Goodwill Central Coast expands e-commerce workforce, moves into larger facility in Salinas

  In July of 2017, Goodwill Central Coast opened its centralized e-commerce facility on Moffett Street in Salinas.

 Salinas, CA, March 04, 2021 — In July of 2017, Goodwill Central Coast opened its centralized e-commerce facility on Moffett Street in Salinas. In less than four years, the tri-county nonprofit’s online sector has grown from five employees to 26. 

These jobs involve varied work in photography, jewelry authentication, distribution/transportation, technology and management. And it’s not just the workforce that has expanded. The division has moved from its 11,000-square-foot facility to a new home with more than 18,000 square feet. This includes a state-of-the-art distribution center, new photography studio and a spacious new jewelry center. 

What’s more, its listing capacity has increased dramatically, as it currently adds nearly 1,000 new items online for donors and customers per day. Each day this team of specialists sorts through thousands of goods in an effort to gather and document coveted items to put up for sale at Shopgoodwill.com, Ebay.com and amazon.com. 

From a leadership standpoint, Goodwill Central Coast has appointed Amber Vick as Regional Director of Stores and E-commerce. Vick previously oversaw the retail store locations in Monterey and Santa Cruz. Vick joins the current e-commerce management team of Patrick Sagara (e-commerce manager), Dawn Lockwood and Jorge Huerta-Becerra (both assistant managers). 

“Together the updated management team brings a wealth of training, knowledge and experience to Goodwill Central Coast,” said Alan Martinson, vice president of retail. “This team is focused on career growth of their staff, and this is where we see the biggest benefits long term.” 

The expansion is aligned with Goodwill Central Coast’s mission to invest in technology and infrastructure to help create jobs of the future. 

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, retail e-commerce across the country reached $211.5 billion in the second quarter of 2020, up 31.8 percent from the first quarter, and 44.5 percent year-over-year. E-commerce also accounted for 16.1 percent of total retail sales in the second quarter, up from 11.8 percent in the first quarter. 

While much of this growth can be attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic, the future of e-commerce is one of strong, steady growth. 

“Goodwill Central Coast is focused on our mission of creating jobs and removing barriers to employment,” Martinson said. “The GCC e-commerce division is a shining star in the nonprofit world, providing opportunity to learn skills in the technology job segment and provide growth for those who would like to learn.” 

GCC’s Information Technology department has deployed the latest advancements to enhance operations. This not only makes Goodwill Central Coast more efficient, it provides vast training for individuals with the desire to learn about e-commerce, and the opportunities within the industry. 

“Yes, it helps support GCC by shopping online or in our store locations, however it is the generous donations from our community that make it possible,” Martinson said. 

GCC’s online items represent a treasure trove of items that were generously donated to support programs. The e-commerce team has developed a short list of items to donate that help the most: jewelry, musical instruments, electronics, artwork, trading or game cards, video games and systems. 

“Items are usually in good condition,” Martinson said. “These items are carefully expedited and auctioned off to the highest bidder. We appreciate all donations and continued support of our job programs.” 

Goodwill designed its virtual marketplace to provide an engaging online shopping destination. Consumers enjoy what Martinson likes to call “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. 

The Salinas team ships hundreds of items each day, from gold jewelry to clothing, musical instruments and more. The engaging site showcases new items and items leaving the gallery, it tracks a Hot 50, entices buyers with coupon codes and offers shipping deals as low as 1 cent. GCC has also resumed some customer pick-ups of online orders (with restrictions) at the facility, 1566 Moffett St., Salinas. 

Nationwide, Goodwill has generated more than $560 million in online sales since launching the site in 1999. Goodwill Central Coast’s e-commerce division sees roughly $2 million in annual revenue, but Martinson expects that to grow significantly next year. While the average price of an item in Goodwill’s brick-and-mortar stores is between $4-$5, the online platform sells items averaging in value between $30 and $40. 

All this added revenue helps fund a growing number of programs that have served tens of thousands of individuals facing barriers to employment. 

About Goodwill Central Coast

Goodwill Central Coast, a private 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, began in 1928 in the city of Santa Cruz and today has expanded into three counties: Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Luis Obispo. Goodwill Central Coast now employs more than 600 people, including employment training professionals, sales personnel, donation center attendants, warehouse and distribution workers, and administrators. Its programs strengthen communities by improving job growth, the lives of individuals and families, and the health of our environment. Each year Goodwill assists more than 9,000 job seekers get back to work and reclaim financial and personal independence. Goodwill provides a positive learning environment that creates brighter futures through connecting people to meaningful work.

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

GBA Coach Joey Ramos

A good coach can inspire a child for life, and no one believes that more than Joey Ramos.

Salinas, CA, August 05, 2020 - Born in Lapaz, in the Philippines, Ramos came to Soledad with his parents and three siblings when he was just 6 months old. “My parents wanted to give their children a better life with more opportunities,” he said.

An extremely shy child, Ramos discovered basketball in the fourth grade. “Our coach, Mr. Godoy, would coach us from his kind heart,” he said. “We practiced after school three days a week and he personally would drive us to Salinas to play on Saturdays.”

The experience had a huge impact on Ramos, who today lives in Salinas and coaches two GBA select girls teams.

“Playing with a team made me open up and feel comfortable with other people, and has made me become the person I am today,” he said. “It helped with my social skills. To this day, I’m always happy and excited to meet new people.”

In 2002 Ramos was asked to help as an assistant coach for his niece’s basketball team. “That’s where it opened up a new adventure for me to coach basketball,” he said. “It was what I needed to share my love of the game and help other kids that loved the game, too.”

In 2011 he coached his nephew’s team for Steinbeck Elementary in Salinas. Aside from his GBA work, Ramos currently coaches the 7th and 8th grade girls teams at Gavilan View Middle School.

His experience with GBA began nine years ago when he was introduced to GBA co-founder Jose Gil.

“Coach Gil opened up new experiences,” Ramos said. “I could not imagine working with large groups of kids, ranging from kindergarten to high school. It opened up new competitive experiences with GBA select travel teams. It’s all had an impact on how I coach.”

For Ramos, the most rewarding aspects of coaching have happened off the court.

“It’s all about preparing them for the next level of their game, sure, but also in life,” he said. “To use the same elements of respect, commitment, dedication, passion, and the hunger to learn more in everything you set your mind to.”

Ramos is grateful he’s able to support his community, and help open doors for a better future. “Their growth in becoming young adults earns them the same respect, commitment, dedication and the passion they have experienced learning the game and becoming leaders themselves,” he said.

In the end, it’s all about the love of a game that brings to participants many bonuses.

“The excitement I see in our youth, learning together, meeting new friends, having fun, has been the most rewarding,” he said. “Their big smiles are what fuels me!”

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

Everyone’s Harvest Certified Farmers’ Markets in Marina, Pacific Grove and Salinas Continue to Provide Safe Access to Healthy Food

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/

Everyone’s Harvest Certified Farmers’ Markets at Natividad in Salinas Slated to Open June 17 Celebrate National Fruits and Vegetable Month at Natividad

Everyone's Harvest Certified Farmers' Markets at Natividad in Salinas opens Wednesday, June 17, in time to celebrate June as National Fruits and Vegetable Month.

Salinas, CA, June 14, 2020 — Everyone's Harvest Certified Farmers' Markets at Natividad in Salinas opens Wednesday, June 17, in time to celebrate June as National Fruits and Vegetable Month.

The market will open from 11:00 am to 3:30 pm with three vendors: 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.

The market will be open every Wednesday, and more vendors and farmers will be added as the summer goes on. Natividad is located at 1441 Constitution Blvd. in Salinas.

Everyone's Harvest Farmers' Markets adhere to guidelines created in collaboration with Monterey County Health Department, California Department of Public Health, and California Alliance of Farmers' Markets, and will be operating under an order from the County of Monterey Health Department determining that certified farmers' markets are "essential businesses."

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

About Natividad
Natividad is a hospital and trauma center providing high-quality health care to everyone in Monterey County, regardless of ability to pay. Located in Salinas, Calif., Natividad is a public health care system offering a wide range of inpatient, outpatient, emergency, diagnostic and specialty medical care. Founded in 1886, the 172-bed medical center has more than 10,000 admissions and over 50,000 emergency visits annually. Home to the area's only Level II Trauma Center, the hospital's specialized personnel, equipment and services provide a vital local community service that saves lives and keeps patients close to home. Natividad's Baby-Friendly® facility delivered more than 2,200 babies last year and is affiliated with UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals. It also operates an accredited Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, giving the tiniest and most fragile babies — some as small as one pound — the best chance for a healthy start. Through its UCSF-affiliated Natividad Family Medicine Residency, Natividad is the only teaching hospital on the Central Coast. For more information, please call (831) 755-4111 or visit www.natividad.com.

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 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.

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

Everyone’s Harvest Certified Farmers’ Markets in Marina, Pacific Grove and Salinas Now Open, Two More in Salinas Slated to Open in Mid-June

Everyone’s Harvest Certified Farmers’ Markets in Marina, Pacific Grove and Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System in Salinas are now open, with two more in Salinas slated to open in mid-June.

Marina, CA, June 5, 2020 — Everyone’s Harvest Certified Farmers’ Markets in Marina, Pacific Grove and Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System in Salinas are now open, with two more in Salinas slated to open in mid-June.

The other Everyone’s Harvest certified farmers’ markets in Salinas, one at Women, Infants And Children (WIC) offices at 632 East Alisal St., and the other at Natividad Medical Center at 1441 Constitution Blvd., will open on June 16 and June 17, respectively. Both markets will be smaller, modified markets with social distancing plans in place. All markets have strict social distancing and thorough sanitation plans in place.

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. The Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System Certified Farmers’ Market is open on Fridays from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m., at 450 East Romie Lane, in Salinas. All are operating as essential businesses in the community and to ensure that fresh food is available to local residents.

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

>Chef Soerke Peters of Mezzaluna Pasteria & Mozzarella Bar in Pacific Grove, offering select pastas and sauces from the restaurant’s Retail Pasta menu.

>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, Triple Delight Blueberries of Fresno and 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.

Everyone’s Harvest also announced it now has a new market program manager to help coordinate all markets, 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 SVMHS 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 will adhere to guidelines created in collaboration with Monterey County Health Department, California Department of Public Health, and California Alliance of Farmers' Markets, and will be 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 and Pacific Grove 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/

JD Solís takes Full Advantage of Every Opportunity

Wedged into the southeast corner of California, between the Mexico border and the Colorado River, the city of Calexico offers limited opportunities beyond seasonal farming and government work.

Salinas, CA, April 02, 2020 - As a fifth-grader, José David (JD) Solis didn’t understand the reasons behind his parents’ decision to pick up and move the family 525 miles north to Salinas.

Today, JD is 16 and a sophomore at Alisal High School, and fully recognizes the relocation as a turning point in his young life.

“Now I look back and realize that it was actually a blessing to move here,” he said. “The number of opportunities I receive here is higher than if we had stayed in Calexico.”

One of those opportunities came through Gil Basketball Academy. At first JD found it difficult to find friends, and to assimilate into his new environment.

“It was very different from Calexico, so just adapting to the city and everything was challenging,” he said.

Gil Basketball Academy helped JD both socially and academically.

“It opened so many doors for me,” he said. “I’ve met so many new people and created so many new friendships. I think my favorite thing in GBA is, of course, being able to play with all my friends, but it’s the bond we all built at the academy. It’s all one big family on and off the court.”

Through Gil Basketball Academy’s select travel team, JD has ventured to far-flung places — including Mexico and Italy. What’s more, GBA’s emphasis on education reveals an often-obscured path to college.

“My goal is to attend a nice college and play ball,” he said. “With a good education you can do anything as long as you put your mind to it. GBA prioritizes that. What happens in the classroom always comes first.”

When it comes to his own education, JD gives full credit to his parents. His mother works for Opportunity Fund (providing loans to low- and moderate-income immigrants, women and underserved small business owners). JD’s father is a freshman AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) teacher at Alisal High, helping prepare students for success beyond high school.

JD has a sister in fifth grade and a brother who is a senior at Alisal — and both play for GBA.

“Playing basketball has helped make me into the person I am today,” JD said. “It has taught me a lot, on and off the court.”

The 5-foot, 9-inch shooting guard was part of the 2019 junior varsity team that went 20-4, and was called up late in the season to help the varsity squad in the playoffs.

“One of the most important things I learned from the game was that failure is a way of life, and you shouldn’t hang your head or feel sorry for yourself,” he said. “Being a part of a team made me realize that you can’t do everything on your own.”

Without his immediate family and his GBA family, JD said he would be completely lost.

“I have no clue where I’d be right now,” he said. “I don’t think I would be on the streets or anything because of my amazing parents. They’re always there for me when I need them, they always believe in me and they wouldn’t let me throw away my future.”

JD said GBA taught him how to love his community and be more appreciative of the things he has in life.

“It really is one of the best things to happen to me and this city,” he said. “It helps the whole community, but especially kids who don’t have that much support at home. It keeps kids active, here playing ball and not on the streets.”

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

JDRF Hosts its Second Annual Western-Themed Kickoff Party for One Walk Fundraiser on Aug. 29 in Salinas

The Monterey County chapter of JDRF, the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research, hosts a Western-themed kickoff party for its annual One Walk fundraiser on Aug. 29, in Salinas.

Salinas, CA, August 15, 2019 — The Monterey County chapter of JDRF, the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research, hosts a Western-themed kickoff party for its annual One Walk fundraiser on Aug. 29, in Salinas.

The second annual event, 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 29, 2019, at Taylor Farms Rooftop, 150 Main St., Salinas, features a strolling dinner, saloon spirits, and live music from the Money Band Duo.

Special guests include Dennis Caprara, Katherine Lipe, Maddie Meeks, Carter Moore-Tope, along with co-chair “Wranglers” Sandi Eason, Margaret D’Arrigo-Martin and Jim Lipe.

Reward levels include Maverick, Ranchero, Bushwacker, and Rustler.

Please RSVP to (415) 597-6306 or email esliwkowski@jdrf.org.

JDRF One Walk, a two-mile walk whose goal is to create a world without type 1 diabetes (T1D), is set for 9 a.m. (check-in at 7:30 a.m.) Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, at Lovers Point Park, 630 Ocean View Blvd., in Pacific Grove.

About JDRF
JDRF is the leading global organization funding type 1 diabetes (T1D) research. JDRF’s strength lies in its exclusive focus and singular influence on the worldwide effort to end T1D.

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that strikes both children and adults suddenly. It has nothing to do with diet or lifestyle. There is nothing you can do to prevent it. And, at present, there is no cure.

JDRF works every day to change the reality of this disease for millions of people — and to prevent anyone else from ever knowing it — by funding research, advocating for government support of research and new therapies, ensuring new therapies come to market and connecting and engaging the T1D community. Founded by parents determined to find a cure for their children with T1D, JDRF expanded through grassroots fundraising and advocacy efforts to become a powerhouse in the scientific community with dozens of U.S. locations and six international affiliates. JDRF has funded more than $2 billion in research to date and made significant progress in understanding and fighting the disease.

Founded in 1970 as the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, the name was later changed to emphasize how the organization planned to end the disease, adding a word to become the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Today, an equal number of children and adults are diagnosed every day — approximately 110 people per day, so a few years ago, the name was changed to JDRF:

* To remove the misconception that T1D is only a childhood disease
* To acknowledge that nearly 85 percent of people living with the disease are over age 18
* To reinforce our commitment to funding research that improves life for people at all ages and all stages of the disease

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

Journalist and Author Esmeralda Montenegro Owen Will Hold Book Signings for Her First Book in April and May in Salinas

Author and journalist Esmeralda Montenegro Owen will hold book signings in Salinas in April and May for her book.

Salinas, CA, March 24, 2019 - Author and journalist Esmeralda Montenegro Owen will hold book signings in Salinas in April and May for her book, “Beautiful - 7 Steps to the Best Version of You,” the first of four books in her “Beautiful” series.

At 6 p.m. on Saturday, April 27, 2019, she will hold a book signing at Sherwood Hall, 940 N. Main St., Salinas. At 7 p.m. she will emcee the Noche Bohemia event and sign books at 9 p.m. after the event.

The Noche Bohemia is a unique event of poetry, music and visual art. The concept of The Noche Bohemia in Salinas was initially brought forward by Adela Castillo and Jose Alejandro Moran to offer the community a unique event where poetry, music, painting, photography and art coalesced into a romantic experience.

Montenegro Owen will also give a presentation and hold a book signing 4:00-8:00 p.m. Friday, May 10, 2019, at Northridge Mall, 796 Northridge Dr., Salinas.

Montenegro Owen is Executive Director for Youth Orchestra Salinas (YOSAL). A native of El Salvador, Esmeralda came to the U.S. when she was in sixth-grade to escape ongoing civil war. She graduated from the University of Southern California with a dual degree in Broadcast Journalism and Spanish and from Notre Dame de Namur University with a Master in Public Administration.

She worked as a broadcast journalist for 10 years with Telemundo and Univision, earning a nomination for an Emmy Award for investigating reporting, while working as a news anchor and producer for Univision 67 in Monterey, CA. Esmeralda once taught journalism at Gavilan College; was the Director of Communications, Marketing, and Public Relations for Hartnell College in Salinas; and Curator of Marketing and Community Engagement at the National Steinbeck Center.

She is involved in a number of committees and boards that promote education, health, the arts, and self-esteem. Some of her involvement includes: emcee for the annual Noche Bohemia; board member and VP for Informed Choices in Gilroy; is a past Board Member for the Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce; is on the Marketing Committee for Girls Inc. of the Central Coast; is co-chair of Juntos Podemos (Together We Can), and others.

"Each chapter includes personal quotes, an affirmation, takeaways, questions to self-reflect, and an area for sketching or take notes," said Owen. She is thankful to have this book finally published after 2 1/2 years of writing and re-writing. Her goal is to increase the love for self and unlock the potential within each reader who comes across her work.

For more about Esmeralda, go to www.esmeraldamontenegro.com.

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

Balance Physical Therapy Adds Two Highly Advanced Anti-Gravity Treadmills to its Monterey and Salinas Locations

Balance Physical Therapy and Human Performance Center further cemented its reputation as being the most patient-focused and results-oriented rehabilitation facility in Monterey County by adding two highly advanced anti-gravity treadmills to its Monterey and Salinas locations.

Salinas, CA, March 04, 2019 - Balance Physical Therapy and Human Performance Center further cemented its reputation as being the most patient-focused and results-oriented rehabilitation facility in Monterey County by adding two highly advanced anti-gravity treadmills to its Monterey and Salinas locations.

The AlterG® Anti-Gravity Treadmill™ is a space-age treadmill that uses a pressurized air chamber to reduce the gravitational load on the body, so those recovering from post-operative injuries can exercise unrestricted and pain-free.

According to the company’s website, the AlterG® “integrates patented, NASA Differential Air Pressure (DAP) technology, a precise air calibration system, and real-time information to change what’s possible in rehab and training. Using a pressurized air chamber to uniformly reduce gravitational load and body weight in precise 1% increments, AlterG enables patients and athletes to move unrestricted and pain-free — restoring and building muscle strength, range of motion, balance, function, and fitness. No other unweighting technology offers as much freedom, control, and versatility.”

Adding the two high-tech machines is in line with Balance Physical Therapy’s goals when it was established in June 2002 by Dr. John Farahmand, a board-certified orthopedic clinical specialist, when he opened his first facility in Salinas. His goal was to be dedicated to being the most patient-focused, results-oriented rehabilitation facility in Monterey County.

“With ten physical therapists and three athletic trainers on our team, we're one of the largest private physical therapy clinics in Monterey County and the only one with clinics in both Monterey and Salinas,” said Farahmand, a native of Salinas who attended local schools. “And we’re one of the only clinics here that successfully bridges the gap between rehabilitation and wellness by offering programs like post-discharge gym memberships, fitness classes, personal training, Pilates for bone health, and massage therapy to our patients. We build relationships with our patients that stand the test of time.”

Balance currently has six physical therapists in Salinas and four in Monterey, all with doctorates and many who have also pursued even more education in the form of Board Certification in Orthopedics, Manual Therapy Certification, Certification as Strength and Conditioning Specialists, Lymphedema Specialists, and experts to help with Dizziness, Imbalance, and Vertigo. They'll also be adding Pelvic Health Specialists shortly!

All of Balance’s physical therapists frequently attend continuing education courses, serve as mentors and clinical instructors for graduate students, and speak on a variety of topics in the local community. In fact, the therapists hold a “journal club” every two weeks to go over medical journals to hone their skills and techniques and research new developments in physical therapy.

In addition to physical therapy, Balance also offers 18 group classes per week to patients, including Pilates for Bone Health, balance and fall prevention, high-intensity circuit training and massage therapy. Classes range from 10 to 30 people each.

Expansion is definitely in the future, with new clinics and strategic partnerships planned. "Growth is important," says Farahmand, "It not only gives us the opportunity to serve more patients, it gives our therapists opportunities for growth as professionals."

Even with all the physical therapists, high-tech equipment and administrative duties running involved with operating Balance Physical Therapy, Farahmand enjoys getting in the trenches, as it were.

“It’s what I love the most, to get in and work with patients, and to see them make progress” said Farahmand. “The heart and soul of our practice is hands-on patient care and the relationships that we develop along the way.”

ABOUT BALANCE PHYSICAL THERAPY®
Founded in June 2002, by Dr. John Farahmand, who grew up in Monterey and attended local schools, Balance Physical Therapy® and Human Performance Center is dedicated to being the most patient-focused, results-oriented rehabilitation facility in Monterey County.

Balance Physical Therapy® achieves that goal by the application of highly skilled manual therapy, prescribed therapeutic exercise, and patient education, forming a team with its patients that is committed to returning them to an active lifestyle.

Dr. Farahmand graduated from the University of California at Los Angeles with degrees in Psychobiology and Business Administration before pursuing his Doctorate in physical Therapy at the University of Southern California.

In addition to Dr. Farahmend, there are 10 physical therapists at Balance Physical Therapy®, all tops in their field. Dr. Joseph Melo and Dr. Miguel Vargas, both local, are the Directors of the Monterey and Salinas clinics, respectively. All of the physical therapists are committed to constant improvement in the areas of their clinical expertise, exercise interventions, advanced rehabilitation techniques, and the latest in research and science.

In order to maintain the highest standards of professional excellence, all of the physical therapists frequently attend continuing education courses, serve as mentors and clinical instructors for graduate students, and speak on a variety of topics in the local community.

Balance Physical Therapy now has two locations, in Monterey and in Salinas, to better serve the community’s needs.

Balance Physical Therapy Monterey
2260 N. Fremont St., Monterey, CA 93940
831-372-4782
monica@balancept.com
https://www.balancept.com

Balance Physical Therapy Salinas
143 John St., Salinas, CA 93901
831-422-4782
jessica@balancept.com
https://www.balancept.com

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

Salinas-Based Beefy Boys Beef Jerky Co. contest to gift up to 20 Pounds of Locally Crafted Jerky to its Monterey County, California customers to celebrate the BEEFY BOYS® brand’s 20th Anniversary!

If you live in Monterey County, California, keep your eyes peeled for those “Golden Tickets” in 2019.

Salinas, CA, December 31, 2018 — If you live in Monterey County, California, keep your eyes peeled for those “Golden Tickets” in 2019. If you see a “Gold” Ingredient label on Beefy Boys Jerky in the year 2019, you just might be Gifted a pound of Beefy Boys Beef jerky!

The gifting of jerky is meant to celebrate Salinas-based Beefy Boys Beef Jerky’s 20th Anniversary in 2019. There will be 2,000 Golden Tickets (bags with a gold colored ingredient label and a unique lot number of 1 to 2000). For every 100 Golden Tickets, one lot number will be selected for its finder to be gifted a pound of Jerky, with the selected number being listed on the Beefy Boys jerky Facebook page BEFORE it is delivered to a local Monterey County, California store, subject to all Facebook Contest Rules. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Numbers listed in advance at: https://www.facebook.com/LocaleJerky. One winner per ticket, with the FIRST person to name the 1) Store Name 2) Store Location and 3) Time and Date that they discovered the winning ticket to be gifted the pound of jerky. Call the number on the bag or post this information to our Facebook page, under the photo of the winning bag.

Beefy Boys jerky uses local ingredients, is locally owned, locally made, and locally distributed in Monterey County, California. Look for Beefy Boys Jerky in all Monterey County Safeway Stores, and nearly 200 other grocery stores, wineries, brewing companies & retails shops throughout Monterey County, CA.Questions should be emailed to info@Top10Produce.com.

No purchase is required, and the bags bearing the Golden Tickets can be discovered only in Monterey County retail stores that currently supply Beefy Boys brand beef jerky. One golden ticket number per 100 tickets (20 total potential winners) will be selected in advance of placement in the store. The tickets have no cash value and there will only be one winner per ticket.

Beefy Boys Beef Jerky Co.
https://www.ourlocale.org
Phone: 888-669-2010
Fax: 831-422-0180
1319 Burton Avenue - Suite C
Salinas, CA 93901

This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. You understand if you choose to post on the Facebook page for Beefy Boys Jerky Co. that you are providing your information to the owner of this Facebook page and not to Facebook.

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

Explore the Towns of Marina, Salinas and Seaside, California Outdoor Adventure, Foodie Finds and Undiscovered Gems Await!

Outdoor adventures. Diverse dining. Rich cultural history. Monterey County is home to all of these unforgettable experiences — and you can discover these in the towns of Marina, Salinas and Seaside along California's Central Coast.

Monterey, CA, December 19, 2018 – Outdoor adventures. Diverse dining. Rich cultural history. Monterey County is home to all of these unforgettable experiences — and you can discover these in the towns of Marina, Salinas and Seaside along California's Central Coast. Though these three towns occasionally stand in the shadow of their more popular neighbors like Carmel, Monterey and Big Sur, they're still can't-miss hubs for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies and history buffs alike. Explore these undiscovered gems for a unique experience you'll remember for years to come.

Marina: The Height of Beachside Tranquility

Do you enjoy a nice day (... or two or three) on the beach? Then you must visit Marina, located right on the water in Monterey County. Marina State Beach offers plenty of great waves for avid surfers, as well as sand dunes that provide a home for all sorts of exotic birds and animals. The well-marked Dune Nature Trail gives you a full rundown of the creatures located among the dunes, making this a truly unique beach experience.

And after a long day on the beach, Marina offers plenty of intriguing dining options. Head to English Ales Brewery for locally brewed beer paired with a comprehensive menu of pub grub. Or if you're looking to try one of Monterey County's newest and most buzzed-about restaurants, Salt Wood Kitchen & Oysterette offers delicious raw, cured or wood-fired takes on your favorite dishes.

Salinas: A Unique Combination of Culture and Agriculture

Salinas isn't just the home of Nobel Prize laureate John Steinbeck. It's also a notable agricultural hub, lovingly called "America's Salad Bowl" as a nod to the many crops grown in the Salinas Valley. You can learn more about the farming techniques being put to work in Salinas at Ag Venture Tours, which gives you a full sensory experience of the many greens grown in this region. But that's not the only sensory experience in the area. The River Road Wine Trail offers wine lovers the chance to trek along River Road and visit nearly a dozen award-winning wineries.

After exploring all that grows in Salinas, learn more about the favorite son of Salinas, John Steinbeck, at the National Steinbeck Center. Full of interactive exhibits and fascinating artifacts from his life, this museum gives you a personal, one-of-a-kind look at the life of a great American. Then, if you are hungry for more, stop by The Steinbeck House to see his childhood home and enjoy a delicious lunch. Once you've had your fill of all things Steinbeck, get your fill of locally

grown cuisine at 201 Main in Oldtown Salinas. With an extensive wine list and an eclectic menu of fresh food, 201 Main has something for everyone.

Seaside: Monterey's Coastal Neighbor

Located just to the north of Monterey, Seaside is sometimes overlooked by visitors who tend to head toward its more popular neighbor. In Seaside, you can fill your day with a diverse range of outdoor activities and delicious dining options. Seaside is home to Fort Ord National Monument, a beautiful stretch of rolling hills and over 83 miles of trails. It's a favorite for mountain bikers, but it's also perfect for a relaxing stroll.

For a full day of outdoor fun, hit the links at Bayonet and Black Horse, two challenging golf courses that offer stunning bay views. Ready for a relaxing meal after a day outdoors? Then get ready for a big authentic Italian meal at Gusto, some of the most delicious Italian food on the peninsula.

While in Seaside, make sure to explore recently revitalized Broadway Avenue. The downtown artery was updated with expanded sidewalks, newly planted trees and designated bike lanes. On Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. the street plays host to a year-round certified farmers market with a bounty of local produce and products.

The fact that Monterey County's lesser-known towns are so packed with culture and activities proves something the locals know to be true: Monterey County has endless activities to explore and places to discover. It's a place to go on adventures, enjoy delicious food and learn about California history. Plan your trip and find out more today at SeeMonterey.com.

ABOUT MONTEREY COUNTY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU
The Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau (MCCVB) is a 501c6 organization that drives tourism for Monterey County. Tourism is the largest industry on the Monterey Peninsula and the second largest in the County. The MCCVB is a partnership of the hospitality community and local governments that aims to drive business growth through compelling marketing and targeted sales initiatives that maximize the benefits of tourism to our guests, members and the community. Travel spending in Monterey County was $2.85 billion in 2017, representing a 3.5 percent increase from 2016. This $2.85 billion in visitor spending supported 24,990 jobs, contributed $255 million in total taxes and generated $127 million local tax dollars that directly benefited the community.

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

10th Annual Embracing Mental Health Wellness & Recovery Conference on October 2nd

A FREE one-day mental health conference and consumer art show in Salinas!

Salinas, CA, September 20, 2018 - This conference is designed to introduce useful tools to implement the innovative concepts of wellness & recovery. Participants also have the ability to view works of art created by consumers of mental health services. This is our 10th year of providing trainings and techniques that can be an asset on the road to recovery.

Check-in starts at 8:30 AM.

Trainer:

Bruce Anderson, MRA, Managing Partner at Community Activators, Inc.

“Stories Work! Using Stories for Helping, Community Outreach, and Advocacy”

The use of stories has always been a foundational practice in healing and advocacy conversations. Now, with mental health services expanding beyond clinical services and including recovery, housing, employment and other community based activities, it is necessary to re-evaluate how professionals, advocates, and the people they serve can use stories in additional ways. This training is designed for professionals, advocates, and peers who are interested in expanding their storytelling skills and using stories in new ways as they serve others.

Lunch will be provided.

6 CEUs will be provided.

Continuing Education Information:

To receive CE credits, participants must:

Attend the course in its entirety. Partial credit for partial attendance cannot be granted.

Sign-in and sign-out at the beginning and end of the day, respectively.

Complete and turn in an evaluation for the course.

Following successful completion of the course:

CE Certificates either will be:

Handed out at the end of the training or

E-mailed to participants within 2 weeks of the date of the training.

BBS Licensure:

Stories Work! Using Stories for Helping, Community, Outreach, and Advocacy meets the qualifications for 6.0 hours of Continuing Education credit for LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs, and/or LEPs as required by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences.

Monterey County Behavioral Health (MCBH) is approved by the California Association of Marriage and Family Therapists to sponsor continuing education for LMFTs, LCSWs, LPCCs, and/or LEPs. MCBH {Provider Number 70472) maintains responsibility for this program/course and its content.

Contact Information:

Accommodations related to access or food:

Interim, Inc. Wellness Conference Committee: 831-800-7530 x400 or acorres@interiminc.org.

Concerns or Grievances

Carmen Torres, LMFT, Employment & Wellness Services Director at 831-800-7530 x401 or ctorres@interiminc.org

MCBH's Policy regarding CE credits {Policy 207):

http://qi.mtyhd.org/index.php/ policies-and-procedures-2/

REGISTER TODAY

Interim, Inc.

Interim, Inc. is the only agency in Monterey County that provides affordable housing, residential treatment, social support, homeless outreach and support, family outreach, and supported education and employment services for adults who have serious mental illnesses.

Our mission is to provide services and affordable housing supporting members of our community with mental illness in building productive and satisfying lives.

We believe that housing, healing, and hope are a path to mental health.

P.O. Box 3222 Monterey, CA 93942 • 831-649-4522 • www.interiminc.org

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

Goodwill Central Coast Moves from Santa Cruz to Expanded New Headquarters in Salinas to Better Fulfill its Mission to Communities it Serves

Goodwill Central Coast has completed a more than a year long process of planning, renovating, and moving their headquarters from Santa Cruz to Salinas.

Salinas, CA, July 31, 2017 — Goodwill Central Coast has completed a more than a year long process of planning, renovating, and moving their headquarters from Santa Cruz to Salinas. The move will increase its operating space, improve efficiency and better fulfill its mission to help people find employment.

Since Goodwill Central Coast covers Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Luis Obispo counties, moving to Salinas centralizes its headquarters and with a bigger, more modern facility, will boost its efforts to train people in new careers and find them employment.

“It was a big decision on our part,” said Ed Durkee, Goodwill Central Coast President and CEO. “But this new facility was needed to meet the demands of our environmentally conscious community. The building is more modern, safer, more efficient, more centralized, bigger and can take more donations.”

The new facility, located at 1566 Moffett St. in Salinas, is more than double the size of the Santa Cruz location, and will house administrative offices, e-commerce, a salvage center, a donation center, a processing area and an outlet store.

The new headquarters will encompass 140 jobs. All employees who worked at the Santa Cruz headquarters have been offered jobs in Salinas or at other sites in Santa Cruz County. The relocation will also provide a chance to increase Goodwill's employee base in a more centralized location and to better help the local community.

A grand opening ribbon-cutting ceremony with Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce and Salinas Valley Chamber of Commerce will be held at the new headquarters from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. on September 20th. The Mayor of Salinas will be on hand to cut the ribbon.

Goodwill Central Coast, which covers Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Luis Obispo counties, is one of the region’s largest social enterprise and operates three career centers, five donation processing centers, 25 attended donation stations, 16 stores, and a vocational school. It also employs about 600 in three counties.

For many people, the barriers to employment are too high to overcome alone. Barriers like homelessness, military service, single parenting, incarceration, addiction, and job displacement can define a person’s identity, even when they have so much more to offer.

“Goodwill's goal is to ensure all of their community members know their worth and gain the skills and confidence to land a job that could turn their life around.” Anne Guthrie, VP of Workforce Services.

Each year Goodwill assists more than 13,000 job seekers to get back to work and reclaim financial and personal independence. Goodwill provides a positive learning environment that creates brighter futures through connecting people to meaningful work.

Some of the ways Goodwill helps people find employment include programs on culinary arts, catering services, free tax preparation and subsidized job placement.

Success stories
Jeremy is one of those employment success stories. Jeremy had problems getting a job because of mental health issues and a criminal background. After attending and graduating from the Culinary Training Academy, with assistance from Goodwill, he is now a prep cook at Jeninni’s Kitchen + Bar in Pacific Grove and is working his way up to sauté cook.

Gloria Organista came to Goodwill’s Career Centers after an unsuccessful job search. She enrolled in our workforce development workshops to brush up on her business and computer skills and after completion enrolled on Goodwill’s Organizational Work Program, OWP. She was placed in the Goodwill Career Center and received on-the-job training in administrative duties and was quickly hired as a HR Assistant. She continued her HR training and is now Goodwill’s HR Supervisor.

Another success story is Eduardo, a painter who lost his job during the rainy season due to lack of work. Eduardo went through Goodwill's OWP program in Monterey, trained in the store and worked with a trainer and employment specialist to find the right job for him. With the help of Goodwill staff, he was able to get a job with CSU Monterey Bay's maintenance department as a full-time painter. He now has a stable job with benefits, which allows his wife to stay at home and take care of their two young children.

A new way to shop
The Bargain Barn outlet center, one of two (the other is in San Luis Obispo), will also move to the Salinas location after more than four decades in Santa Cruz. Unlike Goodwill stores, outlet centers exist to move merchandise quickly, selling everything (except furniture) by the pound. The Salinas outlet center will sell its merchandise for $1.79 a pound.

“It has been very popular in Santa Cruz,” said Jim Burke VP of Retail and Operations. “You can potentially get a new outfit for $1.79, including shoes and accessories. The upcycling people like it too because they can get a dresser for $3 to $5. And it's good for the environment, otherwise it ends up in a landfill.”

Merchandise stays in stores for three weeks, then goes to the outlet centers. It's put out on the floor each morning, then merchandise is rotated throughout the day, a couple times each hour. And since items rotate constantly, each rotation brings a new treasure trove for bargain shoppers. “Shoppers are always introduced to new merchandise this way,” says Burke.

If still there by the end of the day, merchandise goes to a salvage operator, who will repurpose it for other uses. For example, clothing and other fabrics can be repurposed for insulation.

Furniture and other bulky items will still have price tags, but will also be clearance-priced in order for it to sell quickly.

About Goodwill Central Coast
The Goodwill Central Coast chapter, a private 501(c)3 non-profit organization, began in 1928 in the city of Santa Cruz and today has expanded into three counties: Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Luis Obispo.

Goodwill Central Coast employs over 600 people in Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Luis Obispo County, including employment training professionals, sales personnel, donation center attendants, warehouse and distribution workers, and administrators.

Goodwill believes that everyone deserves the chance to join their team, which is why Goodwill Central Coast is an equal opportunity employer and an advocate for the Americans with Disabilities Act.

To deliver their services, Goodwill relies on partnerships with federal and state workforce development agencies, as well as strong relationships with the local businesses that provide employment opportunities.

Goodwill Central Coast
566 Moffett St., Salinas
(831) 423-8611
http://www.ccgoodwill.org

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