Tuesday, November 19, 2019

Carmel Honey Company Opens Second Store Dec 3rd on Cannery Row in Monterey

Ribbon Cutting with Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce Announced Dec 3rd at 5:30 p.m.

Carmel, CA, November 19, 2019 — The Carmel Honey Co. is setting Cannery Row abuzz with the announcement that it will open a second store on Dec 3rd, 2019, at 700 Cannery Row, Suite Q, in Monterey. There will be a special ribbon cutting with the Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday, December 3rd at 5:30 p.m. The ribbon cutting is open to the public.

“We’ve been looking for a location in Monterey for quite some time and are super excited to partner with Cannery Row,” said Jake Reisdorf, founder and chief beekeeper of Carmel Honey Company.

The new store will feature premium honey, hive-related specialty products, unique honey gift packages, bee inspired apparel and their luxury bath and beauty line. You can also schedule a Mini Sweet Experience - Honey Education and learn the basics about bees, how honey is made and sample a variety of honey paired bites.

This is the second retail store for Jake and the CHC team. Their first store is located in Carmel By-the-Sea on the courtyard level of the Carmel Plaza. Stop by either location to taste honey samples, talk bees with Jake, and purchase a local gift that not only supports small business but also gives back.

Everyone is invited to the ribbon cutting ceremony coordinated by the Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday, Dec 3rd from 5-7 p.m.

For more information, call (831) 687-8511or go to www.CarmelHoneyCompany.com.

About Carmel Honey Company:
Jake Reisdorf is the owner of Carmel Honey Company. The business began as part of a school project when Jake’s 5th grade teacher was trying to get the class to think about the future. The teacher assigned professions to each student and directed them to research the profession, duties, compensation, etc. and return to class with a presentation to share their findings.

While researching his assigned profession of website designer, Jake, 11 years old at the time, decided to take it one step further and actually create a real website. At that time, Jake had taken one beekeeping class with his Dad and thought it would be cool to design a website about honey bees.

Not only did Jake get an “A” on the project, but it inspired him to start Carmel Honey Company.

Jake’s passion for honey bees grew as he learned about Colony Collapse Disorder and the benefits of real honey. Expanding his research and education drove Jake to learn more about honey and bees and ultimately decide it was critical to give back.

His “Jake Gives Back” program includes sharing honey bee knowledge with kids and adults of all ages. Whether he’s speaking to the Second Lady of the United States of America, a classroom of first-grade students, or at a corporate event talking with business owners and seasoned professionals, his passion and appreciation of how honey bees impact our world is infectious. CHC also “gives back” by making an annual financial donation to a honey bee research or education organization. So when you purchase something from Carmel Honey Company YOU are giving back to the honey bee.

Jake is currently 17 years old and a Junior at Carmel High School. When not attending class he, with the help of his family, manages his bee hives, works the retail stores, maintains connections with his honey wholesale accounts and processes online orders placed through his website from honey lovers all over the country. But his visionary retail stores are only the beginning for Jake. He’s now setting his sights on a state of the art, interactive, kid-friendly Pollination Center. A place where visitors can learn more about the key pollinators; birds, bats, butterflies & bees and discover why pollination is so important, not only our ecosystem but to our livelihood as human beings.

Since founding the company, Jake has won several awards, including SCORE Young Entrepreneur and CSUMB Start Up Challenge Winner in 2016; Young Beekeeper of the Year in 2017; California Small Business of the Year in 2018; SBDC Rising Star in 2019.

Carmel Honey Company
(831) 687-8511
www.CarmelHoneyCompany.com
www.Facebook.com/CarmelHoneyCompany
www.Instagram.com/CarmelHoneyCompany
www.Twitter.com/CarmelHoneyCo

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

Monday, November 18, 2019

Monterey County Nonprofit Max’s Helping Paws Foundation Announces Hiring of New Assistant Executive Director

Max's Helping Paws Foundation (MHPF), which provides a financial lifeline for pet owners with a pet in a health crisis, has announced Shelley Wise as its new Assistant Executive Director.

Del Rey Oaks, CA, November 19, 2019 — Max's Helping Paws Foundation (MHPF), which provides a financial lifeline for pet owners with a pet in a health crisis, has announced Shelley Wise as its new Assistant Executive Director.


Wise has 20-plus years as a healthcare professional and two years nonprofit management experience. Her last position was as full-time Assistant Director at Valley Health Associates in Salinas, California from 2017-2018.

“I am excited to find an organization that shares the same values that I do — helping families care for and protect their animals,” she wrote in applying for the position. “I am a passionate animal advocate with a mission to serve, which is why I returned to school. I have worked in both the private sector and non-profit settings, and have participated in all aspects of running a non- profit including budgeting and fundraising, which will enable me to support your mission and growth.”

Prior to Valley Health she was co-owner and chiropractor at Carmel Orthopedic and Sports Therapy, in Carmel, California from 1990 to 2017. She received her bachelor’s degree in Health Science from Kaplan University in Chicago, Illinois, and doctor of chiropractic degree from Palmer College in Davenport, Iowa. She received a master’s degree in Health Policy and Law from UC San Francisco and UC Hastings College of Law in San Francisco, California in 2018.

Wise’s hobbies include therapy dogs, paddle-boarding, working out, and volunteering for Gathering for Women. She is also a board member for Power Over Parkinson’s in Carmel.

About Max's Helping Paws Foundation
Max's Helping Paws Foundation was founded in 2016 to provide a financial lifeline for responsible Monterey County pet owners with a pet in a health crisis. Since it first started providing financial assistance in mid-2017, Max’s Helping Paws has approved more than $135,000 in financial assistance to pet families dealing with financial hardship.

https://www.maxshelpingpaws.org
(831) 704-6473
info@maxshelpingpaws.org
451 Canyon Del Rey Blvd., Del Rey Oaks, CA 93940

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

Friday, November 15, 2019

Etats-Unis Bistro in Carmel to Host ‘Howliday Fundraiser’ Featuring Special Doggie Menu With Monterey County Nonprofit Max’s Helping Paws Foundation

Etats-Unis French-American Bistro in Carmel will host a “Howliday Fundraiser” lunch featuring a special doggie menu, Dec. 7, 2019, to benefit Max's Helping Paws Foundation (MHPF), which provides a financial lifeline for pet owners with a pet in a health crisis.

Carmel, CA, November 14, 2019 - Etats-Unis French-American Bistro in Carmel will host a “Howliday Fundraiser” lunch featuring a special doggie menu, Dec. 7, 2019, to benefit Max's Helping Paws Foundation (MHPF), which provides a financial lifeline for pet owners with a pet in a health crisis.

From 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Saturday, December 7, 2019, 25% of all sales will go to MHPF. Etats-Unis has a dog-friendly patio with heat lamps and a special doggie menu, which includes a Puppuccino — fresh, steamed organic milk.

In addition, with the purchase of a meal you get a complimentary howliday pet photo by Richard Green Photography. Get your photos in time for your holiday cards! The photo will be emailed to within 72 hours of the event.

Dress you pet in their favorite outfit that day and the best-dressed pet will win a prize. The winner will receive either:

Wine tasting for six with the winemaker on the dog-friendly patio at Twisted Roots Winery in Carmel Valley.
One-night stay at Hofsas House Hotel in Carmel in a dog-friendly room.
A dog goodie basket.

Reservations Recommended. Space is limited. Email Amy astouffer88@gmail.com for your reservation.

About Etats-Unis
Located in Carmel, California, Etats-Unis pronounced (eh-taz-oo-nee) means United States, which represents Chef Soerke Peters’ menu choices and cooking techniques. Incorporating local ingredients into traditional French cooking from the Old World has always been a passion of his. Going back to basics is bringing back memories of his grandmother cooking in the kitchen in Germany. Experience traditional French comfort food prepared with an emphasis on taste, not theatrics. Savor favorites like Bouillabaisse, Escargot, Ratatouille, Charcuterie and much more. Chef Peters is a leader in sustainability on the Monterey Peninsula. Sourcing only the freshest local ingredients. Organic and farm to fork are not just words in his kitchen. He was just awarded the Ocean Hero Award from the Monterey Bay Aquarium in Monterey for his responsible sourcing of seafood and preserving our oceans for generations to come.

Etats-Unis Bistro
Address: Dolores between Fifth & Sixth avenues, Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921
Menu: etatsuniscarmel.com
Phone: (831) 238-6010

About Max's Helping Paws Foundation (MHPF)
Max's Helping Paws Foundation was founded in 2016 to provide a financial lifeline for responsible Monterey County pet owners with a pet in a health crisis. Since it first started providing financial assistance in mid-2017, Max’s Helping Paws has approved more than $135,000 in financial assistance to pet families dealing with financial hardship.

https://www.maxshelpingpaws.org
(831) 704-6473
info@maxshelpingpaws.org
451 Canyon Del Rey Blvd., Del Rey Oaks, CA 93940

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

Monday, November 11, 2019

Carmel French-American Bistro Etats-Unis Hosts Bark-N-Brunch Events on Sundays for You and Your Dog

Carmel French-American Bistro Etats-Unis wants you to bring your dog to brunch for a mimosa at its weekly Bark-n-Brunch events starting Dec. 1, 2019.

Carmel, CA, November 12, 2019 - Weekends are for sleeping in, tidying up your home, and enjoying a delicious brunch. And now, you can enjoy your eggs Benedict with your dog by your side. Etats-Unis welcomes brunch lovers and their pets to enjoy mimosas together at their weekly Bark-n-Brunch events.

Starting Dec. 1, every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., you can enjoy Etats-Unis’ French-American menu while your doggie can select from a pup friendly menu created by Chef Soerke.

Plus, your four-legged companions can also enjoy a Puppuccino — fresh, steamed organic milk — while you enjoy mimosas made with fresh oranges pressed to order from Etats-Unis’ old-fashioned French juicer.

To top it all off, 10% of all brunch sales benefits Max’s Helping Paws Foundation, a Monterey Peninsula non-profit that provides a financial lifeline for pet owners with a pet in a health crisis.

About Etats-Unis
Located in Carmel, California, Etats-Unis pronounced (eh-taz-oo-nee) means United States, which represents Chef Soerke Peters’ menu choices and cooking techniques. Incorporating local ingredients into traditional French cooking from the Old World has always been a passion of his. Going back to basics is bringing back memories of his grandmother cooking in the kitchen in Germany. Experience traditional French comfort food prepared with an emphasis on taste, not theatrics. Savor favorites like Bouillabaisse, Escargot, Ratatouille, Charcuterie and much more. Chef Peters is a leader in sustainability on the Monterey Peninsula. Sourcing only the freshest local ingredients. Organic and farm to fork are not just words in his kitchen. He was just awarded the Ocean Hero Award from the Monterey Bay Aquarium in Monterey for his responsible sourcing of seafood and preserving our oceans for generations to come.

Etats-Unis
831-238-6010
www.etatsuniscarmel.com
Breakfast & Lunch, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday - Sunday
Dolores Street between Sixth & Fifth avenues
Carmel, CA 93921

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

Thursday, November 7, 2019

Twisted Roots Winery Makes Holiday Shopping Easy with wine discounts, Free shipping, Gift packs

When it comes to spreading Christmas cheer this holiday season, nothing brings more joy than the gift of wine.

Carmel Valley, CA, November 08, 2019 - When it comes to spreading Christmas cheer this holiday season, nothing brings more joy than the gift of wine.

Let Twisted Roots Winery be your holiday headquarters for unique gifts that will surely bring smiles to any adult friend or family member.

It all starts with Black Friday, widely regarded as the first official day of the Christmas shopping season. Always celebrated on the day after Thanksgiving, this year’s Black Friday madness occurs on Nov. 29.

Avoid the chaotic shopping malls and head to sunny, tranquil Carmel Valley. Twisted Roots will offer a 30 percent discount on cases (including mixed varietals) purchased from the tasting room at 12 Del Fino Place. The discount extends to the online store (coupon code is CYBER) at www.twistedrootsvineyard.com/online-store, and includes free shipping.

What follows Black Friday? Cyber Monday, of course. Twisted Roots has you covered, offering free shipping from its online store, along with 40 percent off select varietals.

Interested in holiday gift packs? The Twisted Roots tasting room makes it easy to “grab-and-go with a pretty bow!” Pair an Old Vine Zin with a Chardonnay, or a Petite Sirah with a Sparkling Brut Rosé — all with savings of 30 percent off (tasting room only).

Finally, Twisted Roots offers gift certificates. Available on the bar in the tasting room, they allow the recipient to shop for what they want, when they want!

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

Wednesday, November 6, 2019

Carmel Jewish Film Festival Celebrates 10th Anniversary with Award-Winning Movies, Speakers, Receptions March 7 – 22, 2020

The 10th Annual Carmel Jewish Film Festival (CJFF), featuring 10 films from six countries, noted speakers, and panel discussions, will be held March 7-22, 2020.

Carmel, CA, November 07, 2019 - The 10th Annual Carmel Jewish Film Festival (CJFF), featuring 10 films from six countries, noted speakers, and panel discussions, will be held March 7-22, 2020. Starting in December, film and venue information, dates, and times can be found on the CJFF website (www.carmeljff.org). Tickets will be available either through the website or by calling (800) 838-3006 starting at the beginning of January.

Festival highlights include:

OPENING NIGHT (MARCH 7)

“Fiddler: Miracle of Miracles”

When "Fiddler on the Roof" opened on Broadway in 1964, it explored themes of tradition, religion, and anti-Semitism against a modern backdrop of radical social change that addressed gender roles, sexuality, and race. Rare archival footage and interviews with musical luminaries explore the legacy of this long-running, award-winning musical. London and Broadway theater star Alexandra Silber will entertain following the film and talk about her book, After Anatevka. A reception will precede the film.

“VIOLINS OF HOPE” (MARCH 8)

Marking the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, the Violins of Hope will visit Northern California and make an appearance at the Carmel Jewish Film Festival. Some of these violins were played in concentration camps to entertain Nazis and lift the spirits of fellow prisoners; others were played in ghettos and labor camps to earn money for food. These instruments were restored in Israel and are a testament to the remarkable resilience of the human spirit. The CJFF is partnering with the Monterey County Symphony and Chamber Music Monterey for this event.

Following a film about the Violins of Hope, renowned violinist Cookie Segelstein of Berkeley, CA, will play some the actual instruments, tell their stories, and talk about the cultural significance of music in Jewish communities in Eastern Europe. This program is part of Violins of Hope San Francisco Bay Area, presented in association with Music at Kohl Mansion, Burlingame, CA. A reception will precede the film, and a private reception with Cookie Segelstein at a private home will follow the event.

“BUDAPEST NOIR” (March 14)

The CJFF will host a Q&A with award-winning filmmaker Éva Gardos following this thriller set in Budapest in the politically fraught autumn of 1936. The film follows a scrappy reporter as he probes the murder of a femme fatale, leading him into the dark crime underworld. Francis Ford Coppola gave Gardos, born in Hungary, her first job in film, working as a production assistant on Coppola’s epic “Apocalypse Now”. She went on to establish a career as a film editor (“Valley Girl”, “Mask”, “Bastard Out of Carolina”), working with distinguished directors such as Barbet Schroeder, Peter Bogdanovich, and Anjelica Huston.

Éva’s screenwriting and feature film directorial debut, “An American Rhapsody”, starred a young Scarlett Johansson. The film is based on the true life events of Éva’s family escaping from Hungary in the 1950s and being forced to leave their infant child (Éva) behind. Éva spent six years in Hungary with foster parents before rejoining her biological parents in America. The film won many prizes on the Festival Circuit and was released by Paramount Classics.

“THE ACCOUNTANT OF AUSCHWITZ” (March 15)

Partnering with the Catholic Diocese, the CJFF will screen a Canadian film “The Accountant of Auschwitz”. In 2015, 94-year-old former German SS officer Oskar Groning admitted his guilt and went on trial. But bringing war criminals to justice asks fundamental moral questions with few simple answers. From Nuremberg to the new alt-right, this documentary is a stark reminder to “never forget”.

CLOSING NIGHT (MARCH 22)

The CJFF also will partner with the local Muslim community for the Closing Night selection Abe, a Brazilian film centered on a teen curious about his family’s Middle Eastern culinary heritage. A reception with Israeli and Arab dishes will precede the film.

As the only Jewish film festival in Monterey County, we serve all residents with our efforts to promote understanding, respect, and cooperation through education using the medium of film. While informed by a uniquely Jewish sensibility, our films communicate themes and messages with universal appeal to a wide audience drawn from the Monterey Peninsula and beyond. Our festival’s accompanying programs further engage mind and heart through discussion and social interaction. We hope that our festival will help bridge cultural and religious differences and contribute to community solidarity and peace.

Additional information about all films and events, including ticket prices, can be found on the Carmel Jewish Film Festival website (www.carmeljff.org).

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

Tuesday, November 5, 2019

There’s a Gift inside Every Gift Purchased at Goodwill Central Coast — your Holiday Shopping Headquarters

What if you could buy someone a holiday gift that would keep on giving long after the wrapping paper is recycled?

Salinas, CA, November 06, 2019 - That’s the reality when shoppers comb the aisles or the online store at Goodwill. Each purchase enables the community-based nonprofit to better fund its job-training and employment placement services — so you’re actually giving twice.

Make Goodwill Central Coast your holiday headquarters — from setting your Thanksgiving table to finding that perfect gift on Black Friday and beyond.

Thanksgiving
Goodwill Central Coast stores are closed on Thanksgiving Day, allowing employees time with their families. But gearing up for Turkey Day has never been easier thanks to the wide range of items Goodwill sells at lower-than-retail prices.

Find deals on platters, wine glasses, table runners, silverware and more. Or create that perfect DIY tablescape with marked-down items such as candles, ornate pumpkins and decorative linens.

Black Friday
The busiest shopping day of the year begins at 7 a.m. at all Goodwill Central Coast stores. Find 25 percent off all items marked with a colored tag, along with Door Buster specials on new goods (including cookware).

Arrive early and stay late for two daily drawings in each store, where you could walk away with special merchandise.

Other special shopping days
There’s always a good excuse to shop at Goodwill during the Season of Giving. Join us for Small Business Saturday (Nov. 30), Sorting Sunday (Dec. 1) or Giving Tuesday (Dec. 3). Except for Thanksgiving, our stores are open throughout the holiday season.

Stocking Stuffer Campaign
Throughout December, all Goodwill Central Coast stores will put an emphasis on stocking stuffers priced in four categories (under $20, under $10, under $5, and under $2).

The list of stocking stuffers is as long as your imagination, but popular items include jewelry, games, earbuds, phone chargers, candy, ornaments, decorative mugs and books.

Donations
Remember, if you’re not in the shopping frame of mind, you can donate new and gently used items to Goodwill — all treasures for someone else to find and turn into jobs. From home pick-ups to tax write-offs, Goodwill makes donating as easy as possible. Find out more at www.ccgoodwill.org.

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

Goodwill Central Coast CEO Moving to New Position in Goodwill Organization; Board of Directors to Begin Executive Search

The Goodwill Central Coast Board of Directors today announced that CEO Ed Durkee will be moving to a new position as CEO of Goodwill Industries of Central Florida in Orlando.

Salinas CA, November 05, 2019 - The Board said that Durkee leaves Goodwill Central Coast on sound financial footing and that the strength of the management team and Board will contribute to successfully move the organization through the transition.

The Board has also appointed Tom Moran as interim CEO effective upon Durkee’s departure date of December 13. The Board has formed a search committee and will hire a search firm to begin a search for a new CEO.

“We are entering this transition as a strong organization,” said Board Chairman Tom Strait. “We wish Ed all the success in his new position. He leaves Goodwill Central Coast in good shape, allowing a new CEO to seamlessly continue Goodwill’s important work.”

Durkee has been the CEO at Goodwill Central Coast since 2013.

About Tom Moran
Tom Moran has been CFO of Goodwill Central Coast since the beginning of 2018. He previously served on the organization’s Board of Directors from 2009-2014, including holding the role of Board Chair in 2013. Tom brings to Goodwill 20 years of experience in retail strategic planning and finance, including CFO roles at Conn’s, Inc., and at West Marine, with prior experience at ARAMARK, Limited Brands, and CarMax Auto Superstores. He has a bachelor’s degree in Physics from the College of the Holy Cross, and an MBA from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business. Tom and his wife Lindora enjoy hiking and the many other outdoor activities that California has to offer.

About Goodwill Central Coast
Goodwill Central Coast, 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 now employs over 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 13,000 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.

Goodwill Central Coast
1566 Moffet Street
Salinas, CA 93905
(831) 423-8611
https://www.ccgoodwill.org

Media inquiries: Marci Bracco Cain at 831-747-7455 or marci@chatterboxpublicrelations.com

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

Monday, November 4, 2019

Interim’s OMNI Resource Center needs volunteers, donations for its annual Thanksgiving feast in Salinas

For many the holiday season brings bountiful joy, but for others it can create loneliness, anxiety and depression.

Salinas, CA, October 04, 2019 - For many the holiday season brings bountiful joy, but for others it can create loneliness, anxiety and depression.

Each year the OMNI Resource Center in Salinas hosts a lunch on Thanksgiving Day, serving about 150 people hungry for more than food.

A program run through Interim Inc., which provides services and affordable housing for those with mental illness, OMNI needs volunteers and donations to help with this year’s meal on Nov. 28.

Guests at this special holiday lunch represent not only members of Interim’s housing program, but also the homeless, those with limited income, and/or those with no family.

The lunch gives attendees more than just a meal; they also make new friends, gain a sense of community, and get a meal to take home for later in the evening.

There are many volunteer opportunities to not only help brighten their day but also give hope for their future.

Donations can be dropped off at the Pajaro Street Wellness Center in Salinas (339 Pajaro St., Suite A). Deadline is Nov. 12 for non-perishables, and Nov. 15 for fresh food. OMNI needs everything from oval roasting pans to food items such as turkeys, spiral-sliced hams, boxes of stuffing mix, chicken broth, jars of cranberry sauce, cans of whipped cream and much more.

Volunteers are needed to cook food, but also to help register and usher guests, to serve food and clean up.

Volunteers (aside from cooks) will be asked to arrive at 11:30 a.m. on Nov. 28 for a quick training followed by lunch. Cooks will be asked to bring prepared food by noon on Nov. 27.

Anyone interested in donating to the Thanksgiving lunch or volunteering their time, should contact Lisa Corpuz at (831) 800-7530 x431 or email lcorpuz@interiminc.org.

ABOUT INTERIM INC.
Interim’s mission is to provide services and affordable housing supporting members of our community with mental illness in building productive and satisfying lives. Interim is a private nonprofit organization that provides a unique combination of support services, housing and treatment for adults with mental illness in Monterey County. Services provided include affordable supportive housing, residential treatment, mental health and dual-recovery services, case coordination, therapeutic services, outreach and intensive support for homeless adults, supported education and employment, day treatment and peer support.

ABOUT THE OMNI RESOURCE CENTER
The OMNI Resource Center offers peer-led programs promoting wellness and recovery, as well as recreational and social opportunities. Wellness programs are free and open to anyone with mental health challenges. Programs are also offered off-site at other community locations. No referral is necessary. The OMNI Resource Center is located at the Pajaro Street Wellness Center, 339 Pajaro St., Salinas, CA, 93901. The center is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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

Interim Inc will be hosting an Open House at Shelter Cove on December 6, 2019 from 3:00 – 4:30 PM

Interim Inc will be hosting an Open House at Shelter Cove on December 6, 2019 from 3:00 – 4:30 PM and will offer Holiday Treats and Tours of the remodeled facility. 613 Bayonet Circle, Marina, CA.

Monterey, CA, October 03, 2019 - The need transitional housing has been identified by Monterey County’s Coalition of Homeless Services Providers Local Continuum of Care. According to the 2017 Monterey County Homeless Census, approximately 28% of the homeless have serious mental illnesses and approximately 34% have substance use disorders.

Those who are homeless and in need of transitional housing often have a wide variety of needs to address before they are ready to move on to a permanent, independent living arrangement. Examples of common barriers to stability include lack of an income source (employment and/or access to benefits), history of untreated or undiagnosed mental illness, physical illnesses, substance use issues, a lack of basic life skills and deep emotional traumas. Interim staff at Shelter Cove offer case management, individual and group counseling, collaborative treatment planning focused on symptom management, social/family functioning and activities of daily living, coordination with psychiatric and other healthcare providers, including transportation if needed, medication education and support, linkage to community resources, recreational and social activities and peer counseling and support.

Residents of the Shelter Cove Program have private bedrooms and share the common living areas. The Bridge House Academy, a successful dual-diagnosis (mental illness and substance addiction) rehabilitation program located nearby, is available to all residents of Shelter Cove as well as, individual and group counseling and peer support groups for people for whom a day rehab program is not indicated. For example, clients in Shelter Cove are strongly encouraged to work, go to school, or do volunteer work. There is a resident manager available at night for emergencies. Residents pay 30 percent of income or the General Assistance set amount for rent. The maximum length of stay is one year.

· Interim originally acquired the Shelter Cove property under the McKinney Act from the US government as part of the decommissioning of Ft. Ord and has successfully operated transitional housing at this site for adults with mental illness since 1996.

· The Shelter Cove site formerly had 32 bedrooms. We have added seven bedrooms to the project by converting ground-floor community spaces into bedrooms. The ground-floors of these units are large enough to accommodate these renovations easily (approximately 1,000 square feet in shared space). These additional bedrooms were added without changing the exterior footprint of the buildings and were completed at a fraction of the cost of new construction. Adding these seven beds to Shelter Cove (now 39 beds) allows Interim to increase the number of homeless/at-risk individuals it serves from 45 to 65 individuals per year, an approximate increase of 22%.

· We have converted ground floor powder rooms in these units into full baths by adding showers. This conversion, in addition to the new ground floor bedrooms will better accommodate mobility-impaired residents. Although these units are not fully ADA compliant due to floor plan constraints, they are more accommodating for residents unable to climb stairs.

· Additionally, the kitchens of these seven units have been completely remodeled with new cabinets, flooring, countertops and appliances. Kitchen storage has been optimized as well. All Shelter Cove residents cook for themselves in the shared kitchens. The remodeled kitchens better accommodate multiple cooks.

We will be hosting an Open House at Shelter Cove on December 6, 2019 from 3:00 – 4:30 PM and will offer Holiday Treats and Tours of the remodeled facility. 613 Bayonet Circle, Marina, CA.

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

Friday, November 1, 2019

Nest Boutique in Pacific Grove Celebrates its 20th Anniversary with Special Shopping Events in November

Phyllis Davis is celebrating the 20th anniversary of her women’s wear shop Nest Boutique in Pacific Grove and she says she owes it all to the love and support of her loyal customers.

Pacific Grove, CA, October 31, 2019 — Phyllis Davis is celebrating the 20th anniversary of her women’s wear shop Nest Boutique in Pacific Grove and she says she owes it all to the love and support of her loyal customers.

“I’m just amazed and feeling very blessed,” says Davis, when asked about her thoughts on celebrating 20 years in business. “Somehow in this world of online shopping and big box stores, a little family boutique has survived. A lot of it is due to our wonderful customers. Without them, we wouldn’t be here. I love showing my clients designer fashions that are fashionable, flattering and fun!”


With that in mind, Davis and Nest are hosting two special events in November to celebrate its 20th anniversary, a one-night-only shopping event for VIP customers and a weekend event in which a percentage of proceeds from sales go to three local charities.

The event for VIP customers will be held from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 14, 2019, where VIP customers will be treated to a night of shopping and mingling with bubbles and nibbles, a special 20th anniversary gift for all attendees and a drawing to win a $200 gift certificate — every shopper is eligible! The drawing will be held at 7:30 p.m. and you must be present to win the gift certificate.

In addition, for every $100 spent during the month of November, VIP customers will receive a $20 gift certificate to shop in December only. The certificate would be valid December 1 – December 31, 2019.

The community event supporting Nest’s 20th anniversary and its charity partners will be held all day Friday, November 15 through Sunday, November 17. Each charity partner will receive 20% of all sales for the day:

•Friday, November 15, I-Help, Interfaith Homeless Emergency Lodging Program •Saturday, November 16, Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History

•Sunday, November 17, Animal Friends Rescue Project (AFRP)

On Sunday, AFRP will have a table and adoptable animals in front of the shop from 12 – 2 p.m.

Customers will get a chance to meet someone from the charity, pick up some information on the organization, shop and support a good cause with their purchase.

To RSVP for any of the events, call/go to xxx.

“This celebration is to show our customers what their patronage has meant to us,” she says.

Nest started life in The Barnyard Shopping Village in Carmel in 1999, and moved to its current Grand Avenue location in Pacific Grove in January 2005. Davis and her husband Mitch and her mother and stepfather Bonnie and Milt became partners in the venture. In fact, Davis’ mother came up with the name for the boutique.

“My mom was all excited and she asked me, ‘Can we call it Nest?’, ” says Davis about starting the business venture. “I asked her, ‘What does that have to do with women’s fashions?’ ‘Well, we want it to be a warm and welcoming place don’t we? Like a nest.’”

Her mother loved clothes and had a background in retail, owning and running both The Attic on Cannery Row and The Cottage Collection in The Crossroads Shopping Center. She was very close to her mother, whom customers called “The Bulldog” for her dogged enthusiasm, and likening their relationship to Lucy and Ethel of the “I Love Lucy” TV show.

With her mom’s sales acumen, her stepdad’s knack for woodworking and cabinetry, her husband Mitch’s business mind and her jack-of-all-trades skills, Nest thrived, allowing her and Mitch to also pursue their other love: the theater.

“I started acting at age 14, my first show on the Monterey Peninsula was nine years later in 1978, and I met Mitch in a production of ‘Seven Brides for Seven Brothers’ at the Outdoor Forest Theater,” she says. “Nest is my daytime passion, theater is my nighttime passion.”

While Nest started out as a women’s wear boutique, it has earned a reputation as the place to go for special occasion wear — weddings, formal events, and so forth.

“We have everyday casual wear, all the way to bridal wear and everything in between, that’s why our slogan is ‘From Blue Jeans to Bridal, Nest Has It All!’ ” she says. “Mitch calls it the ‘world’s smallest department store.’ ”

As for whether there are any plans in the future for expansion or other measures, Davis says they just want to keep serving the community as best they can.

“We’re happy, so we want to keep it simple and easy,” she says. “We don’t need a lot of drama, we’ll leave that to the stage!”

About Nest Boutique
For the best selection of women's clothing and formal wear, come to Nest Boutique! Opened in 1999 by Phyllis Davis, her husband Mitch, and her parents Bonnie and Milt, their shop is the perfect place for all your clothing needs. Phyllis was born and raised on the Monterey Peninsula. She and her husband enjoy performing in many local theater productions. Phyllis runs the shop and enjoys helping customers or ordering new merchandise! Trust our friendly team to do whatever we can to make you happy!

Nest Boutique
229-B Grand Ave.
Pacific Grove, CA 93950
nestinpg.com
831-333-9184
phyllis@nestinpg.com

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