Hofsas House Hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea Invites You to Get Out and Bike

In Carmel-by-the-Sea, the Theis family is celebrating more than six decades of European hospitality at its beautiful Bavarian-inspired Hofsas House Hotel, which is as charming as the town itself.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA, July 31, 2014 - In Carmel-by-the-Sea, the Theis family is celebrating more than six decades of European hospitality at its beautiful Bavarian-inspired Hofsas House Hotel, which is as charming as the town itself. With firm roots in the past, the family is looking toward the future by keeping abreast of guests’ every need.

The Hofsas House Invites You To Get Out And Bike! (Available All Year)

The Hofsas House invites you to celebrate the unique power of the bicycle and the many reasons we ride. One of General Manager Carrie Thies' favorite bike routes is about five miles that goes from the Hofsas House, down to Scenic Avenue going south along the Carmel Bay and to the Carmel River. Stop by the Carmel Mission for a bit of history and go along Rio Road and cross Highway 1 and have lunch at Rio Grill http://www.riogrill.com/. The grilled artichoke is the best!

We can have bikes delivered to the Hotel for a half day or entire day rental or we can arrange to have you pick them up in Monterey near the Coastal Bike Path for a half a day rental.
Special Offer includes 2 Hybrid Bikes with gears for 4 hours for the price of one, a $27 savings, with any two night stay. With 24 hours notice, the bikes can be delivered to the hotel.

Enjoy This Hofsas House Pick! Best Sunday Ride -
Depart the Hofsas House Hotel and bike down to Mission Ranch for Sunday Brunch. Cruise down Ocean Avenue and then follow Scenic Drive around the bluffs of Carmel to the Carmel River Beach. Stop and enjoy the scenery of Point Lobos, check out the birding spot and continue biking through the quaint residential streets of Carmel-by-the-Sea to Mission Ranch! Brunch is served. Ahhh the perfect Sunday.

Don't Forget to Ride Your Bike on Thursdays. Receive Special Offers at Local Restaurants!

HER Helmet Thursdays is an ecology-economy sustainability project offering discounts for people who bike. Discounts are for males and females, visitors and locals. http://marilynch.com/blog/her-helmet-thursdays

Photography Available Upon Request:
Media FAM Trips Available Upon Request. Air fare Not Included. All FAM Trips Subject to Availability.

Hofsas House Background:
Owned and operated by the Theis Family, Hofsas House Hotel is within walking distance of everything Carmel has to offer, including a stunning beach, fine restaurants and shops, and wine tasting. It provides peaceful respite and European charm just minutes from Monterey , Pebble Beach, Big Sur and Pacific Grove . The Hofsas House’s 38 spacious, one-of-a-kind rooms boast European comfort and lovely views, not to mention amenities like fireplaces, private balconies, wet bars, kitchens and patios. Large suites provide the perfect stay for newlyweds and everyone else seeking an extra special getaway. Dutch doors in every room allow guests to welcome in the ocean air, and free WiFi enables them to stay connected — if they want to.

The Hofsas House Hotel family works to ensure every visitor's experience is special, striving to offer the highest quality personal services. Consider the continental breakfast, abundant with fresh French Roast coffee, tea, juice, fruit and pastries from a neighborhood bakery, or the personalized concierge services for guests and their families, including their four-legged family members, who are welcome, as well.

For large groups — wedding parties, company meetings, family reunions and others — Hofsas House Hotel offers a spacious room equipped with a fireplace and full kitchen that can comfortably accommodate 40 people. A heated pool, dry saunas, decks with views and off-street parking are on offer as well.

Hofsas House Hotel is located on San Carlos Street, north of Fourth Avenue in Carmel-by-the-Sea. For more information, call (831) 624-2745 or visit www.hofsashouse.com. Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/hofsashousehotel

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Hofsas House Hotel
Between 3rd & 4th Ave
on San Carlos Street.
P.O. Box 1195
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93921
831-747-7455
pr@straightlinepr.com
http://www.hofsashouse.com

New York City Based Urban-Flamenco Guitarist Eric Kamen to Release New Music Video for Lead Single “The Lost Tribe” off Instrumental Album Serenades July 31

Blending both his love for flamenco guitar and hip-hop, Eric Kamen has created a new-found fusion of world music which he calls “Urban Flamenco.”

Los Angeles, CA, July 31, 2014 – Blending both his love for flamenco guitar and hip-hop, Eric Kamen has created a new-found fusion of world music which he calls “Urban Flamenco.”

His latest release, Serenades will leave you dancing just like the music video for lead single “The Lost Tribe.” A subtle, relaxing song that draws you in with romantic riffs and a catchy beat, “The Lost Tribe” is just a taste for what’s to come in Serenades.

The accompanying music video, produced and directed by Pola Rapaport and shot by DP Wolfgang Held, is a fresh take and spin on Spanish flamenco music. Shot in a dance studio, four young women take to the rehearsal space auditioning and interpret “The Lost Tribe” with a variety of contemporary hip-hop, urban, and pop dance passages and mirror Kamen’s guitar precise playing.

Following his first successful experimental release, Native Unit, Serenades is an eclectic set of fifteen songs that will transfer listeners to a serene Spanish village featuring other stand-out tracks “A Rose From Russia” and “Red Moon.”

Serenades will be available for purchase on iTunes and Amazon and all major digital outlets on September 2.

Watch the video for “The Lost Tribes”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ezq6_ktD-3s

Contact:
Chip Schutzman
Miles High Productions
P.O. Box 93157
Hollywood, CA 90093
323-806-0400
http://www.mileshighproductions.com/

Adventure Vietnam offers a new volunteerism program named "Exploring Vietnam's Charm - Bringing Smiles and Happiness to Disadvantaged People"

"Exploring Vietnam's Charm - Bringing Smiles and Happiness to Disadvantaged People"

Hanoi, Vietnam, July 30, 2014 - Adventure Vietnam (adventurevietnam.com) invites travelers to join its new Volunteerism program named "EXPLORING VIETNAM'S CHARM - BRINGING SMILES AND HAPPINESS TO DISADVANTAGED PEOPLE".

With understanding that not all our volunteers can spare several weeks to work on a community projects, but would dearly love to give a little something to Vietnam. Adventure Vietnam has designed an itinerary which allows travelers to spend a couple of days volunteering as well as time to explore.

Within 8 days 7 night, this community trip highlighted by bringing smiles and happiness to disadvantaged children; experiencing living in this bustling, vibrant city ? a lifetime of memories; exploring the city's markets - a truly Vietnamese experience or staying in a family run hotel and experiencing real Vietnamese hospitality.

"We work with a number of orphanages/disabled children centers across Hanoi and you will be placed in one of them depending on need and availability. The children who live at the orphanages/disabled children centers are both male and female and are aged between 1 and 18 years, with the older children attending school during the day. We also work with a shelter specifically for boys as well. Some of the children living at the orphanages have special needs and you will also be volunteering with these children too. The centers that we work with can vary in size from 20 to 250 children, so be prepared for a busy schedule!" Said Xuan Truong as head of the new department from 1 June 2014

As a partner of Adventure Vietnam (adventurevietnam.com) you will receive a NET rate option which will allow you to independently promote and sell the program as a representative of your country of residence.

To enable you to better understand what is involved, Adventure Vietnam's Head department Mr. Xuan Truong at sales@adventurevietnam.com will provide all the necessary project information which will also give you the basis for program promotion and marketing

About adventure Vietnam:
With more than 10 years experience in voluntourism projects for communities in Vietnam, the team at Adventure Vietnam (adventurevietnam.com) is considered as one of the leading companies in this field and has the confidence and respect of both local and international partners.

Every year, hundreds of travelers and volunteers from different countries are welcomed and placed into a range of meaningful projects by Adventure Vietnam (adventurevietnam.com). Traveler and volunteers' final reports show their satisfaction with its services and many of them express a desire to return to Vietnam.

Contact:
Doan Hong Linh (Ms.)
Marketing Executive
Luxury Travel Ltd
05 Nguyen Truong To Str.,
Ba Dinh Dist, Hanoi 84444
Vietnam
+ 84.4.39274120 Ext 122
marketing3@luxurytravelvietnam.com
http://www.adventurevietnam.com

Fundacion Seneca: 'Thanks to AuraPortal, we always Know the Status of our Activities

AuraPortal has provided all the necessary tools to apply a complete and integral management without using programming, and has proved the ultimate tool to achieve excellence, quality and effectiveness in the foundation's processes.

Woburn, MA, July 30, 2014 - AURA (www.auraportal.com), a global provider of AuraPortal Business Process Management (BPM) software, has announced that Fundacion Seneca -Science and Technology Agency in Murcia (Spain)- has so far implemented more than 15 processes which handle the overall operations, from the administrative documentation register right through to full record tracking.

AuraPortal has been distinguished with great advantage over its competitors by Ovum in its Decision Matrix report and by other renowned analyst firms.

The fact that the process modeling does not require a single line of programming code (a characteristic exclusive to AuraPortal) means that the foundation has been able to make changes in seconds, automations and improvements in the management and communication of the Technical-Administration Department, and also improvements in quality to comply with established strategies and respond to new challenges.

"Thanks to AuraPortal's great versatility and the excellent customer-supplier feedback, the project has been a big success. All members of the foundation have noticed an improvement in the processes, as they now take much less time to perform their tasks. Documents are generated automatically and the status of the foundation and all of the areas involved are known in real-time." Says Juan J. Fuentes Monserrate, IT Manager at Fundacion Seneca.

About Fundacion Seneca:
Fundacion Seneca, Science and Technology Agency in Murcia (Spain), belongs to the public sector and was created in 1996 in order to cooperate in the development and implementation of programs promoting research and to help develop the capabilities of science, technology and innovation systems.

The agency contributes to the planning, implementation and monitoring of regional policies on research and innovation and to the definition of new management models. It promotes support programs for research talent, the generation and evaluation of scientific and technical knowledge, researcher mobility, and the dissemination of scientific culture, under the criteria of cooperation and internationalization.

About AURA (http://www.auraportal.com)
AURA is a global BPM (Business Process Management) software provider delivering a solution that creates, without the need of IT programming, Business Process Workflow Execution Models. AuraPortal is 100% Web-based, and is complementary to existing ERP and CRM systems.

AURA has a presence in 40 countries with more than 300 customers including, among others: Walmart, Toyota, General Motors, Pemex (Petroleos Mexicanos), Carrefour, ArcelorMittal, PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, Danone, INCAE, Kimberly-Clark, Yamaha, Royal KPN, Bristol-Myers Squibb, etc., as well as many Government Agencies and Departments in several countries. All of these customers benefit from maintenance contracts.

It is headquartered in Europe and has an executive branch in North America (Florida). It also has offices in several countries and a vast network of partners who locally attend customers throughout the world.

Contact:
Cristina Siscar
Auraportal
400 Trade Center
Woburn, MA 01801-7472
978-808-6340
pr@straightlinepr.com
http://www.auraportal.com

The OPA 2014 Western Exhibition will be held at Mountainsong Galleries, in Carmel-By-The-Sea, California

Oil Painters of America Western Regional Show: August 30 - September 30 Opening Reception August 30 5:00 - 8:00

Carmel-The –Sea, CA, July 30, 2014 - The 2014 Oil Painters of America Western Exhibition will be held at the Mountainsong Galleries in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California. Mountainsong Galleries is the proud home to many OPA artists and displays a wide range of art from impressionism to sculptures. The gallery will prove to be a model venue for this year’s exhibition because Mountainsong Galleries represents so many of the Master Artists of OPA. “Our goal is to assemble the finest display of representational oil paintings,” Lucinda Mountainsong Owner of Mountainsong Galleries. “The focus in the jurying process will be to select paintings that show the highest quality in draftsmanship, color, and composition, emphasizing a diversity in representational style and subject matter.”

Juror of Awards for the 2014 Oil Painters of America Western Exhibition: OPA Master Signature member Marilyn Simandle has exhibited in over 80 one-woman shows throughout the United States and has become internationally known and collected by both individuals and corporations worldwide.

Marilyn is a master Signature Member of Oil Painters of America (OPA), a Signature member of the American Watercolor Society, Plein-Air Painters of America (PAPA) and the California Art Club. Marilyn has received many awards in nationally juried shows, among them: the prestigious "High Winds Medal" from the Watercolor Society in 1992 and 1993; in 1997 the Oil Painters of American (OPA) West Coast Regional "First Place"; "People Choice Award", OPA National Show, 1998; and the Shiryl Smithson OPA Memorial Award in 1999.

Save the Date
• Oil Painters of America Western Regional Show: August 30 - September 30
• Opening Reception August 30th 5:00 - 8:00
• Reception at Mountainsong Galleries
• RSVP Required Phone: (831) 626-0600

Mountainsong Galleries on Ocean Avenue in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California is the place to find more of today's OPA and AIS Master Artists than anywhere in the World. The Mountainsongs have created a world class collection of living Master Artists. The passion, dedication and love an artist puts into their work is extraordinary. Acquiring a work by a living artist is truly becoming a part of that artist's life. It is an honor. The Mountainsongs are delighted to share this top notch collection with you.

Save the dates for this upcoming exhibitions. (all receptions open to the public with an RSVP)
• Huihan Liu & Weizhen Liang - Couples Show: October 4th - October 31st
• Opening Reception October 4th 5:00 - 7:00
• Huihan Liu, AISM, OPAM and his wife Weizhen Liang, AISM

Details on Mountainsong Galleries:
• Location: Ocean Avenue between San Carlos and Mission Carmel-by-the-Sea, California View Map
• Phone: (831) 626-0600
• Private Viewings By Appointment - Call 831-233-8255
• Website: http://www.mountainsonggalleries.com/
• Hours of Operation Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday 10 – 6 Beginning August 1st (Closed Tuesday and Wednesday)

Please contact Lucinda Mountainsong at 831-626-0600 or Lucinda@mountainsonggalleries.com for additional details

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Mountainsong Galleries
PO Box 3396
Ocean Avenue 3 SE Of San Carlos
Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921-3396
831-747-7455
http://www.mountainsonggalleries.com

Entrepreneurial Evangelist Patrick Kucera on the Cover of Opportunist Magazine

The Entrepreneurial Evangelist and international speaker as well as the founder of multiple businesses, brands, trademarks and ministries was featured on the July cover of Opportunist Magazine.

Kansas City, July 30, 2014 - PK The Entrepreneurial Evangelist and international speaker as well as the founder of multiple businesses, brands, trademarks and ministries was featured on the July cover of Opportunist Magazine.

In the article, Kucera, founder of The Jetstream Network, talks with Opportunist’s award winning Managing Editor Leslie Stone, about his entrepreneurial message of hope and innovation. He speaks about why he believes now is the time for Americans to experience “The Revival of Revenue.” Stone adds, “It was such an honor to interview Patrick Kucera. His story is inspiring, and I believe our readers will appreciate his heartfelt message. The recession is not a distant memory quite yet and fewer people believe the American Dream is still attainable. So I think innovators like Patrick and his ‘Revival of Revenue’ can help pave the way to a better economy for us all.”

Stone asked Kucera to clarify what exactly an entrepreneurial evangelist is. Kucera explained that, “Entrepreneurs create revenue and evangelists create revival. Therefore, I am leading ‘The Revival of Revenue.’ I teach people how to be resourceful and profitable. Economic and spiritual freedom were the foundation of our nation’s beginning and ‘In God We Trust’ is still on our currency.”

PK emphasizes his belief that there are two economies … one with God and one without God. He wants people to know that contrary to popular belief, it is OK to make more for The Glory of God. Many times he has witnessed people being more profitable and gaining wealth in this world, while finding their soul in the process of doing it. That’s what an entrepreneurial evangelist does.

Media Contact: Terry Warren
Tel 949-743-4065 Email terry_warrenpr@yahoo.com

Since 1988, Patrick Kucera has been training and inspiring leaders across America and around the world on how to fly above the turbulence of life by elevating in “The Jetstream”, entering into God's Economy and experiencing "The Revival of Revenue." His original thought and fresh perspective that challenges conventional wisdom has been promoted extensively. His innovative ideas on how to implement these principles for the benefit of both the secular and sacred world, have captured the attention of world leaders at the highest level.

Patrick Kucera: www.patrickskucera.com

Contact:
Terry Warren
Warren and Associates
2575 McCabe Way Suite 250
Irvine, CA 92614
949-743-406
terry_warrenpr@yahoo.com
http://www.patrickskucera.com

Lady Justice and the Pharaoh’s Curse debuts at #1 on Amazon

Lady Justice and the Pharaoh’s Curse, volume #17 in Robert Thornhill’s award-winning Lady Justice mystery/comedy series

Independence, MO, July 28, 2014 - Lady Justice and the Pharaoh’s Curse, volume #17 in Robert Thornhill’s award-winning Lady Justice mystery/comedy series, made its debut on Amazon reaching the #1 rank in Amazon’s ‘Cozy Mystery’ and ‘Humor’ categories and #2 in Amazon’s ‘Top 100’ with over 48,000 readers downloading the Kindle edition.

This is the fourth time in the last twelve months that a Thornhill mystery has reached #1 in Amazon’s ‘Cozy Mystery’ and ‘Humor’ categories.

Previous winners include Lady Justice and the Vet in November, Lady Justice and the Assassin in January, and Lady Justice and the Organ Traders in May.

In an Amazon review, E. Whitaker writes: “A stolen artifact, a string of murders, and the claim of an ancient curse are all intricately woven into this new book by Robert Thornhill. Are all these events related or is it merely coincidence? This riveting and well-written mystery delves deep into the past while remaining grounded in the present.

“This tale of mayhem and murder explores the past and present and takes the baffled Kansas City Police down a road with many twists and turns. The clues are all there, but will they make sense? Can the mystery be solved in time?

“Robert Thornhill has once again created a plot that will keep the reader guessing right up to the very end. His focus on events, interesting characters, and depiction of real-life situations is what makes the book come alive. The main plot is accompanied by subplots that come together to tell a fascinating story. This work of fiction is well-researched, compelling, and an all-around great read. Navigate through the twists and turns with Walt as he uncovers what could be the most perplexing mystery yet.”

To date, the Lady Justice series has garnered fourteen awards including the Pinnacle Book Award for ‘Best New Mystery Novel’ from the National Association of Book Entrepreneurs, “Honorable Mention’ from the Great Midwest Book Festival. And ‘Five Star Reviews’ from Reader’s Favorite.

For more details, reviews and the first chapter, go to:
http://booksbybob.com/lady-justice-and-the-pharaohs-curse_416.html
http://amzn.to/1yHlnGE

Contact:
Robert Thornhill
Books By Bob
21312 E. 37th Terr Ct S
Independence, MO 64057
660-383-6011

http://www.booksbybob.com

John Collard Honored With Maryland’s Most Admired CEO Award

The Daily Record has named John M. Collard, Chairman & CEO, Strategic Management Partners, Inc. as one of Maryland’s 2014 Most Admied CEOs.

Annapolis, MD, July 28, 2014 - The Maryland Daily Record (www.TheDailyRecord.com) created the Most Admired CEOs awards program to recognize talented business CEOs and nonprofit executive directors throughout Maryland for their leadership and professionalism. The winners are selected based on their leadership and vision; competitiveness and innovation; community leadership and service; financial performance and growth; corporate leadership and board service; and nonprofit involvement.

Applications must include letters of recommendation from current staff and at least one letter from a nonprofit or board on which the CEO serves. Winners are selected by a panel of business and legal professionals and a representative of The Daily Record.

“The Daily Record honors the Most Admired CEOs not only for their many accomplishments and outstanding leadership but also for having the insight to select carefully those with whom they surround themselves,” said Suzanne Fischer-Huettner, publisher of The Daily Record. “Their decision making, creativity, leadership and commitment to a better Maryland speak to their character and serve as an example to employees and to their communities.
We at The Daily Record are honored to recognize these inspiring individuals.”

“I am honored to be selected for this prestigious award. It is high praise coming from The Daily Record,” said John M. Collard, CEO, Chairman of Strategic Management Partners, Inc. www.StrategicMgtPartners.com “We serve as Turnaround Interim CEOs and outside directors for companies that are in trouble and in need of leadership. Turnarounds can be a re-beginning — we must build teams, differentiate and sell products and services, secure capitalization, and grow. It is a disgrace when boards of directors watch value deteriorate and allow their company to become distressed.” He continued “turnaround specialists can be an option to stabilize the situation and rebuild value. Turnaround management strategies and raising capital will certainly play a key role in any recovery.”

About The Daily Record
For more than 125 years, The Daily Record Company has provided trusted legal and business information to Maryland readers. In addition to the daily newspaper published five days a week, The Daily Record publishes its website, five blogs, Business Buzz, Eye on Annapolis, Generation J.D., Ground Up and On the Record; four e-newsletters, TDR Insider, Real Estate Weekly, Auction Notices and Best Practices; and a variety of special publications on topics of interest to Maryland business and legal professionals.

About the Honoree:
John M. Collard is a Certified Turnaround Professional (CTP), and a Certified International Turnaround Manager (CITM), who brings over 35 years senior operating leadership, $85M+ asset and investment recovery, 45+ transactions worth $1.2B, and $80M fund management expertise to run troubled companies, serve on boards, advise company boards, litigators, institutional and private equity investors, and raise capital. John has parachuted in as the Interim CEO, CRO or senior executive to turn around troubled entities, and serves as an outside director. John is Chairman of Strategic Management Partners, Inc. in Annapolis, Maryland. John is inducted into the Turnaround Management, Restructuring, and Distressed Investing Industry Hall Of Fame. John is Past Chairman of the Turnaround Management Association (TMA), Chairman of the Association of Interim Executives (AIE), and a Senior Fellow of the Turnaround Management Society. John is a Founder of TMA. John was honored as Prince Georges Business Leader of the Year. John is honored with the Interim Management Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association of Interim Executives. John is a 2014 Maryland Most Admired CEO.

About the Firm:
Strategic Management Partners, Inc. (www.StrategicMgtPartners.com 410-263-9100) is a turnaround management firm specializing in interim management and executive CEO leadership, asset and investment recovery, board and private equity advisory, raising money, and investing in and rebuilding distressed underperforming troubled companies. The firm has been advisor to Presidents Bush (41 & 43), Clinton, Reagan, and Yeltsin, World Bank, EBRD, Company Boards, and Equity Capital Investors on leadership, rebuilding troubled companies, investment recovery, turnaround management and equity investing. SMP is celebrating 25 years of service to its clients. SMP was named Maryland's Small Business of the Year, and received the Governor's Citation, Governor Martin J. O’Malley, State of Maryland as a special tribute to honor work in the areas of turning around troubled companies and saving jobs in Maryland. Turnarounds & Workouts Magazine twice named SMP among the Top Outstanding Turnaround Management Firms. American Business Journals named SMP among the Most Active Turnaround Management and Consulting Firms in Baltimore, Washington, and the Mid-Atlantic Region. Global M&A Network Turnaround Atlas Awards named SMP as Boutique Turnaround Consulting Firm of the Year.

Contact:
John Collard
Strategic Management Partners, Inc.
522 Horn Point Drive
Annapolis, Maryland 21403
410-263-9100
Strategist@aol.com
http://www.StrategicMgtPartners.com

Outstanding Line-up of Performers and Schedule Announced for the 16th Annual Monterey Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival

An great slate of multi-award-winning performers have been scheduled for the 16th Annual Monterey Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival to be held November 21-23, 2014.

Monterey, CA, July 28, 2014 - An great slate of multi-award-winning performers have been scheduled for the 16th Annual Monterey Cowboy Poetry and Music Festival (www.montereycowboy.org) to be held November 21-23, 2014. Featuring the "best of the best" performers, tickets for the Monterey Cowboy Poetry & Music Festival are now on sale including the crowd-pleasing Monterey Cowboy Festival All Event Pass and tickets to each of the individual shows.

The Festival's outstanding 2014 performer line-up includes multi-award-winning performers - the best of the best! Festival attendees will enjoy seeing many of their favorites over the weekend: Juni Fisher, Dave Stamey, Paul Zarzyski, Cow Bop, Verlon Thompson, Arvel Bird, Tom Russell, The Munsick Boys, Doris Daley, Mikki Daniel, Old West Trio and Chris Isaacs.

The schedule is below and more information is available at www.montereycowboy.org. For sponsorships or other information, call (831) 633-4444.

This year’s official Festival poster is a Mike Gannon original oil painting entitled, "Rose’s Cantina". Mr. Gannon is a well-known Western artist rising in prominence in the Southwest. Mike lives and paints in Santee, California. http://mikegannonart.com.

About The Monterey Cowboy Poetry & Music Festival:
The Monterey Cowboy Poetry & Music Festival is a popular annual event for all ages. It celebrates Monterey's contribution to our western heritage with cowboy poetry, music and a first class Cowboy Art & Western Marketplace. The festival brings together people from all over the United States and Canada to enjoy and learn more about the "cowboy way of life," including its culturally diverse history, including the Vaqueros and Californios and the Mexican and Spanish traditions, plus its current values and cowboy culture.

The festival has many shows scheduled over the three days plus a fabulous Cowboy Happy Hour with Meet and Greet with some of the performers on Friday night. There is also a Late Night Jam Session on Friday night, a Saturday Night Dance with a Best Dressed Cowboy and Cowgirl Contest, the Cowboy Art & Western Marketplace, a Vaquero Breakfast, Silent Auction and adult Open Mic. There is a special Sunday morning Cowboy Church, which benefits The Salvation Army and features many of the top performers of the weekend.

There are different performance sessions throughout the weekend that fits everyone’s schedule and interests, with a great mix of cowboy music and poetry. Come out and celebrate the “Cowboy Way of Life” in a comfortable indoor setting in beautiful downtown Monterey!

About the Cowboy Art & Western Marketplace:
The Cowboy Art & Western Marketplace features over two dozen artisans that offer an array of interesting items for Christmas gifts and collectors, including outstanding Western art, photography and books, clothing, (hats, jewelry, handmade boots, belts, purses, jackets, etc.), custom and antique saddles, Navajo blankets and much more.

About the Cowboys in the Schools Program:
The Monterey Cowboy Poetry & Music Festival also coordinates the popular “Cowboys in the Schools Program” with a special educational event that will be held at the Carmel Valley Trail and Saddle Club in early October, 2014 for hundreds of visiting schoolchildren. During the school year, volunteers work with local educators to introduce the concept of Cowboy Culture and the influence of the vaquero to a diverse group of elementary school students. This "Cowboy Way of Life" program helps to teach youth self-esteem, ethics, values, writing, art and history. Young people also participate in the "Open Mic" event during the festival weekend. Monterey County has a long historic cowboy tradition that is celebrated at the Festival events.

Sponsors are now being sought to underwrite the costs of the Monterey Cowboy Poetry & Music Festival.

For more information about the Monterey Cowboy Poetry & Music Festival, to become a valued sponsor, or a volunteer, visit the website at www.montereycowboy.org.

Here’FRIDAY, November 21, 2014
4-6 PM COWBOY HAPPY HOUR hors d'oeuvres, wine & beer. Come meet/greet our performers, sponsors and volunteers from 4:00 to 6:00pm.

6:00 PM COWBOY ART & WESTERN MARKETPLACE (De Anza Ballroom to 10pm)
6:45 PM to
9 PM Laissez Les Bon Temp Rouler

Mariachis, Chris Issacs, Juni Fisher, Cow Bop, Tom Russell
9:10 PM Dave Stamey special appearance in the Marketplace.
9:30 PM JAM SESSION (Portola Hotel & Spa Lobby)

SATURDAY, November 22, 2014
8:45 AM VAQUERO BREAKFAST SHOW (De Anza Ballroom)
10:00 AM COWBOY ART & WESTERN MARKETPLACE (De Anza Ballroom to 10pm)
10:00 AM SIGN-UPS FOR ADULT OPEN MIC (De Anza Ballroom)
10:30 AM Writing the Range

Paul Zarysky, Verlon Thompson, Dave Stame\y, Mikki Daniel
11:00 AM ADULT OPEN MIC SESSION (De Anza Ballroom Stage)
12:00 PM KIDS OPEN MIC SESSION (Steinbeck Forum)
01:00 PM Swinging the River Dance Two Step

Arvel Bird, Doris Daley, Mikki Daniel, Cow Bop
02:30 PM SILENT AUCTION OPENS (Third Floor Colton Rooms)
03:00 PM That's the West, Broken Hearts, Tappin' Toes and Saturday Nights

Chris Issacs, Verlon Thompson, Doris Daley, Old West Trio, The Munsick Boys
06:45 PM SILENT AUCTION CLOSES (Third Floor Colton Rooms)
06:45 PM Write 'em Cowboy

Mariachis, Paul Zarzyski, Dave Stamey, Juni Fisher, Tom Russell
09:30 PM DANCE (Portola Hotel & Spa, Bonsai Room)

Munsick Boys, Mikki Daniel
SUNDAY, November 23, 2014
09:00 AM COWBOY CHURCH (One Hour - donation only)

Juni Fisher, Chris Issacs, Mikki Daniel, Doris Daley, The Munsick Boys, Old West Trio
10:00 AM COWBOY ART & WESTERN MARKETPLACE (De Anza Ballroom to 4:30pm)
10:30 AM Battle of the Bands

The Munsick Boys, Cow Bop, Old West Trio
1:00 PM Arvel Bird and (local Celtic Band Reel Deal) in the Marketplace
4:30 PM COWBOY ART AND WESTERN MARKETPLACE CLOSES (De Anza Ballroom)

Contact:
Wendy Brickman
Brickman Marketing
395 Del Monte Center #250
Monterey, CA 93940
831-633-4444
http://www.BrickmanMarketing.com

“Everything Italian! Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf 2ND Annual Columbus Day Weekend Celebration

Save the Date! Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf Association is holding its special free “Everything Italian! Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf 2ND Annual Columbus Day Weekend Celebration” event on Saturday, October 11 and Sunday, October 12, 2014.

Monterey, CA, July 28, 2014 - Save the Date! Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf Association is holding its special free “Everything Italian! Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf 2ND Annual Columbus Day Weekend Celebration” event on Saturday, October 11 and Sunday, October 12, 2014. Celebrate Monterey’s Italian heritage on Fisherman’s Wharf at the 2nd Annual Columbus Day weekend event.

The “Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf 2ND Annual Columbus Day Weekend Celebration” will highlight special Italian dishes featured at the many Wharf restaurants in honor of the holiday from cannoli to torrone and beyond.

On Saturday, October 11th and Sunday, October 12th, there will be many fun family activities, with special “guests’ from history including Queen Isabella and her court, the Knights of Columbus, Tarantella Dancers and other local performers and entertainment, and much, much more. There will be lots of live music from local musicians performing Italian and traditional music. Experience a “voyage” on the seas with one of the Wharf’s Whale Watching boats, deep sea fishing boats, sailboats or the Little Mermaid Glass Bottom boat. Come see a Coast Guard Fast Boat, climb aboard and learn how they navigated their ships during Columbus’ time. Also enjoy visits by “Auxter the Otter.” Come see Italian Cars on display and play a game of Bocce. Fun for the whole family.

AT A GLANCE:

What: “Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf 2ND Annual Columbus Day Weekend Celebration held by the Monterey Old Fisherman’s Wharf Association

When: Saturday, October 11th and Sunday, October 12th from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm

Where: Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf, 1 Old Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey, CA 93940

Information: www.montereywharf.com or 831-238-0777 or info@montereywharf.com

Schedule of Activities:
Saturday (October 11, 2014) and Sunday (October 12, 2014) - Detailed schedule to be announced.
About Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf:

Visitors to Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf will want to plan their visit to include lunch or dinner at one of the many Wharf restaurants. Many restaurants will be featuring special Columbus Day Weekend small bites. By going to www.montereywharf.com, visitors to Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf can access the “Enjoy the Wonders of the Wharf” free VIP Card promotion with 27 special offers.

A visit to the beautiful Monterey Peninsula just isn’t complete without a rendezvous with Old Fisherman’s Wharf in downtown Monterey that was built in 1845 for regular passenger and freight service. Known as the “Whale Watching Capital of the World™” and a top destination of visitors from around the world, Monterey’s Old Fisherman's Wharf provides a wide array of award-winning dining, shopping, live theater, special events, whale watching, bay cruises, a glass bottom boat, marine life, fishing and sailing, and strolling leisurely in a gorgeous setting overlooking the Monterey Bay. Savor delicious cuisine at a myriad of fabulous restaurants featuring stunning views and award-winning Italian food, sustainable seafood, grass-fed steaks, including the region’s famous clam chowder and calamari. Enjoy salt water taffy, homemade chocolates, caramel apples, cotton candy and many other yummy treats. View sea otters, sea lions, dolphins, whales, sea birds and other wildlife up close and personal that also share the Wharf. Watch people who have gone out and caught their own fish on the local and chartered fishing boats return with their own “catch of the day”.

Celebrate the first location in Monterey County where tender abalone was cooked and served in a restaurant. Check out the many fun shops to find the perfect memento of your visit and a variety of unique gifts. Enjoy the exquisite views and the “best place to walk and people watch” in Monterey County!

Situated near downtown Monterey, Old Fisherman’s Wharf is conveniently located along the Monterey Bay Recreation Trail and has plenty of nearby parking.

For more information about Old Fisherman’s Wharf, go to www.montereywharf.com or call 831.238-0777.

Contact:
Wendy Brickman
Brickman Marketing
395 Del Monte Center #250
Monterey, CA 93940
831-633-4444
http://www.BrickmanMarketing.com

Mountainsong Galleries Announces it’s Final Show for 2014

Huihan Liu & Weizhen Liang - Couples Show: October 4 - October 31 Opening Reception October 4 5:00 - 7:00

Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA, July 22, 2014 - Mountainsong Galleries on Ocean Avenue in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California is the place to find more of today's OPA and AIS Master Artists than anywhere in the World. Gallery owners Jonathan and Lucinda Mountainsong have created a friendly, fun, upbeat setting filled with the works of contemporary Master Artists. Mountainsong represents some of the greatest artists of our time from coast-to-coast.

The final show at Mountainsong Galleries for 2014 features Huihan Liu & Weizhen Liang - Couples Show.

Details:
• October 4 - October 31
• Opening Reception October 4 5:00 - 7:00
o At Mountainsong Galleries
o Meet the Artists
o Sip Wine
o Enjoy a nibble
o Exclusive opportunity to meet the artists talk about their works
o RSVP required to Phone: (831) 626-0600
• Huihan Liu, AISM, OPAM and his wife Weizhen Liang, AISM
• To learn more about the artist go to http://www.mountainsonggalleries.com/common/biopopup.php?galleryId=1ED1-FGCH-6E59&artistId=3799.

About the Exhibition:
The most remarkable aspect of Huihan's art is his ability to infuse his painted characters with life and a sense of living history. For this, he is known as one of the pre-eminent narrative painters of this generation. His paintings tell a story well beyond the moment in time that is captured in the image. The people he paints are real. He is dedicated to recording the people of disappearing cultures in their native costumes and at their historical work in the high reaches of the Himalayas. Most of the images for his exhibition at Mountainsong Galleries were painted during recent trips to Tibet. The innate pride, beauty and serenity of the Tibetan people is brilliantly represented in these pieces full of delicate color and light. Liu and Liang are both artists of immense talent. Weizhen combines traditional Chinese art with impressionism to create pieces with soft colors and peacefulness. Weizhen is a Master Artist with the American Impressionist Society.In Huihan Liu's words, "My passion is to capture the Tibetan culture before it fades ... on their journey; their spirit was what inspired me to complete this work."

Artist Statement:
A master signature member of the Oil Painters of America, a master signature member of American Impressionist Society and an artist signature member of California art Club, Huihan Liu was trained in the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Art in China in 1972 with a BA and MFA from the Academy of Art College of San Francisco in 1989. With more than twenty years of his professional career as an illustrator, teacher, and painter, he won Best of Show Award in the Oil Painters of American Regional Exhibition in 1996. Huihan Liu was featured in Art of the West magazine in 1998, 2003, and 2005; in The Artist’ Magazine in April 1999; and in Southwest Art in April 2000.

Media Interviews Available Upon Request

Additional Photography Available Upon Request

Details on Mountainsong Galleries:
• Location: Ocean Avenue between San Carlos and Mission Carmel-by-the-Sea, California View Map
• Phone: (831) 626-0600
• Private Viewings By Appointment - Call 831-233-825
• Website: http://www.mountainsonggalleries.com
• Hours of Operation Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10 – 6 and Sunday 12-6 (Closed Tuesday and Wednesday)

Please contact Lucinda Mountainsong at 831-626-0600 or Lucinda@mountainsonggalleries.com for additional details

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Mountainsong Galleries
PO Box 3396
Ocean Avenue 3 SE Of San Carlos
Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921-3396
(831) 747-7455
pr@straightlinepr.com
http://www.mountainsonggalleries.com

Castroville Tire to Hold Informative Seminar about Tire Selection and Care on Tuesday, August 19th

Celebrating its 12th anniversary, Castroville Tire will be holding a free seminar, “Little Things That Make a Big Difference: How to Buy and Maintain Your Tires”

Castroville, CA, July 21, 2014 - This is worth the drive...and the time! Celebrating its 12th anniversary, Castroville Tire will be holding a free seminar, “Little Things That Make a Big Difference: How to Buy and Maintain Your Tires” on Tuesday, August 19th from 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. at Castroville Tire, 11500 Merritt Boulevard, Castroville, CA 95012. Please RSVP to (831) 633-6000.

In this valuable seminar, Castroville Tire owner, Cesar Padilla, will discuss:

- How to select the right tire for your vehicle
- How to maximize the longevity of the tire
- How to correctly inspect your tires
- How to evaluate the wear on your tires
- When to rotate and align your tires
- How do I compare price vs. value when purchasing tires
- What are the new trends in tires

Castroville Tire is owned by Cesar Padilla, a Castroville native and graduate of North Monterey County High School. His father, who is retired, was the former owner of Campos Body Shop in Castroville. Growing up around his father’s business, Cesar had an early exposure and developed a deep interest in cars.

A year after graduating from high school, Cesar bought Castroville Tire in 2002 and doubled the size of the shop. Over the past dozen years, he has sold over 30,000 tires and ensures that Castroville Tire offers very, very competitive prices.

Unlike many other tire retailers, Castroville Tire will take appointments, as well as drop-ins on a first come, first served basis. The professional team at Castroville Tire is widely respected for their quick, efficient tire installation, honesty, and extensive expertise in the tire field.

Castroville Tire carries all major tire brands, from economical to high end tires and maintains an inventory of over a thousand tires, including a large selection of mud/all terrain tires. Tires can be specially ordered overnight or sometimes are even delivered on the same day. Castroville Tire is proud to be an authorized Parelli Dealer, one of the top tire manufacturers in the world. Castroville Tire also sells a wide array of rims, does 4-wheel alignment, wheel balancing, tire repair and rotation. They offer financing through GE Capital as well.

With a bilingual team that is dedicated to providing the highest level of quality customer service, Castroville Tire services many large agricultural firms, including truck fleets and other vehicles from Ocean Mist, Ausonio, Sea Mist, Cypress Berry Farms, Valley Pride, A & S Metals, Seven Up, Boutonnet Farms, Scattini and Sons, and many more.

According to Cesar Padilla, “With your family’s safety riding on your tires, it is important to us to offer the best people, products, installation and customer service. Having the right tires for your vehicle saves you a lot of fuel, stops the car more quickly and safely, reduces road noise, and provides a much more comfortable ride!”

Castroville Tire is conveniently open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. and Saturday from 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. For more information, call (831) 633-6000.

Contact:
Wendy Brickman
Brickman Marketing
395 Del Monte Center #250
Monterey, CA 93940
831-633-4444
http://www.BrickmanMarketing.com

Kaycie along with MADDOX Presents invite you to Monterey's Premier Singles Mixer, “1 + 1” on Wednesday, August 6th

Attention singles in Monterey County! It’s time to meet your match and make some new friends.

Monterey, CA, July 21, 2014 - Attention singles in Monterey County! It’s time to meet your match and make some new friends. “Kaycie along with MADDOX Presents invite you Monterey's Premier Singles Mixer, “1 + 1” on Wednesday, August 6th from 7:00 p.m. – Midnight, at Cibo Ristorante Italiano, 301 Alvarado Street in Downtown Monterey (831) 649-8151. Italian aphrodisiac-inspired complimentary appetizers will be served from 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. and Andrea’s Fault Trio will perform live jazz and R&B from 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. No cover charge. 21 and older. Participating guests will be given special 1+1 colorful beads.

As a fun ice breaker activity, men will only be able to buy blue drink tickets for 1+1 signature cocktails, including Love Potion 831 and Liquid Courage, among others and they will have to approach a woman of their choice to buy their drinks with blue tickets. And correspondingly, women will only able to buy red drink tickets and then they can approach a man of their choice to use the red tickets to buy 1+1 signature cocktails. Should you find your match and choose to have dinner that evening at Cibo, start your wonderful journey together with a complimentary glass of Prosecco.

Andrea's Fault Trio was formed in 1995 and they enjoy playing a wide variety of styles and are equally at home playing jazz standards to pop and rock. Their extensive repertoire traverses a wide variety of styles including jazz standards, blues, and R&B favorites from the 50’s and 60’s.

So come to Cibo to mingle with some singles. To RSVP, please go to www.cibo.com. For more information, call (831) 649-8151.

About Cibo:
Cibo Ristorante Italiano offers Italian cuisine, gourmet pizzas, cocktails, fine wines, cordials, and more, including gluten-free pizzas and pastas. Cibo (pronounced chee-bo) means food in Italian, but it’s more of a feast for the senses. This beautiful, spacious and comfortable restaurant features an intimate yet vibrant atmosphere which is accentuated with expressive art in the form of photography, paintings, sculpture, hand-blown glass and live jazz. Fusing the best of old and new world Italian cuisine, Cibo offers an eclectic menu ranging from gourmet pizzas to multi-course dinners. Families are welcome and there is a special children’s menu. Cibo has been a favorite of locals and visitors alike since 1990.

Cibo is open every evening with dinner served from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. The Cibo Bar is open from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. and is a popular “pre-event” and “after-party” destination. The bar features a $3 Happy Hour with special appetizers daily from 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. They offer an extensive high quality local and international wine and beer list, cordials, microbrews, rare and small batch Bourbons, Scotches, Ports, Grappa and liqueurs, as well as espresso, coffee drinks and a full menu of cocktails.

Cibo also presents live music 6 nights a week. On Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, the cool sound of Jazz accompanies dinner from 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. The restaurant features a lively and fun atmosphere with Reggae, R&B, Rock or Salsa dance music on Friday and Saturday nights from 10:00 p.m. – 1:30 a.m. with no cover charge. They also hold a special "Happy Hour Jazz Jam" from 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. every first and third Sunday of the month which includes Happy Hour food and drink specials.

With 150 seats, including intimate booths for dining , and room for over 50 people in the attractive bar area, Cibo also accommodates large groups for business functions, wedding rehearsals and receptions, special group dining events, and customized private parties.

Cibo Ristorante Italiano is the winner of numerous awards including California Writers Association Recommended Dining, Best Place to Meet Singles in Their 30's and 40's, Gold Key Award for Interior Design, Best Place to Enjoy a Martini, Best Place for Live Jazz, Best Italian Restaurant, Best Place to Dance, Best Martini and one of the Top 10 Happy Hours in Monterey.

For more information, go to www.cibo.com or call (831) 649-8151.

Contact:
Wendy Brickman
Brickman Marketing
395 Del Monte Center #250
Monterey, CA 93940
831-633-4444
http://www.BrickmanMarketing.com

Alstom Donates Generator to Ecotech Institute for Student Training

This donation gives Ecotech Institute students practical job training before their careers begin

Denver, CO, July 19, 2014 – Ecotech Institute, the only college entirely focused on renewable energy and sustainability training, now has a generator capable of powering 15,000 average America homes. The generator, which is one of the most expensive components in a wind turbine, is a donation from Alstom, the world’s leading energy solutions and transport company. Matt Pevarnik, an account executive for Alstom who serves on Ecotech Institute’s advisory board, spearheaded the donation.

“What’s incredible about this donation is now our students will have hands-on training with the same equipment they’ll encounter in their careers when they graduate from Ecotech Institute,” said Shawn Lamb, Ecotech Institute’s Wind Energy Technology Program Director. “This equipment combined with our 20-ton gearbox, which Winergy donated last year, gives our students training very few people will have before entering their profession.”

Students in Ecotech’s Wind Energy and Power Utility degree programs will use the generator, along with the gearbox, for mechanical training and to practice inspections and tests that are part of a wind turbine’s preventative maintenance program. Students will also have the chance to work on more complicated repairs in the course of their on-the-job training.

“Alstom is proud to see that our 1.7MW generator will help benefit the Ecotech Institute’s wind energy technology program,” said Albert Fisas-Camanes, R&D Director for Alstom Wind North America. “We appreciate the value of hands-on education and believe this generator will serve as a valuable learning tool to students studying for a career in the wind energy field.”

A ribbon cutting ceremony for the generator will take place at Ecotech Institute on Thursday, July 24 at 1 p.m. Ecotech Institute is located at 1400 S Abilene St, Aurora, Colo.

Ecotech Institute currently offers eight associate’s degree programs:

* Facility Management Technology
* Residential Energy Management
* Solar Energy Technology
* Wind Energy Technology
* Renewable Energy Technology
* Electrical Engineering Technology
* Power Utility Technician
* Business Administration – Sustainability.

For more information on Ecotech Institute, visit www.ecotechinstitute.com or like Ecotech Institute on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/EcotechInstitute.

About Ecotech Institute
Ecotech Institute is the first and only college entirely focused on preparing America’s workforce for careers in renewable energy and sustainability and is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools. Launched in April 2010 in Denver, Colorado, it offers eight highly practical renewable energy degree programs that provide graduates with skills valued by today’s alternative renewable energy employers. Classes start once per quarter and applications are always accepted. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify. Ecotech Institute is a division of Education Corporation of America. For more information about Ecotech Institute, visit ecotechinstitute.com or call 877-326-5576.

Contact:
Jenny Foust
Communications Strategy Group
East 2nd Avenue
Denver, CO 80206
303-433-7020
http://www.csg-pr.com

MAX Agency Toronto Summer 2014

MAX Agency Toronto Summer 2014 is here and it is a very busy time for MAX Agency!

Toronto, ON, July 17, 2014 - MAX Agency Toronto Summer 2014 is here and it is a very busy time for MAX Agency! MAX Toronto Modeling is entering the season with a very strong Toronto Model and Actor roster trained and ready to audition for major productions. I asked Max’s Assistant Booker about what projects we can expect to see MAX clients and she had this to say,

“Well, most productions have to remain confidential during the auditioning and casting process or up until their release but MAX Toronto talent has been recently hired for music videos for major recording artists, commercials for major brands, print campaigns for major clothing companies, a television pilot and you may even see a couple of our clients take the lead in two major motion pictures. Fingers crossed! We really want to get these two parts!”

Wishing MAX the best of luck and continued success this summer in attaining major roles for its clients we enquired as to the best way to discover more about MAX agency, its clients and projects,

“We have a really beautiful website featuring Toronto models and actors on the homepage accompanied by testimonials and congratulatory messages about recent projects attained by our talent. Many of our talent are featured on our growing roster and their portfolios can be viewed online; we feature men, women, kids, their pictures are really beautiful and some talent have been offered parts simply by having their portfolio online. Our blog is also very informative and includes audition, call back, hold, booking information and every announcement is accompanied by a client photo so the world can see who has had a personal success in the business.”

MAX Agency’s Bookers are currently looking for new Talent! If you are interested we highly recommend visiting our Application page and filling out an application. Wishing MAX continued success in the industry we’re looking forward to the Fall press release and finding out more about MAX!

Contact:
Natalya O
MAX Agency
2063 Yonge St. Suite 202
Toronto, Ontario M4S-2A2
416-482-5392
info@maxagency.com
http://www.maxagency.com

Chilean Army & Air Force Mutual Aid Association Controls Life Cycle with AuraPortal

In the first stage of implementation, the Chilean Army & Air Force Mutual Aid Association has developed its website entirely with the Content Management module of the AuraPortal BPM Software.

Woburn, MA, July 17 2014 – AURA (www.auraportal.com), a global provider of Business Process Management (BPM) software, has announced that the Chilean Army & Air Force Mutual Aid Association has commenced implementation of the AuraPortal platform which, thanks to its holistic configuration, includes all the necessary tools to manage the processes of any organization.

AuraPortal has been distinguished with great advantage over its competitors by Ovum in its Decision Matrix report and by other renowned analyst firms.

The implementation is being conducted by CVTeam, a Chilean consulting firm with extensive experience in the Bank and Insurance industry, and AuraPortal partner in the area.

After defining the scope of the project, CVTeam based the AuraPortal BPM implementation strategy on the creation and implementation of elements that will undergo continuous improvement, thus accelerating change.

In this context, they began with the development of the corporate website which has been developed entirely with the AuraPortal Content Management module, optimizing the different stages of the content life cycle:
- Creation and/or Capture
- Storage
- Security
- Flow and Access
- Publication
- Version Control
- Recovery
- Distribution
- Preservation
- Expiry
- Destruction of Contents

In AuraPortal these actions are not dealt with independently; AuraPortal transforms them into actions flowing through the processes so that any queries, purchases, claims, requests, etc. that are generated over the corporate website, will automatically trigger the corresponding Resolution Processes, ensuring management optimization.

The implementation of the following areas is planned for the next stages of the project:
- Operational Risk Process
- Complaints and Claims Process
- Intranet
- Document Management

ABOUT THE CHILEAN ARMY & AIR FORCE MUTUAL AID ASSOCIATION
The Army and Air Force Mutual Aid Association started its activities under the protection of the legal personality of the Military Club of Chile, on June 12, 1917.

It is a private nonprofit corporation, aimed at conducting insurance and reinsurance operations and issuing compulsory life insurance and other similar policies to army and air force members. It pursues a policy of mutual aid, of well-being and of social welfare for policyholders by offering additional benefits to the coverage provided in the policies.

About AURA (http://www.auraportal.com)
AURA is a global BPM (Business Process Management) software provider delivering a solution that creates, without the need of IT programming, Business Process Workflow Execution Models. AuraPortal is 100% Web-based, and is complementary to existing ERP and CRM systems.

AURA has a presence in 40 countries with more than 300 customers including, among others: Walmart, Toyota, General Motors, Pemex (Petroleos Mexicanos), Carrefour, ArcelorMittal, PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, Danone, INCAE, Kimberly-Clark, Yamaha, Royal KPN, Bristol-Myers Squibb, etc., as well as many Government Agencies and Departments in several countries. All of these customers benefit from maintenance contracts.

It is headquartered in Europe and has an executive branch in North America (Florida). It also has offices in several countries and a vast network of partners who locally attend customers throughout the world.

Contact:
Cristina Siscar
Auraportal
400 Trade Center
Woburn, MA 01801-7472
978-808-6340
pr@straightlinepr.com
http://www.auraportal.com

Mountainsong Galleries in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, is committed to representing more OPA and AIS credentialed Master Artists than any gallery in the world

One of the artists represented by Mountainsong Galleries is Kevin Macpherson To Hold First Ever Plein Air Workshop in Vancouver

Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA, July 17, 2014 - One of the artists represented by Mountainsong Galleries is Kevin Macpherson. Mountainsong Galleries announced today they will be the only gallery in the world to carry Kevin Macpherson’s Reflections on a Pond Series. Mountainsong Galleries has announced that the entire series - all 368 paintings – is now available for acquisition for $1.75 million.

In August 1996, Kevin Macpherson conceived of a series of paintings. The term “series” is perhaps too modest a description for what came to be called the Pond Project. This is not simply a group of works on a theme, nor a one year exploration of a single subject. Rather Reflections on a Pond was conceived as a physical challenge and psychological adventure in which a view out to a nearby pond would be documented on canvas at different times of the day and night, in all seasons. It took five years to complete. Kevin describes the “Reflections on a Pond” series.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=O1DnVSLIAJw#t=0

Macpherson has just announced  he will hold  a special Plein Air Painting Workshop  called “Capturing Color and Light en Plein Air” on Hornby Island in Vancouver.

The Details:

* September 22-25, 2014

* Plein Air Painting Workshop

* Join celebrated Plein Air artist, Kevin Macpherson. Kevin is author of three bestselling plein air books, Fill Your Oil Paintings with Light and Color, Painting the Landscape Inside and Out, Reflections on a Pond: A Visual Journal, and the soon to be released new book, Light, Atmosphere and Color. Beginners to advance artists will benefit personally from Kevin’s 35 years of experience painting on location, teaching, and concise writing methods.

* The workshop includes four days painting the beautiful, pristine coastal landscapes, personal attention, and group critiques. Challenging lessons, lectures and instructor/demonstrations will fill the days with the “art spirit”. Simplify the chaos of nature with a firm understanding of light and shade. Master color relationships and composition made easy. Forget the formulas and look to nature for the truthful answers. Learn to react intuitively painting en plein air for successful passionate painting. Create a painting that goes beyond merely a picture one that evokes the senses. Engage in artistic challenges and take risks under the tutelage of a passionate well-known instructor. All levels of experience are welcome and the fundamentals apply to all mediums. Return home with a solid grasp of landscape fundamentals and the confidence to release your passion and let your true voice rule. Bring a limited palette, lots of small canvases and a work ethic, but most of all don’t leave home without your sense of humor. Kevin will keep you laughing all the while you learn.

* This is the first time Kevin is teaching in British Columbia. Take advantage of this opportunity!

CLASS INCLUDES:
* Instructor demonstrations, painting en plein air and picnic lunches. Instructor and students dine together to make the most out of this great island experience. The local hospitality will surely make this a memorable workshop.

* Special access to a private golf course along the waters edge and time to relax on the beach, clothing optional. There is something special about an island. Leave your cares on the mainland and just concentrate on the “art spirit”.

REGISTRATION:

* Early registration is encouraged. Registration is first come, first served. Kevin’s classes fill quickly.

COST:

* $875 USD. Register online: http://kevinMacpherson.com/workshops

* Reserve your space with a nonrefundable deposit of $300 (Paypal available). Class size limited to 20. The balance of the class fee is due August 29.

* The tuition does not include transportation, food or lodging. Only credit card and Paypal can be accepted.

* Please call (575) 758-7105 (New Mexico) with questions.

CANCELLATION POLICY:

* Your tuition will be fully refunded if the class must be cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances.

Comment from Students:

* Kevin exceeding my hopes. Obviously a master at painting, but equally so as a teacher - that magic combination is few and far between… and let’s not forget to add Stand Up Comedian to the list - bet there is never a dull moment between the 2 of you. I imagine you both are ready for a breather, hope you get one. -- SB

* Kevin is a fantastic teacher and creates great examples and demonstrations for his students to understand the information he is presenting while making the experience a lot of fun. Wanda and Kevin are a fantastic team and thank you for organizing the workshop and group so well. – RW

* Kevin, you're the best teacher ever and so generous to share your love and knowledge of painting with us. I learned more in 5 days than I have in the last 5 years and I'm encouraged that I can improve with the tools and exercises you gave us. -PK

See more about Kevin’s work and biographical information: http://kevinMacpherson.com

Details on where to purchase Kevin Macpherson works at Mountainsong Galleries:

Location: Ocean between San Carlos and Mission Carmel-by-the-Sea, California • View Map

* Phone: (831) 626-0600
* Private Viewings By Appointment - Call 831-233-8255
* Website: http://www.mountainsonggalleries.com/
* Kevin’s works can also be found on http://www.amazon.com/s?rh=n%3A6685269011%2Cp_6%3AAZS7VH5YJPND5

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Mountainsong Galleries
PO Box 3396
Ocean Avenue 3 SE Of San Carlos
Carmel-By-The-Sea, CA 93921-3396
(831) 747-7455
pr@straightlinepr.com
http://www.mountainsonggalleries.com/

Grand Opening Juicer Heroes -Frisco, Texas

San Antonio Based Juicer Heroes is taking their "Mission of Nutrition" to the DFW Metroplex. Featuring Fresh, Raw, Cold Pressed Juices. Grand Opening Celebration Saturday July 19, 10-2. Take a tour, try a sample, meet a SuperHero!

San Antonio, Texas, July 17, 2014 - Juicer Heroes founded by Jason & Joshua Taylor in San Antonio, June of 2012 is opening their first location in the DFW market. Juicer Heroes commitment, in addition to offering the Best-Fresh, local/organic juice available, is to educate their customers to living a healthy lifestyle.

Juicer Heroes provides a menu of the freshest fruit and vegetable juices with varieties for every taste and pricing to fit every budget. A fun, energetic, informational atmosphere that includes unique offering such as Fresh, Cold Pressed Juice, Healthy Food Options, Healthy Snacks and Treats by Powerhouse Bakery, Organic soaps & scrubs from Hemp 360 and other Earth Friendly offerings. They are committed to educating their customers. Come visit with one of their knowledgeable Heroes and determine the best program for a healthier you. They are committed to minimizing their impact on the environment, they recycle their Glass bottles and donate their pulp as food for free range chickens and grass fed beef ranchers.

They are the Superheroes of Juicing! Their commitment to educating people young and old has them offer Superhero Saturday. One Saturday per month, every child that comes dressed in a Superhero Costume will get a free small Juice of the Day.

Bryan & Kristi Wright with partner Mike & Yvonne Escobedo are excited to bring Juicer Heroes to Frisco. Juicer Heroes Frisco had their Soft Opening mid June and will have their Grand Opening celebration July 19th from 10 am -2 pm. They will feature their Local/Organic Fresh juice samples, healthy food options by ICON Foods, Healthy snack and baked treats. Live Music, appearances by Bob Lilly, and other local Celebrities & Dignitaries.

Contact:
Drew Taylor
Juicer Heroes
15337 San Pedro
San Antonio, Texas 78232
210 233 9958
juicerheroes@gmail.com
http://www.juicerheroes.com

eBook on Continuous Delivery for Managers Nets 3,000 Downloads

High interest shows CD gaining widespread attention within executive ranks

Boston, MA, July 15, 2014 – A new XebiaLabs eBook on how to develop and release enterprise software within days instead of months has achieved 3,000 downloads in 60 days, making it one of the most popular eBooks for managers on the topic of Continuous Delivery. The book, which is aimed at managers looking for a short, clear introduction to the topic, champions the concept of Continuous Delivery in enabling organizations to build automated software delivery platforms for releasing high-quality applications into the hands of users and customers faster.

“The IT Manager’s Guide to Continuous Delivery: Delivering Software in Days, Instead of Months,” has been well received by CIOs, development managers and professionals in quality assurance, testing and operations (DevOps) who view the fast conversion of good ideas into marketable software as a critical business imperative that drives success.

Continuous Delivery is a set of processes and practices that radically removes waste from the software production process and creates an effective feedback loop with end users. The end result is rapid time-to-market of enterprise applications and mobile apps.

“IT Managers Guide to Continuous Delivery” presents measurable business benefits and is written for non-technical readers, starting with concrete advice on how to get started.

“The overwhelming interest for this book demonstrates that Continuous Delivery is gaining momentum at the executive level,” says co-author Andrew Phillips. “Releasing software quickly with high quality is the first key step…. The subsequent step is to rapidly collect feedback from users to guide the next set of ideas for further improvements. Adopting Continuous Delivery is critical because more and more cases prove that it truly works.”

For a free downloadable copy, please visit http://go.xebialabs.com/IT-Managers-Guide-to-CD.html

About XebiaLabs
With customers such as General Electric, Expedia, Xerox, KLM, and Société Générale, XebiaLabs is the fastest-growing, leading global provider of automation software for DevOps and Continuous Delivery helping companies to accelerate the delivery of new software. XebiaLabs’ products provide the automation, efficiency and insight organizations need to meet the demand for faster software deployment cycles. Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Boston, XebiaLabs has a worldwide network of sales offices and partners. For more information, please visit www.xebialabs.com.

Contact:
Victor Cruz
Principal
MediaPR.net
PO Box 961
Essex, MA 01929
978-768-6888
vcruz@mediapr.net
http://www.mediapr.net

QASymphony Names David Keil as CEO

QASymphony, a leading provider of scalable QA software testing tools for Agile developers, today announced the appointment of David Keil as the company’s new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.

Atlanta, GA, July 15, 2014 — QASymphony (www.qasymphony.com), a leading provider of scalable QA software testing tools for Agile developers, today announced the appointment of David Keil as the company’s new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.

“We’re delighted to have David Keil take over as CEO of QASymphony,” said QASymphony co-founder Vu Lam. “David is a seasoned veteran with deep executive leadership experience. We are confident David will apply his strategic vision to scale the company up to the next level of growth and customer acquisition.”

“QASymphony has invested heavily over the past several years to create a highly differentiated solution. I am excited to elevate our sales, marketing and partner efforts and significantly expand our reach,” said Keil. “Agile development is spreading rapidly and dramatically impacting how software is tested and measured for quality. QASymphony is uniquely positioned to bring real-time testing intelligence and data to software developers and testers, regardless of their legacy testing platform.”

David Keil was previously CEO of Digistrive, Inc. of Atlanta, a provider of e-commerce solutions to large membership based organizations (recently acquired by a large private company). Prior to that, Keil was CEO of Integrated Broadband Services, a software and services company. During his tenure at IBBS, the company doubled in size, completed two strategic acquisitions, and established a market leadership position in the “Tier Two” broadband space. Before joining IBBS, he served as Chief Strategy Officer and later as Senior President and General Manager at ChoicePoint, a NYSE global information services provider (acquired by Lexis Nexis in 2008).

Keil has also held senior executive roles at Novient, and Robinson Humphrey (now part of SunTrust). He holds an MBA from The Wharton School and a BS in Applied Mathematics and Economics from Brown University.

Keil succeeds Vu Lam who has been serving a dual role as both CEO and head of Product Strategy. Lam, a co-founder of QASymphony and KMS Consulting will continue in his role as Chief Product Officer.

Website: www.qasymphony.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/qasymphony
Twitter: www.twitter.com/qasymphony

About QASymphony
QASymphony’s test management and agile testing solutions help teams create better software. With QASymphony’s tools businesses can accelerate testing to keep up with the pace of today’s development to ensure that productivity gains from Agile development are matched with the oversight, visibility and control required to build quality software. Empowering quality software at companies such as Silverpop, BetterCloud, and Zappos, QASymphony enables teams to communicate and collaborate faster, bringing visibility and control back to the development and testing lifecycle. The company is headquartered in Atlanta, GA.

Contact:
Victor Cruz
Principal
MediaPR
28 Forrester St
Salem, MA 01970
vcruz@mediapr.net
http://www.mediapr.net

47th Annual Monterey Scottish Games & Celtic Festival coming soon on August 2nd and 3rd, 2014

Put on your kilt and bring your family and friends to the 47th Annual Monterey Scottish Games & Celtic Festival.

Monterey, CA, July 15, 2014 - Put on your kilt and bring your family and friends to the 47th Annual Monterey Scottish Games & Celtic Festival.

Hundreds of kilted bagpipers and dancers will be back in Monterey, California entertaining Festival-goers who will enjoy experiencing many aspects of the fascinating Celtic culture. The award-winning Scottish Society of the Monterey Peninsula will hold its 47th Annual Monterey Scottish Games & Celtic Festival (www.montereyscotgames.com) on Saturday and Sunday, August 2nd and 3rd, 2014, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The festival will take place at the beautiful and spacious Monterey County Fair & Event Center located at 2004 Fairground Road, Monterey, CA, 93940. (831) 682-2022.

This very popular Celtic celebration brings the music, dance, food and athletic events of Scotland and Ireland to Monterey County.  Featuring fun activities for the whole family, the Monterey Scottish Games & Celtic Festival offers a variety of live Celtic entertainment with thrilling massed pipe bands on parade, including eight award-winning California-based pipe bands, plus talented Highland and Irish dancers.

The outstanding array of special entertainment this year will feature many crowd-pleasing favorites, including Irish singer and humorist, Seamus Kennedy, (www.seamuskennedy.com), Celtic rock band Stand Easy with John Mclean Allan (www.standeasyband.com), singer/songwriter Peter Daldry Trio (www.peterdaldry.com) and more. Returning this year is Christopher Yates (http://www.rustyhappenings.com/roving.htm) as McCloud the Scotsman, aka Kilts on Stilts, the ten foot tall roving Scotsman, entertaining for all ages. On Sunday, the Festival will also feature “Salute to the Irish” that will include special Irish entertainment.

The Monterey Scottish Games & Celtic Festival also includes exciting Scottish heavy athletic competition events seen in award-winning films such as Braveheart, Rob Roy and Brave, including the famous caber toss, hammer and stone throw, weight for distance and height, and the sheaf toss.

Other crowd-pleasing activities include the powerful massed pipe bands, thrilling Drum Major competition, Solo and Pipe Band competitions, Highland Dancing, Irish Step dancing, and sheepdog herding. Step back in time with costumed historical re-enactment Groups depicting life in 16th Century Scotland with Clan Galbraith, St. Andrew’s Society including meet and greets and tea with Mary Queen of Scots, and the SCA (Society for Creative Anachronism).

Festival attendees will also enjoy researching their own clans at the clan and Celtic association tents as they stroll through the Avenue of Clans.

There are lots of fun interactive children’s games activities planned for the wee ones at the Children's Glen, too. Little ones can participate in scaled down athletic events (mini-Caber toss, pillow over the bar, mini braemar stone putt), plus enjoy fun Celtic craft projects and the popular Celtic Quest.

Many vendors at the Monterey Scottish Games & Celtic Festival will offer tasty British and Scottish food and drink, and unique Scottish and Irish crafts, jewelry, clothing, and music that will be enjoyed by all. There’s always wonderful shopping with authentic products imported from Scotland, Ireland and England and hand-made items with Celtic themes. This year’s event features many returning and new vendors with an array of popular Celtic items, including Heirloom Blessings (Scottish collectibles, sweaters and children’s clothing),  Celtic Shoppe (Scottish and Irish crafts, scarves, kilt hose), A & A Company (Scottish Celtic silver jewelry), Heather Glen Designs (Scottish and Celtic jewelry designs), Nagle Forge (hand-forged jewelry in silver, bronze and gold), Anthony Rees Designs (silver, brass and copper wire jewelry), C H Hutchinson (swords, armour and kilts), Phoenix and Crow (Celtic totebags and tapestries), Celtic Jackalope (Clan Crests Plaques, T-shirts), Rowan of the Woods (Celtic novels, handmade wooden toys), Why Knot Fashions (embossed T-shirts, hats, sweatshirts--adults and children), Family History of Surnames (histories of last names, crests), Browns English Toffee (handmade toffees), MacGregor Imports (British chocolates, shortbread, UK fine foods, stuffed animals, and chanters), and much more.

Enjoy the delicious tastes of Scotland and England from Ministry of Food (British bangers, Celtic rolls, and shepherds pies), Heritage Meat Pies-Sunblest Foods (assorted traditional Scottish meat pies, steak and mushroom pies, steak and veggie pies, sausage rolls, Shepherd's pies, chicken pie, and new this year lamb curry pie inspired by India/Pakistan - a former colony of Great Britain, haggis, scones with strawberries), Taste of Britain (fish and chips, corned beef and cabbage and kids specials of chicken tenders and corn dogs), plus Carmel Coffee Roasters (coffees, teas, and smoothies).

Don’t miss the popular whisky tasting seminar that celebrates one of Scotland’s greatest exports—fine, single malt Scotch whisky and learn more about the history, distillation process and various tasting characteristics of fine whiskies. Guinness beer and other beverages are abundant as well.

Want to learn more about Scottish drumming and try it yourself? New this year, multi-award-winning Scottish drummer, Davey MacAdams, will provide a Drum Clinic on Sunday.

The fun continues on Saturday night at 6:00 p.m. at the Ceilidh (Scottish party) at The Mucky Duck, 479 Alvarado, in downtown Monterey featuring food, drink and more Celtic entertainment.

Advance discount presale tickets are now available at www.montereyscotgames.com and tickets will be available at the gate both days of the Festival:

Adult One-Day - Presale [$15.00]  - At Gate [$20.00]

Senior (65+) One-Day - Presale [$12.00] - At Gate [$15.00]

Military One-Day - Presale [$12.00] - At Gate [$15.00]

Child (9-15) One Day - Presale [$12.00] - At Gate [$15.00]

Adult Two-Day - Presale [$20.00] - At Gate [$30.00]

Senior (65+) Two-Day - Presale [$15.00] - At Gate [$20.00]

Military Two-Day - Presale [$15.00] - At Gate [$20.00]

Child (9-15) Two-Day - Presale [$15.00] - At Gate [$20.00]

Children 8 & under free

Each year, the proceeds from the Monterey Scottish Games & Celtic Festival benefit several local non-profit organizations in Monterey County.

For more information, check out the website montereyscotgames.com or call (831) 682-2022.

For sponsorship opportunities, interviews and high resolution photos, please call Wendy Brickman, Brickman Marketing, at 831-633-4444 or email Brickman@BrickmanMarketing.com.

Contact:

Wendy Brickman

Brickman Marketing

395 Del Monte Center #250

Monterey, CA 93940

831-633-4444

Brickman@BrickmanMarketing.com

http://www.BrickmanMarketing.com