“Pasta, Pizza and Professionals Lecture, Dinner & Networking Series” to Launch at Cibo Restaurant on Monday, January 11, 2016

Save the date! Don’t miss the first ever “Pasta, Pizza and Professionals Lecture, Dinner & Networking Series” on Monday, January 11, 2016 at Cibo Ristorante Italiano, located at 301 Alvarado in Downtown Monterey.

Monterey, CA, January 01, 2016 - Save the date! Don’t miss the first ever “Pasta, Pizza and Professionals Lecture, Dinner & Networking Series” on Monday, January 11, 2016 at Cibo Ristorante Italiano, located at 301 Alvarado in Downtown Monterey. Parking is available in the adjacent garage.The first event will feature multi-award-winning video producer, Jules Hart, with a presentation about "Insider Tips to Video Production for Business, Education and Fun!"

These days, video is so accessible and important in our lives. Learning the basic approach to planning and implementing your video project can make it easier and more effective when hiring a professional or producing it yourself. A well-produced video can better communicate your business goals for audience presentations, on television or on the web. Jules will also provide some tips for creating a great family or event video.

The lecture will take place from 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. and the cost is $10 at the door (fee goes to the speaker). After the lecture, there will be a No Host Dinner and Informal Conversation with the Filmmaker, Jules Hart for those who are interested.

Cibo is offering attendees a special 3-course “Pasta, Pizza and Professionals” Dinner price of $24.95 (including a choice of Local Field Greens or Tuscan Bean Soup, a choice of Pizza Margherita, Rigatoni Di Giovanni Pasta, Salmon or Chicken) and dessert will feature Tiramisu. Event attendees can also order anything off of the menu described on www.cibo.com. Cibo has a $3 Happy Hour which will be available to attendees of this event in the seminar area. RSVPs are appreciated by Friday, January 8th for the seminar and/or dinner. Please contact Wendy Brickman at (831) 594-1500 or email brickman@brickmanmarketing.com.

According to Wendy Brickman, owner of Brickman Marketing and founder of Pasta, Pizza and Professionals, “I have had the pleasure of coordinating the one-hour Monterey Peninsula Chamber of Commerce Brown Bag Seminars for over 25 years and I love doing so! It’s a great way to learn relevant information for our businesses and network with the community. However, I was also looking for a more relaxed venue for learning that features a great ambiance, food and service so I “cooked” up this concept. I know that Cibo Ristorante Italiano in Downtown Monterey is just the perfect place! Scheduling these learning events with community experts in the evening around dinner will also allow us to better “digest” what we learn, mix and mingle, and ask questions one-on-one of the expert speaker.”

About Jules Hart
Award-winning film producer and director Jules Hart is the founder of Eye Goddess Films.Her work has aired on PBS and screened at a number of festival venues including Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival; Carmel Art & Film Festival; the Ojai Film Festival; and the Athena Film Festival at Barnard College in New York City. Hart picked up Best Female Filmmaker at the Action On Film Festival in Pasadena, CA, and an Emerging Artist Award at the Beloit International Film Festival in 2011.

Through her work, Hart has explored such diverse topics as storefront churches, Latina healers, drumming as a spiritual practice, and art as a vehicle for healing.Her documentaries have won several awards including Best Documentary at the Santa Fe Independent Film Festival and Best Faith Based Film at the AOF International Film Festival. Other venues where her documentaries have screened are the United Nations Commission For the Status of Women in New York and at Michael Moore's State Theatre in Traverse City, Michigan.

Hart transitioned from a 20-year career in front of the camera as an international fashion model, to her present role behind the camera after creating a short film as a homework assignment for a Film and Folklore class at UCLA.It was at that point she realized her true calling.As a filmmaker, Hart taps into her own feminism and dedication to women’s rights to tell compelling stories about other women’s struggles, challenges and victories.

Another passion of Ms. Hart’s is working with local business owners, entrepreneurs, and artists to create effective marketing videos to help them reach a larger audience, whether for television or the web.

Jules Hart has lectured at Antioch University, Whittier College and UCLA, her alma mater, on topics such as Film and Folklore, Women in the Arts, and Women and Religion.

About Cibo Restaurant
Cibo Ristorante Italiano (www.cibo.com) offers Italian cuisine, gourmet pizzas, cocktails, fine wines, cordials, and more. 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 9:00 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. with no cover charge.There is also the popular "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. Cibo is now “wired” with free Internet service.

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.NEW! Outdoor heating seating along Alvarado Street is coming soon!

Cibo Restaurant is the winner of numerous awards including California Writers Association Recommended Dining, Monterey Herald Readers' Choice Local Favorite, 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.cibo.com

35th Steinbeck Festival May 6 – 8, 2016. Speakers, tours, authors, musicians & an Old Town Salinas Craft Beer Festival on Saturday

“From Salinas to Sea of Cortez: Steinbeck on Land and Sea”

Salinas, CA, December 31, 2015 – The 35th annual Steinbeck Festival takes place May 6 – 8, 2016 at the National Steinbeck Center in Salinas. This year’s festival features speakers, tours, musicians throughout the weekend, with a craft beer Festival on Saturday and an educators' panel on Sunday. The theme is "From Salinas to Sea of Cortez: Steinbeck on Land and Sea," honoring the 75th anniversary of Sea of Cortez, published in 1941.

Tickets will be on sale January 30th at www.Steinbeck.org, or by calling the National Steinbeck Center store at 831-775-4721. Click the Festival link on the homepage for more information.

Highlights for the 2015 festival include:

Speakers: Robert DeMott, "Steinbeck on Fishing"; William Souder on writing biographies; Sergio Chavez on braceros in the Tijuana/San Diego borderlands; John Gregg on restoring the purse seiner, "The Western Flyer"--and more!

Tours: The Red Pony Ranch, Salinas Valley fields, Wine tour along River Road, Monterey Bay, and Ed Ricketts's Lab on Cannery Row.

Events: Craft beer festival on Saturday in Old Town Salinas and education workshops on Sunday--integrating local history into the curriculum, Steinbeck and gaming, and integrating literature and science.

Contact:

Marci Bracco Cain

Chatterbox PR

Salinas, CA 93901

(831) 747-7455

http://www.Steinbeck.org

Hyatt Carmel Highlands Celebrates 100 Years with a Centenial Facelift

Enhancements to include renovations to Pacific's Edge restaurant and hotel guestrooms

Carmel Highlands, CA, December 28, 2015 - The renowned Hyatt Carmel Highlands, which overlooks the Big Sur Coast and features 48 luxuriously appointed guestrooms, prepares for its centennial anniversary with one of the most exciting transformations in its history.

The hotel's award-winning restaurant, Pacific's Edge http://www.pacificsedge.com, along with the guestrooms, bar and lobby area will undergo a series of upscale enhancements inspired by the property's refined charm and classic seaside setting.

Beginning in the new year, renovations will feature upgrades to Pacific's Edge, including refreshed décor and a new 40-seat, 1,200-square-foot outdoor patio. The heated open-air space will allow patrons to enjoy al fresco dining and dramatic ocean vistas year round. Once the refurbishments are complete, Pacific's Edge will merge with the hotel's casual bistro, California Market, to become one restaurant. Chef Minton and executive sous chef Alvaro Dalmau are devising a new menu that will offer the most popular items from both restaurants. The 50-page wine list at Pacific's Edge will also be updated with more emphasis on the many excellent vintages from Monterey County. The new venue is scheduled to open during the second quarter of 2016.


"We are thrilled to offer our patrons these improvements," said Mel Bettcher, managing director of the Hyatt Carmel Highlands. "This luxurious refresh will offer some new design elements, while maintaining the unique and authentic feel that has made visiting this property such a memorable experience for so many during the last century."

In addition to the restaurant, guests will enjoy new furnishings, décor, color schemes, heating and air conditioning in the hotel's 48 rooms inclusive of its 10 suites. The guestrooms' refreshed look will draw upon the hotel's upscale coastal ambience. The existing bar, Sunset Lounge, will be reconfigured to showcase the views of the Pacific coastline. New furnishings and living room style components will be added to the hotel's lobby area, which will be outfitted to accommodate private parties of more than 100 guests.

HYATT CARMEL HIGHLANDS CELEBRATES 100 YEARS WITH A CENTENNIAL -

During the restaurant upgrades, the hotel's casual bistro California Market will offer a lively new menu along with brunch seven days per week. In addition, it will offer creative dinner selections from Pacific's Edge. Highlights of the new California Market menu include chicken sofrito empanadas, local daily catch ceviche, Baja fish tacos, ahi quinoa salad, confit chicken torta and grilled cheese sandwich with braised short ribs.

For updates and a sneak peek of the exciting new menu, visit the hotel website http://highlandsinn.hyatt.com/en/hotel/home.html, call (831) 620-1234, follow us on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hyattcarmelhighlands/ or sign up for the monthly e-newsletter on the website. Hyatt Carmel Highlands is located at 120 Highlands Drive, Carmel, California, USA, 93923.

About Hyatt Carmel Highlands
Perched on the hillside of the Carmel Highlands with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, Hyatt Carmel Highlands combines true Carmel luxury with an approachable and sophisticated spirit. A haven for artists and discerning travelers since its opening in 1917, Hyatt Carmel Highlands features 48 luxurious guestrooms, including 10 suites, 33 Ocean View rooms and 5 Garden View rooms. In addition, Hyatt Carmel Highlands offers spectacular dining at the award-winning Pacific's Edge restaurant and California Market, 4,800 square feet of meeting space, in-room spa services, heated outdoor swimming pool, three spa tubs and a StayFit fitness facility. Situated only four miles from downtown Carmel, Hyatt Carmel Highlands' idyllic setting and personalized service has attracted families, weddings, honeymooners and privileged travelers for nearly a century. Hyatt Carmel Highlands has been recognized among the world's finest hotels as part of Condé Nast Traveler's Gold List and Travel + Leisure's "T+L 500" World's Best Hotels.  http://www.hyattcarmelhighlands.com/.

About Hyatt
Hyatt hotels are smaller-sized properties conveniently located in diverse business and leisure areas. With hotels typically ranging from 150 to 350 rooms, Hyatt hotels offer guests the opportunity to experience our hospitality in a vibrant environment. Customers include individual business and leisure travelers, and Hyatt hotels can accommodate smaller scale business meetings and social gatherings.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Hyatt Carmel Highlands
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.hyattcarmelhighlands.com/

Hofsas House Launches Pin It To Win It Contest

Tell the Hofsas House where you’d love to visit and why and you could win a 2 night stay!

Salinas, CA, December 25, 2015 - So many of us add “travel more” to our list of yearly resolutions! Whether it is somewhere close by, a beautiful beach or international destination, tell the Hofsas House where you’d love to visit and why? Post pictures of your ideal destination on a Pinterest board and our favorite board with win a 2-night stay at the Hofsas House hotel!

To enter the contest simply:

Pin It To Win It!!

· Follow us on Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/hofsashouse/

· Create A Board Titled: Time to Travel!

· Add a minimum of 5 pictures of your favorite quotes with the hashtag #HofsasHouseGetaways

· Email a link your board to: marci@chatterboxpublicrelations.com

· One lucky winner will win a 2-night stay at our hotel!

· Enter to win between January 1st and January 30th. Winner announced on February 5th.

· Includes Hotel stay only- airfare, transportation, meals and other amenities not included

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.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.hofsashouse.com

Hyatt Regency Hotel and Spa Announces January Pinterest Contest

The Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa, located at 1 Old Golf Course Road in Monterey, announces their new Pinterest Contest!

Monterey, CA, December 24, 2015 – The Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa, located at 1 Old Golf Course Road in Monterey, announces their new Pinterest Contest!

Pin It To Win It! The beginning of the year is a great time to start planning the details of your wedding day and Pinterest is the perfect place to check out the latest trends from wedding activities to finding your something blue! The team at Hyatt Regency Monterey is here to make your dreams come true…pin your favorites for a chance to win! Happy Posting!

Simply:

· Follow us on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/montereyhyatt

· Create a board titled: Dream Wedding

· Pin your favorite wedding images from trends to beautiful photos (Minimum 5 pins)

· Use the hashtag #WeddingsInAHyattWorld on all the pins

· Email a link to your board to marci@chatterboxpublicrelations.com

· One lucky winner will receive a two-night stay at Hyatt Regency Monterey as well as a romantic dinner at #TusCA with wine pairings!

· Contest runs January 1st-January 30th. Winner announced February 5th.

About Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa on Del Monte Golf Course:
Nestled in 22 acres of soaring Monterey Pines, the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa on Del Monte Golf Course is a destination resort providing the discerning traveler the quintessential Monterey experience. Its location offers guests close proximity to downtown Monterey and Monterey Airport and easy access to some of the Peninsula’s most well-known attractions. With its warm, contemporary ambiance, elegant furnishings and convenient amenities, the hotel offers both leisure and business travelers a Northern California respite of unmatched serenity and comfort. Features include 550 guestrooms including 32 suites, and the President’s house, TusCA Ristorante, Knuckles Sports Bar, Fireplace Lounge, a 2,000 square foot fitness facility, tennis courts, pools and whirlpools, and 12,000 square foot full service spa. The hotel is located at 1 Old Golf Course Road in Monterey, California. For information call (831) 372-1234 or visit www.hyattregencymonterey.com.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.hyattregencymonterey.com

Hofsas House Hotel Offers Poolside Meeting Facility in Carmel-By-The-Sea

Family Celebrates Over 60 Years of European Hospitality

Carmel by the Sea, CA, December 22, 2015 - Meeting your needs, the Hofsas House in
Carmel-By-The-Sea, offers the perfect European retreat for family reunions, business team or leadership meetings, sewing or quilting conferences, and small wedding receptions. The hotel offers the only poolside meeting facility in Carmel-By-The-Sea.

The signature poolside meeting room has a fireplace, full kitchen and can accommodate a sit down dinner for 30, a stand up reception for up to 40 or a boardroom setting with classroom seating for up to 24. The meeting room is ideal for private personal dining parties. Guests can even bring their own chefs or work with the Hofsas House preferred vendors Wild Thyme Deli or Aqua Terra Culinary. The hotel can also arrange to have the hotel guests complimentary continental breakfast delivered to the meeting room for early morning meetings

From bridal or two bedroom suites to rooms with private lanais or sun decks overlooking the pines, the Hofsas House offers the perfect accommodation for any group large or small. A heated pool, dry saunas, decks with views and off-street parking are on offer as well. Hofsas House Owner and General Manager, Carrie Theis, personally helps you with information regarding the meeting area, including recommendations for local caterers. The dimensions of room are 19’ by 26’, not including the kitchen area.

Background on the Hotel:

In Carmel-by-the-Sea, the Theis family is celebrating 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.

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 including yogurt, 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.

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.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.hofsashouse.com

Holiday Contest At Hyatt Regency Monterey!

We all have wonderful memories from the holidays - from something funny to something heartwarming! Share one of your favorite holiday memories on our Facebook Page

Monterey, CA, December 11, 2015 - We all have wonderful memories from the holidays - from something funny to something heartwarming! Share one of your favorite holiday memories on our Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/hyattregencymonterey and our favorite post will win a one-night stay at Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa along with dinner at TusCA! Entries accepted December10th -December 20thth …winner announced on Christmas Day! What better holiday gift than to find out you won a free hotel stay?! #HappyHolidays #HyattHolidays

About Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel& Spa on Del Monte Golf Course

Nestled in 22 acres of soaring Monterey Pines, the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa on Del Monte Golf Course is a destination resort providing the discerning traveler the quintessential Monterey experience. Its location offers guests close proximity to downtown Monterey and Monterey Airport and easy access to some of the Peninsula’s most well known attractions. With its warm, contemporary ambiance, elegant furnishings and convenient amenities, the hotel offers both leisure and business travelers a Northern California respite of unmatched serenity and comfort. Features include 550 guestrooms including 32 suites, and the President’s house, TusCA Ristorante, Knuckles Sports Bar, Fireplace Lounge, a 2,000 square foot fitness facility, tennis courts, pools and whirlpools, and 12,000 square foot full service spa. The hotel is located at 1 Old Golf Course Road in Monterey, California. For information call (831) 372-1234 or visit http://www.hyattregencymonterey.com/.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.hyattregencymonterey.com/

Vendange Carmel Carmel-by-the-Sea’s Only Wine Themed Hotel Extends Two Promotions ILOVEWINE and WishfulWednesday

Vendange Carmel Inn and Suites has partnered with 15 Monterey County wineries to create a unique guest experience, celebrating the bounty of Monterey County’s vineyards.

Carmel, CA, December 09, 2015 -- Vendange Carmel Inn and Suites has partnered with 15 Monterey County wineries to create a unique guest experience, celebrating the bounty of Monterey County’s vineyards. Each winery sponsors one room or suite, providing its own creative touches. From the McIntyre Vineyards room with its impressive 100-year-old section of grapevine to J. Lohr’s wine barrel on the balcony, every winery’s room offers a signature luxury experience. The participating wineries are: Blair, Cima Collina, Dawn’s Dream, Galante, Holman Ranch, J. Lohr, Joullian, Manzoni, McIntyre, Otter Cove, Tudor, Twisted Roots and Ventana.

The rooms have sleek, modern bathrooms, with imported Spanish marble. Sleeping areas have memory foam-top beds, deluxe linens, and high-definition flat screen televisions. The separate Cottage Suite offers 650 sq. ft. of space, with a California King bed, 50” HF television, and kitchenette. It’s the perfect place for a honeymoon or romantic getaway. The Inn offers breakfast daily and wine tasting on weekends.

Brian Lee, Owner of Vendange, announced the extension of these two promotions today:

WISHFULWEDNESDAY - 15% OFF SPECIAL OFFER VALID THROUGH JANUARY 31ST, 2016

Wishing for a midweek getaway? Vendange wants to give you one. Book your stay directly on www.vendangecarmel.com for a wednesday through January 31st, 2016 and receive 15% off your booking. Must put in promotional code wishfulwednesday on the website. The 15% off is valid for all rooms except standard Queens. (Offer not valid on holidays and black out days. Promotional code must be entered at the www.vendangecarmel.com website for the discount to apply.)

ILOVEWINE 10% OFF SPECIAL OFFER VALID THROUGH JANUARY 31ST, 2016

Vendange has extended its holiday promotion with a special discount valid through January 31st, 2016. Book your stay directly on www.vendangecarmel.com through January 31st and receive 10% off your booking. Must put in promotional code ILOVEWINE on the website. The 10% off is valid for all rooms except standard Queens and requires a two night stay. (Offer not valid on holidays and black out days. Promotional code must be entered at the www.vendangecarmel.com website for the discount to apply.)

Vendange is located at 24815 Carpenter Street in Carmel, a short drive away from the Monterey Peninsula Airport, just off of scenic Highway 1, with free parking for guests. It’s minutes from downtown Carmel’s shopping, fine dining, scenic 17-Mile Drive, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Telephone 831- 624-6400; email: reservations@vendangecarmel.com

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.vendangecarmel.com

Tickets on Sale Now! Early-Bird All-Event Badges will be Sold until December 31, 2015

Jazz Bash by the Bay Presents The World of Jazz on the Monterey Waterfront March 4 – 6, 2016 at Portola Plaza Hotel Lineup for 2016 Announced.

Monterey, CA, December 09, 2015 - Jazz Bash by the Bay brings together the many colorful forms of American classic jazz, including traditional jazz, ragtime, swing, gypsy jazz, zydeco and blues.

World-class musicians make Monterey their home.

Jazz by the Bay will be held March 4-6, 2016 when the historic Monterey waterfront will be flooded with the tunes of our rich musical tradition in the ballrooms, cabarets and outdoor pavilion of the Portola Hotel & Spa, the Monterey Conference Center and the Custom House Plaza.

Early-Bird All-Event Badges will be Sold until December 31, 2015.

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at http://jazzbashmonterey.com/badges/ or call 888-349-6879 or 831-754-8786

2016 Line Up Announced:

Featured Bands:

· Royal Society Jazz Orchestra

· Uptown Lowdown jazz Band

· Titan Hot Seven

· Carl Sonny Leyland Trio

· Ivory & Gold

· High Sierra Jazz band

· Blue Street Jazz Band

· Tom Rigney & Flambeau

· Yve Evans Trio

· Crescent Katz

Guest Artist:

· Jeff Barnhart

· Danny Coots

· Brian Holland

· Bob Draga

Early-Bird All-Event Badges will be sold until December 31, 2015

· Badges Early Bird All-Event Badge $95

· Early Bird Badge for Hotel Pkg $95

· All-Event badge $105

· Friday Day Badge $45

· Saturday Day Badge $6o

· Sunday Day Badge $45

· Individual Patron Package $240

· Family Patron Package $600

· Swing Dance Party $25

· We3 Concert $30

· Dance & We3 $50

Children 14 and under admitted FREE with an adult. High school students with an ID are admitted FREE. College students, active-duty military, and group rates available.

Background on Jazz Bash by the Bay:
Part of Jazz Bash by the Bay’s mission is to encourage young musicians to discover traditional jazz and learn more about their musical heritage. Understanding the fundamentals of early jazz provides an excellent foundation for future musical exploration and study. A scholarship fund established in 1990 enables youth participation in jazz clinics and camps. Each year at Jazz Bash by the Bay, attendees are treated to performances by outstanding youth bands. A free early jazz youth clinic is held Saturday morning. Youth band performances Saturday afternoon and evening are free to everyone. High school students and younger students with an adult are admitted free for all three days of the festival. For more information please call 831.675.0298 or 888.349.6879 for more information go to www.jazzbashmontery.com.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.jazzbashmonterey.com

Hofsas House Hotel Announces its 2016 Packages

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, December 08, 2015 -- 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.

Owner and General Manager, Carrie Theis, announced today the hotels 2016 packages. 2016 is the 100 year anniversary of Carmel-by-the-Sea. For any packages in 2016 add on a 100 Years of Carmel-by-the-Sea history book for $10.00. Learn about the 100-year history of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Carmel-by-the-Sea Celebrates 100 Years:

Celebrate Carmel-by-the-Sea’s 100th Anniversary and Hofsas House Hotels 69th Anniversary with our History Tour! Delight in the special charms of Carmel on a leisurely, fun and informative two-hour guided walk past enchanting Fairy-tale cottages, through secret pathways, hidden courtyards and award-winning gardens. At the end of the tour, you’ll feel like a local. Cost is $25 per person. When booking use promotion code: HHWALKS.

Get Artsy Package

For decades, Carmel, California has been an artist’s enclave! Today there are more than 80 art galleries in walking distance from the hotel. The Hofsas House Hotel is no exception and has been touched by one of the World’s most famous artists. Did you know? Maxine Albro was commissioned by Donna Hofsas to paint the welcoming mural and the headboard featured in room 47 of the Hofsas House. In the 1940s and 1950s, Maxine was living in Carmel and was friends with Donna. After the main four-story addition to the Hofsas House was complete in 1957, Donna asked Maxine to paint the mural and add other highlights to the front of the building to enhance the Bavarian theme. Maxine also painted the three pictures hanging in the lobby.

The Hofsas House Get’s Artsy with its special Artist Package. Stay in the Room 47 – the room Maxine Albro painted! Carmel continues to be an artist colony and attracts some of the World’s most famous artists. The Hofsas House is located within blocks of one of the World’s most premiere sculptors. As part of the hotels Get Artsy package, guests will have the opportunity to meet local Carmel sculpture Steven Whyte (subject to his availability) and take a personal tour of his studio (located only two blocks away from the Hofsas House). Steven Whyte’s studio tours are subject to the artist’s availability. Call Hofsas House the Hofsas House to book this package. Guests can also experience the new Carmel Art Tours, www.carmelarttours.com , 800-979-3370 , for $25 per person, reservations required and this tour can also be arranged in advance by the Hotel staff.

www.carmelarttours.com ,800-979-3370

Third Night's A Charm
Book 3 nights and the 3rd is 1/3 off. A getaway is always a wonderful break…they just don’t last long enough. At Hofsas House we know the 3rd nights a charm

Subject to availability. Minimum of three (3)-night stay required. Savings reflected in rate at time of booking. If modifications to reservation are made during your hotel stay (e.g. early departure), the promotion is void and your rate will be adjusted to the rate of the day. Taxes and gratuities not included. Offer not applicable to groups, negotiated or third-party rates. Not combinable with any other offers. Not applicable to existing reservations. Blackout dates apply. Offer valid from November thru February excluding holidays and AT&T golf week. Mention Code HHCHARM when booking.

Golfer’s Delight
"The Hofsas House Hotel has partnered with one of the Monterey Peninsula’s best golf courses. Book a stay and add a round of golf at the recently renovated and immaculate green grasses of the historic Quail Lodge Golf Club! Play a 18-hole round of golf including shared cart and range balls for an additional $100 per person. When booking use promotion code HHQUAIL and let us know what day you would like to play and whether you would prefer an AM or PM tee time. Our staff will make the arrangements. Tee times based on the availability of the Quail Lodge Golf Course."

Wine and Cheese Package
"Stay at the Hofsas House and order our special wine and cheese package for $30. Enjoy a bottle of Monterey County Wine and a cheese pairing from the Cheese Shop when you order the Wine and Cheese Package in advance. Please order 48 hours in advance of stay and specify red or white wine.

In addition, taste wines at nine different Carmel tasting rooms on the Wine Walk by-the-Sea with a Wine Tasting Passport. The Carmel Wine Walk by-the-Sea is pleased to offer a Wine Tasting Passport for $65, which entitles the buyer to one $10 flight at each of nine tasting rooms (a $90 value). The Wine Passport can be purchased from our concierge after checking in."
Tail Wagging Package:

Hofsas House is one of the most dog friendly hotels in Carmel. Guests receive a complimentary Doggie Welcome Package upon arrival that includes:

• Hofsas House Dog Frisbee
• Hofsas House collapsible dog bowl
• Special Dog Bed
• Letter from Cajun. our onsite Pet Concierge
• Special dog amenities package
• Tips and recommendations for your four legged friends stay
• Walking Trail and Hiking Guide
• A package of treats.
• Costal Canine Magazine—offering the best four legged options for visiting Carmel

Minimum two (2)-night stay. $25 fee per night for one dog and $40 per night for two.

Take a Hike at the Hofsas House Hotel
"Experience Big Sur hiking trails ranging from tranquil walks along a coastal waterfall to miles-long ascents through the redwoods and into the rugged wilderness or take in magnificent Point Lobos State Park. After a day of hiking the Big Sur coastline, guests relax in the hotel’s heated swimming pool or European dry saunas. Package includes a $25 gift certificate for Carmel’s 5th Avenue Deli. Offer valid from March 1 thru May 31, 2016 with a minimum of a two (2)-night stay. Mention HHNature at booking. Offer not valid with any other discounts, promotions or thru a third party booking agent.

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.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.hofsashouse.com

Holiday Retirement helps nation's grandparents fight to save the bedtime story

Holiday Retirement helps nation's grandparents fight to save the bedtime story

National story gathering campaign publishes children’s book, available this holiday season

LAKE OSWEGO, OR, December 04, 2015 — Every day, thousands of childhood bedtime stories are lost as another generation of storytellers (and their families) do not take the time to capture them. In an effort to save these cherished bedtime tales, Holiday Retirement, a manager of senior living communities nationwide, initiated a "story drive” earlier this year to begin collecting stories. Today, Holiday Retirement published a select few of the collected stories in a new children’s book, Bedtime Stories: Original Tales Shared from One Generation to the Next. 

“We all have extraordinary memories of our parents and grandparents tucking us into bed with heartwarming stories and lessons that inspired us to dream,” said Jamison Gosselin, vice president of marketing, communications, and resident

enrichment for Holiday Retirement. “It is an honor for us to collect bedtime stories from residents we serve and publish a few to share with the public. What’s more, a few of our residents created artwork to accompany the stories allowing us to produce an amazing book for the generations to share.”

The act of storytelling is one that builds connections, boosts creativity, and offers a venue for children to learn from their loved ones. And with a resource found at the back of Bedtime Stories: Original Tales Shared from One Generation to the Next, parents will have a tool to help their children connect with storytellers from different generations and write their own bedtime story as a way of preserving a family’s legacy.

“Relationships among the generations are so important as we pass along experiences, stories, and wisdom from one to the next,” said Gosselin. “Bedtimes stories are just one of many ways Holiday Retirement encourages intergenerational learning.”

This compilation of stories and poems, primarily written and illustrated by Holiday Retirement residents ranging in age from 66 to 93, will take readers through the Milky Way Galaxy, on a zoo adventure, and for a ride on Mortimer Bean’s crazy machine.

Purchase a copy of Bedtime Stories: Original Tales Shared from One Generation to the Next for $7.99 at sharebedtimestories.com; all proceeds benefit the National Center for Families Learning, a forward-thinking non-profit organization that addresses literacy by engaging all family members in learning, individually and as a group.

Holiday Retirement will continue to collect anecdotes, original tales, and fables handed down from generation to generation. Interested individuals are invited to send their beloved stories to sharebedtimestories@gmail.com. A select number of stories will be published on Better When Shared, Holiday Retirement’s blog.

Editor’s note: Story authors and illustrators are available for interviews to elaborate on what sharing their treasured stories means to them.

Media Contact:
Brian K. Fawkes
Holiday Retirement
971-245-8337
brian.fawkes@holidaytouch.com

About Holiday Retirement
Since 1971, Holiday Retirement has endeavored to provide its signature “Holiday Touch” to residents and their families.

Today, Holiday is a trusted name in senior living and provides security, comfort, and value to independent seniors seeking a fulfilling lifestyle. Holiday operates more than 300 retirement communities, making it the second largest senior housing operator in the United States. For more information about Holiday Retirement, please call 800-322-0999 or visit www.holidaytouch.com.

Contact:
Molly Koch
Communications Strategy Group
Denver, CO
720-726-5435

http://www.csg-pr.com

National Steinbeck Center partners with Salinas Public Library for Salinas Valley Comic Con 2015

“Comic strips might be the real literature of our time.” – John Steinbeck.

SALINAS, CA, December 03, 2015 - “Comic strips might be the real literature of our time.” – John Steinbeck.

The National Steinbeck Center and the Salinas Public Library are excited to announce details of the 2015 Salinas Valley Comic Con, December 18-20. This year’s event will be held at three locations – the National Steinbeck Center, the John Steinbeck Library and the Fox Theater in Oldtown Salinas. The National Steinbeck Center will be home base for all exhibitors, vendors and special guests, as well as the venue for an exhibition of original Batman art work.

Special guests will include former SpongeBob SquarePants head writer Steven Banks, Latino Comics Expo founder Ricardo Padilla, and the Imperial 501st Legion in full Star Wars costume.

“The Salinas Public Library is very excited about collaborating with the National Steinbeck Center for the 2nd Annual Salinas Valley Comic Con,” said Librarian Kristen Amaral. “We want to promote literacy by focusing on graphic novels from around the world and considering how graphic novels engage and inspire young and mature readers alike.”

On Friday, December 18 at 4:00 PM, the National Steinbeck Center will host a reception for museum members and VIP ticket holders where they will mingle with artists and special guests and get a sneak peek at the Batman art show. The evening will also include a panel discussion about the impact of graphic novels and literacy.

Salinas Valley Comic Con booths will open to ticket holders at the National Steinbeck Center at 10:00 AM on Saturday, December 19 and close at 5:00 PM on Sunday, December 20.

The John Steinbeck Library will host free family activities and a graphic novel display on Saturday, December 19. The Library will also host a game online where participants can win special prizes by using their library cards. Participants can join in the fun by visiting The Library’s website (www.salinaspubliclibrary.org) for full details.

At the Fox Theater on Saturday and Sunday, panel discussions will focus on a variety of topics, including Animation Rules!,

I Want To Make A Comic Book, Body Image and Diversity in Comics. The Star Wars-centric panels So, You Wanna Be A Stormtrooper (moderated by members of the 501st Legion) and Star Wars: The Fans Awaken are sure to bring out fans of the new movie opening the same weekend.

Featured in the National Steinbeck Center Bookstore will be Salinas Valley Comic Con merchandise, including a limited Batman lithograph created by comic book artist Ace Continueado. All proceeds will support the education and public programs at the National Steinbeck Center, including Steinbeck Young Authors and “Sweet Thursdays.”

Tickets for Salinas Valley Comic Con 2015 are on sale now at the National Steinbeck Center’s Eventbrite ticket page nationalsteinbeckcenter.eventbrite.com. Tickets are free for children under 8 (accompanied by a paid adult), $5 for children 8-12, and $25 for a full weekend pass.

Follow updates on Salinas Valley Comic Con 2015 at National Steinbeck Center’s website (www.steinbeck.org) and on social media.

Special guest and panel lineup is subject to change.

Facebook: Facebook.com/NationalSteinbeckCenter
Instagram:Instagram.com/SteinbeckCenter
Twitter: Twitter.com/SteinbeckCenter

Participate with Salinas Valley Comic Con fans online by using the hashtag #SVCC15.

For Media Inquiries, contact:
Jesse Banda
National Steinbeck Center
Salinas Valley Comic Con - Director
(831) 775-4721
jesse@steinbeck.org

About the National Steinbeck Center
The National Steinbeck Center is located at One Main Street in Salinas, California, the birthplace of John Steinbeck. The NSC is an institution dedicated to serving regional, national and international audiences by enhancing awareness of Steinbeck’s works and ideas: social justice, the environment, ethnic and racial diversity, and the power of the written word. Drawing on Steinbeck’s model, the NSC encourages collaborative ventures with other media – photography, drama, fine arts and film – as well as other disciplines. The Center offers multiple visitor experiences: the John Steinbeck Exhibition Hall as well as a variety of education and public programs. For more information about this and other events, visit our website at www.steinbeck.org.

About the John Steinbeck Library
The John Steinbeck Library offers family programming year around including guitar classes for families, story and craft times for kids, technology classes for kids and adults, and music in the library. Please call (831) 758-7311 for more information.

Contact:
Marci Bracco Cain
Chatterbox PR
Salinas, CA 93901
(831) 747-7455
http://www.steinbeck.org