FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 6, 2024

Media contact: David Perry Associates, Inc / (415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com

Moxie Art in a Box Cultural Exchange: Elementary Art Collaboration between Palm Springs and Sister City San Miguel de Allende

Palm Springs Sister Cities, The Foundation for Palm Springs Unified School District and the City of Palm Springs are thrilled to announce an exciting cross-cultural art project between Vista Del Monte Elementary in Palm Springs and Newland School in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. The “Moxie Art in a Box” Cultural Exchange brings together 4th graders from Palm Springs and 3rd and 4th graders from San Miguel de Allende to explore art, symbolism, and cultural elements that bind their cities.

“This collaboration with San Miguel de Allende exemplifies the spirit of cultural connection that makes Palm Springs a truly global city,” said Jeffrey Bernstein, the Mayor of Palm Springs. “Through art, our students not only learn about another culture but also strengthen the bonds that unite our communities across borders.”

“As a district with a large population of students of Hispanic heritage, this project is an invaluable opportunity for our students to connect with their cultural roots while broadening their global perspective,” said Tony Signoret, Superintendent of Palm Springs Unified School District. “The Art in a Box exchange fosters pride, creativity, and a deeper appreciation for the diverse traditions that enrich our community.”

“This initiative is a powerful way to inspire our young students, nurturing their creativity while connecting them to their cultural heritage,” said Mauricio Trejo, Mayor of San Miguel de Allende. “By engaging in this cross-cultural exchange, we are shaping the next generation of leaders who will build on these shared values and carry forward the strong ties between our cities.”

The project will run for one week and includes four engaging 20-minute classroom sessions, culminating in a joint Zoom celebration on November 8th with mayors from both cities, school board members, educators, and students.

This collaboration will showcase a vibrant exchange of ideas, symbols, and traditions through the art of Hojalata (tin art), where students will create unique, meaningful artwork inspired by cultural components from their personal lives and their respective cities. Each session will deepen their understanding of their own culture while exploring the richness of the other. The exchange will culminate in a final session where the students from both cities come together via Zoom to present their creations and celebrate the shared experience.

Key Event:

• Date: Friday, November 8, 2024
• Time: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
• Location: Vista Del Monte Elementary School, Palm Springs, CA
• Photo Opportunities: The mayors of San Miguel de Allende and Palm Springs, along with the students, and the Palm Springs Unified School Board will be available for photographs during this special event. Don’t miss this chance to capture the heartwarming collaboration between the students as they present their unique artworks.

In addition to the in-person celebration, classrooms in both cities will connect virtually throughout the project. Classes will be conducted in both English and Spanish, allowing students to learn from each other and foster an even greater cultural bond. Students will explore symbolism, carve, decorate, and apply finishing touches to their Hojalata art pieces, guided by expert educators from both cities.

Palm Springs Mayor Jeffrey Bernstein and San Miguel de Allende Mayor Mauricio Trejo will join the Zoom celebration, recognizing the students’ efforts and highlighting the importance of this cultural bridge. Both mayors, along with other dignitaries, will witness the students explain their artwork and share how this cross-cultural collaboration has inspired them.

This initiative reflects the ongoing commitment of Palm Springs and its Sister City, San Miguel de Allende, to foster meaningful cultural exchanges, expand students’ world views, and strengthen the relationship between the two cities.

For more information on the Sister Cities initiatives, please visit sistercitiesps.org.

Virtual Briefing: What happens next in the Middle East and how will results from the US election impact what happens?

When: Thursday November 7

Time: 10am Pacific (1pm Eastern)

Click Here to Register

The American Middle East Press Association invites you to a virtual press briefing Thursday November 7 at 1pm ET/10am ET with Ruth Wasserman Lande, former Member of the Knesset, diplomat, CEO of a strategic consultancy and an expert commentator on Israel and the Middle East.

Wasserman Lande will give her unique and expert perspective on  the following issues:

* What happens next in the Middle East?

* How will results from the US election impact what happens next?

* What are some potential surprises?

Join us for an intimate virtual gathering to discuss these issues and more. Click here to register or email info@amepress.com with any questions.

media contact: David Perry & Assoc, Inc. / (415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com

Celebrate a Magical Holiday at The Marker Hotel

Dickensian Carolers, Festive Decor & Cocktails, Customizable Holiday Packages, and a Partnership with A.C.T.’s “A Whynot Christmas Carol”

5 November 2024 – San Francisco, CA: Step into a world of holiday enchantment at The Marker Hotel www.themarkersf.com in San Francisco just off Union Square, where the spirit of Charles Dickens fills the air and holiday cheer abounds. From holiday decorations and activations inside-and-out, a special theatre package with American Conservatory Theatre (A.C.T) for their production of “A Whynot Christmas Carol”, in-lobby carolers, festive cocktails inspired by family recipes to customizable event packages for all celebrations, The Marker is the perfect destination to experience the holiday magic of the season.

“We are thrilled to create a truly immersive holiday experience this year, one designed for our local residents and out-of-town visitors alike,” said Brian Fenwick, Managing Director of The Marker Hotel. “We are decking our halls with music, mirth and a plethora of merry cocktails. Plus, our association with A.C.T. reflects our commitment to honoring San Francisco’s artistic legacy, and we can’t wait for guests to feel the magic of the holidays through this unique collaboration.”

Throughout the Holiday Season, guests are invited to savor seasonal cocktails at The Marker’s signature hotel, Tratto, with musical accompaniment by the award-winning including Mistletoe Carolers.

Tratto’s special holiday cocktail menu includes:

Dickensian Eggnog: A rich, creamy, nonalcoholic delight based on the chef’s family recipe, perfect on its own or spiked with your favorite holiday spirit.

Gingerbread Martini: Vodka, crème de cacao, gingerbread syrup, half and half, topped with whipped cream and a gingerbread cookie for an irresistible holiday treat.

Spiced Cranberry Rum Old Fashioned: A blend of spiced rum, orange juice, clove and cinnamon syrup, cranberry juice, and bitters, garnished with orange peel, fresh cranberries, and a cinnamon stick. The holiday cocktail menu will launch on November 22 just in time for A.C.T’s opening night on November 26.

Adding to the ambiance, Dickensian carolers will serenade guests with classic holiday tunes on the following Friday and Saturday evenings: December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21. Catch these enchanting performances from 4pm – 7pm, a perfect prelude or encore to the nearby A.C.T. production.

“It’s going to be a Dickens of a good time,” laughed Tim Salaver, director of the Mistletoe Carolers. “The Marker’s classic architecture lends itself to the traditional and contemporary sounds of our group, making for a perfect prelude to an evening of Victorian Holiday festiveness.”

The Mistletoe Carolers has been the premier entertainment solution for the holidays since 2016 with over 70 professional singers performing for over 300 events throughout the greater San Francisco Bay Area from San Jose to St. Helena and from San Francisco to Stockton.  “We love our partnership with The Marker Hotel,” says Salaver, “and our singers love the ambience and the decorations that fill the lobby.”

In an exciting new dining pairing with San Francisco’s acclaimed A.C.T. (American Conservatory Theater), The Marker brings the magic of “A Whynot Christmas Carol” to life just steps away from the theater’s historic stage. This fresh and heartwarming production of the Dickens classic runs from November 26 through December 24 and guests staying at The Marker can enjoy exclusive offerings inspired by the show.

Book Your Holiday Event at The Marker:
For a memorable holiday party, The Marker offers fully customizable packages. From intimate dinners and lively happy hours to glamorous receptions for groups of 15 to 350, our event spaces are designed to make holiday gatherings unforgettable. For a unique twist, The Marker’s entertainment partner, Dinner Detective, offers a thrilling Murder Mystery experience with curated cocktails and a delectable menu. For more information on The Marker’s holiday offerings, visit www.themarkersf.com

media contact:
David Perry & Associates, Inc / (415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com 

Porchfest Benicia to Return for Second Year:
Saturday, September 13, 2025

Over 10,000 Music Lovers Celebrate Inaugural Event Last Month, Setting Stage for Another Unforgettable Experience

1 November 2024 – Benicia, CA: The good folks at Benicia Magazine built it, and indeed, people came, saw and danced in the streets. Following the overwhelming success of this year’s Porchfest Benicia (www.porchfest-benicia.com), organizers have announced the date for the second annual event: Saturday, September 13, 2025. With more than 10,000 attendees last month filling Benicia’s historic streets and enjoying live performances from over 20 bands from all over the Bay Area as well as local talent , Porchfest Benicia has already become one of the Bay Area’s most anticipated community events.

“This year’s Porchfest was an absolute triumph,” said Mary Hand, Publisher of Benicia Magazine and creative force behind the free musical festival. “It was thrilling to see our porches and streets come alive with music, laughter, and joy. The support from the community has been incredible, and we’re already gearing up to make next year’s event even bigger and better.”

Porchfest Benicia, which brings together residents and visitors for a day of free live music on porches throughout the city, is a unique celebration of local talent and community spirit. This year’s event not only exceeded expectations in attendance but also showcased Benicia’s vibrant music scene, from up-and-coming artists to seasoned performers.

“The energy was electric,” said Benicia Mayor Steve Young. “This festival has truly captured the heart of Benicia. It’s more than just a music event – it’s a community experience. I’m already looking forward to next year and seeing how it continues to grow. Benicia has always been a city that fosters creativity and connection, and Porchfest exemplifies that. We were so pleased to see such a great turnout, and we can’t wait to welcome even more people next year.”

Organizers are already planning the 2025 edition, aiming to feature even more local musicians, expanded food and beverage options, and additional activities for families.

“Porchfest is all about bringing people together,” said Hand. “We’re excited to build on this year’s success and offer an unforgettable day for the community next September with even more bands, more local food, wine and art. And, of course, even more attendees!”

Porchfest is an annual celebration that began in Ithaca, New York, in 2007, and has since spread across the United States and Canada. It brings together local musicians and community members to showcase their talents on front porches, storefronts, and driveways, promoting a sense of community and pride. Nestled on the Carquinez Strait, Benicia is a city rich in history and culture, known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and welcoming community.

“Benicia is a perfect match for bringing Porchfest to our area,” Hand sums up. “This year’s inaugural Porchfest Benicia highlighted the best of what the city has to offer, blending music, history, and local flavor into a memorable celebration for all.”

media contacts
Omer Tuval
+ 972 52-222-0936

Or Moshe
+ 972 50-831-0665
media@bringthemhomenow.net

Media Advisory from the Hostages and Missing Families Forum Headquarters

Invitation to Cover – Hostages’ Families Rally at Hostages Square: “It’s Time”
Saturday Night | November 2 | 8PM | Hostages Square, Tel Aviv

This Saturday night marks 393 days, 101 hostages were taken captive by Hamas. In recent days, the hostages’ families have been following the negotiations with heightened anticipation, hope, and anxiety.

The war’s objectives have been achieved. Hamas has been dismantled, creating conditions for a hostage deal and bringing everyone home.

Speakers at the Tel Aviv rally:

• Maya Regev – Hamas captivity survivor, released in the previous deal after 54 days.
• Noam Idan Ben Ezra and Amir Idan – sister and cousin of Tsachi Idan. Amir’s brother, Master Sergeant (res.) Guy Idan, fell last week in Lebanon
• Ronen and Orna Neutra – parents of Omer Neutra, who marked his 23rd birthday in captivity this week
• Ilan Dalal – father of Guy Gilboa Dalal
• Noam Katz – daughter of Lior Rudaiff
• Dr. Ayelet Levy Shachar – mother of Naama Levy

In addition to the main rally in Tel Aviv, dozens of rallies and protest vigils will be held throughout the country, with major gatherings taking place in Jerusalem, Carmei Gat, and Sha’ar HaNegev Junction.

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The Hostages Families Forum Headquarters