In this era of being able to find an overload of information online, sometimes it’s nice to have a comprehensive and authoritative resource in your hands. Pam Marino here, to share with you the news that the 2025-2026 Best of Monterey Bay™ Living Well magazine is out and it’s definitely worth a look.
The magazine is our annual resource guide produced in partnership with the County of Monterey Area Agency on Aging. It’s bilingual, published in both English and Spanish. Formerly known as the Senior Guide, the name was changed a few years ago to reflect the full scope of the magazine, which includes resources for people living with disabilities. Living Well is truly designed to help residents of Monterey County live well.
The AAA staff does all the heavy lifting of vetting the information and services one might need, including in advocacy, counseling, employment, caregiving, nutrition, health care, housing, skilled nursing, residential care and transportation. Even pet care resources are included.
Our team at the Weekly puts together the magazine—members of our news staff write feature stories about the interesting people who are living up to the magazine’s name. Our photographer Daniel Dreifuss visits people and programs all over the county to illustrate the array of services. The magazine is beautifully laid out by Art Director Karen Loutzenheiser.
This year Seaside native John Nash Jr. is featured on the cover. You may have seen Nash in his role as director of the Monterey Peninsula Gospel Community Choir at one of their concerts. Staff writer David Schmalz caught up with Nash for a profile about his life growing up on the Monterey Peninsula and how even though he lives in Houston for his job as a flight attendant, he returns to the Peninsula nearly every weekend to direct the choir.
Other stories include a profile by Associate Editor Erik Chalhoub of Nicole Gillott who had a stroke at age 35 and today devotes her time to helping others through her Can’t Stop. Won’t Stop. Foundation. Editor Sara Rubin details the life of retired Judge Albert H. Maldonado who now volunteers regularly at Legal Services for Seniors. I take a look at a dedicated South County volunteer, Jean Salcido, and our arts writer Agata Popęda profiles Carmel Valley artist Keith Lindberg. (For an extended version of Lindberg’s story, see the May 29 edition of the Weekly.)
If you or someone you know could use the resources found within Living Well, this is a great guide to keep on hand all year. Unlike the internet where you sometimes have to be wary of which information to trust, this guide has been fully vetted by the AAA and organized in an easy-to-use way. Flipping through the pages you may find services you might not even know existed locally or find activities that will lead to a richer and more fulfilling life.
You can pick up a copy at the AAA office, 730 La Guardia St., Salinas, and at most local senior-serving nonprofits, community centers and care centers. You can also pick up a copy at the Weekly offices, 668 Williams Ave., Seaside, or read it online at montereycountynow.com.