Seven Area Students to be Awarded Scholarships June 2, at 59th Annual Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival in Monterey

Seven Central Coast students will be awarded Ocean Mist Farms Academic Scholarships at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, June 2, at the 59th annual Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center in Monterey.

Castroville, CA, May 17, 2018 — Seven Central Coast students will be awarded Ocean Mist Farms Academic Scholarships at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, June 2, at the 59th annual Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center in Monterey.

This is the third year that the scholarships will be awarded. This year, 39 students applied for the scholarship. Each recipient will receive $1,000 at the awards ceremony June 2.

The following are the scholarship winners, with name, high school, field of study and college they plan to attend, respectively.

>Ariel Sampson, Aptos High School, Engineering Management, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

>Akemi Ito, St. Francis High School, Biology, University San Diego

>Prashant Pranay Naidu, Salinas High School, General Education, Hartnell College

>Mark Kragh, Quail Hill High School, Computer Science & Engineering, UC San Diego

>Ella Dolores Tyler, Oasis High School, Civil Engineering, UC Berkeley

Dependent Scholarship Winners

>Nicole Taluban, San Benito High School, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, University of Nevada, Reno

>Ryan Percy, Desert Christian Academy, Agricultural Engineering, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

The mission of the awards are “to recognize students who demonstrate the guiding values of integrity, quality, passion and success in their daily decisions and in their pursuit of higher education.” Ocean Mist Farms’ 94-year legacy is represented in its strong belief in these guiding values.

The Ocean Mist Farms Academic Scholarship Program awards a total of seven $1,000 academic scholarships each year to deserving students. Two $1,000 scholarships are available exclusively to a dependent of an Ocean Mist Farms Affiliate Company employee.

Successful candidates demonstrate the use of the four guiding values in their daily decisions and in their pursuit of education. Applicants must be high school graduates with a 3.0 GPA or higher. Application requirements included an essay, letters of reference, a completed scholarship application and proof of higher education acceptance. The Ocean Mist Farms Scholarship Committee reviews all applications and awards scholarships based on the applicant's demonstrated potential for academic success.

About the Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival
The Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival began in 1959 and has since developed to become a harvest festival to celebrate the iconic artichoke and region known as the “Artichoke Center of the World.” The festival features family-fun events for all ages and has been a primary source of funding for local non-profit groups for many years. For more information, visit http://artichokefestival.org/.

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

Lifespan Launches a New Service: Well Being Program

In celebration of Lifespan’s 35th anniversary, a free class called “Where is the Joy? Putting Joy Back in your Life as you Age” will be presented on Thursday, June 28th.

Santa Cruz, CA, May 16, 2018 - Lifespan, a specialized aging care agency founded in Santa Cruz County 35 years ago, announces a new service. The Well Being Program recognizes that as people age many become socially isolated, losing the ability to pursue past or new activities that might bring them joy. Often they become disconnected from their community, family, and friends.

Too often social isolation, reduced mobility, or relocation to a new community can diminish access to activities which have brought enjoyment and fulfillment to a person’s life. Lifespan hopes to help local elders reengage and find joy again through its new Well Being Program.

The intent of this program is to increase engagement, sense of fulfillment, connection, and joy in life regardless of age or perceived changes in ability. At the outset a Lifespan professional meets with the elder to explore her or his desires which may include renewing or exploring a creative outlet, connecting with family members or old friends, pursuing a spiritual path, or participating in outings into the community. Once personal goals are identified, a specialized Personal Assistant from Lifespan is matched with the individual and the two can embark on planning activities.

In celebration of Lifespan’s 35th anniversary, a free class called “Where is the Joy? Putting Joy Back in your Life as you Age” will be presented on Thursday, June 28th from 5 pm– 6:30 pm at La Posada Senior Residence, 609 Frederick St., Santa Cruz. Attendees will learn how to create a richer life as they age through reengaging with old passions, exploring new interests, and reconnecting with old friends, family, or new experiences. To attend the class, RSVP to Marci@Chatterboxpublicrelations.com.

The featured speaker will be Cathy Cress, MSW, who is a leading national expert in aging life and geriatric care management. Cress is a well-known authority on the baby boomer generation and the aging family. Her book, Handbook in Geriatric Care Management is in its 4th edition. She earned her MSW from UC Berkeley and now consultants on aging issues, including life enrichment.

About Lifespan
Lifespan is a comprehensive aging care management agency dedicated to providing the highest quality of care in the home or setting of one’s choice.

Lifespan’s goal is to maximize the health, safety, comfort, and independence of its clients through compassionate person-centered care. Since 1983 Lifespan has provided all-inclusive home care and professional geriatric care management services to adults in need of assistance. A leader in aging care services, Lifespan is one of the very first organizations to provide this combination of care on the West Coast, and still the only agency of its kind in Santa Cruz County.

Lifespan’s professional care management is provided by registered nurses and master’s level social workers who conduct assessments of client strengths and unmet needs then help the client and family decide on a plan of care. In addition, care managers can coordinate a variety of resources and work with health care providers, fiduciary agents, and other professionals to make sure that all needs are met as conditions change. Lifespan also offers medication set-up and managements by RNs.

Home care aides provide the important support with activities of daily living such as light housekeeping, shopping, laundry, meal preparation and clean up, personal hygiene, mobility, and medication reminders. They also provide protective supervision for persons with cognitive impairment. Care up to 24/hours per day is offered based on staffing availability. All home care aide services are supervised by the professional care manager RNs and social workers to ensure optimal care.

Lifespan is in full compliance with the 2015 California Home Care Services Consumer Protection Act, under the auspices of the California Department of Social Services, which specifies that all employees meet criteria as registered home care aides. This includes thorough screening, criminal background clearance (fingerprinting) by both the Department of Justice and FBI in addition to verifying initial and ongoing professional training. Employees of all levels are covered by Lifespan’s general liability bond and worker’s compensation policies.

There are more than 2 million professional home care workers in the U.S. providing care and support to aging adults and persons with disabilities in home and community-based settings. The home care workforce has doubled in the past 10 years and the population of those 65 and older is expected to double to 88 million by 2050, making the role of professional aging care professionals that much more critical.

Lifespan
600 Frederick St.
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
lifespancare.com
(831) 469-4900
info@lifespancare.com

State of California Home Care Organization License # 444700001.

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

MPA Watch in Need of Volunteers

Learn How to Support Today

Monterey, CA, May 15, 2018 — California’s scenic and spectacular 840-mile coastline and ocean are among the country’s most treasured resources and is central to the state’s identity, heritage and economy. California also leads the nation and the world in ocean protection, ensuring the preservation of important ecosystems along its coastline.

Volunteers are often the lifeblood of the many and varied organizations, both public and private, that help preserve and protect the coast and ocean. One of those organizations is MPA Watch, a citizen science monitoring program that trains volunteers to observe and collect unbiased data on human uses of coastal and marine resources both inside and outside of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).

By involving local communities in this important work, MPA Watch programs inspire and empower stewardship of the coast and ocean, and educate community members about California’s ocean ecosystems.

MPA Watch programs across the state of California are continually training a network of volunteers to monitor resource use inside and outside these protected areas. Volunteers use standardized protocols to collect relevant, scientifically rigorous, and broadly accessible data.

Not only do local volunteers learn about their coastal environment and become "citizen scientists" and stewards of the area, but they generate large quantities of monitoring data that would not be possible under the current state budget.

Citizen-science, also known as community science, is research conducted by trained volunteers from the general public who are interested in science, monitoring, and conservation of the marine environment. But, you do not need any scientific background to collect data for these surveys.

Volunteers will be trained to collect valuable data on ocean users and their activities, such as surfing, kayaking, fishing, boating, running, etc. Specifically, the MPA Watch volunteers will observe and record both consumptive and non-consumptive offshore and onshore activities in and around MPAs, which will improve our understanding of how people are using these new MPAs.

Data are meant to inform the management, enforcement, and science of California' MPAs and allow us to see how human uses are changing as a result of implementation of these MPAs.

From 2010 to 2015, more than 850 MPA Watch volunteers were actively engaged in surveying MPAs from Mendocino County to San Diego County, resulting in more than 10,000 surveys.

Organizations in your community are always looking for volunteers to do this important work. To get involved, contact organizations that are operating MPA Watch programs in your area. Current organizations and their contact persons include:

Heal the Bay - Los Angeles County (Land-Based)
Jenna Segal, jsegal@healthebay.org

Los Angeles Waterkeeper - Los Angeles County (Boat-Based)
Michael Quill, mquill@lawaterkeeper.org

Orange County Coastkeeper - Orange County
Ray Hiemstra, ray@coastkeeper.org

Environmental Action Committee of West Marin (EAC) - Marin County
Morgan Patton, morgan@eacmarin.org

California Academy of Sciences
Rebecca Johnson, rjohnson@calacademy.org

Santa Barbara Channelkeeper - Santa Barbara County
Penny Owens, penny@sbck.org

WILDCOAST - San Diego County
Angela Kemsley, angela@wildcoast.org

Greater Farallones Association - San Francisco and Surrounding Counties
Kirsten Lindquist, klindquist@farallones.org

Eagle Eyes of False Klamath Cove – Del Norte County
Ruthie Maloney, ruthiemaloney@gmail.com

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

Have you ever thought about a career in Hospitality?

The Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel is looking for talented people to become part of one of the most dynamic hotel teams in Monterey.

Monterey, CA, May 15, 2018 - We are nestled within 22 acres of soaring Monterey Pine on Del Monte Golf Course. We are a destination hotel providing the most discerning traveler with an experience that is second to none.

We work hard but believe that we should enjoy where we work.
We know that relationships are key to our success, so we value them.
We love what we do, and it shows.
We strive for greatness because mediocre is not okay.

Hospitality isn’t just our job, it’s our way of life.

Are you ready?

Current
Career Opportunities

MANAGEMENT
Assistant Front Office Manager
Asst. Banquet Manager
Event Planning Manager
Sales Manager
Remote Sales Manager (Sacramento Area)
Executive Sous Chef
Sous Chef

FULL-TIME

Bellperson/Valet
Housekeeper/Room Attendant
Front Desk Agent
Bus Staff - Tusca
Barista – The Market
Bartender - Fireplace Lounge
Servers – Knuckles
Servers - Fireplace Lounge
Stewards
Cook
Operations Trainee

Apply online at: www.hyattregencymonterey.com

Click “careers at this hotel” link Scroll to bottom of page and search Monterey CA

AA/EOE M/FD/V

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

Palo Alto’s Luxury All-Inclusive Hotel, Clement Palo Alto, Adds Ridge Vineyards Experience to its Special Packages for Guests

The Clement Palo Alto All-Inclusive Luxury Hotel has partnered with an acclaimed Central Coast winery to offer the Ridge Vineyards Experience package for its guests.

Palo Alto, CA, May 12, 2018 — The Clement Palo Alto All-Inclusive Luxury Hotel has partnered with an acclaimed Central Coast winery to offer the Ridge Vineyards Experience package for its guests.

Guests can experience the number one winery in America with an exclusive private tasting and tour for two at Ridge Vineyards’ Monte Bello Estate. Nestled high in the northern reaches of the Santa Cruz Mountains and surrounded by historic vineyards, Monte Bello offers guests an unparalleled opportunity to experience exceptional single-vineyard wines, including the celebrated Monte Bello Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Ridge Vineyards Experience includes:

>Overnight accommodations at The Clement Palo Alto
>Reservations for an exclusive two-hour private tasting for two at Monte Bello Estate, any day of the week
>Daily breakfast for two in the comfort of your guestroom or in The Clement dining room
>Overnight valet parking and resort fee

The two-hour private tasting experience includes a tour of the vineyard, where guests will see the petite verdot, merlot, and cabernet vines, as well as the historic knoll covered with 66-year-old cabernet sauvignon vines. A dedicated host will present a customized five-wine flight and library pour of Monte Bello, which also includes the most current vintage. A cheese-and-tapenade plate completes the experience.

The Concierge can assist in customizing the experience and would be happy to arrange transportation of the guest’s choice for their convenience for an extra fee. Options range from a Town Car, Stretch Limo, and Passenger Van to an SUV or a Stretch SUV Limo.

To book this special wine package, call (650) 322-7111 and ask for the “Ridge Vineyards Experience” package. Valid through Dec. 31, 2018.

Package is subject to availability and cannot be combined with any other offer. Seven-day advance reservations are required. Rates do not apply to groups. Rates listed are per room, per night, single or double occupancy, and exclusive of taxes, gratuities, and other charges unless otherwise noted. Hotel and resort credits cannot be used toward room rate, tax, resort fee, or gratuities.

Reservations must be cancelled at least five days prior to arrival to avoid a cancellation charge (one night’s room rate, plus tax).

About The Clement Palo Alto
When the Clement Palo Alto opened its doors March 2016 it was one of the most innovative, personalized and unique luxury hotels in the country. With its all-inclusive services and amenities and 23 spacious and richly appointed one-bedroom suites, The Clement Palo Alto set a new standard for personalized luxury accommodations in a contemporary residential-style atmosphere.

The Clement Palo Alto's all-inclusive services and amenities include:

·All-inclusive breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks
·All-inclusive wine, beer and cocktails (charges apply for premium brands)
·All-inclusive in-room dining
·All-inclusive mini-bar
·All-inclusive fully-stocked Guest Pantry available around the clock
·All-inclusive Business Center
·All-inclusive valet parking
·All-inclusive twice-daily housekeeping services
·All-inclusive overnight shoe shine services
·All-inclusive high-speed Internet
·All-inclusive personal concierges
·All-inclusive gratuities

“With a focus on hands-on management and exclusive luxury features rarely found elsewhere, The Clement is a very unusual hotel,” writes travel writer Emma Krasov of realtraveladventures.com. “It offers all-Inclusive resort-like stays in one of the most business-oriented locations in the nation, and provides highly personalized service by anticipating and meeting the guests’ every request.”

The Clement Palo Alto Hotel
711 El Camino Real
Palo Alto, California 94301
650.322.7111
www.theclementpaloalto.com

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

Advance Tickets, Discounted Ticket Packages Available for 59th Annual Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival June 2-3, in Monterey

Advance tickets and discounted ticket packages are available online for the 59th annual Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival, set for June 2-3, 2018, at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center in Monterey.

Castroville, CA, May 11, 2018 — Advance tickets and discounted ticket packages are available online for the 59th annual Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival, set for June 2-3, 2018, at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center in Monterey.

Festival attendees will enjoy dozens of fresh artichoke food delicacies, a beer, wine and spirits garden, chef demos, live entertainment, field tours and more during the two-day festival.

General admission is $15 for those 13 and older; seniors 62 and older and military personnel with ID are $10; children ages 6-12 are $5; general admission for one adult, with wine tasting pass, is $45 (must be 21 years or older); wine tasting alone is $30; and field tours are $10 (daily tour schedules to be announced at the Festival), good for adult or child 5-12. Online purchases are available through 9 a.m. June 3, 2018. No refunds.

Two discounted packages are also available, the Arti-Family Pack and the It’s A Date package. The former is $30, a $10 saving over the regular price. It includes two adult tickets and two children’s tickets, good for Saturday or Sunday. This early bird discount ends May 19, 2018, at 12 a.m. No refunds.

The It’s A Date package for 21 and older only, is $70, a savings of $20, includes two adult tickets and two wine and beer tasting tickets, good for Saturday or Sunday. This early bird discount also ends May 19, 2018, at 12 a.m. No refunds.

The festival’s live entertainment lineup, free with festival admission and held on the Main Stage, includes Uptown Funk, Lady Gaga Tribute Band, Wild Turkeys, Chicano All Star Band, Sasha’s Money, and West Coast World Martial Arts, whose members have won 30 championship titles.

Sasha’s Money rocks the Main Stage at noon Saturday; local favorites Wild Turkeys take the stage at 2 p.m. Saturday; Lady Gaga Tribute Band plays 4:30 p.m. Saturday; West Coast World Martial Arts 11:30 a.m. Sunday; Chicano All Star Band plays at 1 p.m. Sunday; and Uptown Funk plays 3:30 p.m. Sunday.

The Main Stage will also host the Ocean Mist Farms Scholarship Presentation at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Artichoke Canasta Contest at 1 p.m. Saturday and noon Sunday, and an Artichoke Eating Contest at 3:30 p.m. Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday.

In addition, singer-songwriter Bridget Marie will perform from noon-4 p.m. Saturday and noon to 3 p.m. Sunday at the Wet Your Thistle Saloon.

The Family Stage features Absolute Magic (11 a.m. Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday), Monterey Zoo (noon Saturday), Samz School of Rock Youth Band 2018 (1 p.m. Saturday), NCA Dance Studio (11 a.m. Sunday), and Estelar Mariachi (noon Sunday).

The Wine & Beer Garden is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Must be 21 to enter.

In addition to live entertainment, there will also be live chef demonstrations. All chef demos will be held on the Chef Demo Stage at the festival and are free with admission to the festival.

SATURDAY, JUNE 2

10:30 a.m. Pat Hopper — Artichoke ABC's
11:15 a.m. Butch Francis — Cowboy Sausage
12 p.m. Estevan Jiminez — Rancho Cielo Culinary Arts
12:45 p.m. Dyon Foster — Chef's Palette Spice Rubs
1:30 p.m. Chris Vacca — Hyatt Carmel Highlands
2:15 p.m. Paul Blackerby — Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa
3:00 p.m. Pat Hopper — Artichoke ABC's

SUNDAY, JUNE 3

12:45 p.m. Dyon Foster — Chef's Palette Spice Rubs
1:45 p.m. Chris Vacca — Hyatt Carmel Highlands
2:45 p.m. Estevan Jiminez — Rancho Cielo Culinary Arts
3:15 p.m. Pat Hopper — Artichoke ABC’s

Live Entertainment Bios:

Uptown Funk
Uptown Funk offers a unique experience that will exceed your expectations! This tribute includes a high stepping male vocalist and a group of very talented musicians, who together provide an exciting mix of the Funk and R&B sound of Bruno Mars. Uptown Funk will guarantee to keep an audience on their feet!

Lady Gaga Tribute Band
Erika Moul, and The Lady Gaga Tribute Band, created her Lady Gaga act out of passion and connection to Lady Gaga’s message of love, freedom and acceptance. Her alias as “Baby Gaga” made Erika a small town celebrity that eventually caught the eyes of Vegas before she even graduated from high school. After meeting Gaga’s parents and opening up for her best friend Lady Starlight, she began performing all over the world, including Jakarta, Indonesia where Lady Gaga’s concert had been banned. Erika has since then been recognized by her ͚Mother Monster͛ via social media regularly. Singing and performing 100% LIVE, Erika proves that true talent is the ability to transform. Erika will always actively support the Born This Way Foundation as well as her own little monsters worldwide.

Wild Turkeys
An old-school rock sound with an energetic, youthful vibe; that’s what characterizes the Wild Turkeys’ live performance. Covering classic rock standards from the 60’s to the 90’s, Rolling Stones to Judas Priest, the Wild Turkeys are less interested in breaking new ground as they are in treading familiar territory in a brand new pair of snakeskin boots. This is fun dancin’ music for the fun-loving crowd, nothing pretentious or artsy, just goodtime tunes that appeal to music fans spanning several decades.

Chicano All Star Band
The Chicano All Stars Band is an extremely talented, dynamic and energetic all pro-musician band that plays Latin Rock, Rhythm & Blues, Old School and danceable Reggae. Lead vocalist Sam Martinez and lead guitarist and vocalist John Mallare, along with the polished horn section, create a sound that has made it one of the top Latin Rock bands in the area.This dance band’s music appeals to a wide variety of audiences and will keep everyone dancing ‘til the music stops.

Sasha’s Money
This hot, cover band from Santa Cruz, includes Michelle Kraft (Sasha) (lead vocals, percussion), Mike Kelly (bass, lead vocals), Bill McBride (guitar), and Randy Solomon (drums) and legendary local guitarist, Johnny McCullough. Starting in 2015, they play an eclectic mix of dance songs from several decades, including covers of The Police, Sublime, Elle King and No Doubt. In October 2016, Sasha’s Money had the honor of opening for James Durbin at the Catalyst in Santa Cruz. Inspired by the music of Amy Winehouse, The Pretenders, and Blondie, Sasha’s Money will get everyone out to the dance floor and leave wanting more.

Bridget Marie
Bridget Marie has consistently Ranked #1 On ReverbNation Music Charts for the last few years and may be one of the best undiscovered singer-songwriter talents on the planet. And though many have seen her beautiful exterior, it is not until one hears her soulful voice that her complete, vulnerable beauty is revealed.

About the Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival
The Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival began in 1959 and has since developed to become a harvest festival to celebrate the iconic artichoke and region known as the “Artichoke Center of the World.” The festival features family-fun events for all ages and has been a primary source of funding for local non-profit groups for many years. For more information, visit http://artichokefestival.org/.

Additional Media Details:

Entertainer images https://spaces.hightail.com/space/IJrYgqqdwo
For Additional Information http://artichokefestival.org/entertainment-events/live-entertainment/; http://artichokefestival.org/entertainment-events/family-stage/
And we have great ticket packages available: http://artichokefestival.org/tickets/

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

Hartnell Community Choir Directed by Robin McKee Williams Announces 2018 Spring Concert on June 10, in Carmel

The Hartnell Community Choir will present their spring concert at 3 p.m. Sunday, June 10, at Church of the Wayfarer in Carmel.

Salinas, CA, May 10, 2018 — The Hartnell Community Choir will present their spring concert at 3 p.m. Sunday, June 10, at Church of the Wayfarer in Carmel.

The choir, conducted by Robin McKee Williams, will perform “Lux Aeterna” by Morten Lauridsen, “Dark Night of the Soul” and “Evening Prayer” by Ola Gjeilo, “Even When He is Silent” by Kim Arnesen and “Alleluia Tropus” by Arvo Part.

The program includes soloists from the east coast, San Francisco Bay area and Monterey Peninsula. The Gabrielle Ensemble from the Monterey Peninsula will be the guest orchestra for the performance. The choir is comprised of professional and volunteer singers.

The Hartnell Community Choir was originally affiliated with Hartnell Community College and is now an independent organization that has performed at Avery Fisher Hall, Carnegie Hall, Steinbeck Center, Hartnell College and local churches.

Building upon the solid backbone of a small ensemble, McKee Williams includes soloists and instrumentalists to fulfill her goal of enriching the community with beautiful music, while showcasing local talent and other world-class musicians she has met through her participation in the Distinguished Concerts International New York (DCINY) mentoring program for conducting.

This summer, the Hartnell Community Choir will sing at the Ely Cathedral under the direction of Dr. Craig Jessop, formerly of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. The choir was invited to sing in the Great Britain Choral Festival in Cambridgeshire, England commemorating the 100th anniversary of the armistice of World War 1. And, the choir will sing at the Vatican in June 2019 in the Rome Choral Festival.

Baritone Krassen Karigiozov will open the program singing “Nemicco della patria” by Andrea Chenier accompanied by pianist Marina Thomas. Professor Karigiozov has sung operatic roles with New York City Opera, San Jose Opera, and the Spoleto Opera Festival. Born in Bulgaria, he has participated in and won international competitions in voice and piano.

Kiril Havezov will sing “En Sourdine” by Gabriel Faure. Havezov is from Bulgaria and has sung roles on the stages of the most prestigious opera houses in Bulgaria. He has sung as a permanent guest soloist at the Sofia National Opera as well as sung operatic roles in the United States and China.

Mezzo-soprano Veronica Jense is one of the featured soloists as well. She recently premiered the “Tale of Lady Thi Kinh” by PQ Phan and sang roles with Peoria Symphony’s production of “Cosi fan tutte.” Soprano Jody Lee, originally from Canada and now a resident of the Monterey Peninsula, is the featured soloist for “Song of the Angel” by John Tavenor.

Soprano Cora Franz, from Baltimore, Maryland, is the soloist for “The Dark Night of the Soul” by Ola Gjeilo. Anna Yelizarova, an international opera singer will, sing “Amour! Viens Aider” by C. Saint-Saens.

The Gabrielle Ensemble and is led by violinist Eldar Hudiev, and includes Astrid Huala, violin, John Wineglass, viola, Amy Anderson, cello and Alesksey Klyusknik, bass. Stewart Reynolds will play saxophone in the “Evening Prayer” by Ola Gjeilo. Marina Thomas and George Peterson are the featured pianists.

There is a suggested donation of $25. For more information, call 831-649-0992.

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

Monterey County Fair Seeking Home Goods, Art, Crafts, Livestock Entries to be Judged and Exhibited at 2018 Monterey County Fair, Aug. 30-Sept. 3

Are you a creative amateur photographer, love to bake, are an accomplished gardener, make your own wine and beer, sew your own clothes, adept at arts and crafts or raise livestock?

Monetery, CA, May 08, 2018 — Are you a creative amateur photographer, love to bake, are an accomplished gardener, make your own wine and beer, sew your own clothes, adept at arts and crafts or raise livestock? Then the Monterey County Fair is inviting you to enter your products or projects for judging and display at this year’s Fair, Aug. 30-Sept. 3, 2018.

The Fair’s exhibit program is an excellent way for you to show off your talents, earn bragging rights and, above all, have fun. A 2018 Entry Guide Book, which has all the information you need to enter, such as due dates, deadlines, rules and regulations, local rules and entry forms, is available at www.montereycountyfair.com. If you have questions, you can call the Entry Office at (831) 372-5863.

All of the divisions and classes will be judged under the American system and/or the Danish system. The American judging process ranks exhibits against one another and awards one first place, one second, etc. The Danish judging process compares each exhibit on its own merits against the scorecard or recognized standard and awards as many first places, etc. as merited.

All entries must be submitted to the Fair, either online, by mail or in person at Fair Administration office at 2004 Fairground Road in Monterey, with entry fees, by the due date.

The Fair will be held Aug. 30-Sept. 3, 2018, at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center, 2004 Fairground Road in Monterey. The Fair’s theme this year is “Shake Your Tail Feathers.”

About the Monterey County Fair & Event Center
The Monterey County Fair & Event Center is a premier event center set on 22 oak-studded acres with ample parking. It is a state-owned multi-use facility that features four large banquet rooms, two outdoor concert venues, and a variety of outdoor and indoor cost-effective sites ideal for all types of events. It is home of the annual award-winning Monterey County Fair, host to many major and private events on the Central Coast, and the site of the Monterey Bay Race Place, a Satellite Wagering Facility.

For more information, contact the Fair Administration Office, at 2004 Fairground Road in Monterey, by calling (831) 372-5863 or go to www.montereycountyfair.com for more information.

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

The 59th Annual Artichoke Food & Wine Festival Will Showcase Talents of Some of the Top Chefs in Monterey County

Some of the best chefs in Monterey County will be showcasing their culinary talents at the 59th annual Artichoke Food & Wine Festival, set for Saturday and Sunday June 2-3, 2018, at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center.

Castroville, CA, May 04, 2018 — Some of the best chefs in Monterey County will be showcasing their culinary talents at the 59th annual Artichoke Food & Wine Festival, set for Saturday and Sunday June 2-3, 2018, at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center.

All chef demonstrations will be held on the Chef Demo Stage at the festival and are free with admission to the festival.

SATURDAY, JUNE 2

10:30 a.m. Pat Hopper — Artichoke ABC's

11:15 a.m. Butch Francis — Cowboy Sausage

12 p.m. Estevan Jiminez — Rancho Cielo Culinary Arts

12:45 p.m. Dyon Foster — Chef's Palette Spice Rubs

1:30 p.m. Chris Vacca — Hyatt Carmel Highlands

2:15 p.m. Paul Blackerby — Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa

3:00 p.m. Pat Hopper — Artichoke ABC's


SUNDAY, JUNE 3

12:45 p.m. Dyon Foster — Chef's Palette Spice Rubs

1:45 p.m. Chris Vacca — Hyatt Carmel Highlands

2:45 p.m. Estevan Jiminez — Rancho Cielo Culinary Arts

3:15 p.m. Pat Hopper — Artichoke ABC’s

In addition to the chef demos, festival attendees will enjoy fresh artichoke food delicacies, a beer, wine and spirits garden, live entertainment, field tours and more during the two-day event. The Monterey County Fair & Event Center is located at 2004 Fairground Road in Monterey.

About the Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival
The Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival began in 1959 and has since developed to become a harvest festival to celebrate the iconic artichoke and region known as the “Artichoke Center of the World.” The festival features family-fun events for all ages and has been a primary source of funding for local non-profit groups for many years. For more information, visit http://artichokefestival.org/.

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

Hofsas House Hotel in Carmel Announces its Tail Wagging Package

The Hofsas House Hotel, a 38-room boutique family-owned inn in the heart of Carmel, is pleased to announce the launch of its Tail Wagging Package.

Carmel, CA, May 03, 2018 - The Hofsas House Hotel, a 38-room boutique family-owned inn in the heart of Carmel, is pleased to announce the launch of its Tail Wagging Package. To book this package during your stay, call (831) 624-2745 or email info@hofsashouse.com.

Hofsas House Tail Wagging Package

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 Tank, our onsite Pet Concierge
Special dog amenities package
Tips and recommendations for your four-legged friend’s stay
Walking trail and hiking guide
A package of treats
Coastal Canine Magazine — offering the best four-legged options for visiting Carmel

This package requires a minimum two-night stay, $30 fee per night for one dog and $50 per night for two dogs.

About Hofsas House
The Hofsas House Hotel is a boutique family-owned inn with 38 uniquely decorated, spacious rooms, many with ocean views overlooking the pines in the village of Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Dutch doors appoint each room allowing our guests to enjoy the fresh ocean air. Our guests watch glorious sunsets over the Pacific Ocean from the privacy of the inn's decks or rooms. Some rooms and most suites have fireplaces, private balconies, wet bars or kitchens.

The Hofsas House is located three blocks north of Ocean Avenue, eight blocks from the picturesque white sand Carmel beach and one block from a child-friendly City park. There is plenty of off-street parking and guests delight in walking everywhere in Carmel from the inn. Enjoy a continental breakfast in the morning with French roast coffee, tea, fresh pastries delivered from a local bakery, juice, yogurt and fruit.

Other amenities include a heated swimming pool, dry saunas, view deck areas and free wireless Internet access. Some rooms are dog friendly. Casual elegance, personal service and traditional family hospitality are the trademarks of Hofsas House Hotel.

Hofsas House Hotel
Between 3rd & 4th Ave on San Carlos Street.
P.O. Box 1195
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA 93921
Phone: (831) 624-2745
info@hofsashouse.com
HofsasHouse.com

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

Bay Area Folk Singer and Her Group to Perform Interactive Children’s Concert on June 22, in Palo Alto

Folk musician Kathy Sherman and her band Hey Mom! will perform a free, family-friendly interactive concert Friday, June 22, at Mitchell Park in Palo Alto.

Los Altos, CA, April 30, 2018 - Folk musician Kathy Sherman and her band Hey Mom! will perform a free, family-friendly interactive concert Friday, June 22, at Mitchell Park in Palo Alto.

Part of the Friday night summer concert series at the Magical Bridge Playground, located at Mitchell Park, 3700 Middlefield Road in Palo Alto, Sherman and Hey Mom! will perform from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Sherman has been a professional folk musician for 44 years and a music teacher for nine. She performs in three different folk bands and has released six recordings.

Her latest release is an 18-song children’s singalong album, “Let’s Sing!” which features such all-time favorite sing-alongs such as “The Hokey Pokey,” “She’ll Be Comin’ ’Round the Mountain,” “I’ve Been Working on the Railroad,” “How Much is That Doggie in the Window,” and “Teddy Bear’s Picnic.”

The album also has an accompanying “Let’s Sing!” songbook, which includes all of the songs on “Let’s Sing!,” as well as selected songs from Hey Mom!’s “Listen to Your Mama” and “Singing on a Star.”

Sherman recently won a Parents' Choice Recommended award for “Let’s Sing,” as well as a glowing review:

“Singer and multi-instrumentalist Kathy Sherman welcomes little ears with her renditions of folk and children's songs, inviting listeners to play and sing along. These 18 tracks include fresh offerings of such traditional fare as ‘I Had a Rooster,’ ‘I've Been Working on the Railroad,’ and ‘She'll Be Comin' 'Round the Mountain,’ as well as Dale Marxon's ‘Waltzing with Bears,’ Peter Alsop's ‘I Am a Pizza,’ Tom Paxton's ‘The Marvelous Toy,’ Tom Chapin and John Forster's ‘Bedtime Round,’ and more. Sherman's happy mix of tunes is made even happier with the voices of her Good Folk Kids singers.”

In addition to Hey Mom!, Sherman is also member of the Good Folk Collective, the Greek folk duo The Plaka Band. She has recorded and released six albums with the three groups.

About Kathy Sherman
Kathy Sherman started her professional music career at age 15, playing Greek music in clubs, restaurants, festivals , and concerts. She put down her bouzouki, the mandolin-like instrument central to modern Greek music, long enough to earn a BMus in classical guitar performance from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. She was a member of the Electric Guitar Quartet, a classical / comedy group that opened for such guitar luminaries as Leo Kottke, Jorma Kaukonen, John Hartford, The Great Guitars (Barney Kessel, Charlie Byrd, and Herb Ellis) and Free Flight.

Kathy’s current music experiences include Greek folk music with long-time friend and fellow musician, Notis Contoplianos in their group, The Plaka Band. Notis and Kathy have two extraordinary CDs, New Songs of Old Athens (selected for Grammy consideration for best World Music Album), and A Time to Sing, A Time to Dance, a rollicking collection of favorite Greek dance music. For more information about The Plaka Band, please check out their website, ThePlakaBand.com. Kathy also plays classical mandolin for orchestras who have the occasional need for one.

http://www.goodfolksongs.com
https://www.instagram.com/goodfolksongs/
https://store.cdbaby.com/m/cd/kathyshermanandthegoodfo
https://www.facebook.com/kathy.sherman.folk.singer.123829?hc_ref=ARSxYil_PqqCjfBQih1NEnvBFJnE2ogdDAYvxKRTFspGrq8hCv1gsf9bPo36UpZdfUU&fref=nf
http://www.goodfolksongs.com

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

Monterey Museum of Art presents The 2018 Weston Scholarship Exhibition

The Monterey Museum of Art (MMA) is pleased to present The 2018 Weston Scholarship Exhibition, May 10 – July 8, 2018 at MMA Pacific Street, 559 Pacific Street, Monterey.

Monterey, CA, April 29, 2018 - The Monterey Museum of Art (MMA) is pleased to present The 2018 Weston Scholarship Exhibition, May 10 – July 8, 2018 at MMA Pacific Street, 559 Pacific Street, Monterey. The Opening Reception and Awards Ceremony will be held Friday, May 11, 5:30 - 7:30 pm. General admission for the reception is $10, and the event is free for Museum Members.

The Weston Scholarship keeps the traditional process of black and white fine art photography alive in the tradition of Edward Weston and Ansel Adams. The Museum connects our community to this legacy by showcasing the next generation of Monterey County photographers. The Weston Scholarship was established in 2004 by Gina and Kim Weston to support high school and college students studying fine art photography in Monterey County, and is specifically focused on students practicing analogue black and white photography. Both Gina and Kim wish to foster photographic education as a way of nurturing a medium they love. They offer students, artists, educators and the community the opportunity to experience the richness of photography through scholarships, mentorships, exhibitions, workshops, publications, lectures, video and artists in residence.

The Monterey Museum of Art (MMA) maintains a distinguished collection of California Central Coast photography. MMA connects our community to this photographic legacy by showcasing the next generation of Monterey County photographers.

Media Inquiries: pr@montereyart.org or 831.372.5477 x101.

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

Monterey Museum of Art Hosts First Friday Event May 4 to Celebrate Year of the Woman

Monterey Museum of Art will host a series of First Friday events launching on May 4 featuring fine art, fresh music and crafted cocktails, at its 599 Pacific Street location.

Monterey, CA, April 24, 2018 — Monterey Museum of Art will host a series of First Friday events launching on May 4 featuring fine art, fresh music and crafted cocktails, at its 599 Pacific Street location.

The event will be held from 5-7 p.m. Friday, May 4, and feature artwork from Currents exhibit artist Robin Sawyer of Carmel Valley, FLUX artist Babs DuPont Hanneman, fresh music and special cocktails crafted from Frísco brand, an unoaked grape brandy. Admission is a pay-what-you-like donation and is for those 21 and older.

The event is part of the Museum’s focus on 2018 as the “Year of the Woman,” a full slate of exhibitions and events with a focus on notable women artists of California and the Central Coast.

“Currents” is one of two new spaces the Museum opened this year (along with “Flux”), both dedicated to California living artists, showing work from the last two years. Sawyer’s and Hanneman’s work is on display through May 13.

About the Monterey Museum of Art
The Monterey Museum of Art expands a passion for the visual arts and inspires appreciation of California Art — past, present, and future. The Monterey Museum of Art connects art and community, with an emphasis on participatory experiences built around the Museum’s strong collection of California and regional art. Exhibitions and programs of the highest quality are designed to engage and inspire visitors.

The Museum was established in 1959, to uphold the artistic legacy of the region by collecting, preserving and presenting the art of California and the Central Coast. Originally a chapter of the American Federation of the Arts, MMA remains the only nationally accredited art museum between San Jose and Santa Barbara. For additional information on the Museum's exhibitions, programming and events.

Monterey Museum of Art – Pacific Street
559 Pacific St., Monterey, CA 93940
Phone: (831) 372-5477
Fax: (831) 372-5680
Email: info@montereyart.org
http://www.montereyart.org

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

Dance Kids of Monterey County Names Experienced Professional Dancer and Teacher as New Artistic Director

Dance Kids of Monterey County has named veteran professional dancer and teacher Philip Pegler as its new Artistic Director.

Carmel, CA, April 19, 2018 — Dance Kids of Monterey County has named veteran professional dancer and teacher Philip Pegler as its new Artistic Director.

Pegler has more than 30 years of experience in Classical Ballet as a professional dancer and teacher. He is the Ballet Director at Carmel Academy of Performing Arts and has been a Rehearsal Director for Dance Kids for the past four years.

Born in England in 1974, Pegler began his study of Classical Ballet at the age of 5. In 1986, he embarked on his professional training, firstly at the Bush Davies School, followed by The Vaganova Academy, The Legat School and The Harid Conservatory in Florida, where he graduated in 1992. Later that year, Philip was accepted into The Royal Ballet School where he completed his training both as a dancer and teacher.

Upon graduation, Philip became Ballet Master and Soloist Dancer with Columbia City Ballet in South Carolina and was subsequently appointed to the position of Artistic Director of the South Carolina Dance Theatre the following year.

In 1998 he became Director of the Calvert-Brodie School of Dance where he taught such notable students as Cameron Adams, Dusty Button, Brooklyn Mack, Sara Mearns, Joseph Phillips and Christian Tworzyanski.

In 2002 Philip was appointed Professor at the University of Florida where he created a new curriculum for the University's Ballet program as well as serving as a pre-performance lecturer at the Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

From 2009-14 Philip taught at Elmhurst Ballet School in Birmingham before returning to the United States. In April 2010, he was elected to the Board of Trustees of the Royal Academy of Dance. Philip is an acclaimed international master-teacher and is a guest faculty member of several respected schools throughout the world.

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

Wedding Celebrations and Special Honeymoon Package Offer

Hotel is the Premiere Asian Wedding Facility on the Central Coast

Monterey, CA, April 18, 2018 - The Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa wedding planning offers something for everyone, from traditional wedding ceremonies to Indian and Southwest Asian wedding celebrations.

Whether you envision a simple gathering with a few family and friends or an elaborate formal affair, you’ll discover just what you are wishing for at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa. Our team of expert on-site event planners will assist you from beginning to end, from selecting your wedding site and caterer to ensuring that no detail is overlooked.

Our event planners are well-versed in the unique requirements for Indian and Southwest Asian wedding celebrations.

“Our mission is a simple one...we aspire to exceed all of your expectations, creating imaginative and memorable experiences that will delight all of your senses,” said Jenny Lopez, Director of Events, Hyatt Regency Monterey. “Our dedicated professional staff brings experience and desire to every event and thrives on making sure our clients are extremely delighted with our service.”

From an outdoor baraat reception, Choice of your own Indian catering, and the Hyatt’s world-renowned service, the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa will bring your Indian Wedding dreams to life!

Indian Wedding Package Includes:

>Largest ballroom in Monterey and surrounding area

>Perfect path for the baraat

>Ample space for Mendhi & Brunch the day after the wedding

>Spacious, resort-like feel

>550 rooms, including 32 suites, for the three-day long celebrations

>Ability to bring in outside caterers

>Large garden terrace for your ceremony or cocktail reception

Now when you celebrate your special day at Hyatt®, you can earn free honeymoon nights on us. Whichever honeymoon destination you choose, you’ll make memories that will last a lifetime. Simply book and hold your wedding or commitment ceremony at a participating Hyatt hotel by Dec. 31, 2018, and you will earn World of Hyatt® bonus points. Points are redeemable for free nights with no blackout dates at any Hyatt hotel or resort worldwide.

Here are two recent Indian and Southwest Asian Weddings at Hyatt Monterey.

http://weddingdocumentary.com/weddingphotos/indian-wedding-at-hyatt-regency-monterey/
https://www.linandjirsablog.com/hyatt-regency-monterey-wedding-vikram-sheetal/
Backgrounds on Weddings at Hyatt Monterey:

Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa Weddings are treated as a one-of-a-kind event, and include:

· A professional wedding specialist

· A tempting array of food and beverages to fit whichever type of reception you select, including hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, plated dinners and wine service

· Choice of wedding sites throughout our Monterey hotel, for ceremony and reception

· Complimentary honeymoon suite for the bride and groom

· Variety of dining options featuring TusCA Ristorante and Fireplace Lounge

· Extensive activities for you and your guests, including golf, tennis, pools and more

· Beautiful backdrops for photographs, including our gazebo with fireplace and gardens

· Special rates in our spacious guestrooms for family and friends from out-of-town

· Complimentary parking

· Great location, adjacent to Pebble Beach Company’s 18-hole Del Monte Golf Course, with direct access to Cannery Row and Monterey Bay Aquarium

Wedding Locations

Choose the perfect spot for your wedding from our extensive array of locations, ranging from outdoor gardens to elegant ballrooms. From the Regency Grand Ballroom to our spacious Garden Terrace Courtyard you’re sure to find just the right wedding location to suit your style and needs.

· Regency Grand Ballroom — Our largest wedding location, this expansive yet welcoming ballroom can accommodate the longest of guest lists. Enjoy a formal banquet, complete with dance floor and stage for entertainment, with seating for 800. The room easily divides into several separate salons, with capacity to seat from 70 to 400 guests.

· Bordered on two sides by outdoor heated terraces, with natural lighting and vaulted ceilings (the highest ceiling of all hotels in the area), this ballroom provides a wonderful Monterey Bay location for both wedding reception and ceremony.

· The adjacent pre-function foyer includes an outdoor heated patio and retractable awning — perfect for your cocktail hour.

· Monterey Ballroom — Prominent indoor and outdoor function space conveniently located adjacent to the hotel lobby and Main Building. Designed for that more intimate feel, select the entire room for a seated banquet with 300 guests or 600 for a classic reception. For smaller groups, the ballroom can be configured into various combinations to fit your needs. The ballroom is complete with an outdoor terrace and is located adjacent to the main building.

· President's House — This very unique residence offers a secluded hideaway, perfect for a newlywed couple. This historic and luxurious residence offers over 2,500 square feet of living space, including four master suites, living room with stone fireplace, and library with fireplace and gourmet kitchen. A large covered lanai, extensive stonework and landscaping surround a private swimming pool. Select this one-of-a-kind locale for a special rehearsal dinner, cocktails for the wedding party or other exclusive events surrounding your wedding.

· Garden Terrace Courtyard — The perfect location for an outdoor ceremony or open air reception, conveniently located, adjacent to Hotel Hospitality Suites and Regency Grand Ballroom.

For more information contact our wedding specialist at 831-657-6540, or email hyattmontereycatering@hyatt.com

Click here to view our Wedding Brochure for additional information.

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, 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/.

About Davidson Hotels & Resorts
Davidson Hotels & Resorts is an award-winning, full-service hotel management company providing management, development/renovation, acquisition, consulting and accounting expertise for the hospitality industry. Amassing one of the purest full-service hotel portfolios in the industry, Davidson, along with its lifestyle and luxury operating division, Pivot Hotels & Resorts, specializes in independent and branded assets in the upper-upscale to near-luxury segments including 45 hotels, over 13,000 rooms and over 1.5 million square feet of meeting space across the United States. A trusted partner and preferred operator of Marriott, Hilton and Hyatt, Davidson delivers hospitality and creates value for owners with every single hotel. More information can be found at www.davidsonhotels.com.

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

Principals in Leading Florida-based Vacation Rental Consulting Firm Featured Speakers at Four Industry Conferences in 2018

Ben Edwards, founder and CEO, and Greg Herr, VP, of Weatherby Consulting LLC, a leading vacation rental consulting firm based in Florida

Miramar Beach, FL, April 18, 2018 — Ben Edwards, founder and CEO, and Greg Herr, VP, of Weatherby Consulting LLC, a leading vacation rental consulting firm based in Florida, were featured speakers at three industry events in March and April as well as one coming up in September.

Herr spoke at the 2018 Vacation Rental Management Association (VRMA)

Western Regional Conference at Portland Marriott Downtown Waterfront in Portland, Oregon, on March 27. Edwards spoke at the 2018 VRMA European Conference March 4 in Paris, and at the 2018 VRMA Eastern Regional Conference on April 16-17, at Hyatt Regency Miami, in Miami, Florida.

And, both principals will speak at Rezfest 2018, the world’s leading vacation rental technology conference, on Sept. 25-27, 2018, at JW Marriott Beach Resort in Marco Island, Florida.

At the Western Regional event March 27, Herr’s talk, “Financially Managing Your Business like a Pro,” articulated tangible techniques to financially manage vacation rental operations like a professional. Participants learned how to increase efficiency and generate a meaningful profit in their business.

At the European Conference on March 4, Edwards spoke on “Strategic Financial Management for Your Vacation Rental Company.” Edwards discussed how, no matter how big or small your company, financial management is key to success. The session taught participants how to set their company up for optimal financial management with best practices for taxes, proactive financial reporting, and tips on how to find outside investments.

At the Eastern Regional Conference event April 16, Edwards participated in a Property Management Executive Roundtable with Steve Milo, CEO of VRTrips. In this session, property managers get to speak freely among themselves on important topics, including software systems, technology platforms, marketing channels, regulations and much more. Edwards, Milo and Eric Bordier will moderate this roundtable in a manner that facilitates an exchange of multiple topics.

Edwards also gave a talk on “Financially Managing Your Business like a Pro,” on April 17, at the Miami event.

Edwards and Herr will also speak at RezFest 2018, which is set for Sept. 25-27, 2018, at the JW Marriott Beach Resort, Marco Island, Florida. At this year’s Rezfest, participants will dive deep into industry trends and technology solutions, inviting all professional property managers to join in. The event will feature exciting general sessions and keynote speeches, plus many opportunities to collaborate and network with hundreds of industry leaders and property managers from around the globe.

About Ben Edwards
As a respected and innovative industry leader, Ben Edwards has been positively affecting the vacation rental industry for over 18 years. From managing small resorts, to financial and operational auditing, to opening large-scale resort developments, Edwards’ unique background provides a multi-level approach to vacation rental consulting, transaction advisory services and accounting services. Involved in more than 100 purchase and sale transactions in the vacation rental industry, Edwards's experience offers significant advantages, typically providing material gains or savings of the gross purchase price for clients at a cost that is generally a small fraction of the value delivered.

About Weatherby Consulting
Weatherby Consulting provides strategic transaction advisory services, vacation rental consulting an expert accounting services to create opportunities and solutions in the highly competitive vacation rental and resort management industries.

Founded in 2013 by vacation rental industry veteran Ben Edwards, Weatherby Consulting is the preeminent provider of consulting services in the vacation rental industry with more than 100 buy-and-sell transactions and more than $200 million in sales of vacation rental companies throughout his career.

Based in Miramar Beach, Florida, Weatherby Consulting delivers high-impact results, provides partner-level attention and implements solutions tailored to address every client’s unique goals and objectives.

Weatherby Consulting has worked with industry leading clients in more than 200 resort markets across North America and beyond. With more than 18 years of industry and accounting knowledge, Weatherby Consulting provides rapid, strategic advice to assist our clients with purchase-and-sale transactions, profitability consulting and vacation rental specific financial reporting.

With an unwavering dedication to both the short- and long-term interests of your company, our services are designed to identify underlying issues, provide straightforward answers, and create solutions that will achieve the maximum financial benefit and a competitive advantage for your organization.

Their services include:

1. Transaction Advisory Services — This service line includes the purchase and sale of Vacation Rental Companies, our primary service line.

2. Vacation Rental Consulting — We provide consulting services focused on creating sustainability, efficiencies and increased profits.

3. Accounting Services — We provide expert-level accounting services and financial reporting to more than 30 companies across the U.S.

4. Partnership Opportunities — Weatherby Consulting is willing to partner with Vacation Rental Companies to more effectively manage certain business operations and substantially increase the value of the business.

Weatherby Consulting, LLC
755 Grand Boulevard
Suite 105-275
Miramar Beach, Florida 32550

Toll-Free: (888) 304-1405
Fax: (888) 304-1405
Email: info@weatherbyconsulting.com

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

Monterey Entrepreneur with Passion for Olive Oil Launches Ruccello Olive Oil, specializing in Extra Virgin Olive Oils, Olive Wood Items and Olive Oil Parties

RoseAnne Ruccello-Fischer has a passion for premium olive oil and she’s turned that passion into a vocation, recently launching Ruccello Olive Oil, which specializes in Extra Virgin Olive Oils from Italy and California, hand-crafted olive wood items and handmade aprons.

Monterey, CA, April 16, 2018 — RoseAnne Ruccello-Fischer has a passion for premium olive oil and she’s turned that passion into a vocation, recently launching Ruccello Olive Oil, which specializes in Extra Virgin Olive Oils from Italy and California, hand-crafted olive wood items and handmade aprons.

“I want to offer consumers the highest quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil from the best producers from around the world,” says Ruccello-Fischer, a native of Monterey, California. “I’m also committed to educating the consumer on the many health benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil and how to be a discerning consumer through olive oil tastings, olive oil and food pairing events and house parties showcasing this incredible oil.”

Starting April 15, Ruccello Olive Oil will offer on its website, ruccellooliveoil.com, Extra Virgin Olive Oil from the Tuscany region in Italy and California, handmade olive wood bowls and cutting boards, and aprons crafted by hand.

In the future, she hopes to offer more varieties of Extra Virgin Olive Oil from around the world. She also currently imports European antiques with her husband in partnership with a company in Carmel Valley.

And starting April 4th, olive oil lovers will be able to book a Grove Gathering, a fun way to spend an evening with friends learning about olive oil and tasting and savoring the way olive oil enhances the flavor of food.

Participants in the Grove Gathering will learn about olive oil facts and tips, health benefits of olive oil, olive oil tasting and food pairings. Hosts of these parties will receive discounts and/or a gift based on party sales.

To have a Grove Gathering or to get more details, contact RoseAnne at roseanne@ruccellooliveoil.com, by calling 831-275-8306, or through this website at ruccellooliveoil.com.

Ruccello Olive Oil also offers monthly subscriptions and have your olive oil delivered automatically every one or two months.

Ruccello-Fischer may be passionate about olive oil, but she’s equally passionate about eating and living well.

She’s been in the health care field for more than 30 years and is a Clinical Laboratory Scientist, so she’s well acquainted with the many health benefits of olive oil.

But it wasn’t until 2015, when she and her husband bought a small house in Tuscany nestled in the Chianti hills, with vineyards and olive groves everywhere you could see, that the idea of running her own olive oil business took seed.

A local business owner in their small Italian town suggested importing extra virgin olive oil to the U.S., an idea that appealed to her. She wanted to learn everything she could about olive oil, so signed up for an Olive Oil Sommelier class.

The original business idea didn’t pan out, but she did learn quite a bit about olive oil, especially the fact that many olive oils for sale in the U.S. are mislabeled and adulterated and that customers were being duped into buying Extra Virgin Olive Oil that was either virgin olive oil or lampante oil, which is not fit for human consumption.

So she decided she wanted to educate American consumers and offer them the best Extra Virgin Olive Oil that the world has to offer.

“Consumers know that olive oil is good for you, but there are a lot of myths about it out there,” she says. “I want to share what I’ve learned and I want to provide a product that people can trust and feel safe in the knowledge that the products are of the highest quality.”

Ruccello Olive Oil was founded, the name taken from her maiden name. She’s already working with three olive oil producers in Italy and one in Callifornia, with another from Italy in the works.

With Ruccello Olive Oil, Ruccello-Fischer is fulfilling one of her passions.

“I have a passion for good food and a desire for a healthy life, and Extra Virgin Olive Oil enhances both.”

Ruccello Olive Oil
P.O. Box 257, Monterey, CA 93940
Telephone: 831-275-8306
WhatsApp: 1-831-275-8306
roseanne@RuccelloOliveOil.com
http://ruccellooliveoil.com

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

The 59th Annual Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival Gives Back to the Community through its 12 Charity Partners

The Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival not only provides the community with a wealth of fun and learning every year, it gives back to the community through its dozen charity partners.

Castroville, CA, April 13, 2018 — The Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival not only provides the community with a wealth of fun and learning every year, it gives back to the community through its dozen charity partners.

The 59th annual festival takes place June 2-3, 2018 at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center in Monterey and continues the legacy of celebrating the iconic artichoke and region known as the “Artichoke Center of the World.”

For almost six decades, the Artichoke Festival has been dedicated to informing and exciting festival attendees about the unique qualities of artichokes including farming, harvest, and preparation to demonstrate how the artichoke industry has influenced the history of Monterey County. And now, as a 501c3 organization, the purpose remains the same with an emphasis on giving back to the local community.

“We look forward to the Artichoke Festival each year because the event paints a clear picture of how this community comes together to support one another,” said Diana McClean, senior director of marketing at Ocean Mist Farms and board member for the Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival. “The purpose of this organization aligns directly with Ocean Mist Farms’ values, which is part of the reason we enjoy sponsoring this annual event.”

Proceeds from the festival are used to support 501c3 community organizations and activities that align with the festival’s mission. The following are the 2018 Artichoke Food & Wine Festival Donation Recipient Organizations:

>Ashleigh Nicole Swain Memorial Scholarship Fund
This scholarship fund was set up in the memory of Castroville’s Ashleigh Nicole Swain, 16, a junior at North Monterey County High School, who died in a tragic car accident on Nov. 4, 2011. She was born January 18, 1995 in Salinas, to Jeremiah and Tobi Swain. She was a member of PAL at NMC, was talented in stained glass and jewelry making, and hoped to pursue a career in nursing. A page on Facebook was set up for her, In Loving Memory of Ashleigh Swain. https://www.facebook.com/In-Loving-Memory-of-Ashleigh-Swain-218362504897879/

>Bikers for Bikes
Founded in 2008 by motorcyclist Rick Jenkins and members of the West Coast/Monterey Bay Harley Davidson Owner’s Group, Bikers for Bikes provides 20-30 new bicycles a year to underprivileged youth. The group is also involved in a Turkey Trot to raise funds and buy turkeys for holiday meals, donates toys to kids during Christmas and participates in other charitable events. This is their third year with the festival. To donate to Bikers for Bikes, contact Rick Jenkins at 831-320-2956.

>North Monterey County High School Baseball
North County High School Baseball is heading in the right direction of its old traditions. NMC Baseball teaches young teens the core values of life through the game of baseball while pursuing greatness, sportsmanship and respect. North County has a rich tradition of athletes, who can play at the highest levels of baseball if given the opportunity and financial help they deserve. nmcusd.org

>North Monterey County High School Golf
Head Coach Tim Bearden heads the 2018 Condor Golf Team in Monterey Bay League action. nmcusd.org

>Marina Lions Club
The Marina Lions Club, established in 1984, is a small, but active club, part of Lions Clubs International, the world's largest service club organization with more than 1.4 million members in approximately 46,000 clubs in more than 200 countries and geographical areas around the world. One hundred percent of funds raised by the club goes back to the community. http://e-clubhouse.org/sites/marina_lionsca/

>Ord Terrace Elementary School
Ord Terrace Elementary School in Seaside provides a positive learning environment, establishes high expectations, and worsk collaboratively with each other, families, and the community to ensure all students achieve academic success and demonstrate social responsibility. https://ote-mpusd-ca.schoolloop.com/

>Agricultural History Project
The Agricultural History Project (AHP) is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit charitable organization founded in 1986, and opened its doors to the public in May 2004. Its mission is to honor and promote knowledge about agriculture on the Central California Coast, both past and present. It does this through exhibits and interactive activities that help visitors experience daily life on farms and ranches on the Central Coast during the 1800’s and early 1900’s.
http://aghistoryproject.org

>Peacock Acres
Peacock Acres in Salinas provides supportive housing, intense case management, and life coaching for foster children and young adults who have been separated from their families. With high character and resolve, Peacock Acres youth are steered towards opportunities for healing and growth as they continue their journey toward a fulfilling, productive life.
peacockacres.org.

>North County Bulldogs
The North County Bulldogs play in the 12-team Monterey Bay Youth Football League in Midgets, Pee Wee and Jr. Pee Wee divisions. The league’s mission is to provide a positive outlet for the youth around the Monterey Bay and tri-county areas. The league strives to teach kids the sport of football and cheer and how to be productive citizens who are proud of their teams and the MBYFL.
http://montereybayyouthfootball.com/football/teams/north-county-bulldogs/

>North County Recreation & Park District
NCRPD is a Local Government Agency (Special District) providing recreation and parks services to the North Monterey County area, including the communities of Castroville, Moss Landing, Oak Hills and parts of Elkhorn and Prunedale, along with the surrounding rural community. NCRPD operates the North County Recreation Center, Cato-Phillips Park, Crane Street Park, Japanese School Park, Rancho Moro Cojo Park and the Moro Cojo Nature Trails. ncrpd.org

>Hope Horses & Kids
Hope, Horses & Kids serves as a resource for families, organizations and schools that utilizes authentic learning experiences to foster positive character and leadership development. HHK, a non-profit organization, is committed to positively impact the emotional, mental, behavioral and social challenges of individuals that are underserved or have special needs. www.hopehorseskids.org

For more information contact:
Diana McClean
dmcclean@oceanmist.com
(831) 770-6435

>North Monterey County Middle School Library
The library has been partnering with the festival for the past 25 years. Funds are used to buy books, computers, and whatever is needed for the library. And from time to time, funds have been used to gift students who are unable to afford graduation. nmcusd.org

About the Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival
The Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival began in 1959 and has since developed to become a harvest festival to celebrate the iconic artichoke and region known as the “Artichoke Center of the World.” The festival features family-fun events for all ages and has been a primary source of funding for local non-profit groups for many years.

Festival attendees enjoy several fresh artichoke food delicacies, a beer, wine and spirits garden, chef demos, live entertainment, field tours and more during the two-day festival. To support these events, the Artichoke Festival is encouraging individuals and organizations to volunteer their time to ensure another successful year.

For more information about giving back to the community through volunteering, please visit http://artichokefestival.org/general-info/volunteers/. For general information, visit http://artichokefestival.org/.

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

Joseph Eid Drops “Watch It Fall” Music Video Available April 13!

“Watch It Fall” is the title and focus track from Eid’s recent EP

Los Angeles, CA, April 11, 2018 - On “Watch It Fall,” pop-folk artist Joseph Eidtells the story of a life lived as a spectator, an existence filled with perception, insight, empathy, and, of course, sadness. The song is told from the perspective of someone who’s lived in the same building for years, something they never intended to let happen. And yet, mingled with the regret of a static existence is the beauty of knowing a place so well, and feeling a profound connection with that shared history. Hardships become strengths.

Set to lovely and light guitar strings and a melody which marries quiet joy with melancholy, this is Eid at his most honest. The music video, filmed and directed by Patrick McPherson, brings the vision behind the music to life. On half the screen, we see Eid – on the other, we see what he witnesses: lives unfolding amongst his building’s shared hallways, gardens, and laundry rooms, turning corners and stepping through doorways. From these lives, in this place, he draws inspiration. Even if he isn’t in his ideal place or circumstance, his art blossoms.

On April 13, 2018, you can watch Joseph Eid’s “Watch It Fall,” a touching new video release from one of indie folk’s most thoughtful artists.

About Joseph Eid:
Since the release of his Human LP, Folk-Pop artist Joseph Eid has been garnering considerable buzz. American Songwriter Magazine featured him in its “Best New Music” column, and he was named as one of the 100 Hottest Live Unsigned Artists by Music Connection Magazine. The magazine also reviewed his latest EP release “Watch It Fall” and described him as “an engaging storyteller (a la Jason Mraz) with a keen eye for character.” His song “It’s Only Love” is in the new Universal Studios film All I Wish, starring Sharon Stone.

Eid was raised in a strict, traditional home. The arts were only supported as a hobby -- never a career.But destiny prevailed. After his first semester in medical school, his dreams got too big to contain.Eid dropped out. Hemoved to New York City to pursue music.

He picked up a guitar. He joined a band. He moved, again, this time to Los Angeles. Shortly after, he began working with world-renowned guitarist/songwriter, David Lamar, honing his songwriting at weekly showcases at the Stone Bar. This led him to write dozens of new songs as well as record a debut EP, Cardiac Output, followed by a full-length LP, Human. He has a residency in Downtown LA at Bar Mattachine, where he performs when he’s not touring nationally.

For More about Joseph Eid visit:
https://www.josepheidmusic.com/
https://www.facebook.com/JosephEidMusic/
https://twitter.com/JosephEidMusic
https://www.instagram.com/josepheidmusic/

Contact:
Chip Schutzman
Miles High Productions
PO Box 93157
Hollywood CA 90093
323-871-4821
chip@mileshighproductions.com
http://www.mileshighproductions.com

Array of Informative Free Seminars Announced for the 2018 Spring Inspired Home & Garden Expo of Monterey to be held on April 21st and 22nd at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center

Don’t miss the informative home, garden and cooking seminars and workshops coming up at the free 2018 Spring Inspired Home & Garden Expo of Monterey on April 21st and 22nd at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center.

Monterey, CA, April 10, 2018 - Don’t miss the informative home, garden and cooking seminars and workshops coming up at the free 2018 Spring Inspired Home & Garden Expo of Monterey on April 21st and 22nd at the Monterey County Fair & Event Center.

Are you prepared for great home entertaining this Spring and Summer! Why not create a fabulous outdoor kitchen or back yard sanctuary, upgrade your dining room area or add a kitchen island for all of your cooking projects?

You will be able to ask an array of diverse experts on site all of your home improvement questions! This year’s event will feature useful Home and Garden Exhibits, Daily Seminars, Live Chef Demos, Shopping, and Charity Partners as well as Expo Sponsors.

Stop by for a few hours and discover the very best in home-improvement products, advice and inspiration. Home expo exhibitors include general contractors, flooring, landscapers, kitchen and bath, cabinets, closet organizers, landscape designers, painters, countertops, tile, granite, appliances, solar energy, fireplaces, and much more all from around Monterey County!

Spring is a great time to evaluate your home and initiate home renovation projects so you’ll be ready to enjoy visits from family and friends in your updated home.

It’s also a wonderful time to Get Inspired! Start by visiting the Inspired Home Expo to plan your home improvement and landscaping vision and meet trusted experts who can make it a great reality. Unleash your creativity and create a true sanctuary where you can relax and rejuvenate in your beautiful home.

At a Glance:

· Saturday, April 21, 2018 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

· Sunday, April 22, 2018 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

· Free to all attendees!

· The Spring 2018 Inspired Home Expo of Monterey will feature a full weekend of activities for homeowners plus the latest remodeling, landscaping and home accessory trends and tips.

· Educational home improvement seminars by local professionals, cooking demos, local charity partners and more.

· Additional informative and fun free seminars will be available both days during the Spring 2018 Inspired Home & Garden Expo of Monterey (full schedule coming soon on inspiredexpos.com)

· The Grand Prize for attendees of the event: $100 Home Depot Gift Certificate!

· Free parking!

· Location: Monterey County Fair & Event Center, 2004 Fairground Rd. Monterey, California. (Please enter at Gate 3)

· For more information, go to InspiredExpos.com or call (831) 222-0772.

During the Spring 2018 Inspired Home Expo of Monterey weekend, there will be an outstanding line-up of seminars in the home, food and garden areas that include many experts in their field. Attendees can plan their visit to the Spring 2018 Inspired Home & Garden Expo of Monterey around many valuable remodeling workshops and home improvement seminar presentations by local experts and live chef demos and some seminars are now listed below.

2018 Spring Home Expo Seminar Schedule

Saturday, April 21, 2018

12:00 pm

Easy Updates When Selling Your Home or Just to Enjoy It More

Presented by Amber Russell of Over the Moon Realty, Inc.

Join us as local real estate broker Amber Russell goes over quick fixes and changes for your home to make it a more attractive and impressive space. These updates can help with making your home more desirable when the potential buyers come through, or to just create a more enjoyable space for you and your family.

12:45 pm

Learn More About High Quality Olive Oil & Olive Oil Demo

Presented by RoseAnne Ruccello-Fischer of Ruccello Olive Oil

We know that olive oil is good for you, but there are a lot of myths about it out there. Many olive oils are for sale in the U.S. and are mislabeled or adulterated. As a new provider of high quality extra virgin olive oil from Italy and California, RoseAnne Ruccello will share olive oil facts and tips, health benefits of olive oil, and will discuss how to do olive oil tastings and food pairings.

1:30 pm

Cooking Demonstration

Spring Vegetable Farrotto Cooking Demonstration

Presented by Chef Scott “Paul” Blackerby of the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel Spa TusCA Ristorante

Join Chef Paul as he makes a delectable dish of Spring Vegetable Farrotto, a dish much like risotto but with farro grains. We will make the quick and easy dish using ancient wheat grain farro, sauteed asparagus, peas, squash, baby tomatoes, herbs, vegetable broth, and finished with lemon olive oil!

2:15 pm
Homes for Heroes: Cash Back for Heroes who Buy or Sell a Home

Presented by Allison Chance of Homes for Heroes

Learn about the Homes for Heroes program where qualifying professions (Firefighters, Law Enforcement, Military (Active, Reserve & Veterans), Healthcare Professionals, EMS, Teachers) receive cash back when buying or selling a home. As a military spouse herself, Allison is pleased to offer this amazing program. Allison will also be doing a giveaway for a $50 Target gift card for those who attend the seminar!

3:00 pm

The ABC’s of Artichokes

Presented by Denice Amerison of Castroville Artichoke Festival Food & Wine

Join us to learn the ABC’s of Artichokes! We will cover basic preparation of artichokes, including how to microwave them, pressure cook them and other secrets of artichokes! Pat Hopper will also unveil the mystery and flavor of California’s official state vegetable!

Sunday, April 22, 2018

12:00 pm

Why Choose Metal Roofing

Presented by Mike Ruiz of Noble Pride Roofing

Watch a live demonstration showing how metal roofing panels are formed through a metal panel machine. Learn the advantages of metal roofing and see why today metal roofing is a popular alternative to traditional roofing products.

12:45 pm

Spring & Summer Painting Tips for Your Home

Presented by Jon Stuefloten of Jon Stuefloten Restoration Painting

Join us as Jon Stuefloten of Jon Stuefloten Restoration Painting discusses spring and summer painting tips for the exterior and interior of your home. He will be offering advice on the best colors for your home, techniques and much more.

1:30 pm

Hardscape Design & Opportunity

Presented by Steve McShane of McShane’s Landscape Supply

Too many landscapes go underutilized due to maintenance challenges. Join Steve McShane to dream up cost effective landscape solutions using stone, pavers, rocks and bark. Steve will highlight materials that last and require little or no upkeep. Steve will also walk through the design process so you can begin thinking about outside spaces you can enjoy.
And more seminars to be announced!

Corporate Sponsors:

· Noble Pride Roofing

Media Corporate Sponsors:

· Monterey County Herald

· KRML Radio 102.1 FM and 1410 AM

· Times Publishing Group

Exhibitor booth and Sponsorship opportunities are still available. For more information, go to www.InspiredExpos.com/Expos/Monterey.

Publicity Contacts:
Wendy Brickman (831) 633-4444 or brickman@brickmanmarketing.com
Marci Bracco (831) 747-7455 or marci@chatterboxpublicrelations.com

About Presenter RoseAnn Ruccello-Fischer
RoseAnne Ruccello-Fischer has a passion for premium olive oil and she’s turned that passion into a vocation, recently launching Ruccello Olive Oil, which specializes in Extra Virgin Olive Oils from Italy and California, hand-crafted olive wood items and handmade aprons.

Starting April 1st, Ruccello Olive Oil will offer on its website, ruccellooliveoil.com, Extra Virgin Olive Oil from the Tuscany region in Italy and California, handmade olive wood bowls and cutting boards, and aprons crafted by hand. In the future, she hopes to offer more varieties of Extra Virgin Olive Oil from around the world. She also currently imports European antiques with her husband in partnership with a company in Carmel Valley.

Ruccello-Fischer may be passionate about olive oil, but she’s equally passionate about eating and living well. She’s been in the health care field for more than 30 years and is a Clinical Laboratory Scientist, so she’s well acquainted with the many health benefits of olive oil. But it wasn’t until 2015, when she and her husband bought a small house in Tuscany nestled in the Chianti hills, with vineyards and olive groves everywhere you could see, that the idea of running her own olive oil business took seed.

A local business owner in their small Italian town suggested importing extra virgin olive oil to the U.S., an idea that appealed to her. She wanted to learn everything she could about olive oil, so signed up for an Olive Oil Sommelier class. The original business idea didn’t pan out, but she did learn quite a bit about olive oil, especially the fact that many olive oils for sale in the U.S. are mislabeled and adulterated and that customers were being duped into buying Extra Virgin Olive Oil that was either virgin olive oil or lampante oil, which is not fit for human consumption.

So she decided she wanted to educate American consumers and offer them the best Extra Virgin Olive Oil that the world has to offer. Ruccello Olive Oil was founded, the name taken from her maiden name. She’s already working with three olive oil producers in Italy and one in California, with another from Italy in the works.

More about the Expo:
Learn from and become “inspired” by top professionals in the field. Come meet the experts from the community who can help you create a more beautiful living environment, make a space more comfortable or fix an issue in your home. The event gives you the opportunity to build relationships with the people who can help you make your dreams become reality. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for ideas for Spring projects, inspiration or just browsing home improvements large too small. Talk with expert local home contractors that can create all your “inspired”, images from your clippings and Pinterest boards, meet your Google search list face to face, and make your home improvement dreams a reality.

The free, fun and informative Spring 2018 Inspired Home & Garden Expo of Monterey will be held on Saturday and Sunday, April 21st and 22nd at the Monterey Fair & Expo Center, 2004 Fairground Road, Monterey, CA. This not-to-be-missed event will feature about a hundred LOCAL home and garden professionals on site, many based in Monterey County, with all of your home project solutions. They will be available to answer all of your questions and provide expert advice for enhancing your indoor and outdoor living space.

The Spring 2018 Inspired Home & Garden Expo will feature displays and exhibits of the latest ideas in home improvement, remodeling, interior design, decorating and landscaping. In addition, it will provide educational and informative seminars and demonstrations designed to help you enhance the beauty and the value of your home. Quality contractors, expert craftsmen, premier designers and home improvement professionals are there both days to focus on all of your needs to make your home meet your vision.

About Simply Clear Marketing & Media:
Simply Clear Marketing & Media (SCMM) is a professional event management and marketing company based on the Central Coast. SCMI currently produces 7 successful INSPIRED trade show events per year and is expanding its events and services. The Inspired Home Expos are designed to create an environment for consumers to find the products and services they need to create the home of their dreams. The vision behind the home expos is to create a location for local residents to meet face to face with local companies who can help them to create a beautiful living environment and increase the value of their homes. The health expos provide a location for residents to meet face to face with a variety of health, wellness, and fitness providers in the area.

Simply Clear Marketing & Media’s mission is to help small businesses grow by connecting them with potential clients through events and marketing. For more information, go to www.InspiredExpos.com or call (805) 222-0772.

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