VNA Hospice’s Innovative Latino Mobile Resource Center Van to Visit Two Locations in South County in August, Plus Four Via Zoom Conferencing Sessions and Five at CHISPA Communities

The nonprofit VNA Hospice’s innovative Latino Mobile Resource Center van will be at two South County locations in August 2020 — once in Gonzales and twice in King City — as well as four times via Zoom conferencing and five at CHISPA housing communities.

King City, CA, July 30, 2020 - The nonprofit VNA Hospice’s innovative Latino Mobile Resource Center van will be at two South County locations in August 2020 — once in Gonzales and twice in King City — as well as four times via Zoom conferencing and five at CHISPA housing communities.

The van, which was launched in November 2019, continues its mission to deliver information and resources about end-of-life decisions and care to the local Spanish-speaking communities of Monterey County.

The van, funded in part by Hospice Giving Foundation, will be at the following physical locations:

>8-11 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 2: Identifying needed resources for the community, King City Flea Market, 625 Division St., King City.

>10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tuesday, August 4: Identifying needed resources for the community, Vosti Recreation Center, 107 Centennial Dr., Gonzales.

>8-11 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 9: Educating the Community on End of Life Planning, King City Flea Market, 625 Division St. King City.

The outreach with the CHISPA (Community Housing Improvement Systems and Planning Association, Inc.) communities, all on the topic of identifying needed resources for the community, are as follows:

>3-5 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 25, at Los Abuelitos Senior Housing, 528 East Market St., Salinas.

>12-3 p.m. Monday, Aug. 31, Canyon Creek Townhomes, 1834 Chablis Way, Gonzales.

>3- 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 12, Tyler Park Townhomes, 1120 Heidi Dr., Greenfield.

>4-6 p.m. Wednesday Aug. 26, Villa San Miguel, 1201 Amherst Dr. King City.

>12-2 p.m. Monday, Aug. 10, Market Street Townhomes, 110 Market St., Soledad.

The four online Zoom conferencing sessions include:

>6:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 3: Virtual “Go Wish” Game with Mujeres en Acción (Greenfield group).

>12 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6: Virtual “Go Wish” Game with Mujeres en Acción (Soledad group)

>7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6: Virtual “Go Wish” Game with Mujeres en Acción (Castroville group)

>4 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7: Virtual “Go Wish” Game with Mujeres en Acción (Salinas group)

For more information visit www.ccvna.com, or call (831) 372-6668.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Month-Long Vacation Rentals Offer Many Advantages to Working Remotely During Pandemic Closures and Work and Study From Home

Many people are working remotely from home and children are learning their lessons online or being homeschooled by their parents, but there’s no reason to feel confined to where you are.

Monterey, CA, July 31, 2020 — Many people are working remotely from home and children are learning their lessons online or being homeschooled by their parents, but there’s no reason to feel confined to where you are.

There’s no better time than now to book a month-long vacation on the beautiful Monterey Peninsula on scenic Monterey Bay. If you’re going to work and study from home, why not come to an area with expansive ocean views, fresh air and beautiful natural land and seascapes?

A safe and responsible change of scenery may be just the antidote for you and your family. Anyone who has stayed in a vacation rental is well aware of the advantages of staying in a private home rather than traditional traveler lodging — better price, more flexibility, more space, more choices, and so forth.

The vacation rental professionals at Monterey-based Sanctuary Vacation Rentals, which was founded more than 11 years ago and represents more than 100 homes across the Monterey Peninsula, specializes in nightly, monthly and long-term rentals and have surveyed both renters and owners about the advantages of renting on a monthly basis.

Here are eight reasons to rent a one-month vacation rental:

1. You have a home base. It’s your home away from home. You can sleep in, go on an outing, shopping, sightseeing or whatever you want to do. There’s no check-out times. There’s no getting awakened by housekeeping knocking on the door. If you don’t feel like going out, you can stay in for a day and not feel you’re missing out.

2. You only need to unpack and pack once. You can unpack everything you brought with you without having to worry about packing up in a day or two, giving you more leisure time. And you’re not living out of your suitcase.

3. You have more room and more time to use it. Vacation rentals have much more space than the average hotel room. There’s more room to stretch out, relax and use areas of the home you may not use if you’re only there a day or two. Plus, there’s usually more bathrooms and areas where you can get away from everyone else and have some quiet alone time.

4. You can choose the type of property with the amenities and comforts you want. Pick a home that has a hot tub, Jacuzzi or even a pool or one that comes furnished with outdoor swings, fire pits, and gas barbecue grills. Many homes have garages, so you can bring your own beach toys, bicycles, surfboards and other recreational equipment. You can also or rent equipment nearby at Adventures by the Sea.

5. You can save money. By grocery shopping and cooking your own meals “at home,” you can save money and use it on excursions and sightseeing instead of eating out every night. And if you want to eat out, you still have that option too. You can also split the costs with your friends and family and use it on weekends and still be ahead.

6. You have more flexibility. You can plan longer excursions or short trips or do them in stages, knowing you have more than a day or two to experience them all. And if you live a few hours away, you can also go back and forth, if needed.

7. All Sanctuary Vacation Rentals’ homes are equipped with WiFi, so everyone in the family can work and study at the same time on multiple devices.

8. Finally, you can do all of the above in the location of your dreams. Vacation rentals give you more options, whether it’s a quaint Carmel cottage or a multi-room Pebble Beach® home with an expansive view, you’ll be able to find something that fits your dream perfectly.

For more information on one-month vacation rentals and all the options available to you, go to www.sanctuaryvacationrentals.com
or call Sanctuary toll-free at 1-(800) 614-6706.

About Sanctuary Vacation Rentals
Founded in 2008 by Annee Martin, Sanctuary Vacation Rentals boasts a team of 20 professionals and represents more than 100 homes across the Monterey Peninsula, including Carmel-by-the-Sea, Carmel proper, Carmel Highlands, Big Sur, Pebble Beach, Pacific Grove, Monterey, Marina, Seaside, Carmel Valley and the Highway 68 corridor near the airport and Laguna Seca.

Sanctuary’s roster of homes includes everything from cozy two-bedroom cottages in Carmel and Pacific Grove to larger four- to six-bedroom homes that can accommodate up to 12 people and luxurious Pebble Beach® homes with ocean views. Many of the homes are within walking distance to the area’s beaches, restaurants, shopping and tourist attractions.

Sanctuary homes all invoke a sense of peace and harmony, allowing guests to relax, revitalize their lives, reconnect with one another, and above all, have fun. Sanctuary’s goal is to provide guests with a sanctuary from all the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its vision is to inspire and nurture the hearts and souls of guests with the beauty and magic of the Monterey Peninsula while staying in one of its vacation homes.

Sanctuary Vacation Rentals
888 Munras Ave., Suite 100
Monterey, CA 93940
Phone: (831) 233-6340
Toll-Free: (800) 614-6706
www.sanctuaryvacationrentals.com

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

YMCA of the Central Coast 2020 Outside of School program

YMCA of the Central Coast is filling a need with schools going to distance learning by offering four curriculum-based outside-of-school programs through its Excel Beyond the Bell program.

Salinas, CA, July 30, 2020 — YMCA of the Central Coast is filling a need with schools going to distance learning by offering four curriculum-based outside-of-school programs through its Excel Beyond the Bell program.

Youth will do distance learning as part of this four-part curriculum, which will be branch-specific, and includes Character Development Learning Institute, Youth Fit 4 Life, Enrichment Activities, and Homework Time.

Here are some brief details of each program:

Character Development Learning Institute

CDLI Is a licensed, evidence-based program through Y-USA that reflect the Y’s holistic approach to youth development and Y’s core values of honesty, caring, respect, and responsibility.

CDLI integrates social and emotional learning to cultivate values, skills, attitudes, and behaviors including grit, motivation, and a growth mindset necessary for youth to reach their full potential in learning, work and in life.

Youth Fit 4 Life

This program is available at participating YMCA program locations and works to improve the health of young children by promoting an appreciation for a healthy, physically active lifestyle into adulthood.

Children participate in the program four times per week for 45 minutes in each session. Each session includes physical fitness activities and a short educational component where children learn about healthy eating and setting goals.

Enrichment Activities

The Y’s program utilizes developmentally appropriate activities that stimulate a child’s intellectual, social, emotional and physical growth. The Y provides a warm, caring and fun environment that stimulates their natural curiosity and encourages personal expression.

Children develop communication, reasoning and problem-solving skills through play, interaction with other children, and exploration of their environment.

Homework Time

It is the Y’s goal to provide students with an academically rewarding program that promotes social development in a safe environment.

The Y’s programs will include homework and distance learning assistance, reading/language arts, mathematics, history, social studies, and science. A broad range of activities may be implemented based on local student needs and interests.

For more information call (831) 758-3811 or visit www.centralcoastymca.org.

About the Central Coast YMCA
Formed in 1989, the Central Coast YMCA began with the merger of two independent YMCAs; the Salinas Community YMCA (founded in 1921) and the Watsonville Family YMCA (founded in 1898). Originally a USO built in 1941, with the purpose of supporting American troops during World War II, the YMCA of the Monterey Peninsula joined the association in 1990. In 1998 the South County YMCA became the fourth branch in the association, extending its service area to the residents of south Monterey County. The YMCA of San Benito County became the fifth and most recent addition to the association in 1999.

CCYMCA is an independent, private, nonprofit corporation, a part of the YMCA of the USA, but responsible for its own policies, programs, and budgets. It employs 27 full-time employees, about 225 part-time employees, and 120 volunteers who impact approximately 40,000 people in Santa Cruz, San Benito, and Monterey counties.

CCYMCA is located at 500 Lincoln Ave. in Salinas.

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

Monterey Symphony Announces Appointment of John Wineglass as Composer-In-Residence

The Monterey Symphony announced the appointment of John Wineglass as Composer in Residence. Wineglass collaborated with the Symphony in 2016 for Big Sur

Carmel/Monterey, CA, July 28, 2020 – The Monterey Symphony announced the appointment of John Wineglass as Composer in Residence. Wineglass collaborated with the Symphony in 2016 for Big Sur: The Night Sun, a massive symphonic work featuring a drum made from a redwood tree (the premiere can be viewed on the Symphony’s YouTube channel). He spent time at Glen Deven Ranch in Big Sur, thanks to the Big Sur Land Trust.

This appointment, a new title for the organization, brings with it a new set of responsibilities: creating more music. “We wanted John to continue in the Big Sur theme. The idea of creating new art and new music during this complicated time of shelter-in-place seemed really important,” said Symphony Executive Director Nicola Reilly.

Wineglass will work on a Concerto for Violin and Orchestra which the Symphony will premiere in 2022 with Edwin Huizinga as soloist. The creative process will be documented with local filmmaker Doug Mueller capturing the artists at work. Wineglass will again have the opportunity for a residency at Glen Deven Ranch.

“This next Concerto is another part of a series,” said Reilly. “We want John to document this moment in time musically, and we want to be essential in supporting that. There are two other projects in the works, which will be announced soon.”

“After the premiere of Big Sur: The Night Sun with the Monterey Symphony back in 2016 to commemorate the centennial of the city of Carmel, I am once again thrilled to partner with and continue to tell and expose compelling stories through the symphonic medium,” said Wineglass.

Wineglass received his Bachelor of Music degree in Music Composition with a minor in Viola Performance at The American University and later received his master’s degree in Music Composition with an emphasis in Film Scoring for Motion Pictures, Television and Multi-Media at New York University, studying primarily with Justin Dello-Joio of the Juilliard School.

His latest symphonic 2019 premiere of three movements, Unburied, Unmourned, Unmarked: Requiem for Rice was dedicated to the lives of millions and numerous contributions of African and African-American forced laborers who cultivated the immense, expansive, and particularly wealthy rice economy in the Lowcountry. With a libretto and extensive research by historian Dr. Edda Fields-Black of Carnegie-Mellon University, this work has taken them with a team of researchers and film documentarians from the shores of South Carolina to the inner villages of Senegal, Guinea-Bissau and The Gambia. A 2020-2021 (pre-COVID) world premiere of six movements with full chorus in Washington, DC in conjunction with the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) where Dr.

Fields-Black has an installation is planned accompanied by the moving images by LA-based filmmaker and director Julie Dash.

More information can be found at the Symphony’s website: www.montereysymphony.org

The Monterey Symphony was founded in 1946 and incorporated in 1947. The Symphony’s mission is to engage, educate and excite our community through the performance and continual discovery of symphonic music.

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

Neal's Restaurant & Bar in Proctorsville Announces Weekly Food and Drink Specials, Live Music in August

Neal's Restaurant & Bar in Proctorsville, Vt., has announced weekly food and drink specials from Wednesday through Sunday, as well as live music through the month of August.

Proctorsville, VT, July 28, 2020 — Neal's Restaurant & Bar in Proctorsville, Vt., has announced weekly food and drink specials from Wednesday through Sunday, as well as live music through the month of August.

Here are the specials, by day of the week: (All to-go specials serve 4-6 people)

> Wednesday Night is Sandwich Night. Features Meatball Sandwich or Neal’s famous Chicken Sandwich, salad, with a choice of two desserts from the menu, all for only $21.95. This feeds a family of six and is to-go only.

> Thursday is Thirsty Thursday, all night, dine-in only and features $6 blended drinks all night (including daiquiris and pina coladas), $5 draft beer, and ½-price wings.

>Every Friday is “Take Me Out The Ballgame” promotion, dine-in on 55-inch hi-def flatscreens. By-reservation only, last minute, if space is available. Also, Friday night to-go only, family feast that feeds 2-4 people and includes six pieces of boneless skin-on thighs, mashed potatoes, cole slaw, housemade biscuits, for $29.95. Must order in advance, order by 4 p.m. pick up at 5 p.m.

> Saturday is BBQ Platters Day, featuring a full rack of ribs, 1-lb. Dr Pepper-smoked brisket, a slice of prime rib, mashed potatoes, cole slaw, and seasonal vegetables, to-go only, feeds 4-6 people, for $59.95. Add a growler of beer for $10.

>Sunday is Family Night, with a different pasta each week, choice of two sauces each week, salad, choice of two desserts, feeds 4-6 people, to-go only, for $29.95.

Also new:

>Neal’s Lucky Number is 13 and now yours is too! Purchase 12 menu items and get the 13th item free (card value up to $20 to be used on the 13th item).

>Live music through August: House musician Sammy Blanchette will play rock, blues and reggae covers and originals starting at 5 p.m. on Aug. 3, 6, 9, 10, 13, 17, 20, 23, and 24. Singer/songwriter and guitarist Bill Brink will perform at 5 p.m. on Aug. 1, 15, and 30.

Neal’s is now open at noon on weekends serving its full menu and is now open Wednesday nights. Neal’s will be open every day except Tuesday. Neal’s is located at 2588 Route 103, Proctorsville, Vermont.

For more information or updates, follow along on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/nealsrestaurant/), or give owner Neal Baron a call at the restaurant at (802) 226-7251.

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

Carmel Artist Donating Nearly 100 Dog Paintings to Fundraise for Animal Welfare Nonprofit Max’s Helping Paws Foundation

After seven years and more than 100 dog paintings, Folster is happily accepting the moniker “Carmel dog artist,” even though her walks on the beach have been reduced because of arthritis and a knee replacement.

Carmel, CA, July 27, 2020 — Carmel artist Bonnie Folster never considered herself a “dog artist” per se, but seven years ago she started painting images of the dogs she met on her daily walks on Carmel Beach with her beloved Scottish deer hound Buck.

So she was, in fact becoming one.

After seven years and more than 100 dog paintings, Folster is happily accepting the moniker “Carmel dog artist,” even though her walks on the beach have been reduced because of arthritis and a knee replacement. And, she not only has a new Scottish deer hound, Jack (sadly, Buck passed away two years ago), but she’s moved out of the area. This has prompted her to put nearly all works into the public eye, hopefully to be "claimed by" and given to as many of the families of the dogs she painted as possible.

“I’m very happy they’re finally getting out to people,” says Folster. “It’s very gratifying to have the paintings find a home with the people who love their dogs. And I had fun doing them.”

Max’s has an online gallery page (https://www.maxshelpingpaws.org/carmel-dogs) with images of nearly 100 paintings/drawings (some are acrylic on canvas, others are colored pencil on archival paper). Several of the pieces are on display for a limited time at The Barnyard upstairs in the windows of Building G near the Fire Pit. Similar commissioned paintings by Folster, of varying sizes would normally “fetch” between $100 for the small paintings and pencil sketches, and more than $350 for the larger 8x12 paintings. Recipients can both claim and donate through the webpage. (www.maxshelpingpaws.org/carmel-dogs)

No payment is being requested, however Folster asks that recipients of her artwork consider making a donation in whatever amount they feel is appropriate to Max’s Helping Paws Foundation.

“I didn’t do it to sell, I did it for fun,” she says. “And it just kind of kept going. No one asked me to paint their dog, but lots of people might be surprised and, I hope, pleased, that I did. I hope they will make a generous donation to Max’s for all they are doing in this community.”

About Max's Helping Paws Foundation
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 $250,000 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
26388 Carmel Rancho Lane, Suite D
Carmel CA 93923

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

Max’s Helping Paws Foundation Releases Complimentary ‘Ultimate Dog & Cat Resource Guide for Monterey County’

Since 2016, Max’s Helping Paws Foundation has helped Monterey County dogs and cats stay healthy, happy and home.

Carmel, CA, July 23, 2020 - Since 2016, Max’s Helping Paws Foundation has helped Monterey County dogs and cats stay healthy, happy and home. Now the nonprofit has found a way to help navigate all the wonderful pet-friendly places and services in our beautiful backyard. Whether you live here, plan to live here, or you’re just visiting with your pet, the “Ultimate Dog & Cat Resource Guide for Monterey County” is the only resource guide a pet-lover will ever need. The handy guide features pet-friendly spaces and places, such as daycare options, parks, veterinarians, trainers, groomers, restaurants and more. The guide will be updated quarterly to ensure the most accurate information, and is currently only available online.

And the best part? It’s free.

“We’ve scoured all available channels looking for all the businesses located within Monterey County that serve or support dogs and cats, and put it all together in a single place,” said Dyana Klein, who started Max’s four years ago, following the death of her Miniature Pinscher Max. “We would love for this to become the local go-to resource for pet-people. If readers don’t see a service they'd expect to see, or see one that isn’t current, please let us know."

To download a digital copy of the “Ultimate Dog & Cat Resource Guide for Monterey County” please go to this link. (https://www.maxshelpingpaws.org/ultimate-dog-cat-resource-guide-monterey)

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.

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

Artichoke Festival Cancels Popular 5K Beach Run in Monterey Set for September 2020

The Artichoke Festival has announced that it is cancelling its popular 5K Beach Run, which had been rescheduled for Sept. 12, 2020, from its original date in May 2020.

Castroville, California, July 23, 2020 — The Artichoke Festival has announced that it is cancelling its popular 5K Beach Run, which had been rescheduled for Sept. 12, 2020, from its original date in May 2020.

“The Artichoke Festival Committee has decided that the need to keep participants, spectators, and event volunteers safe and healthy is the most important consideration during this ongoing health crisis,” the festival said in a letter sent to registered entrants and previous participants. “As we have monitored the current situation and look toward the near future, it has become evident that a mass gathering such as a beach fun run will not be safe in our community in September.”

The festival plans on bringing the 5K Beach Run back in the spring of 2021, in advance of the Artichoke Festival on June 5-6, 2021, and will announce a new date at the beginning of 2021. Those interested in participating are encouraged to go to the festival’s website at ArtichokeFestival.org for info, and consider signing up for the festival’s newsletter for the latest news.

“We are immeasurably grateful for the patience and understanding our Beach Run entrants have shown us in the past months,” the message said. “We look forward to a healthier time when we can once again see you all at one of our Artichoke Festival events in the months ahead!”

The Artichoke Festival will return on June 5-6, 2021, at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center.

POLICY FOR PAID ENTRANTS

The festival will refund participation fees to all currently registered participants of the 2020 Artichoke Festival 5K Beach Run, beginning on July 20, 2020.

As an organization whose mission involves connecting people with a unique celebration that also allows it to give back to the community, donations and proceeds enable the Artichoke Festival (a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization), to continue funding many charitable and educational non-profit organizations within Monterey County. The Artichoke Festival has given back more than $210,800 in the past decade to local support programs and non-profit organizations.

About the Artichoke Festival
California’s artichoke history began in 1922 when the first artichoke shoots were planted in Castroville. Today, more than nine decades later, nearly 100 percent of America’s fresh artichoke supply is grown in California and nearly two-thirds is grown around the small town of Castroville.

The Artichoke Festival began in 1959 and has since developed to become a harvest festival to celebrate the iconic artichoke and region known as the “Artichoke Center of the World.” The Festival features family-fun events for all ages and has been a primary source of funding for local non-profit groups for many years.

For more information, visit http://artichokefestival.org/.

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

ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay Offers Five Different COVID-19 Tests — Two for Live Virus, Three for Antibodies — And How to Choose Right One for You

ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay is now offering two live virus tests and three antibody tests for COVID-19, but which one is the right one for you?

Monterey, CA, July 22, 2020 — ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay is now offering two live virus tests and three antibody tests for COVID-19, but which one is the right one for you?

“The different COVID-19 tests available can be divided into two main types, which answer different questions,” said Spenser Smith, lab director at ARCpoint Labs. “Are you more concerned with whether you are potentially infected right now, at the time of testing? Or are you more interested in whether you may have been infected in the past, potentially several weeks or months ago, and have since recovered?

If you are concerned about being infected now, maybe even contagious, then you want a live virus test. These tests detect the presence of SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) by looking for the virus’ molecular signature directly. Typically, these tests use a nasal/oral swab or saliva sample.

If you test positive with a live virus test, you are carrying virus right now and should be assumed to be contagious, even if you are experiencing mild or no symptoms. If you test negative that means no virus was detected, though in some cases a physician’s judgment or further evaluation is needed to understand if your results may be a false negative.

There are two live virus testing methods which differ primarily in accuracy and how long results take to process.

The first is an Antigen Rapid Test, which requires a nasal or other swab, with a 24-hour turnaround time, a 94% true positive rate, 100% true negative rate, no doctor’s order is required, $130.

The second is a PCR NAAT Lab-based test, which also requires a nasal or other swab, with a 2-to-5-day turnaround time, a 99% true positive rate, 100% true negative rate, a doctor’s order is required, $130.

Some people may be more interested in whether they have had COVID-19 at some point in the past. Perhaps they had symptoms weeks ago, but were never able to obtain a live virus test, perhaps they are curious if they may have been an asymptomatic case. Antibody testing is used to screen for past infection by COVID-19.

If you test positive for COVID-19 antibodies, that means you have encountered COVID-19 in the past. In some cases, a positive for IgM or IgA may indicate current infection as well. Though COVID-19 antibodies seem to indicate resistance to future reinfection, individuals who test positive should still follow face covering, hand washing and social distancing guidelines to protect themselves and others. If you test negative for COVID-19 antibodies, you have not likely been exposed to COVID-19 at any time before and should be considered susceptible to infection.

ARCpoint Labs offer three antibody tests to determine past infection. All three require drawing blood.

One, a Qualitative Past Exposure Test, which has a three-to-seven-day turnaround, five-plus weeks recommended time since exposure, positive-negative results only, 100% true positive rate, 99.4% true negative rate, $49.

The second is an IgG only Semiquantitative Test, one-to-four-day turnaround, five-plus weeks recommended time since exposure, semiquantitative value, 100% true positive rate, 99.4% true negative rate, $120.

The third is a Combination Antibody Test (IgG+IgM+IgA), one-to-four-day turnaround, two-plus weeks recommended time since exposure, Semiquantitative value, 100% true positive rate, 99.8% true negative rate, $180.

If you have questions about ARCpoint Labs COVID-19 testing, go to www.labtestmonterey.com or call (831) 324-0772. You always speak directly to a local testing expert at ARCpoint Labs.

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

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

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

Website: www.arcpointlabs.com
COVID-19 Appointments: labtestmonterey.com

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

VNA volunteer Connie Sapien Makes Patients Feel Good by Looking Good — and that’s often the Beat Medicine

VNA volunteer Connie Sapien Makes Patients Feel Good by Looking Good — and that’s often the Beat Medicine

Salinas, CA, July 20, 2020 -“If God lets me live … I shall not remain insignificant. I shall work in the world and for mankind.”

Frank, of course, fell victim to the Holocaust, but she fulfilled that destiny posthumously through her book “The Diary of Anne Frank.” Sapien made it through her surgery following a terrible stroke, and wanted to spend her time making life better for others.

“In no way do I put myself in the category of Ann Frank,” she said. “Her words are so powerful. They reminded me, though, that I needed to do whatever I could to make a bit of difference.”

Sapien eventually became a volunteer at VNA, helping the nonprofit achieve its ultimate goal — to provide care in an ethical, effective, compassionate and fiscally responsible manner.

Sapien’s surgery became an important turning point in her life.

“I was so scared all I could do was pray,” she said. “I asked God to help me make it through this, and I promised that I would find something I could do with my time to help or benefit others.”

Although she recovered from the surgery in 2006, she suffered a stroke three years later, and her left hand suffered partial paralysis. That forced her to give up her love of cutting hair as owner-stylist at Hair Unlimited in Salinas.

She found herself with lots of free time, joining various community service organizations in an attempt to find her niche.

Then her mother was diagnosed with cancer. She wanted to stay at home, and Connie and her sister were able to fulfill that wish for her, eventually turning to VNA and Hospice.

“I saw how great the nurses were at providing my mom with a service we couldn’t provide,” she said. “We were so thankful to VNA.”

Because Sapien had never worked in the medical field, she had no idea she could volunteer her time for VNA. She quickly learned that VNA volunteers did a wide variety of tasks.

“I started by doing respite care, light housekeeping and companionship,” she said.

Because of her hand, Sapien had not cut anyone else’s hair (besides her own) since her retirement. “I wanted to try cutting someone else’s hair but found it challenging because some of the patients could not get out of bed.”

She worked with VNA nurses and caregivers to effectively prop up the patients into a sitting position, allowing her to work around her partial paralysis. “This took lots of pillows, but we managed,” she said. “The easy ones were the patients who could sit in a wheelchair.”

Suddenly, Sapien had found the best of two worlds.

“I could continue to use my talent, also socializing with patients and their caregivers,” she said. “I love making people feel good, by looking good. That is the best medicine.”

Sapien keeps busy in her life, especially when it comes to cooking, gardening and dancing. “I love any form of exercise, yoga and aerobics,” she said. “Presently I practice Zumba.”

For VNA, Sapien schedules as many patients in one day as possible, traveling all over Monterey County — from Carmel Valley to Hollister — to share her talents and compassion.

“Everyone I have met at VNA is a kind, loving caring human being,” she said. “The patients, especially the elderly, are in so much need of a visit, a touch or companionship because a lot of them have no family close by.”

VNA provides medical attention and the volunteers help with special tender loving care.

“I am so proud to be a member of the volunteer team,” said Sapien, who encourages people she meets to try and find an area in VNA Hospice where they can contribute to helping the elderly.

“There are great rewards when you know you have made someone comfortable and happy,” she said. “Their smiles are worth millions. I promise, your life will be enriched tremendously.”

For more information about VNA, visit www.ccvna.com.

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

Goodwill Central Coast Shares tips on How to shop Safely and Happily throughout the Pandemic

The year 2020 has brought unforeseeable changes as a global virus dramatically altered the way we all live.

Salinas, CA, July 20, 2020 - The year 2020 has brought unforeseeable changes as a global virus dramatically altered the way we all live. But through it all we have found solace in ordinary activities that provide a sense of comfort.

Those activities include shopping — and helping a community thrive by supporting the ongoing mission of Goodwill Central Coast. Safely and patiently shopping at your local Goodwill store helps job seekers get back to work and reclaim financial and personal independence.

And in the process shoppers can dive into a treasure trove of items — all at bargain prices. Goodwill has found that donations have increased dramatically since the pandemic began, as the community has looked to effectively downsize and declutter.

Shoppers at Goodwill Central Coast stores may notice some changes made as part of important safety measures. Face masks are required, of course, and shoppers should follow social distancing guidelines.

Goodwill will limit the number of shoppers at one time, so a queue will often form outside each store. Goodwill urges shoppers to show patience — and will reward a lucky few who maintain composure in support of this policy.

When it comes to shopping, how do bargain hunters find new treasures and still stay safe? Goodwill Central Coast offers the following tips:

Seniors, students and members of the military receive 10 percent off purchases when shopping Monday through Wednesday.
The slowest time of the day is normally after lunchtime until Goodwill stores close (check www.ccgoodwill.org as hours frequently change due to COVID-19).
Follow the markers on the floor designed to improve traffic flow and create social distancing.
Shop in zones (Goodwill stores have separated housewares and clothing, for example).
For those who remain uncomfortable shopping in person, Goodwill reminds them to shop on the nonprofit’s e-commerce site at www.shopgoodwill.com. More than 130 Goodwill organizations from across the country list and auction unique items on the site. Each day the Salinas e-commerce team alone ships 400 to 500 items, from gold jewelry to clothing, musical instruments and more.

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

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

San Lorenzo Valley Water District Offering Financial Assistance to Low-Income Water Service Customers

The San Lorenzo Valley Water District is implementing a low-income assistance program for up to 208 qualifying residential water customers starting July 15.

Boulder Creek, CA, July 15, 2020 — The San Lorenzo Valley Water District is implementing a low-income assistance program for up to 208 qualifying residential water customers starting July 15.

Income-eligible customers who currently receive a discounted rate through PG&E’s CARE program may be eligible to receive $10 off their monthly water bill.

To see if your household qualifies, answer these three questions:

• Yes, I pay SLVWD for an individually metered residential water service AND

• Yes, I receive a discounted rate through PG&E’s CARE program for the same address and in the same name AND

• Yes, I live at the property that receives these services and the SLVWD bill is in my name

If you said yes to all three of the required qualifications, you may apply by doing the following:

• Complete a web form available here https://www.slvwd.com/customer-service/webforms/rate-assistance-program

• Attach your most recent PG&E bill showing participation in the CARE program for the same address as the water bill.

• If you are a tenant, attach a copy of your lease agreement. If you do not have a lease agreement, contact Customer Service so SLVWD can send the owner a verification form.

Approved applications will be granted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Please click here to view the full policy, including continued eligibility requirements.https://www.slvwd.com/customer-service/webforms/rate-assistance-program

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

All Branches of Central Coast YMCA Now Open and Operating Summer Day Camps, Following Strict Local, State and CDC Safety Guidelines

The Central Coast YMCA is providing safe, reliable childcare while following all current local, state and CDC guidelines to be safe during the pandemic.

Salinas, CA, July 14, 2020 - Summer Camp is crucial for our youth and community. The Central Coast YMCA is providing safe, reliable childcare while following all current local, state and CDC guidelines to be safe during the pandemic.

All branches are now open and operating Summer Day Camp, offering a summer experience that will last a lifetime. More than 2800 children are registered for Summer Day Camp and over 1050 have attended since June 1.

Detailed guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and the YMCA recommend extensive cleaning protocols and safety measures to protect kids.

The Y will separate campers into small groups, require social distancing and wash hands frequently. The camp’s common areas and equipment will undergo frequent cleaning.

Experts agree that kids need summer camp for their mental health. They need to be around children their own age to play and be kids again. They need a routine and something familiar. They need to feel normal again.

“Play is essential,” Dr. Jeffrey Hutchinson, fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, told CNN. “Unstructured time is vital for development, stress reduction, and physical and mental health [for children].”

Central Coast YMCA has moved its administrative offices from Salinas to Monterey in order to increase capacity for summer day camp while incorporating social distancing and complying with CDC guidelines.

The camp runs Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m., and space is limited. Parents should reserve their child’s spot now. Financial assistance is available. For more details, call your local branch or visit www.centralcoastymca.org.

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

Sheraton Palo Alto Offering ‘Summer Drive to Outside Fun Package’ Road Trip to Enjoy Outdoor Activities in Charming Palo Alto

Beautiful Palo Alto is in the heart of the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Area, within short driving distance from many areas of California and filled with outdoor activities, from hiking and kayaking to golfing and biking.

Palo Alto, CA, July 10, 2020 — Beautiful Palo Alto is in the heart of the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Area, within short driving distance from many areas of California and filled with outdoor activities, from hiking and kayaking to golfing and biking.

With that in mind, the Sheraton Palo Alto is launching a “Summer Drive to Outside Fun Package,” a road trip with the Sheraton as your base of operations from where you can enjoy the charming attributes of Palo Alto.

The Sheraton is just 2.5 miles from The Stanford Dish, a popular hiking area that offers hikers and walkers with stunning panoramic views of Silicon Valley, with the striking 150-foot diameter dish, a radiotelescope that is still in use, as its centerpiece. The sprawling Stanford University campus also provides a nice setting for a shaded walk, jog, or bike ride.

The Sheraton is just 8 miles from Shoreline Park in Mountain View, which offers golf, bike, kayak and paddle boat rentals — a beautiful setting to enjoy the outdoors.

The area also boasts two golf courses, the Shoreline Golf Links, an 18-hole championship course that offers golfers equal parts beauty and challenge; and the Baylands Golf Links, which features 55 acres of native Baylands vegetation and wetlands areas.

You could play a few sets of tennis at Mitchell Park Tennis Courts or stroll the gorgeous garden at Filoli Historic House & Garden, a site of the National Trust for Historic Preservation in nearby Woodside.

End your day with a stroll to downtown Palo Alto for outdoor dining or window shopping.

The area is packed with outdoor activities and Sheraton’s concierge can help you find the perfect activity for your outdoor adventure in Palo Alto. Seize the day, your way!

To book this package, go to: https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/sjcsi-sheraton-palo-alto-hotel/. The “Summer Drive to Outside Fun Package” includes complimentary parking and HSIA.

About the Sheraton Palo Alto
The Sheraton Palo Alto Hotel is the perfect location for business or leisure travel, bay area weddings or banquets in Silicon Valley. Located at the entrance to Stanford University, the hotel is within walking distance to downtown Palo Alto with its charming boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and nightlife.

Just one block away you will find the nationally recognized Stanford Shopping Center, Stanford Stadium, Stanford Medical Center, Palo Alto Medical Foundation and the Town & Country Village. The hotel is one block from the CalTrain Station, which provides easy access into San Francisco and San Jose.

The Sheraton’s resort-like setting provides 346 spacious guestrooms with many of the rooms featuring a patio or balcony that overlooks the koi ponds, water and flower garden or the sparkling pool.

Taste the freshness of California cuisine at the Poolside Grill, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with al fresco dining.

The Bay Area Silicon Valley Hotel offers event facilities for banquet and wedding receptions.

Sheraton Palo Alto
625 El Camino Real
Palo Alto, CA 94301
650-328-2800
https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/sjcsi-sheraton-palo-alto-hotel/

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/sjcsi-sheraton-palo-alto-hotel/

Everyone’s Harvest Certified Farmers’ Markets in Marina, Pacific Grove and Salinas are all open and going strong while adhering to all state and local health and safety guidelines.

Marina, CA, July 10, 2020 — Everyone’s Harvest Certified Farmers’’ Markets in Marina, Pacific Grove and Salinas are all open and going strong while adhering to all state and local health and safety guidelines.

Everyone’s Harvest Markets are open Sundays in Marina, Mondays in Pacific Grove, Tuesdays in Alisal, Wednesdays at Natividad Medical Center and Fridays at Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System (SVMHS), all in Salinas, with fruits and vegetables, local honey, fresh eggs, and more.

Alisal’s market, which is located at Women, Infants And Children (WIC) offices at 632 East Alisal St., is open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays, and features three farmers, WIC program for healthy families, and all markets now match P-EBT (special Pandemic EBT funds distributed recently) for Market Match, to increase EBT customers’ spending power.

Natividad’s market, open Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Natividad Medical Center at 1441 Constitution Blvd., has added Perfect Crumb Bakery, Frutas Frescas Barajas, and Locally Roasted Coffee back this week, joining Stackhouse Orchards of San Joaquin Valley, offering dried tree fruits and almonds; Gallardo’s Organic Farm in Salinas, offering vegetable row crops and strawberries; and Golden Flowers, offering fresh-cut flowers.

Both markets are smaller, modified markets with social distancing plans in place. All markets have strict social distancing and thorough sanitation plans in place.

SVMHS, open on Fridays from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m., at 450 East Romie Lane, brought back Mai Thai cuisine, Chava's Roasted Corn and Baked Potatoes, and this week, Maido Sushi and Teriyaki.

The Marina Certified Farmers’ Market is held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday at 215 Reservation Road, in Marina. The Pacific Grove Certified Farmers’ Market is held from 3 to 7 p.m. every Monday at the corner of Central and Grand avenues, in Pacific Grove.

Fruits and vegetables currently in season include peaches and nectarines, a few tomato varieties, summer squash, fresh strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, and avocados.

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

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

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

>Also, Kirk Williams Avocados are back.

Marina market now includes:

>Honey from MockaBees Aromas Apiary in Aromas.

Both PG and Marina markets now include:

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

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

New vendors at Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System:

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

At all markets:

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

>Taco trucks.

Coordinating markets and the Fresh Rx program is new market program manager, Karen Gomez.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The plan of action includes the following:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Today at Everyone’s Harvest:

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

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

Cinnamon Shore Announces Rare, Newly Renovated Gulf-Front Home Hitting the Market This Week

Buyers looking for Gulf-Front property within driving distance of major Texas cities should know about this opportunity to get the coastal lifestyle from homeowners who perfected it.

Port Aransas, Texas, July 10, 2020 - Those who know Cinnamon Shore―the upscale, New Urbanist development on the outskirts of Port Aransas, Texas―know there is only one row of fewer than 20 homes that have direct Gulf views. Owners rarely put these Gulf-front tier homes on the market, but this week, a stunning, recently renovated, 4-story masterpiece will be listed.

Nestled behind protective dunes, 186 Seaside Drive offers almost 5,000 square feet of living space, with five bedrooms, three main living areas, and a top-floor tower and bunk area; an additional 1,600 square feet of porches and decks; and 550 square feet of garage and storage space. Furthermore, the seller will give the buyer the opportunity to complete the coastal lifestyle with first rights to purchase a 35-foot Boston whaler, boat slip, and airplane/boat hangar nearby.

“This is an incredible opportunity to have the Gulf-front lifestyle of your dreams—in an instant,” said Jodi Peters, broker at Cinnamon Shore Realty. “These types of homes rarely make it to the market, and we anticipate high interest.”

Listed at $2.7 million, the residence is built atop Gulf-front property that’s in very short supply in Texas, and the home has value that goes beyond its incredible architecture, interiors and Gulf-front views. “People purchase these types of homes because they want to give their families a place to gather and memories for a lifetime,” Peters said.

Yet the home’s design represents thoughtful consideration of how to enjoy every aspect of beachfront living, and the renovations and additions completed in 2015, before Hurricane Harvey, and after 2018, post Harvey, make it an even more incredible value. The home has undergone extensive cosmetic updates, including new exterior paint, interior paint refreshes, the addition of a Sub-Zero refrigerator to the already incredible kitchen, and refinished and newly stained hardwoods. It also has upgrades that increase its longevity in coastal conditions, including:

New systems, such as the air conditioning system with three units and a whole house dehumidifier
New Marvin windows and door
New foam insulation in attic and walls
New exterior siding with “air barrier” membrane
New Trex composite patio and steps
Newly done work on the metal roof
Cinnamon Shore Realty can share other recent renovations, including details on new landscaping and new window treatments.

Throughout the home, handsome woodwork and trim, coffered ceilings, and other details convey sophistication in a still-relaxed coastal scheme. With a main living space on the ground floor for easy access, Gulf views from all top-floor bedrooms, and extras such as a “man-cave” with its own mini-fridge and freezer, this house meets multi-generational vacation needs and represents a standard of luxury not often found on the Texas Gulf Coast.

To learn more about 186 Seaside Drive, contact Cinnamon Shore Realty at 361-749-185, email jodi@cinnamonshore.com, or view the listing [link to come]. For more about the community, visit 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.

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

VNA Hospice’s Innovative Latino Mobile Resource Center Van to Visit Three Locations in South County in July

The nonprofit VNA Hospice’s innovative Latino Mobile Resource Center van will be at three South County locations in July — one in Chualar and two in King City.

King City, CA, July 08, 2020 — The nonprofit VNA Hospice’s innovative Latino Mobile Resource Center van will be at three South County locations in July — one in Chualar and two in King City.

The van, which was launched in November 2019, continues its mission to deliver information and resources about end-of-life decisions and care to the local Spanish-speaking communities of Monterey County.

The van, which is a part of Hospice Giving Foundation’s Juntos con Esperanza partnership, will be at the following locations:

> 12-3 p.m. Thursday, July 9: 2020 Needs assessment survey distribution, Alma’s Bakery and Deli, 25482 Payson St., Chualar.

>8-10 a.m. Thursday, July 16: VNA bringing resources to the community of King City at St. John Catholic Church, 504 N. 3rd St., King City.

> 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday, July 23: VNA bringing resources and needs assessment survey distribution, Leo Meyer Center, 415 Queen St., King City.

This program was funded (in part) by the Hospice Giving Foundation.

Since 1951, the nonprofit VNA Hospice has used an integrated, team-oriented approach to helping those facing a life-limiting illness, along with their families and caregivers.

For more information visit www.ccvna.com, or call (831) 372-6668.

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

Kindness Monterey Campaign to Help Restaurants and Those In Need Due to COVID-19 Emergency Will Be Launching New Website

Kindness Monterey, a campaign initiated to help individuals in need and restaurants that have been challenged as the result of the coronavirus emergency, will soon be launching its website to keep the campaign going.

Monterey, CA, July 07, 2020 — Kindness Monterey, a campaign initiated to help individuals in need and restaurants that have been challenged as the result of the coronavirus emergency, will soon be launching its website to keep the campaign going.

The campaign was created by local businesswomen Annee Martin and Maren Elwood, and the website, www.kindnessmonterey.com launches Thursday, July 8, 2020, was built by Carmel’s Tracy Hopper of Hopperopolis, a Monterey Peninsula-based marketing communications company (http://hopperopolis.com/)

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.

Restaurants will be able to sign up on the website or can sign up now by calling 831-235-7662 or by email at info@kindnessmonterey.com.

In addition to the website, Martin connected with Kiki Whitman of Kiki Wow Events (https://www.kikiwow.net/), who joined forces with Kindness Monterey to create an online music concert “Monterey Care-A-Thon,” to share the healing power of music by local musicians in an effort to raise donations for local restaurants, support local musicians and feed those in need with the common goal to benefit the community.

Whitman, upon hearing of Kindness Monterey’s vision, saw this as a way to support the community that she has been such an integral part of and will be reaching out to restaurants and sponsors to help get them on board for the campaign. Whitman is a musician herself as well as a producer of music events in the area.

They will create at least two online music events this summer/fall to help raise money to fund the campaign, purchase gift cards for those in need, as well as support struggling musicians who have found themselves unable to perform in public. The dates for these concerts are Sunday, Aug. 2 and Sunday, Sept. 6, 2020.

There is also a related campaign in place to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County (BGCMC): For every $1,000 raised, $50 will be donated to the Boys & Girls Clubs to provide weekend grab-and-go meals for 6 children. Martin and Elwood are hoping to find business supporters to help sponsor this campaign. Martin, who founded Sanctuary Vacation Rentals, also plans to purchase gift cards and place one in each of her rental homes for visitors and she is hoping to encourage others to do the same.

The campaign for Kindness Monterey began the way many worthy projects begin, with two good friends sharing an idea for a worthwhile cause. Friends Martin and Elwood were talking about how they missed going out to their favorite restaurants and how they could support them during the pandemic-induced closings and reduced operations. Martin and Elwood believe strongly that our small cafes, restaurants, bakeries, coffeehouses, wineries and food trucks are the anchor and fabric of our community and provide so much more than just food and drink. These are the places where we meet to celebrate, share our human connections and live life to its fullest.

Martin, founder of Sanctuary Vacation Rentals grew up in the restaurant business and was trained as a professional chef for 25 years, she felt the emotional and economic pain that the Covid-19 pandemic was having on restaurant owners, many of whom are friends. She was sad as she read some of the signs posted on closed restaurants and messages on their websites. She also noticed that everything that was being asked of restaurants to be able to serve customer was not sustainable.

Elwood who is a visual anthropologist and small business owner herself, also felt the pangs of her customers, many who also were being challenged financially and emotionally. She would leave small gifts of cheer, such as home-baked goods or flowers from her garden to help brighten their day. She saw that these small acts of kindness really made a difference.

Elwood studies cultures with her video camera. She has been busy during the COVID pandemic helping people with their technology and she will be in charge of working with the local restaurants to make sure people can easily buy gift cards to support these great eateries and people in need. Elwood’s website is: www.onsiteexpeditions.org.

Martin had learned from Executive Director Moe Ammar, that the Pacific Grove Chamber of Commerce had purchased 25 gift certificates from their restaurant members and delivered them to 25 chamber business members who were experiencing hardship due to the COVID-19 health crises. He told Martin that it really lifted their spirits and that he was going to purchase another 25 the following week and deliver them.

Martin was so inspired that she decided to purchase gift cards on her own and gave them to her church to be distributed anonymously to members in need. She continued to purchase gift cards for friends and businesses that were in need of support and cheer. That small but meaningful action inspired Martin and Elwood to start a campaign to purchase gift cards from restaurants and distribute them to those most in need. In that way it would help both restaurants and the recipients of the gift cards, a win-win for everyone.

Martin decided to adopt one of her favorite restaurants, Mezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar in Pacific Grove, and began ordering takeout for her family and friends. She would leave love notes and words of encouragement for the owners Amy and Soerke Peters, but knew something more still needed to be done. Since tourists had not been able to visit the area, and with so many local people now on unemployment, she understood that ordering from a restaurant was something people felt they could no longer afford.

Martin mentioned to Elwood that in Santa Cruz County, similar campaigns have been established, some to help businesses that went beyond just restaurants to include small retail and service providers such as massage, nail and hair salons, clothing and gift stores and other small businesses. So they decided to take a hybrid approach so they could begin reaching out to Monterey County restaurants and the community at large to provide a central platform for gift card giving and information. Martin then reached out to Marci Bracco Cain of Chatterbox Public Relations for help in bringing together a team to develop a logo and website and use social media as a platform to spread the word and find sponsors.

Thus the creation of Kindness Monterey (www.kindnessmonterey.com), which continues to grow and expand. While still in its infancy, Kindness Monterey continues to grow and expand with the love and support of the community. Plans are underway to:

· Provide gift cards weekly to the Food Bank for Monterey to distribute them to those most in need.

· Start an Adopt-A-Restaurant campaign to help support customers’ favorite restaurants thru social media.

· Support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County (BGCMC): For every $1,000 raised, $50 will be donated to the Boys & Girls Clubs to provide weekend grab-and-go meals for 6 children.

· Find individual and business supporters to help sponsor this campaign and to provide matching funds to drive gift card sales. Martin plans to purchase gift cards and place one in each of her rental homes for visitors and she is hoping to encourage others to do similar acts of kindness.

· Organize two online music events called Care-A-Thons scheduled for Sunday, Aug. 2 and Sunday, Sept. 6, produced by Kiki Wow and showcasing local talent. The goal is to help musicians as well to raise money for the restaurant gift card campaign and provide an evening of wonderful music for our community.

The gift cards purchased through Kindness Monterey not only help the individual restaurants, they help those in need of a meal.

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; Maren Elwood at 831-238-5503; or Kiki Wow at 831-235-7662. Or, go to the website at: kindnessmonterey.com.

Kindness Monterey Partners

“We would like to express our sincere gratitude to these individuals and businesses

that have helped us build our site, spent numerous hours on research, reached out

to the restaurants and helped get the campaign launched,” said Martin. “We would also like to say thank you “ahead of time” to anyone who is able to help us with the ongoing funding needed to keep the ongoing campaign alive, including the online Care-A-Thon Music Concert Series to help raise monies for our Boys and Girls Club program, Food Bank gift card drive, and support our matching programs.”

For more information about how to offer gift cards and to get assistance setting it up, please contact Maren Elwood at 831-238-5503 or info@kindnessmontery.com

You may also contact Kiki Wow at 831-236-7662 info@kindnessmontery.com.

How to sign up to be listed on the www.kindnessmontery.com website:

If you already have a gift card program in place, Kindness Monterey will initially use the gift card link on your website along with a photo or logo of your restaurant to do the launch July 8, 2020.

However, in order to make the gift card program work easier for the purchaser and to give you the best chance for success, Kindness Monterey highly recommend that you sign up for the Square gift card (https://squareup.com/us/en/l/egift-cards) so that the purchaser and recipient will be able to receive the gift card electronically and instantly with no waiting period.

Kindness Monterey recognizes that there may be some instances in which an actual physical gift card is desired and Kindness Monterey will provide instructions on how best to acquire them from the restaurant either in person, online or through the restaurant’s website. Square does offer physical gift cards for purchase as well.

Kindness Monterey is not in any way affiliated with Square, it's just the quickest and easiest solution at this moment.

Here are the advantages to offering gift cards through Square:

Track where the gift cards originate from.
Participate in promotions, for example, to be able to offer a $75 gift card for $60 or 20% off.
Offer discounts.
Instant delivery: Send to a friend or organization electronically.
Uniform platform for the website.
Allows the most flexibility.
No additional work needed to mail cards.

For more information about the Square program and to get assistance setting it up, please contact Maren Elwood at 831-238-5503 or info@kindnessmontery.com

You may also contact Kiki Wow at 831-236-7662 info@kindnessmontery.com.

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

Monterey Symphony Postpones 75th Anniversary Season, Announces Artistic Content Plans

The Monterey Symphony announced its plans to postpone the 75th Anniversary Season which was slated to open at Sunset Center in October of 2020.

Carmel/Monterey, CA, July 07, 2020 – The Monterey Symphony announced its plans to postpone the 75th Anniversary Season which was slated to open at Sunset Center in October of 2020. This upcoming season focused on selecting the next Music Director of the Monterey Symphony, along with concerts in celebration of the orchestra’s 75 years.

Four finalists were announced in September of 2019: Donato Cabrera, Jung-Ho Pak, Jayce Ogren, and Peter Bay. Bios and information can be found about all four on the Symphony’s website. The Symphony remains committed to the search and intends to proceed in October of 2021. Also on the program, a new work by John Wineglass in honor of the historic Anniversary, featuring violinist Edwin Huizinga; a collaboration with Antioch Chamber Ensemble and the Cabrillo Symphonic Chorus; and a concert featuring the cinematic works of Mark Mancina.

With live performances falling into Phase 4 of the reopening and the current resurgence of cases and the current closure of Sunset Center, postponing the season was a unanimous decision by the board. Programming for the next twelve months includes releasing of archival recordings, musical postcards from the Symphony’s principal players and Balcony Sessions – solo performances from the Symphony’s new offices in Carmel at the corner of 7th and San Carlos.

The Symphony’s full offerings will be available on its website: www.montereysymphony.org and the complete line-up will be announced August 15, 2020.

Will Baker, Principal Bass Trombone
Photo credit: Manny Espinoza, Crema Creative Media

Nicola Reilly
Executive Director, Monterey Symphony
Direct: 831-645-1131/Office: 831-646-8511
We've moved!
7th & San Carlos, Hampton Ct. Suite 7 (upstairs)
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93921

PO Box 7130
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93921
www.montereysymphony.org

For media inquiries please contact:
Nicola Reilly Executive Director, Monterey Symphony
831-645-1131 or nreilly@montereysymphony.org

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

Neal’s Restaurant & Bar Launches New Menu Starting July 4, Featuring Smoked Barbecue Fare and Comfort Food

Neal’s has chosen America’s birthday to launch its new menu.

Proctorsville, VT, July 06, 2020 - Known for its authentic wood-smoked barbecue fare — including beef brisket, “fall-off-the-bone” baby-back ribs, and pulled pork — an upcoming new menu from Neal’s Restaurant & Bar also covers the comfort food classics.

Neal’s has chosen America’s birthday to launch its new menu. Beginning Saturday, July 4, owner Neal Baron unveils an eclectic mix of food, with barbecue favorites, steaks, burgers, seafood, fried chicken, housemade mac and cheese and a special sandwich it calls the Cluckin’ Russian.

Also on that day, the restaurant has planned a festive Independence Day party, complete with barbecue specialties, drinks and live music.

“It will be a great celebration, and a peek at what lies ahead,” Baron said.

A longtime supporter of local farms and purveyors, Neal’s sources beef from Boyden Farms, produce from Black River Produce, and keeps Vermont craft beer on tap.

Some of the new menu’s appetizer highlights include: Mama’s Munchies (12 Melba crackers with Cheddar, scallions, black olives and bacon, $6); poutine ($11.95, add bacon for $2, add pulled pork and BBQ sauce for $5, add brisket and Dr Pepper au jus for $7); chicken wings, (BBQ, Wood’s Cider Chipotle, Maple Szechuan or Buffalo, $9.95); zucchini fries or mozzarella sticks with Mikey’s marinara, $8.95/$7.95.

Neal’s soups and salads include a regular soup of the day, along with its popular lobster chowder ($9.95). It will offer a daily, seasonal salad, along with its authentic Caesar salad ($9.95).

Neal’s famous sandwiches (served with fries) include: Surf and Turf Hoagie (lobster and shaved smoked prime rib); Cluckin Russian (country fried chicken thigh with Muenster, bacon and Russian dressing on a hard roll), $14.95; Smoked Prime Rib Cheesesteak (with peppers and onions, $16.95); Connecticut-style Lobster Roll (lobster warmed with tarragon- and Old Bay-infused butter); Brisket Sandwich (with pickled red onion and jalapeño mayo-mustard on a brioche bun, $15.95); Pulled Pork Sandwich (with cheddar and cider slaw, $13.95); Caprese Chicken Sandwich (with tomato, mozzarella, basil, mixed greens and balsamic, $13.95); VT Burger or Beyond Burger, $13.95 (with $1 additions, American, Swiss, Cheddar, bacon, sautéed onions, sautéed mushrooms).

Entrees include: half rack baby-back ribs (with cider BBQ sauce, $21.95); half pound of Dr Pepper-smoked brisket, $22.95; Chef Jason’s Pad Thai, $16.95 (add tofu $5, add chicken $5, add shrimp $7); pan-roasted salmon (with chef’s sauce, $21.95); steak of the day (market price); Liz’s mac and cheese, $13.95 (add broccoli $2, add bacon $2, add pulled pork $4, add brisket $5, add lobster $9; two-piece buttermilk fried chicken thighs, $14.95.

Side dishes include: vegetable of the day, $4; mashed potatoes, $4; hand-cut fries, $4; cider slaw, $4; beer-battered onion rings, $6.

Neal’s kids menu ($8.95) includes the following choices: hot dog with fries; pasta with marinara (or plain); grilled cheese with fries; chicken fingers with fries; mac and cheese.

Neal’s Restaurant & Bar is open five days a week (closed Tuesday and Wednesday) for outdoor and indoor dining, and continues to offer curbside pickup. For updates, fans can follow along on Facebook (@nealsrestaurant), or give Baron a call at the restaurant at (802) 226-7251. Neal’s Restaurant & Bar is at 2588 State Route 103, Proctorsville.

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

Balance Physical Therapy Announces Seminars to help prepare Patients for Joint Replacement Surgery

Hip, knee and other joint replacement procedures are among the most common, cost-effective and successful elective surgeries in the United States.

Monterey, CA, July 06, 2020 - Hip, knee and other joint replacement procedures are among the most common, cost-effective and successful elective surgeries in the United States.

Doctors perform more than 1 million total joint arthroplasty procedures annually, with this number expected to increase to nearly 4 million by 2030.

Dedicated to being the most patient-focused, result-oriented rehabilitation facility in Monterey County, Balance Physical Therapy & Human Performance Center is now providing seminars to help prepare patients for joint replacement surgery.

With offices in both Salinas and Monterey, BPT has scheduled its first seminar on Thursday, July 23 in Salinas (143 John St.) and Thursday, July 30 in Monterey (2260 N. Fremont St.). Each seminar will start at 5 p.m., with classes limited to 10 people. Social distancing will be practiced, with face masks required.

Classes will be taught by BPT’s Dr. Miguel Vargas and Dr. John Schott. Vargas (PT, DPT, CSCS) is the Clinical Director at BPT Salinas, as well as a certified strength and conditioning specialist. Schott (PT, DPT) earned his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from University of California San Francisco, and his clinical experience includes outpatient orthopedics, sports rehabilitation, chronic pain, post-surgical procedures and vestibular rehabilitation.

Vargas and Schott will be discussing the specifics of total knee and total hip replacement, what to expect when you first wake up after your surgery in the hospital, and a typical plan of care with physical therapy.

There will be a limit of 10 people for each event and social distancing guidelines will be strictly enforced. Attendees temperatures will be checked before entering the facilities, participants will be spaced 6 feet apart and will be required to wear a mask (if you do not have a mask, one will be provided). The event will be recorded and posted to Facebook and YouTube for anyone who is unable to attend the event.

Topics for the one-hour classes will include: explanation of the specifics of each surgeries (how the knee and hip are replaced), pre-surgery exercises to help improve strength, range of motion and endurance; what to expect when you first wake up from surgery, how to optimize your recovery through circulation exercises to help control swelling and prevent more serious complications, such as blood clots; and your plan of care once you start the outpatient physical therapy process.

Those interested should RSVP through Eventbrite at the following links for Salinas and Monterey.

Balance Physical Therapy & Human Performance Center,
143 John St. Salinas and 2260 N. Fremont St,
Monterey. www.balancept.com.

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