“Whale Tale” shot sparks renewed interest in whale watching

Contact:  Christina Glynn, Communications Director/Film Commissioner
Phone: 831.425.1234 ext.112, email: cglynn@santacruz.org

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA – So many visitors choose Santa Cruz County as a wintertime destination, and butterflies, whales, birds and elephant seals are no different.  This season, the nutrient-rich waters of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is attracting blue whales and humpback whales, which migrate to the Sanctuary to feed on their primary prey of anchovies and krill.   A photo released by the Santa Cruz County Conference & Visitors Council (CVC) last week has added to the excitement about the possibility of viewing whales up close.  However, the CVC encourages visitors to use common sense and view wildlife in a responsible way.

The “Whale Tale” photo captures an authentic and spontaneous act of nature – one instance in many – on the Monterey Bay.  While aboard a small boat operated by Pacific Yachting and Sailing out of the Santa Cruz Harbor, local photographer Paul Schraub, on an unrelated assignment for the CVC, captured an amazing display of lunge feeding whales in the Monterey Bay.

“Visitors are drawn to the activity of wildlife watching because the actions of Mother Nature – as we have seen in the media with other events – are fundamentally unpredictable.” said Christina Glynn, Communications Director for the CVC.  “We encourage visitors and locals alike to enjoy the Monterey Bay responsibly, abiding by the laws and rules of the Sanctuary.  This includes maintaining a safe distance of at least 100 yards from all marine animals, whether in the water or on shore.”

Visitors can choose from an array of ways to view marine life in Santa Cruz County, utilizing the expertise of local whale watching tour companies.  Additionally, an abundance of sea life can be viewed from shore, from such vantage points as the Santa Cruz Wharf, Santa Cruz Harbor, Capitola Wharf and the cliffs at Davenport, among other locations.

The CVC features whale watching information on its website at http://www.santacruz.org/things/whale-watching.php, including safety guidelines for visitors.

The wintertime months are some of the best times of the year for wildlife viewing.  A mild climate combined with changes in weather, food availability and other variables brings with it the seasonal migrations of wildlife to California’s most popular beachside town.  Monarch butterflies flock to Natural Bridges State Park in Santa Cruz to feed on milkweed, whales make the journey along the California coastline to warmer waters, and a variety of migrating and permanent bird species are plentiful.

“The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary is a tremendous source of pride for locals and visitors alike, and we encourage responsible stewardship of this national treasure.” said Glynn.  “However, if wildlife is looking back at you, you may be too close!”

Visitors and locals can take part in special opportunities to see various birds and mammals gathering, leaving, passing through, and arriving in Santa Cruz County.  The free Santa Cruz County Conference & Visitors Council’s Birding and Wildlife Watching Guide is a wonderful resource for spotting all these amazing animals.  Call 831.425.1234 for a copy, or visit http://www.santacruz.org/misc/request-birding-and-wildlife-watching-kit.php

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A private, non-profit corporation, the Santa Cruz County Conference and Visitors Council (CVC) exists to enhance tourism and the economy by positioning Santa Cruz County as a visitor, conference and film destination. For more information, contact the CVC at 831-425-1234 or 800-833-3494.  Or visit CVC’s web site at www.santacruz.org

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Contact:  Christina Glynn, Communications Director/Film Commissioner
Phone: 831.425.1234 ext.112, email: cglynn@santacruz.org

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA— Haunting tales, mysterious places and Halloween-themed events and attractions abound in Santa Cruz County.  So if you’re looking to get spooked or just have some family fun this Halloween, pack your ghost busting gear and trick-or-treat bag and head for Santa Cruz County.  Below are some of the signature events celebrating the ghouly goodness of Halloween:

Task Masker!

The yearly Santa Cruz Mask Making Day is a fun-filled day for the whole family to enjoy masks, theater, dance and stories from around the world at Laurel Park and Louden Nelson Center on Saturday, October 29, 2011, from Noon to 5:00 p.m.

Zombie Brain or Vintage Train?

All aboard….the Ghost Train!  The Legend of Sleepy Hollow comes alive October 28^th and 29^th at Roaring Camp Railroads in Felton as the tale of Ichabod Crane and the Headless Horseman is narrated during a spooky nighttime ride through the redwood forest.  Trains operate at 6:00, 6:30, 8:00, and 8:30 p.m.

Cutie Patootie or Psychotic Aquatic?

Tales of local shipwrecks, whale ghost stories, nighttime tours, costumes and scavenger hunts make up an evening of family fun at the Seymour Center at Long Marine Lab’s Marine Masquerade and Scary Aquary.  From 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. on Friday, October 28^th, hear the tale of 1924 wreck of the La Feliz and the fate of her crew. Take a nighttime tour to discover what the ghost of the whale says. Watch the creatures that come out at night to feed in the aquarium tanks.

Ghouls Just Want to Have Fun!

On October 30^th, head to Capitola Village for trick-or-treating and a costume parade at 2:00 p.m.  Halloween on the Wharf is another option for a Trick-or-Treat outing at the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf on Sunday, October 31, 2011.  From 4:00 – 6:00 p.m., little witches, goblins, and ghosts and their parents can gather treats for kids provided at wharf businesses.  And in Downtown Santa Cruz from 2:30 – 5:00 p.m., merchant trick-or-treating and Halloween activities are all part of the fun on Halloween day.

In addition to these creepily-fun events, families can visit the Haunted Castle ride which graces the landscape of the legendary Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.  This 10,000 square-foot attraction features a unique design twist: riders will board the ride at Boardwalk level then spiral down backwards into the haunted basement. Riders then glide through dimly lit rooms filled with spooky special effects. The location of the new Haunted Castle has been home to a number of “dark” rides over the years, starting with “Dante’s Inferno” in 1935. The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk will be open Saturday and Sunday, October 29 and 30 from Noon to 5:00 p.m.  For more spooky fun – and a bit of history – visit Evergreen Cemetery, located on a forested hillside and the final resting place of many of Santa Cruz’s earliest ‘pioneers’.  Established in 1850, the cemetery is operated by the Museum of Art and History, which can arrange for group tours of ten people or more.

For more information on these and other Halloween events and activities, visit www.santacruz.travel/events.

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A private, non-profit corporation, CVC exists to enhance tourism and the economy by positioning Santa Cruz County as a visitor, conference and film destination. For more information about local tourism, contact the Santa Cruz County Conference & Visitors Council at 831-425-1234 or 800-833-3494.  Or visit the CVC’s web site at www.santacruzcounty.travel

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Visitors welcome to partake in fall events with locals “in-the-know”

Contact:  Christina Glynn, Communications Director/Film Commissioner
Phone: 831.425.1234 ext.112, email: cglynn@santacruz.org

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA – Fall in Santa Cruz County is the best-kept secret among locals. Although barbecue grills and bathing suits will be put into storage following Labor Day Weekend until next season, summer continues for visitors in-the-know.  Citing fewer crowds and some of the year’s best weather, the autumn months are hailed as Santa Cruz County’s “Secret Summer”.  And this fall, the Santa Cruz County Conference & Visitors Council (CVC) encourages visitors to take a peek at the fall festivals that are lined up this season:

29th Annual Capitola Art & Wine Festival

September 10-11, 2011
Fine art, wine tasting, gourmet food, eclectic music and children’s art area in Capitola Village by the Beach. 10am – 6pm.
Location: Capitola Village, Capitola Phone: 831.475.6522 www.capitolachamber.com

115th Annual Santa Cruz County Fair

September 13-18, 2011
Six days of fun and festivities, including a large carnival. Safe, fun and affordable. Noon – 11pm daily.
Location: Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds (2601 East Lake Ave., off Hwy. 152), Watsonville Phone: 831.724.5671 www.santacruzcountyfair.com

Watsonville’s Monterey Bay Birding Festival

September 22 – 25, 2011
Come see 200 species of birds in one of the world’s most picturesque areas of California on the Monterey Bay. Thurs. – Sat. 6:30am – 9pm, Sun. 6:30am – 3pm.
Location: Watsonville Civic Plaza, 275 Main Street, Watsonville Phone: 831.724.3900 www.montereybaybirding.org

14th Annual Thunderbirds on the Santa Cruz Wharf

September 24, 2011
A collection of classic (1955-57) & vintage (1958-66) Thunderbirds displayed by owners from central & northern California. 9am.
Location: Santa Cruz Wharf, Santa Cruz  www.montereytbirds.com

Downtown Santa Cruz First Friday Art Tour

On the first Friday of each month, Santa Cruz galleries, museums and other venues open their doors to the public, showcasing spectacular artwork and visitors can take a self-guided tour.  Approximately 50 participating venues are open and offer openings, talks, music, other special activities or later hours. Individuals start their art tour by visiting any participating venue and can view more information at www.firstfridaysantacruz.com. October 7, November 4, December 2, 2011; 5pm – 9pm
Location:  Various galleries throughout the Santa Cruz area
www.firstfridaysantacruz.com

Free First Friday at the Museum of Art & History

The Museum of Art & History at the McPherson Center in Downtown Santa Cruz is admission-free on Fridays!  October 7, November 4, December 2, 2011
Extended Friday hours: 11am – 9pm
Location: 705 Front Street, Santa Cruz;  Phone:  831.429.1964
www.santacruzmah.org

Santa Cruz County Open Studios Art Tour

October1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 2011
Meet local artists in their studios, see processes, purchase art! Artist Guide/Calendar has artist info & detailed map. 11am – 6pm.
Location: Various locations, Santa Cruz County Phone: 831.475.9600 www.ccscc.org

Monte Fireworks Extravaganza!

October 7, 2011
A wonderful family event featuring over 50 game and food booths, live entertainment and a fireworks display.
Location: Seacliff State Beach, Aptos Phone: 831.685.3317 www.monte-foundation.com

2nd Annual Chili Cookoff at the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk!

October 22, 2011
Bring your appetite & join the fun as both professional & amateur chefs compete!  Time: 10-4pm, Tasting starts at 1p
Location:  Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, 400 Beach Street, Santa Cruz; Phone: 831.423.5590
www.beachboardwalk.com

O’Neill Cold Water Classic

October 26 – 30, 2011
Since 1987 this four-star men’s and women’s surfing event has thrilled spectators amid the rugged waters of Santa Cruz.  8am to 5pm.
Location: Lighthouse Point, Santa Cruz
Phone:  831.475.4151 www.oneill.com/cwc

Roaring Camp Railroads Ghost Train

October 28 – 29, 2011
Ride a steam train to Bear Mountain through a haunted redwood forest as you relive “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow”.  Trains at 6pm, 6:30pm, 8pm, 8:30pm.
Location: Roaring Camp Railroads, Felton
Phone: 888.35.EVENT www.roaringcamp.com

Santa Cruz Mountains Wine Passport Program

November 19, 2011
Your chance to visit wineries of the Santa Cruz Mountains not normally open to the public.  Taste wine & have a great time. 11am – 5pm.
Location: Various wineries, Santa Cruz Mountains Phone: 831.685.VINE (8463) www.scmwa.com

Shakespeare Santa Cruz – Holiday Performance

November 18 – December 11, 2011
Celebrate the holidays with a performance of Shakespeare Santa Cruz!  Based on the beloved “Frog and Toad” books by Arnold Lobel, A Year With Frog and Toad follows the story of two great friends as they journey through four, antic-filled seasons, complete with a jazzy score and live band.Location:  U.C. Santa Cruz Mainstage Theater  Phone:  831.459.2159
www.shakespearesantacruz.org

Capitola’s Surfing Santa

November 26, 2011
Santa & his reindeer ride into Capitola Beach. Bring your Christmas list to review with Santa. Candy Canes for everyone! Noon.
Location: Capitola Beach, Capitola Village Phone: 831.475.6522 www.capitolachamber.com

For more information events taking place during Santa Cruz County’s “Secret Summer”, visit www.santacruzevents.travel or call 800.833.3494.

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A private, non-profit corporation, the Santa Cruz County Conference and Visitors Council (CVC) exists to enhance tourism and the economy by positioning Santa Cruz County as a visitor, conference and film destination. For more information, contact the CVC at 831-425-1234 or 800-833-3494.  Or visit CVC’s web site at www.santacruz.org.

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Contact:  Christina Glynn, Communications Director/Film Commissioner
Phone: 831.425.1234 ext.112, email: cglynn@santacruz.org

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA – The wine scene in Santa Cruz County is as diverse as the region’s sights and as inspired as its culture.  And so, it’s no surprise that local wineries – along with the Santa Cruz County Conference & Visitors Council – are raising a glass to California Wine Month.  Three new wine packages are celebrating crush in a variety of ways:

Farm to Table Wine Dinner Package at Chaminade Resort & Spa

Chaminade Resort & Spa in Santa Cruz is offering a Weekend Farm to Table package in honor of California Wine Month. The package, starting at $379++ for two, is available Friday, September 9 and Friday, September 30, 2011 and includes Luxury accommodations, Farm to Table Wine Dinner featuring local Santa Cruz Mountains wine and breakfast for two. Subject to availability. To book the package or learn more, call 800.283.6569 or visit  www.chaminadepackages.com

Sip & Stay with the Inn at Pasatiempo and Surf City Vintners

Enjoy a one-night stay at the Inn at Pasatiempo, an elegant, boutique-style hotel situated near the Santa Cruz Mountains, a pass valid at 12 tasting rooms at Surf City Vintners and 10% off purchases at select wineries. Package starts at $89++ in September and October; starting at $75++ in November and December.  Valid September 5, 2011 through December 30, 2011.  Blackout dates: September 10, 16, 17, 23, 24, 2011.  Advanced reservations are required.  Subject to availability.  Call 800.230.2892 for more information or to book this package.

Chaminade Resort & Spa Wine Package with Summit to the Sea Wineries

The Summit to Sea Wine Trail focuses on a unique collection of small wineries. Spend a relaxing day with wineries of your choosing, on this self-guided tour. This weekend wine package starts at $300++ and includes luxury overnight accommodations, complimentary tasting passes to five Summit to Sea wineries, including: Poetic Cellars, Loma Prieta,  Burrell School, MJA Vineyards and Dancing Creek.  Package also includes a winery map and brochures of featured wine trail wineries, a picnic lunch for two, with cheese platter and crackers, fresh fruit, turkey or veggie wrap, fruit tart and bottled water.  Corkage fee is waived on wines purchased from the Summit to Sea wineries when dining in Chaminade’s on-site restaurants! Package available Friday and Saturday only. Winery hours subject to change, some blackout dates apply.  Valid until December 31, 2011.  To book the package or learn more, call 800.283.6569 or visit www.chaminadepackages.com

Hit the Corralitos Wine Trail with the Seascape Beach Resort

The Seascape Beach Resort is offering guests a wine tasting experience on Saturdays during the month of September.  Guests already staying at the resort can purchase tickets at a 25% discount for wine tasting at all four wineries on the nearby Corralitos Wine Trail will receive a complimentary tasting glass.  Additionally, guests who bring a bottle of wine from one of the Corralitos Wine Trail wineries to Sanderlings restaurant will receive free corkage and a complimentary dinner appetizer for two.  Wine tasting tickets available for purchase through Resort Concierge Services. Valid on Saturdays during the month of September 2011 only.  For more information, call 800.929.7727.

Private Vineyard Tours at Windy Oaks Estate Vineyards & Winery

Private walking tours of Windy Oaks Estate Vineyards & Winery’s 15-acre vineyard, winery and barrel room, where guests will taste the wines, learn about Windy Oaks’ barrel program, winemaking techniques, unique canopy management, organic/sustainable vineyard practices and more. By advance reservation only, $25/person for tour, tasting, and light snacks; $35/person for tour, tasting, and gourmet box lunch on the vineyard ridge overlooking the Monterey Bay. Tours offered daily, except Sundays.  To book this tour, call the winery direct at 831.724.9562.

“Fall for Our Mountains” on the Summit to the Sea Wine Trail

The Fall for Our Mountains” promotion includes two-for-one tasting at each of the five wineries on the Summit to the Sea Wine Trail, custom fall-themed coasters and special fall discounts on wine.  Start your self-guided wine tasting tour at any of the wineries and receive a card to have stamped at subsequent tasting rooms to receive a special tasting, discount or gift!  Summit to the Sea Wine Trail Wineries include:  Burrell School Winery, Dancing Creek Winery, Poetic Cellars, Loma Prieta Winery and MJA Vineyards.  Valid until Friday, November 18, 2011.  Visit www.summittoseawinetrail.com for more information.

For more wine-related fun, the 29th Annual Capitola Art & Wine Festival takes place September 10 – 11, 2011.  Held in Capitola Village from 10am – 6pm, this yearly event showcases fine art, wine tasting, gourmet food, and eclectic music. Event details can be found at http://www.capitolachamber.com/artwine.html

At the Museum of Art & History at the McPherson Center in Santa Cruz, Creativity Under the Influence happens on Thursday, September 29, 2011!  Beginning at 6:30 pm, learn proper pairings of pizza and wine or create under the influence and design your own. More information can be found at http://www.santacruzmah.org/future/2011/creativity-under-the-influence-september/

For a Do-it-Yourself way for visitors to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of the wine country lifestyle during California Wine Month, a spirited courtyard on the west side of Santa Cruz is a local favorite where wineries, shops and restaurants can be found.  Always brimming with something new to see or taste, this lively spot is home to Bonny Doon Vineyards and a number of tasting rooms that make up Surf City Vintners.  For a more rural experience, visitors can opt to taste wine along the Corralitos Wine Trail, an idyllic region in South County where four family-owned wineries are surrounded by redwood trees and apple orchards.   And for world-class wines with unparalleled views, the five wineries on the Summit Wine Trail are all within easy reach of one another.

An array of local restaurants offer wine and food pairings.  For the perfect blend of wine and cuisine, stop by Capitola’s Shadowbrook restaurant or Soif Wine Bar in Downtown Santa Cruz where sumptuous pairings of food and wine from around the world are presented in a hip, urban setting.  And Casablanca restaurant boasts one of the most extensive wine cellars in Santa Cruz County.  In Soquel Village, Bargetto Winery, one of the oldest family-run wineries of the Santa Cruz Mountains, has been producing hand-crafted wine for nearly a century, including delicious Santa Cruz Mountain varietals.  And on the Santa Cruz Wharf, Vino Prima specializes in California wines, and offers twenty different wines to taste on a daily basis, paired with unparalleled views of the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and the gleaming blue Monterey Bay.

California is the leading destination for wine and food travel in the U.S., producing 90 percent of American wine. According to the Wine Institute, nearly 21 million local and out-of-state travelers visit California wine regions each year.   With the over 1,200 wineries throughout the state harvesting grapes in September, California is the fourth largest wine producer in the world and is responsible for $18.5 billion in retail sales in the U.S.

For more information on winetasting in Santa Cruz County, visit www.santacruz.org

More information:

Santa Cruz County Celebrates California Wine Month

http://www.santacruz.org/documents/wine-month-flyer2011.pdf

Winetasting in Santa Cruz County

http://www.santacruz.org/things/wine-tasting.php

California Travel & Tourism Commission – California Wine Month

http://www.visitcalifornia.com/winemonth#SAN_FRANCISCO_BAY_AREA__NAPA_VALLEY)

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A private, non-profit corporation, the Santa Cruz County Conference and Visitors Council (CVC) exists to enhance tourism and the economy by positioning Santa Cruz County as a visitor, conference and film destination. For more information, contact the CVC at 831-425-1234 or 800-833-3494.  Or visit CVC’s web site at www.santacruz.org.

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Contact:  Christina Glynn, Communications Director/Film Commissioner
Phone: 831.425.1234 ext.112, email: cglynn@santacruz.org

WATSONVILLE, CA – Are you ready to join the fastest-growing outdoor activity in the United States?  This fall, the Watsonville-based seventh Annual Monterey Bay Birding Festival will take place Thursday, September 22^nd through Sunday, September 25, 2011.

The festival offers expert-led field trips, specialized birding outings for beginners, “slough safaris” of the Elkhorn Slough via kayak and pontoon boat, a pelagic trip on the Monterey Bay to view sea birds, a trip to Pinnacles National Monument, vagrant chasing at the Carmel River mouth, pelagic trips of the Monterey Bay, excursions to the Ventana Wildlife Society’s Discovery Center at Andrew Molera State Park in scenic Big Sur and other activities.  A stellar line-up of expert birders leading day trips as well as evening presenters are sure to please even the most discriminating birders.  This year’s theme, The Evolution of Birding – From Field Guides to Hi-Tech will celebrate the bygone days of John James Audubon to the modern days of hi-tech innovations in birding.

On Thursday evening, a special presentation by birder and naturalist Steve Shunk will explore The Names, Namers, and Naming of North America Birds.  On Friday and Saturday evenings, the popular Owls of Robinson Canyon excursions will take birders on a search for Great Horned Owls, Spotted Owls, Western Screech-Owls, Northern Pygmy-Owls, Northern Saw-whet Owls and other types of this mysterious and nocturnal bird.

The Santa Cruz County Visitors Council’s free Birding and Wildlife Watching guide will be available during the festival.  The 44-page guide is designed for use by visitors to communities adjacent to the many birding destinations throughout the county.  The guide includes information on a variety of habitats, from sandy beaches to lagoons, wetlands and river mouths, as well as descriptions and photographs of the some of the area’s most commonly seen birds, wildlife and the best times of the year to view them. It also provides maps of birding and wildlife hotspots, points of interest, and itineraries.  According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 31 percent of Americans engage in wildlife watching as a hobby or recreational activity, an increase of 13 percent from a decade ago.

The free guide is also available at the Santa Cruz County Conference and Visitors Council’s main visitor center at 1211 Ocean Street in Santa Cruz, via mail by request through www.birding.travel, or by calling 800.833.3494.

Registration can be done on-line at www.montereybaybirding.org or via mail.  Registration is available for the entire festival, individual days or select evening activities.   The registration fee for the four-day festival is $40; one-day registration is also available and pricing for a variety of activities starts at $10.

The Birding Festival Web site, www.montereybaybirding.org provides a registration and ticketing, full festival schedule, description of events, and other information. Visitors can log on to www.birding.travel to help plan their trip.

For more information on Santa Cruz County, visit the CVC website at www.santacruz.org

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Contact:  Christina Glynn, Communications Director/Film Commissioner
Phone: 831.427.4405 ext.112, email: cglynn@santacruz.org

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA— Get geared up for patriotic summer fun in Santa Cruz County filled with plenty of Independence Day options, and pledge your allegiance to spending your patriotic holiday at one of the many dazzling celebrations throughout Santa Cruz County.  Visitors have a variety of events to choose from as the nation marks its 235^th birthday.

Don’t miss the “World’s Shortest Parade,” in Aptos.  (http://www.santacruz.org/events/index.php?evtid=5290)  This year marks the 50^th anniversary of this parade and celebration!  Covering all of two blocks, the parade includes nearly every Aptos resident, both human and animal, dressed up in patriotic splendor. Visitors are welcome to participate – just arrive in costume and be prepared for fun!  Following the parade, enjoy  arts and crafts and live music at Aptos Village Park. The festivities begin with a pancake breakfast at 7:30 a.m. and the parade starts at 10:00 a.m.

Family fun is the word at Roaring Camp Railroads (www.roaringcamp.com) – the hub for Fourth of July fun for young and old.  All weekend long step back into the past with the Great Train Robberies at Roaring Camp. Hide your pocketbooks and valuables because notorious outlaws from the 1880s are sure to hold up Roaring Camp’s steam trains as they reach the top of Bear Mountain. Shootouts, skirmishes and other blazing reenactments bring the Old West to life.  After your wild railroad adventure, be sure to stick around for the independence celebration, 1950’s-style! Roaring Camp’s Sock Hop and 50’s style family Fourth of July events include hula hoop contests, games, live music and all-American barbecue.

Make sure you pay a visit to the “Spirit of Watsonville” (www.spiritofwatsonville.org) Independence Day Celebration with a big parade on Main Street! Cruise on over for Fourth of July spirit, great local cuisine and plenty of things to see and do!  Celebrate the 160^th anniversary of Watsonville and American pride with the downtown parade, food and activities following the procession. For more info on the Fourth event visit http://www.spiritofwatsonville.org

Get ready for bright lights in the night sky Scott’s Valley Fourth! Start your Independence Day celebration in Scotts Valley (www.scottsvalleychamber.com) with the annual Parade along Scotts Valley Drive. Then it is on to Skypark, (http://www.santacruzca.org/things/parks.php?attid=83696) where gates open at 3 p.m. for fun and activities, live music and a delicious local food to enjoy! End your night with a bang! The only fireworks display in Santa Cruz County start at 9:15 p.m.  Visit the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce (www.scottsvalleychamber.com) for more information and ticket prices.

For more information on these and other events, contact the Santa Cruz County Conference & Visitors Council at 800.833.3494 or visit www.santacruzevents.travel

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Contact:  Christina Glynn, Communications Director/Film Commissioner
Phone: 831.427.4405 ext.112, email: cglynn@santacruz.org

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA – The Santa Cruz County Conference & Visitors Council (CVC) is poised to launch its third arts and culture marketing campaign, highlighting this summer’s signature events to encourage visitors and locals to add art to their summer itineraries.

The marketing campaign will involve airing scheduled television spots on Comcast stations June 6 through June 27th.  The spots will drive traffic to the CVC Web site, www.artinsantacruz.com, which features an enhanced arts and culture section where visitors can find information about art and culture-related attractions and events, travel packages, the City of Santa Cruz’s public art walking tour, access to a countywide museum brochure, and other activities.

The television marketing campaign will feature four of Santa Cruz County’s signature arts and culture events:  the Capitola Twilight Concerts, Shakespeare Santa Cruz, the Scotts Valley Art & Wine Festival and the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music.  The campaign will also feature the new countywide museum brochure.

Research from the CVC council shows that over 30 percent of visitors are interested in cultural tourism events and activities, and a study by Americans for the Arts found that countywide, the nonprofit arts and culture industry brings in 537,677 event attendees with a total event related spending of $16.29 million, excluding the cost of event admission.

For more information on how the CVC is helping to promote the arts in Santa Cruz County, call 831.425.1234, or visit www.artinsantacruz.com

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Contact:  Christina Glynn, Communications Director/Film Commissioner
Phone: 831.427.4405 ext.112, email: cglynn@santacruz.org

May 10, 2011

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA— The Santa Cruz County Conference and Visitor’s Council (CVC) announces the launch of their new blog today to commemorate National Tourism Day. Today, Tuesday, May 10^th falls in the middle of National Travel and Tourism Week, May 7 – 15, 2011, celebrated by the tourism industry and communities across the nation to help promote travel and recognize the cultural and social benefits created by tourism.

The CVC’s visitor-friendly blog can be accessed from the homepage of the CVC’s Web site, www.santacruzcounty.travel, which hosts over 1.7 million page views a year.   The blog features topics ranging from Attractions, Beaches and Food & Wine to Vacation Ideas and Where to Stay.  Stories and photography are contributed by guest writers from the local tourism industry and CVC staff.  The CVC blog is positioned as an additional resource to market new partners, events and news as well as encourage visitors to interact with the CVC, creating a dialogue between local tourism experts and the visiting public.

Blogs are growing in popularity as a resource for visitors to research vacation ideas and are a valuable tool for capturing the essence of a destination, in part due to their informal, non-commercial presence.

“Our blog reaches visitors in a whole new way and in a different voice, providing ‘the story behind the story’ of our destination,” said Maggie Ivy, CEO and Executive Vice President of the CVC.  “It’s another tool we’re providing to a social-media savvy audience.”

Sponsored by the U.S. Travel Association, National Travel and Tourism Week was established in 1983 by former President Ronald Reagan, and is recognized by Destination Marketing Organizations (DMO’s) like the Santa Cruz County CVC across the country.

For more information on CVC marketing and promotional efforts visit: www.santacruzcounty.travel

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Contact: Christina Glynn, Communications Director/Film Commissioner
Phone: 831-425-1234, ext. 112
Jennifer Sweeney, 916.233.0255
jsweeney@visitcalifornia.com

April 25, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SACRAMENTO, CA— How well do you know Jack (O’Neill)?  Santa Cruz County is part of an exciting national online promotion that the California Travel and Tourism Commission (CTTC) is launching today.   This eight-week sweepstakes encourages everyone to “Live Like a Californian,” with once-in-a-lifetime prize packages that will let winners do just that – including the chance to win a trip to Santa Cruz!  Each grand prize includes round-trip flights for four, three nights’ lodging, a rental car and a destination experience themed around one of the eight Californian innovators and icons – including local wetsuit pioneer Jack O’Neill – featured in the campaign. 

The sweepstakes will be featured on www.visitcalifornia.com/sweepstakes, which will give entrants an overview of the promotion, along with weekly prize overviews and the weekly featured grand prize.  Each weekly quiz will be themed around the featured Californian and include a bio, along with four questions to be answered for bonus entries.  Duplicate quiz functionality will be found on CTTC’s Facebook page, with a preliminary step to ‘Like’ Visit California in order to access the quiz.  Upon submission of the entry form, the user will be invited to ‘Share’ with Facebook for an additional bonus entry.  The contest begins on April 25 and continues through June 15, 2011. 

“Travelers from all over the world seek California’s lifestyle,” said Caroline Beteta, CTTC president & CEO. “Our ‘Live like a Californian’ contest will let eight lucky winners fulfill their dreams, living like – and in some cases, meeting – the celebrities and pioneers who reflect the state’s unique attitude and spirit.”

The sweepstakes, which launches today, will also award weekly prizes, including round-trip flights, courtesy of Travelocity and $250 California-branded Visa cards.

Locally, the Seascape Beach Resort is featured in this promotion, offering a grand prize of two one bedroom ocean view suites for three nights, with a Beachfire-to-Go and S’mores. The winner of the Santa Cruz Vacation Sweepstakes will also receive a great package of O’Neill gear along with private facility tours and a surfing experience with an O’Neill pro. 

“Jack O’Neill embodies the idea of a one-of-a-kind personality – as an entrepreneur and pioneer of the wetsuit – a now iconic image of Santa Cruz which certainly extends to the California lifestyle,” said Maggie Ivy, Executive Vice President and CEO of the Santa Cruz County Conference & Visitors Council.  

Hollywood icon Betty White; surfing legend Jack O’Neill; musician Jason Mraz, extreme skier Glen Plake and Chef Roy Choi are among those who will be featured during each successive week.

Some of the “money can’t buy” experiences include:

• Betty White, Hollywood – go behind-the-scenes with Betty on the set of her hit series “Hot in Cleveland”.
• Jason Mraz, San Diego – get the star treatment with a chauffeured ride and tickets to Jason’s show, then meet him backstage! 
• Kevin Rafferty, Disneyland – experience the magic of Disneyland with a tour of the Imagineering studio with senior concept writer Kevin Rafferty, and then go park-hopping.
• Glen Plake, Mammoth – hit the slopes with Glen before the mountain opens, then enjoy après ski happy hour during a private luxury snowcap tour of the back country. 
• Frank Almeda, San Francisco – take a private tour with Frank of the “Living Roof” and the California Academy of Sciences capped with a picnic lunch and dinner in the Moss Room with menus by famous San Francisco chefs.. 
• Roy Choi, Los Angeles – go behind the scenes of LA’s hottest street food – Kogi BBQ –with Roy, followed by a tasting tour of his favorite LA eateries.
• Jack O’Neill, Santa Cruz – tour O’Neill headquarters where you’ll be outfittedwith O’Neill gear, then go surfing (or take lessons) with an O’Neill pro.
• Randy Lewis, Napa – join Randy for a private tasting and picnic at Lewis Cellars in Napa Valley, followed by a spin around the track at Infineon Raceway.

The sweepstakes will be featured on www.visitcalifornia.com/sweepstakes, which will give entrants an overview of the promotion, along with weekly prize overviews and the weekly featured grand prize.  Each weekly quiz will be themed around the featured Californian and include a bio, along with four questions to be answered for bonus entries.  Duplicate quiz functionality will be found on CTTC’s Facebook page, with a preliminary step to ‘Like’ Visit California in order to access the quiz.  Upon submission of the entry form, the user will be invited to ‘Share’ with Facebook for an additional bonus entry.

For more information on the “Live like a Californian” sweepstakes, friend CTTC on Facebook at www.facebook.com/VisitCA and follow CTTC on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/CATourism for the latest contest details.

About CTTC: CTTC is a non-profit organization with a mission to develop and maintain marketing programs – in partnership with the state’s travel industry – that keep California top-of-mind as a premier travel destination. According to CTTC, travel and tourism expenditures total $87.7 billion annually in California, support jobs for 881,000 Californians and generate $5.3 billion in state and local tax revenues. For more information about CTTC and for a free California Visitor’s Guide, go to www.VisitCalifornia.com.

About the CVC: A private, non-profit corporation, the Santa Cruz County Conference and Visitors Council (CVC) exists to enhance tourism and the economy by positioning Santa Cruz County as a visitor, conference and film destination. For more information, contact the CVC at 831-425-1234 or 800-833-3494.  Or visit the CVC’s web site at www.santacruzcounty.travel

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Contact: Christina Glynn, Communications Director/Film Commissioner
Phone: 831-425-1234, ext. 112, email: cglynn@santacruz.org

April 5, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA – To celebrate Santa Cruz’s status as the birthplace of mainland surfing and a favorite vacation destination of visitors from around the globe, the Santa Cruz County Conference and Visitor’s Council (CVC), is giving away seven days of fun, sun and surf:  a totally awesome week-long vacation in California’s favorite beach town!   The Santa Cruz Surf City Vacation contest includes a week’s stay at a beach house vacation rental, passes to the legendary Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, passes to Roaring Camp Railroads, surf lessons, a kayak excursion, and gift certificates for lunch and shopping in Capitola Village.  The contest is currently underway, and if you’re eager to hit the surf, grab your board and head on over to www.santacruz.travel to enter to win. New for 2011, the contest can also be entered via SMS text message.  Visitors wanting to enter the contest can text “SurfCityVacation” to 77007 and be entered to win.  The contest continues through June 30, 2011 and a winner will be drawn randomly this summer.

Vacationers who surf the Web may see ads for the contest on TripAdvisor.com and the California Travel & Tourism Commission’s Web site, in addition to Central Valley, Sacramento and San Francisco Bay Area television stations.

The CVC’s marketing campaign and prize package is made possible with the support of Beach Street Inn & Suites, Capitola Village, Chaminade Resort & Spa, Comfort Inn Santa Cruz, Howard Johnson Inn Santa Cruz Fisherman’s Wharf, Howden Castle, Pajaro Dunes Resort, Roaring Camp Railroads, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruz Dream Inn, Seascape Beach Resort and the University Inn & Conference Center.

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