Media contacts:  
David Perry / David Perry & Associates, Inc. / (415) 676-7007 / news@davidperry.com
Lorene Frank / (831) 234-2024 / LoreneF@westmarine.com

West Marine US Open Sailing Series Highlights Olympians Old and New

The new sailing series from US Sailing concludes in
San Francisco with Olympian panel series on Wednesday, August 11 & Thursday, August 12

Final Set of Races August 13 – 15 at Three Iconic Bay Clubs: St. Francis Yacht Club, Treasure Island Sailing Center, San Francisco Yacht Club

4 August 2021 – Fort Lauderdale, FL: West Marine and US Sailing are thrilled to announce the final event of the inaugural 2021 West Marine US Open Sailing Series. The final set of races is scheduled to kick off August 13-15 in the San Francisco Bay hosted by the St. Francis Yacht Club, Treasure Island Sailing Center and San Francisco Yacht Club.  Prior to the first event, West Marine will host a panel of Olympians, Olympic hopefuls and potential Tokyo Olympic medalists at the Sausalito and Alameda West Marine locations.

“West Marine is pleased to recognize and support past Olympic sailors, future Olympic sailing hopefuls and inspire all casual sailors to enjoy the great sport of sailing.”  said Ken Seipel, CEO of West Marine. “The first three US Sailing events earlier this year in Florida and two recent events in Southern California were a huge success and we are thrilled to support continuation of the series in San Francisco which helps increase awareness and excitement for the sport of sailing.”

The West Marine Alameda, located in the South Shore Center, will host Olympian Helena Scutt along with other Olympic hopefuls on August 11, at 5:30 PM. Scutt is a 2016 Olympian and former member of the US Sailing Team. She competed at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro in the Women’s 49erFX. The panel discussion will be moderated by US Sailing Marketing Director, Josh Toso. Join them to learn about the experience of racing in the Olympics and the road to get there.  Click here to register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/163268014025

The West Marine Sausalito, located on Donahue St., will host a special evening with Olympian Pam Healy along with Olympic hopefuls on August 12, at 5:30 PM. Healy, a major advocate for women and youth sailing as an organizer, volunteer instructor, coach, and mentor – both nationally and locally in the San Francisco Bay Area. Healy won a bronze medal at the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Spain. She did so in the 470 class with JJ Fetter of San Diego. This panel discussion will be moderated by the U.S. Olympic Sailing Team Executive Director, Paul Cayard.  Click here to register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/163268014025

Media is invited to attend both events with panelists and representatives from US Sailing and West Marine available to answer questions before and after event.

“The West Marine US Open Sailing Series is a pillar of our strategy to rebuild the US Sailing Team and stand atop the Olympic Podium in LA 2028.” Said Paul Cayard, Executive Director of U.S. Olympic Sailing. “By hosting six events across our nation, each year, we will cast the net wide and give opportunity to many thousands of our top sailing talent.”

For more information visit:  https://usopen.ussailing.org

About West Marine

West Marine is the world’s largest outfitter, educator and source of inspiration for all boaters, offering the widest selection of product at more than 237 marine centers located in 38 states and Puerto Rico. The company’s digital platform allows boaters to shop anytime from anywhere. West Marine is recognized as a leading resource for cruisers, sailors, anglers and all water sports enthusiasts. West Marine employees share the same love for the water as our customers and provide helpful advice on the gear and gadgets they need to be safe and have fun. To learn more about West Marine, please visit the West Marine website at www.westmarine.com.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Cindy Ramesh  
Hilton San Francisco Union Square Hotel (415) 202-7739
cindy.ramesh@hilton.com

David Perry 
For Hilton
(415) 676-7007  news@davidperry.com 

Cityscape Lounge—San Francisco’s Tallest Sky Bar—Reopens 

Iconic Venue Atop Hilton San Francisco Union Square Returns 

Celebration Weekend Includes Drawing for 2-Night Stay in One Bedroom Luxury Suite

 August 4, 2021 — San Francisco, CA 

Cityscape Lounge one of San Francisco’s most spectacular attractions with a panoramic skyline view, will once again be serving up signature cocktails on the 46th-floor bar of Hilton San Francisco Union Square.  The popular spot to enjoy sunsets and city lights is offering “celebration weekend” attendees the chance to enter a drawing for a free two-night stay in a luxury one-bedroom suite at the Hilton San Francisco Union Square.

“Cityscape has been the delight of our guests and Bay Area residents since its grand opening in 1971,” said Terry Lewis, General Manager of Hilton San Francisco Union Square. “Our team is proud and excited to welcome patrons back to the space with our signature hospitality, unique craft cocktails, and the best view in SF.” 

Returning guests will find familiar favorites on the cocktail menu including Buzz Sparkle Pop, Cityscape’s photo-worthy signature libation featuring Buzz Bar alcoholic popsicles submerged in a glass of sparkling white wine. New cocktails include neighborhood-inspired creations such as Golden Gate, featuring Bozal Ensamble Mezcal; Pacific Heights, made with Nolet’s gin and Riondo prosecco; and Cole Valley, a floral blend with a base of Ketel One Botanical Vodka and Yellow Chartreuse. The menu also includes small plates, Bay Area craft beer and wine, top-shelf liquors, and a private reserve collection featuring rare vintages from prominent wineries such as California-based Stag’s Leap, Duckhorn, and Raymond Vineyard.

Cityscape Lounge hours are Thursday 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., and Friday, and Saturday from 5:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. PDT until further notice. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. To view bar menus, hours, and other details, visit Cityscape Lounge or call +1 415-923-5002. 

– ### –

Photo Assets: 

Cityscape Lounge

Hilton San Francisco Union Square

About Hilton San Francisco Union Square

Hilton San Francisco Union Square is the largest hotel in San Francisco, featuring 1,919 rooms and more than 135,000 square feet of meeting space. The property is located in San Francisco’s theater district, two blocks from Union Square. Amenities include an outdoor pool, four on-site dining outlets, and a 24-hour fitness center.

For reservations, visit Hilton San Francisco Union Square or call +1 415-771-1400.

media contact: 

David Perry / David Perry & Assoc, Inc. (415) 676-7007 / news@andresdavidperry-com
Brad Fuhr (323) 877-2020

KGAY 106.5 Radio Sold to Local LGBTQ+ Media Company 

Purchase of Popular Radio Station KGAY by Palm Springs Entrepeneur Ensures LGBTQ+ Ownership & Programming in Partnership with Gay Desert Guide

2 August 2021 – Palm Springs, CA:  Nearly three years ago, when radio veteran and founder of Gay Desert Guide Brad Fuhr helped launch KGAY 106.5, the airwaves and audience responded – big time!  Now, in a new agreement, Sunnylands Broadcasting has sold the popular franchise ensuring that “KGAY stays Gay”.   LGBTQ+ programming will be expanded with popular KGAY hosts returning to the airwaves today, Monday, August 2: John Taylor in the mornings and Chris Shebel in the afternoons. 

Fuhr is operating, then purchasing, the popular KGAY AM 1270 and FM 106.5 radio stations from Sunnylands Broadcasting, combining with his established digital and social brand, Gay Desert Guide. 

“Today’s audience accesses information and entertainment 24/7 across multiple platforms and with multiple devices. The new combination of KGAY Palm Springs and GayDesertGuide.LGBT meets that need, in real time, and in every medium”, said Fuhr, who is leading the two companies.

The new entity is organized as a California benefit corporation and provides multiple programming streams including the well-known and popular KGAYPalmSprings.com, AM 1270 and 106.5 FM music channel in addition to the #ILoveGayPalmSprings podcast.  Expanded programming will follow. The station will launch a new public service campaign called “KGAY Cares” for local non-profits. 

“KGAY should stay gay and this plan does just that,” said Greg Smith, co-owner of Sunnylands Broadcasting. “We have always been and remain committed to keeping the radio station in the ownership of an LGBTQ+ company. We are thrilled that the radio station will be operated by Brad  who is both an experienced broadcaster and a successful champion of the LGBTQ+ communities.

Understanding the challenge of reaching the LGBTQ+ audience, Fuhr and his team are taking an integrated approach to the new venture. The popular website and social media platforms GayDesertGuide and #ILoveGayPalmSprings will be re-integrated into KGAY radio for content, promotions and advertising plans.  

 Locally, KGAY entered the marketplace on Christmas Day 2018 with an immediate fan base. “KGAY has been remarkably successful” says Fuhr, noting that the station has worldwide listeners via its streaming platform and easy discovery as ‘K-GAY,’ the best call letters in the world.  “This will only expand and improve with new ownership and our integrated marketing plan.”

The station plays dance hits from the disco era to today.  Brand manager Chris Shebel originally concepted the dance hits format nationally.  He notes, “I was fortunate to be the first programmer of KGAY Palm Springs and I look forward to resuming that role. KGAY is a unique radio station with a strong role in our diverse Coachella valley communities. I’m excited to return to KGAY to oversee the music we play and help make our performers a strong part of the community.  Thanks to the current owners’ desire to keep the station in LGBTQ+ hands, we have an opportunity now to make KGAY a part of our communities for years to come.” Shebel will host afternoons on KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs.

With the highest concentration of LGBTQ+ residents in the USA, the Coachella Valley has proven that KGAY is a winning radio format. Add to it the nearly eight years of GayDesertGuide.LGBT being a top digital destination and the future bodes well. The new on-air, social media and digital platforms combine during a moment when Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley are emerging from the pandemic. 

The takeover was effective at midnight August 1, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of the launch of MTV, which declared ‘Video Killed the Radio Star’ with its first song.  Fuhr believes radio is still alive and kicking, and is happy to be returning to his roots, which started at his hometown radio station at age 15. This morning, the Coachella Valley is waking up to the new KGAY Palm Springs.

The station will be known as KGAY 106.5 Palm Springs and will provide the community with a daily take on what’s happening in the LGBTQ+ communities that it serves.  Gay Desert Guide is already known for its comprehensive coverage of news, events, attractions and tourist information through social media and its website. 

In the coming weeks, new content and features for the combined media portal will be launched, along with a full schedule of programming, all available online at www.GayDesertGuide.LGBT and KGAYPalmSprings.com

• 

• 

• 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Monday, August 2, 2021

Contact: Mayor’s Office of Communications, mayorspressoffice@sfgov.org

*** PRESS RELEASE ***

MAYOR LONDON BREED AND SFMTA WELCOME CABLE CARS BACK TO SAN FRANCISCO

The SFMTA will run mock service and will solicit the public’s help and feedback ahead of the official return to revenue service

San Francisco, CA — Mayor London N. Breed and the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) today welcomed back cable car service to San Francisco streets. Following the successful completion of operator training and mechanical inspections, the public is invited onboard to provide feedback on vehicle headways and customer experience during the month of August. Cable car revenue service will resume in September.

“I am so excited to announce that cable car service is starting back up today,” said Mayor London Breed. “Our cable cars are part of what makes San Francisco a world-class destination, and their return is just the latest sign that our city is bouncing back. I want to thank everyone at the SFMTA for their work during the pandemic to keep our transit system running and for everything they’ve done to bring back service in the City.”

Last March, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the SFMTA temporarily halted cable car service as part of the City’s emergency response. This decision was made to best protect operators and the public. Muni resources were then shifted to a core network to serve essential workers and accommodate physical distancing on San Francisco’s most utilized lines. The result was the longest cable car shutdown in the system since the full system reconstruction in the 1980s, requiring significant work to reboot the system and bring it back better. Now, as the City shifts its focus to supporting economic recovery, locals, regional visitors, and tourists will see the triumphant homecoming of the cable cars and hear the iconic bells chiming from Union Square to Fisherman’s Wharf—and all of the backdrops in between.

Starting today, we will ask the public to help the agency roll out a soft launch of the system by riding the lines when cable car conductors are making stops and inviting passengers aboard for the duration of “mock service.” This mock service will be irregular, not following a particular schedule as the SFMTA works out the official rollout of the system. The SFMTA will not be collecting fares for cable car rides during the month of August in exchange for the public’s help riding the system.

“Our cable cars are a symbol of San Francisco and central to the city’s economic recovery,” said Jeffrey Tumlin, SFMTA Director of Transportation. “It’s a treat to work with the public during our mock service as we gear up to officially welcome back cable cars this fall.”

By early September, all three cable cars will resume revenue service: the Powell-Hyde, the Powell-Mason and the California lines. Service is planned to run from 7:00 a.m. until about 10:00 p.m., though cars returning to the cable car barn after 10:00 p.m. will continue to take riders to Chinatown.

Anyone interested in cable car service updates is encouraged to subscribe to text or e-mail updates for more information.

#

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

Michael Costa MPP Named Executive Director for
California Association of Area Agencies on Aging (C4A)

State’s Leading Voice on Aging Issues Led by 30 Year Veteran
on National and Local Stage

www.c4a.info

29 July 2021 – Sacramento, CA: The Board of the California Association of Area Agencies on Aging (C4A) has named Michael Costa MPP as the organization’s new Executive Director, succeeding the retiring Derrell Kelch in that role. Costa will begin full time in early August.

“Michael is joining us at a pivotal time and will build upon the strong success of the C4A in advocating for additional investments for older adults and people with disabilities.  With his experience we are in great hands,” said Victoria Jump,  President of C4A.

Costa has over 30 years’ experience developing and implementing products, programs and policies impacting older adults and other vulnerable populations. He has worked with Area Agencies on Aging, local Community Benefit Organizations, and state trade associations, helping them understand and respond to opportunities in an evolving market and regulatory environment. His accomplishments include  gaining coverage and payment from government and private payers for breakthrough drugs and medical technologies, evaluating opportunities for new healthcare/social service hybrids, and developing strategies and infrastructures integrating social and healthcare service provision.

“I’m excited to join C4A, ” said Costa, 69.  “I look forward to expanding the organization’s contributions to social and health policy development benefitting older adults and people with disabilities in California.”

In addition, Costa has served on a number of national and local committees and taskforces that developed and  implemented policies promoting equity, non-discrimination,  increased access, and affordability. Examples include the 2020 Biden Campaign Health Policy and LGBTQI+ policy committees, where he developed Long Term Services and Supports and LGBTQI+ policy recommendations, and the San Francisco LGBT+ Aging Policy Taskforce, where he served as Chair of the Health Care Subcommittee.

Costa has been Vice President and Practice Leader at Lash Group Healthcare Consultants; Vice President and Corporate Secretary of 3R Holdings, Inc.; Vice President of Account Management at RXCentric.com; Director at Empire Blue Cross and Blue Shield; and Executive Director of Quintiles Transnational, Inc.   He has a BA from McGill University, an MA from Harvard, and an MPP in Health Economics and Policy Analysis from the University of Michigan, where he currently serves on the Advisory Committee of the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy. 

In his role as Executive Director Costa will, in concert with the C4A Board and Executive Committee, evaluate the opportunities for C4A to continue to develop and grow as an active advocate for older adults and people with disabilities in California. C4A looks forward to establishing collaborative partnerships to respond to initiatives such as CalAIM, the State Master Plan on Aging, and various federal Medicare and Medicaid program and benefit proposals currently in development. It is the Board’s belief that Michael’s leadership, knowledge, and experience will be very instrumental in achieving these goals.

“As an association, Meals on Wheels California has previously drawn on Michael’s substantial expertise,” said Daryl Twerdahl, Meals on Wheels California Executive Director. “We look forward to working with him and C4A now to amplify our collaborative relationship to improve the lives of vulnerable populations in California.”

The California Association of Area Agencies on Aging (C4A) (www.c4a.info) is a nonprofit organization representing California’s 33 area agencies on aging and is the leading voice on aging issues in California. C4A works closely with the Administration on Aging, the California Department of Aging, Department of Social Services, Department of Rehabilitation as well as key provider associations. C4A and its members administer programs that enable older Californians to live independently for as long as possible.  The purpose of C4A is to advocate on behalf of older persons, persons with disabilities, their caregivers and families, to provide leadership within the aging and disability communities, and promote a service delivery system that provides individual choice.