ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay Expands Its COVID-19 Rapid Testing Capabilities

ARCpoint Labs has added 10 testing machines to its lab, with the long-term goal of offering businesses and schools on-site testing so they can get quicker results.

Monterey, CA, August 14, 2020 — ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay has expanded its rapid testing capabilities, adding new testing equipment, allowing 24-hour turnaround for test results, perfect for businesses, schools and individuals who need quick results.

ARCpoint Labs has added 10 testing machines to its lab, with the long-term goal of offering businesses and schools on-site testing so they can get quicker results.

ARCpoint has also expanded its staff to handle the increased workload, now with 10 people working in the lab alone. ARCpoint is also hiring now to meet demand.

ARCpoint will also be opening a branch in Salinas in the fall.

The 24-hour turnaround test is a live virus test, Antigen Rapid Test, which requires a nasal or other swab, a 94% true positive rate, 100% true negative rate, no doctor’s order is required, $130. A viral test identifies whether you have the current SARS-CoV-2 infection in your body.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay Introduces Lab-Based COVID-19 Antibody Test

The test marks a step forward in COVID-19 research; reveals whether asymptomatic patients have already been infected, suggesting potential immunity

Monterey, CA, April 20, 2020 — ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay, one of more than 100 diagnostic testing lab franchises across the U.S., has announced a new lab-based COVID-19 antibody test that could change the way people and businesses are reacting to the pandemic, providing a path toward normalcy for Americans.

ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay is offering up to 90 appointments per day to members of the public starting April 20th, available via the website labtestmonterey.com.

“We won't be able to do the finger-stick version of the antibody test any longer, but we switched to a version of the test that uses a whole tube of blood from the arm, is more accurate and sophisticated, has earlier detection, and is considered by doctors and health professionals to be a big step forward in medical usefulness,” said ARCpoint of Monterey Bay co-owner and lab director Spenser Smith. “This test is a new and improved version that we are rolling out to continue our embrace of the newest testing technologies for COVID-19.”

Smith said the downside of the new tests is that it takes longer to perform, can’t be done in a drive-through setting and is more expensive, at $150 as opposed to the $68.31 cost of the finger-prick test cost. But the arm-draw test is more reliable and sophisticated and has shown to be more accurate than the finger-prick tests, which was rushed into service nationally and has shown to have a high rate of inaccuracy compared to the arm-draw tests.

In mid-March, the FDA issued a policy that allowed for manufacturers and laboratories to create, distribute and use rapid serological (antibody) tests without requiring an Emergency Use Authorization to allow more people to have access to tests amid the pandemic. ARCpoint began using point-of-care tests that gave results within 10 minutes, to great success in its franchised locations across the U.S., including the Monterey lab.

On or around April 8, however, the FDA added additional clarification to the policy, requiring tests to be performed in high-complexity labs. This new wrinkle led ARCpoint to partner with Access Medical, a high-complexity laboratory, to offer a lab-based serological test as part of its ongoing effort to expand access to the most innovative COVID-19 testing available.

The test, which detects SAR-CoV-2 antibodies — specialized immune proteins the body produces in reaction to the COVID-19 virus — may reveal whether or not an asymptomatic individual has already been infected with the virus.

For the vast majority of viruses, antibodies signal immunity, meaning asymptomatic individuals who test positive are likely resistant to or functionally immune to the novel coronavirus. As research continues and access to testing improves, public health authorities expect reliable antibody testing to be a key part of recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.

By confirming the presence of antibodies in some individuals, the test can restore confidence and provide relief for Americans whose lives have been upended by social-distancing measures. Crucially, it will also provide a tool for businesses — particularly those businesses deemed “essential,” whose employees regularly interact with potential carriers like healthcare workers and grocery store employees — to minimize risk for employees at work.

“This could be a major development in terms of understanding how widespread this disease has actually been,” said Dr. Chris Cherubino, Medical Director for ARCpoint Franchise Group. “Because we currently have no idea how many people may have recovered from and be immune to the virus, everyone is forced to take the strictest precautions; as a result, much of the country has been shut down. By providing antibody tests, we can begin to build a body of evidence and hopefully restore some measure of normalcy for people and businesses as the fight to contain the coronavirus continues.”

These high-complexity immunoassay antibody tests require a simple blood draw; samples are submitted to a lab for analysis and returned in two to five days. Beyond the result for the consumer, these lab-based tests make a greater impact in the fight against COVID-19 because blood samples and results are reviewed by scientists, who can use the data to guide future research.

In an effort to bring the test to a diverse group of people in the local communities it serves, ARCpoint labs of Monterey Bay is beginning to offer appointments for this test to members of the public via an online appointment-making website, located at labtestmonterey.com. The lab is also able to make arrangements with critical businesses, first responding agencies, and other organizations to test staff directly during onsite or exclusive testing events.

“Because this is a new virus, regulations are constantly changing, and ARCpoint is adapting to those changes to provide the best testing solutions in real time. If and when the FDA begins issuing EUAs for the rapid point-of-care serological tests, we will offer them again, but are currently focusing our efforts on the lab-based tests so as to not leave our franchisees and their communities without a solution,” said John Constantine, President and CEO of ARCpoint Franchise Group. “As a country, we don’t have access to good statistical information about how widespread the virus is. The more tests that can be conducted, the better that data will be. The better the data, the better decision-making can happen at a local and federal level. Our antibody test will provide a glimpse into the full scope of this virus. We are working with partners who are developing a quantitative test that will indicate how much of the antibody is present in a large sample of individuals, which will help guide future research of how we treat and prevent this virus.”

Dr. Cherubino adds, “It is very important to understand that this test will not tell you if you have the virus currently. This test is only to determine if you may have had the virus in the past and have recovered.”

With 100 locations across the U.S., each with the capacity to administer several dozen tests per day, ARCpoint Labs will be able to reach a wide swath of patients quickly.

“In a crisis of this magnitude, there is not going to be a single solution that suddenly brings everything back to normal. Still, it’s hard to overstate the impact this test may have in terms of allowing people to get back into the world and providing crucial insights into the nature of the virus,” Constantine said. “We are proud to be one of the first to introduce this kind of test widely in the U.S., but mostly we are just excited to play a small role in providing the first step in getting some relief in this difficult chapter.”

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

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

ABOUT ARCPOINT LABS
ARCpoint Labs is a full-service national third-party provider/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
24560 Silver Cloud Court, #103 Monterey, CA 93940
Phone: (831) 324-0772
Email:
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

Chamber Music Monterey Bay presents Music from Copland House

“They played with exhilarating confidence and verve…fluid, fluent, and lithely balletic.” – The Strad

Carmel, CA, October 29, 2018 - Returning to Chamber Music Monterey Bay after their last performance in April of 2007, MUSIC FROM COPLAND HOUSE is the internationally-acclaimed touring ensemble-in-residence at Aaron Copland’s National Historic Landmark home near New York City, an award-winning creative center for American music (http://www.coplandhouse.org/). Hailed by The New York Times for “all the richness of its offerings” and “illuminating essential truths about music,” MCH occupies a special place as perhaps this country’s only wide-ranging American repertory ensemble. Provocatively uniting past and present, American and non-American, it journeys across 150 years of our nation’s rich musical legacy, reaching back deep into the 19th century and forward to just-completed compositions.

MCH has been engaged by Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, the Library of Congress, Yaleand the Smithsonian Institution’s Freer Gallery of Art, among many others. The ensemble records for Arabesque, Koch International, and Copland House Blend labels, and has just begun the 10th season of its popular main-stage concert series at the historic Merestead estate in New York’s lower Hudson Valley. Its live and recorded performances feature a stellar roster of award-winning founding, principal and guest artists. Inspired by Copland’s peerless, lifelong advocacy of American composers and their work, MCH commissions and premieres many new works andalso presents a wide variety of educational and community outreach activities across the U.S.

performing works by Shostakovich, Puts, Lam, and Fauré

7:30 p.m. on Saturday, November 3, 2018

(6:45p.m. Pre-Concert Talk with musicologist Kai Christiansen)

Sunset Center, Carmel

Clarinetist ALEXANDER FITERSTEIN has performed in recital and with prestigious orchestras and chamber music ensembles throughout the world. As a soloist, he has appeared with the Orchestra of St. Luke’s at Lincoln Center, Simon Bolivar Youth Orchestra of Venezuela, Tokyo and Belgrade Philharmonics and many others. A dedicated performer of chamber music, he frequently collaborates with distinguished musicians and ensembles, and performs at esteemed chamber music festivals and societies. He taught at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, and is Professor of Clarinet at Baltimore’s Peabody Conservatory.

Violinist CURTIS MACOMBER is a member of Da Capo Chamber Players, the Manhattan String Quartet, and Walden Chamber Players and a founder of the Apollo Trio. Previously, he was a member of the pioneering Speculum Musicae, and, as a member of the New World String Quartet, performed on nearly all of America’s leading concert series and toured widely abroad. He is on the chamber music faculty of The Juilliard School, his alma mater, and the violin faculties of both the Manhattan School of Music and Mannes College of Music, and has also taught at the Tanglewood, Taos, and Yellow Barn Music Festivals. Among one of today’s most versatile performers, his extensive discography includes core repertory and critically-praised recordings of hundreds of contemporary solo and chamber works.

Cellist ALEXIS PIA GERLACH has appeared extensively in recitals and as a soloist with orchestras around the U.S. and the world. As a sought-after chamber musician, she performs at the Marlboro, Aspen, Bridgehampton, La Musica di Asolo and Caramoor Festivals, and as a Guest Artist with the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center. She is a founder of Trio Solisti and the string sextet Concertante. She has also commissioned new works from Kevin Puts, Richard Danielpour, and Paul Moravec, among many others.

Pianist and Copland House Artistic and Executive Director MICHAEL BORISKIN has performed in over 30 countries, at Lincoln Center, the Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall, BBC, London’s Wigmore Hall, among many others. He has appeared extensively as soloist with leading international orchestras and as guest artist with the Borromeo, Lark, St. Lawrence, and St. Petersburg String Quartets, Dorian and Sylvan Wind Quintets, and New York Philharmonic Ensembles, and served as Music Director of Mikhail Baryshnikov’s fabled White Oak Dance Project. He has recorded widely on Naxos, SONY, New World, Albany, and Bridge and is a frequent presence as a performer, host, and commentator on NPR and American Public Media.

Join Chamber Music Monterey Bay for a riveting program that includes:
Piano Trio No. 1 in C minor, op. 8 (1923) by Dmitri Shostakovich
Living Frescoes(2012) by Kevin Puts
Fragrance of the Sea (2017)by Angel Lam
Piano Trio in D Minor, op. 120 (1923) by Gabriel Fauré

Living Frescoes was inspired Bill Viola’s 2002 video art installation Going Forth by Day, a series of five looped digital “frescoes” which explore themes of human existence: individuality, society, death, rebirth. The performance will feature a unique multi-media component.

Commissioned by Chamber Music Monterey Bay as part of a larger commissioning project entitled The Arc of Life, Living Frescoes was an idea conceived by CMMB Artistic Director Emerita Amy Anderson who commissioned composers Christopher Theofanidis, Joan Tower, George Tsontakis and Kevin Puts to create works related in some way to Mr. Viola’s Going Forth by Day. It was premiered on October 12, 2012 by Trio Solisti, (Maria Bachmann, violin; Alexis Pia Gerlach, cello; Jon Klibonoff, piano) joined by clarinetist Jon Manasse. Ms. Gerlach returns to Carmel for a second performance of Living Frescoes as a member of Music for Copland House.

Please contact Tammy Moore at tammy@dworkincompany.com for additional quotes or interview opportunities with the artists.

Music from Copland House will visit Monterey High School on Friday, November 2 for two interactive student outreach sessions with music teacher Bob Aguilar and his music students in advanced and beginningstring classes as part of Chamber Music Monterey Bay’s Visiting Artists Outreach program.

Learn more about the music on the program by attending Chamber Music Monterey Bay’s popular pre-concert lecture with musicologist Kai Christiansen at 6:45 p.m.

Kids up Front and Free! Students in grades 3-12 and music teachers receive FREE tickets. $15.00 discounted tickets are available for their adult companions through Chamber Music Monterey Bay’s education program. Experience the concert up close.

Ticket prices: $33.00 - $52.00; $15.00 for adult students under 30 years of age and active military.Tickets are available at ChamberMusicMontereyBay.org or (831) 625-2212. Box office opens at 5:45 p.m. on the day of the concert.

Chamber Music Monterey Bay is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to preserve the tradition of live classical chamber music performance and explore the evolution of this intimate art form through commissions of new compositions and local educational outreach.

Contact:
Andrew T. Sudol
Executive Director
asudol@chambermusicmontereybay.org
(831) 625-2212

For more information, visit the following links:
Music from Copland House
Michael Boriskin
Alexis Pia Gerlach
Curtis Macomber
Alexander Fiterstein
Piano Trio No. 1 in C minor, op. 8 (1923) by Dmitri Shostakovich
Living Frescoes(2012) by Kevin Puts
Fragrance of the Sea (2017)by Angel Lam
Piano Trio in D Minor, op. 120 (1923) by Gabriel Fauré

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

5th ANNUAL WHALEFEST MONTEREY to be held at Old Fisherman’s Wharf

Whale Watching Capital of the World!™ Inspire - Educate - Explore – Empower & Protect Our Beautiful Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary

Monterey, CA, November 05, 2014 - Over the past year, thousands of whale watchers have enjoyed viewing a variety of hundreds of whales, orcas, dolphins and pelicans who continue to feast on a “krill and anchovy buffet” in the Monterey Bay, in Monterey, California. A very special festival, Whalefest Monterey, celebrates its 5th year highlighting community efforts and building more awareness about the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, helping to educate, inspire, empower and protect it. Don't miss a free fun interactive family event for all ages that celebrates the migration of the gray whales, the Monterey Bay, and Old Fisherman's Wharf, while benefiting many local and national marine organizations.

On Saturday, January 24th and Sunday, January 25th, 2015 from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, the Monterey Old Fisherman's Wharf Association (www.montereywharf.com) will hold the 5th ANNUAL WHALEFEST MONTEREY at and around Old Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey, CA, the “Whale Watching Capital of the World™ .

Throughout the year, the Monterey Bay offers sightings of 15 species of whales, 10 species of dolphins and 2 species of porpoise, 6 species of pinnipeds and 1 species of Fissiped (sea otter). Visitors to the Monterey Bay can enjoy viewing six Baleen Whales that include Blue Whales, Fin Whales, Sei Whales, Humpback Whales, Gray Whales, Minke Whales and North Pacific Right Whales (rare). There are also eight toothed whales that include Sperm Whales, Baird’s Beaked Whales, Curvier’s Beaked Whales, Pygmy Sperm Whales, Dwarf Sperm Whales, Stejneger’s Beaked Whales, Blainville’s Beaked Whale sand Hubb’s Beaked Whales. The Monterey Bay also features 9 dolphin species including Orcas (Killer Whale), Northern right whale Dolphins, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Risso’s Dolphins, Bottlenose Dolphins, Short-beaked Common Dolphins, Long-beaked Common Dolphins, Striped Dolphins, Short Fin Pilot Whales and the False Killer Whale (rare).

There are two porpoise species including Harbor Porpoises and Dall’s Porpoises. There is one Fissiped, the Southern Sea Otter. There are also four Otariid Pinnipeds including Guadalupe Fur Seals, Northern Fur Seals, California Sea Lions and Northern Sea Lions (Steller Sea Lions). There are also two Phocid Pinnipeds, including Harbor Seals and Northern Elephant Seals. (Source: Monterey Bay Marine Life Studies).

Among the highlights will be a symposium with lectures and documentaries related to ocean and marine life conservation presented at the Museum of Monterey, Stanton Center (MoM) Auditorium and the Wharf Theatre, musical and theatrical performances with a maritime theme, and many educational displays by participating organizations.

Thousands of attendees are expected again this year that range from local families and school children who want to learn more about our maritime environment to visitors from near and far who want to explore the annual whale migration. The event will also feature a science credit program for students from university level to schoolchildren. Weather permitting, whale watching tours will be operating from the Wharf, and Wharf restaurants will be serving a variety of small bites.

The two days will feature a wide array of fun and informative activities including:

* A 60-foot model gray whale (attendees can climb inside)

* Live musical performances will be provided by Nick Fettis & His Orca-stra, and a number of local bands playing rock, reggae, and jazz.

* Whale watching trips on Monterey Bay will run all day from the wharf, weather permitting, including an American Cetacean Society Benefit Whale Watching Cruise at 8:00 am on Sunday, January 25th.

* Award-winning documentaries and lectures by world renowned scientists will focus on the Pacific Current System.

* Expert panelists including scientists and business leaders.

* “Sea creatures” from Save the Whales will be interacting with attendees and providing marine and event information.

* Beach and street cleanups by The Wahine Project and by Marine Life Studies (Take It to the Streets) and Save Our Shores.

* Shark and Humboldt Squid will be dissected.

* Mock Whale Disentanglement demonstrations.

* Gyotaku (Japanese fish printing) demonstrations staffed by volunteers from the Japanese American Citizens League.

* Historic walking tours by maritime historian, Tim Thomas.

* U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will have several displays that may include Coastie the Safety Tug Boat, its rescue boat and a Coast Guard 29' Transportable Response Boat and Auxter, the Otter.

* Local marine photography fundraiser exhibit and drawing at Museum of Monterey Stanton Center – Stanton Center (MoM), 5 Custom House Plaza.

Other activities to be announced!

Participating Marine Conservation Organizations:

Local national and international marine conservation organizations will line the Causeway at Old Fisherman’s Wharf or give presentations at the Museum of Monterey.

Past participants included:

* American Cetacean Society
* BLUE Ocean Film Festival and Conservation Summit
* California Coastal Commission
* California State Parks
* Camp SEA Lab
* City of Monterey Environmental Program
* Hopkins Marine Station of Stanford University
* Marine Life Studies
* Marine Mammal Center
* Monterey Academy of Oceanographic Science
* Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
* National Marine Sanctuary
* Monterey Green Action
* Monterey History and Art Association
* Monterey Public Library
* Monterey Peninsula Regional Water Authority
* Monterey Peninsula Yacht Club
* Monterey Regional Water Pollution Control Agency
* Moss Landing Marine Laboratories
* Pacific Grove Museum
* Pacific Shark Research Center
* PUACF
* Save Our Shores
* Save the Whales
* Sea Save Foundation
* Surfrider Foundation – Monterey Chapter
* The Marine Mammal Center
* The Otter Project
* U.S Coast Guard Auxiliary

For more information, to volunteer or to become a sponsor, call Bob Massaro at (831) 649-6544 or email Bob at bmassaro@bostrommanagement.com and check out the website at www.montereywharf.org

Contact:
Wendy Brickman
Brickman Marketing
395 Del Monte Center #250
Monterey, CA 93940
831-633-4444
http://www.montereywharf.org

“Crab Mania” at Monterey's Old Fisherman's Wharf to Celebrate Dungeness Crabbing in the Monterey Bay

Do you love Dungeness Crab? Many award-winning restaurants at Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf are participating in the special “Crab Mania" at Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf celebrating fresh Dungeness Crab from the Monterey Bay.

Monterey, CA, November 05, 2014 - Do you love Dungeness Crab? Many award-winning restaurants at Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf are participating in the special “Crab Mania" at Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf celebrating fresh Dungeness Crab from the Monterey Bay. The recreational Dungeness Crab season kicks off November 1st and the commercial Dungeness Crab season starts on November 15th and goes through June.

In addition to Dungeness Crab, locals and visitors can enjoy a wide array of delicious entrees at Old Fisherman’s Wharf including other fresh seafood, Alaskan crab, steaks, pasta and much more. Many Monterey Wharf restaurants will be serving some great locally caught Dungeness crab entrees when the commercial season kicks off and they also offer Alaskan crab during the rest of the year.

Here are just a few of the delicious crab entrees visitors to Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf can enjoy:

At Nino’s Wharfside
Dungeness Crab steamed with drawn butter, steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes or rice.

At Paluca Trattoria
Dungeness Crab Cioppino style with capers, black olives, crushed pomodoro (tomato), Pinot Grigio, and Italian flat leaf parsley.

At Old Fisherman’s Grotto
Crab Cakes with Dungeness Crabmeat, lightly breaded and grilled, served with Sun Dried Tomato Aioli and Mango Sauce.

At Domenico’s on the Wharf:
Dungeness Crab Scampi style with garlic, white wine, olive oil and angel hair pasta.
Recreational Dungeness Crab fishing and other fishing trips can also be booked at Randy’s Fishing Trips or Chris' Fishing Trips daily on Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf.

About Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf
A visit to the beautiful Monterey Peninsula just isn’t complete without a rendezvous with Old Fisherman’s Wharf in downtown Monterey that was built in 1845 for regular passenger and freight service. Known as the “Whale Watching Capital of the World” and a top destination of visitors from around the world, Monterey’s Old Fisherman's Wharf provides a wide array of award-winning dining, shopping, live theater, special events, whale watching, bay cruises, a glass bottom boat, marine life, fishing and sailing, and strolling leisurely in a gorgeous setting overlooking the Monterey Bay. Savor delicious cuisine at a myriad of fabulous restaurants featuring stunning views and award-winning Italian food, sustainable seafood, steaks including the region’s famous clam chowder and calamari.

Enjoy salt water taffy, homemade chocolates, caramel apples, cotton candy and many other yummy treats. View sea otters, sea lions, dolphins, whales, sea birds and other wildlife up close and personal that also share the Wharf. Watch people who have gone out and caught their own fish on the local and chartered fishing boats return with their own “catch of the day”. Celebrate the first location in Monterey County where tender abalone was cooked and served in a restaurant. Check out the many fun shops to find the perfect memento of your visit and a variety of unique gifts. Bring your friends, family, and dogs (on leash) for a wonderful visit from morning to evening. Enjoy the exquisite views and the “best place to walk and people watch” in Monterey County!

Visitors to Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf continue to “Enjoy the Wonders of the Wharf” free VIP Card promotion available on the website with 27 special offers. Situated near downtown Monterey, Old Fisherman’s Wharf is conveniently located along the Monterey Bay Recreation Trail and has plenty of nearby parking. For more information about Old Fisherman’s Wharf, go to www.montereywharf.com or call 831.238-077

About Wharf Walks
Recreational Dungeness Crab Season begins on November 1st and Commercial Crab Season begins November 15th and goes through June 30th. Crabs will inspire the theme of Wharf Walks! The Monterey Fisherman's Wharf Association continues to team up with noted Monterey Bay Fisheries Historian and author, Tim Thomas, who is offering monthly "Wharf Walks -Walking Tours at Monterey's Old Fisherman's Wharf" (www.montereywharf.com) on the first Saturday of every month from 10:00 AM - Noon.
Wharf Walks will be held on Saturday, November 1st and Saturday, December 6th focusing on "Crabbing on the Monterey Bay." Tours meet at the head of Old Fisherman's Wharf (near the pink "Harbor House" store, #1 Old Fisherman's Wharf, Monterey. Advance reservations are required by calling Tim Thomas at (831) 521-3304 or via email timsardine@yahoo.com.

The tour is for ages 10-adult only and the cost is $20 for adults and kids are $15 (10-15 years). Group Rates are also available. Future Wharf Walks will be held on November 1st and December 6th, continuing on the first Saturday of every month in 2015.

After taking the Wharf Walk, participants are invited to enjoy a complimentary appetizer of delicious calamari (squid) - either traditional style or pesto calamari - with a purchased entrée, at Paluca Trattoria located at the head of the Wharf.

About Wharf Walks
For thousands of years people have made their living fishing the Monterey Bay, beginning with the Rumsien Ohlone, the Native People of the Monterey area. From abalone to rockfish, everything was fished and utilized and the Monterey Bay was a multi-cultural stew, made up of whalers from the Azores, squid fishermen from China, salmon fishermen and abalone divers from Japan, and Sicilians fishing sardines in the "dark of the moon." This entertaining tour of Old Fisherman's Wharf and the waterfront will take us back in time to explore the history of the Monterey Wharf, early history of the Monterey waterfront, The Rumsien/Ohlone People--Monterey's first fishermen, the abalone industry, whaling the bay and of course, the legendary sardine industry. Discover some of the people and cultures of Monterey's colorful past and hear fascinating stories about Old Fisherman's Wharf and those who worked and walked there. Learn more about the sardine and squid industry, too.

About Tim Thomas
Tim Thomas, fourth-generation native of the Monterey area, is a popular speaker and lively tour guide. For 16 years, he was historian and curator for the Monterey Maritime & History Museum and has worked with the Monterey Bay Aquarium, California State Parks and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. He is author of "The Abalone King of Monterey: 'Pop' Ernest Doelter," "The Japanese on the Monterey Peninsula" and co-author of "Monterey's Waterfront."

For more information about Old Fisherman’s Wharf, go to www.montereywharf.com or call 831.238-0777.

Contact:
Wendy Brickman
Brickman Marketing
395 Del Monte Center #250
Monterey, CA 93940
831-633-4444
http://www.montereywharf.com

"Wharf Walks - Walking Tours at Monterey's Old Fisherman's Wharf" with to focus on "Squid Tales of the Monterey Bay" on Saturday, October 4th, 2014

Wharf Walks will be held on Saturday, October 4th focusing on "Squid Tales of the Monterey Bay."

Monterey, CA, October 04, 2014 - The Monterey Fisherman's Wharf Association continues to team up with noted Monterey Bay Fisheries Historian and author, Tim Thomas, who is offering monthly "Wharf Walks -Walking Tours at Monterey's Old Fisherman's Wharf" on the first Saturday of every month from 10:00 AM - Noon.

Wharf Walks will be held on Saturday, October 4th focusing on "Squid Tales of the Monterey Bay." Tours meet at the head of Old Fisherman's Wharf (near the pink "Harbor House" store, #1 Old Fisherman's Wharf, Monterey. Advance reservations are required by calling Tim Thomas at (831) 521-3304 or via email timsardine@yahoo.com.

The tour is for ages 10-adult only and the cost is $20 for adults and kids are $15 (10-15 years). Group Rates are also available. Future Wharf Walks will be held on November 1st and December 6th, continuing on the first Saturday of every month in 2015.

NEW! After taking the Wharf Walk, participants are invited to enjoy a complimentary appetizer of delicious calamari (squid) - either traditional style or pesto calamari - with a purchased entree at Paluca Trattoria located at the head of the Wharf.

Squid Mountain in Monterey- Circa 1930

About Wharf Walks
For thousands of years people have made their living fishing the Monterey Bay, beginning with the Rumsien Ohlone, the Native People of the Monterey area. From abalone to rockfish, everything was fished and utilized and the Monterey Bay was a multi-cultural stew, made up of whalers from the Azores, squid fishermen from China, salmon fishermen and abalone divers from Japan, and Sicilians fishing sardines in the "dark of the moon." This entertaining tour of Old Fisherman's Wharf and the waterfront will take us back in time to explore the history of the Monterey Wharf, early history of the Monterey waterfront, The Rumsien/Ohlone People--Monterey's first fishermen, the abalone industry, whaling the bay and of course, the legendary sardine industry. Discover some of the people and cultures of Monterey's colorful past and hear fascinating stories about Old Fisherman's Wharf and those who worked and walked there. Learn more about the sardine and squid industry, too.

About Tim Thomas
Tim Thomas, fourth-generation native of the Monterey area, is a popular speaker and lively tour guide. For 16 years, he was historian and curator for the Monterey Maritime & History Museum and has worked with the Monterey Bay Aquarium, California State Parks and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. He is author of "The Abalone King of Monterey: 'Pop' Ernest Doelter," "The Japanese on the Monterey Peninsula" and co-author of "Monterey's Waterfront."

About Monterey's Old Fisherman's Wharf:
Visitors to Monterey's Old Fisherman's Wharf will want to plan their visit to include lunch or dinner at one of the many Wharf restaurants. Many restaurants will be featuring special Columbus Day Weekend small bites during the upcoming Everything Italian! Columbus Day Weekend Celebration on October 11 and 12, 2014.

By gong to montereywharf.com visitors to Monterey's Old Fisherman's Wharf can also access the "Wonders of the Wharf" free VIP Card promotion with 25 special offers (coupons) easily accessible on the website that can be shown on a smart phone or iPad.

Monterey's Old Fisherman's Wharf
A visit to the beautiful Monterey Peninsula just isn't complete without a rendezvous with Old Fisherman's Wharf in downtown Monterey that was built in 1845 for regular passenger and freight service. Known as the "Whale Watching Capital of the World™" and a top destination of visitors from around the world, Monterey's Old Fisherman's Wharf provides a wide array of award-winning dining, shopping, live theater, special events, whale watching, bay cruises, a glass bottom boat, marine life, fishing and sailing, and strolling leisurely in a gorgeous setting overlooking the Monterey Bay. Savor delicious cuisine at a myriad of fabulous restaurants featuring stunning views and award-winning Italian food, sustainable seafood, grass-fed steaks, including the region's famous clam chowder and calamari. Enjoy salt water taffy, homemade chocolates, caramel apples, cotton candy and many other yummy treats. View sea otters, sea lions, harbor seals, dolphins, whales, sea birds and other wildlife "up close and personal" that also share the Wharf. Watch people who have gone out and caught their own fish on the local and chartered fishing boats return with their own "catch of the day".

Celebrate the first location in Monterey County where tender abalone was cooked and served in a restaurant. Check out the many fun shops to find the perfect memento of your visit and a variety of unique gifts. Enjoy the exquisite views and the "best place to walk and people watch" in Monterey County!

Situated near downtown Monterey, Old Fisherman's Wharf is conveniently located along the Monterey Bay Recreation Trail and has plenty of nearby parking.

For more information about Old Fisherman's Wharf, go to www.montereywharf.com or call (831) 238-0777.

Contact:
Wendy Brickman
Brickman Marketing
395 Del Monte Center #250
Monterey, CA 93940
831-633-4444
http://www.montereywharf.com

Call for Submissions of Marine Photographs for “Images of Monterey Bay: A Marine Photography Fundraiser Benefiting Whalefest Monterey and Museum of Monterey”

Attention local amateur and professional photographers in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties!

Monterey, CA, August 02, 2014 - Attention local amateur and professional photographers in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties! Grab your cameras and smart phones and head out to the Monterey Wharf and beautiful Monterey Bay on foot, kayak, boat, or paddleboard, etc. and take some photos of our abundant marine life – whether it’s a whale, otter, sea lion or other denizens of the sea.

The Monterey History and Art Association, Museum of Monterey-Stanton Center and Whalefest Monterey have issued a Call for Submissions of marine-themed photographs by local photographers from both Monterey and Santa Cruz counties for its upcoming “Images of Monterey Bay: A Marine Photography Fundraiser.”

Up to thirty photos will be selected and exhibited at the Museum of Monterey, 5 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, CA, beginning Saturday, November 15, 2014 through Sunday January 25, 2015 at Whalefest Monterey 2015 on Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf (January 24-25, 2015). The photos will be subsequently donated to a drawing that benefits both the Museum and Whalefest Monterey. For more information, go to the events page at www.montereywharf.com or www.museumofmonterey.org or call Pete Rerig at (831) 372-2608.

About the “Images of the Monterey Bay” Submission Process:
The subject matter of the photos should be marine life and activities photographed locally. The prints can be any size up to 16x20 inches, black and white or color, and should be mounted on a board so they can be displayed on an easel. On the back of the board should be the photographer’s name and a brief description of the subject matter, where and when taken, and any technical details of the shot.

Initial submissions of up to three photos should be made in digital form to Pete Rerig at pete.rerig@montereyhistory.org . The deadline for submissions is October 15, 2014. Accepted mounted prints need to be delivered to the Museum of Monterey by November 7, 2014. The quality of the prints needs to match that of the electronic entry, especially with regards to resolution. Whalefest Monterey 2015 reserves the right to reject the prints if they don’t meet quality standards.

Up to 30 photos total will be selected by the Museum of Monterey’s curators. They will be displayed on easels throughout the Museum beginning Saturday, November 15, 2014 until the last day of Whalefest on Sunday, January 25, 2015. Many of Whalefest’s lectures, presentations and documentary screenings will take place at the Museum on January 24 and 25. Intellectual property rights remain with the photographer.

While the photos are on exhibit, patrons who visit the Museum of Monterey may purchase tickets for a drawing to win one or more photos of their choice by placing tickets into individual receptacles for each photo. A drawing from each receptacle will be held to determine the winner of that particular photo on January 25, 2015. Winners do not need be present to win. Winners may pick up the prints at the Museum, or have them sent to them, and then shipping and handling charges will apply.

For more information, email kasaylor@ix.netcom.com.

Contact:
Wendy Brickman
Brickman Marketing
395 Del Monte Center #250
Monterey, CA 93940
831-633-4444
pr@straightlinepr.com
http://www.BrickmanMarketing.com

Monterey's Old Fisherman’s Wharf Association Continues “Wharf Walks at Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf” on Saturday, August 2nd with a Focus on the Maritime History of the Monterey Bay

Monterey's Old Fisherman’s Wharf Association continues to team up with noted Monterey Bay Fisheries Historian and author, Tim Thomas, who is offering monthly “Wharf Walks”

Monterey, CA, July 31, 2014 - Monterey's Old Fisherman’s Wharf Association continues to team up with noted Monterey Bay Fisheries Historian and author, Tim Thomas, who is offering monthly “Wharf Walks” -Walking Tours at Old Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey (www.montereywharf.com) on the first Saturday of every month from 10:00 AM – Noon. Wharf Walks continues on Saturday, August 2nd with "Monterey Old Fisherman's Wharf Walk: Focus on the Maritime History of the Monterey Bay." Tours meet at the head of Old Fisherman’s Wharf (near the pink “Harbor House” store, #1 Old Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey. Advance reservations are required by calling Tim Thomas at (831) 521-3304 or via email timsardine@yahoo.com. The tour is for ages 10–adult only and the cost is $20 for adults and kids are $15 (10-15 years). Group Rates are also available.

For thousands of years people have made their living fishing the Monterey Bay, beginning with the Rumsien Ohlone, the Native People of the Monterey area. From abalone to rockfish, everything was fished and utilized and the Monterey Bay was a multi-cultural stew, made up of whalers from the Azores, squid fishermen from China, salmon fishermen and abalone divers from Japan, and Sicilians fishing sardines in the “dark of the moon.” This entertaining tour of Old Fisherman’s Wharf and the waterfront will take us back in time to explore the history of the Monterey Wharf, early history of the Monterey waterfront, The Rumsien/Ohlone People--Monterey's first fishermen, the abalone industry, whaling the bay and of course, the legendary sardine industry. Discover some of the people and cultures of Monterey’s colorful past and hear fascinating stories about Old Fisherman’s Wharf and those who worked and walked there. Learn more about the sardine and squid industry, too.

Tim Thomas, fourth-generation native of the Monterey area, is a popular speaker and lively tour guide. For 16 years, he was historian and curator for the Monterey Maritime & History Museum and has worked with the Monterey Bay Aquarium, California State Parks and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. He is author of "The Abalone King of Monterey: 'Pop' Ernest Doelter," “The Japanese on the Monterey Peninsula” and co-author of “Monterey’s Waterfront.”

For more information, go to www.montereywharf.com

Contact:
Wendy Brickman
Brickman Marketing
395 Del Monte Center #250
Monterey, CA 93940
831-633-4444
pr@straightlinepr.com
http://www.BrickmanMarketing.com