Our Website (http://www.theclementpaloalto.com/)

Palo Alto, CA, May 28, 2020 - Experience all-inclusive luxury including breakfast, lunch & dinner delivered to your door.

Enjoy your one bedroom suite with Matouk linens, Frette towels & robes, bath amenities by ODE from McEvoy Ranch, 65' Samsung IPTVs, Nespresso Vertuoline Coffee machines, stocked in-room refrigerators, bathrooms with soaking tubs and separate shower.

The following protocols are in place to ensure that your Clement Palo Alto experience can be enjoyed with piece of mind, knowing that your health and safety are our top priority.

GUEST PROTECTION

We ask that all Guests please follow all CDC Covid-19 guidelines.
Masks should be worn while in public areas, The Clement Palo Alto has a limited supply of disposable masks available, so Guests are encouraged to bring their own masks with them.
Hands should be washed frequently.
Personal hand sanitizer will be provided thru sanitizer stations which will be placed throughout the property for Guest use.
Social distancing should be followed; please keep a minimum of six feet distance.

EMPLOYEE PROTECTION

All Employees are trained in and are following all CDC Covid-19 guidelines.
Employees will wear masks and gloves when working with Guests.

PUBLIC SPACES

Will all be frequently cleaned and sanitized per the AHLA Stay Safe protocols and CDC guidance.
Hand sanitizer stations will be placed throughout the property.
Social distancing guidelines are in place for Guests and Employees

LODGING

Guest suites are cleaned and sanitized prior to your visit using ALHA Stay Safe protocols.
Housekeeping Service Options:
Housekeeping Limited Service: Room is cleaned upon request when guest is out of room.
Housekeeping Daily Drop Service: Requested items will be dropped at the Guest's door.

DINING

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner are Room Service only.

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

Back-to-Work COVID-19 Testing Packages Available at ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay for Local Businesses and Companies

All COVID-19 testing performed at ARCpoint Labs is FDA-authorized by the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA), and is performed in credentialed Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA)-certified laboratories.

Monterey, CA, May 26, 2020 — ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay, the foremost lab doing COVID-19 testing in Monterey County, is now offering local companies and businesses COVID-19 testing so they can be prepared for phased-in back-to-work orders from the state.

ARCpoint now has back-to-work packages to help businesses open safely, implement preventative measures and instill confidence in employees that they will be safe when they go to work and that consumers will be safe when they go to these businesses. All COVID-19 testing performed at ARCpoint Labs is FDA-authorized by the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA), and is performed in credentialed Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA)-certified laboratories.

Testing packages, which can be different depending on the type of business and number of employees, can include:

>Three types of testing for COVID-19, one PCR (swab test) that tests for virus itself and two lab-based antibody tests.
>Forms to document the testing.
>Results of tests and explanation of results.
>Sample letter to use for businesses to announce employee testing.
>How to follow up to employees after test results come in.
>Discussion of any follow-up testing that may be necessary.

>On-site and on-call mobile units to perform testing for hiring events, back-to-work testing, or emergency response.

>Expedited turnaround times available.

ARCpoint can also consult with businesses through Zoom video conferencing to go over what's available to them.

The tests administered by ARCpoint are the most accurate and reliable on the market today, according to ARCpoint Lab Director Spenser Smith. Businesses and their employees do not have to have symptoms of the virus or to be referred by a doctor to get the tests. Smith does recommend, however, that business owners and employees consult with their primary care physicians before testing.

"We're not competing with other companies who are preparing businesses to open by offering plans for safe practices, we're coming from the lab perspective, because every reopening needs a testing component," said Smith. "There are not a lot of facilities in Monterey County doing lab tests. Anybody can get a test from us, so working with a lab directly makes it easier and more affordable to include testing in a safe and responsible back-to-work strategy.”

Smith said his lab will not only relay results to employers and their employees, they will explain what different results mean, and offer best practices on how to use results to make fact-based decisions to enhance employee and customer safety.

"It's a delicate balancing act between giving results and offering advice," Smith said.

Any questions or concerns about such things as preventative measures, contact tracing and quarantining should be directed to the Monterey County Health Department, he added.

Smith said that ARCpoint can also do the testing at a company's place of work, which is convenient for businesses and companies with a large number of employees.

For more information on the Back-to-Work package, call ARCpoint at (831) 324-0772. To make an appointment to be tested, go to: labtestmonterey.com.

ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay is located at 24560 Silver Cloud Court, #103, in Monterey. ARCpoint Labs is an independently owned ARCpoint Labs business, part of a Greenville, South Carolina-based franchise.

Smith said ARCpoint is now offering two versions of the lab-based COVID-19 antibody test: a single antibody test which detects only the long-term antibody IgG; and a triple antibody test which looks for IgM, IgG, and IgA to get the most complete and reliable information.

(Note: Antibodies are produced by the immune system to fight antigen like SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. IgM refers to those antibodies that are produced immediately after an exposure to the disease, while IgG refers to a later response. IgG generally confers protection to a patient so far as a particular virus is concerned. IgA is an antibody that plays a crucial role in the immune function of mucous membranes, such as the lungs, sinuses, stomach, and intestines. The amount of IgA produced in association with mucosal membranes is greater than all other types of antibody combined.)

ARCpoint is also offering the so-called RT-PCR tests (also known as a rRT-PCR test), which involves a nasal swab to test for the coronavirus itself.

ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay, which Smith started with his family in 2018, is one of more than 100 diagnostic testing lab franchises across the U.S. It has partnerships with leading medical labs around the country, allowing it to offer cutting-edge testing solutions from many labs for any need, including the latest and most reliable COVID-19 testing available.

Some of the antibody tests that have been rushed to the market have experienced unreliable results, but Smith said he is confident that the newest COVID-19 antibody tests offered by the lab, which have achieved FDA authorization, are of high quality.

"Independent scientific studies performed around the country continue to show that, while antibody testing is not perfect, it does provide valuable information for individuals as well as for leaders and public health officials to make decisions," Smith said. "The latest FDA-authorized tests authored by such companies as Abbott and Roche have been showing accuracy characteristics that truly take antibody testing to the next level of reliability and usefulness."

Turnaround time for the results of the tests remains 3-5 days, but may be expedited, Smith said. The new lab-based COVID-19 antibody tests could change the way people and businesses are reacting to the pandemic, providing a path toward normalcy for Americans.

Media note: ARCpoint Co-Owner and Labs Lab Director Spenser Smith is available for media interviews. Please contact Marci Bracco Cain at (831) 747-7455 to set up an interview.

ABOUT ARCPOINT LABS
ARCpoint Labs is a full-service national third-party provider and administrator of accurate, reliable, and confidential diagnostic testing for individuals, companies, and legal and healthcare professionals. ARCpoint Labs has been in the drug and alcohol testing business for over 18 years, and our staff has over 60 years of combined industry experience. ARCpoint Labs has over 100 locations across the country with an additional 18 locations slated to open within the next 12 months. For more information on ARCpoint Labs, visit www.arcpointlabs.com.

ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay is an independently owned ARCpoint Labs business, part of a Greenville, South Carolina-based franchise. The Smith family of Monterey, brothers Spenser and Bryant and their parents Belle and Randy, established the company in 2018.

ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay
24560 Silver Cloud Court, #103 Monterey, CA 93940
Phone: (831) 324-0772
Email: monterey@arcpointlabs.com
Website: www.arcpointlabs.com
COVID-19 Appointments: labtestmonterey.com

> On-site and on-call mobile testing units for hiring events, routine testing, or incident response.

> Rapid turnaround times available.

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

Gil Basketball Academy Player Story Christian Soto

Just ask 16-year-old Cristian Soto, who realized early in life that obstacles provided him a chance to practice courage and perseverance.

Salinas, CA, May 25, 2020 - We can learn a lot from our obstacles. Just ask 16-year-old Cristian Soto, who realized early in life that obstacles provided him a chance to practice courage and perseverance.

Soto’s first big challenge happened in the third grade when he broke his ankle.

“It was tough because I was in a cast for three months and that prevented me from doing the things I loved to do,” he said. “My ankle was so weak that I never thought I’d be the same. But I kept building the strength back and came back stronger.”

Today, the 10th grader at Alisal High School is a 6-foot, 2-inch power forward, and a member of Gil Basketball Academy. Through the years he’s earned three MVP awards.

“Basketball really helped me in my life,” he said. “It helped me realize that your team is like another family. They have your back and help you get through tough times. And as the years go on, you build stronger relationships with all your teammates and coaches.”

Basketball helped Soto overcome another challenge — when his family moved from the bright lights of Las Vegas to Salinas five years ago.

“The transition from Vegas to Salinas was hard for me,” he said. “When we first moved here, I didn’t know anyone and had a hard time making friends. I’m kind of shy, too, so that made things harder for me. I wanted to move back but I couldn’t just leave. So what I did was be more open and try to fit in, and that helped me to make friends.”

Soon after moving to Salinas, Soto joined GBA, which made a profound difference in his life.

“Gil Basketball opens up a lot of stuff for you,” he said. “It gives you the opportunity to play the game while learning new things to enhance your game and become a better player. Once you join GBA, you become part of the family and your relationship never dies.”

Soto enjoys a big family at home, living with his parents and three sisters. After graduating from Alisal High School, he plans on attending a four-year university and pursuing a degree in the medical field.

“Preferably in sports medicine,” he said. “In my family, education is very important. Both my parents went to college and earned a degree. They want the same thing from me, so they always push me to get good grades.”

Looking back now, breaking his ankle taught Soto perseverance, dedication and positivity. Moving from Las Vegas to Salinas taught him that nothing is as bad as it seems initially. Opportunities can appear out of nowhere.

“Without basketball, I wouldn’t be at the same school and I wouldn’t have been able to build all the relationships that I have today,” he said.

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

Summer of Seclusion

Book A 30 Day Rental With Sanctuary Vacation Rentals Safe contact less check in; properties open and spacious!

Monterey, CA, May 22, 2020 - Book A 30 Day Rental With Sanctuary Vacation Rentals Safe contact less check in; properties open and spacious!

Plan Your Perfect Vacation
Travelers have more options with vacation rentals. With so many families working from home we know you probably have a desire for a ‘change of scenery’ and we don’t blame you. Enjoy all the family friendly amenities available with renting a vacation home such as backyard b-ques, movie night, and cooking together. With vacation rentals, guests can plan their ideal getaway by selecting a home that has everything in a location that suits them. You can even bring your furry friend as many homes are pet friendly. Most homes offer monthly rentals perfect for parents working remotely or secured as a flexible weekend getaway.

Don’t Sacrifice Privacy and Save Money
What’s your perfect vacation rental? Weather it is a short walk to a quiet beach, or a home so close you can fell the ocean breeze. Maybe your perfect rental is close to the town center and just steps to quaint shops and amazing restaurants or away from it all in a more secluded area. No matter your preference you are sure to find the perfect place for your family with Sanctuary Vacation Rentals.
Vacation rentals provide more privacy. Renting a home typically provides guests with their own bedroom, bathroom and seating area. So, when it’s time to unwind, they have a personal, dedicated space. Vacation homes are great for families because parents can put kids to bed, then watch a movie or spend time together, without worrying about disturbing children.

When compared to other types of accommodations vacation rentals provide much more value and flexibility in living spaces that allow families to remain connected safely.

Live Like a Local
Rental homes provide the comforts and luxuries of home because they are a HOME. Our vacation rentals come stocked with everything you need at no additional cost. We take great pride is setting up our homes for your comfort. Our motto is- All the amenities of a five-star hotel with the comforts of home. The kitchen and dining areas have cookware, utensils and dishes. Guests may also find board games, books and DVDs in their rental. They also have the freedom to bring their own entertainment to enjoy it at no charge. No more paying for movies or flipping channels trying to find something to watch.

Most rental homes are also equipped with washers and dryers, so guests can clean laundry. This is especially helpful if you prefer to pack lightly or are relaxing with us for an entire month, or two. In some homes, guests also have private hot tubs, pools and outside seating areas, perfect for relaxing with loved ones. In a vacation rental, travelers feel more at home and also feel a sense of connection and local pride because they become part of the community during their stay.

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

Goodwill Central Coast’s e-Commerce Team Back in Action and Shipping New Items Daily While Feeding Into Nonprofit’s Mission Of Creating Jobs

Once again, there’s a buzz of activity on the top floor of the Goodwill Central Coast headquarters on Moffett Street in Salinas as Goodwill’s ecommerce team opens up operations again, listing and shipping new items daily.

Salinas, CA, May 22, 2020 — Once again, there’s a buzz of activity on the top floor of the Goodwill Central Coast headquarters on Moffett Street in Salinas as Goodwill’s ecommerce team opens up operations again, listing and shipping new items daily.

Monterey County officials gave Goodwill formal permission to open again on April 30, and, on May 4, the operation began with a manager, assistant manager and four department heads. Three days later, 12 other full-time associates who had been furloughed were recalled.

“We are working on new enhancements in our ecommerce operations daily and expect a larger and more convenient process for our customers soon,” said Alan C. Martinson, Goodwill Central Coast vice president of retail.

The e-commerce team sorts through the most coveted donated items to put up for sale at shopgoodwill.com. The website, which opened in July 2017, represents the first e-commerce auction platform created, owned and operated by a nonprofit. Goodwill designed the virtual marketplace to provide an engaging online shopping destination that would further the Goodwill mission.

“It fits our mission, reinvesting in jobs,” said Martinson. “It’s effectively a job creator within a job creator.”

Shoppers enjoy what Goodwill calls “guilt-free retail therapy,” knowing every purchase supports job training programs and promotes reuse, keeping items out of landfills and reducing the need for scarce natural resources.

Martinson hand-picked the team, store associates with experience and a sharp eye who could cull specialty items from the tons of donations, separate them, tag them, photograph them, process them, upload them, and ship them — all in one facility.

The Salinas team shipped 400 to 500 items each day, from gold jewelry to clothing, musical instruments and more, before the pandemic forced operations to close. At its height, jewelry and books were the biggest sellers on the site.

Goodwill’s Mission

Goodwill Central Coast builds lives, families and communities by helping people with employment needs become successful, supported by innovative enterprises that preserve earth’s resources.

About Goodwill Central Coast
Goodwill Central Coast, a private 501(c)3 non-profit 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 over 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 13,000 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.

Goodwill Central Coast
1566 Moffet Street
Salinas, CA 93905
(831) 423-8611
https://www.ccgoodwill.org

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

Interim Inc.’s Supported Education and Employment Services (SEES) Program Earns Coveted CARF Three-Year Accreditation

Interim, Inc. has earned a three-year accreditation from an independent nonprofit organization that provides accreditation services worldwide, for its Supported Education and Employment Services (SEES).

Salinas, CA, May 19, 2020 — Interim, Inc. has earned a three-year accreditation from an independent nonprofit organization that provides accreditation services worldwide, for its Supported Education and Employment Services (SEES).

CARF International (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) awarded accreditation after a survey in March.

“SEES is surveyed by CARF every three years, it gives us the opportunity to improve our services and to ensure that we are meeting clients’ needs,” said SEES Program Director Idalia Matthews. “This year’s survey took place on March 5 and 6. Two surveyors from CARF participated. The preparation for the survey takes time and takes a village to make it happen!”

CARF International is an independent nonprofit organization that provides accreditation services worldwide at the request of health and human services providers. Providers that meet their rigorous standards in the areas of rehabilitation of a disability, treatment for addiction and substances abuse, home and community services, or other health and human services have demonstrated that they are committed to be among the best available.

To achieve CARF accreditation, the program must demonstrate conformance to the applicable CARF standards as evidenced by observable practices, verifiable

results over time and comprehensive supporting documentation.

CARF noted in their accreditation decision that Interim “provides quality employment planning, job development and job coaching services to clients who report high levels of satisfaction with the services provided. Interim has strong, longstanding partnerships with Monterey County Behavioral Health Bureau and the California Department of Rehabilitation, which are the foundation for the collaborative approach to service provision. Interim provides a multitude of services to address both the immediate and long- term needs of clients and the community as a whole.”

Interim’s SEES program provides a wide range of opportunities for adults with mental illness who are seeking employment or who are interested in pursuing higher education. To help clients obtain work, SEES provides career, vocational, and educational counseling, job development and coaching. SEES also improves educational opportunities by helping clients access classes and training programs at local colleges.

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

About Interim, Inc.
Interim, Inc. is a private nonprofit organization that provides a unique combination of support services, housing and 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.

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

San Lorenzo Valley Water District Gets Information on Groundwater Levels and Goals for Future Groundwater Levels in Santa Cruz County at Santa Margarita Groundwater Agency Meeting

With the rainy season behind us, the focus of San Lorenzo Valley Water District is now on future groundwater levels as we head into the drier summer months.

Boulder Creek, CA, May 19, 2020 — With the rainy season behind us, the focus of San Lorenzo Valley Water District is now on future groundwater levels as we head into the drier summer months.

For the District groundwater is the primary source of drinking water for residents from June through October when surface water flow is low during drier months. Rainfall is the main source of recharge to the basin and surface water flows. The groundwater basin is shared by users, including the District, Scotts Valley Water District (SVWD), and Mount Hermon Association, as well as local businesses and residents using private wells.

The Santa Margarita Groundwater Agency (SMGWA) at its Board of Directors meeting in April held an informational session that centered on groundwater levels and the agency’s goals for future groundwater levels. The District is one of three member-agencies that make up the SMGWA, along with the SVWD and the County of Santa Cruz.

The session examined the Santa Margarita Basin and its four primary aquifers: Santa Margarita aquifer, Monterey formation, Lompico aquifer and Butano aquifer. The session identified the unique characteristics of each aquifer and its particular set of users.

• The aquifer closest to the surface is the Santa Margarita. It is about 100 feet thick, on average, and is the most vulnerable to fluctuations in climate conditions. That means it recharges the fastest during periods of rainfall, but also depletes the most quickly during dry times or when lots of pumping occurs. The District and most private well owners draw water from this aquifer.

•The next aquifer down is the Monterey formation, which is not a true aquifer and a very few wells pump from it. It is a clay layer found in limited areas of the basin.

•The third layer down, the Lompico aquifer, is a main source of supply for local water districts. It is generally found around depths of 500-700 feet below the surface.

•Finally, the Butano aquifer is deepest and occurs at around 1,000 feet below the surface of the valley floor. Currently, only the Scotts Valley Water District extracts water from this aquifer.

The aquifers aren’t evenly deposited throughout the basin, according to Georgina King of Montgomery & Associates, who gave the presentation to the SMGWA. Rather, the underground bowl-shaped basin supports varying levels and depths of each aquifer in different areas. The deeper layers are exposed to the land surface in the upgradient of hillsides, which are the principal recharge zone for these aquifers.

Evaluating groundwater levels is one of the state-required elements of the Sustainable Management Criteria (SMC) in the Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP). As a required element of the GSP, the SMGWA board must set minimum thresholds for groundwater levels in the basin as well as measurable objectives to ensure the basin’s sustainability. The board provided input on the significant and unreasonable conditions that will be used to develop a draft qualitative statement for board review.

The SMGWA’s board meeting was held April 23, included time for public comment and participation on each agenda item, and was conducted via all-remote, web- and phone-based access due to the Santa Cruz County Shelter-in-Place Order response to the coronavirus outbreak.

If you are interested in learning more about the SMGWA or the District’s involvement visit www.https://smgwa.org/. The next SMGWA Board of Directors meeting will be held on May 28th at 5:30 p.m. The meeting Agenda and any supplementary materials will be made available www.https://smgwa.org/ as they are generated by staff. Due to the circumstances regarding the ongoing shelter-in-place orders all Agency meetings will be held in an exclusively remote-access format until further notice.

About the San Lorenzo Valley Water District
The San Lorenzo Valley Water District was established in 1941 as an independent special district. The District is governed by a five-member Board of Directors, elected at-large from within the District’s service area. A special district is a local government agency formed by voters to perform a needed service, such as water or sewer. The District’s boundaries comprise approximately 60 square miles and 190 miles of pipeline. The District currently provides service to approximately 7,900 residential, commercial, and institutional connections. The District relies on both surface water and groundwater resources, including nine currently active stream diversions, one groundwater spring, and eight active groundwater wells. The District owns, operates, and maintains two water systems from separate water sources. These sources are derived solely from rainfall within the San Lorenzo River watershed.

The District owns, operates, and maintains a wastewater system in Boulder Creek’s Bear Creek Estates, which serves approximately 56 homes.

Website: slvwd.com
Phone: (831) 338-2153
Fax: (831) 338-7986
Emergency Numbers:
After-hour emergencies: (831) 338-2153

Address:
San Lorenzo Valley Water District
13060 Hwy 9
Boulder Creek, CA 95006

About the Santa Margarita Groundwater Agency
Santa Margarita Groundwater Agency (SMGWA) is a Groundwater Sustainability Agency (GSA) that was formed as a Joint Powers Authority in June 2017. It has three member-agencies: Scotts Valley Water District (SVWD), San Lorenzo Valley Water District (SLVWD), and the County of Santa Cruz (County) and is governed by the Board of Directors comprising of two representatives from each member agency, one representative from City of Scotts Valley, one from City of Santa Cruz, one from Mount Hermon Association (MHA) and two private well owner representatives. The Board of Directors holds monthly meetings that are open to the public. The staffing support and funding for the agency is provided by the member agency.

Under the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act of 2014, overdrafted groundwater basins need to be sustainably managed by a GSA through the development of a Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP). The GSP must be completed by 2022, and the basin must reach sustainability by 2042.

The three agencies, SVWD, SLVWD, and Santa Cruz County, are committed to working with each other and engage other stakeholders in forming a GSA and developing a GSP after the state approves the boundary modification request.

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

Twenty-two Interim Inc. Clients Find Housing at Innovative New Moon Gate Plaza Apartment Complex in Salinas’ Chinatown

Moon Gate Plaza apartments in Chinatown in Salinas opened in January, benefitting 20 of Interim Inc.’s homeless clients.

Salinas, CA, May 19, 2020 — Moon Gate Plaza apartments in Chinatown in Salinas opened in January, benefitting 20 of Interim Inc.’s homeless clients.

The $40 million housing project, a collaboration between MidPen Housing and the Central California Alliance for Health, is a 90-unit mixed-use housing complex with a particular emphasis on low- and extremely low- income households and the homeless.

The complex connects housing and health services for the highest users of the healthcare system, with 20 supportive apartments set aside for that population and another 20 set aside for clients of Interim Inc., Monterey County’s leading provider of adult mental health services and support. The other 50 apartments will provide housing for other low-income residents of Monterey County.

Through a collaboration of local nonprofit organizations, the ground floor of Moon Gate provides a vibrant space that incorporates arts, health and wellness, culture, and educational programming to serve all Chinatown neighborhood residents.

The complex includes a community room with a kitchen, a courtyard with community gardens, bicycle storage, a library and a multi-purpose room. Interim has an agreement with MidPen Housing for 20 of the units to house homeless clients with mental illness. The tenants for the remaining 70 apartments were determined by a lottery of qualified applicants. Two other Interim clients were chosen for apartments in the lottery.

One of the first residents of Moon Gate was Interim client Junior Rangel, who moved in on March 16 from Interim’s Shelter Cove transitional housing. He says that his studio apartment on the third floor is safe and quiet. He is getting to know his neighbors.

“I like that I have an apartment where pets are allowed. I got a puppy. Her name is Diana and she’s a corgi/chihuahua mix,” said Rangel. “The building has a place where I can walk her and get exercise.”

Since many Moon Gate residents have a history of homelessness, some will need to relearn how to budget their income, how to cook healthy meals, and other skills to live successfully in the community. With an office space on the third floor, Interim counselors will provide individualized service plans, assessments, case management and care coordination for these residents.

“The partnership between Interim and MidPen has been fantastic for the referred residents,” said MidPen Leasing Director Daniel Fagan. “The timely action and follow-up by Interim led to the placement of 20 residents. The MidPen and Interim teams communicate and collaborate regularly to better serve the residents, which in turn will likely lead to stabilized housing for the residents and the community as a whole.”

Financing for the $40 million development was provided by the City of Salinas, the Housing Authority of the County of Monterey, the California Tax Credit Allocation Committee, the Central California Alliance for Health, the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco, and Bank of America Merill Lynch. Dahlin Group Architectural Planning was the architect and the contractor was Ausonio, Inc. MidPen Property Management Corp. will provide onsite professional property management.

About Interim, Inc.
Interim, Inc. is a private nonprofit organization that provides a unique combination of support services, housing and 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

Gil Basketball Academy Natalie Cortes

When Natalie Cortes first picked up a basketball in the fifth grade, she found even the simple act of dribbling the ball extremely difficult.

Salinas, CA, May 19, 2020 - She almost gave up the sport that first day. But she refused to give up — a trait that became a huge part of the 14-year-old’s personality.

“After many years of practice and determination, not only did I learn how to dribble, but I also learned how to do many other skills, too,” she said.

Once she joined Gil Basketball Academy, she fell in love with the game, but at one point almost had to give it up entirely.

“My parents couldn’t afford me playing basketball in GBA Select because we had too many other things going on,” she said.

So Natalie took it upon herself to email her father’s boss to explain the situation. “Because of that I got sponsored so I was able to play again,” she said.

A freshman at Alisal High School, Natalie lives in Salinas with her parents, 12-year-old brother and two 6-year-old twin sisters.

A 5-foot, 2-inch point guard/shooting guard, Natalie has learned so much from basketball.

“It has helped me gain so much,” she said. “For example, being part of a team for all these years has shown me the value of teamwork, hardwork and determination, and paying attention to every detail. This has helped me in my life to become a better person mentally and physically.”

Through GBA, Natalie has learned the value of education, and her goal is to attend a university on scholarship. Her career choice? “I don't know what it is yet, but one thing I do know is that an education will get me places in the future.”

Natalie credits Gil Basketball Academy for helping her on and off the court.

“Overall, GBA has opened so many doors for me regarding basketball. Thanks to GBA, I was recruited by NCSA (Next College Student Athlete), which I unfortunately didn’t join for many reasons,” she said. “They helped me not only to gain more expertise in basketball, but to become a better person.”

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

El Pajaro Community Development Corporation Serves Up 38 Family Meals to 228 Farmworkers at First Family Dinner Initiative

Thanks to the community’s kindness and generosity, El Pajaro Community Development Corporation was able to offer 38 family meals to 228 people recently as part of its first Farmworker’s Family Dinner initiative.

Watsonville, CA, May 16, 2020 — Thanks to the community’s kindness and generosity, El Pajaro Community Development Corporation was able to offer 38 family meals to 228 people recently as part of its first Farmworker’s Family Dinner initiative.

“We started the Farmworker’s Family Dinner initiative to honor our communities’ farmworkers and to give each of them a ‘break’ from cooking dinner for one night,” said El Pajaro CDC Executive Director Carmen Herrera Mansir. “We figured that after a 12-plus-hour day of very hard work under the sun, having someone else make a warm and delicious meal for the whole family is a great treat.”

The first week’s dinner was made by Cuevas Express Food and RoguePye.

The program also helped increase sales for food entrepreneurs who have experienced a drastic drop in revenue due to the COVID-19 crisis. Some of the entrepreneurs are not eligible for the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) that Congress passed on March 27, 2020, or other relief programs. These are families that lost 75-100% of their income.

“Thanks to the success of this initiative, our team decided to make the Farmworker’s Family Dinner an ongoing program,” said Herrera Mansir. “Our goal is to provide 10 family dinners every night from Monday to Saturday. I hope the community will continue to support us. Please share this opportunity with your friends and network.”

Farmworkers and their families were ecstatic about the dinner:

“Our workers were very happy, they were in awe, they felt pampered!” said Javier Zamora, owner of JSM Organics farm. “Our H-2B Visa workers could not believe they were getting such a big and delicious meal. Everyone loved Esthela Cuevas’ food.”

Zamora loved the food so much that he is now planning to hire the Cuevas family (of Cuevas Express Food) to make meals for JSM farm workers.

“My wife is going to be sooo happy because she will NOT have to cook tonight,” said Gabino, a sole breadwinner and father of four who works at JSM.

El Pajaro farm-partners Zamora and Rogelio Ponce at Sun Valley Farms, both small local farmers, donate the delicious organic strawberries used to make El Pajaro’s house-branded strawberry jam. (Available online at: https://epcdc.square.site.)

In addition, Herrera Mansir expressed her gratitude to Cesario Ruiz, El Pajaro’s Kitchen Program Manager, and Izuyah Sanchez, kitchen assistant, for making this dinner “magic” happen.

To help support the Farmworker’s Family Dinner, go to: https://epcdc.square.site/product/farmworke-s-family-dinner/21?cs=true

For questions about the initiative, call El Pajaro Community Development Corporation at (831) 722-1224 or by email at info@elpajarocdc.org

About Pajaro CDC
In 1979, El Pájaro CDC was formed following widespread community support of under-represented Latino and Spanish-speaking business owners in Watsonville. For 40 years El Pajaro has helped budding entrepreneurs throughout the Central Coast by offering technical, legal, financial and managerial assistance.

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

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

In 1997, El Pajaro Plaza Vigil a retail business incubator at 23 Beach St. in downtown Watsonville was created to assist low- to moderate-income, Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs with starting and operating a successful business.

Plaza Vigil houses dozens of businesses, with another 44 food purveyors using the separate Commercial Kitchen Incubator Program, a fully equipped, shared-use facility at 412 Riverside Drive.

Following a charter expansion in 2007, El Pájaro CDC serves Santa Cruz, Monterey and San Benito counties. Bilingual and bicultural services businesses development services and trainings are available to anyone with plans to open or expand a small business in the region.

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