04/30 MIMI KOZMA, FOOD HERO MIMI KOZMA TV SERIES, HEAL LAUREN VOLCHEFF, LAST MINUTE TRAVEL CLUB

MIMI KOZMA (KOZ-MA) – MASTER HOME CHEF, INTERNATIONAL FOOD CONNOISSEUR AND STAR OF FOOD HERO MIMI KOZMA TV SERIES - COOKING FOR THE CAUSE: MEALS TO HELP HEAL

What if a meal or special dinner could make living with a disability a little easier? Can this inspire a secret recipe?

Mimi Kozma, International Food Connoisseur and Master Chef, is sharing with the world her story of taking individuals from homebound and hopeless to valiant and valued. The art of cooking is a gift in itself, but using this gift to help others is a true masterpiece.

"Food Hero Mimi Kozma" is a TV Series about a master home chef that 'pays it forward' by bringing awareness to the community about the community.

MIMIKOZMA.COM

USAHOMETOWNHEROES.ORG 


LAUREN VOLCHEFF, VP SALES & MARKETING FOR LAST MINUTE TRAVEL CLUB GIVES US 5 TIPS FOR STRESS-FREE VACATION PLANNING

"Shopping for and booking travel has definitely become more DIY because of smart phones and travel apps," says Lauren Volcheff, VP for Last Minute Travel Club. Volcheff says today's online shoppers have more ways than ever to find hidden travel bargains:

1. Book on an opaque online travel agency site. Many of the best hotel prices in the travel industry are secured by private agreements, with the stipulation that these discounts can't be advertised to the public. That's why travelers who make reservations without knowing which hotel they're booking often get better prices than those who shop with full information.

2. Choose a vacation home. If you're adventurous and don't mind staying in a private home, you can find bargains by renting or sharing homes.

3. Wait for last-minute sales. Hotels, airlines, and cruise lines often turn to wholesalers to liquidate unsold rooms, seats and cabins at the last minute. If you're patient, you can get excellent prices.
4. Find a cheap flight first. Often, the most expensive purchase of all travel products is the flight. "Shoulder" season or off-season rates for popular destinations will save hundreds (so you have more money to spend on the attractions that make vacations fun!)

5. Join a discount travel club. Discount travel clubs are like membership warehouses for travel. By keeping travel discounts on a members-only site, clubs like LMTC can get prices far below those that cruise lines and hotels advertise on their sites.

ABOUT LAUREN VOLCHEFF
Lauren Volcheff is a VP for LMT Club's parent company, Tourico Holidays, part of a 20-year-old, billion-dollar travel company headquartered near Orlando, Florida. Volcheff has been an influential leader in the travel industry for nearly a decade.

04/29 LARRY LIPSON, MASTER CHEF AUSTRALIA, DAN CHURCHILL, DUDEFOOD

LARRY LIPSON – AFFORDABLE WINE EXPERT

For fifty years Larry Lipson was the food critic for the Los Angeles Daily News and now reports from Florida weekly with his thoughts and favorite picks for Food & Wine.  His lovely Wife Lillian is also on hand at the Lipson Institute for advanced wine studies.


FROM MASTER CHEF AUSTRALIA DAN CHURCHILL JOINS THE SHOW TO TALK ABOUT HIS FIRST U.S. COOKBOOK, DUDEFOOD

Calling all dudes: you no longer have an excuse to avoid the kitchen. The completely winning, passionate, and break-out star of Master Chef Australia, Dan Churchill is all about getting his fellow dudes excited about making delicious food. His first U.S. cookbook, DUDEFOOD: A Guy’s Guide to Cooking Kick-Ass Food, is prime for guys who have always wanted to cook, but don’t know where to start; boyfriends who are intimated by a frying pan; and sons who have too long relied on their parents for meals.

Divided into sections based on everyday scenarios including ‘Foods That Last’, ‘The Hangover Cure’, and ‘How To Impress A Girl’, DUDEFOOD shares the secrets to cooking a repertoire of eggs, seafood, poultry, meats, vegetables, sandwiches, and even desserts. Churchill is a cook, author, physical trainer, and speaker. His recipes have been featured in the likes of Men’s Health and Women’s Fitness and attract thousands of hits online and through his youtube channel.

Churchill educates, motivates, and inspires guys to embrace their inner chefs with these mouth-watering recipes that are easy to read and, most important, easy to replicate. He will no doubt appeal to his male peers, and mothers the world over will adore him and seek his advice for their sons. Packed with helpful tips and shortcuts, as well as beautiful photographs, this book will turn any dude into a cook.

04/28 HOME IMPROVEMENT EXPERT GEORGE OLIPHANT, CHEF CLAUD BELTRAN, BACCHUS KITCHEN, GUMBO FEST

HOME IMPROVEMENT EXPERT GEORGE OLIPHANT - WHY WAIT UNTIL SUMMER FOR THOSE HOME-IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS? TIPS AND TRICKS OF THE TRADE 

Whether it’s freshening up a room with a coat of new paint, updating the bathroom fixtures or replacing drafty windows, George has the 4-11 on all the fix-ups for your home.

George will talk about:

• The latest DIY design trends
• Cost-effective ways to spruce things up around the house
• Small changes that make a big difference

About George Oliphant:
George Oliphant is the Emmy Award winning host of LXTV’s George to the Rescue. On the show, he teams up with design and construction experts to rescue a family or community in need of home improvements. From design updates to brand new kitchens and community centers, George to the Rescue fixes the homes of those in need.

VIDEOPUMP.TV


CHEF CLAUD BELTRAN - NEW RESTAURANT (BACCHUS KITCHEN) AND THIS YEARS GUMBO FEST

ABOUT CHEF CLAUD BELTRAN:
Passion, commitment to excellence, integrity, humor and a sense of adventure these words begin to sum up Chef Claud Beltran. An exotic mix of Mexican and Lebanese heritage, Chef Beltran was exposed to various ethnic foods at an early age. After being mentored by Master Chef Thomas Keller, Chef Beltranset out to make his own name. For over a quarter century Claud Beltran has established himself as one of Los Angeles preeminent chefs. With his accomplished staff he creates culinary delights and fantastic designs that please all the senses. His experinence with multiple venues makes your event experience seemless and his excuiste palate for food and wine makes your meal one to top all others.

ABOUT THE EATERY ON ALLEN:
488 North Allen Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91106

Welcome to The Eatery by Claud & Co Catering in Pasadena. We are proud to feature a relaxed open-kitchen restaurant where once a month there’s a new theme of food. One month may focus on a region or culture of food and then the next month centers around specific ingredients indicative of the time period. We always follow the seasons and source local foods. The Eatery is an extension of our catering company. After so many years of catering and menu planning, we thought, “Why not share this idea with the public?”

The “& Co.” part of Claud & Co. to us is an important part of what we do. Our staff has worked together for a long time and we would like to welcome you to join our “family” for dinner. We look forward to meeting you.

Our unique dining experience will be available Tuesday through Friday evenings. We have saved Saturday through Monday nights for private dining of groups with twelve or more and private catering off site.

ABOUT CLAUD & CO CATERING:
Are you planning a special event? Perhaps an engagement party, a wedding anniversary, a 50th, 60th or a 21st birthday celebration? Let our private catering services help turn it into an event to remember.

WWW.BACCHUSKITCHEN.COM
WWW.EATERYONALLEN.COM
WWW.CLAUDANDCO.COM

04/27 KEITH NOWAK, TRAVELOSITY, STEPHEN PARRY, PARRY CELLARS, THE CALIFORNIA WINEMASTERS, LARRY ELDER

TRAVEL EXPERT KEITH NOWAK OFFERS INSIDER TIPS & TRICKS FOR ALL YOUR TRAVEL QUESTIONS

How Can I Get the Best Deal on a Flight? How Can I Get a Discounted  Rate for a Great Hotel Room?

As Summer Approaches, Keith Can Discuss the Most Popular Destinations and Hidden Gems, the Best Times to Travel and Helpful Hints to Save Money and Book Vacations with Ease

Summer is just around the corner, but it's not too late to plan an unforgettable summer vacation.  Whether it's a nearby weekend getaway or an exotic tropical escape, travel expert Keith Nowak can answer all your travel-related questions. Ask Keith about this year's most popular, trendiest destinations or off-the-beaten-path hidden gems. And for money-saving tips, Keith can share all his insider tricks from the best time to travel, when to book your flight and hotel, and cutting costs with vacation package deals.

As Communications Director for Travelocity, Keith is a frequently sought resource for media outlets looking for the latest travel tips and trends. With a career spanning a number of multinational companies from Finland to Taiwan, Keith has spent more than his fair share of time on the road. His travels have taken him north of the Arctic Circle, south of the equator – and just about anywhere in-between. These years of traveling has allowed Keith to learn a few tips about how to make travel just a bit easier and less costly.

WWW.TRAVELOCITY.COM


STEPHEN PARRY, OWNER OF PARRY CELLARS - THE CALIFORNIA WINEMASTERS

Parry Cellars, Napa Valley's smallest single vineyard winery, is proud to offer you our finest cabernet sauvignon wine. The wine comes from our family owned vineyard on the east side of the Silverado Trail, north of the town of St. Helena. This single vineyard, 100% cabernet sauvignon is grown on rocky soil studded with obsidian.

Depending upon Mother Nature, our small vineyard averages three tons of grapes each year, resulting in a limited release of approximately 200 cases. The vines, lovingly hand tended and stressed by the rocky soils, close spacing and an exceptional microclimate, produce a rich, elegant cabernet. Our wine is a labor of love that we are sure you will enjoy now and in the future.

VINEYARD
Our Vineyard and HomeOur small, family owned vineyard is located on the east side of the Silverado Trail, just north of the town of St. Helena in California's Napa Valley. The half-acre vineyard was planted by Dave Abreu in 1990 with over 1,200 cabernet sauvignon vines that are Spottswoode clones grafted on 5C rootstock. The vines are tightly spaced four feet in row by five feet between rows on sloping land with rocky, clay-loam soil studded with obsidian. The vines have been trained as bilateral cordons with spur pruning on a vertically shoot positioned trellis. The vines grow vigorously with the northeast-southwest row orientation reducing afternoon exposure of grape clusters that can result in sunburn.

In our continuing efforts to enhance grape quality, we have reduced irrigation and established a no-till cover crop of clovers and native grass between the vineyard rows to conserve moisture, improve soil structure, attract beneficial insects and suppress vigorous weeds. In 2004, we are proud to have had our vineyard enrolled under the Napa Green Certified Land Program by the U.S. National Marine Fisheries Service, CA Department of Fish and Game, Napa County Agricultural Commissioner and Regional Water Quality Control Board (you would expect no less from a retired U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service employee!). We completed a farm conservation plan for the vineyard which includes environmentally beneficial management practices that help protect and enhance fish and wildlife and their habitats.

Between vineyard practices and Mother Nature, our harvest averages three tons of grapes. Since 1997, our friend and vineyard manager, Paul Saviez, has done a terrific job with our grapes and has the patience of a saint dealing with Stephen, a worried vineyard owner!

WINEMAKER
Our talented winemaker hard at workWe are proud to have Andy Schweiger as our winemaker. He is also the winemaker for Schweiger Vineyards and Winery where our grapes are crushed and our wine is made. We are glad to have Andy and his family as part of the Parry Cellars family. Andy also attended our alma mater, UC Davis, where he received a degree in Viticulture and Enology. His previous experience includes work at a number of wineries, including Chateau St. Jean, ZD, and Cain. He makes our cabernet (with help but hopefully not interference from us!) in open-top fermenters that are punched down by hand in Schweiger's newly built tank room. From these fermenters, the juice flows by gravity into French oak barrels (both new and used) in the barrel room below. Thanks to Andy's talents and careful attention, we have produced a fabulous cabernet!

Be sure to check the details of our current release of Parry Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon.

ABOUT THE CALIFORNIA WINEMASTERS
The California Winemasters is a perennial Wine Spectator Top 10 Charity Wine Auction set for May 16, 2015 at Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank.  This extraordinary event showcases 50 international chefs and 75 of California’s Finest Wineries.  “Winemasters” has raised over $27 million in support of the mission of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

The CF Foundation is a nonprofit donor-supported organization dedicated to attacking cystic fibrosis from every angle.  It’s focus is to support the development of new drugs to fight the disease, improve the quality of life for those with CF and ultimately, to find a cure.

The Foundation’s drug development success has been recognized by Harvard Business School and by publications such as Forbes, Discover Magazine and The Wall Street Journal.

Make your reservations NOW for this wine tasting extraordinaire and spectacular hors d’oeuves dinner!

WWW.PARRYCELLARS.COM
CALIFORNIAWINEMASTERS.ORG


LARRY ELDER IS HONORED TODAY WITH A STAR ON THE HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME

Lawyer-turned-radio talk show host Larry Elder will receive a unique birthday present Monday, the 2,548th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Actors Jon Voight and Dean Cain will join Elder in speaking in the 11:30 a.m. ceremony next to the W Hollywood Hotel.

Laurence Allen "Larry" Elder (born April 27, 1952) is an American lawyer, writer and radio and television personality who calls himself the "Sage of South Central," a district of Los Angeles, California. His radio program The Larry Elder Show formerly aired weekdays 3 pm on talk radio 790 KABC in Los Angeles. His show began September 27, 2010; it was previously heard on the same station weekdays from 3 to 7 pm from 1994 to 2008 and was syndicated on ABC Radio Networks from 2002 to 2007 and since 2009.

WWW.LARRYELDER.COM

4/24 VANESSA MARCIL, DAYTIME EMMYS, POP TV, QUEENS OF DRAMA, JENNA SANDERS, ST. SUPÉRY ESTATE VINEYARDS & WINERY, #SAUVBLANC DAY, STEVE EVANS

FORMER GENERAL HOSPITAL REGULAR & DAYTIME EMMY® AWARD WINNING ACTRESS VANESSA MARCIL - NEW REALITY SERIES ON POP TV, QUEENS OF DRAMA

**QUEENS OF DRAMA premieres on Pop, Sunday, April 26, at 10:00 PM ET/7:00 PM PT, immediately following the network’s exclusive live broadcast of the 42nd Annual Daytime Emmy® Awards. **

On QUEENS OF DRAMA, six former daytime and primetime soap stars take control of their careers to produce and star in a new serialized drama.  Vanessa stars alongside Lindsay Hartley (“All My Children,” “Days of Our Lives”), Crystal Hunt (“Guiding Light,” “One Life to Live”), Chrystee Pharris (“Passions,” “General Hospital”) and Hunter Tylo (“The Bold and The Beautiful”) with special appearances by Donna Mills (“Knots Landing,” “Melrose Place”).

QUEENS OF DRAMA premieres on Pop, Sunday, April 26, at 10:00 PM ET/7:00 PM PT, immediately following the network’s exclusive live broadcast of the 42nd Annual Daytime Emmy® Awards.

On the Web: www.poptv.com 
Pop Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PopTelevision
Pop Twitter: https://twitter.com/PopTV
Queens of Drama Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/QueensOfDramaPop 
Queens of Drama Twitter: https://twitter.com/QueensOfDrama 


JENNA SANDERS - MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, ST. SUPÉRY ESTATE VINEYARDS & WINERY – TODAY IS #SAUVBLANC DAY

We're throwing our fifth annual global online celebration of one of our favorite varietals, Sauvignon Blanc, along with our partners and fellow Sauvignon Blanc enthusiasts, New Zealand Wine and Summertime in a Glass. #SauvBlanc Day on April 24th is an entire day for people across the world to celebrate a one of our favorite wine varietals. The “hashtag” (#) signifies a topic of conversation on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest and is the term to search for to follow the ongoing online conversation on these social media channels.

Purchase our #SauvBlanc Day Tasting Kit and invite your favorite wine loving friends over to explore our 2014 Napa Valley Estate Sauvignon Blanc, 2013 Dollarhide Estate Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, and our 2013 Napa Valley Estate Virtú - a white Bordeaux-inspired blend featuring Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. Your #SauvBlanc Day Tasting Kit also includes recipes from our winery chef, crafted to pair perfectly with each wine, as well as just about everything you need to host the tasting at home, like a corkscrew, drop stops and tasting mats. Glasses aren't included, but hey - that's what friends are for.

Stop by the winery on April 24th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. to enjoy a special #SauvBlanc Day tasting. Your #SauvBlanc Day tasting is $20 and features our 2014 Napa Valley Estate Sauvignon Blanc, 2013 Dollarhide Estate Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, and our 2013 Napa Valley Estate Virtú. If your group is six people or larger, we ask that you call in advance to reserve your tasting, 707.963.4507.

WWW.STSUPERY.COM

STEVE EVANS - "THE MOVIE GUY"

GREAT MOVIES OPENING THIS WEEKEND AND BOX OFFICE PREDICTIONS AND HOPES. FIND OUT WHAT MOVIES ARE WORTH YOUR HARD EARNED MONEY. GET SET FOR THE WEEKEND.

04/23 SUPER STYLIST GEORGE BRESCIA, LIFEHACKS: MANS WORLD, WILLIAM SHATNER, PRICELINE.COM HOLLYWOOD CHARITY HORSE SHOW

SUPER STYLIST GEORGE B.'S EASY, NO-FUSS TIPS ON HOW TO MAKEOVER YOUR MAN - LIFE HACKS: MANS WORLD

LIFE HACKS: Man’s World

Whether It’s Getting Him the Perfect Gift or Helping Him From “Average Joe”  To “Whoa, Whoa, Whoa!”

Men think of themselves as “easy to please,” and “simple!” To women, they are a wealth of mixed signals and hard-to-read reactions. But just because men baffle us doesn’t mean you have an excuse to not get them what they really want! Plus, gone are the days where a shower and a shave were the only prep a man could have. Modern hair & skin care, fashion and pampering have taken men’s style to an entirely new level, but how can you be sure what is right for the man in your life? Style Expert George B. is here to help makeover your man with no-fuss solutions so simple and striking, he will take credit for it himself!

George “B. Style” Brescia is a top-tier NYC-based stylist and image consultant who has appeared as a resident fashion expert on Today show, Good Day New York, NY 1, New York Live, and more. He has also been featured on Blog Talk radio and NPR’s Marketplace. In addition to penning a regular column for Resident and Venue magazines, George has just written a new personal lifestyle and fashion book entitled “Change Your Clothing! Change Your Life...because you can’t go naked”.


WILLIAM SHATNER - PRICELINE.COM HOLLYWOOD CHARITY HORSE SHOW, SPONSORED BY WELLS FARGO” SLATED FOR APRIL 25, 2015

REO SPEEDWAGON’S KEVIN CRONIN TO JOIN WILLIAM SHATNER FOR THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE “PRICELINE.COM HOLLYWOOD CHARITY HORSE SHOW, SPONSORED BY WELLS FARGO” SLATED FOR APRIL 25, 2015

BENEFITING AHEAD WITH HORSES AND OTHER LOCAL CHILDREN’S CHARITIES, REO SPEEDWAGON’S KEVIN CRONIN & BAND MATES, BRYAN HITTS & DAVE AMATO TO PERFORM LIVE FOR AN EVENING OF DINNER & MUSIC!

Organizers for the 25th Anniversary of the William Shatner Priceline.com Hollywood Charity Horse Show, Sponsored by Wells Fargo, announced today that REO Speedwagon’s Kevin Cronin accompanied by band mates Bryan Hitt and Dave Amato will perform live at the event to be held on April 25, 2015.  The Priceline.com Hollywood Charity Horse Show, Sponsored by Wells Fargo celebrates its 25th year of fundraising with a spectacular affair at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center, 480 Riverside Drive, Burbank, California.  Guests will be treated to an exciting arena show and a world-class reining competition, followed by a western dinner catered by STONEFIRE Grill. The evening concludes with a special LIVE performance by REO Speedwagon’s Kevin Cronin with band members Bryan Hitt and Dave Amato.

Proceeds from the event will benefit special-needs children’s charities across the city of Los Angeles including: AHEAD With Horses, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Hollenbeck Police Activities League (PAL), St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital®, The Painted Turtle and others.

“Over the last 25 years, we have been able to help thousands of young Angelinos thanks to the support we receive from our generous sponsors and attendees,” commented William Shatner. “We are so fortunate to have the great talent of REO Speedwagon’s Kevin Cronin with band members Bryan Hitt and Dave Amato for our entertainment this year. They are absolutely terrific and generous with their time and support.”

WHAT:  25th ANNIVERSARY OF THE “WILLIAM SHATNER, PRICELINE.COM 
               HOLLYWOOD CHARITY HORSE SHOW SPONSORED BY WELLS FARGO”

WHEN: SATURDAY APRIL 25, 2015

• 4:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. – Press ‘Meet & Greet’ 
• 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. - Arena Show, which is free to the public
• 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. - Western Dinner, Entertainment by REO Speedwagon’s Kevin Cronin   with band members, Bryan Hitt & Dave Amato and Live Auction by William Shatner, 

WHERE:  Los Angeles Equestrian Center, 480 Riverside Drive, Burbank, CA 

WWW.HORSESHOW.ORG

04/22 CHEF WILLIAM S. BLOXSOM-CARTER, BEACON-VATEL HOSPITALITY GROUP, THE CANYON VILLA BED AND BREAKFAST, LEE AND BOB CASAZZA, BIG MAMMA'S ITALIAN – AMERICAN COOKBOOK: EASY AND DELICIOUS RECIPES FROM OUR FAMILY

OUR SPECIAL CO-HOST TODAY IS CHEF WILLIAM S. BLOXSOM-CARTER, FOUNDER OF BEACON-VATEL HOSPITALITY GROUP AND THE NEW OWNER OF THE CANYON VILLA BED AND BREAKFAST

Chef William S. Bloxsom-Carter previously worked as the Executive Chef, and Food and Beverage Director for the Playboy Mansion West for over two and half decades. A frequent wine judge he constantly looks for wines to pair with his foods for the multitude of foods he presents. Chef Carter has prepared winery dinners in Sonoma County, Napa Valley, Paso Robles and the Santa Ynez Valley as well as special events for high-profile clients throughout the United States, focusing on the importance of food and wine pairings and extraordinary hospitality service. Additionally, Chef Carter is a recurring featured guest on numerous radio shows syndicated nationwide describing and promoting California wines and foods.

ABOUT CATERING SERVICE:
CELEBRATIONS, GATHERINGS & RETREATS - Make your event an unforgettable experience. The natural beauty of your home, the finest wines and some of the most amazing culinary offerings make Beacon Vatel the ideal caterer for your special occasion. Our professional services provide an ideal experience for corporate retreats and business, family and friend gatherings. The Beacon Vatel Culinary team under the leadership of Chef Carter can create the perfect menu for your event, from light passed hors d’oeuvres, a full set buffet, or a multi-course menu, all paired with your wines or wines from Chef Carter’s extensive network of wine purveyors.

WWW.BEACONVATEL.COM

ABOUT THE CANYON VILLA:
The Canyon Villa, where weary wine lovers revive

Like an Italian villa perched on a Tuscan hillside, the Canyon Villa bed and breakfast pampers wine lovers touring Paso Robles wineries or couples seeking a charming retreat. The Canyon Villa offers an intimate setting, lavish amenities, fine food and an ideal location.

At the Canyon Villa, we offer only four guest rooms, each uniquely decorated and each appointed with luxurious extras such as spa tubs and lush towels. You can enjoy your gourmet breakfast in the courtyard or our dining room.

We also offer a cozy great room for relaxing with other guests, and a wine tasting with hors d'oeuvres every afternoon between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. In the summer, enjoy your wine and appetizers in our lovely shaded courtyard, with its trickling fountain and evening breezes.

Beyond the elegant setting of our inn, take a leisurely stroll through our eleven acres while admiring the views. Visit the local wineries, and then enjoy an evening meal at one of Paso Robles' fine restaurants. The Canyon Villa is also the ideal bed and breakfast for day trips to other locales, such as Hearst Castle or Cambria's art galleries.

Indulge your love of wine or your love of each other. Plan a romantic getaway to charming Paso Robles, and plan to indulge in the intimacy and luxury of the Canyon Villa.

The Canyon Villa Bed & Breakfast
1455 Kiler Canyon Road
Paso Robles, CA 93446
805-238-3362

WWW.THECANYONVILLA.COM


LEE AND BOB CASAZZA - BIG MAMMA'S ITALIAN – AMERICAN COOKBOOK: EASY AND DELICIOUS RECIPES FROM OUR FAMILY   

The author and photographer, Lee Casazza, has been perfecting Italian-American recipes for over 47 years. Her knowledge of Italian cooking and kitchen experience offers a refreshing new look at North America's favorite food. Big Mamma's Italian-American Cookbook is a collection of 116 recipes and 238 pages created by four generations of the Casazza, Noviello, Lapetina, and Greco families.

Lee Casazza was the lucky recipient of the family's cooking secrets and homemade meals. All were passed down or inspired by her husband's great grandmother, Teresa Lapetina, affectionately known as Big Mamma . Lee's cookbook also includes decades of personal research, travel, Italian chefs, restaurants, and hours of kitchen trial-and-error.

This is a personal story about Lee's passion for Italian cooking, family, and sharing with others. Big Mamma's Italian-American Cookbook is an easy-to-follow guide on preparing well-known traditional dishes and many new recipes created by Lee. Recipes are presented in glorious color and introduced with background antidotes. Menu chapters are highlighted with a wonderful collection of family photos over the years.

Lee Casazza's work in this book is equal to more famous cookbook authors. She does more than chronicle the fusion of old world Italian recipes into new world versions. Lee contributes to today's on-going evolution of Italian-American cuisine. The result is one of the most appealing and original cookbooks ever published on this topic.

Big Mamma's Italian-American Cookbook is also distributed by Henschel Haus Publishing, Inc. It is available in both hard-cover and Ebook.

ABOUT LEE:
Born and raised on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., Lee Casazza is a genuine "foodie" who loves to cook. Her interest in cooking started with her family's southern background; growing up, her favorite place to be was in the kitchen helping her mom prepare their many southern-style recipes.

In 1967, Lee married Robert Paul Casazza, and her love of Italian cooking began. Bob and Lee would often drive to Richmond, Virginia, for Sunday dinners at the home of his grandparents, Ernest and Elisabeth Novello. This spot was a favorite destination for the extended family, with as many as twenty relatives, attending. Sunday gravy and homemade pastas were prepared by Elisabeth, affectionately known as "Mamaw." It was where the entire family experienced "Old World" and "New World" recipes developed over many years, helping to define what Italian-American cooking has become today.

Lee is the fortunate recipient of recipes and secrets shared by both Mamaw and Bob's mother Marie, who both had a firsthand knowledge of all the recipes passed down by generations of the Casazza and Noviello families. Over the years, Italian food has become an important part of Lee's life. New cookbooks, articles, famous chefs, restaurants, and travels to Italy have been constant inspirations. These exposures to the world of Italian food preparation have allowed her to develop her own unique techniques.

In Washington, D.C., Lee had a successful career in real estate. After the family moved to Seattle
in 1994, she was ready for new challenges. Lee designed and built a home and cottage on an
island in the Pacific Northwest; she was both a carpenter and the general contractor on the projects. Today, Lee is an avid volunteer genealogist and an active member of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

Lee created "Big Mamma's Italian-American Cooking" blog in March of 2011. This blog has
developed into an ongoing collection of recipes passed down by the Casazza and Noviello families, with frequent new additions from Lee. It also includes historical family photos, recipe origins, and helpful preparation tips. Her blog has attracted followers from countries around the world.

As the author, chef, photographer, and researcher, Lee has put her "Italian heart" into this cookbook. Her love for her Italian-American family and her culinary devotion to Italian-American cooking has combined to produce the most delicious collection of recipes you'll ever find.
What truly sets this cookbook apart are the talents of the four ladies in this Italian-America family. Meet Teresa Lapetina Greco, "Big Mamma," Elisabeth Greco Noviello, "Mamaw," Marie Noviello Casazza, and Lee Casazza.

Lee is currently working on a second cookbook titled "Izetta Southern Cooking."

WWW.LEECASAZZACOOKING.COM

04/21 LARRY LIPSON, CHEF GABE GARCIA, THE CALIFORNIA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL, JESSIE ARTIGUE, BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS BEST NEW PRODUCT AWARDS

LARRY LIPSON – AFFORDABLE WINE REPORT

For fifty years Larry Lipson was the food critic for the Los Angeles Daily News and now reports from Florida weekly with his thoughts and favorite picks for Food & Wine.  His lovely Wife Lillian is also on hand at the Lipson Institute for advanced wine studies.


CHEF GABE GARCIA – HEAD CHEF AT TIERRA SUR AT HERZOG WINE CELLARS - TALKING ABOUT THE CALIFORNIA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

California Strawberry Festival
Saturday & Sunday
May 16 and 17 2015
10am – 6:30pm

For more info go to: STRAWBERRY-FEST.ORG

More info on Chef Gabe Garcia
Since graduating from the Los Angeles Art Institute, Santa Monica in 2001, Gabe Garcia has shared his skill and passion with some of the top companies in the hospitality and Foodservice industries. A Southern California native, Gabe has infused a deep respect for local agriculture with his artistry and modern interpretations of American classic cuisine.

For the past seven years, Chef Gabe has served Tierra Sur at Herzog Wine Cellars under the mentorship of recognized Chef Todd Aarons. Now as head chef, Gabe brings bold and exciting ideas to life–creating inspired New American cuisine while using only ingredients sourced fresh from local farmers. Through inspired combinations of flavor, color and ingredients, Tierra Sur continues to receive national recognition as one of the finest restaurants in Southern California.

“For me, cooking is an expression of the relationship that I have with the growers, with my team and with the people who enjoy our food. I want to honor all of the hard work that it takes to grow and produce these ingredients; I want to reflect that care and dedication in the effort that my team and I put into each dish. Our guests have chosen to make special memories in our restaurant and in each bite – we want to capture the honor that it brings us. It is a hand-to-hand relationship, from the farmers, to our restaurant, to our guests. It puts an emotion into the food – a passion that our guests can taste.”  - Head Chef, Gabriel Garcia

WWW.HERZOGWINECELLARS.COM


JESSIE ARTIGUE - BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS BEST NEW PRODUCT AWARDS ANNOUNCES 2015 WINNERS AS VOTED BY MORE THAN 70,000 CONSUMERS

Companion BrandSpark/BHG American Shopper Study Reveals 73% of Americans Will Pay More For New, Innovative Products...

Better Homes and Gardens, along with leading market research firm BrandSpark International, have announced the winners of the 2015 Better Homes and Gardens Best New Product Awards (www.BestNewProductAwards.com.)  The Best New Product Awards (BNPAs) is the leading consumer-voted CPG awards program in North America, honoring consumer products in the categories of Beauty, Food & Beverage, Health & Personal Care, Household and Kids.

The winning products were determined solely by more than 70,000 consumers who participated in an extensive nationwide survey, conducted by independent marketing research firm BrandSpark International in partnership with Better Homes and Gardens. The 2015 survey had 294 entries and 93 winning products across a range of categories. Better Homes and Gardens will showcase the winners and select insights within its print, broadcast and digital properties.

For 2015, there are 93 winning products and in interviews on Tuesday, April 21st, Jessie Artigue, Contributing Editor of Better Homes and Gardens will share some of her favorite winners to help you shop smarter and discover the most innovative products that get results.

ABOUT JESSIE:
As a successful on-air personality, trends forecaster and fashion/lifestyle writer, Jessie Artigue joined BHG as a Contributing Editor in 2014. Her popular fashion and lifestyle blog, StyleAndPepper.com, features creative advice for a flavorful life with inspirations on beauty and style, healthy eating, entertaining, DIY projects, and more.

WWW.BESTNEWPRODUCTAWARDS.COM

04/20

OUR SPECIAL CO-HOST TODAY IS CHEF WILLIAM S. BLOXSOM-CARTER, FOUNDER OF BEACON-VATEL HOSPITALITY GROUP AND THE NEW OWNER OF THE CANYON VILLA BED AND BREAKFAST

Chef William S. Bloxsom-Carter previously worked as the Executive Chef, and Food and Beverage Director for the Playboy Mansion West for over two and half decades. A frequent wine judge he constantly looks for wines to pair with his foods for the multitude of foods he presents. Chef Carter has prepared winery dinners in Sonoma County, Napa Valley, Paso Robles and the Santa Ynez Valley as well as special events for high-profile clients throughout the United States, focusing on the importance of food and wine pairings and extraordinary hospitality service. Additionally, Chef Carter is a recurring featured guest on numerous radio shows syndicated nationwide describing and promoting California wines and foods.

ABOUT CATERING SERVICE:
CELEBRATIONS, GATHERINGS & RETREATS - Make your event an unforgettable experience. The natural beauty of your home, the finest wines and some of the most amazing culinary offerings make Beacon Vatel the ideal caterer for your special occasion. Our professional services provide an ideal experience for corporate retreats and business, family and friend gatherings. The Beacon Vatel Culinary team under the leadership of Chef Carter can create the perfect menu for your event, from light passed hors d’oeuvres, a full set buffet, or a multi-course menu, all paired with your wines or wines from Chef Carter’s extensive network of wine purveyors.

WWW.BEACONVATEL.COM

ABOUT THE CANYON VILLA:
The Canyon Villa, where weary wine lovers revive

Like an Italian villa perched on a Tuscan hillside, the Canyon Villa bed and breakfast pampers wine lovers touring Paso Robles wineries or couples seeking a charming retreat. The Canyon Villa offers an intimate setting, lavish amenities, fine food and an ideal location.

At the Canyon Villa, we offer only four guest rooms, each uniquely decorated and each appointed with luxurious extras such as spa tubs and lush towels. You can enjoy your gourmet breakfast in the courtyard or our dining room.

We also offer a cozy great room for relaxing with other guests, and a wine tasting with hors d'oeuvres every afternoon between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. In the summer, enjoy your wine and appetizers in our lovely shaded courtyard, with its trickling fountain and evening breezes.

Beyond the elegant setting of our inn, take a leisurely stroll through our eleven acres while admiring the views. Visit the local wineries, and then enjoy an evening meal at one of Paso Robles' fine restaurants. The Canyon Villa is also the ideal bed and breakfast for day trips to other locales, such as Hearst Castle or Cambria's art galleries.

Indulge your love of wine or your love of each other. Plan a romantic getaway to charming Paso Robles, and plan to indulge in the intimacy and luxury of the Canyon Villa.

The Canyon Villa Bed & Breakfast
1455 Kiler Canyon Road
Paso Robles, CA 93446
805-238-3362

WWW.THECANYONVILLA.COM


LEE AND BOB CASAZZA - BIG MAMMA'S ITALIAN – AMERICAN COOKBOOK: EASY AND DELICIOUS RECIPES FROM OUR FAMILY   

The author and photographer, Lee Casazza, has been perfecting Italian-American recipes for over 47 years. Her knowledge of Italian cooking and kitchen experience offers a refreshing new look at North America's favorite food. Big Mamma's Italian-American Cookbook is a collection of 116 recipes and 238 pages created by four generations of the Casazza, Noviello, Lapetina, and Greco families.

Lee Casazza was the lucky recipient of the family's cooking secrets and homemade meals. All were passed down or inspired by her husband's great grandmother, Teresa Lapetina, affectionately known as Big Mamma . Lee's cookbook also includes decades of personal research, travel, Italian chefs, restaurants, and hours of kitchen trial-and-error.

This is a personal story about Lee's passion for Italian cooking, family, and sharing with others. Big Mamma's Italian-American Cookbook is an easy-to-follow guide on preparing well-known traditional dishes and many new recipes created by Lee. Recipes are presented in glorious color and introduced with background antidotes. Menu chapters are highlighted with a wonderful collection of family photos over the years.

Lee Casazza's work in this book is equal to more famous cookbook authors. She does more than chronicle the fusion of old world Italian recipes into new world versions. Lee contributes to today's on-going evolution of Italian-American cuisine. The result is one of the most appealing and original cookbooks ever published on this topic.

04/17 LARRY VAN AALST, THE BAY AREA TRAVEL AND WINE AUCTION, JOAN KRAMER, IN THE COMPANY OF LEGENDS

OUR SPECIAL CO-HOST TODAY IS LARRY VAN AALST – HOST OF CRN’S WHAT’S COOKIN’ ON WINE: THE SONOMA REPORT WILL FILL US IN ON ALL THE EXCITING THINGS GOING ON IN THE SONOMA AREA

LARRY HOSTS A WEEKLY PROGRAM ON CRN AND IS AN EXPERT ON WINE WHO IS SOUGHT AFTER FOR, TASTING AND MAJOR SOMMELIER EVENTS IN THE SAN FRANCISCO AREA. HE COMMENTS ON THE INDUSTRY, WHATS GOING ON IN THE SOMNOMA AREA AND HIS THOUGHTS ABOUT WINE.

DON'T MISS THE BAY AREA TRAVEL AND WINE AUCTION!

KRCB.ORG

The online portion of The Bay Area Travel and Wine Auction is open.  The auction runs from April 1, 2015 to June 21, 2015. Proceeds from the auction go to support the programming of this PBS/NPR station in the local Bay Area.

Auction items range from exotic vacation getaways to donated items guaranteed to delight and surprise. So, tell your friends, family, and community. Let the bidding begin! Get your Max Bid in early to Support KRCB the community NPR/PBS station in the Bay Area... All items in this auction will be part of a series of televised auction events.

Top Items
• 5133 - Five Nights for 2, Your Choice of Hotel - Small Luxury Hotels of the World
• 5147 - Three Nights for Two, Ocean View Room - Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, HI
• 5220 - Eight Day Introduction to Cuba Tour for 2 with Airfare - Cuba Explorer, Surrey BC
• 5155 - Four Adult One Day Park Hopper Tickets - Disneyland Resort, Anaheim
• 5221 - Village Wine Club Membership - Pali Wine Company, Lompoc and Santa Barbara
• 5244 - Three Two Night Stays for 2 at any Ayres Hotel - Ayres Hotels
• 5095 - Two Nights for up to 8, 3 Bedroom Cabin - The Redwoods in Yosemite, Wawona
• 5122 - Two Nights Ocatilla Club Accommodations for 2 - Arizona Biltmore
• 5033 - Two Nights for Two - The Sunburst Calistoga
• 5056 - Two Nights for 2 Mid-Week with Golf - Benbow Historic Inn, Garberville


JOAN KRAMER  – AUTHOR, IN THE COMPANY OF LEGENDS

In The Company Of Legends (Beaufort Books, April 2015) is an insiders’ view of Hollywood’s famous and powerful: behind the scenes stories of Katharine Hepburn, Johnny Carson, Frank Sinatra, Lew R. Wasserman, Richard Dreyfuss, Ronald Reagan, Nancy Reagan, Paul Newman, Joanne Woodward, Jane Fonda, Elizabeth Taylor, Audrey Hepburn, James Stewart, and Bette Davis, among others.

Starting with their award-winning profiles of Fred Astaire in 1980, Joan Kramer and David Heeley produced film portraits of the lives and careers of many Hollywood legends, establishing a reputation for finding the un-findable, persuading the reluctant, and maintaining unique relationships long after the end credits rolled. Their stories of the productions and the personalities involved are amusing, sometimes moving, often revealing, and have never been told before.

The book has already received advance praise from Robert Osborne, host of Turner Classic Movies and talk-show host, Dick Cavett:

“Thank you, David Heeley and Joan Kramer for giving us one of the best reasons ever for curling up with a book. After their treating us to some of the best, most literate and entertaining hours of television (including Katharine Hepburn: All About Me, Bacall on Bogart, The John Garfield Story, The Adventures of Errol Flynn, and numerous other TV specials) they now offer us a book I never wanted to end, chock full of constant surprises. In The Company Of Legends is a king’s ransom of fascinating stories about colorful, bigger than life people we know but don’t know. The big bonus is that it’s a book about dazzling personalities told by people who actually knew the celebrities they write about, worked with them and, further, socialized with them, aware of their foibles and strengths from first-hand knowledge, not hearsay. That’s something both rare and refreshing in books today. This one deserves a high spot on your ‘must read’ booklist for the year.” --- Robert Osborne

“This delicious account of the greatly talented and productive Kramer and Heeley’s adventures, misadventures, headaches and thrills among their illustriously famous subjects is a joy to read. The quirks and maddening eccentricities of such greatly gifted giants as Frank Sinatra, Katharine Hepburn, James Stewart, et al., are all here on delightfully entertaining -- and often startling -- display. In The Company Of Legends is so hard to put down I ate with one hand while reading it.” -- Dick Cavett
In The Company of Legends is filled with more than 100 rare and candid photos of the above mentioned stars.

About the Authors:
Joan Kramer and David Heeley have received five Emmy awards, twenty Emmy nominations and many other national and international honors.

David Heeley was born in the north of England. After graduating from Oxford University in 1961, he joined the BBC in London, initially as an engineer, eventually becoming a staff director. In 1969 he moved to New York, where he worked first for public television’s WNET, and later Top Hat Productions, which he owned with Joan Kramer. He has received many awards, including six Emmys, has been nominated for three Directors Guild of America awards, and has taught a course on directing at New York University’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies. He was executive producer of the WNET/PBS series Nature from its premiere in 1982 until 1991, and has produced a number of acclaimed documentary profiles together with Joan Kramer.

Born in Chicago, IL, Joan Kramer was a ballet dancer and assistant choreographer before starting her career in film and television production. She was an assistant talent co-ordinator for The Dick Cavett Show, associate producer for a Candid Camera Special, and writer for Live from Lincoln Center. She then joined the staff of WNET where she began her long producing partnership with David Heeley. For public television and later for their own company, Top Hat Productions, they documented the lives of some of the most famous and well-respected personalities in the entertainment industry, and maintained personal relationships with many of them, their families and friends. These programs were recognized as high-quality, definitive film portraits, which revitalized the genre and made it a mainstay of television programming.

04/16 DR. JOEL FISHER, LA WINE FEST, JENNIFER CONNOR, MUSTARD GIRL ALL AMERICAN MUSTARDS

DR. JOEL FISHER – FOUNDER, LA WINE FEST

May 30-31, 2015 at the Raleigh Studios in Hollywood

The LAWineFest is proud to be in its 10th successful year. This popular event blazed a trail in L.A. to bring wine and people together in a fun, inviting and accessible way. Now a local institution, we’re known to reliably deliver a sun-kissed event that balances fun, exploration and education. Our goal is to help people explore their taste in a festive environment. Our unofficial motto: Drink what you like; Like what you drink!

Dr. Joel M. Fisher – Founder & CEO
Joel M. Fisher, PhD writes or has written for the Culinary Connection of the Chefs de Cuisine Association of California, for the Beverly Hills Courier, and since 2010 for the Underground Wine Letter. From 2007-2009 he taught at Cordon Bleu in Pasadena. Prior to that, he was the wine instructor for the Culinary Arts Department of the Art Institute of California — Los Angeles for seven years and is a founding partner of the educational Wine Vine and Dine, which conducts programs throughout Southern California and Wine Discoveries. Net. A Sommelier for the Escoffier Association of Southern California, he is also a member of The Tasting Panel (formerly the Bon Appetit Tasting Panel) and is a Wine Host for CRN’s What’s Cooking Show.

Dr. Fisher is a member of the Society of Wine Educators, The Circle of Wine Writers (UK), and the International Federation of Wine and Spirits Writers. Awarded a Wine Enthusiast Media Scholarship for 2005 at the Culinary Institute of America, he is the author of the Wine Work Book, now in its 6th edition.

Dr. Fisher co-led a program for chefs and culinary students to the Culinary Olympics in Erfurt, Germany and to wineries in Burgundy and Champagne in 2005. In June 2006 he again led a program, “Wine and Cuisine of Iberia,” to Spain and Portugal. Future programs to wine regions are in the works.

Sara Fisher Chapin – Head of Program Development & Strategic Relationships
Sara Fisher Chapin is pleased to have joined the family business in 2012. She has an extensive history as a senior leader in small business development and brand marketing.

WWW.LAWINEFEST.COM


JENNIFER CONNOR - FOUNDER OF MUSTARD GIRL ALL AMERICAN MUSTARDS

MUSTARD GIRL ALL AMERICAN MUSTARDS™ HIT STORES NATIONWIDE

See How the Little Gal from Wisconsin Beat the Odds & Is Taking On the Big Boys

Mustard Girl All American Mustards™—an artisanal brand produced in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin—is making its debut in leading grocery retailers from national box stores to the local grocer and neighborhood deli’s. One hundred percent U.S.-made, each mustard variety is a product created from the original recipe, which was originally crafted by hand in small batches on a farm in rural Wisconsin but this exciting new mustard might never have made it to the shelves without Jennifer Connor, the brand’s founder. She really could not imagine a world without these delicious mustards and her determination to bring them to market without knowledge of the consumer packaged goods industry and in a highly competitive category where few new brands survive is a truly an inspirational story.

Mustard Girl All American Mustards began with Sweet N’ Spicey Honey Mustard and has since grown to a full portfolio of flavors that includes Stoneground Deli (spicy brown), Sweet N’ Fancy Yellow, American Dijon and Zesty Horseradish. All varieties are all-natural, contain no preservatives, are gluten-free, fat-free, low in sodium, Kosher, and contain no high fructose corn syrup.

With fresh, bold flavors, one taste is enough to realize this is not your typical bottled mustard. Each bottle of Mustard Girl All American Mustards features an illustration of a smiling blond country girl—and she really does exist. Jennifer Connor is the Mustard Girl, and her story reflects a commitment to delivering a premium product regardless of the challenges she faced in the industry.

Farm-to-Tables All Across America – the story behind the brand
The Mustard Girl story actually begins with a mustard man. While attending the University of Wisconsin, Jennifer discovered a supper club that used the best mustard she’d ever tasted. She learned that the recipe—made using the same Sweet & Spicey Honey recipe she now uses to make Mustard Girl’s version—was homemade by then 80-year-old Dave Rendall at his farm. When Jennifer found out that he was about to retire, she couldn’t imagine the world without his mustard and vowed to take over the business. Despite Jennifer’s persistence, Dave refused to turn over the recipes because he felt her Art History degree was no match for the highly competitive business world. Feeling defeated, she retreated to her family’s cabin in rural Wisconsin to contemplate her future. She felt starting this mustard company was her mission in life, but was looking for confirmation. Jennifer decided to go to church, telling herself that if the preacher mentioned “yellow” or something of the like, she’d know her mustard mission was meant to be; otherwise, she would give up her dream.

What happened next was serendipitous, but true. That day, the preacher’s sermon was about the parable of the mustard seed. From that moment on, Jennifer became more tenacious than ever. Over time, she convinced Dave Rendall to teach her everything he knew about mustard and to share his recipes with her. The impact of the parable on her life has also inspired Jennifer to give back to the community via her contributions to women’s and children’s charities. The rest, as they say, is history.  Mustard Girl All American Mustards have a suggested retail price of $3.29 per 12-ounce bottle.

About Mustard Girl All American Mustards 
Mustard Girl All American Mustards are an artisanal brand of mustards made in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin. The company started small, like a mustard seed, and is now available in over 2500 stores and restaurants nationwide.  Additionally the mustards are the official mustards of Norwegian Cruise Lines Burger Bars. Mustard Girl All American Mustards are best known for their distinctive fresh, bold flavor and come in five varieties: Sweet N’ Spicey Honey, Stoneground Deli, Sweet N’ Fancy Yellow, American Dijon, and Zesty Horseradish. For more information, visit www.mustardgirl.com.

WWW.MUSTARDGIRL.COM 

04/15 LARRY LIPSON, PAULEY PERRETTE, DONNA BELL’S BAKESHOP: RECIPES AND STORIES OF FAMILY, FRIENDS, AND FOOD

LARRY LIPSON – AFFORDABLE WINE REPORT

For fifty years Larry Lipson was the food critic for the Los Angeles Daily News and now reports from Florida weekly with his thoughts and favorite picks for Food & Wine.  His lovely Wife Lillian is also on hand at the Lipson Institute for advanced wine studies.


PAULEY PERRETTE – TALKING ABOUT HER NEW BOOK, DONNA BELL’S BAKESHOP: RECIPES AND STORIES OF FAMILY, FRIENDS, AND FOOD

The heartwarming story of how NCIS star Pauley Perrette and her two best friends created a Southern-style bake shop in Manhattan—a celebration of love and friendship with gorgeous photographs and delicious recipes.

Nestled in the heart of midtown New York is a little shop with a big story. An all-natural bake shop that specializes in Southern baked goods, Donna Bell’s is owned by Pauley Perrette, the actress who plays Abby Sciuto on CBS’s NCIS, and her two best friends, Darren Greenblatt and Matthew Sandusky. It was named in honor of Pauley’s late mother, who is the beloved inspiration for everything they bake.

It all started in 1993, when Pauley met Darren in New York City’s Hell’s Kitchen, just blocks away from where the shop is currently located. The two became inseparable friends and Pauley’s Southern mom would welcome Darren to their home with mouthwatering treats. Darren loved this food and soon left his successful career in fashion to open a food truck that sold Southern desserts at the Jersey Shore. Eventually he wanted to expand and turned to Pauley and their friend Matthew—who worked in the Los Angeles food industry—for help. Soon Matthew was on his way to New York to open Donna Bell’s Bake Shop with Pauley and Darren.

With recipes for favorites like buttermilk biscuits, chocolate chip-almond scones, and peach streusel muffins; personal photographs from Pauley, Darren, Matthew, and Donna Bell herself; this is the story how one fantastic bake shop brings warmth and happiness—one treat at a time—to the urban jungle that is New York City.

04/14 SIMON MAJUMDAR, FED, WHITE, AND BLUE: FINDING AMERICA WITH MY FORK, JON CRYER, SO THAT HAPPENED: A MEMOIR

FOOD NETWORK PERSONALITY AND FOOD WRITER SIMON MAJUMDAR - AUTHOR OF FED, WHITE, AND BLUE: FINDING AMERICA WITH MY FORK

Food Network Personality and Food Writer Simon Majumdar sets out across the United States to discover what it means to be American, one bite at a time!

Host of Cutthroat Kitchen and author of Good Eats, Simon Majumdar is not exactly who you might envision when you think of a typical immigrant to the United States. As he says, “I’m well rested, not particularly poor, and the only time I ever encounter “huddled masses” is in line at Costco.” But immigrate he did when he met his future wife, and he was content with a green card until he came across a burly TSA agent who asked him if he ever planned on making it official. As someone who is very proud of his heritage, he wanted becoming an American to mean something, and so he turned to the thing he knows best: food.

Simon dives headfirst into the food cultures that make up America—brewing beer, picking vegetables, working at a food bank, and even finding himself, very reluctantly, at a tailgate.  FED, WHITE, AND BLUE is a warm, funny, and inspiring portrait of becoming American.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
SIMON MAJUMDAR is a food writer, broadcaster, and author of Eat My Globe and Eating for Britain. He is a recurring judge on Iron Chef, The Next Iron Chef, and Cutthroat Kitchen. The fine living correspondent for AskMen.com, he writes regular features for the Food Network website and was one of the voices behind the Dos Hermanos blog, which GQ called “Michelin starred food blogging.” He lives in Los Angeles, CA.


JON CRYER - AWARD WINNING ACTOR & AUTHOR OF, “SO THAT HAPPENED: A MEMOIR”                    

From Broadway stages to movie screens…From Duckie to Alan Harper…Emmy Award-winning actor and pop culture icon Jon Cryer shares stories from his life and career in a sharply-observed and candidly funny memoir SO THAT HAPPENED.

Sporting a 1950s-era pompadour, white pointy shoes, John Lennon sunglasses and colorful patterned vests, Jon Cryer stole the hearts of moviegoers around the world as Molly Ringwald’s loveable, loyal, and quirky best friend “Duckie” in the 1986 classic Pretty in Pink.  And, in the process, he became a pop culture icon.  But that’s not where Cryer’s story begins or ends.  In his revealing, heartfelt, and entertaining memoir SO THAT HAPPENED (New American Library Hardcover; April 7, 2015; $27.95), Jon Cryer reflects for the first time on his life in show business—both onstage and off.

Growing up on Manhattan’s Upper West Side in a theater family (both his parents were actors), Cryer was bit by the acting bug early.  A self-proclaimed “awkward” kid in high school, Jon spent his summers at the legendary Stagedoor Manor theater camp in the Catskills, alongside fellow would-be stars like Robert Downey Jr.  At Stagedoor Manor, awkward was normal and the camp’s freedom allowed Jon to hone his craft and really shine.  In SO THAT HAPPENED, Cryer recounts his sometimes bumpy, often hilarious journey from theater camp to Broadway, where his first role in Torch Song Trilogy came about, in part, because of his resemblance to actor Matthew Broderick.  A Los Angeles production of that same play led to Cryer’s first movie job, acting for legendary film director Robert Altman.

Cryer’s eventual casting as “Duckie” alongside Molly Ringwald and Andrew McCarthy in what was to be one of John Hughes’ most beloved films opened doors he never could have imagined—but did not lead to overnight success or full inclusion in Hollywood’s cadre of popular young actors, the media-coined “Brat Pack.”  Instead, he navigated the constant ups-and-downs in a turbulent industry, finding work in a series of film, television, and theater projects that took the actor from L.A. to London to Coney Island.

Following several failed sitcoms, Cryer’s biggest success came when he was cast as Alan Harper in the longest-running and most talked-about sitcom in recent history, Two and a Half Men.  The show ran for twelve seasons, and Cryer won two Emmy Awards for his work.  

With the instincts of a natural storyteller, Cryer shares his favorite anecdotes from three decades in front of the camera—from his first lead role in a movie alongside Demi Moore to his position as one of the highest paid men in television.  The actor’s wit and charm fill every page of  SO THAT HAPPENED as Cryer shares never-before told stories from his career, including:

• Life in the theater, including an early lesson in how the industry works when he was fired from one Broadway job and hired for another—on the same day
• Candid details about his relationship with Two and a Half Men co-star Charlie Sheen
• His first Hollywood romance with actress Demi Moore on the set of No Small Affair
• A backstage look at the classic John Hughes movie Pretty in Pink 
• The roles he missed out on, including Chandler Bing on Friends, Mr. Pink in Quentin Tarantino’s breakthrough movie Reservoir Dogs, Daniel in The Karate Kid, and cocky young soldier Bunny in Oliver Stone’s Platoon.
• The final years of Two and a Half Men, sharing the stage with Ashton Kutcher

In SO THAT HAPPENED Jon Cryer opens up about friendships and relationships, pays tribute to his mentors, and offers readers a front-row seat as he humorously reminisces about his experiences as a triumphant—and good-humored—survivor of the often unpredictable world of showbiz.

04/13 CAROLYN STARK, THE SONOMA COUNTY VINTNERS, SONOMA COUNTY BARREL AUCTION, DR. BRINKMAN, CALIFORNIA’S WATER RESTRICTIONS

CAROLYN STARK, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE SONOMA COUNTY VINTNERS - SONOMA COUNTY BARREL AUCTION

SONOMA COUNTY VINTNERS ANNOUNCES WINE LOTS FOR INAUGURAL BARREL AUCTION

The Sonoma County Vintners invites members of the licensed wine trade to preview the never before, never again limited production wines that will be available for purchase at the inaugural Sonoma County Barrel Auction.  Sixty-seven unique wine lots representing 12 Sonoma County appellations and cultivated in Sonoma County’s most highly acclaimed vineyards will be up for grabs at the one-day-only auction. Descriptions of all wine lots can be viewed at www.sonomawine.com/barrelauction/wines.

These specially chosen wines were curated in blind tastings held in February and March by a hand-selected panel of six influential Master Sommeliers and a Master of Wine.  Panelist Bob Paulinski, MW, said the panel realized the importance of ensuring that the auction wines would resonate with the event’s licensed trade guests. “The wines demonstrated a high degree of clarity and purity of fruit.  There was a strong expression of place.”

Sonoma County Barrel Auction lots range in size from five to 20 cases and include unique single vineyard bottlings, specific clonal selections, blends, wines aged using special barrel regimes and joint lot wines made by collaborating wineries.

The event includes two special days:

Sonoma County Icons Library Tasting 
Thursday, April 30, 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Williams Selyem Winery
Open by invitation only to qualified members of the VIP wine trade and media, this walk-around tasting will give attendees the opportunity to sample up to four older vintage wines with each of the iconic founders and winemakers behind the landmark Sonoma County properties that shaped and advanced winemaking and continue to do so today.

Sonoma County Barrel Auction 
Friday, May 1, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Vintners Inn
Located in the heart of 92 acres of vineyards in Russian River Valley, the day begins in the event center and courtyards with a walk-around tasting of all one-of-a-kind wine lots.  A luncheon and the live auction follows in a tented pavilion overlooking the vineyards.

About Sonoma County Vintners
Sonoma County Vintners (SCV) is the leading voice of Sonoma County wine, dedicated to raising awareness and building understanding of Sonoma County as one of the world’s premier wine regions, noted for its heritage of artisan winemaking, distinct growing regions, and extraordinary quality. Founded in 1944, SCV represents more than 250 wineries and affiliates of all sizes throughout the county.

WWW.SONOMAWINE.COM


DR. BRINKMAN - PROFESSOR AND DIRECTOR OF SUSTAINABILITY STUDIES AT HOFSTRA UNIVERSITY - CALIFORNIA’S WATER RESTRICTIONS

Professor and Director of Sustainability Studies Available to Speak on California’s Water Restrictions

Dr. Robert Brinkman, Professor and Director of Sustainability Studies at Hofstra University, who’s recent Op-Ed regarding California’s water troubles stressed the importance of rethinking water sustainability and conservation on Long Island, N.Y., will be a great resource on any discussion you have relating to California’s recent water restrictions including, but not limited to how:

1. California’s existing water system is highly dependent on a network of pipes and aqueducts that bring water from wet areas to dry populated areas.
2. The water system is controversial because it has allowed areas that are in extremely dry areas (such as Los Angeles or San Diego) to grow in unsustainable ways. The populations far exceed their ability to use local water resources. This makes the cities of Southern California particularly susceptible to environmental stress.
3. California has a tension between different stakeholders about access to water. Agricultural users are often in conflict with cities or industrial users of water.
4. 4. California is in the midst of an historic drought that is causing severe stress on California’s water network.
5. Water conservation is the only answer California has at the moment because they have stretched existing resources to the breaking point already. Lakes and rivers are at historic lows as California is leaving the rainy season and entering the dry season.
6. There is concern over the ability of California farmers to supply fresh fruits and vegetables to the international market.
7. Many areas have learned from the mistakes of California’s highly unsustainable system of water resource management and have worked to better manage water within drainage basins. Florida, for example, mandates that cities must utilize water resources within water districts. As a result, cities cannot grow unsustainably beyond their ability to provide water to cities, farmers, and industries.

Dr. Robert Brinkman earned his B.S. from University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, MS and PHD from University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee. His research focuses on urban and suburban environmental sustainability, including topic areas such as urban storm water pollution, street sweeping, climate change policy, and cave and karst science and management.

Dr. Brinkman is very media savvy. He is available for on-camera and in-studio interviews from Tampa, Florida during the week of April 6th, 2015.  He will be based in New York and available for on-camera and in-studio interviews after April 13th, 2015. He is available for phone and Skype interviews at any time.

04/10 RICK HARRISON, PAWN STARS, MISS KAY ROBERTSON, A&E’s DUCK DYNASTY, DUCK COMMANDER KITCHEN PRESENTS CELEBRATING FAMILY & FRIENDS

RICK HARRISON - STAR OF THE HIT TV SHOW “PAWN STARS®” SHARES HIS STEPS TOWARDS BETTER HEALTH

TAKING STEPS TO REDUCE VERY HIGH TRIGLYCERIDES: WHY TAKING THE EXTRA STEP MATTERS

Regular physical activity, including walking, positively impacts health and has often been suggested in addition to conventional drug therapy. Physical activity is even more important for people with high levels of fat in their blood, such as very high triglycerides (VHTGs).

While blood pressure and cholesterol levels are most often closely monitored for risk of heart disease, very high triglycerides are also an important health risk that Americans need to know about.

Rick Harrison, star of the hit television show, “Pawn Stars®,” is available to share his story of living with very high triglycerides, including his diagnosis and common misconceptions. He’ll also discuss his latest projects.

About Rick:
Rick Harrison has been working to reduce his very high triglycerides since he was diagnosed just over three years ago. In addition to treatment, Rick focuses on a healthy diet and exercise to help him keep his VHTG under control. Rick is a dynamic personality who wants to walk through his journey with your viewers.  


MISS KAY ROBERTSON, STAR OF A&E’s DUCK DYNASTY RELEASES HER NEWEST COOKBOOK DUCK COMMANDER KITCHEN PRESENTS CELEBRATING FAMILY & FRIENDS 

From New York Times bestselling author, star of A&E’s Duck Dynasty, and matriarch of the popular Robertson family, comes a savory new collection of recipes that gives you and your family plenty of reasons to sit down together and share a meal, love, and laughter. Duck Commander Kitchen Presents Celebrating Family & Friends highlights Miss Kay’s favorite recipes to celebrate New Year’s Eve, Mother’s Day, Fourth of July, Christmas dinner, and everything in between.

Miss Kay is a master of the back-country, home-cooked meal. She has been cooking ever since she was a little girl and has perfected her skills through years of practice on the Robertson clan. Following the success of the New York Times bestselling Miss Kay’s Duck Commander Kitchen (2013), she has gone back to her cupboard and pulled out more of her down-home, mouthwatering recipes, this time grouping them around reasons to get together—holidays, family gatherings, etc.

In addition to more than one hundred recipes, Miss Kay opens her heart to share hard-won wisdom and special memories, along with beautiful full-color photos and family pictures. And true to the Robertson faith, you’ll find scriptures sprinkled throughout Miss Kay’s newest collection of recipes.

Take a peek into the off-camera life of America’s favorite duck-loving family, the foods they love, and the wisdom and legacy that make a family strong.

Duck Commander Kitchen Presents Celebrating Family & Friends now available.

04/09 PEGGY TROTT, INN AT LAGUNA BEACH, DARYL EVANS, THE LA KINGS, THE KINGS’ ANNUAL TASTE OF THE SOUTH BAY

PEGGY TROTT – GENERAL MANAGER, INN AT LAGUNA BEACH

A Southern California boutique escape for business and pleasure designed for an intimate and relaxed getaway. This Laguna Beach, CA hotel features 70 thoughtfully appointed accommodations, including spacious village and ocean front guest rooms. Poised atop a bluff near Heisler Park and overlooking the famous Main Beach, Laguna Village and Pacific Ocean, the view is unparalleled and the main attractions are within walking distance. Known as a premier American art colony, Laguna Beach offers a creative culture with an abundance of Zagat and Gayot rated restaurants, unique shopping boutiques, world-renowned art galleries and the annual Pageant of the Masters. For those seeking a business retreat, the Inn offers executive and ocean front meeting facilities for small groups of 2-40. Local catering cuisine and planning services are available.

The Inn is within walking distance of 40 diverse restaurants offering an excellent variety of cuisine, including Mediterranean, Italian, Traditional American, Contemporary American and much more.

WWW.INNATLAGUNABEACH.COM


DARYL EVANS – HOCKEY GREAT & RADIO COLOR COMMENTATOR FOR THE LA KINGS – TALKING ABOUT THE KINGS’ ANNUAL TASTE OF THE SOUTH BAY EVENT THIS WEEKEND

WHO:             Los Angeles Kings
WHAT:          Taste of the South Bay
WHEN:          Saturday 4/11/15
 WHERE:       Manhattan Country Club
The Kings’ annual Taste of the South Bay event – presented by Hush Hush Hair Salon – takes place this Saturday at Manhattan Country Club beginning at 6 p.m.

Tickets are currently available for purchase at LAKings.com/taste and all proceeds from the event benefit the Kings Care Foundation.  This year’s event will also feature a special acoustic set by Bush.

More than 20 local restaurants will be participating in this the seventh edition of our Taste of the South Bay event, which is proudly supported by South Bay Residential.  The featured restaurants are: Abigaile, Brewco, Cake Bakeshop, Coni’seafood, Darren's , Dia de Campo, DOMA Kitchen, El Gringo, Fantastic Cappuccino, Fresh Brothers, Fritto Misto, Little Sister, Manhattan Country Club, Patiné , Paul Martin's American Grill, Pitfire Artisan Pizza, Rock'N Fish, Salt Creek Grille, Steak and Whisky, The Strand House and Tin Roof Bistro.

ABOUT DARYL:
In his 16th season as the Kings Radio Color Commentator, Daryl Evans and veteran Play-By-Play Announcer Nick Nickson are heard on all club radio broadcasts on flagship station TalkRadio 790 and along the Kings Radio Network.

A member of the Kings as a player from 1981-85, Evans scored one of the franchise’s most memorable goals in a game forever remembered as the “Miracle on Manchester.” Facing the heavily-favored Edmonton Oilers in the best-of-five first round of the 1982 playoffs, the Kings pulled off two huge upsets – one, in winning the series three games to two; and two, winning Game 3 of the series.

Down 5-0 in the third period of that game on April 10, 1982, the Kings steadily chipped away at Edmonton’s lead and tied the game with five seconds left in regulation. At 2:35 of the extra period, Evans, then a rookie, sent a shot over Grant Fuhr’s shoulder to seal an improbable end to an incredible game. Evans went on to lead the Kings in playoff scoring with 13 points (5-8=13) in 1982.

The past eight seasons, Evans has spearheaded a charitable giving program in which he has donated $100 for every Kings power play goal scored (for a total of $49,600) in both the regular season and the playoffs. The proceeds the first three years went to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southern California while the proceeds from the past five seasons went to the American Heart Association (he is also on the Board of Directors with that group).

During the 1998-99 season, Evans worked alongside Nickson as a back-up commentator. Prior to his full-time radio role, Evans served as the Director of Premium Seating Sales for STAPLES Center, where he was responsible for sales of luxury suites, premier seats and the premier club. Prior to taking the position at STAPLES Center, Evans managed at Martin Cadillac in West Los Angeles from 1992-99 where he reached Master Manager status seven straight years. Along with his role on the radio, Evans is also an executive with the Toyota Sports Center in El Segundo, formerly serving as the facility’s General Manager, and he sits on the Board for the Kings Alumni Association.

Originally selected by the Kings in the ninth-round (178th overall) of the 1980 NHL Entry Draft, the left wing recorded 52 points (22-30=52) in 113 career NHL games with the Kings, Washington Capitals and Toronto Maple Leafs. Also, in 11 career playoff games, Evans, 53 (1/12/61), registered 13 points (all of those 13 points came with the Kings during the 1982 playoffs).

In addition, Evans coached the UCLA Bruins club hockey team in the Pac-8 League for two seasons (1997-99). They won the Pac-8 Championship in 1998-99 and also went to the National Championships in Utah in 1999, where they were eliminated. Evans was also named the Pac-8 Coach of the Year both years.

Evans, additionally, continues to serve as a Power Skating Consultant for the Kings, having started those duties in 2007; he works as a TV Analyst (pre-game, post-game and intermissions) for Kings games on FOX Sports West; and he annually contributes to Kings Vision (LAKings.com).

A native of Toronto, Daryl resides in Redondo Beach, and he has two children: DJ and Danielle.

Follow the Kings Communications Department on Twitter @LAKingsPR
LAKINGS.COM

04/08 JEAN-CHARLES BOISSET, BUENA VISTA WINERY, HISTORIC WINE TOOL MUSEUM, MARYAM COPE, AMERICAN HOTEL & LODGING ASSOCIATION, EVIDENCE OF MAJOR FRAUD IN HOTEL BOOKING SITES

JEAN-CHARLES BOISSET - BUENA VISTA WINERY OPENS CALIFORNIA’S FIRST HISTORIC WINE TOOL MUSEUM

Buena Vista Winery Opens California’s First Historic Wine Tool Museum

On Wednesday, April 1, 2015, Buena Vista Winery is unveiling a first-of-its-kind museum in California dedicated to the history of winemaking and its tools. The museum features a collection of rare and authentic 19th and 20th century European viticulture tools that are theatrically arranged and displayed against the winery’s historic cellar walls, which date back to 1864.  Visitors will be guided through a twenty-minute show that presents the story of winemaking through the use of these tools from vineyard to bottle, while also learning about the life of the vivacious and eccentric founder, the self-proclaimed “Count of Buena Vista”, Agoston Haraszthy.  Tickets for the museum are $25 per person and include a tasting of four wines plus a guided tour.

Boisset purchased Buena Vista Winery in 2011 and immediately began a significant restoration to preserve and protect the winery’s cellars and caves.  In 2012, a seismic retrofit was completed that allowed the cellars to re-open to the public after closing due to the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989. That same year, the building was also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2013, Buena Vista Winery was awarded the California Preservation Design Award for using innovative center-core drilling technology, which made it possible to restore and preserve the original character of the building from 1864.  It is thanks to this restoration that the building is standing in perfect condition today following the recent Napa earthquake in August, 2014.  While other historic buildings toppled, the Champagne Cellars at Buena Vista Winery suffered no structural damage. The creation and opening of the Historic Wine Tool Museum is another milestone, and for Boisset, a crowning achievement in the revitalization of the property.

The tools on display include: picks, secateurs, grafting knives, presses, a dramatic presentation of pomace cutters, as well as the tools used in barrel making, such as batissoires, adzes, doloires, and more.  From the pioneering zeal of Count Haraszthy through the devastation of phylloxera, the collection guides guests through the the evolution of the wine world through its tools.

The museum is an extension of the Boisset family’s collection in Burgundy, France, which is housed at the Imaginarium at Louis Bouillot in Nuits-St-Georges.

Guests may reserve in advance at www.buenavistawinery.com, via 800.926.1266, or at the Buena Vista Winery Tasting Room.  Museum Tours are available daily by-appointment at 11 AM, 1 PM and 3 PM (walk-up visitors will be accommodated as availability allows; groups of eight or more require advance reservation).  In addition to the $25 tour and tasting, families will also be offered a choice of a museum-only experience for $10 per person, and children with paying adult are free. The winery offers additional guest experiences that include: “Be the Count” wine blending experiences, private tastings, barrel tastings, winery tours, tastings of a wide selection of award-winning, small-production wines, and beautiful picnic areas.

About Buena Vista Winery
Buena Vista Winery is California’s first premium winery and was founded in 1857 by Hungarian immigrant, Agoston Haraszthy, the self-proclaimed “Count of Buena Vista.” Possessing a deep regard for the significance of Buena Vista’s place in California wine history, Jean-Charles Boisset purchased Buena Vista in April, 2011 and added the winery to the Boisset Collection.  Today, Boisset is returning Buena Vista Winery to its original glory with the complete restoration and re-opening of the historic property.  The wines are achieving new heights under Winemaker Brian Maloney and Consulting Winemaker David Ramey. Buena Vista Winery is located at 18000 Old Winery Road, Sonoma, CA.

About Boisset Collection
Boisset is a family-owned collection of historic and unique wineries bound together by a common cause: authentic, terroir-driven wines in harmony with their history, their future and the land and people essential to their existence.  With more than twenty historical and prestigious wineries in the world’s preeminent terroirs, including the Côte d’Or, Beaujolais, Rhône Valley, California’s Russian River Valley, Sonoma Valley, and the Napa Valley.

WWW.BUENAVISTAWINERY.COM
WWW.BOISSETCOLLECTION.COM
WWW.JCBWINES.COM



MARYAM COPE, VP OF GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS AT AMERICAN HOTEL & LODGING ASSOCIATION – EVIDENCE OF MAJOR FRAUD IN HOTEL BOOKING SITES 

With prime travel season right around the corner, it is the perfect time for consumers to be scammed by these seemingly-trustworthy third party booking sites and many times they are even led to believe they are booking from the hotel directly, when in fact, it is just rogue booking sites using the hotels logo, trademark, and copyrighted pictures.  And what’s even more surprising that most consumers are unaware of – is that, while these sites market themselves by saying you can save up to 40 or 60% - the truth is, most hotels have a lowest price guarantee if you book direct!

Thought booking a hotel online was the most convenient and cost effective way to secure a room? With $145 billion spent on online travel each year, so does everyone else.

Buyers beware! It’s a market full of scams, rife with rogue vendors, false advertising and consumer abuses.

Here’s what we are up against:

•  Deals Disguised as “Discounts”: Most people don’t know that when you book a hotel room online, you’re often going through a third party vendor who is tricking you into thinking it’s a sale directly from the hotel. Vendors will often mislead the consumer into believing they are charging the lowest available price, which often times is actually more expensive than the price offered directly through the hotel.  
• Need to Cancel? Too Bad: When you book through a third-party, you can’t cancel your reservation and amenities like handicap access in the room are not honored.
• Irresponsible Privacy and Data Protection Practices: When you book through a third party, where is your credit card and personal information stored? Who is responsible for keeping this information secure? This makes the consumer vulnerable.
• False Reward Programs: A rewards program may be presented as if it’s affiliated with the hotel or hospitality company, but in reality, it is often times nothing more than 
• worthless points to a third party dealer.
• Deceptive Links and Misrepresented Identities: Third party booking services, some of which will intermittently change names in order to dodge legal repercussions, will use  trademarked logos and pictures to give the impression that you’re purchasing through an approved agent, if not directly through the hotel, but you are not. And you’ll end up on the website of a third party dealer—without realizing until it’s too late. 
• Bad Customer Service: Call centers at third party bookers falsely purport to work directly for the hotel companies. An off-brand online booking agency has very little incentive to improve your trip, as the hotel itself does, since they know it’s the hotel that will absorb any criticism and negative reviews.

AHLA.COM