San Lorenzo Valley Water District In Process of Completing Two Major Water Tank and Pipeline Projects

The San Lorenzo Valley Water District (SLVWD) is in the process of replacing three undersized and leaking redwood tanks in Lompico, as well as of replacing 3.3 miles of pipeline that were deemed inefficient, ineffective (due to age and size), and undersized for fire flow in Ben Lomond and Boulder Creek.

Boulder Creek, CA, November 24, 2020 — The San Lorenzo Valley Water District (SLVWD) is in the process of replacing six undersized and leaking redwood tanks in Lompico, as well as of replacing 3.3 miles of pipeline that were deemed inefficient, ineffective (due to age and size), and undersized for fire flow in Ben Lomond and Boulder Creek.

New Lewis Tanks in Lompico (Left) and Hillside Drive Pipeline Trench (Right) 

Lompico Tank Project:

The Lompico Tanks Project involves three tank sites with six tanks total that provide the main water storage and service for Lompico and nearby areas, referred to as Madrone, Lewis, and Kaski tank sites. 

The Madrone tank site was completed in November and is now in use. The Lewis tank site has completed construction and is completing water quality sampling before being brought online for use. While the Kaski site is in the process of having its original tanks removed and will begin site grading in early December. 

The tank replacement project was funded through a $2.75 million assessment district as part of the SLVWD/Lompico consolidation project. 

The 5-Pipeline Replacement Project:

The Pipeline Replacement Project will increase the capacity for fire flow and improve water quality in the areas of Boulder Creek (Big Basin Highway - 236, Sequoia Avenue, and Hillside Drive) and Ben Lomond (California Drive and Quail Hollow Road). 

The pipelines in Hillside Drive and Reynolds Drive has been constructed. The final steps of installing service laterals, fire hydrants and air relief valves has begun and should be completed mid-December 2020. 

The pipelines in California Drive have completed the saw cutting of the trench line and potholing of existing services. Construction and installation of the mainline pipeline is in progress and estimated to be competed in January 2021. 

While the pipeline in Quail Hollow Road required additional environmental permitting. The draft Initial-Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS-MND) will open for public review in early December with construction slated for Spring 2021. 

For more information, call (831) 338-2153, or go to www.slvwd.com. 

About the 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.

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

GBA’s December ‘Ganas’ podcast guests include East Salinas Entrepreneur, Top Stanford Hoopster

 

Podcast Episodes Available on Apple Podcasts can be found here (https://gilbasketballacademy.com/ganas-leading-from-the-heart /).

 Salinas, CA, November 24, 2020 - Interviewing a creative entrepreneur from East Salinas and a top basketball recruit from Stanford University who refuses to be distracted by social media, Gil Basketball Academy offers new “Ganas — Leading from the Heart” podcasts for December. 

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 Dec. 14, Episode 9 features East Salinas native Julio Gil, who turned his natural creativity and drive into Central Coast Sign and Design, based in Salinas. The 1993 Alisal High graduate is a model of entrepreneurship for those who call 93905 home. 

On Dec. 28, the “Ganas” team will interview top Stanford basketball prospect and academic honoree Keenan Fitzmorris, who avoids social media altogether to create superior focus. 

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
The Buzz PR LLC
Salinas, CA
(831) 747-7455
http://www.gilbasketballacademy.com

Cyturus Technologies, Inc. launches new website and branding campaign to reflect cutting-edge approach to cyber risk quantification

Top-rated risk assessment firm, Cyturus has partnered with Cyber Theory, a full- service cybersecurity marketing advisory firm, in order to introduce its cutting-edge risk management platform to IT professionals tasked with managing cyber risk and keeping their organizations safe.

Dallas, TX, November 20, 2020 – Top-rated risk assessment firm, Cyturus has partnered with Cyber Theory, a full- service cybersecurity marketing advisory firm, in order to introduce its cutting-edge risk management platform to IT professionals tasked with managing cyber risk and keeping their organizations safe. Cyber Theory provides deep marketing expertise in the realm of cybersecurity, providing a network of relationships spanning all aspects of cybersecurity, in addition to the related fields of fraud, audit, compliance, and risk management.

The new website and branding from Cyturus highlights its unique Adaptive Risk Model (ARM), including its greatly expanded platform features and capabilities. In addition, Cyturus is also promoting The Cyber Risk Tracker (CRT) which allows users to continuously manage cyber risk while providing visibility to the executive suite.

“Our Platform allows users to gain visibility into ever-changing cyber security risks while simultaneously managing the maturation process.” - Robert Hill, founder and CEO

Today Cyturus (risk management as a service) offers the industry’s only subscription mitigation service designed to remediate high-risk findings. Cyturus continues to deliver a comprehensive enterprise risk service designed to identify and manage risks associated with cyber security.

These services are now enhanced with comprehensive risk management modeling.

“Cyturus brings a unique approach to the cyber-risk industry. As a former CISO I find their service offering to be compelling. Cyturus cyber-risk services would add immense value to any organization seeking to assess their cybersecurity posture, understand their level of cyber-risk, and find a baseline for improvement into the future. I highly recommend it.” – Steve King, Cybersecurity Advisory Services, Cyber Theory

CONTACT INFORMATION
Lou Carli
844-4-CYTURUS
Lou.carli@cyturus.com
https://cyturus.com

About Cyturus
Cyturus delivers a risk reduction platform to measure the cybersecurity maturity of an organization across the entire business enterprise and provide visibility into the areas offering the greatest potential reduction in business risk.

For more information, contact Lou Carli, Chief Revenue Officer (844-4-CYTURUS).

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

Balance Physical Therapy expands beyond Salinas and Monterey facilities by opening in Prunedale New Location to Open January 2021

 A native of the Salinas Valley, Dr. John Farahmand founded Balance Physical Therapy and Human Performance Center in 2002, vowing to build the most patient-focused, result-oriented rehabilitation facility in Monterey County. 

Monterey, CA, November 19, 2020 - A native of the Salinas Valley, Dr. John Farahmand founded  Balance Physical Therapy and Human Performance Center in 2002, vowing to build the most patient-focused, result-oriented rehabilitation facility in Monterey County. 

Using innovative exercise interventions, advanced rehabilitation techniques, and the latest in research and science, Dr. Farahmand and his team quickly expanded the practice, with offices in Monterey (2260 N. Fremont St.) and Salinas (143 John St.). 

Based on its reputation as a result-oriented rehabilitation facility committed to helping patients return to an active lifestyle, BPT has now expanded further, opening a third location (January 2021) in Prunedale at 17760 Moro Road, Suite #120 

The new facility will serve Prunedale, Castroville, Watsonville, Gilroy, San Benito County and South Monterey County. 

“We are excited to become  an integrated part of these communities,” said Dr. Farahmand. “We have a team of highly trained physical therapists and committed to helping our patients live a happy, healthy, and pain-free life” 

To better serve and connect with the region, BPT will join both North County Chamber of Commerce and Pajaro Chamber of Commerce. There is a planned joint virtual ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, January 28th at 5:00 p.m. with those chambers, along with Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce, with details pending. 

For more information, visit www.balancept.com. 

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

 

Sanctuary Vacation Rentals Reminds Families to Think Outside the House and Inside the Home for Holidays

They say “home is where the heart is,” so taking a family holiday experience on the road should come quite naturally. 

Monterey, CA, November 18, 2020 — They say “home is where the heart is,” so taking a family holiday experience on the road should come quite naturally. After all, a home consists of the places and people we love and cherish most. 

During these extraordinary times, Sanctuary Vacation Rentals would like to help empower families to begin thinking outside the house and inside the home for the holidays. Securing a month-long vacation rental on the idyllic Monterey Peninsula will help create holiday memories to last a lifetime. 

According to the auto club group AAA, air travel is down roughly 74 percent since the virus struck in March. While many remain leery of airplanes and terminals, loading up the family car for a holiday road trip to the Monterey Peninsula remains a safe, viable option.  Families can travel together and arrive to a greeting of expansive ocean views, fresh air and beautiful natural land and seascapes. 

Sanctuary Vacation Rentals provide safe, clean, gorgeous getaways that can redefine the holiday experience. 

Here are eight great reasons to book a home on the Monterey Peninsula: 

Create a beautiful holiday home base.

Enjoy a safe, family-friendly environment.

Pack and unpack just once.

Relax with extra room and the time to enjoy it.

Choose the type of property, amenities and comforts you desire.

Save money by shopping and cooking your own meals.

Enjoy high-speed wifi on multiple devices

Create lifelong holiday memories in the location of your dreams.

Find the perfect getaway home that will nurture your body, mind and spirit while you discover and savor all the delights of the scenic Monterey Peninsula. Sanctuary’s unique vacation homes, many with stunning ocean views, invoke a sense of peace and harmony, often awe, and in some inexplicable way allow people to relax and have fun, as well as to revitalize and reconnect with one another. 

Find out more at www.sanctuaryvacationrentals.com.

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

Cinnamon Shore for the Holidays: Your Holiday Home Away from Home Awaits

 The Texas Coast’s popular, resort-style village helps families make memorable celebrations.

Port Aransas, Texas, November 17, 2020 — Holidays typically draw families home, but this December, many are looking to gather for celebrations elsewhere. After all, everyone has spent a lot of time at home in the pandemic era.

Vacationers are choosing road trips to the Texas Coast—and to Cinnamon Shore, with its record-breaking reservations for vacation rentals. “We still have availability this December, however, and guests will enjoy seeing our community all decked out,” says Jeff Lamkin, developer of this New Urban development located on the outskirts of Port Aransas. “Families really enjoy spending the quiet week before New Year’s here, too.”

People are seeking to be together in a place that feels special, but also private, safe, and secure—with wide open spaces and plenty of fresh air. That’s what Cinnamon Shore offers. “With all the challenges and changes that 2020 has brought, it’s a great year to try something different around the holidays and to celebrate in a place where all you have to do is relax,” says Celeste Edwards, general manager of Cinnamon Shore Vacation Rentals.

Those who book this December will appreciate all that this charming destination offers:

·        Large beach homes that can accommodate multiple families. Many Cinnamon Shore rentals boast two master suites, two living areas, multiple decks, designer kitchens, and plenty of seating for mealtimes.

·        Condos and cottages with master suites and bunks rooms. Smaller scale rentals also offer everything families need. And one-bedroom condos welcome couples or solo guests.

·        A fitness center overlooking the Dune Pool. Keep moving during holiday getaways with Peloton bikes, treadmills, and more. Our workout center keeps safety top of mind with limited capacity and stringent cleaning standards.

·        On-site restaurants. Guests can enjoy popular newcomers at Cinnamon Shore―Dylan’s Coal Oven Pizzeria and Coffee Waves, along with long-time favorite Lisabella’s Bistro.

·        Village retail. The Bottle Shoppe liquor store opened in 2020, along with The Market, which offers sundries, produce, cheeses, and Cinnamon Shore merchandise.

·        Easy beach access. Dune crossovers make it easy for guests of all ages to get to the beach via a stroll or golf cart ride.

·        Quiet season charms. The less-crowded beach is just as beautiful in cooler weather.

Cinnamon Shore has grown into a full-fledged resort-style village with luxury accommodations, and its nearby expansion, Cinnamon Shore South, offers more beachside rentals with designer selections and style.

Special Dates During The Holidays

The Christmas season kicks off at Cinnamon Shore with a visit from Santa and his reindeer on Sat., Nov. 28, when families can take photos in the Town Center. Port Aransas hosts its Golf Cart Parade and Lighted Boat Parade on Sat., Dec. 5—another great weekend to book at Cinnamon Shore. And for holiday celebrations with family and friends before, during, or after Christmas Day itself, guests will have a gorgeous beachfront where they can bundle up for beach walks or football tossing. Many rentals have fireplaces for cozy holiday nights.

If vacationers can’t make before Christmas, the week between Christmas and New Year’s is a quiet season favorite. On New Year’s Eve, chef-run Lisabella’s Bistro will offer a prix fixe menu.

“We hope many guests make spending time at the beach a new holiday tradition,” says Edwards.

Check vacation rental availability at cinnamonshore.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.

 

Orthopedist Dr. Molly Meadows Launches Orthopedics Program at Mee Memorial Healthcare System in King City

 Orthopedist Dr. Molly Meadows has launched her practice and the orthopedics program at Mee Memorial Healthcare System (MMHS) in King City starting this month.

King City, CA, November 11, 2020 — Orthopedist Dr. Molly Meadows has launched her practice and the orthopedics program at Mee Memorial Healthcare System (MMHS) in King City starting this month. As the on-staff expert, Meadows is seeing patients of all ages to diagnose and treat orthopedic-related medical conditions.

With a career focus and specialty training in pediatrics and adult sports, Meadows completed medical school at Columbia University, did five years of residency at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago and two years of fellowship at Stanford’s Orthopedics and Sports Medicine in Redwood City.

Looking to bridge into a practice, she was excited when Dr. Robert Valladeres, Chief Medical Officer at MMHS, reached out to convey to her the real need in the community for these services.

“The opportunity to join the MMHS team as the organization was beginning to build this specialty area was really appealing to me,” says Meadows.

Her practice at MMHS also aligns with her broader humanitarian interests, having served on several mission trips to Honduras, Bolivia and Ethiopia with organizations such as Operation Rainbow that connect rural and underserved areas with specialty services and providers.

Meadows knew from a very young age that she wanted to be an orthopedist.

“As a gymnast growing up in Berkeley, I saw a lot of injuries that resulted from taxing the body and thought it amazing how doctors could put the musculoskeletal system back together,” she says.

Due to the complexity of this system, surgeons currently tend to focus on certain areas of orthopedics, says Meadows. “While you can still find some professionals that do it all, the trend today is towards specialization in order to really perfect one’s technique, and studies have shown this to be more effective in achieving great outcomes.”

Pediatric orthopedists typically diagnose and treat the full spectrum of conditions, from the rare, such as congenital issues and bone deformities, to the more common conditions, like broken bones and athletic injuries such as anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus tears (the piece of cartilage that acts as a shock absorber between the shin and thighbone) and kneecap dislocations.

Typical adult conditions that she treats include rotator cuff tears, ligament injuries, and meniscus and cartilage injuries. Many of Meadows’ joint surgeries can be done arthroscopically; using a minimally invasive procedure where instruments are inserted via small incisions and a fiber optic tube, reducing downtime and scarring.

Her approach as a new hire has been to meet as many patients as possible, get to know them, exhaust all non-surgical treatment possibilities first (this often involves physical therapy) and then perform surgery when absolutely necessary.

Currently, most of Meadows’ cases come from primary care referrals within the MMHS network, but the organization is widening its reach to expand these services throughout the South County community.

Meadows loves working with the patients and staff at MMHS.

“The patients are so very grateful as this service has not been available for some time — it’s very rewarding to work with people who are thankful!” she says. “The medical and support staff have been so gracious and welcoming and I am eager to offer expert orthopedic services to first-time patients in need of orthopedic care or athletes preparing to get back in the game.”

 About Mee Memorial Healthcare System

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.

 Learn more at meememorial.com/ortho or call (831) 385-6000.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
The Buzz PR LLC
(831) 747-7455
https://www.meememorial.com/ortho

Determined to help Pet owners pay for Veterinary care, Dina Ruiz joins Max’s Helping Paws Foundation board

Facing unprecedented hardships brought by the pandemic, many Monterey County pet owners find it difficult, if not impossible, to afford the costs of unexpected care for their treasured pets. 

Carmel, CA, November 11, 2020 - Now they have a new champion in Dina Ruiz, the newest board member for Max’s Helping Paws Foundation, a local animal welfare nonprofit that helps responsible pet owners fund treatment for pets facing a health crisis. “Helping responsible pet owners obtain vet services in times of need is one of the greatest undertakings in the nonprofit arena,” said Ruiz, who is “mom” to four dogs and one stray cat, who adopted her family in 2019. “Being part of Max’s Helping Paws, getting to be part of taking away stress and maintaining love, is an honor, a privilege.” 

Ruiz has enjoyed a long and varied career in broadcast and print media. She is the former weeknight anchor at KSBW-TV in Salinas. She co-hosted the pioneering television show, “Candid Camera” with Peter Funt. She also created, executive produced and starred in E! Network’s “Mrs. Eastwood & Company” while managing the pop-vocal band Overtone featured in the show. 

Ruiz has a 30-year history of service as president and/or member of nonprofit boards, including The California Museum, The Panetta Institute for Public Policy, Make-A-Wish Foundation of the Greater Bay Area, and now Max’s Helping Paws. 

“I came late to the wonderful world of dog ownership, getting my first dog (a pug named Coco) when I was 48-years-old,” she said. “Since then, I’ve adopted and/or fostered nine dogs. I cannot imagine the agony of watching their health falter — or losing them altogether — due to not being able to take care of their medical needs. I am so grateful to Max’s Helping Paws for making vet care accessible to so many Monterey County citizens.” 

Ruiz recognizes pet owners face urgent needs during the pandemic. 

“Times are tougher than ever with Covid, virus-related job losses and other hardships,” she said. “Max’s Helping Paws is the light at the end of a dark tunnel for pet owners in their darkest hour. I am honored to be part of it!”

 Believing financial circumstances should never decide a companion pet’s fate, Max’s relies on the generosity of the community to fund its mission. General donations are accepted through the nonprofit’s website www.maxshelpingpaws.org. 

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
The Buzz PR LLC
(831) 747-7455
http://www.maxshelpingpaws.org

Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa Named a 2020 Platinum Choice Award Winner by Smart Meetings

 Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa has been named one of only 10 properties in California to win the prestigious 2020 Platinum Choice Award from Smart Meetings for hospitality “organizations that consistently exceed expectations and help planners deliver on their goals.”

 Monterey, CA, November 11, 2020 —Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa has been named one of only 10 properties in California to win the prestigious 2020 Platinum Choice Award from Smart Meetings for hospitality “organizations that consistently exceed expectations and help planners deliver on their goals.”

The Hyatt Regency Monterey has “gone above and beyond during these difficult times and moved to the top of readers’ lists by delivering professional, creative and thoughtful service,” according to the industry magazine. “Meeting production is a collaborative industry and working with the best-in-class is how we deliver above expectations for attendees and clients.”  

The Hyatt Regency Monterey was the only property in Monterey County to win the award. 

About Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa on Del Monte Golf Course

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

 About Davidson Hotels & Resorts

Davidson Hotels & Resorts is an award-winning, full-service hospitality management company comprised of 61 existing hotels and resorts; more than 120 restaurants, bars and lounges; and nearly 1.5 million square feet of meeting space across the United States. Amassing one of the purest full-service hotel portfolios in the industry, Davidson, along with its lifestyle and luxury operating vertical, Pivot Hotels & Resorts, specializes in independent and branded assets in the upper-upscale to luxury segments. A trusted partner and preferred operator for Hilton, Hyatt, Kimpton, Marriott, and Margaritaville, Davidson offers a unique entrepreneurial management style and owners’ mentality that provides the individualized personal service of a small company, enhanced by the breadth and depth of skill and experience of a larger company. For more information, visit www.davidsonhotels.com. Follow us on Instagram: @davidsonhotelsresorts and Twitter: @Davidson_Hotels. Like us on Facebook: @DavidsonHotelsandResorts. Connect with us on LinkedIn: @Davidson_Hotels_and_Resorts.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
The Buzz PR
(831) 747-7455
marci@thebuzzpr.net
https://www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/california/

 

ARCpoint Labs Offer Affordable, Accurate and Convenient COVID-19 Saliva Tests

 Looking for more affordable, more accurate and more convenient COVID-19 saliva tests with a 48-hour turnaround for test results? 

Monterey, CA, November 10, 2020 - Looking for more affordable, more accurate and more convenient COVID-19 saliva tests with a 48-hour turnaround for test results? ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay has saliva tests that are as or even more accurate than the gold standard nasal swab. You can get tested at our labs with convenient drive-through testing or pick up the test to self-administer at home. We can also mail you a test pack! It’s easy to administer, requires no blood sample or nasal swab, just saliva. To make an appointment online to get the test, go to labtestmonterey.com. For information, call (831) 324-0772 or email us at monterey@arcpointlabs.com . Cost for the test is $155 at the lab, or $200 to be shipped to your home.

ARCpoint Contact:

ARCpoint Labs | 831-324-0772 | 24560 Silver Cloud Court, #103 Monterey, CA 93940 | Website

 

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
The Buzz PR LLC
831-747-7455
marci@thebuzzpr.net
https://www.TheBuzzPR.net

A New Generation of Shoppers Discovering the Joys of Vintage Clothing

Once a modest subculture of aficionados and bargain hunters, the resale of vintage clothing has exploded into a huge market that is growing exponentially faster than retail. 

Salinas, CA, November 02, 2020 - Fueling that market are young, savvy shoppers, many of them millennials and Gen Xers who are shaking up the fashion industry by digging out their parents’ cast-offs and raiding the aisles of Goodwill in search of vintage treasure. 

Workers at Goodwill Central Coast’s Santa Cruz store report a frenzy of activity surrounding vintage clothing. They are seeing a whole new customer base, mostly younger shoppers seeking out the cool, often one-of-a-kind items. 

“It is so exciting to see this trend,” said Santa Cruz store manager Evelyn Matthew. “Younger people want their own personal style and Goodwill helps them with that.” 

Matthew said she notices mostly girls (age range 16 to 21) searching for vintage clothing, and their experience seems to be better when they shop in a group. The only common thread with the variety of skirt, dress and shorts combo seems to be Doc Martens boots and shoes, Matthew said. 

“I am really grateful that they are looking for their fashions at our store,” she said. “It is really fun to see the selection process.” 

Younger generations value the individual and consider fashion as a way to express their own personality. Thrift shopping ensures them the uniqueness of their own style. Many of the pieces found at Goodwill are one of a kind, and they allow for endless possibilities of matching and styling in creative ways. 

A new wave of Goodwill shoppers

 Until recently, younger shoppers did not embrace second-hand fashion. But now it seems they are waking up to the fact that vintage clothes can be adaptable to the latest trends, and that timeless classics can become a staple of any wardrobe. 

Fashion is today the second most polluting industry in the world, followed only by big oil. It is also known for its often-unethical practices regarding workers’ conditions. 

Younger shoppers have a collective awareness of these issues, and are discovering the benefits from buying ethical and sustainable brands.

 They also understand that by buying something second hand, we can extend the life cycle of the items and reduce their environmental impact. This practice ensures that products circulate in the economy longer before hitting the landfills, helping justify all the raw materials and labor deployed in the manufacturing process.

 To get a bargain in the process, these shoppers head to Goodwill Central Coast stores, where we offer seamless, sustainable, social-focused shopping. This enables customers to acquire anything from limited edition streetwear and vintage luxury to thrifted pieces. 

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

Monterey County Fair Announces Theme Contest for 2021 Fair

 The Monterey County Fair has announced a contest for the community to come up with a theme for the 2021 Monterey County Fair, which will be held Sept. 2-6, 2021. 

Monterey, CA, October 29, 2020 — The Monterey County Fair has announced a contest for the community to come up with a theme for the 2021 Monterey County Fair, which will be held Sept. 2-6, 2021. 

The deadline to submit a theme idea is Dec. 31, 2020. The winner of the contest will receive $100 and two family ticket packages to the fair. The winner’s theme will be used as the official theme of the 2021 Monterey County Fair and used in Fair promotional materials and campaigns. 

To enter the contest, entrants should print or type their entries on one piece of paper. Each entry must be five words or less and a maximum of three entries per person can be submitted. Please do not use the words Pandemic, COVID or Coronavirus. Think happy thoughts about 2021! 

No entries will be accepted that are the same or similar to other trademarked slogans and/or themes. The last five years of fair themes for reference are: 

2020 – “Fiesta”

 2019 – “High Tides and Carnival Rides”

 2018 – “Shake Your Tail Feathers”

 2017 – “Fair Fun in the Summer of Love”

 2016 – “Celebrate 80!”

 Themes can be submitted by emailing them to: entry@montereycountyfair.com . Please make sure each theme entry has a name and contact phone number with it. Entries can also be mailed to the Fair Office at 2004 Fairground Road, Monterey, CA  93940. 

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

 

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