Summer 2026

236 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • S U M M E R 2 0 2 6 ~ THE P EN I NS U L A S C ENE ~ 33rd Annual Comics for Kids Photos by Kelli Uldall T he Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County celebrated its 33rd Annual Comics for Kids Event on April 18, 2026, at The Inn at Spanish Bay. More than 330 guests attended the gala hosted by Joel McHale, with Dina Ruiz serving as auction host.The evening featured auctions, dinner, youth performances, and speakers, raising more than $1.1 million for Monterey County youth. Gail Griggs, Andy & Debi Stephens Shannon Elmore, Rachel Balestreri, Anjanette Adams, Liv Warehan Jackie & Josh Stratton, Mandy Brooks Monica Sciuto, Karina Rusk, Cassady Velasco Suzanne Marden, Carolyn Khourie, Beth Menon Kayla Crocker, Monica Ferreira, Nikki Guichet, Vanessa Juarez-Mendieta, Alyssa Seva’aetasi Leanne & Steve Troy, Bettye Saxon Vince Balestreri, Nate Elmore, Bob Theker, Teddy Balestreri Barb Stuart, Ed Zander, Woody Stuart, Matt Khourie Judah Matthews, Jayme Case, Joanne Storkan, Rick Storkan Ron Johnson, Joel McHale Joe & Beth Heston James Derbin, Monica Lal Margo & Tim Daniels Photos: Kelli Uldall Sylvia Panetta, Christian Kolberg, Leon Panetta