On August 25, 2023 the very first event in the Jazz at the Ranch concert series dazzled 250 attendees and Rancho Cielo students alike. The evening began with a VIP Party at 4:30 p.m. to thank all of the wonderful sponsors and committee members who made the concert series possible, all for the benefit of Rancho Cielo students. During the VIP Party, Founder Judge John Phillips spoke of the students and how they are the entire reason behind the Jazz at the Ranch concert series, “The positive energy on the campus – the kids, the staff, and the volunteers - it’s just a real positive place where we have 216 kids now are turning their lives around and doing something.” Chef Bert Cutino, Founder of the Drummond Culinary Academy at Rancho Cielo, spoke of the inception of the culinary program in particular. In fact, many of the Culinary Academy students were present during the event, serving and assisting with the Star Market cheese table. The goal was always to help students develop real world skills that they can take from the Culinary Academy into the real world. “So that’s what we did: we designed it like a restaurant,” Said Cutino. “And still the kids have an opportunity to work in that particular situation, because that’s where they’re going to work in their real life, right?” After the VIP Party, general Happy Hour began at 6:00 p.m. Food selections included Chef Bert Cutino’s World Famous Abalone Bisque, BBQ from Stonies Taphouse & Bistro, Star Market cheese, Just Baked pastries, Folktale Winery & Vineyards wine, Other Brother Brewery beer, and California Seltzer Company selections. Rancho Cielo honey was also for sale at the event, if attendees wanted to leave with something sweet. After Happy Hour, attendees were ushered into the Sally Hughes Church Amphitheater for a welcome and a performance of the Star Spangled Banner. Tony Lindsay and the Soul Soldiers began their stellar performance at 7:30 p.m., wowing the crowd with several jazz classics and a few originals. The intimate venue allowed the performance to be interactive, with Tony Lindsay and Co inviting patrons to dance, clap, and weigh in on song choices. As the night wore on, the sun went down, and the city lights twinkled in the background. After the performance concluded, attendees were invited to stay for Verve Coffee, treats, and mingling with the talented band. Contact Information Emily Basanese Communications Officer Ebasanese@ranchocieloyc.org 831 524 3032 More about the Jazz at the Ranch concert series: General admission starts at $100, which includes heavy hors d'oeuvres prepared by acclaimed Monterey chefs, Folktale Wine, craft beer from a selection of local breweries, Verve Coffee, and pre-concert entertainment by members of the Youth Orchestra Salinas. All proceeds from this concert series will go directly to Rancho Cielo’s Mental Health program and Arts program. FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 1 | 6:00 p.m. Bruce Forman & Cow Bop Internationally acclaimed jazz guitarist with Texas Western Swing. cowbop.com FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 8 | 6:00 p.m. The Monterey Jazz Festival Regional All-Star Band & Vocal Ensemble montereyjazzfestival.org FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 15 | 6:00 p.m. Youth Orchestra Salinas A very special performance by members the YOSAL staff of internationally acclaimed instructors. yosal.org FRIDAY | SEPTEMBER 29 | 6:00 p.m. Monty Alexander Grammy® nominee and legendary pianist. montyalexander.com FRIDAY | OCTOBER 6 | 6:00 p.m. Paula West A Tribute to Bob Dylan. mspaulawest.com With immense gratitude to our generous sponsors, including Taylor Farms as our featured sponsor, we are thrilled to bring the Jazz at the Ranch concert series to the community in association with The Monterey Jazz Festival and YOSAL. This highly anticipated event is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience. About Rancho Cielo Rancho Cielo has become the school of choice for many of Monterey County's youth seeking an alternative option in high school education. Program graduates leave with a WASC-accredited high school diploma offered through our academic partner, John Muir Charter School, and the opportunity to enter the workforce and/or enroll in post-secondary education. Rancho Cielo works with students who learn differently and offers them a chance to earn diplomas and gain job skills. Students learn in a safe, supportive environment that affirms them and builds selfesteem, connectedness, and belonging. Contact Information Emily Basanese Communications Officer Ebasanese@ranchocieloyc.org 831 524 3032 Rancho Cielo creates an atmosphere where students develop pro-social desires, a future orientation, enhanced health and self-esteem, and a connection to the community. Established as a non-profit in 2000, Rancho Cielo has served over 1,500 out-of-school 16–24 year-old youth during its history. Services are offered through seven programs: • Drummond Culinary Academy • Construction & Sustainable Design Academy • Ag Technology & Mechatronics • Auto & Diesel Repair • Welding & Fabrication • Youth Corps • Silver Star Program