VNA Hospice to Participate in Second Bloom Project, Repurposing Flower arrangements for Hospice patients

Due to busy schedules and time constraints, florists often rush from one project to the next, giving new meaning to the term “left on the cutting room floor.”

Salinas, CA, April 29, 2020 - However, while bits of edited film never make it to the big screen, unused flowers don’t need to be discarded. They can be beautifully and tenderly repurposed to brighten the day of someone in hospice care.

That’s the idea behind Second Bloom Project, a local nonprofit that brings together people — nurses, patients, design volunteers and community florists — through repurposed bedside arrangements.

Central Coast VNA & Hospice has announced its participation in the uplifting program, started by former professional florist Anne Bell.

“To be able to recycle this joy and beauty at no cost to our partners in hospice is an incredible feeling,” said Bell.

Bell worked previously in the event and floral design department at Pebble Beach Co., and couldn’t help noticing all the excess flowers thrown in the green bin.

“I felt that it was wasteful to throw away those flowers that could bring so much joy,” she said.

Bell once ran her own floral design business in Danville, but closed the business when she had triplets (who are now in college). Years later she stumbled upon a Roseville nonprofit called Petal Connection, and volunteered her services a few times a week to arrange flowers for hospice patients.

Four years ago, Bell and her husband moved from Roseville to La Selva Beach to build an empty nest after raising five children. She took the job at Pebble Beach Co., and loved the work, but always remembered the joy of volunteering at Petal Connection. So she quit and convinced Pebble Beach management to participate in her new nonprofit.

“From my past experience with the Petal Connection, I realized that this scenario presented an opportunity to bring an institution like Pebble Beach together with the community to spread joy,” she said.

VNA Hospice is proud to accept these floral gifts that they eventually deliver to patients all over the Central Coast. Because hospice care addresses the patient’s physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs, Second Bloom fits perfectly within VNA’s mission.

“I’ve witnessed firsthand the great appreciation of hospice patients and their families by this unexpected gift of flowers,” said Bell. “I love having the opportunity to work with flowers and give back to my community.”

For more information about the Second Bloom Project, visit www.secondbloomproject.com. For more about VNA Hospice, visit www.ccvna.com.

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

VNA expands New Beginnings grief support groups to include virtual and telephonic access

Despite unprecedented circumstances surrounding a global pandemic, VNA remains committed to the needs of its community — including grief support through individual work or groups.

Salinas, CA, April 26, 2020 - During these trying weeks, VNA’s goal has been to maintain accessibility to every individual, which necessitated the addition of virtual and telephonic support meetings.

Facilitated by VNA hospice chaplain and grief counselor Mick Erickson, “New Beginnings” grief and loss support groups, along with individual work, are offered free as a community service.

Before the pandemic, Erickson provided emotional and spiritual support to patients and families of those at the end of life, facilitating six groups each week in Monterey, San Benito and Santa Clara counties.

“Now we are in the process of transforming how we provide those services,” Erickson said.

While following CDC and county health guidelines, VNA is still able to offer weekly face-to-face meetings. Now, through a service called Teams, Erickson can provide live, online counseling, utilizing audio and video.

It has proven to be a valuable tool for Erickson.

“I see people with an added layer of stress in their lives,” he said. “In addition to their personal life stress and their grief, there are added concerns about health and safety. This is resulting in high anxiety, fear, depression, discouragement and despair.”

Because shelter-in-place mandates have isolated so many, “the need to feel supported and loved is more important than ever before,” Erickson said. “People need to feel there is someone out there who acknowledges and values how they feel and what they are going through.”

For onsite meetings, VNA adheres to approved safety policies, with no more than eight attendees permitted, and everyone practicing social distancing guidelines. VNA asks the public to refrain from attending if:

You or a family member has a sore throat, cough and/or fever
You have had contact in the last 14 days with someone who is suspected (or confirmed) as having coronavirus.
You have had contact with someone who has travelled internationally in the last 14 days.
Those interested in virtual meetings should contact VNA with the group of their choice and provide an email address. They will receive an invitation to join the group at the appropriate time.

Weekly Meeting Schedule
Mondays, 4:30-6 p.m. — San Martin Presbyterian Church, 13200 Lincoln Ave., San Martin
Tuesdays, 12:30-2 p.m. — Mars Hill, 610 San Benito St., Hollister
Tuesdays, 3:30-5 p.m. — Microsoft Teams Virtual Meeting (via phone or video)
Wednesdays, 6:30-8 p.m. — Church of the Wayfarer, 7th and Lincoln, Carmel
Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. — Microsoft Teams Virtual Meeting (via phone or video)
Get connected and make a request at ccvna.com/supportgroups. Join virtually by emailing Ed Horsley at ehorsley@ccvna.com.

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

Chasing Dreams, Finding Cures barrel-race fundraiser (Nov. 7-8) in King City sets goal of $30K for St. Jude’s

Each year, the parents of more than 13,000 kids hear the heartbreaking words: “Your child has cancer.”

King City, CA, April 24, 2020 — Each year, the parents of more than 13,000 kids hear the heartbreaking words: “Your child has cancer.” That’s 43 children every day, with an average age of 6. Across all ages, ethnic groups and socio-economics, cancer remains the number one cause of death by disease in children.

St. Jude Children’s Hospital stands on the front line of this battle. The pediatric treatment and research facility — focused on children's catastrophic diseases, particularly leukemia and other cancers — costs about $2.8 million a day to run, but patients are never charged for their care.

Fundraising becomes crucial for St. Jude’s, with 75 percent of costs covered by public contributors. Over the last three years, Chasing Dreams, Finding Cures has raised $53,000 for the hospital through its annual barrel race in King City.

The fourth annual fundraiser (working through A Key for a Cure) is scheduled for Nov. 7-8 at Salinas Valley Fairgrounds in King City, and organizers invite the public to be a part of making magic happen again.

All proceeds donated will fund innovative pediatric cancer research, which is a less-toxic immunotherapy treatment that utilizes advanced medical technology to reprogram cancer cells.

The fundraiser has set a goal to bring in another $30,000 this year. Sponsorships are available at different levels, from Silver ($150) to Saddle ($1,600). Silent auction item donations are also needed.

The two-day event begins with a dinner, dance and live auction on Nov. 7, 5:30-10 p.m., at Salinas Valley Fairgrounds, 625 Division St., in King City. Music will be provided by the Steve Bernal Band, with auctioneer John Flook leading the auction. Spectators are welcome to the barrel race on Nov. 8.

For more information call 831-524-0324.

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

Second annual Concours at Pasadera launches Car Week 2020 with collector cars, motorcycles, and Hot Wheels Featured theme: “Ford vs. Ferrari”

In recognition of exhibitors who have presented outstanding vehicles in prior years, both the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance and The Concours at Pasadera will encore previous award-winning automobiles, along with awarding new Class Winners, during their August 2020 events.

Monterey, California, April 21, 2020 - In recognition of exhibitors who have presented outstanding vehicles in prior years, both the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance and The Concours at Pasadera will encore previous award-winning automobiles, along with awarding new Class Winners, during their August 2020 events.

Last year’s Concours at Pasadera offered a Car Week experience like no other: Champagne and delectable hors d’oeuvres, along with cars competing in class awards from Tiffany & Co., and the backdrop of a luxurious private country club and Jack Nicklaus-designed Signature golf course. As one guest said about last year’s event: “Fine cars, excellent cuisine in an atmosphere of casual elegance.” While that may sound difficult to eclipse, members of The Club at Pasadera have every intention of doing just that at the second annual event on Friday, August 7, from 2-6 p.m.

The concours will showcase a juried collection of modern, classic, competition, commercial and vintage automobiles, along with motorcycles gathered from club members and enthusiasts. Also featured will be an Alumni Arena, presenting 25 chosen exhibitors from five classes. Guests will experience a tribute to the famed “Ford vs. Ferrari” competitions held at Le Mans between 1966-69. Competition vehicles from both marques will be on display. In all, the exhibition encompasses more than 80 cars and motorcycles from North America, Europe and Asia.

The first ever Hot Wheels Concours will be part of the Pasadera event, inviting both younger and older exhibitors to present their collections for awards. Guests also will enjoy an exceptional culinary experience, with the event benefiting countywide charitable causes.

Ford vs Ferrari
While the focus will be centered on Friday’s festivities, Pasadera will host a pre-Concours party for exhibitors and sponsors on Thursday, August 6, from 5-8 pm, highlighted by a private screening of scenes from the film Ford vs. Ferrari starring Christian Bale and Matt Damon.

The film follows a determined team of American engineers and designers, led by automotive visionary, Carroll Shelby (Damon), and his British driver, Ken Miles (Bale), who build a new racing car intended to defeat the perennially dominant Ferrari racing team at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans in France.

Bring your Hot Wheels
The famous toy from Mattel has become hugely collectible, with fans unearthing pieces that could belong in an investment portfolio. For the 2020 event, the Hot Wheels Concours will present scale-model cars (1967-2020) owned by exhibitors from around the world. Famed collector Bruce Pascal will exhibit a selection of his prized models, one of which will be the famous 1969 Beach Bomb valued at $175,000.

Life-sized Hot Wheels cars also will be a part of this incredible event. The Concours at Pasadera will feature five exciting categories for entrants: Vintage Hot Wheels (manufactured between 1968-1977 with red lines on the tires); Classics (1978-1994); Modern Classics (1995-2020, including the 1995 “Treasure Hunt” launch); Customized (manufacturing dates open); and Special Exhibition (rare examples accepted by the jury). A Best of Show will be awarded, chosen by attending guests by popular vote, given to the piece that best represents the spirit of the show and its exhibitor.

Each Hot Wheels exhibitor will receive a selected Hot Wheels vehicle as a gift from the Concours committee. Those interested in exhibiting should register here.

Pasadera’s Philanthropy
Proceeds from the 2020 Concours at Pasadera will benefit The Bridge Restoration Ministry and CASA of Monterey County (Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children).

The Bridge exists to provide a residential setting for those struggling with addictions, providing safety, structure, discipleship and supervision for the purpose of restoring them back to God, family, work and community. Referrals come from Salinas Valley Memorial Hospital and the Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula, families, local businesses and local and state correctional programs. Its current goal is to acquire a new facility, working with Pepperdine University to obtain a location in Pacific Grove.

CASA trains and supports community volunteers who advocate for abused or neglected children placed in foster care, upholding the children’s rights while pursuing a safe and permanent home.

2020 Poster from Famed Artist
World-renowned artist Simon Bull has captured the spirit of the 2020 Concours at Pasadera through his love of color — and cars. Poster prints will be available for $35 with proceeds donated to charity. The creation of this English-born artist can be viewed thru a network of fine galleries around the world including Meuse Gallery on Ocean Avenue in Carmel. Guests to Concours at Pasadera will be able to view Bull’s one-of-a-kind, colorfully painted Aston Martin on display.

Tickets and More Information
Monterey Motorsports owner Rick Barnett is leading the organization for the event and will serve as Master of Ceremonies. Tiffany & Co. created the Class and Exhibitor Awards. Event information at pasaderaconcours.com.

A 2020 Concours ticket includes:
Admission into the Concours at Pasadera
Hosted Champagne
Heavy hors d’oeuvres

Early-Bird Pricing (RSVP before July 10)
General admission adult (18+): $110, $195 per couple
General admission (under 18): $40
Children 5 and under are free

Standard Pricing (RSVP after July 10)
General admission adult (18+): $125, $225 per couple
General admission (under 18): $50
Children 5 and under are free

Club at Pasadera Member Early-Bird Pricing (RSVP before July 10)
Member general admission adult (18+): $95, $165 per couple
Member general admission (under 18): $30
Children 5 and under are free

Members of The Club at Pasadera interested in purchasing tickets should email admin@thelcubatpasadera.com. General admission tickets may be purchased at https://pasaderaconcours.com/tickets/

Exhibitors and Sponsors
The exhibition fee is $250 and includes two event tickets, a Tiffany Exhibitor award, car bio and photo shoot. To guarantee a review of entry by jury, each exhibitor must apply by July 6.

Alumni exhibitors will be charged $250 and includes two event tickets, sterling silver Tiffany 2019 Alumni pin, car bio and photo shoot. To guarantee a review of entry by jury, Alumni exhibitors must apply by May 15.

The Elite exhibitor fee is $350 and includes Alumni and Exhibitor entries, two event tickets and both Exhibitor and Alumni awards. To guarantee a review of entry by jury, Alumni exhibitors must apply by May 15.

Applications may be found at https://pasaderaconcours.com/application. For information on sponsorship opportunities, contact Rick Barnett at rick@montereymotorsports.com.

The Club at Pasadera is at 100 Pasadera Drive in Monterey, between Monterey and Salinas off Highway 68.

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

VNA & Hospice Receives Grant Award from Monterey Peninsula Foundation

VNA & Hospice is proud to announce it has received a grant award from the Monterey Peninsula Foundation for $60,000 to support general operating funds for the VNA & Hospice.

Monterey, CA, April 20, 2020 - VNA & Hospice is proud to announce it has received a grant award from the Monterey Peninsula Foundation for $60,000 to support general operating funds for the VNA & Hospice. The Monterey Peninsula Foundation is the nonprofit organization that stages the annual AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and distributes the proceeds to charity. The Foundation powers positive community change in the Monterey, California area through its world class golf charity events. VNA is honored to be one of this year’s recipients of this prestigious event.

VNA is dedicated to providing the highest quality health care to residents of the Central Coast by meeting their individual needs in a caring, effective, honorable, and accessible manner. VNA transforms the care and culture to meet the changing needs of patients, families, and caregivers. We achieve positive results every day through quality standards, empowerment, teamwork, and accountability.

Media Contact: Jane Russo, 831-372-6668

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay
24560 Silver Cloud Court, #103 Monterey, CA 93940
Phone: (831) 324-0772
Email:
Website: www.arcpointlabs.com
COVID-19 Appointments: labtestmonterey.com

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

VNA & Hospice Receives $5,000 Grant Award from Barnet Segal Charitable Trust

VNA & Hospice has announced a $5,000 grant award from the Barnet Segal Charitable Trust to support general operating funds.

Pacific Grove, CA, April 18, 2020 — Founded in 1986, the Barnet Segal Charitable Trust is a private foundation based in Carmel. It has been providing support to VNA is dedicated to providing the highest quality health care to residents of the Central Coast by meeting their individual needs in a caring, effective, honorable and accessible manner

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

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

VNA Hospice among Health Agencies to Order Masks from Nonprofit Organized by Pacific Grove Teens

Given the nationwide shortage of personal protection equipment (or PPE), some health-related agencies have had to expand their search for items such as face masks.

Pacific Grove, CA, April 18, 2020 — Given the nationwide shortage of personal protection equipment (or PPE), some health-related agencies have had to expand their search for items such as face masks.

Central Coast VNA Hospice found some help from a Pacific Grove family who has launched an innovative nonprofit called Masks for Monterey County.

Toula Hubbard found a way to keep her kids active and connected through a Girl Scout service project. Her two teenagers created the nonprofit to connect mask makers with healthcare professionals, essential workers and those in need.

Toula, a life and wellness coach, lives in Pacific Grove with her husband Chris, her daughter Thalia, 16, and son Niko, 15.

“Gratitude and a sense of belonging are important to wellness,” she said. “So volunteering and gratitude are basic principles that clients learn to exercise and my children have been raised with.”

The registry at www.masksformontereycounty.org is two weeks old and already has more than 4,000 requests, with more and more seamstresses added each day.

Currently there is a worldwide shortage of protective face masks, which help slow the spread of the virus. VNA Hospice has ordered 300 masks from MFMC, and will be receiving them each week in batches of 30.

Most of the masks are typically made with 100 percent cotton fabric.

“Honestly it doesn’t matter what type of mask is made,” Toula said. “We just need the masks and we will match the mask type to the appropriate group.”

What they call AB masks have a spot for a filter, and are prioritized to health care workers. Some masks are simply cloth, great for those interacting with the public, such as grocery workers, postal workers and essential employees of all types.

“We have some people who have asked that masks be made to cover the N95 mask,” she said.

All masks are reusable, and each recipient is instructed to sterilize between each use.

When the pandemic ends, the family will collect any unused masks, sanitize them and repurpose them by donating to dialysis centers and other facilities that cater to the immune compromised.

A junior at Pacific Grove High School and a member of Girl Scout Troop 30626, Thalia had been keeping an eye out for potential Girl Scout Gold projects. She joined her brother, a freshman at PGHS and a member of Boy Scout Troop 43, in the endeavor.

“We have many friends who are health care workers, and essential employees, and the conversation started around how to get them resources to protect themselves and others if they are carriers without knowing,” Toula said.

She challenged her kids to take a look at the need and see what they could do to help. In the process, they learned new skills, among them creating a website and launching social media platforms. Each has worked to help draft marketing materials while problem solving the logistics of moving fabric donations and completed masks around the county.

So far, masks have been sent to healthcare workers, home-health workers, those passing out food to the needy, fire and police departments, essential county agency workers, grocery store and drug store workers, nonprofits and other agencies serving the community.

“Our intention is to also provide masks to the second wave of those in need including the vulnerable and elderly,” Toula said.

The family has friends who work and volunteer for VNA, a nonprofit close to their hearts.

“VNA provides so many services in the community, and you can see why their nurses and volunteers need the added protection,” she said.

All masks donated are free, but there are costs for materials and delivery, so the Hubbards have set up a donation portal on the website.

The lesson in this project is clear.

“Make a difference in the center of your circle, and the ripple effect will have others creating a similar circle with a similar ripple effect,” Toula said. “At the end of the day we are all in this together.”

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

Monterey Testing Laboratory One of Few on Central Coast Providing COVID-19 Antibody Testing

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has closed many businesses across the country, but there has also been an unexpected surge in some businesses, especially in the medical, health care and laboratory fields.

Monterey, CA, April 14, 2020 — The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has closed many businesses across the country, but there has also been an unexpected surge in some businesses, especially in the medical, health care and laboratory fields.

One such business is the Monterey-based ARCpoint Labs of Monterey Bay, one of the nation’s leaders in drug testing, alcohol screening, DNA and clinical lab testing, corporate wellness programs and employment/background screening.

Prior to the quarantines and closures mandated by COVID-19, about two-thirds of ARCpoint business came from wellness testing, specialized testing for people with specific conditions or diseases, such as celiac and lyme disease and mold sensitivities.

But now, according to ARCpoint co-owner and lab director Spenser Smith, more than 90% of its testing is focused on COVID-19 antibody testing, tests that determine whether a person has been infected by the virus and recovered, which produces antibodies that can be tested two ways: by a simple finger-prick to draw blood, or a more involved process that takes a tube of blood from the arm, much like a standard blood test.

ARCpoint had been doing almost all of its antibody tests the first way, with a drive-through system set up in its parking lot. The other method involves going into the laboratory to have your blood drawn. Results from the finger-prick test can be produced within 15-20 minutes, but because of the high volume of tests, are usually available by the end of the day. The second method requires the blood to be sent to a lab in Florida, with results available in a couple of days.

The FDA had allowed labs to give the finger-prick tests on April 1, but by April 11 had changed its guidelines so that labs, including ARCpoint, could only give the second test.

“It means we won't be doing the finger-stick version of the test for now, but we will be switching to a version of the test that uses a whole tube of blood from the arm, is more accurate, has earlier detection, and is considered by doctors and health professionals to be a big step forward in medical usefulness,” said Smith. “This test is a new and improved version that we are rolling out to continue our embrace of the newest testing technologies for COVID-19.”

Smith said the downside of the new tests is that it takes longer to perform, can’t be done in a drive-through and is more expensive, at about $175 as opposed to the $68.31 cost of the finger-prick test cost.

The concept of the blood tests is that people who have been exposed to the virus can develop antibodies, which can help them resist another infection. That way the body’s antibodies against COVID-19 can reduce the chances of getting infected again.

The hope is that those tested and found to have immunized antibodies could then return to work and help restart the economy.

Smith said his company, which was founded three years ago by him, his brother (who is the lab director on the toxicology side), mother and father, is hoping to get the costs down for the arm-draw method of testing.

The priority for testing is first responders and health care workers (as well as those on the front lines, such as grocery store workers, maintenance and janitorial workers and delivery drivers), but those who exhibited symptoms, didn’t get tested, and recovered, are also welcome to be tested.

For now, all testing is done by appointment-only, by phone or through its appointment portal on its website at arcpointlabs.com. Smith said he wanted the public to know that these tests, which are the same as the tests Stanford University and USC used in their studies on the prevalence of COVID-19 exposure in California, only detects protective antibodies to the virus rather than the virus itself.

The tests that detects the virus itself, the most common test is the so-called PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) test, involves taking nasal and throat swabs, which then have to be sent to a centralized lab to test for viral RNA (ribonucleic acid, the marker that contains genetic information to detect the presence of the virus). These tests can often take days (sometimes weeks because of the demand) to get results. ARCpoint currently offers a small number of these tests to patients with a doctor’s order, but supplies have been limited throughout the nation since the onset of the outbreak.

Smith said that ARCpoint is part of a franchise operation that has more than 100 facilities across the country, but that the Monterey operation is just one of a half-dozen that is doing the COVID-19 antibody testing.

Right now the company is doing its testing on a cash-only basis since insurance companies have not determined a pricing and billing system for COVID-19 tests yet.

Because of the increased volume of testing ARCpoint has been experiencing, they have had to hire several temporary employees to handle the demand, Smith said.

Smith added that his company would like to offer PCR testing for the virus more widely, but that testing currently is experiencing a lot of issues, including the accuracy of the testing, false positives and lengthy waits for results. Because of that, health officials are urging Americans to reserve diagnostic tests for the active virus — the PCR tests — for health care workers, first responders and patients in hospitals.

ARCpoint Labs is a full-service national third-party provider/administrator of diagnostic testing. The services at its Monterey Bay location encompass both onsite and offsite pre-employment, random, post-accident and reasonable suspicion drug testing. In addition, ARCpoint also serves many judicial, athletic, and medical clients across the United States.

The family, which has made the Monterey Peninsula its home for over 30 years, has been in the drug and alcohol testing business for more than 18 years, has 50 years of combined business experience on the Central Coast, and its staff has over 60 years of combined industry experience.

ARCpoint Labs’ mission is to provide accurate, reliable, and confidential diagnostic testing for individuals, companies, and legal and healthcare professionals.

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

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

SLV Water District to Replace Damaged Water Main on Bear Creek Road

Notice of Road Closure: Work will be performed during evening hours to minimize traffic impacts on the community

Boulder Creek, CA, April 11, 2020 - The San Lorenzo Valley Water District (SLVWD) today announced it is working with the County of Santa Cruz Department of Public Works to replace a water main on Bear Creek Road that was damaged in January 2020.

This work will require closing Bear Creek Road at the stop sign (mile post marker 1.71) from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. Monday April 13, 2020 through Friday April 17, 2020. Construction activities are being performed during the evening hours to minimize traffic impacts on the community. Emergency services have been notified and have implemented contingencies for response.

Immediately after the damage occurred, District crews rerouted water service in the area through a bypass line to ensure customers had access to water. The final construction will replace the bypass line with a permanent water main.

ABOUT THE SAN LORENZO VALLEY WATER DISTRICT:
The San Lorenzo Valley Water District is located in the mountains of northern Santa Cruz County. The District serves more than 7,900 metered connections. Established in 1941, the District supplies water to the communities of Boulder Creek, Brookdale, Ben Lomond, Zayante, Scotts Valley, Mañana Woods, Felton and Lompico. For more information, visit www.slvwd.com or www.facebook.com/slvwaterdistrict

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

For Mother’s Day, Center for Community Advocacy honors health education volunteers called Promotoras

The Spanish word “promotora” translates simply to “promoter,” but in the farmworker community it means so much more.

Salinas, CA, April 11, 2020 - A Promotora is a camp health aide, a lay health adviser, and outreach worker, a community health representative and more.

Most Promotoras go by another title — madre. As mothers they dream of providing a better future for their children. They dream of helping to create healthy, safe and strong neighborhoods.

With Mother’s Day approaching on May 3, the Center for Community Advocacy wishes to honor all of its CCA-trained, volunteer Promotoras. These women remain significant pillars within CCA’s efforts to provide education, orientation and health support to farmworkers and other low-income working families.

This year CCA has created an awareness campaign called “Por el Amor de Madre” (For the Love of Mother), and is accepting donations through its website www.cca-viva.org to aid the Promotoras program.

Trained by CCA and health service providers, Promotoras comunitarias deliver preventative health information/interventions to neighborhoods in the Salinas and Pajaro valleys. These efforts help educate their peers about chronic diseases, behavioral health and youth violence prevention. For many farmworker families, Promotoras may be their only source of health information. This may mean the difference between preventive care and diagnosis of a preventable chronic disease.

Through CCA’s Promotoras, each year hundreds of farmworker families and other low-income families learn and teach others about:

● simple and healthier ways to eat and cook.
● ways to increase their physical fitness.
● how to prevent, detect and make referrals to proper health providers.

To support the CCA’s Promotoras program, or to get more information, call CCA at (831) 753-2324 ext. 12.

About Center for Community Advocacy
CCA provides education, orientation and legal support to farmworkers and other low-income working families who want to establish neighborhood committees that work to improve housing and health conditions. CCA trains these committees to negotiate with landlords to resolve issues such as unsafe housing conditions, housing discrimination and security deposits. CCA also trains these committees to provide preventative health information and interventions in their neighborhoods.

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

Central Coast YMCA Provides Access to Online Health, Fitness and Youth Programming

During these unprecedented times, Central Coast YMCA remains committed to those with the most pressing needs

Salinas, CA, April 11, 2020 - During these unprecedented times, Central Coast YMCA remains committed to those with the most pressing needs, and to keep Y members healthy and connected, the Central Coast YMCA is providing access to online health, fitness and youth programming.

Group fitness classes led by Y instructors are available online via Facebook Live. The Y is also offering youth-directed activities, such as arts and crafts and STEM projects through Facebook Live. A weekly schedule of classes and activities is posted at www.centralcoastymca.org.

YMCA fitness instructors have created a weekly workout for members, with three levels of skill and intensity. Additionally, CCYMCA members can access Y360, an on-demand fitness program for adults and kids to enjoy at home (information and links online).

For more information, call (831) 757-4633 or go to the Central Coast YMCA website at: centralcoastymca.org.

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

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

CCYMCA is located at 500 Lincoln Ave. in Salinas.

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

Central Coast YMCA Makes Wellness Calls & Meal Deliveries to Homebound Seniors

Central Coast YMCA Makes Wellness Calls & Essential Deliveries to Homebound Seniors

Salinas, CA, April 06, 2020 - Central Coast YMCA staff members have been making calls to homebound senior members as well as delivery of groceries and other essential items during this statewide shelter-in-place order.

During these unprecedented times, CCYMCA remains committed to those with the most pressing needs, including calling all members aged 60 or older to assess any unmet needs they may have during the shelter-in-place order. Many seniors responded that they were happy to have someone call them for a quick conversation and expression of care and support.

Through partnerships with Blue Zones, SVMHS, Meals on Wheels, the Salvation Army, Food Bank and Community Housing Improvement Systems and Planning Association (CHISPA), CCYMCA is making daily food deliveries, along with books from our lending library and special custom artwork from the children attending our Y Essential Childcare Camps. We are also offering pick up of groceries, pharmacy and other essential needs. During the shelter-in-place order, CCYMCA will continue to make lend employee capacity to our community partners.

For more information, call (831) 757-4633 or go to the Central Coast YMCA website at: centralcoastymca.org.

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

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

CCYMCA is located at 500 Lincoln Ave. in Salinas.

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

Central Coast YMCA Providing Childcare for Children of Essential Workers to Address Pressing Needs

When California Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a statewide shelter-in-place order, Central Coast YMCA immediately pivoted to emergency programming aimed at supporting its communities, including providing childcare for children of essential workers.

Salinas, CA, April 06, 2020 - When California Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a statewide shelter-in-place order, Central Coast YMCA immediately pivoted to emergency programming aimed at supporting its communities, including providing childcare for children of essential workers.

With area schools closed, workers with children need reliable, affordable childcare. YMCA is devoting its facilities and resources to providing childcare, particularly to first responders, health-care staff and agricultural workers, but also to grocery store employees, delivery drivers and anyone else required to work during the pandemic.

At all CCYMCA locations, childcare from qualified staff costs just $35 per day (per child), weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. An extended-hours pop-up camp — designed for the children of healthcare workers — takes place from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., at a rate of $50 per day (per child). YMCA childcare staff has received training on how to prevent the spread of COVID-19, as per CDC guidelines, kids in emergency childcare are being kept in groups no larger than 10, instructed on correct prevention techniques such as handwashing and sanitation and practice social distancing.

Youth in the Essential Childcare Camps participate in curriculum-based programs; including enrichment activities such as arts & crafts, STEM projects and daily fitness exercises. Homework time is an important part of these planned activities, allowing students to work on distance learning and school assignments. In addition, the Y is providing weekly education packets, ensuring all youth keep their academic skills current and do not fall behind in school. Children also participate daily in our Youth Fit 4 Life, the YMCA’s youth fitness program.

During these unprecedented times, the Central Coast YMCA is committed to serving our communities and those with the most pressing needs.

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

Journey Tribute Band One of Headline Acts to Perform at 2020 Monterey County Fair, Sept. 3-7

Journey Revisited, a band celebrating the music of San Francisco’s iconic Journey, will be one of the headliners at the 84th annual Monterey County Fair.

Monterey, CA, April 05, 2020 — Journey Revisited, a band celebrating the music of San Francisco’s iconic Journey, will be one of the headliners at the 84th annual Monterey County Fair, which will be held Sept. 3-7, 2020, at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center.

Journey Revisited will 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4, 2020, on the Payton Stage at the Fair. All live music is free with fair admission. A full schedule of entertainment will be released early this summer.

Journey Revisited is a professional group of musicians who are inspired by the music of Journey and bring "national act" experience to every stage. The band will play all the top hits, with no rare B-sides or fillers. Each song is recreated note for note and performed in the original keys without pre-recorded backing tracks. What Journey fans remember hearing on the radio or albums is what they will get from Journey Revisited.

Fans should expect to hear chart-topping hits such as Lights, Don't Stop Believing, Lovin' Touchin' Squeezin', Anyway You Want It, Feeling That Way, Who's Crying Now, Only the Young, and Oh Sherrie.

The band has booked 30-plus shows a year consistently since 2011 throughout the west coast, playing fairs, casinos, festivals, corporate events, and private parties. Journey Revisited is a concert experience, not your typical bar cover band.

The Monterey County Fair will run from Thursday, Sept. 3-Monday, Sept. 7, 2020, at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center, 2004 Fairground Road, in Monterey. The theme of the 2019 fair is “Fiesta.”

About the Monterey County Fair & Event Center
The Monterey County Fair & Event Center is a premier event center set on 22 oak-studded acres with ample parking. It is a state-owned multi-use facility that features four large banquet rooms, two outdoor concert venues, and a variety of outdoor and indoor cost-effective sites ideal for all types of events. It is home of the annual award-winning Monterey County Fair, host to many major and private events on the Central Coast, and the site of the Monterey Bay Race Place, a Satellite Wagering Facility.

For more information, contact the Fair Administration Office, at 2004 Fairground Road in Monterey, by calling (831) 372-5863 or go to www.montereycountyfair.com for more information.

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

Kata Cabrera’s Determination Helps her Overcome Obstacles

No matter the obstacle, Katarina Cabrera is hard-wired to persevere — always refusing to give up.

Salinas, CA, April 05, 2020 - The Alisal High School senior can certainly thank her parents for that trait, but the game of basketball also helped her develop her signature spunk and stamina.

“I have been playing basketball my whole life, and fell in love with it,” said Katarina, whose friends call her Kata for short.

When Gil Basketball Academy began 11 years ago, Kata couldn’t wait to sign up.

“It was so exciting because it was a big group of kids, and we did drills, we scrimmaged, it was great,” she said. A coach told her about GBA’s select travel teams and she joined — “no questions asked.”

“My dad took me to the next practice, and to my surprise it was all boys, no girls in sight,” she said. “At first I was a little overwhelmed and nervous, but once we got into practice all the nerves sorta just went away.”

Kata competed against boys for two years, “and today those boys on my team are some of my closest friends,” she said. “I was like one of the guys with them. I feel like it pushed me to feel more comfortable on the court, and just play the way I knew how.”

The 5-foot, 3-inch shooting guard played all four years at Alisal. Her senior season the girls team won the league championship and advanced to the Central Coast Section playoffs. She was awarded the most improved player on the team.

Born and raised in Salinas, Kata grew up in a family of six. All three of her siblings were girls.

A scholar athlete, the top student plans to choose among the UC San Diego, University of California, Davis, or University of California, Santa Barbara. Her goal is to obtain a degree in biology, and ultimately become a pediatrician.

“Education is a big thing for me,” she said. “I have big future plans for myself, which is why I push myself to work hard in school.”

Through GBA, Kata was able to travel (she played basketball and experienced different cultures in Mexico, Italy, Dominican Republic, and Costa Rica). She also toured college campuses through GBA’s visitation program.

“Not only did GBA help to develop me as a player and create a deeper love for basketball, but they helped to create the work ethic for school I have today, and I thank them for that.”

Kata has also volunteered to coach young GBA players.

“It feels so good because you are someone they look up to and you get to see them develop as a player first hand,” she said. “It’s amazing.”

Coaching also gives her an opportunity to help kids find in themselves the work ethic and ability to overcome obstacles that Kata found in herself.

The future pediatrician simply never took “no” for an answer.

Kata vividly remembers a doctor’s appointment she had as a child. Her pediatrician walked into the exam room to give her a clean bill of health. Looking at Kata’s height on a chart, the doctor told the young girl that basketball certainly wasn’t in her future.

“That broke my heart for some reason,” she said. “After we left I cried. I have had many encounters where someone told me I was too short. But really that was just talk because I showed height didn’t really matter. I learned to block out the negativity and just play my game, the one I enjoy doing and pushed to better myself.”

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

Artichoke Festival’s wild and wacky 5K Beach Run postponed until Sept. 12 along Del Monte Beach

Scheduled for May 2, the Artichoke Festival’s 5K Beach Run promised hundreds of wacky enthusiasts the chance to run along the beach dressed as their favorite vegetable.

Monterey, CA, April 04, 2020 — Scheduled for May 2, the Artichoke Festival’s 5K Beach Run promised hundreds of wacky enthusiasts the chance to run along the beach dressed as their favorite vegetable.

The current COVID-19 Shelter-in-Place requirements make that event impossible — but don’t put away those artichoke and broccoli costumes just yet. The festival has postponed the fun run, rescheduling it for Saturday, Sept. 12.

Those who registered for the May 2 event will be able to participate on Sept. 12 with no changes to fees. Those who can’t make the new date should contact the festival via email at ArtichokeFest5k@gmail.com. The festival is still taking registration through www.active.com.

The 5K Beach Run takes place along the sandy, windswept Del Monte Beach, beginning at the Monterey Tides Hotel. It was originally planned as a prelude to the two-day Artichoke Festival, but that event has now been moved to Aug. 8-9 at the Monterey County Fairgrounds & Event Center in Monterey.

For more information, visit www.artichokefestival.org.

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

VNA & Hospice celebrates National Volunteer Week with thanks to selfless folks who help others in need

Volunteers do not earn a paycheck, but their rewards cannot be measured.

Salinas, CA, April 04, 2020 - Volunteers do not earn a paycheck, but their rewards cannot be measured. At VNA, volunteers make it possible to help the nonprofit achieve its ultimate goal — to provide care in an ethical, effective, compassionate and fiscally responsible manner.

With National Volunteer Week (April 19-25) approaching, VNA honors its compassionate crew of hardworking folks who give their time and boundless energy to the cause.

VNA volunteers spend every minute building the foundation of someone else’s life, which offers them deep rewards.

Hospice volunteer Jake Ragsdale believes helping people directly is the most fulfilling thing he can do, and he is deeply committed to serving others.

“Often, the patients we visit are lonely and don't have family in the area, or any immediate family at all,” said Ragsdale. “Spending time with them makes them feel valued and brings them joy and purpose. Spending an hour or two with a hospice patient once per week can make their day, if not their entire week.”

Ragsdale’s payback? “It's always rewarding to show up to visit a patient and be greeted with a big smile and excitement,” he said.

Ragsdale was drawn to hospice by his mother Gail, a nurse for 44 years.

“No one should have to be alone or feel lonely during the final stage of their life,” he said. “I love hearing about the past experiences of the patients I visit, especially the veterans. Through providing emotional support, compassion, and friendship we are able to improve the quality of life for others. This is a special gift and it is deeply fulfilling.”

Fellow VNA volunteer Susan Eastman will turn 70 next month, yet the former nurse and U.S. Navy veteran never thought of retirement as an opportunity to slow down.

“Volunteering fulfills my need to be needed,” she said. “After I retired, I had spare time and wanted to fill that void. I feel my clients appreciate the effort hospice extends to them. I am glad to be a part of that.”

The most rewarding part of Eastman’s VNA experience as a patient volunteer is having made a new friend in one of the patients she visits.

“Both she and her daughter have been extremely kind and inclusive, to the point I feel like a part of their family,” Eastman said. “I never would have met them had it not been for my VNA Hospice experience.”

Another patient, a woman in a nursing home, usually doesn't remember Eastman week to week. “But I bring her a coffee from Burger King, and then she is glad to see me,” she said.

Volunteer opportunities

From the initial phone call and in person interview, VNA works with prospective volunteers to find the right fit. VNA provides an orientation and team training, where volunteers can learn more about hospice, the interdisciplinary team, and how to work with patients.

Those seeking rewarding volunteer opportunities with VNA should reach out to Volunteer Coordinator Quinn Junghans at (831) 751-5500, or email volunteer@ccvna.com.

VNA offers prospective volunteers varied options: Visiting Volunteer (direct, nonmedical support services to palliative and hospice patients and their families); Office Volunteer (skills and abilities that can be utilized in an office setting); Veteran Volunteer (connecting veteran volunteers within the community with veterans who are currently on hospice); Pet Therapy Volunteer (providing companionship and enhancing quality of life for hospice patients through visits with certified pets); and Therapy Volunteer (services and support from licensed beauticians, massage therapists and/or music therapists).

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

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

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/

VNA Receives Grant for $2,010 From Yellow Brick Road Benefit Shop in Carmel

VNA is proud to announce it has received a grant award in the amount of $2,010 from the Yellow Brick Road Benefit Shop of the Carmel Presbyterian Church.

Monterey, CA, April 02, 2020 - VNA is proud to announce it has received a grant award in the amount of $2,010 from the Yellow Brick Road Benefit Shop of the Carmel Presbyterian Church.

The mission of the grantor is "To give witness to faith in Christ and evidence of goodwill and caring by donation all store proceeds, less operating expenses, to organizations that provide for the physical, emotional, educational and social needs of the community."

The grant award is for VNA Community Services’ CPR classes provided on-site by the VNA nurses using the American Heart Association class model. These funds provide the basic equipment to accomplish this task, including:

Adult and infant mannequins

AED trainers

BLS training DVD

Heartsaver Training DVD

Adult and infant lung bags

Adult and infant trainer masks

One-way valves

Adult and infant BVM trainer

Yellow Brick Road is an outreach ministry of Carmel Presbyterian Church. For more than 30 years, Yellow Brick Road has offered new hope to Monterey County's neediest citizens. The net proceeds of all sales in its three benefit shops is given through grants to carefully selected charities who provide critical services to men, women and children in Monterey County. To date, Yellow Brick Road has given more than $6.5 million.

An additional outreach is a scholarship program that assists dedicated young people in need of help to continue their education.

The main shop is located at 26388A Carmel Rancho Lane, adjacent to the

Barnyard Shopping Village in Carmel. For more information, call (831) 626-8480 or go to www.yellowbrickroadbenefitshop.org.

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

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

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

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