Veteran Technology CEO Jennifer Sultzaberger Launches #vidit, A Revolutionary Video Marketing Technology

Videos Get Noticed With #vidit, The Hashtag Keyword Strategy That Ranks YouTube Videos Higher In Google Search

Scottsdale, AZ, August 04, 2014 — Black Dog Promotions is excited to announce new client #vidit, a revolutionary video marketing technology created by female technology CEO, Jennifer Sultzaberger.

Sultzaberger developed this powerful strategy that uses hashtag #keywords to get YouTube videos noticed quickly. #vidit guarantees a keyword listing on the first page of Google within 30 days or your money back.

With affordable price points, any business can justify the #vidit service in their marketing budget for the opportunity for so many customers to see their videos. More traffic equals more customers and profits.

Sultzaberger said, “Developing #vidit was fun for me. I used all my SEO and digital marketing knowledge to research trends by watching videos and taught myself how to “isolate” videos to perform at the top of the search engine listings. It only made sense to pursue a company that could help all business turn visitors into buyers via video marketing.”

Black Dog Promotions CEO Scott Kelly said, “Jennifer is a seasoned technology entrepreneur and marketing expert with a long track record of success and we are confident that #vidit will be equally successful. We are excited to be a part of the revolutionary marketing technology”

#vidit was created for any type of business and fits into any sized marketing budget. #vidit provides a solution to get even local businesses noticed online nationally, and with #vidit's help eventually internationally. Any online retailer can now have a national share of the market's voice by instantly being positioned on page one of the Search Engine Results. Better positioning, means more qualified buyers to increase ROI for businesses.

About #vidit:
With one #keyword search, one click and buyers can instantly hear your message. #vidit uses the isolation of a video on YouTube with one #keyword string, leveraging the #hashtag phenomenon to increase response, search queries and social conversation.

The idea behind a hashtag is to get people using the same symbol when talking about a specific topic. The isolated video will also rank at the top of all major search engine results for that #keyword easily found by viewers, listeners and readers.

#vidit will revolutionize #keyword marketing by means of video isolation; optimization and the dominant share of voice the company gains with #vidit’s sticky, social, engaging solution. #vidit can be used for products you sell, services you offer and even contest entries or a special promotion. It’s simple, easy and cost effective for every business’ marketing budget.

About Jennifer Sultzaberger:
Jennifer is known by colleagues and peers as a tech savvy, digital marketing expert with an entrepreneurial spirit. Her background of over 10 years of experience in Digital Marketing and 15 years in traditional marketing, have branded Jennifer as an expert in Search Engine Optimization. Her experience includes other areas such as website design, hosting and management, digital video testimonials, email newsletter and social media campaigns.

Jennifer's entrepreneurial road began in 2006 when she founded Find It Media, a firm specializing in boutique SEO solutions with locations in Harrisburg, Pa., and Phoenix, Ariz. Jennifer also partners with Terry Barnes, Founder of Nusani Corporation developer of EBO, Engine Branding Optimization, patent pending software that helps clients protect their online reputation, manage social media and dominate the search engines using content marketing strategies.

Jennifer’s most recent venture, with an unchallenged “30-Day Money Back Guarantee,” is for the patient pending technology of #vidit. Jennifer used her vast knowledge of Search Engine Optimization (SEO), pay-per-click (PPC) and social media campaigns to develop this latest strategy.

#vidit consists of coupling the power of the “#keyword" and “video” together for isolation on YouTube. Bringing page one Google search results for any size client. Jennifer’s main goal was to provide powerful video solutions while making it affordable for any size business to gain national online exposure no matter the budget. Positioning clients to be found on page one of the SERP is extremely rewarding.

Her creation #vidit, will change how small businesses design their marketing strategies and give them the power to get noticed in the sea of marketing dodge ball.

Jennifer’s experience in working for many industry giants such as Pitney Bowes, AT&T Wireless, Verizon Wireless and The Cobalt Group, an ADP company, has given her the confidence and knowledge to launch #vidit and bring this revolutionary technology to all small businesses in affordable price ranges.

Jennifer is also a professional member of the National Speakers Association has been speaking professionally since 2008, to organizations such as National Automobile Dealers Association, Nichols Campbell Marrow, PA Jewelers Association and PA Professional Realtors Association.

To become a #vidit reseller contact Scott Kelly at scott@blackdogpromotions.com.

Contact:
Scott Kelly
Black Dog Promotions
9920 S. Rural Rd., Ste 108
Tempe, AZ 85284
480-206-3435

http://www.blackdogpromotions.com

Multi Inversiones will Achieve Maximum Quality with AuraPortal BPM

Corporacion Multi Inversiones is a multinational corporation and one of the most important corporate groups in Latin America, with presence in three continents.

Woburn, MA, August 05, 2014 - AURA (www.auraportal.com), a global provider of AuraPortal Business Process Management (BPM) software, has announced the implementation of AuraPortal at Corporacion Multi Inversiones (CMI), which will allow the corporation to undertake a corporate Business Process Management strategy and to develop a culture based on Continuous Improvement for all companies in the group.

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

To balance the rapidly expanding corporate culture, which is based on responsibility and business excellence, CMI are preparing to build a business process infrastructure aligned with the corporation's strategic plans and objectives, aimed at offering their customers optimum product and service quality.

CMI's operations are structured into six divisions: milling (Molinos Modernos), fast dining restaurants (Pollo Campero), livestock operations, renewable energy, real estate and financial services.

About Corporacion Multi Inversiones:
Corporacion Multi Inversiones is a multinational corporation composed of over thirty thousand employees, with presence in three continents. It began operations almost ninety years ago in Guatemala, Central America, and today is one of the most prominent corporations in Latin America.

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

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

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

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

Call for Submissions of Marine Photographs for “Images of Monterey Bay: A Marine Photography Fundraiser Benefiting Whalefest Monterey and Museum of Monterey”

Attention local amateur and professional photographers in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties!

Monterey, CA, August 02, 2014 - Attention local amateur and professional photographers in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties! Grab your cameras and smart phones and head out to the Monterey Wharf and beautiful Monterey Bay on foot, kayak, boat, or paddleboard, etc. and take some photos of our abundant marine life – whether it’s a whale, otter, sea lion or other denizens of the sea.

The Monterey History and Art Association, Museum of Monterey-Stanton Center and Whalefest Monterey have issued a Call for Submissions of marine-themed photographs by local photographers from both Monterey and Santa Cruz counties for its upcoming “Images of Monterey Bay: A Marine Photography Fundraiser.”

Up to thirty photos will be selected and exhibited at the Museum of Monterey, 5 Custom House Plaza, Monterey, CA, beginning Saturday, November 15, 2014 through Sunday January 25, 2015 at Whalefest Monterey 2015 on Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf (January 24-25, 2015). The photos will be subsequently donated to a drawing that benefits both the Museum and Whalefest Monterey. For more information, go to the events page at www.montereywharf.com or www.museumofmonterey.org or call Pete Rerig at (831) 372-2608.

About the “Images of the Monterey Bay” Submission Process:
The subject matter of the photos should be marine life and activities photographed locally. The prints can be any size up to 16x20 inches, black and white or color, and should be mounted on a board so they can be displayed on an easel. On the back of the board should be the photographer’s name and a brief description of the subject matter, where and when taken, and any technical details of the shot.

Initial submissions of up to three photos should be made in digital form to Pete Rerig at pete.rerig@montereyhistory.org . The deadline for submissions is October 15, 2014. Accepted mounted prints need to be delivered to the Museum of Monterey by November 7, 2014. The quality of the prints needs to match that of the electronic entry, especially with regards to resolution. Whalefest Monterey 2015 reserves the right to reject the prints if they don’t meet quality standards.

Up to 30 photos total will be selected by the Museum of Monterey’s curators. They will be displayed on easels throughout the Museum beginning Saturday, November 15, 2014 until the last day of Whalefest on Sunday, January 25, 2015. Many of Whalefest’s lectures, presentations and documentary screenings will take place at the Museum on January 24 and 25. Intellectual property rights remain with the photographer.

While the photos are on exhibit, patrons who visit the Museum of Monterey may purchase tickets for a drawing to win one or more photos of their choice by placing tickets into individual receptacles for each photo. A drawing from each receptacle will be held to determine the winner of that particular photo on January 25, 2015. Winners do not need be present to win. Winners may pick up the prints at the Museum, or have them sent to them, and then shipping and handling charges will apply.

For more information, email kasaylor@ix.netcom.com.

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

Cibo Ristorante Italiano invites you to a special Drivers Reception during Classic Car Week on Friday, August 8th

Check it out at Cibo! The heart of historic downtown Monterey will be transformed into an outdoor motorsports museum when historic race cars line Alvarado Street between 5 and 7 p.m. on Friday, August 8

Monterey, CA, August 01, 2014 - Check it out at Cibo! The heart of historic downtown Monterey will be transformed into an outdoor motorsports museum when historic race cars line Alvarado Street between 5 and 7 p.m. on Friday, August 8 as Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca kicks of the 2014 Monterey Classic Car Week activities.

Be sure to stop by and celebrate Classic Car Week at Cibo Ristorante Italiano, 301 Alvarado Street in Downtown Monterey (831) 649-8151. Between 5 and 7 p.m. on Friday, August 8th, Cibo is hosting a special Classic Car Week Driver Reception that will be open to the public at 5 p.m. with complimentary appetizers until 7 p.m. There will be live jazz music beginning at 5:30 p.m.

The Cibo Bar is open from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m and 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 is open every evening with dinner served from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. On Friday, August 8th, Cibo will offer a Classic Car Week Special that includes a $3 glass of House Wine (red or white) with dinner. For more information, please go to www.cibo.com. For reservations, call (831) 649-8151.

About Classic Car Week
Classic Car Week Takes Hold of the Monterey Peninsula Historic Race Cars Rev it up from Track to City Streets.

The race car show lines the street allowing visitors the chance to freely walk among the race cars, take pictures beside them and ask questions of their owners. This event marks the start of an exhilarating week on the central coast and allows visitors to gain an up-close look at the weekend’s biggest automotive stars. In addition to its motorsports attractions, the race car show will also feature raffle prizes, music and driver interviews.

With the support of the Old Monterey Business Association, the show features a select group of classic race cars that will participate in the week’s cornerstone event, the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. Under police escort, this band of historic race cars will travel from the race track, down Highway 68 and finish their journey in beautiful Old Monterey where they will be on display for the downtown community.

This year’s race car show will feature a diverse lineup of race cars, such as a 1956 Lotus Eleven, 1965 Alfa Romeo GTA, 1968 Bizzarrini Strada and a 1963 Corvette Stingray.

For race participants it is an opportunity to showcase their cars to the community in a festive environment filled with families. Part competition and part pageantry, racing history comes to life as cars from nearly every era grace Mazda Raceway August 14-17 at the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion. The cars, which are selected for their historical significance, authenticity and period-correctness, are divided into 15 classes, based on type of car, displacement and era of origin. In commemoration of its centennial, Maserati is this year’s featured marque and will be represented by a number of rarely-seen models competing on the track.

For more information on the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion or to purchase tickets call 800-327-7322 or visit www.MazdaRaceway.com.

About Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca:
Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca was established in 1957. The world-renowned raceway has been operated since its inception by the Sports Car Racing Association of the Monterey Peninsula (SCRAMP), a not-for-profit 501c(4) corporation. Each race season, SCRAMP donates its net proceeds to the volunteer groups that help put on the races.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Monterey's Old Fisherman’s Wharf Association Continues “Wharf Walks at Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf” on Saturday, August 2nd with a Focus on the Maritime History of the Monterey Bay

Monterey's Old Fisherman’s Wharf Association continues to team up with noted Monterey Bay Fisheries Historian and author, Tim Thomas, who is offering monthly “Wharf Walks”

Monterey, CA, July 31, 2014 - Monterey's Old Fisherman’s Wharf Association continues to team up with noted Monterey Bay Fisheries Historian and author, Tim Thomas, who is offering monthly “Wharf Walks” -Walking Tours at Old Fisherman’s Wharf in Monterey (www.montereywharf.com) on the first Saturday of every month from 10:00 AM – Noon. Wharf Walks continues on Saturday, August 2nd with "Monterey Old Fisherman's Wharf Walk: Focus on the Maritime History of the Monterey Bay." Tours meet at the head of Old Fisherman’s Wharf (near the pink “Harbor House” store, #1 Old Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey. Advance reservations are required by calling Tim Thomas at (831) 521-3304 or via email timsardine@yahoo.com. The tour is for ages 10–adult only and the cost is $20 for adults and kids are $15 (10-15 years). Group Rates are also available.

For thousands of years people have made their living fishing the Monterey Bay, beginning with the Rumsien Ohlone, the Native People of the Monterey area. From abalone to rockfish, everything was fished and utilized and the Monterey Bay was a multi-cultural stew, made up of whalers from the Azores, squid fishermen from China, salmon fishermen and abalone divers from Japan, and Sicilians fishing sardines in the “dark of the moon.” This entertaining tour of Old Fisherman’s Wharf and the waterfront will take us back in time to explore the history of the Monterey Wharf, early history of the Monterey waterfront, The Rumsien/Ohlone People--Monterey's first fishermen, the abalone industry, whaling the bay and of course, the legendary sardine industry. Discover some of the people and cultures of Monterey’s colorful past and hear fascinating stories about Old Fisherman’s Wharf and those who worked and walked there. Learn more about the sardine and squid industry, too.

Tim Thomas, fourth-generation native of the Monterey area, is a popular speaker and lively tour guide. For 16 years, he was historian and curator for the Monterey Maritime & History Museum and has worked with the Monterey Bay Aquarium, California State Parks and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. He is author of "The Abalone King of Monterey: 'Pop' Ernest Doelter," “The Japanese on the Monterey Peninsula” and co-author of “Monterey’s Waterfront.”

For more information, go to www.montereywharf.com

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

84th Annual Monterey History and Art's La Merienda event to be held on June 6, 2015

Save the Date! Celebrate the City of Monterey's 245th birthday with a very special barbecue, mariachis, pinatas and a festive "Californio" party in the historic Memory Garden on Custom House Plaza on Saturday, June 6, 2015.

Monterey, CA, July 31, 2014 - Save the Date! Celebrate the City of Monterey's 245th birthday with a very special barbecue, mariachis, pinatas and a festive "Californio" party in the historic Memory Garden on Custom House Plaza on Saturday, June 6, 2015. La Merienda (Spanish word for picnic) includes great food and entertainment, a procession, and much, much more. This community event celebrates the founding of the City of Monterey in June 1770 when Father Junipero Serra and Captain Gaspar de Portola celebrated with a picnic overlooking the Monterey Bay.

A Very Unique Barbecue! 
La Merienda features a festive barbecue prepared and served by community leaders and local chefs. It includes a choice of tri tip steak or chicken, salad, beans, garlic bread, followed by dessert, a festively rose-adorned cake.

Host a Party Within Our Party!
Invite friends, don a costume, decorate a table, and have fun at this festive event! Or… just come for the celebration, join a table and make some new friends!

Come one, come all!  Join elected officials, military leaders, and local dignitaries at this not-to-be-missed event! Children and grandchildren of attendees 4 to11 years old may celebrate with their very own "La Merienda para los Ninos "held concurrently at the MHAA/Stanton Center, featuring a full program of activities including participation in the cake ceremony.

Monterey History & Art Association has hosted this party for the last 84 years and all proceeds go towards supporting Monterey's history and arts programs. For further information and to purchase tickets, go to www.museumofmonterey.org or call Carol Todd at (831) 372-4445.

What: 84th Annual La Merienda Celebration - City of Monterey’s 244th birthday party, is a colorful fiesta barbecue of delicious foods, wine, beer, soft drinks, gallant dons and donas, lovely senoritas, lively music and festive dance.

When: Saturday, June 6, 2015 from 11:15 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Where: Memory Garden, 20 Custom House Plaza, Monterey
Tickets: www.montereyhistory.org or call Carol Todd at 831-372-4445 This outstanding event attracts over 500 people.

Information: For more information about Monterey History and Art Association and the Museum of Monterey at Stanton Center, go to www.montereyhistory.org

About La Merienda
La Merienda, Monterey’s birthday party, is a colorful fiesta barbecue of delicious foods, wine, beer, soft drinks, gallant dons and donas, lovely senoritas, lively music and festive dance.  La Merienda (the Spanish term for afternoon picnic or mid-day meal) re-enacts an elegant 18th century fiesta. It celebrates the founding of the town of Monterey on June 3, 1770 when Padre Junípero Serra, father of the California missions, and Captain Gaspar de Portola, a Spanish military leader, joined forces to establish the pueblo of Monterey, California’s first Capital. Their meeting also honored the founding of the “Royal Presidio Chapel”, which today is known as San Carlos Cathedral. After the ceremonies that day, everyone sat down for a picnic under a large oak tree near their ship, the San Antonio, which rested in the harbor.

The first modern Merienda was celebrated in 1929, two years before the formation of the Monterey History and Art Association. A ceremony at Colton Hall and a small luncheon at the Memory Garden marked the occasion. It was presided over by Carmel Martin and Harry Greene. The next year, 350 people joined Carmel Martin, who again acted as Master of Ceremonies, in the Memory Garden and once again celebrated Monterey’s birthday. The Monterey History and Art Association has celebrated this important early California historic event every year since the Association was established in 1931 (except one year during World War II).

La Merienda can be described as a “party within a party” with uniquely decorated hosted tables.

La Favorita/Doncellas/La Duena
Each year since La Merienda was founded, a local young woman with historic connections to Monterey is chosen as La Favorita, and with her lovely court, reigns over this unique celebration of Monterey’s history. Two other young women are selected to serve as her attendants (“Doncellas”). The women who are chosen for these roles, accompanied by a chaperone (“La Duena”) can trace their ancestry back through Monterey history many generations. These attractive young women dress in traditional white Spanish gowns and mantillas (scarfs) and greet guests, cut the birthday cake, and hold court at the celebration. The 2014 La Merienda Court included Kaitlyn Williams- La Favorita; Lauren Allen- Doncella; Rosemary "Rose" Russo- Doncella and Edith (Edie) Adams McDonald- Duena. The Cake Bearers will be Nicholas Williams, Brother of Kaitlyn Williams, and David Brown.

About the event
The event includes a delicious barbecue and lively entertainment, as well as a huge 75-pound birthday cake beautifully decorated with fresh roses. The cake is carried in by local young men (“cake-bearers”), and is sliced with the sword of Colonel Roger S. Fitch, the first President of the Monterey History and Art Association. This event has been sponsored annually by the Monterey History and Art Association for over 80 years. Members of Monterey History and Art Association serve as voluntary hosts and hostesses in period costumes at colorfully decorated tables. All guests are also welcome to dress in 18th century costume.

The recipient of Monterey History and Art Association’s most prestigious award, the Laura Bride Powers Award, is announced at La Merienda. This award is named after the woman who is credited with conceiving both the idea of the Association and the Merienda celebration, which antedated MHAA’s founding. Mrs. Powers was the Curator of the Custom House and First Theater and an ardent student of California history.

The colorful celebration is held in the Memory Gardens, located near the Custom House Plaza in historic downtown Monterey behind the Portola Plaza Hotel. Festivities begin at 11:15 A. M. with dancing. The doors open to Memory Gardens where the aromas of the delicious barbeque greet the guests. Day-long entertainment includes music by Mariachis and a procession of local and international dignitaries and costumed ladies and gentlemen, reenacting an old tradition. The gaily-decorated tables are hosted by more than 50 MHAA volunteers, who provide hospitality to the guests. After the steak, chicken and bean barbeque (served by another 25 well-known local volunteers) the traditional Merienda birthday cake is paraded around the Garden and then cut and served with much ceremony.

The La Merienda Barbecue is always served by well-known community members. In past years, La Merienda Barbecue servers have included Peter Coniglio, who coordinates this part of the event, Leon Panetta, Dan Albert, Dan Baldwin, Ted Balestreri, Sr., Teddy Balestreri, Bill Curtis, Marc and Eric DelPiero, Jay Hudson, George Kodama, Nino Palma, Dave Potter, Chris Shake, Carmelo Tringali , Russ Harris, Bert Cutino, Tony Leyva, Bob Masarro,  Sal Ferrante, Dino Ferrante and John Lotz. The 2014 La Merienda crew will be determined closer to the event date!

La Merienda sponsorships, donations and other services help to defray the cost of this unique not-to-be-missed Monterey celebration. All proceeds above the cost of the Merienda itself go to Monterey History and Art Association’s support and maintenance of the Museum of Monterey at Stanton Center, Casa Serrano, the Doud House and the Mayo Hayes O’Donnell Library. To become a sponsor or donor, please call Eric Sand, President of the Monterey History & Art Association, at (831) 372-7788 or email eric.sand@icloud.com.

Additional food history of Early California(Provided by the Monterey Public Library from the book, Early California Hospitality by Ana Packman)

Ana Packman describes Spanish colonists as typically carrying with them dried meats, beans, corn, and a short while later, the native people introduced them to wild herbs, roots, seeds. But I was unable to find mention of the food served at this early event in 1770 but in The March of Portola by Zoeth Eldredge, she mentions that native people had a few days earlier left meat, fish, and shell fish skewered on downturned arrows near Pt. Pinos.  It's probable that other provisions included tortillas and beans.

Within a decade, the Spanish colonists would have had more variety in the menu.  Packman describes La Merienda (The Afternoon Collation) as such, "After the siesta, in mid-afternoon, rested and refreshed, and just before starting out to finish the day's labor, the Californian partook of la merienda, which was a light luncheon of sweets, sweet curd cheese, ripe black olives, wafers, and pastries with cha (the native herb tea), chocolate, or coffee..."  
"Any of the following combinations was served as refreshments:  Cha y puchas (Wild herb tea and short cakes), Agua-fresca (Wine, orange blossom or chia and sweetened water), Tostadas (crisp corn wafers), Dulce de membrillo (Quince conserve).

Packman also describes a Comida de Campo, or picnic dinner, which is a little more akin to the foods that might be had at today's Merienda:  Carne asada (fresh meat broiled over embers); Sarsa de tomate y chile verde (Tomato and green chile relish); Frijoles (beans); Dulce de calabaza (candied pumpkins); Emanadas de calabaza, de frijoles, y de carne (pumpkin-filled turnovers, spiced beans, and minced-meat); Tortillas de harina (Wheat-flour tortillas; Vino tinto (red wine).

About Monterey History and Art Association:
From its founding in 1931, the Monterey History and Art Association’s primary mission has been to help preserve the irreplaceable reminders of Monterey’s colorful heritage. Over the past eight decades, the Association has worked closely with the City of Monterey, the California Department of Parks and Recreation, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and other agencies. As a result, more old adobes have been preserved and restored in Monterey than anywhere else in California.

The Association instituted Monterey’s historic landmark program and created the Path of History which guides visitors to historic sites in old Monterey. It possesses extensive collections of furnishings, paintings, photographs, costumes, books, manuscripts, and other artifacts, and is the parent organization of the following Monterey institutions: Museum of Monterey at Stanton Center, Casa Serrano, and the Mayo Hayes O’Donnell Library.

Monterey History and Art Association has been a guiding force in Monterey’s vital historic stewardship. The guarding of Monterey’s precious community assets and the preservation and presentation of its historical heritage for future enjoyment has been made possible by citizens who care and give generously of their time and resources.

The Monterey History and Art Association, which operates the Museum of Monterey at Stanton Center, Mayo Hayes O’Donnell Library, Casa Serrano, and Doud House, is the oldest cultural institution on the Monterey Peninsula. It began its work 83 years ago, and is still going strong today as a leader in the preservation of Monterey’s artifacts, historic properties, and local art.

The Museum of Monterey at Stanton Center is dedicated to being a leader in models of history and social studies education and a regional leader in educational programming. The Museum implements an array of education-centered programs including outreach and special events.

Programs engage the community in innovative and dynamic ways while providing opportunities for life-long learning. To support these goals, the Museum is committed to the creation of a strong educational program with an infrastructure that supports effective services. They are dedicated to increasing the potential for visual and historic literacy, creativity, and critical thinking skills. Topically, the Museum of Monterey at Stanton Center focuses on the Monterey Region as a community tied to the land and inspires the appreciation for the beauty and complexity of its rich history.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Entrepreneurial Evangelist Patrick Kucera on the Cover of Opportunist Magazine

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Patrick Kucera: www.patrickskucera.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

http://www.booksbybob.com

John Collard Honored With Maryland’s Most Admired CEO Award

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AT A GLANCE:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mountainsong Galleries Announces it’s Final Show for 2014

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

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

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

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

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

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

Media Interviews Available Upon Request

Additional Photography Available Upon Request

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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