Monterey Symphony Announces Final Virtual Back-to-Back Balcony Session Performances (May 28 and June 4)

  The Monterey Symphony is broadcasting the final virtual performances of the 20/21 season from their Carmel-by-the-Sea balcony on Friday, May 28, 2021 at 4 PM (PT) and June 4, 2021 at 4PM (PT).

 

Carmel, CA, May 27, 2021 - The Monterey Symphony is broadcasting the final virtual performances of the 20/21 season from their Carmel-by-the-Sea balcony on Friday, May 28, 2021 at 4 PM (PT) and June 4, 2021 at 4PM (PT).

The May Balcony Session features MSO’s principal clarinetist Sarah Bonomo. Julia Sarah Bonomo (purposefully initialed after J.S. Bach) was destined for a musical life from the beginning. Sarah has always been driven toward musician-hood, transferring from taking naps under her mother's piano as a child to taking up the clarinet as an adolescent. Currently Ms. Bonomo is an active freelance clarinetist in the San Francisco Bay Area and the founder of an unconducted chamber orchestra named One Found Sound.

The final session will be held exactly one week later and is an encore performance of the violin and cello duo who performed back in September of 2020 for one of the very first Balcony Sessions. Adelle-Akiko Kearns, MSO’s Principal cellist and MSO violinist Eugenia Wie will perform on June 4.

The duo had such a great time at their first Balcony Session performance that they immediately requested a second session from MSO Executive Director Nicola Reilly who said, “We can’t think of a better way to close out the series.”

Full program details and artist’s bios 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

The Buzz PR, LLC.

Salinas, CA

(831) 747-7455

http://www.montereysymphony.org

Protect Your Home from Devastating Wildfire by Attending Free Defensible Space ‘Boot Camp’ on June 12, 2021 in Carmel Valley

 Carmel Valley, CA, May 26, 2021 — On the heels of the first-ever evacuation of Carmel Valley due to wildfire, the state is entering one of the driest seasons in recorded history, threatening to be the worst fire season to date. 

With that in mind, the Robles Firewise Group is hosting a free defensible space “boot camp” on June 12, featuring presentations by Robles Firewise, Ember Defense, and Vulcan Vents; information from vendors, community businesses and organizations; and prize drawing during each of three sessions (or platoons) scheduled that day. The event is a fundraiser for three local non-profits: Cachagua Volunteer Fire Department, Monterey County Regional Fire District’s Benevolence Fund and Robles Firewise Group. 

The event will be held on Saturday, June 12, 2021 at the Carmel Valley Village Fire House, 26 Via Contenta. There will be three platoon times: 10:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m.; 12:30-2:00 p.m. and 2:30-4:00 p.m. Tickets are free with a suggested $15 donation to cover the costs of the event; no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Due to COVID restrictions, attendees must pre-register at www.roblesfirewise.com . However, if tickets are still available attendees may register on-site as well. Free parking will be available on Via Contenta and at Tularcitos Elementary School. 

The event will help to educate residents on how to harden and protect their homes to increase their chances of their homes surviving a wildfire. It’s important for our community to be proactive and work in conjunction with state and county agencies to ensure the safety of our neighborhoods. 

The event will highlight a new defensible zone — the Immediate Zone, otherwise known as the Ember-Resistant Zone or the Zero Zone — which is from 0-5 feet from a house or structure. Two companies that specialize in home hardening will present tips and strategies that homeowners can immediately utilize to harden their homes, and a burn trailer will demonstrate the vulnerability of common attic/soffit/foundation vents. Other agencies and organizations will be on site with educational information as well. 

Presentations will be given by:

>Robles Firewise Group will explain the Firewise mission, how communities become certified as Firewise, and the benefits to homeowners of certification.

>Ember Defense will discuss the defensible fire zones and provide helpful and inexpensive tips to protect/harden homes and structures.

>Vulcan Vents will discuss air vent safety and will have a burn trailer on site to demo the vulnerability of most vents to ember infiltration, which can lead to catastrophic home loss. 

Vendors, community business and organizations on hand include:

>Monterey County Regional Fire District (MCRFD)

>Monterey County Office of Emergency Services (MCOES)

>Fire Safe Council of Monterey County (FSCMC)

>Cachagua Volunteer Fire Department (CVFD)

>Carmel Valley Garden Club

>Ember Defense

>Vulcan Vents

>Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)

>Robles Firewise Group 

Sponsors include:

>Stonepine Estate

>Valley Hills Nursery

>Doug & Lisa Steiny: Sotheby’s International

>Hawk Ridge

>The Camp at Carmel Valley

>M.J. Murphy Lumber and Hardware

>Del Monte Fine Art

>Aabha Indian Cuisine

>UPS Mid-Valley 

Opportunity drawing grand prize: Ember Defense & Vulcan Vents will provide a complete retrofit of ALL air vents (attic, soffit and foundational) to the current WUI (Wildland-Urban Interface) code of 1/16th mesh for up to 3000 square-foot house. Labor and materials included. Retail value of $5,000. (Cost of footage overages can be negotiated with the company). 

Opportunity drawing platoon prize: One emergency go-bag will be given away for each of the 3 platoons. 

There will also be an online auction of products and services donated by local businesses. Examples include: 

>”The Ultimate Go-Bag” by VLES designs—Stocked with supplies that exceed FEMA/Red Cross standards. Good for 2 people for 72 hours. Retail value $350

>”Hollywood Celebrity Mixed Mystery Swag Bag” (geared toward a female celebrity). Approximate retail value of all items $700.

>“In-Home Disaster Preparedness Consultation”’ by Peace of Mind Preparedness: Retail value $225

>Valley Hills Nursery gift certificate: $250

>Big Sur Vineyards: Private tasting for 6 with owner. Retail value $150. 

U.S. Congressman Jimmy Panetta will make an appearance. 

For more information on the event, contact Marci Bracco at  marci@thebuzzpr.net  or by calling (831) 747-7455; or Stacey Wood at roblesfirewise@gmail.com or by calling (650) 440-9704; or Damon Wood at damonwoodphd@gmail.com  or by calling (650) 248-4785.

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

ARIEL Theatrical is Honored to Announce a Generous Two-year Grant Award from the Harden Foundation

  The Harden Foundation is dedicated to supporting organizations and encouraging partnerships that benefit the residents of Monterey County. 

Salinas, CA, May 26, 2021 - ARIEL Theatrical is honored to announce a generous two-year grant award from the Harden Foundation. In addition to the financial support, the Harden Foundation Executive Director, Joe Grainger, offered these encouraging words: "We know that nonprofit organizations in our community will be faced with unforeseen challenges in the coming year(s) as they struggle to maintain services while dealing with a deadly pandemic and a reduction in funding sources. We are dedicated to doing everything we can to support and promote the nonprofit sector in our communities."  

The Harden Foundation is dedicated to supporting organizations and encouraging partnerships that benefit the residents of Monterey County. ARIEL Theatrical has been providing programs for youth for more than 35 years and is committed to helping young people learn to lead principle-centered lives by practicing Accountability, Respect, Integrity, Excellence and Leadership, in life and on stage. As ARIEL rebounds from more than a year of pandemic restrictions, the Harden Foundation has stepped up to champion their efforts and support their return to theatre education, performance and outreach.  

Located at 320 Main Street in the beautifully renovated Oldtown neighborhood of Salinas, ARIEL is a resource for the entire community. ARIEL is a safe and nurturing gathering place for young people where engaging programs and family-friendly entertainment take center stage. Visit the ARIEL Theatrical website to learn more about ARIEL's mission, programs, dedicated staff and board of trustees. www.arieltheatrical.org  

Heather Kirk
Executive Director
831.775.0976 | www.arieltheatrical.org
320 Main Street, Salina


Mail all correspondence to:
P.O. Box 1268 Salinas, CA 93902

 

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

VNA celebrates 70 years by Honoring its Employees, Volunteers and Holding Unique Movie-night Fundraiser

  Following a year with little to smile about, VNA prepares to celebrate its 70th anniversary in 2021 by honoring its selfless volunteers and employees, followed by a unique summer fundraising event. 

Monterey, CA, May 25, 2021 - Since 1951, the not-for-profit 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 has existed in various forms over the years,” said VNA’s Chief Executive Officer, Jane Russo. “What hasn’t changed is our core mission, and the amazing people wanting to give back and provide care, creating that trusted compassion.” 

This week is National Volunteer Week (April 19-25), and Russo believes it is vital to honor VNA’s compassionate crew of volunteers who donate their time and boundless energy to the cause. Many of those volunteers assist hospice patients by visiting, reading, standing vigil, holding a hand, and providing families with respite. 

“There is respectfulness of being together, and sharing the emotional element of making someone’s life better,” Russo said. 

 VNA has expanded greatly over the years, and the local program has several arms of quality care. VNA Community Services provides wellness, and aids in immunizations through experienced, professional registered nurses. As the only travel health clinic, VNA provides comprehensive consultation and immunizations for international travelers. Health screenings and education are offered to corporate businesses, in the field or in the boardroom. Nurses provide services to local schools to meet state-mandated screenings, vaccines, and staff education. 

The home health division offers key specialty programs, including: Cardiac, Connections, Diabetic, Orthopedic, and Palliative Care. And, of course, VNA Hospice provides a specialized type of care for those facing a life-limiting illness, a peace of mind for their families and their caregiver. The care involves a team-oriented approach to expert medical care, pain management, and emotional and spiritual support tailored to the patient’s needs and wishes. 

On June 26, the VNA family and supporters will gather at the Monterey County Fairgrounds (5-7 p.m.) for a drive-in style movie night. We will feature a video release of looking back at VNA’s 70-year history. VNA will bring in a food truck and provide a full bar. Individual tickets and sponsorships will be available beginning April 19.

“We hope the community can join us in looking back at 70 amazing years while embracing a brighter future,” Russo said. 

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

 

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

El Pájaro CDC Welcomes and Celebrates Partnership with Staff of Life

  El Pájaro CDC is a non-profit organization that offers culturally relevant services to underserved and underrepresented entrepreneurs throughout the Central Coast. 

Watsonville, CA, May 19, 2021 — In recognition of the recent inauguration of the Staff of Life Natural Foods Market in Watsonville, El Pájaro Community Development Corporation (El Pájaro CDC) is excited to welcome them and continue a partnership that benefits several small businesses in our community! 

El Pájaro CDC is a non-profit organization that offers culturally relevant services to underserved and underrepresented entrepreneurs throughout the Central Coast. We support our clients in launching their businesses and developing their brands by providing no-cost information, training, resources, and business loans. Now, in collaboration with Staff of Life, we are working to take our clients’ small businesses to the next level by opening the door to a wider market that allows them to sell their products at a larger scale. 

About Staff of Life Natural Foods Market

In 1969 Gary Bascou and Richard Josephson founded Staff of Life Bakery in the Santa Cruz, CA area. Their goal was to make nourishing and natural old world-style bread as a healthy alternative to the highly processed and chemical-laden bread that dominated the market. At the time there was no clear definition of “organic” but Gary and Richard sought out the best ingredients that aligned with their principles. They found wheat from family farms that were still practicing traditional agricultural methods that were pesticide-free and healthy for both individuals and the planet: essentially the principles of what is now considered organic farming. 

Over time the bakery grew into Staff of Life Natural Foods Market and helped create and fuel a natural foods and organic movement that is now widely accepted, all while maintaining their principles and tradition of working with regional producers and local family farms to provide the best quality products. 

 “We take pride in our history of working with and helping boost the growth of small producers in our community.  It allows us to further our mission of providing delicious natural and organic foods while supporting our local economy,” said Jason Bazarnick, co-owner of Staff of Life Natural Foods Market. 

About Our Partnership

At El Pájaro CDC, we provide our clients with the resources and tools they need to launch and/or create their product, including access to our kitchen incubator where many of our clients prepare their food-related products. However, one of the challenges that new small businesses often experience is a lack of network and marketing skills that prevents them from successfully promoting and expanding their brand and products. 

To help remedy this issue, we partnered with the team at Staff of Life Natural Foods Market, and together we are helping our community’s small businesses thrive as they now have the exposure they need to serve a wider consumer base. We acknowledge that the process of working with small producers requires additional work and effort as a commercial store, and for that, we appreciate the commitment of the Staff of Life team in this collaboration and praise their continuation of this tradition. 

We encourage all of our community members to visit their store and help us support small businesses while also making healthier choices that benefit you and your family. 

 

This is a list of some of the products you can find at Staff of Life and that directly support our local entrepreneurs and small businesses:

 My Mom’s Mole - award-winning mole packaged in powder form and refrigerated for additional versatility. Made with 25 spices and ingredients, it is vegetarian and vegan-friendly! (Currently only available at the Santa Cruz location). 

Hakouya Probiotics - healthy, delicious products that will add flavor to your life and probiotics to your gut. Hakouya’s Miso is a must-try! 

El Nopalito Produce - fresh nopales that are locally grown, paddled, and processed. Free of pesticides and other harmful chemicals.

Teresa’s Gourmet Foods - tasty fresh salsas and simmer sauces made with all-fresh ingredients, and that contain no additives or preservatives. Teresa’s Salsas products are also vegan and gluten-free! 

Quinoa from Agripacific Trading Co. - bringing you a variety of organic and gluten-free quinoa from Bolivia, an excellent source of protein, fiber, and many other vitamins and minerals. It can be found in the bulk section of the store where you can take as much or as little as your heart desires. 

Berries and produce from Sun Valley Farms - offering a select variety of fresh and locally-grown berries and produce, farmed and harvested in organic-certified land. 

The Green Waffle - offering an array of frozen waffles; each loaded with wholesome ingredients and NEVER adding sugar, artificial flavors, or preservatives. The Green Waffle is a great healthy and delicious on-the-go breakfast option! 

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

Mee Memorial brings the ER to Homes throughout South County via New ‘virtual front door’ System

 Considered a “virtual front door” to the emergency room, Mee Memorial Healthcare System (MMHS) will soon offer patients the ability to register and actually begin an ER visit online. 

King City, CA, May 18, 2021 -- Considered a “virtual front door” to the emergency room, Mee Memorial Healthcare System (MMHS) will soon offer patients the ability to register and actually begin an ER visit online.

 The new multi-channel healthcare delivery solution that integrates virtual and in-person care is scheduled to launch May 18. 

Integrating virtual and physical emergency care ensures a nimble response to every situation for each patient. It allows MMHS to better meet increasing demands of the pandemic, to treat many patients from the safety of their home, and to provide the community with upgraded emergency care. 

With any internet-enabled device, patients can complete a short online chat with a virtual medical assistant and then meet with an ER clinician who conducts a video evaluation. Some patients may be treated entirely from home, while others will be directed to the emergency room or referred to a local urgent care or primary care clinic. 

A key advantage over other virtual healthcare services, such as telehealth, is that patients visit their local ER doctors and providers not a remote provider. Providers can immediately access MMHS medical records to discuss the patient’s situation over a video call. Providers can also coordinate with other doctors and caregivers. And, they are familiar with the community and available resources that can aid recovery. 

If an in-person ER visit is necessary, it is treated as one continuous visit. While the patient heads to the hospital, the ER staff can prepare for the patient’s arrival and order any needed tests in advance. 

Mee Memorial Healthcare System CEO Rena Salamacha likens it to a concierge service. 

“Emergencies can feel chaotic. We want it to be simple to find help,” she said. “This new service allows patients to quickly talk to trained ER doctors who can help them choose the right setting for their care.” 

The HIPPA-compliant system that powers the new virtual entrance to ER uses a combination of sophisticated artificial intelligence, developed by emergency medicine doctors, alongside real medical professionals that verify each interaction. 

A spin-off of the nonprofit research organization SRI International, Decoded Health, developed the technology in partnership with Vituity, a physician-owned, acute care solutions provider with more than 300 practice locations nationwide. 

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

Monterey Symphony Announces Return to Live Performances and Music Director Search

  The Monterey Symphony will be resuming its Music Director search beginning February of 2022. 

Carmel/Monterey, CA, May 18, 2021 – The Monterey Symphony will be resuming its Music Director search beginning February of 2022. Four finalists – Donato Cabrera, Peter Bay, Jung-Ho Pak, and Jayce Ogren – will conduct a weekend of concerts with the Symphony at Sunset Center in Carmel. Full bios can be found on the Symphony’s website.

 

The Symphony launched its search for a new Music Director in January of 2019. Music Director Emeritus Max Bragado-Darman officially retired in May of 2020. The Symphony was scheduled to bring the four finalists in starting October of 2020, but the pandemic prevented any full orchestra performances. The Symphony intends to appoint its next Music Director in May of 2022. 

The finalists will each be joined by a soloist. 

CABRERA (February 19 and 20, 2022) featuring Julian Schwarz, cello 

BAY (March 19 and 20, 2022) featuring Simone Porter, violin 

PAK (April 16 and 17, 2022) featuring Rachel Barton Pine, violin 

OGREN (May 14 and 15, 2022) featuring Philippe Bianconi, piano 

Full programming details will be announced September 1, 2021. The Symphony also anticipates announcing a fall season later this summer, pending county health guidelines. 

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. 

For press inquires, contact: Nicola Reilly, Executive Director, nreilly@montereysymphony.org  or 831-645-1131 (Direct). 

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