Best-Selling Author John Mattone to Co-Author Forthcoming Book on Leadership

The author of seven books on leadership, talent, executive coaching and succession planning, John Mattone is widely acknowledged as one the world’s leading authorities on leadership, talent and culture.

Harrisburg, PA, November 09, 2014 - One of the world’s leading authorities on leadership, talent and corporate culture is teaming with the Managing Editor of The CEO Magazine to co-author a forthcoming book, “Cultural Transformations: Lessons on Leadership & Corporate Reinvention from the C-Suite Elite” (Wiley & Sons, 2016).

John Mattone, a best-selling leadership author, leading C-Suite coach, speaker and top-ranked independent leadership consultant, and Nick Vaidya, Managing Editor of The CEO Magazine, will co-author the book.

By using engaging CEO “fireside” chats, this book will expose current leaders of all levels, emerging c-suite executives, and future leaders to the unique insights, thoughts, beliefs, values, character success stories, setbacks, failures, and lessons learned of some of the world’s most successful CEOs. The book will also show how these successful CEOs have leveraged what they’ve learned about themselves as the critical foundation to their creating and sustaining powerful and positive organizational cultures.

“It is our premise that creating and sustaining a winning culture in any organization starts at the top with CEOs and senior leaders who possess a strong and vibrant ‘inner-core’, which includes their character, values, beliefs, thinking patterns, and emotional make up,” says Mattone.

Having already received commitments from one of the world’s top female executives, Kathy Mazzarella, Chairman, President & CEO of Fortune 500 Graybar and Juan Carlos Archila , CEO of Claro Colombia, Mattone and Vaidya are currently lining up interviews other top international CEOs who have earned a reputation for being a leaders of character and leading positive transformation in their respective businesses.

“The 25 leaders who are selected for inclusion in the book will be the best-of-the-best CEOs who are leaders of character and who have proven to be positive leaders of transformation in their organization,” says Mattone.

The authors are donating 50 percent of their earned royalties on the book to breast cancer research, too. Mattone notes that his wife, Gayle, is a two-time breast cancer survivor and continues to be a tremendous inspiration to him and their four-adult children.

The author of seven books on leadership, talent, executive coaching and succession planning, John Mattone is widely acknowledged as one the world’s leading authorities on leadership, talent and culture. He advises Fortune 1000 CEO’s and senior leadership teams on how to create and sustain a “game-changing” leadership and talent culture that drives superior operating results. He is a powerfully engaging, internationally-acclaimed keynote speaker and top ranked CEO executive coach. He was nominated for the prestigious 2013 Thinkers50 Leadership Award, which recognizes the global thinker who has contributed most significantly to our understanding of leadership over the last two years. He appears on 2013 Thinkers50 “Guru Radar”, which recognizes the fastest rising stars in the field of leadership and he is currently recognized by HR.com and Leadership Excellence Magazine as one of the world's top independent leadership consultants, executi ve coaches, and speakers. He is the co-author of one of the most respected studies of leadership and talent management in the world, “The Trends in Leadership Development and Talent Management, which is published bi-annually by Pearson. He was recently appointed Distinguished Senior Fellow of one of leading business schools in the world, the Hult International Business School.

In addition to his work at The CEO Magazine, Vaidya works with senior executives at large and smaller firms. After MBA and PhD research in Psychometrics, Nick has spent over 15 years helping firms like eBay, Dell, Microsoft, Trilogy, IBM, etc. as well as SMBs improve revenue & profitability. He conducts seminars on sales, marketing, and strategy. In past roles he served the Strategy Team with the Office of the Chairman at an F-50 firm as a Senior Advisor. Later he was responsible for leading the profitability & pricing team for almost half of the company. He headed the consulting team at Advertising Agency Avenue A / Razorfish in Seattle and worked for OC&C Strategy Consultants in Boston. Nick started his career in a sales and sales management role with a TATA company. He has been an entrepreneur since 2002 starting with Teleologies - a database marketing firm.

CEOs interested in being profiled in the book can contact Mr. Mattone at 321-279-4416 or john@johnmattone.com; or contact Nick Vaidya at 512-772-3701 or Nick@The-CEO-Magazine.com

Contact:
Steven Infanti
SMI Communications
6106 Terry Davis Court
Harrisburg, PA 17111
717-982-3772
SMICommunications@Earthlink.net
http://www.JohnMattone.com

AuraPortal to Participate as Platinum Partner at the National Conference in Bucharest

The conference, held on October 9 in Bucharest, Romania, will feature the most renowned representatives of the BPM community worldwide, including the IT research analysts from Gartner who will engage in talks, tutorials and scientific discussions.

Woburn, MA, November 09, 2014 – AURA (www.auraportal.com), a global provider of AuraPortal Business Process Management (BPM) software, has announced its participation in the BPM Eastern Europe Conference in Bucharest. This event, held annually, covers all aspects of BPM, including theory, models, techniques, architectures, systems and empirical studies.

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

Cristobal Toro, AuraPortal Executive Manager for Eastern Europe will actively participate in the training workshops, solution provider (real-life case studies), Success Stories (end-users and providers) and face-to-face consultation meetings in order to present the best about the Business Process Management concepts and about the technology that it supports.

Moreover, AuraPortal will sponsor the practical workshop about BPM conducted by ABPMP Romania (Association of Business Process Management Professionals) of which Cristobal Toro holds the rank of Vice President.

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.

Press Release Distributed by Straight Line PR (http://www.Straightlinepr.com)

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

5th ANNUAL WHALEFEST MONTEREY to be held at Old Fisherman’s Wharf

Whale Watching Capital of the World!™ Inspire - Educate - Explore – Empower & Protect Our Beautiful Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary

Monterey, CA, November 05, 2014 - Over the past year, thousands of whale watchers have enjoyed viewing a variety of hundreds of whales, orcas, dolphins and pelicans who continue to feast on a “krill and anchovy buffet” in the Monterey Bay, in Monterey, California. A very special festival, Whalefest Monterey, celebrates its 5th year highlighting community efforts and building more awareness about the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, helping to educate, inspire, empower and protect it. Don't miss a free fun interactive family event for all ages that celebrates the migration of the gray whales, the Monterey Bay, and Old Fisherman's Wharf, while benefiting many local and national marine organizations.

On Saturday, January 24th and Sunday, January 25th, 2015 from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, the Monterey Old Fisherman's Wharf Association (www.montereywharf.com) will hold the 5th ANNUAL WHALEFEST MONTEREY at and around Old Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey, CA, the “Whale Watching Capital of the World™ .

Throughout the year, the Monterey Bay offers sightings of 15 species of whales, 10 species of dolphins and 2 species of porpoise, 6 species of pinnipeds and 1 species of Fissiped (sea otter). Visitors to the Monterey Bay can enjoy viewing six Baleen Whales that include Blue Whales, Fin Whales, Sei Whales, Humpback Whales, Gray Whales, Minke Whales and North Pacific Right Whales (rare). There are also eight toothed whales that include Sperm Whales, Baird’s Beaked Whales, Curvier’s Beaked Whales, Pygmy Sperm Whales, Dwarf Sperm Whales, Stejneger’s Beaked Whales, Blainville’s Beaked Whale sand Hubb’s Beaked Whales. The Monterey Bay also features 9 dolphin species including Orcas (Killer Whale), Northern right whale Dolphins, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Risso’s Dolphins, Bottlenose Dolphins, Short-beaked Common Dolphins, Long-beaked Common Dolphins, Striped Dolphins, Short Fin Pilot Whales and the False Killer Whale (rare).

There are two porpoise species including Harbor Porpoises and Dall’s Porpoises. There is one Fissiped, the Southern Sea Otter. There are also four Otariid Pinnipeds including Guadalupe Fur Seals, Northern Fur Seals, California Sea Lions and Northern Sea Lions (Steller Sea Lions). There are also two Phocid Pinnipeds, including Harbor Seals and Northern Elephant Seals. (Source: Monterey Bay Marine Life Studies).

Among the highlights will be a symposium with lectures and documentaries related to ocean and marine life conservation presented at the Museum of Monterey, Stanton Center (MoM) Auditorium and the Wharf Theatre, musical and theatrical performances with a maritime theme, and many educational displays by participating organizations.

Thousands of attendees are expected again this year that range from local families and school children who want to learn more about our maritime environment to visitors from near and far who want to explore the annual whale migration. The event will also feature a science credit program for students from university level to schoolchildren. Weather permitting, whale watching tours will be operating from the Wharf, and Wharf restaurants will be serving a variety of small bites.

The two days will feature a wide array of fun and informative activities including:

* A 60-foot model gray whale (attendees can climb inside)

* Live musical performances will be provided by Nick Fettis & His Orca-stra, and a number of local bands playing rock, reggae, and jazz.

* Whale watching trips on Monterey Bay will run all day from the wharf, weather permitting, including an American Cetacean Society Benefit Whale Watching Cruise at 8:00 am on Sunday, January 25th.

* Award-winning documentaries and lectures by world renowned scientists will focus on the Pacific Current System.

* Expert panelists including scientists and business leaders.

* “Sea creatures” from Save the Whales will be interacting with attendees and providing marine and event information.

* Beach and street cleanups by The Wahine Project and by Marine Life Studies (Take It to the Streets) and Save Our Shores.

* Shark and Humboldt Squid will be dissected.

* Mock Whale Disentanglement demonstrations.

* Gyotaku (Japanese fish printing) demonstrations staffed by volunteers from the Japanese American Citizens League.

* Historic walking tours by maritime historian, Tim Thomas.

* U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will have several displays that may include Coastie the Safety Tug Boat, its rescue boat and a Coast Guard 29' Transportable Response Boat and Auxter, the Otter.

* Local marine photography fundraiser exhibit and drawing at Museum of Monterey Stanton Center – Stanton Center (MoM), 5 Custom House Plaza.

Other activities to be announced!

Participating Marine Conservation Organizations:

Local national and international marine conservation organizations will line the Causeway at Old Fisherman’s Wharf or give presentations at the Museum of Monterey.

Past participants included:

* American Cetacean Society
* BLUE Ocean Film Festival and Conservation Summit
* California Coastal Commission
* California State Parks
* Camp SEA Lab
* City of Monterey Environmental Program
* Hopkins Marine Station of Stanford University
* Marine Life Studies
* Marine Mammal Center
* Monterey Academy of Oceanographic Science
* Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
* National Marine Sanctuary
* Monterey Green Action
* Monterey History and Art Association
* Monterey Public Library
* Monterey Peninsula Regional Water Authority
* Monterey Peninsula Yacht Club
* Monterey Regional Water Pollution Control Agency
* Moss Landing Marine Laboratories
* Pacific Grove Museum
* Pacific Shark Research Center
* PUACF
* Save Our Shores
* Save the Whales
* Sea Save Foundation
* Surfrider Foundation – Monterey Chapter
* The Marine Mammal Center
* The Otter Project
* U.S Coast Guard Auxiliary

For more information, to volunteer or to become a sponsor, call Bob Massaro at (831) 649-6544 or email Bob at bmassaro@bostrommanagement.com and check out the website at www.montereywharf.org

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

“Crab Mania” at Monterey's Old Fisherman's Wharf to Celebrate Dungeness Crabbing in the Monterey Bay

Do you love Dungeness Crab? Many award-winning restaurants at Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf are participating in the special “Crab Mania" at Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf celebrating fresh Dungeness Crab from the Monterey Bay.

Monterey, CA, November 05, 2014 - Do you love Dungeness Crab? Many award-winning restaurants at Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf are participating in the special “Crab Mania" at Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf celebrating fresh Dungeness Crab from the Monterey Bay. The recreational Dungeness Crab season kicks off November 1st and the commercial Dungeness Crab season starts on November 15th and goes through June.

In addition to Dungeness Crab, locals and visitors can enjoy a wide array of delicious entrees at Old Fisherman’s Wharf including other fresh seafood, Alaskan crab, steaks, pasta and much more. Many Monterey Wharf restaurants will be serving some great locally caught Dungeness crab entrees when the commercial season kicks off and they also offer Alaskan crab during the rest of the year.

Here are just a few of the delicious crab entrees visitors to Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf can enjoy:

At Nino’s Wharfside
Dungeness Crab steamed with drawn butter, steamed vegetables, mashed potatoes or rice.

At Paluca Trattoria
Dungeness Crab Cioppino style with capers, black olives, crushed pomodoro (tomato), Pinot Grigio, and Italian flat leaf parsley.

At Old Fisherman’s Grotto
Crab Cakes with Dungeness Crabmeat, lightly breaded and grilled, served with Sun Dried Tomato Aioli and Mango Sauce.

At Domenico’s on the Wharf:
Dungeness Crab Scampi style with garlic, white wine, olive oil and angel hair pasta.
Recreational Dungeness Crab fishing and other fishing trips can also be booked at Randy’s Fishing Trips or Chris' Fishing Trips daily on Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf.

About Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf
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, 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. Bring your friends, family, and dogs (on leash) for a wonderful visit from morning to evening. Enjoy the exquisite views and the “best place to walk and people watch” in Monterey County!

Visitors to Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf continue to “Enjoy the Wonders of the Wharf” free VIP Card promotion available on the website with 27 special offers. 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 831.238-077

About Wharf Walks
Recreational Dungeness Crab Season begins on November 1st and Commercial Crab Season begins November 15th and goes through June 30th. Crabs will inspire the theme of Wharf Walks! The Monterey 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 Monterey's Old Fisherman's Wharf" (www.montereywharf.com) on the first Saturday of every month from 10:00 AM - Noon.
Wharf Walks will be held on Saturday, November 1st and Saturday, December 6th focusing on "Crabbing on 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. Future Wharf Walks will be held on November 1st and December 6th, continuing on the first Saturday of every month in 2015.

After taking the Wharf Walk, participants are invited to enjoy a complimentary appetizer of delicious calamari (squid) - either traditional style or pesto calamari - with a purchased entrée, at Paluca Trattoria located at the head of the Wharf.

About Wharf Walks
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.

About Tim Thomas
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 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.montereywharf.com

Singer-Songwriter Joseph Eid set to release Warm and Heartfelt version of “Blue Christmas” with New Video and Single November 4

New Video Release of The Classic Christmas Song Coincides with Guitarist/Vocalist’s Latest Single, ‘Something Real’, from Debut Album,‘Human’.

Los Angeles, CA, November 05, 2014 - A special Christmas combo from Joseph Eid featuring a cover version of the famous Elvis Presley Christmas hit, “Blue Christmas”, and Eid’s recent new video and single, “Something Real”, is going for adds on radio and set for this season's holiday promotions starting November 10th. Americana-Folk Singer/Songwriter Joseph Eid released his debut full studio album Human in November 2013 and contains the first single, ‘Ready Now.” Eid has been garnering considerable buzz with his music and recently named as one of the 100 Hottest Live Unsigned Artists of 2012 and 2013 by Music Connection Magazine.

Even though, as a legendary and well known Christmas song, “Blue Christmas” has been covered by many outstanding musicians, Eid’s emotional and heartfelt singing style and his refreshing and delicate finger picking guitar sound give a brand new translation to this Christmas hit. As a folk singer/songwriter, Eid knows how to take the best advantage of the pure and clear acoustic sound of a guitar to express his inner world and passion. This version of “Blue Christmas” combined this feature with his emotional and soft male vocal, and the gentle piano fill-ins are like the red cherry on a sundae, making the whole song feels like a warm breeze in the Holiday season. Eid’s release includes not only the sound recording of this song but also a new music video, which will provide new fans and holiday music lovers a musical classic remake as well as a visual into Eid’s world.

“Human,” has been a big breakthrough with professing his craft as a professional musician. Sound of Confusion commented, “Human is a real journey with some touches of magic, all delivered with a charm and craftsmanship that rewards with each play." The album seamlessly blends sharp, melodic pop lyricism with traditional folk sensibilities evoking folk troubadours both past and present.It overall has a peaceful and soothing feeling, while every song is a strong and passionate self-expression from the artist. The delicate and emotional guitar work and intricate but relatable lyrics has become Eid’s trademark.

The second song from Eid being serviced to radio and media/video outlets is his latest single “Something Real” from his debut album “Human”. Eid recently released a music video of “Something Real,” which is based on a personal experience that also happens to be universal with communication via technology and social media. A visually simple yet emotionally complex music video, “Something Real,” is meant as a commentary on our constant need to be plugged in and how this has changed the way we communicate as well as taken away the value and the weight of words and human connection. This idea is demonstrated in the video as Eid sings to and tries to connect with lifeless, robotic people. The twist at the end of the video illustrates that no one is immune to the digital disease – including Eid.

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

Sip, Swirl, Savor and Learn The Fourth Annual “In Your Backyard” Series Brought to you by Edible Monterey Bay and Holman Ranch Announces Its 2015 Schedule, Charity Partners as well as a Special Event at Holman Ranch!

Sip, Swirl, Savor and Learn The Fourth Annual “In Your Backyard” Series Brought to you by Edible Monterey Bay and Holman Ranch

Carmel, CA, November 04, 2014 - 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 peak at our 2015 schedule, partners and charity beneficiaries:
In Your Backyard 2015 Class Schedule:

• January 21st at 6:00 PM – Chef Brad Briske from La Balena in Carmel-by-the-Sea and Mark Shelley with Tassajara Natural Meats 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/

• February 11th 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 25th, 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 22nd, 6:00 PM – John Cox with Sierra Mar at Post Ranch in Big Sur and Trevor Bridge 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. 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/

• May 13th, Aubergine’s Ron Mendoza will lead you in creating fabulous desserts. The evening will benefit Everyone’s Harvest, which brings fresh, healthful organic foods to underserved areas of Monterey County with its five farmers Markets. www.everyonesharvest.org

• June 16 will feature Ken McDonald from Edgars at Quail Lodge in Carmel Valley and Jamie Collins, owner of Carmel’s Serendipity Farms, 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

Reservations are required for all classes and the cost for each event is $25 per person. Classes are $10 for wine club members. 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.

New for 2015 will be an In Your Backyard finale event at Holman Ranch on July 15th. Join some of the best Chefs and Purveyors in Monterey County for picnic like no other: think elegant farm-to-table benefit dinner, but much more informal, with blankets instead of folding chairs and white table cloths, and evening of sampling farm to fork small bites, sipping Holman Ranch wines, listening to live music and meeting our 2015 charity beneficiary partners.

Save the date of July 15th 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at Holman Ranch 60 Holman Road in Carmel Valley! Details will be announced in January 2015!

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 Public Relations
23625 Holman Highway
Monterey, California 93940
(831) 747-7455
http://www.holmanranch.com

Test of Tyme, A Construction/Real Estate Consulting Firm, To Hold Seminar at Gallery Sur in Carmel-by-the-Sea on Wednesday, November 12th

Founded in 2008, Test of Tyme, an international real estate investment and development company that restores, builds, buys and sells estates in Carmel, Pebble Beach.

Pacific Grove, CA, November 03, 2014 - Founded in 2008, Test of Tyme, an international real estate investment and development company that restores, builds, buys and sells estates in Carmel, Pebble Beach, will hold a free seminar, “A Look at Historic and New Estates in Carmel and Pebble Beach” on Wednesday, November 12th from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. The seminar will be held at Gallery Sur located on 6th Avenue between Dolores and Lincoln (next door to the Little Swiss Café) in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Refreshments from the new Kai Lee Creamery (in the American Tin Cannery) and beverages will be served. Space is very limited and RSVPs are mandatory by calling (831) 655-2008 or emailing tot@testoftyme.com.

Enjoy a rare glimpse inside some beautiful historic and Old Europe-inspired Carmel and Pebble Estates. Gather ideas of what you can do to restore your own home so it becomes a lasting work of art for generations to come. During his fascinating seminar, Don Whitaker will discuss:

* Opening the Door of the Past to Look Into the Future
* Historic Building Through the Ages
* Use of Sustainable Resources
* Art and Artifact Creation and Restoration
* Q and A

About Test of Tyme:
Known as two of the most sought-after artisans and consultants on the Monterey Peninsula, Don Whitaker and Scott Coulter and their hand-picked group of sub-contractors, have worked together to build or renovate many of the largest estates in the area. Due to their passion and talent, artistic vision and top craftsmanship, they have been honored to work on 300-350 of the largest and most beautiful homes and structures in Carmel-by-the-Sea and Pebble Beach, including 20 homes on the ocean side of Seventeen Mile Drive in Pebble Beach as well as the Cypress Point Golf Course Club House and Pebble Beach and Tennis Club. Most recently, they have worked on a 28-room mansion near the Lone Cypress Tree. Their work, simply stated, is created to stand the Test of Tyme!

One of their specialties is in the replication and creation of Old World-inspired finishes (1680’s – 1740’s European style), as well as the creation of original pieces designed for a specific home or space. They also restore paintings and other works of art.

Since the establishment of Test of Tyme in 2008, Scott Coulter and Don Whitaker’s artistic work has been featured in the prestigious Perspectives on Design California, a publication on creative ideas shared by leading design professionals. This is a showcase of the state’s finest architects, artisans, homebuilders, landscape architects, interior designers, craftsmen, and other industry specialists, under whose creative direction the extraordinary is made possible. This publication is part of a popular series that spans the Southwest, Chicago, New England, Florida and other design-savvy regions in North America and Europe.

Test of Tyme consists of artisans whose passions lie in the transformation of a home into an embodiment of three-dimensional art. According to Scott Coulter, “We are a community of craftsman and artisans that transform dwellings into habitable works of art. From the hand laid tile individually treated to match flawlessly with one another to the revival of a damaged painting thought to be untreatable. Rustic furnishes, antique revitalization, old-world finishes, varnishes, and custom painting.”

Test of Tyme can transform every aspect of the average home into a marvelous homage to the old-world escapes captured off the pages of a European novella. The craftsmanship and artistic vision of every member of this team poured into the very foundation of each of their passionate projects. But the artistic skill of Test of Tyme extends beyond the palette of the metamorphosis. Their skills including restoring other art such as damaged sculptures, paintings, or manipulating unique pieces of art to fit with the motif of your home. Rejuvenating and recovering the vibrancy of art that was believed to be beyond saving, or modifying other pieces to synchronize fluidly to ambience of your living areas.

About Don Whitaker:
A partner in Test of Tyme, Monterey native Don Whitaker is also the owner of The Golden Hammer in Pacific Grove providing cabinetry and custom millwork, including furniture design. He earned local, state-wide and international awards for his carpentry work and has over 40 years of experience, primarily on the largest homes in the Carmel and Pebble Beach area. His passion for perfection is reflected in his wood artistry seen in doors, beams, cabinets, floors and more. Don is a graduate of Monterey High School and attended Monterey Peninsula College. He began work in his field at the cabinetry shop that his father managed.

About Scott Coulter
A partner in Test of Tyme and also the owner of Time Honored Finishes, Scott is legendary for his custom painting and extraordinary “time honored finishes” that transform the interior and exterior of a home into a work of art for generations to come. Specializing in rustic furnishes, antique revitalization, Old World finishes, varnishes and custom painting. His surfaces are scraped, distressed, shaded, brushed, aged and inspired by Scott’s vision. Scott also skillfully restores damaged sculptures and paintings, as well as modifying other pieces to synchronize fluidly within a home. Together with Don Whitaker, surfaces featuring wood, paint, plaster, stone, effects and iron are perfectly finished to suit an estate’s unique character.

About Gallery Sur
Gallery Sur specializes in dramatic oversized color photography of Big Sur, Carmel and Pebble Beach along with a dynamic collection of color cityscapes and architectural abstracts. For the golfer, we have an impressive collection of memorable golf landscapes of Pebble Beach, Cypress Point and other courses around the world. Each piece is custom designed to suit your individual needs. Also now proudly representing the Nyanhongo family of sculptors, a stunning array of original African stone sculpture that touches your soul.

For more information, go to www.testoftyme.com or call (831) 655-2008.

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