Gil Basketball Academy Basketball Drills and Instructional Videos Now Available on YouTube

Due to restrictions necessitated by the pandemic, in lieu of in-person instruction, Gil Basketball Academy has posted a number of instructional basketball videos on YouTube. 

Salinas, CA, October 30, 2020 — Due to restrictions necessitated by the pandemic, in lieu of in-person instruction,  Gil Basketball Academy has posted a number of instructional basketball videos on YouTube. 

The videos cover all aspects of playing basketball, including both individual and team drills on offense, defense, shooting, dribbling, passing and rebounding, footwork and handwork. Most of the videos are between 2 and 4 minutes long, with detailed instruction from Coach Jose Gil, co-founder of the academy. 

Access to the videos is free at https://www.youtube.com/user/GBASalinas.

About Gil Basketball Academy

Gil Basketball Academy was founded by Jose Gil and Eva Silva in 2009, with the goal of providing local boys and girls ages 4-17 of all skill levels the opportunity to learn and play basketball. The Academy, which averages 400 attendees annually, offers regular basketball camps, clinics, field trips, world tours and individual one-on-one sessions that teach youths the skills and techniques of shooting, passing, dribbling, rebounding, and defense. They are coached by Jose Gil and other qualified and experienced volunteer coaches. The Academy’s “home court” is the gym at Alisal High School, where Gil is the Athletic Director. 

Although one of the primary goals of the Academy is to teach youth about every facet of the game of basketball, the larger goal is to teach local youth how to become healthy, productive, and contributing citizens of their community by exposing them to life beyond Salinas by offering tours to other countries. So far the academy has taken trips to New Zealand, Italy, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Mexico and Hawaii, and plans are underway to visit Peru, Miami and Colombia. 

Gil Basketball Academy

1522 Constitution Blvd., Suite 213,

Salinas, California 93905

(831) 905-1155

https://gilbasketballacademy.com

 

Contact:

Marci Bracco Cain

Chatterbox PR

Salinas, CA 93901

(831) 747-7455

https://gilbasketballacademy.com

Dynamic athletes, Local coach/Educator fill November ‘Ganas’ podcast schedule for Gil Basketball Academy

 Podcast Episodes Available on Apple 

Salinas, CA, October 27, 2020 — Interviewing two athletes from Stanford University who embrace issues of racial and social justice, along with a frontline coach and educator in Salinas, Gil Basketball Academy offers three new “Ganas — Leading from the Heart” podcasts for November. 

Designed to inspire today’s youth through unique views and perspectives on life, “Ganas” (which translates to “desire”) is recorded live from the family garage of Jose Gil and Eva Silva, co-founders of the academy that promotes the sport of basketball in East Salinas through camps, clinics, individual sessions and elite travel teams. But more than that, GBA builds confidence and character in a membership that exceeds 450 local kids ages 4 to 17. 

The “Ganas” podcast officially launched on Sept. 14, with past episodes available on Apple, or through the GBA website at www.gilbasketballacademy.com. 

On Nov. 2, Episode 6 features top national basketball recruit Isael “Isa” Silva, a dynamic point guard from Jesuit High School in Carmichael who committed to play at Stanford. Embracing his Latino heritage on and off the court, Silva is proud of his Latino heritage. The grandson of a bracero immigrant, he embraces the social media hashtag #wolfway, a nod to how wolves can positively impact the ecosystem around them. 

On Nov. 16, the “Ganas” team will interview track and field sensation Marcus Floyd, a sophomore at Stanford. Born and raised in Middleburg, Fla., Floyd was exposed to systemic racism at an early age. At Stanford he has participated in a number of causes to expose hatred and bigotry while enlightening people about the stark reality of being black in America. Floyd finished his first season as the No. 5 ranked freshman in Stanford history, while pursuing a degree in architectural engineering. 

On Nov. 30, the podcast crew welcomes local educator, coach and super volunteer Amparo Saldana. As a first generation immigrant born in Mexico to a family of 13, Saldana grew up learning daily about struggle and sacrifice. Arriving in the United States at age 8 with the goal of attending college, Amparo graduated from California State University-Fresno in 1999, majoring in Psychology with a minor in Biology. She has been an elementary school teacher, school trustee and a longtime coach and board member for Gil Basketball Academy in Salinas. 

The idea for a podcast grew from Gil’s growing frustration in not being able to completely connect with and inspire his GBA kids during the pandemic. 

“You have to think outside the box,” said the longtime coach and athletic director at Alisal High School. “I was used to having hundreds of kids together at one time, and now I have to figure out new ways to have an impact.” 

While the couple have little experience in media (and none in podcasting), they invested in the technology needed to turn the family garage into a functioning studio. 

“Ganas” podcasts (including video with guests appearing via Zoom) span 30 to 45 minutes, and include topics such as sports, health, fitness, leadership, community and more. 

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

The San Lorenzo Valley Water District (SLVWD) in Conjunction with the State Water Resources Control Board have approved cancellation of the remaining “Do Not Drink-Do Not Boil” in the District’s service area as of Friday, October 23rd

 

The San Lorenzo Valley Water District (SLVWD) today announced that based on water quality samples collected since the August CZU Lighting Complex fires, the SLVWD in conjunction with the State Water Resources Control Board have approved cancellation of the “Do Not Drink-Do Not Boil” notice in all of its service areas. 

Boulder Creek, CA, October 24, 2020 —The San Lorenzo Valley Water District (SLVWD) today announced that based on water quality samples collected since the August CZU Lighting Complex fires, the SLVWD in conjunction with the State Water Resources Control Board have approved cancellation of the “Do Not Drink-Do Not Boil” notice in all of its service areas. Customers may resume using tap water for drinking, cooking, and all other normal uses. 

Newly added cancellation areas (as of 10/23/2020):

Boulder Creek Area: All services west of the Hwy 236/Paone Dr. intersection, including,

West Park Ave, Boulder Brook Dr; Virginia Ave; Ridge Dr. 

Updated maps can be found here. https://bit.ly/2TmP01Y 

See all memos here. https://www.slvwd.com/home/news/cancellation-do-not-drink-do-not-boil-notice-select-areas-10232020 

“We are very pleased to announce today, 10/23/2020 that we are lifting the remaining Do Not Drink-Do Not Boil (DND-DNB) order in the Boulder Creek area including: all services west of the Hwy 236/Paone Drive, West Park Ave, Boulder Brook Drive; Virginia Ave and Ridge Drive. The District’s water supply is non-detect for contaminants from the August CZU Lighting fire. The DND-DNB release occurred sooner than anticipated do to our staff’s tireless work sampling water quality and restoring the water distribution system. With the DND-DNB order lifted, the District can shift all of its focus to repairing the remaining fire damage. There is still a lot of work to do repairing the system and restoring watershed lands. The District won’t rest until we have the system repaired above and beyond its original structure. The Board of Directors and I want to sincerely thank all of our customers for their patience and understanding during this emergency. It is a pleasure to serve such a wonderful community.” – Rick Rogers, District Manager 

About The San Lorenzo Valley Water District

The San Lorenzo Valley Water District is located in the mountains of northern Santa Cruz County. The District serves more than 7,900 metered connections. Established in 1941, the District supplies water to the communities of Boulder Creek, Brookdale, Ben Lomond, Zayante, Scotts Valley, Mañana Woods, Felton and Lompico. For more information, visit www.slvwd.com or www.facebook.com/slvwaterdistrict. 

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

Alvarado Street Brewery Wins Three Medals at the 2020 Great American Beer Festival®

 Mai Tai, Double Cone & Haole Punch recognized for brewing excellence at world’s largest commercial beer competition.

 Alvarado Street Brewery was awarded three medals at the 2020 Great American Beer Festival (GABF) competition, the world’s largest commercial beer competition. The GABF, presented by the Brewers Association, recognizes the most outstanding beers produced in the United States The best beers in 91 beer categories covering 170 different beer styles (including all subcategories) were awarded gold, silver, and bronze medals during a virtual ceremony Friday, October 16, hosted on The Brewing Network. 

Alvarado Street was recognized with honors in three categories. Mai Tai PA, the company’s year-round hoppy offering, was awarded a Bronze Medal in the highly competitive American Strong Pale Ale category among 149 other entries. This is the fourth win for Mai Tai in the last six years at the competition. Additionally, Alvarado’s Double Cone placed top honors for the second year in a row in the Imperial IPA category with a Silver Medal among 166 other entries. Finally, the company’s kettle sour ale made with passion fruit, orange & guava known as Haole Punch received a Silver Medal in the Contemporary Gose category among 81 other entries. 

“We’re over the moon to take home additional hardware at this year’s competition,” said Co-owner & Director of Brewing J.C. Hill. “Especially in such a weird year with the pandemic. It goes to show how dedicated, hardworking, and passionate our brew crew is. I’m incredibly grateful to go to work with these folks every day.” 

Judges for the 34^th edition of the celebrated competition evaluated 8,806 entries from 1,720 breweries from all 50 states plus Washington, D.C. Socially distanced judging took place in 35 sessions over 18 days with strict safety measures in place. 

“This year’s GABF competition may have looked a little different, but the beers entered into the competition were as impressive and innovative as ever,” said Chris Swersey, competition manager, Great American Beer Festival. “This has arguably been one of the most challenging years breweries have ever faced, so we hope these awards serve as a symbol not only of brewing excellence but also the resiliency of the craft brewing community as a whole.” 

For more information on the GABF competition, including a complete 2020 winners list and photos, visit GreatAmericanBeerFestival.com. 

J.C. Hill
831-747-0841
jc@alvaradostreetbrewery.com

 

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

PigWizard Helps Fire Relief and Recovery Efforts by Donating Proceeds of Online Sales of Caramel PorkCorn and Logo Merchandise

 PigWizard is donating 10% of all Caramel PorkCorn and 25% of logo merchandise online sales to volunteer fire brigades — Cachagua, Mid Coast, and Big Sur — and the three families of Cachagua Fire that lost their homes in the Carmel Fire. 

Monterey, CA, October 20, 2020 — PigWizard is donating 10% of all Caramel PorkCorn and 25% of logo merchandise online sales to volunteer fire brigades — Cachagua, Mid Coast, and Big Sur — and the three families of Cachagua Fire that lost their homes in the Carmel Fire. 

"As grateful as I am for Cal Fire and all of the city, state and federal fire agencies that are fighting these fires, my ultimate respect is for volunteer fire stations that are the first responders to most rural emergencies in our area," said the PigWizard, Jonathan Roberts.

Proceeds will be donated through Nov. 15. PorkCorn and logo merchandise can be ordered at pigwizard.com. 

The Sweet Heat Caramel PorkCorn features orange-flavored caramel, crushed red chilies and rice wine vinegar, giving the crispy, crunchy air-fried pork rinds an added zing. The popular original snack, Beer Bacon Caramel PorkCorn, was originally conceived nearly 10 year ago, but is only now going into major production after extensive R&D. PigWizard, aka P-Dub,  is working on two new flavors (Mocha and Maple Ginger), just in time for a four-flavor pack for the holidays.  

To order a 5.5-oz. bag of Caramel Porkcorn ($7.32) and help fire relief efforts at the same time, go to the online ordering page by going to pigwizard.com. 

Limited Media Samples Available

Contact Marci Bracco Cain

marci@chatterboxpublicrelations.com 

About the PigWizard

Jonathan Christopher Roberts began learning butchery at Monte Vista Market in 2000 after moving to California from his home state of Georgia at 19 years old. He had dropped out of high school at 16, began working in kitchens, and quickly realized that to be a better chef, he would have to learn butchery. As a kid growing up, his mom and grandparents always had gardens, and canned and preserved fruits and vegetables, but lacked the same kind of early experience with meat. 

"My family did a lot of fishing, but no one really did any hunting when I was growing up, or raised animals. So I felt my foundations for understanding cooking were lacking in the meat side of the kitchen the most. After a couple of years as an apprentice metal sculptor, I found myself in California, and shortly after moving I was breaking down sides of beef and whole lamb. I loved it." 

PigWizard
32 Cannery Row, STE G
Monterey, California 93940, US
+1 831-641-7316
pigwizard@pigwizard.com

 

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

 

Hofsas House Hotel Announces its Artist-in-Residence Program Launching Dec. 11, 2020, with Art Reception, Live Painting

Cities often inspire art. Anyone who's been to cities like Paris, Rome, or Prague, however, knows that some cities also are art. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, is one such city. 

Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA, October 19, 2020 - Cities often inspire art. Anyone who's been to cities like Paris, Rome, or Prague, however, knows that some cities also are art. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, is one such city. It's no surprise, then, that it's home to a thriving community of artists — a fact that's celebrated front and center at The Hofsas House Hotel. 

The hotel has announced its new Artist-in-Residence program, offering art tours, and has several murals and public displays of art. 

The first Artist in Residence is Marie-Clare Treseder Gorham, a Carmel-based folk artist who incorporates medieval themes and iconography in her work that reflects the style of the California Arts and Crafts movement. Her great-grandfather was William S. Rice, one of the masters of the movement. 

She will make the first of monthly appearances from 4-6 p.m. on Dec. 11 and 4-6 p.m. Jan. 8. 

During the appearances she will showcase her first Artist-in-Residence project of creating a custom headboard and room décor for Room 36, which is a deluxe king room with fireplace, private balcony and ocean view on the street level of San Carlos Street, the same floor as the hotel’s lobby. She will also paint a few characters on the entrance door that will highlight the unique nature of the room. 

The complimentary art-themed reception for hotel guests will include meet the artist, a sneak peek at the current project in which people can watch and ask questions of the artist, plus wine and small bites. 

The inspiration for the Artist-in-Residence program began early in the COVID-19 pandemic. The City of Carmel-by-the-Sea created a campaign to promote solidarity in the village. To honor the town’s heritage as an arts colony, Gorham painted an outdoor mural called “Carmel Shell” which is located on the corner of Mission Street and Sixth Avenue. 

Visitors shared selfies on social media, and Visit Carmel and the local library distributed coloring pages of the mural’s design, with versions hanging in windows for neighbors to see. The campaign fit nicely with a 100-year tradition of artists drawing inspiration from this storybook village. 

No local business fits as well within that storybook as Hofsas House, a uniquely decorated boutique inn owned by a woman and once brought to life by a woman who became one of America's finest artists. 

Located in a quieter part of downtown on San Carlos Street north of Ocean Avenue, the Hofsas House borrows from the fabled Dutch/Bavarian architecture of the 19th century. It just needed a spectacular adornment. 

Enter Maxine Albro (1893-1966), who left a remarkable visual stamp on the village with her work on the hotel. Among few women commissioned under the New Deal's Federal Art Project during the Great Depression, Albro became best known for painting a large fresco at San Francisco’s Coit Tower, depicting agricultural life in California. 

Influenced by the work of Mexican muralist Diego Rivera, Albro moved to Carmel in the 1940s, befriending innkeeper Donna Hofsas, who opened her hotel in 1947. 

To enhance the inn’s Bavarian theme, Hofsas commissioned her friend to adorn the building with a whimsical mural. In addition, Albro painted three works now hanging in the lobby, along with the colorful, elaborate headboard in Room 47. (Guests often request that room as part of the “Get Artsy Package.”)  

Today, Hofsas House retains its charm, with help from its pronounced pink exterior and Albro’s mural. Managed by Hofsas’ granddaughter Carrie Theis, the inn cherishes Albro’s work as a familial legacy. 

“We appreciate the work by Maxine to bring more character to Hofsas House,” Theis said. “She adds to the artistic history of Carmel.” 

A pet-friendly hotel, Hofsas House is located eight blocks from the picturesque Carmel Beach and one block from a child-friendly city park. It has 37 uniquely decorated, spacious rooms, many with ocean views. Other amenities include: continental breakfast, heated swimming pool, dry saunas, off-street parking, and free wireless Internet access. For more information, visit www.hofsashouse.com

 

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

Sales at Cinnamon Shore South ‘Next Phase’ Event Prove High Demand for Luxury Real Estate on the Texas Coast

 With unprecedented sales at its Next Phase event over Columbus Day Weekend, Cinnamon Shore Realty proved once again that there’s a strong demand for luxury living on the Texas Coast. 

Port Aransas, TX, October 16, 2020 — With unprecedented sales at its Next Phase event over Columbus Day Weekend, Cinnamon Shore Realty proved once again that there’s a strong demand for luxury living on the Texas Coast. 

A sister to the original Cinnamon Shore development nearby, Cinnamon Shore South is a master-planned, New Urban community on the Gulf, and it’s sprouted into its own robust, coastal village. The brand-new section almost sold out in just two days, as Cinnamon Shore Realty revealed great pricing on 35 new homes sites, 11 charming cottages, and 10, larger beach homes already under construction. Every cottage, almost every single home, and half of the home sites sold over the Columbus Day weekend. 

“It’s always gratifying to connect families with their beach homes, and the Cinnamon Shore lifestyle elicits a strong response among people who love the coast,” said Jodi Peters, broker at Cinnamon Shore Realty. 

At the Next Phase Reveal, buyers vied for the opportunity to build on their favorite sites, and many wrote contracts on the spot for homes with blueprints they couldn’t resist. Some of the plans can now be modified to work on other available home sites at South. If homebuyers want to design and build their own home, they may work with their own architects to present plans to the town planner and architectural review board. “It’s the master plan of Cinnamon Shore that preserves the integrity and charm of our community,” Peters said, “and it’s the great design and details in our homes and community that attract families and investors to our town.” 

Another new phase will be released in coming months. In the meantime, those still interested in the remaining lots from the Columbus Day Weekend event can contact Cinnamon Shore Realty at 361.749.1851 or jodi@cinnamonshore.com. “We have many more inquiries to respond to this week, and we really expect this new phase to sell out in just a few weeks,” Peters said. 

Record Sales at Cinnamon Shore 

Buyer interest has been high in 2020, with 65 properties sold by summer’s end. With the brisk sales at South over Columbus Day Weekend and very little inventory available at North, it’s clear that Cinnamon Shore has found a ready segment of second home buyers in Texas. They’re coming primarily from Texas metro areas, within two-and-a half to five or six hours driving distance. “People are looking closer to home for their family vacation spot, and Cinnamon Shore offers something that hasn’t been available on the Texas Coast for very long—a community with a quality architecture, sophisticated interiors, small-town charm, and resort amenities,” Peters said. 

With 150 Gulf-front acres and a thoughtful masterplan, Cinnamon Shore South is about three times as large as 63-acre Cinnamon Shore North, which was established in 2006. South broke ground in Fall 2018 and already has more than 25 homes completed or under construction. It centers around a 7-acre lake; a resort pool complex; and its own Town Center.

 To view a digital flipbook that showcases the Next Phase and many of the cottages and homes that sold, click here. For a map of available properties at South, click here. For more, reach Cinnamon Shore Realty at 361,749.1851 or jodi@cinnamonshore.com. 

Drop Box Link To High Resolution Photos

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/rpdv5mamoodcchw/AAA-Z0R19vbGWJ8MZykiX980a?dl=0 

MEDIA INQUIRIES: To learn more about Cinnamon Shore South and its expansion, contact Marci Bracco at 831-747-7455 | marci@chatterboxpublicrelations.com          

About Cinnamon Shore

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

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

 

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

Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa Adds Two Dog Suites with Pet Fees Benefitting Local Non-Profit, Max’s Helping Paw’s Foundation

 Unique for every visitor, Hyatt Regency Monterey is a destination to discover your passions, the outdoors and each other—a place where you escape to connect. 

Monterey, CA, October 14, 2020 - WHO: Nestled in the Monterey Pines minutes from scenic Route 1 awaits Hyatt Regency Monterey. Here, guests will uncover an authentic Monterey experience: energized and inspired by the area’s coastal beauty, 22-acres of grounds yearning to be discovered and an abundance of on-site experiences to keep everyone entertained. Unique for every visitor, Hyatt Regency Monterey is a destination to discover your passions, the outdoors and each other—a place where you escape to connect. Features include 560 guestrooms including 32 suites, and the President’s house, Knuckles Sports Bar, Central Coast Provisions, a 3,000 square foot fitness facility, spa, tennis courts, pools and whirlpools.  The hotel is located at 1 Old Golf Course Road in Monterey, California. For information call (831) 372-1234 or visit https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/california/hyatt-regency-monterey-hotel-and-spa-on-del-monte-golf-course/mrydm 

WHAT: Embracing a “have dog, will travel” philosophy, Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa encourages dog-loving guests to forgo the pet sitter and point the car toward Monterey.  

Special touches aren’t restricted to just people. Here, our furry friends are welcomed and spoiled with the Monterey Mutts program. 

The hotel announces the addition of two new dog suites. What’s more, the hotel will donate all of the $100 per-pet fee to Max’s Helping Paws Foundation, a Monterey County nonprofit that believes financial circumstance should never decide a companion pet’s fate. Because of that, Max’s Helping Paws Foundation reduces economic euthanasia, surrender and suffering of severely ill or injured pets by providing pet owners assistance with the costs of urgent medical care. The promotion is valid through December 2021. 

A reservation for either pet suite includes special “suite treats” for furry friends to live it up in the lap of luxury. Guests can expect a cozy pet bed, a bowl and local organic treats. What’s more, pampered pooches have access to The Barking Lot, an exclusive Hyatt play zone for dogs and their well-behaved owners. 

Whether unwinding poolside, sharing a round of golf on a legacy course or greeting the sunrise in downward dog pose, Hyatt Regency Monterey invites guests to take a timeout from their normal lives. To appreciate the beauty all around them. To savor the small things. To cherish the company of others. 

It’s in these moments that guests find the space to reconnect — to nature, to relationships, to the rich history of Monterey and to their passions. It’s where guests escape to connect. 

WHEN: Launch Date Tuesday, October 13th 

CHARITY PARTNER: Max's Helping Paws Foundation (MHPF) was co-founded in 2016 by Dyana Klein and her husband and veterinary internist, Dr. Jonathan Fradkin, in memory of their pet, Maximillian. 

The foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that supports all Monterey County veterinary practices to provide financial assistance to clients with pets in need of both critical short-term or longer-term care for chronic illness.  Since it first started providing financial assistance in mid-2017, MHPF has approved more than $300,000 in financial assistance, and has helped hundreds of pet families give their pets a second chance. MHFP is based in Monterey County and serves only Monterey County. Max’s Helping Paws Foundation (831) 704-6473  info@maxshelpingpaws.org 

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

 

Fire Safe Council For Monterey County presents Wildfire and You

An online workshop, to help seniors and people with disabilities prepare for wildfire.

Monterey, CA, October 13, 2020 - The Fire Safe Council For Monterey County and Wanda Vollmer of Peace of Mind Preparedness have developed a free workshop, Wildfire and You, to help inform everyone in Monterey County, including the County's seniors and those with disabilities and their relatives, friends, and caregivers, how they can prepare for wildfires before they start, to help protect lives and homes.

Wildfires have become an increasingly unnerving fact of life in California, and can pose great risks to anyone — however, recent wildfires have disproportionately taken the lives of seniors and those with disabilities. 

The Wildfire and You workshop takes about 30 minutes to complete and can be taken at any time at no cost by going to this web page and following the simple instructions  www.firesafemonterey.org/workshops.html. 

Over 100,000 of Monterey County's residents live in the county's rural areas, which encompass about 1.6 million acres in County jurisdiction, largely covered with hazardous accumulations of wildfire fuels. 

Fortunately, the recent wildfires in Monterey County have taken place during relatively benign weather conditions, without the unprecedented high winds experienced during recent wildfires in other counties.  As bad as the losses and destruction were from recent wildfires in Monterey County, it could have been much worse.

There is still an opportunity to work to prepare Monterey County for wildfire, but that opportunity could end on any summer day with hot windy conditions.  Best is to work to prepare now, without delay. 

Development of the Wildfire and You workshop was funded with a generous grant from Community Emergency Response Volunteers of the Monterey Peninsula (CERV) and Listos California. 

The focus of the Wildfire and You workshop is to help Monterey County residents prepare their property for wildfire by creating effective defensible space, reducing wildfire fuels, and by home hardening, helping homes and communities withstand the impacts of wildfires and safely evacuate when needed.

About the Fire Safe Council For Monterey CountyFire Safe Council For Monterey County is a tax-deductible 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to protecting lives and property from harm by wildfires, and to educating the public on wildfire dangers and how to reduce them. It supports projects that help make homes, neighborhoods, and communities fire safe by management of natural and man-made resources. Learn more at www.firesafemonterey.org 

About Peace of Mind Preparedness

Wanda Vollmer's company, Peace of Mind Preparedness makes the point that, "… our comfortable world is not a given, nor a right, and our responsibility to ourselves, our loved ones, and our employees is to anticipate and prepare," and helps teach you how to do that.  Learn more at https://peaceofmindpreparedness.com/. 

About Community Emergency Response Volunteers of the Monterey Peninsula 

CERV of the Monterey Peninsula is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization with a mission to support local CERT programs, build public awareness about emergency preparedness, and promote the community's capacity to respond to natural disasters and man-made emergencies.  Learn more at www.cerv501c3.org/. 

About Listos California

Listos California says, "Be Ready to Protect Your Loved Ones in Case of Emergencies and Natural Disasters. Stay Informed and Save Lives."  Learn more at www.listoscalifornia.org/.

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

Humbled: How California’s Monterey Bay Escaped Industrial Ruin

 Readers can learn more about Humbled in a series of online book talks hosted by the Monterey County Historical Society. 

Nonfiction, 348 pages, 47 photos and illustrations

Vista Verde Publishing, September 2020, $28.00

ISBN 9781735109206

(eBook planned for release in the near future)

————————————————————————————————————

Readers can learn more about Humbled in a series of online book talks hosted by the Monterey County Historical Society. Church and McKenzie will discuss the book, their research, and why they wrote it on Saturday, Oct. 17, at 3 p.m., on Wednesday, Nov. 18 at 7 p.m., and on other dates yet to be determined. During these talks, the authors will donate to MCHS 25 percent of the proceeds from every book ordered from vista-verde-publishing.com. To be included in the Zoom event, email mchs@redshift.com.

 

For author interviews: gwchurch@gmail.com or (831) 722-0819

Review copies of the book available on request; to read Chapter 1, go to

vista-verde-publishing.com 

About the book

Today, Monterey Bay is a place of beauty and natural splendor, and is protected by federal law as a national marine sanctuary. It’s hard to believe that in the 1960s, plans called for a major industrial complex to be developed at the midpoint of the bay, starting with a refinery that Humble Oil intended as a linchpin of its West Coast operations.

The building permit sought by the powerful company became the focus of a bitter and protracted conflict that divided the region. Most people in Monterey County wanted the jobs and economic stability that big industry would bring. But a vocal minority fought back hard against the industrialization of the bay. The Monterey County Board of Supervisors approved the permit, but ultimately Humble would never start construction.

The controversy was one of the first major battles of the modern environmental movement, and garnered state and national attention, including coverage in the New York Times. It was a critical turning point for the Monterey Bay, home to hundreds of species of sea life, marine mammals and birds.

This slice of Central Coast history is examined in detail in the new nonfiction book Humbled: How California’s Monterey Bay Escaped Industrial Ruin, by Glenn Church and Kathryn McKenzie (Vista Verde Publishing, 2020).

Church and McKenzie chronicle the Humble affair, starting with plans in the 1950s designating the tiny fishing village of Moss Landing as an industrial center, through the events of 1965-1966 when Humble applied for a permit to build a refinery. The project was turned aside through a concerted effort by environmentalists, farmers, and other residents who felt a refinery would irreparably damage the region’s air and water quality. It also documents the political wiliness of local politicians who simply outfoxed Humble, one of the world’s biggest corporations. Just how this was accomplished makes a fascinating read that is like a textbook for environmental activism.

The book recalls some of the personalities who wrangled over the issue, such as Monterey County Supervisor Tom Hudson, known for his flamboyant antics and love of back-room deals; State Senator Fred Farr, who rose above personal tragedy to fight for the bay that he loved; and famed photographer Ansel Adams, who became a public and outspoken opponent of Humble Oil.

The book began when Church and McKenzie began reading through notes and papers of the late Warren Church, a former Monterey County Supervisor and Glenn’s father, who played a prominent role in the controversy. That led to more than a year of research that revealed the entire picture of exactly what made Humble turn away from Moss Landing.

Humbled can be ordered from vista-verde-publishing.com, at local bookstores, and from major online booksellers, including Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Authors’ bios

Glenn Church and Kathryn McKenzie both grew up in the Monterey Bay area and have a deep love and appreciation for the land and the environment. Church, a farmer and businessman, has written extensively about politics and has been active in environmental and international human rights issues. McKenzie, a Monterey Bay area journalist and environmental writer, has been working for newspapers and magazines for more than 35 years, most recently Voices of Monterey Bay, Health Matters and Edible Monterey Bay.

They have been married since 2017, and make their home in North Monterey County on California’s Central Coast. This is their first book. 

Advance praise for Humbled

 The Humble Oil incident was the most consequential political battle in our area’s modern history, and people need to know how these events saved local agriculture and preserved the natural beauty of the Monterey Bay for generations to come.

                       —  Congressman Sam Farr (Retired)

 A sweeping epic chronicling circumstances and events that would have ruined the ecology of our region, were it not for the concern and vigilance of those who cared.

                      — James Perry, Monterey County Historical Society executive director

 It’s hard to imagine what the Monterey Bay — now a national marine sanctuary — would look like today if locals hadn’t taken a stand against Humble Oil in the 1960s. It was a time before “environmental activism” was a term, but the until-now unsung heroes in this story were prescient enough to see disaster looming if they didn’t take action. Humbled shows how a few determined souls changed the course of history, and it should inspire all of us to keep fighting for environmental justice today.

                      — Julia Reynolds, author of Blood in the Fields: Ten Years Inside California’s Nuestra Familia Gang

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

Goodwill Central Coast Awarded Grant From Santa Cruz County to Help Underserved With Training and Transitioning to Full Employment

Goodwill Central Coast has been awarded a substantial grant from Santa Cruz County to help in its efforts to find employment for individuals who have identified mental health and/or substance use disorder after they leave the criminal justice system. 

Salinas, CA, October 10, 2020 —  Goodwill Central Coast has ben awarded a substantial grant from Santa Cruz County to help in its efforts to find employment for individuals who have identified mental health and/or substance use disorder after they leave the criminal justice system.

Shelby Mason, Director of Workforce Development Services of Goodwill Central Coast in Santa Cruz County, was informed by the Santa Cruz County Probation Department that Goodwill was awarded the $400,000, 2.5-year grant that would fund a position at Goodwill that would help those individuals in employment training and transitioning to full employment.

“It’s very exciting. It’s going to have a pretty big impact,” said Mason, who has been working with Goodwill employment re-entry programs since she joined Goodwill of Silicon Valley in 2013. “I was excited (to hear of the grant) because working with re-entry is my passion. It’s so rewarding to see success happening every day.”

According to the Santa Cruz County Probation Department, the focus of the grant for the CAFES (Coordinated Access for Empowering Success) program “is on those with first-time and low-level offenses who have traditionally been underserved and who don’t qualify under other programs and initiatives. CAFES will include diversion opportunities; restorative justice engagement; clinical assessment and access to mental health and substance use disorder treatment; assertive case management; housing and stability support; and coordinated staff training for evidence-based practice.”

CAFES includes a Court Case Manager to provide coordination and support for collaborative court participants (Behavioral Health Court, Veterans Court, PACT Court, Re-entry Court). Mason and her staff will work under the day-to-day direction of the Collaborative Court Manager.

 Mason said Sara Jamison of the Probation Department knew of her re-entry work with AB109 and Prop 47 at Goodwill, so when the grant opportunity came up, she informed Mason of the grant and encouraged her to apply for it. 

The grant is coming at an opportune time for Goodwill, because of the coronavirus pandemic, operations have been disrupted and positions have been lost. Mason said the grant is a “foot in the door” to help keep re-entry services alive. 

Ironically, it was Goodwill that put Mason on her career path and into work that was rewarding for her. 

“It’s funny because all through college I couldn’t decide what I wanted to do for my career,” she said. “It was hard for me to find a job and career in 2013. And the interview I had with Goodwill was the hardest I had ever been in. I got to a point where I told the interviewer, ‘Listen, I just need an opportunity.’ I ended up getting the job and helped develop and design the New Opportunity Work Program, a subsidized work program for folks returning from jail or prison. Thanks to Goodwill and someone giving me a chance, I found my passion.” 

Mason was Director of Re-Entry Programs at Goodwill of Silicon Valley from 2013 until 2018 before moving to a similar position with Goodwill Central Coast. A resident of Monterey, where she lives with her partner Katelyn and two children, Mason is from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, but grew up in the San Jose area. 

She has a bachelor’s degree in psychology and Spanish from Clarion University of Pennsylvania, and just received her MBA from CSU Monterey Bay this summer. 

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. Information: www.ccgoodwill.org.

 

Contact:

Marci Bracco Cain

Chatterbox PR

Salinas, CA 93901

(831) 747-7455

http://www.ccgoodwill.org

New book ‘The Good, the Bad, the Mother-in-Law’ Explores Emotion-packed Family dynamics of Age-Old Relationship

Not quite family but rarely ever friends, the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law relationship has tension built into it from the start. 

Monterey, CA, October 06, 2020 — Not quite family but rarely ever friends, the mother-in-law and daughter-in-law relationship has tension built into it from the start. In her book “The Good, the Bad, the Mother-in-Law,” Monterey author Kenis Dunne offers funny, quirky, real-world accounts from this age-old battleground. 

Detailing a collection of stories ranging from dastardly and outlandish to humorous and loving, Dunne covers the mother-in-law journey from engagement and wedding to the pitter-patter of grandchildren. 

Described by one reviewer as “a must-read for mothers and daughters-in-law who wish to learn the value of communication, respect and seeing things from one another’s perspective,” the book blends real life lessons with guest commentary. The book’s themes touch on generational communication, taming the need to control, and pitfalls to avoid. 

Purchase the book directly through the author’s website at www.kenisdunne.com, online through Amazon or through select local bookstores. 

Media Interviews Available : Books Available for Review

Contact Marci Bracco Cain Marci@ChatterboxPublicRelations.com or call (831) 747-7455 

About the author

Kenis Dunne has spent her career working with words, starting as a journalist writing for community newspapers and then moving into various forms of communication for Bay Area high-tech companies, including Cisco and Micron Technology. Along the way, she and her husband raised three children in Los Gatos. She is a mother-in-law twice over, and a grandmother of three. Kenis and her husband Rob now live in Monterey. 

MIL Book Testimonies

"Have you ever wondered if you are the only daughter-in-law with mother-in-law issues? This funny, quirky book is a must read. Daughter-in-law commentators hold nothing back in Mirror Mirror, Mother-In-Law. You will laugh and grimace, and discover you are not alone." —Moryt Milo, former editor of the Silicon Valley Business Journal 

“Solidly entertaining and poignantly sweet, this book had me gasping at the bad mothers-in-law, laughing with the insightful daughters-in-law, and reminiscing about my own late mother-in-law with warmth and affection.” —Cady McCowin, experienced daughter-in-law 

“I loved this book. It is a combination of lessons, humor, and the best and worst mother-in-law examples. The Wisdom from a MIL Virtuoso story reminded me to forgive, forget and lead with love and maybe sometimes you just have to get out of the way.” —Cindy Small, mother-in-law and grandmother of three 

“This is a book that reminds us to communicate, told in straightforward voices. The grandparenting part particularly resonated with me. I don’t know a new grandparent who wouldn’t benefit from reading this, myself included.  What a great wedding shower or new grandparent gift this would make!!” —Maxine Granadino, mother-in-law and grandmother of three 

“These stories range from downright shocking to surprisingly heartwarming. I was sad to see each chapter end. A must-read for mothers and daughters-in-law who wish to learn the value of communication, respect, and seeing things from one another’s perspective.” —Amanda P., daughter-in-law and mother 

“This book is such a fun read!  I most appreciate the “life lessons” after each story.  They suggest a how-to for each scenario which I found to be quite helpful.” —Jennie B., wife, teacher and mother of one 

“An excellent read, filled with fun ah-ha moments for anyone navigating the trials and joys of marriage, family, becoming a DIL or MIL, and all that it entails.” —Kris Penner, mother-in-law and grandmother of six. 

Contact:

Marci Bracco Cain

Chatterbox PR

Salinas, CA 93901

(831) 747-7455

http://www.kenisdunne.com/

 

 

Mee Memorial Healthcare System to Hold Flu Clinics in King City and Greenfield

There’s never been a more important time to get a flu shot, so King City’s Mee Memorial Healthcare System (MMHS) is hosting free, drive-through flu vaccinations for the community as well as by-appointment (fees may apply) in clinics located in King City and Greenfield. 

King City, CA, October 02, 2020 — There’s never been a more important time to get a flu shot, so King City’s Mee Memorial Healthcare System (MMHS) is hosting free, drive-through flu vaccinations for the community as well as by-appointment (fees may apply) in clinics located in King City and Greenfield. 

DRIVE THRU FLU SHOTS

KING CITY 

Mee Memorial Hospital 

Sunday, Oct 18, 300 Canal Street, Main parking lot, King City 

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. 

GREENFIELD 

Thursday, Oct 29 - Location and time to be announced soon. 

In - clinic flu vaccinations are available by appointment from 2-5 p.m., Fridays, Oct. 2, 16 and 30, as well as Friday, Nov. 13. The King City Clinic is located at 210 Canal St. (831-385-7100). The Albert & Donna Oliveira Greenfield Clinic is at 467 El Camino Real (831-674-0112). Fees may apply. 

It’s likely that flu viruses and the coronavirus will both spread this fall and winter as people begin to move indoors. A flu vaccine will not protect against COVID-19, but there are many important benefits, such as: 

• Reducing the risk of flu illness, hospitalization, and more 

• Saving precious healthcare resources for patients with COVID-19 

Of highest priority for the Mee Memorial Healthcare System (MMHS) is keeping our community healthy. This includes offering an extensive array of medical and preventative services with a commitment to the highest possible standards, the best available technology, and the care of skilled professionals.  

The Mee network includes a hospital in King City including emergency services, 25 acute care beds and 48 skilled nursing beds, and three comprehensive outpatient clinics; two adjacent to the hospital (Adult Medicine and the King City Clinic, for Internal, Pain and Family Medicine) and the Albert and Donna Oliveira Clinic, a full service, primary care facility in the City of Greenfield. 

MMHS is the primary healthcare organization serving the rural communities of Southern Monterey County. Overall, our healthcare professionals serve a population of nearly 80,000 within an area spanning over 55 miles between the agricultural communities of Soledad to Bradley. 

Contact:

Marci Bracco Cain

Chatterbox PR

Salinas, CA 93901

(831) 747-7455

https://www.meememorial.com/

 

'From Farms to Incubators' Exhibition honors Women who merge AG and Tech to Solve Modern Problems

Multimedia exhibition premiers Nov. 12 at National Steinbeck Center 

Salinas, CA, October 01, 2020 - The modern intersection of agriculture and technology has brought to the forefront a diverse generation of women working to overcome rising challenges through new perspectives and solutions. 

A new special exhibition at the Steinbeck Center in Salinas lifts up stories of these innovators to help inspire and encourage young women to consider careers in agtech. 

"From Farms to Incubators: Women Innovators in California Agtech" uses multimedia and digital storytelling - including video, documentary and still photography - to honor these groundbreaking pioneers. The exhibition is the brainchild of Amy Wu an award-winning journalist for women’s ag and agtech movement and the creator of “From Farms to Incubators.” 

“My passion to unearth underreported stories and amplify new voices is what led me to highlight the stories of emerging communities in agriculture,” says Wu. “Ultimately, I hope the exhibition, film series and book serves as vehicles to inspire youth – especially those from rural or underserved communities - to consider that agriculture extends far beyond tractors and overalls and it is a sector that offers an amazing range of opportunities that involve innovation.” 

Michele Speich the Executive Director National Steinbeck Center says: 

“Women for centuries have played a vital role in farm operations across the country and globally. We are thrilled that Amy Wu has chosen to tell the stories of minority women entrepreneurs in Agtech in the Salinas Valley and beyond in a book and in an exhibition at the National Steinbeck Center,” says Speich. 

Presented by the group From Farms to Incubators, the exhibition kicks off Thursday, Nov. 12 with a virtual opening event from 4-6 p.m. PACIFIC TIME, with viewing available through Jan. 12. 

The virtual opening will include special speakers including California Senator Anna Caballero, Dennis Donohue the head of Western Growers Center for Innovation and Technology and Karen Caplan the president and CEO of Frieda’s Specialty Produce, a panel discussion led by leading women innovators in ag and agtech, and a sneak preview of the exhibition and films. 

Attendees have the opportunity to win prizes, including a copy of the forthcoming book "From Farms to Incubators: Women Innovators in California Agtech," telling the stories of women entrepreneurs who use technology to help solve problems ranging from climate change and limited water to uncertainties in immigration policy.  The book will be published in April 2021 under Linden Publishing's Craven Street Books division, specializing in titles on California and the history of the western United States. 

Many of those portrayed are women of color who come from diverse backgrounds, the first in their families to complete higher education. What drew them into the nascent but fast-growing sector of agtech? What caused them to uproot themselves to pursue a start-up dream in an industry that continues to be dominated by men? How are they getting their innovation into the hands of growers? 

The exhibition and the book attempt to answer these questions and create awareness of women leaders and entrepreneurs. 

The National Steinbeck Center in Salinas, Calif., is dedicated to Steinbeck's creative legacy: to participate, to inspire, to educate, and to understand one another. Find out more at www.steinbeck.org. 

“From Farms to Incubators” is a multimedia platform that uses digital storytelling to increase awareness of women leaders and entrepreneurs and their contribution using technology through the agriculture sector, and encourage women to pursue careers in agtech. Find out more at www.farmstoincubators.com 

For more information email Amy Wu at amy@farmstoincubators.com  or call 914-771-1275.

 

Contact:

Marci Bracco Cain

Chatterbox PR

Salinas, CA 93901

(831) 747-7455

http://www.farmstoincubators.com

 

Hartnell College District 3 Trustee Candidate Kari Valdés to Hold Virtual Fundraiser on Sept. 30

 Sip. Savor. Support. Featured Guests: Wine Maker Denis Hoey of Odonata Wines, and Ellie Almond of Zio Brand 

Salinas, CA, September 30, 2020 — Kari Valdés, who is running for Trustee of Hartnell College District 3, will hold a Virtual video conferencing fundraiser Sept. 30, complete with wine, cheese and meats and a guided flavor tours by the winemaker and owner of the meat company. 

The event will be held from 6-7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 30, Virtually, with a goal of 50 tickets sold. Cost is a $99 donation, which includes time with Valdés and her guests Denis Hoey of Odonata Wines, and Ellie Almond of Zio Brand.

 In addition, ticket purchasers will receive two bottles of wine from Odonata Wines (Odonata Stainless Steel Chardonnay and Odonata Sangiovese), salami from Zio Brand Meats & Sausages, and cheese pairing.

 To buy tickets to the fundraiser, go to https://secure.anedot.com/valdes-for-hartnell-trustee-3-2020/sip-savor-support-valdes-9-30-2020-c9a09270c6aae65abbdb7. 

Package pickup will be arranged for the week of the event in Salinas. Delivery arrangements can also be made as needed.  Contact info@karivaldes.com, or call (831) 240-5521. For more information, go to karivaldes.com. 

Valdés will provide an overview of her campaign platform and entertain questions, as well as discussions on  economical impact of COVID, and wine industry impacts based on local grower regions and harvesting schedules. 

Valdés, who has served as Hartnell trustee for three years, and was elected board president by her peer board members, has a long history of active involvement in the partnership between Hartnell and the agriculture industry and is a strong proponent of increased access to education, and has a laser focus on student success through engagement and support. She is experienced in what Hartnell needs today: selecting a permanent President/Superintendent, overseeing fiscal management, contract negotiations, and supporting the growth and expansion of programs and centers. 

Contact:

Marci Bracco Cain

Chatterbox PR

Salinas, CA 93901

(831) 747-7455

https://karivaldes.com/

Kiki Wow Presents...Kindness Monterey Campaign Second Stream of Live Care-A-Thon Online Concerts on Sunday, October 25th at 6-7pm, On Facebook & Youtube

Campaign Helps Restaurants and Those In Need Due to COVID-19 and the Fire Emergencies 

Monterey, CA, September 29, 2020 — Kindness Monterey, a campaign initiated to help individuals in need and restaurants that have been challenged as the result of the coronavirus and fire emergencies, will present its second online Care-A-Thon live concerts on Sunday, October 25 from 6-7pm on Kindness Monterey Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG661XSU4En6yb0ULDJ57_g 

The first online Care-A-Thon concert produced by musician and promoter Kiki Wow successfully raised $5,000 and funds were immediately used to purchase gift cards for fire evacuees. Due to an overwhelming need  a second fundraiser will be held from 6-7 p.m. Sunday, October 25, 2020. The concert will feature local musicians, short video interviews with local restaurant owners, and a call-out to donate to the gofundme campaign. The link to the concert will be available on the website after its initial streaming. 

Musicians confirmed include: Linda Arceo, Dave “Nomad” Miller, Reija Massey, Brad Wilson Trio, Kiki & The Wowettes, Dan & Laurel and the Latin Jazz Collective. 

The concert will be streamed on the Kindness Monterey Youtube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG661XSU4En6yb0ULDJ57_g 

Kindness Monterey, which was launched on July 8, 2020, has expanded its campaign to include a gofundme page, new partners working to get sponsors and donations, and assistance to restaurants wanting to set up gift cards on their websites. 

Kindness Monterey is encouraging local restaurants to join their campaign. KM is making a concerted effort to reach out to all restaurants by in-person visits, email, mail, phone to have them sign on so that they can be listed on the website. Many restaurants that provide gift cards do not have the ability to order them online as a digital gift card, which makes it difficult for the person wanting to send a friend or co-worker a gift card, which is the message of the campaign — to buy a gift card and send it to someone who needs a lift. Sign up at:  http://www.kindnessmonterey.com/sign-up and read about the benefits of being on the kindnessmonterey  website and offering digital cards. 

We are excited to announce a partnership with SeeFood. Roberto Guerrero, founder, has created a mobile website that helps the customer see pictures of food on a menu, instead of just reading about it, showcasing both menus and unique dishes. See food before ordering! Like Kindness Monterey, SeeFood's goal is helping restaurants get more business to survive and one day thrive again during these uncertain times. 

Roberto has spent the last few months visiting many  of the restaurants, interviewing and filming owners to produce 1 to 2-minute videos highlighting their restaurants and allowing them to post to social media or websites. 

SeeFood has partnered with nearly all restaurants in downtown Salinas, some in downtown Monterey and a few on the Wharf, and is now assisting Kindness Monterey in signing up those restaurants on the Peninsula that do not have digital gift card capacity. Roberto has agreed to list participants on his app as well as produce a 2 minute video at no cost to the restaurant owner. Click here to see an example of a video produced for Michael's Grill and Taqueria in downtown Salinas! 

If you are interested in signing up or even if you already have in-house gift card capability, it is important that you are able to offer cards online. We want to support you and our community! For more information please call/contact Roberto Guerrero 831-682-4586, or Annee Martin 831-236-5618. 

Get Virtual (link) 

Now that the students are back in school Kindness Monterey hopes to start soon 

with a CSUMB initiative called GetVirtual.org. GetVirtual gives local businesses affected by COVID-19 the tools to adapt to the virtual landscape and extend their businesses online. Their program pairs local businesses such as restaurants, who need help with online tools like gift cards, with college students who are tech-savvy and want business experience. It's a win-win. Restaurants get help for free and the students get college credit. Kindness Monterey hopes to work with GetVirtual Students to help restaurants develop on line ordering, updating websites and offering digital gift cards 

Collaboration with All-In- Monterey

Kindness Monterey  collaborated with All-in-Monterey a wonderful grass roots organization  who hosts a drive every Wednesday at Seaside High School for hospitality workers who've lost jobs or had hours significantly reduced as well as  fire evacuees. Kindness Monterey  distributed  over 150 gift cards in the past month. Kindness Monterey  plans to work with All- in- Monterey this fall  to do a Holiday drive to raise funds to   offer families in need  a delicious, bountiful holiday dinner from local restaurants. More information to follow. 

Kindness Monterey has teamed up with The American Institute of Wine & Food (AIWF), Monterey Bay Chapter (https://www.aiwfmb.org/ ), which has agreed to be the campaign’s 501(c)3 non-profit fiscal sponsor. Kindness Monterey can now accept donations of $250 or more from corporate sponsors or individuals through their fiscal sponsor — AIWF-Monterey Bay Chapter, and those donating at that level or higher will then be able to get a tax write off. Chef/caterer and cookbook author Mary Chamberlin, Emeritus Chapter Chair/National Vice Chair of AIWF – Monterey Bay Chapter, was instrumental in making this happen. 

Kindness Monterey has also set up a GoFundMe page at: https://www.Gofundme.com/manage/kindness-monterey . You can also access the page with the “Donate” button on the Kindness Monterey website (kindnessmonterey.com http://kindnessmonterey.com/ ) or Facebook page (facebook.com/kindnessmonterey http://facebook.com/kindnessmonterey ). 

The GoFundMe page was set up primarily for individuals to give smaller donations to help fund the campaign as well as for Kindness Monterey to buy gift cards for the hospitality workers affected by loss of job or hours. It will enable the Kindness Monterey team to spread the word about this important program that benefits so many local community members through print advertising and social media. The advertising will urge everyone in the community to go to the KindnessMonterey.com  website https://www.kindnessmonterey.com/  and purchase restaurant gift cards. Please note that any donation under $250 is not tax-deductible. 

For individuals or businesses who do not have a specific person in mind and would still like to make a donation to the Kindness Monterey program, these GoFundMe funds will be used to purchase gift cards for the Food Bank For Monterey County, The Hospitality workers  and other worthy local community members in need. 

Kindness Monterey has also teamed up with marketing and PR professional, Wendy Brickman (https://www.brickmanmarketing.com ), who will reach out to local businesses and individuals to secure sponsorships to help fund the campaign. The campaign needs the support to be able to continue and every donation makes it possible to bring the community together to support our restaurants. 

Sponsorships will allow Kindness Monterey to accomplish five important goals: 

1. Fund its campaign enabling Kindness Monterey to do widespread marketing through social media, print advertising, Constant Contact and various Chamber of Commerce email blasts. 

2. Allow Kindness Monterey to buy restaurant gift cards and distribute them to organizations such as the Food Bank For Monterey County, Chambers of Commerce, small business owners whose companies are being challenged by COVID-19, fire victims, firefighters, first responders, musicians, displaced hospitality workers, including those working in the restaurants, field workers, etc. 

3. Provide matching funds to offer 2-for-1 deals to generate additional sales for gift card promotions. 

4. Allow Kindness Monterey to donate six grab-and-go weekend meals to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Monterey County for every $1,000 raised through sponsorships and GoFundMe.  

5. Fund the two online Care-A-Thon concerts as well as other fundraising events.

The Kindness Monterey campaign was created by local businesswomen Annee Martin and Maren Elwood, and the website, http://www.kindnessmonterey.com  was launched on July 8, 2020. 

The pay-it-forward gift card campaign to help Monterey Peninsula restaurants encourages generosity from the community by purchasing these gift cards to give to family, friends, neighbors, musicians, service providers, small business owners, field workers, frontline medical personnel and first responders. Martin believes that not only are you helping restaurants stay alive and letting them know they are loved and supported by their community, but by paying it forward, you are lifting the spirits and hopes of our entire community. 

Kindness Monterey will continue to provide as long as there is a need in our community. For more information, go to: info@kindnessmonterey.com  , like Kindness Monterey on its Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/kindnessmonterey , or call Annee Martin at 831-236-5618 or Kiki Wow at 831-235-7662. Or, go to the website at: kindnessmonterey.com . 

Contact:

Marci Bracco Cain

Chatterbox PR

Salinas, CA 93901

(831) 747-7455

http://www.kindnessmonterey.com/