Covid-19

Youth Arts Collective has been publishing some great videos, walking through art projects suitable for all ages. In the latest video , join YAC artists Marcia Perry and Raven Cook as they teach you how to make your very own spiral mobile! These are beautiful, decorative pieces where you can let your creativity run wild.

Paris Bakery is offering is a little grab-and-go lunch for everyone age 21 and up to enjoy whether you're eating at home, enjoying a patio picnic, or dropping something special off for a loved one. Pictured here is a jambon beurre sandwich, apple custard, and red wine. Our picnic offerings can be tailored to your taste! Call us at 831-646-1620.

Most of you have probably heard that the State of California and Monterey County lifted the indoor mask mandate on February 16 for people who are vaccinated for Covid.**

This means that, as of February 16, businesses in Downtown Old Monterey are not required to enforce masking and social distancing for anyone who's been vaccinated. Keep in mind that they can still request that everyone wear a mask while on their premises.

Please remember that each small business is run by someone who has a family and is dealing with challenges that you can't see. If a business is still requiring everyone to wear a mask regardless of vaccination status, they surely have a good reason for doing so.

Please help us by being your most compassionate and understanding self. If wearing a mask is not something you're willing to do, just take your money to another business until their rules change.

What if you want to keep wearing a mask? If you're vaccinated but still want to wear a mask, you're allowed to do so regardless of what other people are doing around you.

**Not vaccinated? Please keep your mask on indoors. Want to get vaccinated and/or boosted? You can make an appointment here.

Throughout Monterey County, face masks will be required to be worn indoors in public spaces beginning Friday, November 5. This is because Monterey County has reached the "substantial" community transmission level of Covid-19 according to the CDC. For details, please read this short article in Monterey County Weekly by Pam Marino.

There are some exceptions to the mask mandate, all covered in the article . These exceptions include indoor dining, situations in which a mask would "impede a medical or cosmetic procedure," or at a meeting where all vaccinated people have shown proof of vaccination (unvaccinated people still have to wear masks).

We thank you for your patience, your compassion in these unusual times, and your continued support of Downtown Old Monterey's small, locally-owned businesses.

As of this week, Golden State Theatre requires all patrons entering the theatre to show either: 1) proof of full vaccination or 2) proof of a negative Covid test within 72 hours of showtime.

Results of rapid Covid tests (non-PCR tests) will be accepted. View a full list of Covid testing sites in Monterey County here.

The State of California is continuing its incentive program to get as many people as possible vaccinated for Covid-19. On July 1, all Californians over age 18 who have received the vaccine will be entered into a drawing to receive one of six dream vacations (including hotels, food, and entertainment for up to four people plus $2000 for expenses). Read details here.

Want to find out where to get a free Covid-19 vaccine? Find a location here.

By now, all of you have probably heard that California reopened on June 15. You may be asking: what does that mean?

It means that most, but not all, Covid-19 related public health orders have been lifted for all the lucky people who've been vaccinated. For people who haven't been vaccinated, the new rules are somewhat relaxed, but remain similar to what they were before.

As of June 15, businesses in Downtown Old Monterey no longer have any capacity limits and most are not required to enforce masking and social distancing for anyone who's been vaccinated, Keep in mind that they can still request that everyone wear a mask while on their premises.

If a business is still requiring everyone to wear a mask regardless of vaccination status, they surely have a good reason for doing so. Please remember that each small business is run by someone who has a family and is dealing with challenges that you can't see. While we're all thrilled to be starting the return to normal, the reality is that for people operating shops, restaurants, and services, things are still a long way from normal. 2021 is going to be a year of transition.

Please help us by being your most compassionate and understanding self. If wearing a mask is not something you're willing to do, just take your money to another business until their rules change.

If you're vaccinated but still want to continue to wear a mask, you're welcome to do that regardless of what other people are doing around you.

Want to get vaccinated for Covid-19? Now is a great time to get vaccinated - there are many free appointments available in Monterey County . Increased vaccination rates protect your physical health as well as our economic health. We simply do not want to return to shutdowns and curfews. Vaccines are the most important tool we have to return California to a vibrant, growing, and healthy economy. Anda!

On Sunday, June 13, 5pm-8pm, local jazz favorite the Stu Reynolds Saxtet will perform at MidiCi Pizza, located at 467 Alvarado Street. No cover charge. Enjoy dinner and a show!

The Stu Reynolds Saxtet features Stu Reynolds on saxophone, Steve Uccello on bass, and Adam Astrup on guitar.

Covid-19 restrictions are definitely lessening as we move towards a more "normal" situation in California. Unfortunately, we don't feel confident bringing 20,000 people together quite yet. Consequently, we will not be hosting a Fourth of July Parade in 2021.

With that said, the Old Monterey Business Association is already looking forward to next year with marching bands, floats, and the whole array of community groups and supporters coming together for Independence Day 2022! We wish everyone a safe, sane, and healthy 4th of July.

Grace Lifestyle Boutique has recently received some gorgeous new jewelry by California designers. Stop by the shop at 459 Alvarado Street and check out our selection of adornments along with our women's clothing and gifts.