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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

World-class musicians make Monterey their home.

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

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

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

2016 Line Up Announced:

Featured Bands:

· Royal Society Jazz Orchestra

· Uptown Lowdown jazz Band

· Titan Hot Seven

· Carl Sonny Leyland Trio

· Ivory & Gold

· High Sierra Jazz band

· Blue Street Jazz Band

· Tom Rigney & Flambeau

· Yve Evans Trio

· Crescent Katz

Guest Artist:

· Jeff Barnhart

· Danny Coots

· Brian Holland

· Bob Draga

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

· Badges Early Bird All-Event Badge $95

· Early Bird Badge for Hotel Pkg $95

· All-Event badge $105

· Friday Day Badge $45

· Saturday Day Badge $6o

· Sunday Day Badge $45

· Individual Patron Package $240

· Family Patron Package $600

· Swing Dance Party $25

· We3 Concert $30

· Dance & We3 $50

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

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

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

Hofsas House Hotel Announces its 2016 Packages

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA, December 08, 2015 -- In Carmel-by-the-Sea, the Theis family is celebrating more than six decades of European hospitality at its beautiful Bavarian-inspired Hofsas House Hotel, which is as charming as the town itself. With firm roots in the past, the family is looking toward the future by keeping abreast of guests’ every need.

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

Carmel-by-the-Sea Celebrates 100 Years:

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

Get Artsy Package

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

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

www.carmelarttours.com ,800-979-3370

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hofsas House Background:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

http://www.csg-pr.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Special guest and panel lineup is subject to change.

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

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

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

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

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

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

2016 Big Sur Foragers Festival Announces Its Fungus Face-Off Partners

Tickets on Sale Now!

Big Sur, CA, November 25, 2015 - Big Sur Health Center, a non-profit organization offering local, quality healthcare to the Big Sur community, announced January 15-17, 2016 as the dates of its annual Big Sur Foragers Festival. Held in Big Sur along California’s central coast, the festival is a weekend-long celebration featuring an amazing array of wild foods, world-class wine and beer, expert-led foraging hikes and a friendly chef competition with celebrity judges. This year’s partners include Ventana Big Sur, longtime host of the Fungus Face-Off and the Grand Chef dinner, along with a new strategic partner, Post Ranch Inn, which will host several different events.

The event has traditionally served as a fundraiser for the Big Sur Health Center. The community's non-profit health center will receive the proceeds from the foraging events to continue to support the presence of local health care services in the Big Sur area.

The three day festival affords Big Sur area restaurants the opportunity to host the culinary expertise of notable chefs who will be preparing unique fare ranging from rustic to elegant, paired alongside the central coast region's amazing selection of wine and beer. Guest Chef Suzette Gresham, Acquerello’s co-owner and Executive Chef from San Francisco’s Acquerello, will join Ventana’s own Chef Paul Corsentino to offer a memorable Grand Chef Dinner.

Saturday January 16th events include:

· Saturday morning - This year there will be two "Wild Foraging Walk and Talk" - one at Pfeiffer State Park (level beginner) and one through the Big Sur Wilderness (level intermediate). Cost per hike $35.00. (Saturday, January 16th 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.)

· Saturday afternoon – The “Fungus Face-Off" on the deck at Ventana Big Sur from 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm. Cost per person is $60. A friendly competition among some of the area's notable chefs featuring chanterelles and other fabulous fungi, along with a variety of wild foraged foods.. Attendees also have an opportunity to cast their vote for "People's Choice". (Saturday, January 16th 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.)

•  Winery and Brewery Partners Include:

* Morgan Winery

* Comanche Cellars

* Holman Ranch

* Bernardus Winery

* Mesa Del Sol

* Filipponi Ranch/Kelly McCleary/Peter Cron

* Ventana Vineyards

* Scheid Vineyards

* McIntyre Wines

* Chappellet

* Mad Otter Ales

•  Restaurant, Chef and Tasting Partners Include:

* Chef Paul Corsentino, Ventana Big Sur

* Chef Jon Cox, Post Ranch

* Chef Tim Wood, Carmel Valley Ranch

* Chef Steve Johnson, TusCA Ristorante

* Chef Brendan Esons , Big Sur Roadhouse

* Chef Matt Farmer, Coast Gallery

* Chef Phillip Burrus, Esalen Institute

* Chef Jacob Burell, Big Sur Bakery

* Miguel Vargas, Fernwood

* Adan Moeda Chavez, River Inn

* Carmel Valley’s Quail and Olive (taste organic olive oils and vinegars)

· A silent auction full of culinary delights, hotel stays, tickets to explore the area, art and so much more will take place during the food and wine sampling. There will be more than 60 items this year! Purchase raffle tickets for $5 per ticket of $25 for 6 tickets. Enter to win your choice of 7 culinary delights or hotel packages! Raffle package values begin at $200 to $700! Tickets available for purchase at the event.

· Saturday Evening: The Big Sur Foragers Festival announces its Grand Chef Dinner at the Restaurant at Ventana Big Sur. The multi-course dinner, destined to be a memorable feast paired with an incredible wine selection, costs $175.00 per person (as of December 1). Early bird tickets are on sale now through November 30th for $150.00. Guest Chef Suzette Gresham, Acquerello’s co-owner and Executive Chef, will join Ventana’s Chef Paul Corsentino to offer an unforgettable dining experience. (Saturday, January 16th, 2016 beginning at 6:00 pm).

Tickets on sale now http://bigsurforagersfestival2016.eventbrite.com

For event details and information on other Foragers Festival weekend activities, including venues at Post Ranch Inn, please visit our website: www.bigsurforagersfestival.org or follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/bigsurforagersfestival.

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

Why Our Silicon Valley Lifestyle is Killing Us

In his new book, “Lack of Sufficient SLEEP MATTERS” Roger W. Washington, M.D. Reveals Root Cause of Illness

Santa Clara, CA, November 16, 2015 - The new book, “Lack of Sufficient SLEEP MATTERS: Decode The Root Cause of Your Illness,” by Roger W. Washington, M.D., decodes the root cause of illness he discovered in California’s Silicon Valley, where according to a new report “a toxic cocktail of poor nutrition, sleep deprivation, and stress….is causing an epidemic of advanced aging.”

The lifestyle of coping with stress and responsibility by sleeping less to do more is typical of Silicon Valley workers and is becoming ubiquitous across society. Sleeping less is leading to obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure and heart attacks, as well as a host of immune disorders that we do not ordinarily think of as being related to lack of sleep, such as breast cancer, blood clots, infections and rashes. Miscarriage, the premenstrual syndrome, migraines, depression even childhood colic are directly attributable to lack of sleep and what Dr. Washington calls our A.C.C.E.L.E.R.A.T.E.D. lifestyle.

Working as a family physician in Silicon Valley, Dr. Washington sees all these problems and more. In “Lack of Sufficient SLEEP MATTERS,” he takes us into his practice with patient stories showing how he listens with great curiosity about their activities, states of mind, and emotions leading up to when they became ill. He shows us how a crash and burn pattern develops and then startles us with the common threads he found across all sorts of illnesses. When he traces these illnesses back to his patients’ own habit patterns of dealing with life’s pressures by borrowing energy to accelerate their daytime activities, we are floored to find an unpaid sleep debt at the nexus of them all.

In “Lack of Sufficient SLEEP MATTERS: Decode The Root Cause of Your Illness,” Dr. Washington gives readers the tools to understand:

* Why sickness predictably occurs after we slowdown from demanding activities, not during

* How lack of sufficient sleep (LOSS) is the trigger for diseases such as migraines, IBS, PMS, fibromyalgia, and neuropathy

* How the onset of diabetes, which is supposedly genetic and environmental, could be delayed or even prevented with proper sleep patterns

* A simple algebraic equation to predict and prevent becoming ill

* A set of Sick Questions to ask to isolate and pinpoint behaviors that lead to illness

* The type of sleep needed to achieve good health and longevity

About the Author: A Stanford Medical School graduate and Academy of Family Physicians Fellow, Roger W. Washington has answered the question, “Doctor, Why Am I Sick?” for 30 years. In his first book, “Lack of Sufficient SLEEP MATTERS,” Dr. Washington decodes the root cause of illness he discovered in California’s Silicon Valley, where sacrificing sleep is the norm.

To download a free chapter of Dr. Washington’s book, go to www.SmartURL.it/FreeChapter. For more information, visit the online press kit at www.SleepMatters.OnlinePressKit247.com and the public site, www.SleepMattersTheBook.com. For interviews contact Executive Publicist Michelle Tennant Nicholson, 828-749-3200, Michelle@WasabiPublicity.com.

Contact:
Michelle Tennant Nicholson
Wasabi Publicity, Inc.
Santa Clara, CA
828-749-3200
Michelle@WasabiPublicity.com
http://www.SleepMatters.OnlinePressKit247.com

Dr Melanie Joy among the Speakers at the ETHIIC Round Table: When Ethics Meet Economy

On Thursday, November 19, 2015, 9:30am 11:00am, Smart City Expo World Congress, Congress Area Meeting Room 1, Fira De Barcelona, Gran Via Venue, Barcelona, Spain.

Barcelona, Spain, November 16, 2015 - On Thursday November 19, 2015 a panel of speakers will meet at the Smart City Expo World Congress for a round table on Ethics and Economy.

The event has been organized by ETHIIC, the multisectorial network that creates connections between consumers and ethical, sustainable companies.

The focus of discussion will be the fact that people are increasingly better informed about environmental issues, human rights and animal rights. Consumers are ready to take steps to make a difference, and that’s why ethical products and services are booming and ready to go mainstream.

How easy is living in an ethical way for those who want things to be fast, ready and cool? How easy is “just giving it a try” for those who are potentially sensitive but a bit too lazy to try something new unless is it right there in front of them and presented in a very appealing way? Are public administrations and companies ready to meet this new latent need and make ethical services and products easily available to everyone? Can we still afford to live in a non-ethical, non-sustainable way?

The ETHIIC round table seeks discussion on the importance of re-directing the money flow from un-ethical businesses toward a sustainable economy that respects humans, animals and the environment according to a paradigm developed for urban areas.

A recent Nielsen survey reveals that an ever growing number of consumers (55% in 2014) are willing to pay extra for products and services from companies committed to positive social and environmental impact.

A growing number of celebrities invites their followers to live in a more ethical way. Sir Paul McCartney: “If anyone wants to save the planet, all they have to do is just stop eating meat. That's the single most important thing you could do. It's staggering when you think about it. Vegetarianism takes care of so many things in one shot: ecology, famine, cruelty”

No wonder the vegetarian/vegan trend is burgeoning worldwide. For instance, Eurispes forecasts that 50% of the Italian population will go vegetarian or vegan by 2050.

The United Nations (2014 population report) stresses that cities may offer opportunities to expand access to sustainable product and services for large numbers of people in an economically efficient manner and allow them to enjoy healthier lives overall. This is precisely one of the topics that will be discussed.

• Dr. Melanie Joy, Ph.D., Ed.M.
Harvard-educated psychologist, professor of psychology and sociology, celebrated speaker, and president of Beyond Carnism, Melanie Joy is the author of the award-winning international best seller Why We Love Dogs, Eat Pigs, and Wear Cows, with translations soon to be published in 11 languages and top book pick by television host Ellen DeGeneres. Dr. Joy was the eighth recipient of the Institute of Jainology’s Ahimsa Award for her work on global non violence (past recipients include the Dalai Lama and Nelson Mandela).

Contact:
Impact Hub Barcelona - Patricia
ETHIIC, Plaza Real 18/2°
Barcelona, Spain
+34935951509
info@ethiic.net
http://www.ethiic.net

2016 Big Sur Foragers Festival Announces Grand Chef Dinner

Suzette Gresham, Acquerello’s co-owner and Executive Chef

Big Sur, CA, November 13, 2015 - The Big Sur Foragers Festival announces its Grand Chef Dinner at Ventana Big Sur The "Foragers Dinner" at the Restaurant at Ventana will be held Saturday, January 16th, 2016 beginning at 6:00 pm. The multi-course dinner, destined to be a memorable feast paired with an incredible wine selection, costs $175.00 per person (as of December 1). Early bird tickets are on sale now through November 30th for $150.00.

Guest Chefs have been announced! Suzette Gresham, Acquerello’s co-owner and Executive Chef along with Paul Corsentino from Ventana Big Sur.

Suzette Gresham, Acquerello’s co-owner and Executive Chef

 

Suzette Gresham, Acquerello’s co-owner and Executive Chef, has had a profound impact on the culinary world over the course of her over 35 years in the kitchen. Her career is one that has been punctuated by numerous awards and accolades from both local and international institutions. In 1980, she was the first female apprentice to be on the U.S. Culinary Olympic team, returning as an individual competitor 4 years later, and taking home the bronze metal. She holds the coveted Antonin Careme award, and was honored to become the first Junior Member of the ACF, later being voted to the Board of Directors for three terms. Acquerello has held a spot every year on Michael Bauer’s Top 100 Bay Area Restaurant List since it’s inception 19 years ago. The restaurant has received a Michelin star every year since 2007 until 2014 when it was awarded a second star. Gresham is only the third woman in the U.S. to hold that title. While these prestigious achievements are a source of pride for Gresham, they are not the driving force behind her career, food –above all else is what keeps her in the kitchen. Gresham produces more than just meals at Acquerello, she and her team provide experiences for the diner that are emblematic of what they could expect in high-end dining in Italy.

She does this through her dedication to elevated hospitality, the execution of soulful and thoughtful dishes, and a mission to educate and inspire all those who come through the door. “Materia prima”, or quality ingredients, along with seasonality, tradition, and philosophy are the driving forces behind Gresham’s style. She believes that Italian cuisine has a timelessness that doesn’t rely on trends. She remains current, however, by listening to diners, maintaining an awareness of her marketplace, and revitalizing forgotten classics through interpretive applications. Just as ingredients have been a pillar in her cooking, education has been a hallmark in her legacy. Gresham strives to make Acquerello all about opportunity. Her tenacious attitude, sincerity, undeniable skill, and constant appetite for knowledge are what helped her rise through the ranks. She didn’t realize she was a pioneer at the time; she just wanted to learn and progress in her career. Gresham has made her mark in the industry by highlighting the importance of culinary fundamentals in her team, stressing the importance of where you begin as a chef. It is with this philosophy in mind that Gresham has successfully passed 63 interns through her kitchen in the 26 years of Acquerello’s existence. It is her belief that without a strong foundation, in the long run you will short change yourself because of what you don’t know. It becomes exponentially harder to create new, bold flavor profiles or interpret the classics if you don’t first understand why techniques came to be, how traditions were started, and what role ingredients play in the regions from which they hail. “If you love your craft, it is your duty to learn all you can and then share that knowledge with the next generation. I relate to other chefs young and old – at the end of the day we are all just cooks.”

Paul Corsentino, Executive Chef, The Restaurant at Ventana Inn

A native of Illinois and a graduate of the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco, Corsentino’s first foray into the kitchen led him to mk The Restaurant in Chicago in 2002. In 2004, Corsentino moved to New York where he worked at acclaimed restaurants such as Bouley, Country, Alta and Rouge Tomate prior to his career defining position as the Executive Chef at the National Bar & Dining Room.

Corsentino met Zakarian when he became Sous Chef at Country in 2005, where he was a member of the opening team. In 2010, Corsentino reunited with Zakarian as the Executive Chef at The National Bar & Dining Room. During the 3 years at the National, Corsentino landed runner up for Eater.com’s “Sexiest New York Chef.” He then assisted Zakarian in winning the 4th Season of Food Network’s “The Next Iron Chef, Super Chefs” in December 2011.

The move to California in 2014 was inspired by the dream to cook in the seasons, the quest for fresh local ingredients and, of course, sunny winters. Corsentino joined Commune Hotels and Resorts as the Executive Chef at Ventana Inn & Spa in Big Sur. The food is representative of the location featuring ingredients such as local foraged mushrooms and wild caught fresh yellowfin tuna. In his first year at Ventana, Corsentino has put the restaurant on the map as a food destination in its own right.

Purchase Your Tickets Today For The Big Sur Foragers Festival 2016

Save the dates of January 15th through 17th, 2016. Big Sur area restaurants will host the culinary expertise of notable chefs preparing unique fare from rustic to elegant, paired with the region's amazing selection of wines and beers.

The event also serves as a fundraiser for the Big Sur Health Center. The community's non-profit health center will receive the proceeds from the foraging events to support the continued presence of local health care services.

In addition to the Grand Chef Dinner, the event schedule includes:

New events for 2016 include:

Friday, January 15th:
• 5:30 Friday evening - Cocktail reception and fungus presentation by Louie Schwartzberg followed by 5 course tasting menu prepared by Chef John Cox with wine pairings selected by Sierra Mar wine director Dominique DaCruz. $500 per person. Limited to 22 tickets. Reservations to be made thru Post Ranch Reservations at 800 527 2200.

Sunday, January 17th:
• 11 a.m. Sunday morning - Property forage hike and lunch with Chef John Cox. Guest will enjoy an exclusive property wide tour of Post Ranch Led by Executive Chef John Cox followed by a 3 course lunch with wine pairing featuring items foraged on property and local wines. Limited to 16 people at $200 per person. Reservations made at 800 527 2200.This hike is weather permitting.
Back by Popular Demand:

Saturday, January 16th:
• Saturday, January 16th: This year there will be two "Wild Foraging Walk and Talk" - one at Pfeiffer State Park (level beginner) and one through the Big Sur Wilderness (level intermediate). Cost per hike $35.00. (Saturday, January 16th 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.)

• Saturday, January 16th "Fungus Face-Off" on the deck at Ventana Big Sur. "Fungus Face-Off" on the deck at Ventana Big Sur! "Fungus Face-Off" at Ventana Big Sur from 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm. Cost per person is $60. A friendly competition among some of the area's notable chefs featuring chanterelles and other fabulous fungi. Attendees also have an opportunity to cast their vote for "People's Choice". (Saturday, January 16th 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.)

• A silent auction full of culinary delights, hotel stays, tickets to explore the area, art and so much more will take place during the food and wine sampling. There will be more than 60 items this year! Purchase raffle tickets for $5 per ticket of $25 for 6 tickets. Enter to win your choice of 7 culinary delights or hotel packages! Raffle package values begin at $200 to $700! Tickets available for purchase at the event.

Sunday, January 17th:
• Forager's Kitchen: Master Class in Cooking - Foraged Foods at Home at the Big Sur Lodge: A fun, fast-paced panel of some of Big Sur and Carmel's best chefs known for cooking with such foraged foods as chanterelles, sorrel, nettles and natural sea salt. Participants will get to taste the foods demonstrated by the chefs and take new recipes home. Chefs to be announced. (Sunday, January 17 - 2 to 4 pm) - Tickets will be on sale December 1st. Only 50 spaces available.

Tickets on sale now http://bigsurforagersfestival2016.eventbrite.com

For event details and venue information, visit www.bigsurforagersfestival.org or follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/bigsurforagersfestival.

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

Fam Trip Invitation to Experience Cruises and Tours in Vietnam at ITB ASIA

The all-inclusive Emperor Cruises Nha Trang is the most authentic new cruising experience in Vietnam in 2015

Hanoi, Vietnam, November 11, 2015 - Luxury Travel Ltd. is offering travel professionals fam trips to experience Vietnam and take on the role of a Vietnam travel specialist at ITB Asia.

The programme is designed for travel sellers and they join what the company claims are its “bestselling tours starting in Hanoi and ending in Saigon.” as a holiday to Vietnam depart on the first of every month, with an optional extension to Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia or a Vietnam beach resort and enjoy cruising experience in Nha Trang.

“Our private fam trip is an opportunity to become familiar with our luxury tour programme …. Tour operators receive a certificate acknowledging them as Vietnam travel expert after each trip,” said Luxury Travel founder and CEO Pham Ha.

Luxury travelers now have the opportunity to cruise in Nha Trang Bay, not just in Halong Bay and along the Mekong. Being recognized as the pearl of the South Central Coast of Vietnam, Nha Trang has become one of the most famous tourist destinations in Vietnam because of its natural beauty and superb climate with 300 days of sunshine.

According to this travel guru, the all-inclusive Emperor Cruises Nha Trang is the most authentic new cruising experience in Vietnam in 2015. Emperor Cruises (www.emperorcruises.com) brings travelers to the bay to gaze at the sunset, sip on cocktails, and enjoy romantic dinners while cruising on one of the 29 most beautiful bays in the world.

Fam trip bookings are available online, but for detailed information travel agents can contact Luxury Travel’s sales and marketing director, David Nguyen, at sales@luxurytravels.asia.

The trips are not free initially, but they can be if the travel agent books a client after completing the trip. Travel agents can pay by credit card. The full amount is required upon confirmation and is refundable on completion of the first booking with Luxury Travel before 31 December 2016. The fee for spouses and travelling companions is non-refundable.

Familiarisation trips are available only to tour operators. Life partners can join at the same rate or with a nominal supplement.

To be eligible travel professionals must supply name, position at the company, national tourism member, ABTA, ASTA or PATA member code if any and a confirmation fax number or business email and website. Trade visitors can discuss further at ITB Asia in Singapore about the fam and Emperor Cruises in Nha Trang, Vietnam.

All trips are subject to limited availability on specific travel dates, as mentioned, and other restrictions. Reservations must be filed at least one month before departure date.

Vietnam-based Luxury Travel sells holidays in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Thailand

About Luxury Travel Ltd.
With a new heart logo and the slogan, touching hearts, Vietnam-based Luxury Travel Ltd. (www.luxurytravels.asia) is a long established Asian specialist in the art of travel and serves today’s most sophisticated travelers with luxury privately guided and fully bespoke touring and Vietnam vacation packages with extension to Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Thailand. Luxury Travel Ltd. has won numerous travel awards for excellent performance, including the most recent Guide Awards: “Asia’s leading luxury tour operator touching hearts”.

Contact:
Huyen Nguyen
Luxury Travel Ltd
05 Nguyen Truong To Street
Ba Dinh Dist, Hanoi 84444
84.4.62733087 Ext 122
http://www.luxurytravelvietnam.com

The Humble Grapes to Release New Single “Brooklyn Bridge” on October 30th Along With Upcoming Music Video November 4th

The Humble Grapes are preparing for the release of their new single and music video, “Brooklyn Bridge.”

Los Angeles, CA, November 09, 2015 – The Humble Grapes are preparing for the release of their new single and music video, “Brooklyn Bridge.” The vibrant duo, which consists of vocalist, songwriter, producer Brie Capone and artist, songwriter, pianist, producer David Kaufman, have gained recognition in the indie circuit and are quickly rising to success.

“This band is a real breath of fresh air. Brie’s voice is amazing and blends perfectly with David’s masterful skills on the piano to create something truly unique.” – Muzic Notez

The new single co-produced by The Humble Grapes and Ami Kozak paints a perfect picture of a rocky relationship with its alluring melody and Capone’s soulful vocals. The picturesque melody coming from Kaufman helps envision the tumultuous relationship. Capone’s captivating voice also helps emulate the emotion behind the relationship making this a raw, unforgettable follow up to “Young and Alive” in anticipation for their upcoming EP out January 2016.

“Brooklyn Bridge’ is a song about realizing that you can fall in love with some one and truly care for them, but you’re painfully aware that you're on a different path than them,” states Capone.

“Brooklyn Bridge” will be available October 30th followed by the release of the music video on November 4th. Directed by the talented Benjamin Heller the video was beautifully shot under both The Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges in DUMBO, which also helped visualize the sentiment and tone behind the lyrics.

The Humble Grapes will be playing The Bitter End in NYC on Saturday, November 14th and have plans to tour the tri-state area throughout 2016 to support their forthcoming 2016 EP release.

Follow The Humble Grapes:
http://www.thehumblegrapes.com/
https://www.facebook.com/thehumblegrapesmusic
https://twitter.com/thehumblegrapes
https://instagram.com/thehumblegrapes/
https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/the-humble-grapes

For more information about The Humble Grapes or to set an interview, please contact Chip Schutzman at Miles High Productions: 323-806-0400 or chip@mileshighproductions.com

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

EDM/POP Vocalist C’nky Siwela Announces Music Video Release “My Name in the Echo” out November 4th

Electronic- pop singer, C’nky Siwela, showcases his second worldwide digital release, “My Name in the Echo,” available now!

Los Angeles, CA, October 30, 2015 - Electronic- pop singer, C’nky Siwela, showcases his second worldwide digital release, “My Name in the Echo,” available now!

This South African sensation won “Best Afro-Pop Artist” at the SACRA Awards following the release of his debut album, “Reminiscent of the Sounds.” Gearing up for his second full-length album, C’nky releases his second single which truly displays C’nky’s well-rounded music capabilities as a vocalist.

“My Name in the Echo” drifts away from his first electro-pop release, “Distant Cry,” and dives into a breaking wave of tropical guitar riffs that are blended into a deep house track. C’nky’s soulful vocals express a sense of struggle and disorientation while patiently waiting for “the voice of reason” to guide him. The track relates back to when C’nky was initially trying to discover himself as an artist. He was continuously being discouraged from others around him and started to be surrounded by negative forces that led him to even worse experiences. However, C’nky regained his strength and found enlightenment that guided him out of his lull. This song is intended for anyone with disarrayed feelings and is meant to inspire listeners to always believe in the vast amount of possibilities.

Not only does the song motivate listeners to think positively, but it is the type of track to encourage everyone within listening distance to sway to the upbeat tune and release their inhibitions, fears, and doubts. “If it’s possible for me, it is possible for everyone,” C’nky says. This peaceful, paradise get-away track can help ease and motivate the mind.

“Music is my calling, hence the name of this song I present; titled ‘My Name in the Echo.’ This serves as an inspiration to whoever is trying to quit and to listen to the voice of reason. The song talks about my struggle before I discovered my real place to express myself as an emerging Electro Pop/ Jazz Artist,” says C’nky.

C’nky Siwela’s new full length album release is expected to drop in early 2016, further demonstrating his impeccable talent. With his capabilities of incorporating jazz instrumentals into electro-pop, C’nky is definitely an artist to keep an eye out for.

Media Contact Information:
Chip Schutzman/Miles High Productions
chip@mileshighproductions.com
323-806-0400

South Africa Contact:
Samuel Muyinza/ Down2Earth Music
Sam@down2earthmusik.com

For more information please visit the C’nky Siwela official website: http://www.cnkysiwela.com/

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

http://www.mileshighproductions.com/

2016 Big Sur Foragers Festival Tickets on Sale Monday, November 2nd

Big Sur Health Center, a non-profit organization offering affordable healthcare to the Big Sur community, announced January 15-17, 2016 as the dates of its annual Big Sur Foragers Festival.

Big Sur, CA, November 05, 2015 - Big Sur Health Center, a non-profit organization offering affordable healthcare to the Big Sur community, announced January 15-17, 2016 as the dates of its annual Big Sur Foragers Festival. Held in Big Sur along California’s central coast, the festival is a weekend-long celebration featuring an amazing array of wild foods, world-class wine and beer, entertainment, expert-led foraging hikes and a friendly chef competition with celebrity judges. This year’s partners include Ventana Big Sur, longtime hosts of the Fungus Face-Off and the Celebrity Chef dinner, along with a new strategic partner, Post Ranch Inn, which will host several different events.

The event has traditionally served as a fundraiser for the Big Sur Health Center. The community's non-profit health center will receive the proceeds from the foraging events to continue to support the presence of local health care services in the Big Sur area.

“As the new owners of Ventana Big Sur, we are looking forward to continuing the tradition of supporting the Big Sur Health Center.” said Catherine Becker, General Manager.

“Post Ranch is very excited to co-host this year’s Big Sur Foragers Festival with Ventana,” said Mike Higgins, Vice President of Operations for Passport Resorts, the owners of Post Ranch Inn. “We have always firmly believed in the importance of supporting local organizations and could not imagine the Big Sur community without the vital contributions provided by the Health Center.”

The three day festival affords Big Sur area restaurants the opportunity to host the culinary expertise of notable chefs who will be preparing unique fare ranging from rustic to elegant, paired alongside the central coast region's amazing selection of wine and beer.

Tickets are on sale Monday, November 2nd www.eventbrite.com/e/big-sur-foragers-festival-tickets-19288671937.

New events for 2016 include:
Friday, January 15th:
• 5:30 Friday evening - Cocktail reception and fungus presentation by Louie Schwartzberg followed by 5 course tasting menu prepared by Chef John Cox with wine pairings selected by Sierra Mar wine director Dominique DaCruz. $500 per person. Limited to 22 tickets. Reservations to be made thru Post Ranch Reservations at 800 527 2200.

Sunday, January 17th:
• 11 a.m. Sunday morning - Property forage hike and lunch with Chef John Cox. Guest will enjoy an exclusive property wide tour of Post Ranch Led by Executive Chef John Cox followed by a 3 course lunch with wine pairing featuring items foraged on property and local wines. Limited to 16 people at $200 per person. Reservations made at 800 527 2200.This hike is weather permitting.

Back by Popular Demand:
Saturday, January 16th:
• Saturday, January 16th: This year there will be two "Wild Foraging Walk and Talk" - one at Pfeiffer State Park (level beginner) and one through the Big Sur Wilderness (level intermediate). Cost per hike $60.00. (Saturday, January 16th 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.)

• Saturday, January 16th "Fungus Face-Off" on the deck at Ventana Big Sur. "Fungus Face-Off" on the deck at Ventana Big Sur! "Fungus Face-Off" at Ventana Big Sur from 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm. Cost per person is $60. A friendly competition among some of the area's notable chefs featuring chanterelles and other fabulous fungi. Attendees also have an opportunity to cast their vote for "People's Choice". (Saturday, January 16th 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.)

• A silent auction full of culinary delights, hotel stays, tickets to explore the area, art and so much more will take place during the food and wine sampling. There will be more than 60 items this year! Purchase raffle tickets for $5 per ticket of $25 for 6 tickets. Enter to win your choice of 7 culinary delights or hotel packages! Raffle package values begin at $200 to $700! Tickets available for purchase at the event.

• The Big Sur Foragers Festival announces its Grand Chef Dinner at Ventana Big Sur. The "Foragers Dinner" at the Restaurant at Ventana will be held Saturday, January 16th, 2016 beginning at 6:00 pm. The multi-course dinner, destined to be a memorable feast paired with an incredible wine selection. Early bird tickets available for $150 inclusive from November 2nd – November 31st. Tickets will be sold for $175 beginning December 1.

Sunday, January 17th:
• Forager's Kitchen: Master Class in Cooking - Foraged Foods at Home at the Big Sur Lodge: A fun, fast-paced panel of some of Big Sur and Carmel's best chefs known for cooking with such foraged foods as chanterelles, sorrel, nettles and natural sea salt. Participants will get to taste the foods demonstrated by the chefs and take new recipes home. Chefs to be announced. (Sunday, January 17 - 2 to 4 pm) - Tickets will be on sale December 1st. Only 30 spaces available.

Tickets on sale now (2nd www.eventbrite.com/e/big-sur-foragers-festival-tickets-19288671937. For event details and venue information, visit www.bigsurforagersfestival.org or follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/bigsurforagersfestival.

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

Why Barcode Scanner with Google Sheets is better than Excel

Advantages of Scanning to Google Sheets

Sunnyvale, CA, October 29, 2015 - Microsoft Excel is a common tool used in inventory management. Today you can utilize barcode applications and upload to an excel spreadsheet. But your excel file runs the risk of being lost or damaged. This is why barcode scanner for Google Sheets is essential. In fact, it is more portable and handy. Netkiller Barcode Scanner allows you to do the same exact application. It can be used as a database for inventory management. With a simple scan, an item’s information can be uploaded to Google Sheets.

Here are a few reasons why use Google Sheet would make sense as your inventory management tool.

You don’t need any new software.

You don’t need to download a new software as you can open your files in Google Sheets format in any device. Google Sheets and Google Drive allow you to be mobile wherein using just an internet and browser you can make changes and view your documents.

This is a convenient and easy way of inventory management. Furthermore, even if you don’t have an internet connection you can view your documents through Google Docs’ offline features. Google Sheets are also evolving to have more capabilities and features.

Create Graphs with Google Sheets

With its tools, you can create graphs that will allow you to view your information in different formats. Graphs provide an accurate picture of your inventory and enables you to make reports. This is a great feature of Google Sheets based inventory management.

Improve your inventory management workflow

Furthermore, you can use Google Sheets and Google Form as these applications are complimentary. This supports inventory management for Google Drive since a form can be filled up and integrated with the barcode scanner. The same data will be uploaded to Google Sheets making it easy to create a barcode field. This makes it easier to track the information wherein you have a unique barcode to identify items in your inventory.

Combine sheets with Google Sheet’s “IMPORTRANGE” function

It’s also effortless to manage different sheets. This is because Google Sheet has an “IMPORTRANGE” function. This enables you to conduct a thorough analytics if you have data sets across different sheets. This can be merged into one allowing you sift through the data with ease. The original data is preserved while you create a new spreadsheet that shows all of the information you need. To learn more about IMPORTRANGE function, click here.

Use Google Add-on with your barcode data

The barcode scanner for Google Sheets is a complete inventory management program wherein you will almost never lose your data. Your information is secure and readily accessible making it effortless to complete your inventory workflow tasks. You can also use Google Sheets Add-on for printing barcode labels wherein it seamlessly works with your inventory management.

It works with smartphones.

The barcode app with Google Sheet is a powerful combination in terms of inventory management. It works with any iOS and Android based smartphone and you don’t need to reinvest on heavy gadgets if you’re doing inventory management. Significantly, this is a less expensive way of managing data and having a barcode that keeps track of all your items.

A Google Sheets based barcode scanning application give you the flexibility unlike doing inventory work in Microsoft Excel. With the Netkiller Barcode Scanner, you have quick access to Google Sheets wherein you can import and export information. This allows you to have a collaborative workflow with all the information stored and secured.

Netkiller is the leading Google for Work Partner. The company provides Google Apps solutions focusing on increasing productivity. It is completely integrated, giving you access to the Google Cloud Platform, providing you with business solutions.

* To use Netkiller Barcode Scanner your phone needs a barcode scanning application. Depending on the type of device you use, restrictions may apply.

Contact:
Harry Jung
Netkiller
440 N Wolfe Rd
Sunnyvale, CA 94085
408-641-0114

http://www.netkiller.com

Natural Paint Colors the Cove of Carmel

The Real Milk Paint Co., with Jon Stuefloten and Eco Carmel, launches new shade, Stillwater Grey.

Hohenwald, TN, October 28, 2015 - Stillwater Grey, a color embodying the essence of the Stillwater Cove fog, is the newest shade in the Real Milk Paint Co.’s color chart.

Known for his artistic finesse in historical restoration work, Jon Stuefloten, working with Kristi Reimers, owner of Eco Carmel, an ecologically safe store specializing in paint, hardware and home items, went to one of their preferred products, Real Milk Paint, to capture a piece of Stillwater Cove while working on a project in Pebble Beach.

Stuefloten and Reimers worked together to expertly match the look and color of an existing weathered board from the project.

“It took a few takes to get it right and the end results were perfect,” says Stuefloten. “The hue and color of the physical surroundings were important to capture. This bodes greatly to her ability to work with contractors who demand perfection. Thus Stillwater Gray was born. It was a joint effort that took our best work to a new level.”

“I was so excited when I heard Jon was using Real Milk Paint for a color inspired by the fog in the Cove”, says Dwayne Siever, owner of The Real Milk Paint Company. “Collaborating with such a talented artist was great — Jon really brought the Stillwater Grey to life. We’re excited to have a piece of Carmel in the color chart.”

Stuefloten’s interest in faux finishes and his inclination to work with natural products influenced the collaboration for the new hue with The Real Milk Paint Company.

“For me, Real Milk Paint was definitely the way to go,” Stuefloten explained. “Their products are exactly the kind of paint and finishes I enjoy working with — perfect for the beach-side projects.”

Although created in Tennessee, Real Milk Paint exemplifies the Californian way of life. Known for their “back-to-basics,” non-toxic, environmentally healthy milk paint, The Real Milk Paint Company has provided an easy, accessible way to use healthy products in your home. The paint products not only aid with clean carbon emissions and reduce the greenhouse effect, but leftover product can also be used as fertilizer.

“We aim to provide a strong, safe and healthy product for the home, as well as for the environment,” says Siever. “Families aren’t even aware that three years after painting, you can still be breathing in toxins from chemical-based formulas. It was important to us to provide a product that eliminated that element.”

Eco Carmel will be stocking Stillwater Grey.

For more information please visit www.realmilkpaint.com

Here are additional high resolution photos http://we.tl/ZrbG4hMF3D.

ABOUT US: Inspired by an appreciation for the environment, The Real Milk Paint® Company offers simplified DIY kits to renovate antique products. Its earth-friendly paints come in 54 hues and are made without any Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s). Providing non-toxic paint that aligns with EPA regulations, Real Milk Paint’s products are ideal for antique furniture, decks, floors and walls. Its exclusive formula provides an authentic finish to belongings and remains usable for a minimum of a two-week period after being mixed with water.

EDITOR'S NOTE: For more information about The Real Milk Paint Company and to arrange to speak with a company spokesperson, please contact Nancy Trent or Pamela Wadler at 212-966-0024 or pam@trentandcompany.com.

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

Sip, Swirl, Savor and Learn

The Fifth Annual “In Your Backyard” Series Brought to you by Edible Monterey Bay and Holman Ranch Announces Its 2016 Schedule and Charity Partners.

Carmel, CA, October 28, 2015 - Inspired by the culinary bounty of California's Central Coast, Holman Ranch Tasting Room, located at 19 E. Carmel Valley Road in Carmel Valley Village, is working with Edible Monterey Bay to invite local culinary chefs and artisans to demonstrate how wine can be best complemented with fresh culinary products found throughout the Central Coast.

The “In Your Backyard” series brought to you by Edible Monterey Bay and Holman Ranch will have chefs, farmers sand foragers sharing their tips and techniques for finding the perfect, fresh ingredients for preparing truly memorable meals, side dishes as well as understanding flavor pairings. From paella to abalone and sea vegetable demos, the series will showcase local experts’ knowledgeable on everything from how to select the best meats to creating savory pastries with ingredients from the local Farmers Market. Each demonstration will offer recommendations for the best wine to pair with the featured culinary item.

Here is a sneak peek at our 2016 schedule, partners and charity beneficiaries:
• January 26th at 6:00 PM –Chef Jérôme Viel from Wil’s Fargo Steakhouse + Baris a classically trained French chef born in Brittany, Jérôme Viel began studying the culinary arts at the age of 15. Traveling throughout Europe to study each region’s specialties, Chef Viel worked with some of the world’s greatest chefs. He left Europe in 1999 and landed in Carmel Valley, Calif., working at two prestigious resorts, Bernardus Lodge and Stonepine Estate. Viel fell in love with bucolic Carmel Valley, met his wife and started a family (the couple have two daughters). For the last 12 years Viel has worked as executive chef at Carmel Valley’s iconic Will’s Fargo Steakhouse + Bar.! Chef Jerome will be discussing wild mushrooms. The charity partner will be Nancy’s Project. The charity partner is Nancy’s Project. Nancy's Project is a charitable nonprofit organization founded by Nancy Costello, to distribute food, clothing, and other necessities to farm labor families in Monterey County. http://www.nancysproject.org/

• February 18th at 6:00 PM – Ted and Cindy Walter from Passionfish in Pacific Grove will be discussing the sourcing and cooking of delicious, fresh sustainable seafood! The charity partner will be Seafood Watch. The Monterey Bay Aquarium's Seafood Watch program helps consumers and businesses choose seafood that's fished or farmed in ways that protect sea life and habitats, now and for future generations. Our recommendations indicate which seafood items are "Best Choices" or "Good Alternatives," and which ones you should "Avoid." We raise public awareness about sustainable seafood issues through our consumer guides, website, mobile apps and outreach efforts. http://www.seafoodwatch.org/

• March 16th, 6:00 PM - Chef Brandon Miller from Mundaka in Carmel-by-the-Sea will celebrate National Paella Day by taking you on a culinary journey through Spain and teach you the tips and secrets of how to make traditional Spanish Paella. The charity partner is the Food Bank for Monterey County. The Food Bank for Monterey County is the largest provider of emergency supplemental food in Monterey County. Our mission is “to lead community efforts in the awareness and elimination of hunger in Monterey County.” The food bank solicits, collects, stores, and redistributes food to individuals as well as non-profit agencies that serve the aged, ill, and needy.
http://www.foodbankformontereycounty.org/

• April 20th at 6:00 PM – Chef Brad Briske from La Balena in Carmel-by-the-Sea will do a grass fed nose-to-tail, cooking demo! The charity partner will be MEarth. MEarth is an environmental education nonprofit with roots in Carmel Valley, California, that is growing the next generation of environmental leaders through education, collaboration, partnerships and community action. We educate and inspire through environmental stewardship. http://mearthcarmel.org/

• May 18th Aubergine’s Ron Mendoza will lead you in creating fabulous desserts. The evening will benefit Everyone’s Harvest, bringing people and healthy food together through certified farmers' markets and community food programs. www.everyonesharvest.org

• June 15th will feature Ken McDonald from Edgars at Quail Lodge in Carmel Valley who will take you from garden to table, discussing how to plant your garden with your menus in mind and providing tips for cooking your harvest. The evening will benefit Ag Against Hunger, which channels surplus fruits and vegetables from farms in our area to those in need. www.agagainsthunger.org

• July 14th, 6:00 PM – John Cox with Sierra Mar at Post Ranch in Big Sur and Trevor Fay of Monterey Abalone Co. will take up the theme “Cooking the Big Sur Coast,” showing you how to cook our local abalone and sea vegetables, and sharing how Monterey Abalone raises the iconic gastropod and forages for sea vegetables and rare seafood in Monterey Bay. Charity Partner is the Grower Shipper Foundation. The Grower-Shipper Association Foundation is a non-profit 501c(3) organization that provides education and information on the agriculture industry as well as offering innovative programs to our community outreach. We are here to make our community aware of the positive impact agriculture makes to all our lives. Help us to be a part of the solution to educate, inform and inspire. www.growershipperfoundation.org

Reservations are required for all classes and the cost for each event is $25 per person. Classes are $10 for wine club members. Class size is limited to 25 attendees. This includes the class, wine tasting, small bites, and meeting, learning and sampling from a local artisan. A portion of the class proceeds will benefit the local charity organizations. To make reservations call 831-659-2640 or email info@holmanranch.com.

Holman Ranch’s Carmel Valley Village Tasting Room is the perfect backdrop to swirl, sip and savor the different complexities of Holman Ranch Vineyard and Winery wines while learning about the culinary bounty available in your own backyard. The tasting room is open daily from 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. and is available for private events.

About Holman Ranch Vineyard and Winery:
Located at the north eastern tip of the Carmel Valley Appellation, the family-owned Holman Ranch resides approximately 12 miles inland from the Pacific Coast. Immersed in history and romance, the ranch has not only proven to be an excellent growing location for our vineyards but also for the Tuscan varietal olive trees which have flourished under the temperate climate. Holman Ranch estate-grown wine varietals are planted on approximately 19 acres of undulating terrain. The wines produced are unfined and crafted to deliver the true varietal of the grape from harvest to bottle. The climate and terroir of the appellation has played a critical part in the success of their wines. The warmth of the inland valley coupled with the cooling marine layer has proven to be an ideal microclimate for the production of Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris. The vineyards' Burgundy Clones have thrived from the perfect blend of ideal climate, southern exposure and thin rocky soils.

The estate wines of Holman Ranch include: Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Rosé of Pinot Noir. Carefully hand-harvested, cold pressed and bottled, the Extra Virgin Olive Oil produced from the fruits of our trees has a delightfully distinctive flavor.

Holman Ranch: Where the Past is Always Present. Tucked away in the rolling hills of Carmel Valley, historic Holman Ranch provides a unique and memorable setting for weddings, special events, family gatherings, corporate retreats, and team-building events. With its charming gardens, stunning mountain views and serenity, this private estate affords old-world charm while providing modern day conveniences. This stunning property includes a fully restored stone hacienda, overnight guest rooms, vineyards, olive grove, horse stables and more. www.holmanranch.com

About Edible Monterey Bay
Founded in 2011, Edible Monterey Bay produces a beautiful quarterly magazine and weekly email newsletter celebrating the local food cultures of Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Benito Counties, season by season. It also promotes local and sustainable regional food cultures through outstanding food and wine-themed events. For more information, go to www.ediblemontereybay.com or call (831) 298-7117.

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