Private London Tours Announce New London Eye Tour Packages for 2017

Explore London’s Most Iconic Sights and Locations in the Lap of Luxury This Year

London, UK, February, 01, 2017 - Private London Tours is proud to announce a range of new tour packages for 2017, including a truly outstanding London Eye experience. Committed to providing the most exclusive, luxurious tours of London for private groups of all sizes, the capital’s market-leader is now offering customers the opportunity to experience one of the capital’s most iconic attractions.

A Bird’s Eye View of the Capital
“For a unique view of London, step into one of the magnificent viewing capsules on the 135-metre (443 feet) tall London Eye. It is the world’s tallest cantilevered Ferris wheel and from the top, you can see up to 40km on a clear day. The London Eye’s 32 capsules are constantly rotating and a journey on board lasts 30 minutes. On board, you can gaze across London, have a quick break on the seats in the middle of the capsules, or use one of the on-board tablets to learn about the monuments around you. The London Eye experience can also be personalised to something even more special with the option of a private capsule for a couple or a group, a champagne experience, as well as other options.” - Private London Tours

While London is famed for its spectacular architecture and scenery, there is absolutely no more breathtaking view of the capital than the view from above. The London Eye was created to provide visitors to the capital with an opportunity to gaze over London in a way never before experienced by members of the public. It is not until you marvel over the city from high above that you get a true sense for its scale, complexity and unparalleled beauty.

Quite simply, absolutely no trip to London would be complete without experiencing the London Eye. And for an even more unforgettable experience, why not book a private capsule, or even a ‘champagne flight’ for your group?

Amazing Memories
“Private London Tours creates amazing memories by allowing you to explore London in a whole new light. Every part of your City of London tour is tailored, but if you are unsure what you want to visit, our team can help you decide. On the day of your tour, you can expect a completely hassle-free adventure. Your London tour guide will pick you up at your chosen location, welcome you, know the quickest and most-interesting routes to get to the locations covered, give you all kinds of information and history about the sights you see, and answer any questions you may have. Your guide will have your tickets ready for you if you are planning on visiting any extra attractions, restaurant reservations can be made if you need those, and much more.” - Private London Tours

Every aspect of your trip can be customised in direct accordance with both your personal preferences and the time you have available. Whatever it takes to provide you and your group with an unforgettable experience and memories for a lifetime, you can count on Private London Tours to deliver.

About Private London Tours:
Private London Tours was established to revolutionise the way discerning travellers approach guided tours of the city. From creating outstanding itineraries to providing full concierge services and offering privileged insight into London’s most famous landmarks, Private London Tours creates bespoke packages in accordance with clients’ requests. For more information or to discuss a booking, get in touch with the PLT customer service team today on (+44) 203-289-7566, or by email at contact@privatelondon.tours.

Contact:
Private London Tours
Private London Tours
London, London city
(+44) 203-289-7566
contact@privatelondon.tours
https://www.privatelondon.tours

Haute Enchilada Cafe and Gallery in Moss Landing, California, First Restaurant in U.S. to use Barn Owls to Control Rodent Population

In what is believed to be a first in the country for a restaurant, the The Haute Enchilada Cafe and Gallery in Moss Landing, California, is using a pair of barn owls as an eco-friendly method of rodent control.

Moss Landing, CA, January 27, 2017 - In what is believed to be a first in the country for a restaurant, the The Haute Enchilada Cafe and Gallery in Moss Landing, California, is using a pair of barn owls as an eco-friendly method of rodent control.

The unique arrangement is part of an overall plan by Haute Enchilada chef/owner Kim Solano to make her restaurant greener and more Earth-friendly. Instead of using highly poisonous rodenticide to try and control the rodent population in and around her business, Solano sought out safer alternatives.

She contacted Moss Landing-based Humane Wildlife Control, which is owned and operated by husband-and-wife wildlife experts, Duane Titus and Rebecca Dmytryk.

The couple erected a barn owl box on top of a 20-foot pole on Solano's property last December. Within days a pair of owls took up residence in the box and by early January, the female laid her first egg. By Jan. 18, there were eight eggs.

The female, named Lotte, will brood the young eggs constantly, taking only a break in the early evening to stretch her wings. The male, named Teco, brings Lotte fresh meals of gopher, rat, mouse and vole, regularly through the night. Sometimes the meals are “cached” in the corners of the box.

The names for the owls come from the Spanish word for owl, “tecolote.”

Barn owls are superior hunters, have voracious appetites and are not woodland birds, preferring open fields and grassy slopes. They prey on small nocturnal animals. A single barn owl can hunt, capture and eat a dozen rodents per night. A barn owl family can consume 3,000 rodents in a single four-month breeding cycle.

Barn owls are called “cavity” dwellers because for nesting and roosting, they prefer quiet cavities, either in trees or man-made structures such as barns, silos and specially made boxes. Once erected, barn owls readily take to these nest boxes without any enticements from humans.

Humane Wildlife Control first made sure that Haute Enchilada was not using poisonous rodenticide or was using only RatX, the only wildlife-safe rodenticide in the United States. Then they sealed up any holes or cracks where rodents could enter the buildings. Then came the owls, which is helping to clear the surrounding property of rodents.

But Dmytryk cautioned that having owls doesn't mean that a business is “getting rid” of rodents completely.

“It's mostly about control. You're not getting rid of all rodents,” she said. “It's a process.”

As far as Dmytryk knows, Haute Enchilada is the only restaurant in the country that is using owls to control its rodent population.

“To my knowledge, Haute is the first and only restaurant in the country to do it,” said Dmytryk. “We're hoping that other people will want boxes too. There aren't enough nesting sites for barn owls. We're spreading barn owls one box at a time.”

At Haute Enchilada, the owls have not only begun to reduce the local rodent population, they've become stars in their own right. An infrared security camera has been installed in Lotte and Teco's box so patrons can either watch the owls on a monitor at the restaurant or watch a live stream from their homes, 24/7.

The restaurant is also using the live feed to broadcast secret messages and to promote food and drink specials.

The pair’s eggs are expected to hatch the first week of February. An event is being planned for Feb. 11 to celebrate the hatching of the eggs, and an Earth Day fundraiser is being planned for March 19 to celebrate Earth-friendly sustainable practices, with an art auction and costume contest. Proceeds will be donated to The Last Plastic Straw — a Bay Area program aimed at reducing single-use plastics.

But the owls are only part of the overall goal of Haute Enchilada to be as green as possible. They do their best to serve only sustainable seafood; all their meat and poultry is natural and free-range; their produce is locally sourced and organic when possible; they have a beehive (maintained by Carmel Honey Co.) to not only maintain the health of their gardens, but for natural honey in the restaurant; they are the first in Monterey and Santa Cruz counties to implement the use of paper straws, which helps reduce plastic in landfills and oceans; and they do not use toxic cleaning products.

About The Haute Enchilada Cafe and Gallery
The Haute Enchilada Cafe and Gallery boasts an eclectic menu of sustainable seafood and local organic produce, wine and beer tasting, plus two art galleries with local artists’ original work displayed. Haute Enchilada is committed to sustainable, earth-friendly practices.

The Haute Enchilada
Business Hours:
Open daily: 11 a.m. – until closing
kim@hauteenchilada.com
(831) 633-5843
7902 Moss Landing Road
Moss landing, CA

Contact:
www.humanecontrol.com
(855) 548-6263
help@humanecontrol.com

About Humane Wildlife Control
Humane Wildlife Control is a family-run business, owned by husband and wife wildlife experts, Duane Titus and Rebecca Dmytryk.

They officially began offering services in 2013 after years of providing assistance with wildlife problems through their non-profit, Wildlife Emergency Services.

Their vast knowledge and experience with wild animals gives them an advantage over other pest control companies since their methods are based on the animals' natural instincts.

Their service areas include the Central Coast and Greater Bay Area, with branches in the Greater Los Angeles area and portions of Ventura County.

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

Pop Singer-Songwriter Jonathan Cavier Releases New Video and Single “Comes A Moment” January 27

“Comes a Moment” is the third single from Cavier’s debut album Premier

Los Angeles, CA, January 27, 2016 – Pop singer-songwriter Jonathan Cavier releases his latest single “Comes a Moment” on January 27. The song is from Cavier’s debut solo album, Premier, and is currently available to purchase on iTunes and stream on Cavier’s Spotify.

The single is accompanied by a cinematic music video that tells the story of a father realizing that he must let go of his daughter as she grows up and is accepted into college. “Comes a Moment” contains many aspects of Cavier’s sonic thumbprint – from soothing and sparkly acoustic guitars to atmospheric keyboards and Cavier’s catchy melodic hooks. All of this is focused around thought-provoking and inspirational lyrics reminding parents, sons and daughters that certain parts of life’s journey come to an end and at those times “there comes a moment to let go.” Backup vocals on “Comes a Moment” are provided by Wes Hightower, who has worked with Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Jason Aldean, and many others.

The video for “Comes a Moment” was directed and produced by Shanice Malakai Johnson. Johnson’s work has appeared at Sundance Film Festival, Cannes Film Festival and numerous other film festivals worldwide. The video was shot in the Phoenix and the Sonoran desert in Arizona. The scenery brings compelling and eye-catching visuals to Cavier’s lyrics which further enhance the story behind his music.

Few young performing artists can lay claim to the sheer variety of compositional and arranging skills that Cavier brings to bear... – Gashouse Radio

On Premier, Jonathan Cavier blends influences from Duran Duran to David Bowie and Goo Goo Dolls into a sound all on his own. The twelve songs on Premier merge these artist’s sounds with other variations of pop and rock influences to result in a refreshing contemporary take on pop music. Extracting elements from a wide range of sounds and unique instruments, Cavier hopes to “transport listeners to colorful three-minute worlds,” through his careful composition and thoughtful lyrics.

About Jonathan Cavier:
Originally from Northern California, Cavier (pronounced “cav-AIR”) has been based in Phoenix, AZ for several years and up until recently was performing as Alan Clark in atmospheric pop duo EyeTalk. Over the course of ten years and five albums, this venture saw Cavier’s music reach audiences as far-flung as Italy, the UK, and Australia. After five albums and hundreds of shows played throughout the US, Jonathan Cavier has reimagined himself and has formed a new musical identity on his debut solo album Premier. Jonathan is also releasing an ongoing series of “Cavier Covers,” which is his own take on songs that have shaped his artistry in meaningful ways. In addition to his musical endeavors, Cavier is a semi-professional tennis player and a member of the USTA and IFT. Cavier says that practicing and playing in tournaments is like “the fountain of youth.”

Follow Jonathan:
Website: http://caviermusic.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JonathanCavierMusic
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jcaviermusic

For more information or to request an interview with Jonathan Cavier please contact: Chip Schutzman, Miles High Productions
www.mileshighproductions.com

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

LA Based Hip-Hop Artist Souleye Announces New Music Video and Single for “Snow Angel” with Special Guest Alanis Morissette, Releasing January 27 2017!

New Single “Snow Angel” is from the Forthcoming Release Wildman, due out Spring 2017.

Los Angeles, CA, January 26, 2017 - Souleye has earned rave reviews and a passionate following for his rousing and unique style that challenges paradigms and incorporates Hip-Hop, EDM, R&B, and Funk. Touted as "a modern day hip hop warrior," Souleye's next highly anticipated full-length album, Wild Man is set for a mid-spring release. Souleye announces the second single off of his new record entitled "Snow Angel,” featuring Alanis Morissette. The artwork was painted by the talented Rob Prior who has worked with Souleye in the past and has created some of his previous album artwork. The new single will be will be available online January 27, 2017 and accompanied by a music video releasing February 1, 2017.

The captivating follow-up single to "Follow Your Heart" is "Snow Angel” which offers another intriguing glimpse of what’s to come on Souleye’s spring release. Produced by Crush Effect, the single showcases Souleye’s inimitable musical approach by offering listeners provocative raps and innovative electronic melodies. On the new track, Souleye explores a relationship that continues to torturously twist and turn as each partner attempts to take a break from the other –only to return. The song unfolds when Morissette belts the breathtaking bridge, “You’re my Snow Angel, you spread open wide as we go back and forth.” Laced with seamless loops and electronic glitches, “Snow Angel” is a liberating collaboration between the couple.

"I have always found my most potent version of service and expression through rap and freestyling," says Souleye. "I let go and the words course through me in a way that I feel ups my own personal ante."

In support of the new single, the accompanying music video takes place in a fantasy ice world with an enchanting wintry backdrop. Morissette is shimmering as she wears all white with a silver rose head piece to complete her breathtaking look of a literal snow angel. With complementary masculine power, Souleye is dressed as dark knight with a black iced crown and at times surrounded by the featured contemporary dancers. The choreographed dancers vividly portray the song’s meaning with their subtle storytelling facial and body expressions and movements. Directed by Kyrian Bobeerian, the visual snowy scenescapes create an ethereal and swirling otherworldliness.

"When I first met Souleye, I was a fan. I was captivated by his stream of consciousness brilliance, bravery, imagery and his ability to articulate in such generous and prolific ways. His music touched me on multiple levels," says Alanis Morissette. "Souleye has a voice like no other and I was a fan who had the great fortune of winning his heart."

Souleye will be running a social media photo challenge to promote the new single. The contest will begin in early February and will require fans to submit an image of their best snow angel.

The Souleye experience is one of body, spirit, intellect and a combination of social and personal commentary. With stratospheric instrumental hooks and uplifting consciousness-raising lyrics, Souleye continues to expand what is available for rap-loving audiences who have a strong distaste for misogyny and patriarchy and yearn for more. The one-of-a-kind artist’s melodic brand of hip-hop and velvet-like vocals pays homage to the genre's past while blazing a new trail into the future.

About Souleye
Souleye’s musical journey began when he was a teenager in rural Massachusetts, freestyling around a camp fire to entertain his friends. Blending traditional elements of hip-hop, EDM and numerous other styles; Souleye’s music crosses the boundaries of genre, defies convention and inspires listeners with uplifting lyrics coupled with both traditional and unusual hip-hop beats and samples. His first album, Soul Sessions was released in 2002. Since then, Souleye has released eight studio albums and numerous singles. Souleye has toured extensively with Bassnectar, shared the stage with the Glitch Mob, Tipper, Michael Franti and his wife, Alanis Morissette, with whom he has two children. For more information, visit souleye.net.

Souleye Discography:
Shapeshifting (2015)
Identified Time (2014)
Iron Horse Running (2013)
Music For People – with BLVD (2008)
Balance in Babylon (2007)
Intergalactic Vibes (2005)
UniverSoul Alchemy (2004)
Flexible Morality (2003)
Soul Sessions (2002)

Other Inquiries:
Kevan Schwartz
kevanschwartz@me.com

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

LA Based Americana Band Angie and the Deserters Release “17 Days” Single January 27, 2017

“17 Days” Impacting Americana Radio January 30

Los Angeles, CA, January 26, 2017 - Angie and the Deserters release their third single “17 Days” off of their recent six song EP, You. Produced by Jeff Huskins (Clint Black, Keith Urban), “17 Days” was recorded in legendary Castle Recording Studios and was mastered by Grammy Winning Bod Ludwig (Rolling Stones, Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix).

In “17 Days,” Angie highlights the times when she was constantly on the road and was touring from city to city. Bruyere describes the typical scenarios of a ‘rolling stone’ as she sings about the liberating feelings of being on the move while leaving new lovers behind, writing music and bonding with her band members. The new single evokes music nostalgia by blending classic upbeat rhythms with notable guitar pedals. Drawing inspiration from artists like Tom Petty, The Rolling Stones and Willie Nelson, the band creates a fiery Americana and alternative sound all of their own. Lead vocalist Angie Bruyere continues to reveal her innocent yet gritty vocal tones that flare with a country rock bite.

With each release the band continues to raise an impressionable impact on its listeners and media. Their most recent single “Forgetting to Forget” debuted at #1 on the Radio Indie Alliance Charts and slotted at #7 on The Alternate Root’s ‘Top 10 Songs of the Week’ while No Depression noted “Angie and The Deserters are a driven and charismatic band with a passion for beautiful melodies and energetic hooks.”

Angie and the Deserters plan to continue their momentum throughout 2017 with upcoming tourdates, showcases and festival performances. Angie and the Deserters compromise of Angie Bruyere (vocals), Kyle Stevens (guitar), Danny Hulsizer (guitar), Chris Lawrence (pedal steel) Chad Schlosser (bass, mandolin), Michael Johnson (percussion) and Jinxx (violin, keyboard).

For more information, please visit: www.AngieandTheDeserters.com

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

Winter Special! Cozy up at The Clement Palo Alto Third Night Free on Weekends Only

The Clement Palo Alto, which opened in March 2016, warms up this Winter with its new “Cozy Up at the Clement Palo Alto” Package. Stay two nights and get a third night free!

Palo Alto, CA, January 22, 2017 — The Clement Palo Alto, which opened in March 2016, warms up this Winter with its new “Cozy Up at the Clement Palo Alto” Package. Stay two nights and get a third night free!

The luxury all-inclusive hotel that boasts 23 spacious and richly appointed one-bedroom suites, starts your weekend off in style this Winter. Guests can upgrade their stay with an extra day to enjoy the wonderful shopping, spas and dining in Palo Alto! Spend the day out and about and cozy up fireside at The Clement Hotel at night in your room's naturally luxurious fireplace seating area.

o Complimentary third night with two consecutive paid nights (limit 1)

o Stay must include a Friday and Saturday”. The 3rd night free would be Thursday or Sunday

o Offer valid for stays prior to 5/31/17

Please call one of our staff member at (650) 322-7111 to book this special package or email reservations@theclementpaloalto.com.

About The Clement Palo Alto
The Clement Palo Alto opened its doors March 2016 and is one of the most innovative, personalized and unique luxury hotels in the country.

With 23 spacious and richly appointed one-bedroom suites, The Clement Palo Alto sets a new standard for personalized luxury accommodations in a contemporary residential-style atmosphere.

While unparalleled service is key to any great luxury hotel, The Clement Palo Alto takes its impeccable service to another level with an all-inclusive concept, including personalized concierge services, breakfast, lunch and dinner in an on-premise location of the guest's choice. All wine, beer and cocktails, in-room mini-refrigerator (stocked with the guest's favorites), and fully-stocked Guest Pantry available around the clock, are just a few of the amenities included in this all-inclusive experience.

In fact, The Clement Palo Alto is more than all-inclusive, it is all-exclusive, catering exclusively to the guest's personal tastes and desires.

The Clement Palo Alto is ideally located across from Stanford University and next to downtown Palo Alto, with its award-winning restaurants, world-class shopping and upscale spas. It is just 45 minutes south of San Francisco and only 30 minutes north of San Jose, not only making it convenient, but easily accessible to the world-famous sights and myriad activities of both cities.

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

Overall, The Clement Palo Alto offers a unique, one-of-a-kind 6-star experience in the heart of Silicon Valley with unparalleled personal service, all-inclusive luxury and privacy in a warm, inviting and luxurious residential environment.

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

Hofsas House Announces its Third Nights a Charm Package

Celebrating its 70th Anniversary of European hospitality at the beautiful Bavarian-inspired Hofsas House Hotel, the Theis family proudly announces its Third Nights a Charm packages to their valued guests.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA, January 21, 2017 - Celebrating its 70th Anniversary of European hospitality at the beautiful Bavarian-inspired Hofsas House Hotel, the Theis family proudly announces its Third Nights a Charm packages to their valued guests. Each room has been crafted with the same minute attention to detail generations of guests have come to expect from Hofsas House Hotel and is as unique and charming as Carmel itself .

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

Subject to availability. Minimum of three (3)-night stay required. Savings reflected in rate at time of booking. If modifications to reservation are made during your hotel stay (e.g. early departure), the promotion is void and your rate will be adjusted to the rate of the day. Taxes and gratuities not included. Offer not applicable to groups, negotiated or third-party rates. Not combinable with any other offers. Not applicable to existing reservations. Blackout dates apply. Offer valid from February and March 2017 excluding holidays and AT&T golf week. Mention Code HHCHARM when booking.

About Hofsas House:
Owned and operated by the Theis Family, Hofsas House Hotel is within walking distance of everything Carmel has to offer, including a stunning beach, fine restaurants and shops and wine tasting. It provides peaceful respite and European charm just minutes from Monterey, Pebble Beach, Big Sur and Pacific Grove. The Hofsas House’s 38 spacious, one-of-a-kind rooms boast European comfort and lovely views and amenities such as fireplaces, private balconies, wet bars, kitchens and patios. Large suites provide the perfect stay for newlyweds and anyone else seeking an extra special getaway. Dutch doors in every room allow guests to welcome in the ocean air, and free WiFi enables them to stay connected — if they want to.

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

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

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

2 Night Media Stays Available Upon Request/Airfare Not Included
Blackout Dates For Media Visits: All of December; January 16th and 17th; February 12th, 13th, 14th and 15th
If you would like to visit the Hofsas House, please email marci@chatterboxpublicrelations.com the following information:

* First and Last Name
* Publication You Will be Writing For
* 2 Options of Travel Dates
* Any Special Details: Traveling with Children; Traveling with Dogs; Mobility Concerns; Food Allergies

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

National Study's Findings Supports Minimus Institute's Use of Bundled Payments to Reduce Costs of Joint Replacement Surgery by 20 Percent

Monterey-based Minimus Institute, a national state-of-the-art surgical institute that is a leader in commercially insured bundles, got a boost recently from a national study on such payments.

Monterey, CA, January 20, 2017 — Monterey-based Minimus Institute, a national state-of-the-art surgical institute that is a leader in commercially insured bundles, got a boost recently from a national study on such payments.

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found bundled payments for joint replacement surgery can reduce costs by up to 20 percent without sacrificing patient outcomes.

Minimus, which has championed the use of bundled payments for individual patients, generates even more savings for patients by using commercially insured bundles for larger companies and their employees and federally insured patients.

According to ASC Communications, in the study researchers used Medicare claims to analyze 3,924 lower extremity joint replacement procedures at San Antonio-based Baptist Health System between July 2008 and June 2015. The patients participated in Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services' (CMS) voluntary Acute Care Episodes and Bundled Payments for Care Improvement demonstration projects.

The five findings of the study:
1. Baptist Health System achieved on average $5,577 in cost savings per joint replacement procedure.
2. During the seven-year period, Baptist Health System reduced average Medicare costs by 20.8 percent for 3,738 joint replacements without complications.
3. For 204 episodes with complications, Medicare episode expenditure fell 13.8 percent on average.
4. Episodes with prolonged length of stay fell 67 percent.
5. Study researchers estimated if every hospital utilized this bundled payment model, Medicare could save $2 billion annually.

In a bundled payment situation, providers and/or healthcare facilities are paid a single payment for all the services performed to treat a patient undergoing a specific episode of care.

Under this model, a payer would collectively reimburse the providers involved, using a set price for the episode of care, which is usually based on historical costs. Providers who exceed the pre-arranged reimbursement for the surgery bear the financial responsibility for overages, which is intended to encourage standardized, cost-effective care decisions.

The federal government has initiated broad adoption of the bundled payment methodology in the inpatient setting. This has not, however, been widely adopted in the ambulatory environment with commercially insured or federally insured patients.

From 2010 to 2015, over 2,000 commercially insured bundled surgical cases were performed in California ASCs with overnight stay capability administered by Global One Ventures ("Global 1") a Third Party Administrator (TPA). The surgery case types included total and partial joint replacement and repair, major spine surgery, hysterectomy, thyroidectomy, mastectomy and breast reconstruction. The payers included Blue Shield of California, UHC, and large self-insured employers and union groups.

The bundle included all facility and professional fees during the episode of care. The bundled surgical cases were managed by a TPA with a network of 38 ASCs and over 300 physicians. The bundled payment agreements were approved by the California Department of Managed Care (DMHC) and underwent a regulatory review by the California Department of Insurance (DOI).

Results from the implementation included: high patient satisfaction rates (98% would recommend a bundled payment methodology to friends); low complication rates (ER rate, infection rate and readmission rate of 0.67% in 2015); and significant financial savings (an average of $7,648 per case). The total cost is 30%-60% less per bundled case than if the procedure had been performed in the hospital setting

Minimus Institute is an extension of Monterey Peninsula Surgery Centers (MPSC), one of the largest locally owned and operated outpatient surgery organizations in the United States. Minimus extends MPSC's outreach to formally become a national surgery referral center offering patient-focused surgical care in a concierge setting, featuring world-class surgeons and an innovative transparent pricing and outcome reporting system.

Background on MPSC:
MPSC and its surgeons are recognized leaders in outpatient surgical care as measured by the high demand for its services, extremely low infection rates, 99% patient satisfaction scores and affordable, transparent pricing. It is known for performing complex surgery, including total joint replacements, major spine surgeries, hysterectomies, breast reconstruction and thyroidectomies in the outpatient setting. In excess of 31,500 surgical procedures in 13 specialties are performed annually at MPSC by its 190 physicians on staff. Our world class surgeons, anesthesiologists, technology and techniques have resulted in exceptionally low complication rates and soaring patient-satisfaction scores. (Recommend deleting the last sentence as repetitive).

Minimus Institute:
Minimus Institute is a national state-of-the-art surgical institute located in a beautiful setting on California's Central Coast, providing patients access to world-class surgeons and exceptional value. Offering transparent pricing and clear, comprehensive outcome information and patient-satisfaction scores, Minimus demystifies the surgical-care experience allowing patients to make the most informed decisions about their care.

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

Carmel Valley Expressionist Artist Patricia Qualls’ Artwork in High Demand Nationally, Internationally

From humble beginnings on a farm, to a Ph.d., and an internationally collected artist, there is an underlying theme that has resonated throughout artist Patricia Qualls' life: the privilege of life long learning, hard work and perseverance.

Carmel Valley, CA, January 18, 2016 — From humble beginnings on a farm, to a Ph.d., and an internationally collected artist, there is an underlying theme that has resonated throughout artist Patricia Qualls' life: the privilege of life long learning, hard work and perseverance.

Qualls is a nationally and internationally known expressionist artist with art in collections in Switzerland as well as in New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Boston, Phoenix, Dallas, Vail, Sun Valley and Palm Desert, among others. Her work is also part of the George Blair permanent collection at the Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento.

Qualls' paintings are large scale and bold. Some of her series' emphasize powerful strokes of color and texture, while others are more subtle with washes of cream and shades of white. While her style is unique, some of her series could be likened to styles found in the great expressionist artists of the early-to-mid 20th century such as Sam Francis, Helen Frankenthaler, Hassel Smith, Joan Mitchell and Jackson Pollock.

She opened Patricia Qualls Contemporary Art, a 1,400-square-foot studio/gallery in 2008 in Carmel Valley Village in Monterey County. The studio/gallery's large, open-beamed ceiling with 15-foot walls allowed her to produce the large scale paintings.

“I love the physicality of painting large...There is something about being able to use my whole body, there is so much synergy...to have room to move...it's like dance...to be fully engaged with my whole being. I don't have to sit in a chair, and at the end of the day I feel like I've had a good days work. I am so blessed to be able to do this!”

Its no question where Qualls' work ethic comes from. “I grew up on a farm in Middle Tennessee and there's not much play time on a farm. We used to work seven days a week, which is what I do now as an artist at age 62. It's amazing that I have a profession that brings me such fulfillment,” says Qualls.

After life on the Tennessee farm, Qualls left for a job in Nashville. In 1980 she went on a blind date with a man who happened to be from Carmel. “That changed my life,” she says.

Qualls moved to Carmel, and began the process of personal growth and deep lifelong learning. The precious time with great therapists, kind professors and brilliant mentors opened the door to a life that seemed impossible to ever imagine.

She has an executive MBA from Pepperdine University and a Ph.D from the California Institute of Integral Studies.

Part of her passion as a therapist entailed holding “Life Presence” 4 day retreats. One of the retreats included a group of artists and it had a profound effect on her.

“I realized I needed to do something creative and playful,” she says.

So she took a class on “intuitive painting,” and that was all it took. She fell in love. To hear her tell it, “art found me.”

“I would go to the garage and paint every morning for 15 minutes,” she says. “Then I got obsessed. I got so excited I would get up at 4 in the morning and paint. I was just trying to find my own voice.” Waking before the sunrise was not new to Qualls, but, unlike waking to the crow of a rooster on her family farm as a child, she would now wake with a hunger to explore her new found passion.

Qualls delayed taking art classes or reading art books, just trusting her intuition and inner voice to guide her painting and style. This helped shape her artistic philosophy of experimentation: a willingness to play, free from self judgement or self scrutiny.

When she first started painting it was to get out her head and other people’s heads and to discover an outlet for her voice: a way to express herself that did not involve words.

And what cinched it was an art book on California Expressionists a friend had recommended she read.

Up until this point Qualls' desire for pure self expression—void of outside influence—had kept her from reading about abstraction. “But when I read that book I cried like a baby, I had found my people.”

Before long, her therapy practice gave way to painting full time, resulting in her opening her studio/gallery in Carmel Valley Village in 2008. She can usually be found working in her studio, experimenting with color, texture, brush strokes and various tools and techniques.

And, just as she wanted to help people as a therapist to access their emotional life, as an artist she wants people to access their creative life. She feels everyone is creative and that all they need is the space for them to express their need to express.

“I love the solitude of being in the studio by myself and love the emotions of the things that go on in people’s lives, quilting together pieces of other peoples’ stories and putting them together on a canvas,” she says. “Each painting tells a story. Life is not without work, there is dark and there is light and hope. My paintings are layers that move toward the light.”

When asked where her inspiration comes from, she said it comes from within and of course is influenced by the world we live... my job is to trust and stay engaged with the process.

Contact:
Patricia Qualls
www.patriciaqualls.com
831.245.8076

“Inspiration lives inside of me, it's just a matter of letting it come out without judgment,” she says. “It comes knocking all the time. I can't do it fast enough, there's not enough time in the day. “I am so grateful that I get to run experiments all day long,” she says. “Where else can you do that? It is magic to watch the power of color and brushstrokes. Every day in my studio is a blessing to me.”

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

Honey for your Honey this Valentine’s Day! Love is Sweet. Pure, Raw Honey From Carmel Honey Company, Started by 11-Year-Old Carmel Student, is the Perfect Gift for your Honey on Valentine’s Day

Sweet as can Bee! Honey from Carmel Honey Company, founded by 14-year-old Carmel student Jake Reisdorf who was 11 at the time, is the perfect heart healthy treat for your honey this Valentine’s Day!

Carmel, CA, January 10, 2017 — Sweet as can Bee! Honey from Carmel Honey Company, founded by 14-year-old Carmel student Jake Reisdorf who was 11 at the time, is the perfect heart healthy treat for your honey this Valentine’s Day! This golden liquid, created and stored by some of the smallest and most industrious members of the natural kingdom, has come to stand for all that is sweet and desirable in the world.

Honey in History
Apiculture, or bee-keeping, dates back to 700 BC, but man’s desire for the bee’s precious nectar goes back much further than that — a 10,000-year-old rock painting in Spain depicts two human figures on a ladder collecting honey from a wild hive. In 2100 BC, honey was mentioned in the sacred writings of Egypt and India; in the Old Testament, the Promised Land is described as “the land of milk and honey”. And mythological rumor has it that In Greek mythology, it is said that Cupid dipped the tips of his “love arrows” in honey to fill the lovers hearts with sweetness.

Honey and Health
The amazing benefits found in honey include antioxidant and anti-microbial properties that are unique to this all-natural sweetener. Honey has also been used for centuries as a natural, fragrant and wholly pleasing beauty treatment, due to its humectant qualities and silky feel. It is said that Cleopatra herself owed much of her legendary beauty to a daily infusion of golden honey.

In honor of Valentine’s Day, be sure to treat your special someone to the gold standard of what has become sweet and desirable in the world this Valentine’s Day -- honey! Carmel Honey Company has four types of honey currently available — Sage Honey, Wildflower Honey, Orange Blossom Honey and Meadowfoam Honey. Carmel Honey Company provides all-natural, pure, raw, premium honey that is harvested straight from the hive.

And Reisdorf, as part of his “Jake Gives Back” program, donates a portion of his honey sales proceeds to organizations that are expanding research and education efforts by addressing the production, nutritional value, health benefits, economics, and/or quality standards of honey bees and honey.

“I'm just an average 14-year-old who likes honey bees,” Reisdorf told California Bountiful magazine. “With beekeeping, you are helping the environment and it is really fun and interesting. I'm all about the education and practicing beekeeping and doing honey. The message that I want everyone to know is: If the bees go, we go, so help save the bees.”

In addition to individual jars of honey, Carmel Honey Company offers three special packages perfect for your honey this Valentine’s Day: Carmel Honey Company Honey Sampler, Honeycomb and Honey Stix.

The Sampler is the ideal way to sample all four pure, raw, premium honey varietals. This set includes 3-oz. jars of Sage Honey, Wildflower Honey, Orange Blossom Honey and Meadowfoam Honey.

They are packaged ready for gift giving in an elegant clear gift bag and red bow. There is a special gift box available only on the website for Valentine’s Day.

Honeycomb is the absolute purest form of honey. Circular frames are placed inside the beehive and the honey bees instinctively know to build it out first with wax, then fill it with honey. Since the honey bees make the wax and honey, the 8-oz rounds are 100% edible. Harvested individually at different times, from a variety of hives, no two rounds will taste exactly the same. These honeycombs are delicious on a cheese board or cut and placed over soft-serve ice cream. Also an excellent gift for the foodie in your life.

Honey Stix offer a great boost of energy in a convenient package. In a lunchbox or purse this 12-pack is an easy way to curb sweet cravings the natural way. Filled with the Wildflower Honey varietal, each Stix contains 1 teaspoon of honey. Excellent portion control for tea and coffee and also an ideal stocking stuffer or unique gift for all ages.

And remember, when you purchase a jar of honey from the Carmel Honey Company, (or place a honey bee pollination hive in your backyard), you have contributed to the research and education of the public on the importance of pollination and the benefits of the honey bee.

Carmel Honey Company honey can be purchased directly from the website (which grew out of his elementary class project) at www.carmelhoneycompany.com.

Valentine’s Day Recipe:
Baklava
· 1 package store bought Phyllo Dough (from frozen section)
· 4 cups Chopped Nuts (walnuts/almonds preferred, but whatever you have on hand)
· 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
· 1 plus 1/2 stick Butter, melted (FYI - you’ll probably need more)
· 2 cups Carmel Honey Company Wildflower Honey
· 1/2 cup Water
· 1/2 cup Sugar
· 3 teaspoons Vanilla Extract

Directions:
Remove frozen phyllo dough package from freezer and refrigerate for 24 hours to thaw.
Set at room temperature at least 1 hour before using.

Melt ½ stick butter. Set aside.

Remove the phyllo sheets as needed keeping other sheets covered under a damp cloth.

Toss together nuts and cinnamon. Set aside.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a rectangular baking pan. Trim phyllo stack to fit pan.

Place sheet of phyllo in pan and brush with melted butter. Repeat 4 times for a total of five sheets.

Sprinkle nuts to make a single thin layer.

Butter three sheets of phyllo and place on top of nuts. Add layer of nuts and buttered sheets.

Repeat, until you're out of nuts (keep in mind next (final) step)

Top with at least 4 buttered phyllo sheets, to ending with a buttered top.

Cut a diagonal diamond pattern (or in simple squares) using a very sharp knife.

Bake for 45 minutes, or until golden brown.

While Baklava is baking, combine butter, honey, water, sugar, and vanilla in saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

After removing Baklava from oven, IMMEDIATELY drizzle half the saucepan evenly over top, allowing pan to sit/absorb for a few minutes. Then drizzle remaining sauce until thoroughly moistened.

Allow Baklava to cool, uncovered, for several hours to set.

Eat, Share, Gift, Enjoy!

About Jake and Carmel Honey Company:
Jake Reisdorf is the chief beekeeper and owner of Carmel Honey Company, which he started as part of a school project where his teacher assigned professions to each student and directed them to research the profession and build a presentation on it.

While researching his assigned profession of website designer, Jake, 11 years old at the time, decided to take it one step further and actually create a real website. At that time, Jake had taken one beekeeping class with his Dad and thought it would be cool to design a website about honey bees.

Not only did Jake get an “A” on the project, but it inspired him and spurred him to start Carmel Honey Company. That was three years ago.

His passion for honey bees grew as he learned about Colony Collapse Disorder and real honey. Expanding his research and education drove Jake to learn more about honey and bees and ultimately decide it was critical to give back.

In addition, Jake places hives on residential and commercial properties to raise awareness and encourage others to support the honey bee.

The “Jake Gives Back” program includes sharing honey bee knowledge with kids and adults of all ages. Whether he is in a classroom speaking to first-grade students, or at a corporate event talking with business owners and seasoned professionals, his passion and appreciation of how honey bees impact our world is infectious. He also “gives back” by making a financial donation to honey bee research and education organizations.

Jake currently attends 8th grade at Carmel Middle School and keeps his knowledge of Apiology (the scientific study of bees) current by continuing to manage his own honey bee hives and attending industry conferences throughout the country.

Carmel Honey Company
(831) 687-8511
www.CarmelHoneyCompany.com
www.Facebook.com/CarmelHoneyCompany
www.Instagram.com/CarmelHoneyCompany
www.Twitter.com/CarmelHoneyCo

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

The Clement Palo Alto Celebrates Love and Romance with Special Valentine's Weekend Package, Feb. 10-12

The Clement Palo Alto, which opened in March 2016, celebrates love and romance for its first Valentine's Weekend with a special package featuring a variety of amenities.

Palo Alto, CA, January 09, 2017 — The Clement Palo Alto, which opened in March 2016, celebrates love and romance for its first Valentine's Weekend with a special package featuring a variety of amenities.

The luxury all-inclusive hotel that boasts 23 spacious and richly appointed one-bedroom suites, starts your weekend off in style with Welcome Amenities that include early check-in, champagne with cotton candy and flowers.

That evening, guests will be treated to a specially created three-course candle-lit dinner paired with fine wines. After dinner, you can toast each other under a gorgeous full moon at the hotel's cozy rooftop pool deck with fire pits. Keep in mind that the full moon rises on the evening of Saturday, Feb. 11.

The morning after your romantic night, savor a full breakfast with mimosas or Bellinis delivered to your room. Then luxuriate some more because you have a late check-out that day!

To make your romantic weekend complete, you can also book a relaxing and rejuvenating spa treatment with our partners at nearby LaBelle Day Spa & Salon for an additional cost.

Rates for this special Valentine's Weekend start at $429 per night available Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 10-12.

Please call one of our staff member at (650) 322-7111 to book this special package.

About The Clement Palo Alto
The Clement Palo Alto opened its doors March 2016 and is one of the most innovative, personalized and unique luxury hotels in the country.

With 23 spacious and richly appointed one-bedroom suites, The Clement Palo Alto sets a new standard for personalized luxury accommodations in a contemporary residential-style atmosphere.

While unparalleled service is key to any great luxury hotel, The Clement Palo Alto takes its impeccable service to another level with an all-inclusive concept, including personalized concierge services, breakfast, lunch and dinner in an on-premise location of the guest's choice. All wine, beer and cocktails, in-room mini-refrigerator (stocked with the guest's favorites), and fully-stocked Guest Pantry available around the clock, are just a few of the amenities included in this all-inclusive experience.

In fact, The Clement Palo Alto is more than all-inclusive, it is all-exclusive, catering exclusively to the guest's personal tastes and desires.

The Clement Palo Alto is ideally located across from Stanford University and next to downtown Palo Alto, with its award-winning restaurants, world-class shopping and upscale spas. It is just 45 minutes south of San Francisco and only 30 minutes north of San Jose, not only making it convenient, but easily accessible to the world-famous sights and myriad activities of both cities.

Overall, The Clement Palo Alto offers a unique, one-of-a-kind 6-star experience in the heart of Silicon Valley with unparalleled personal service, all-inclusive luxury and privacy in a warm, inviting and luxurious residential environment.

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

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