Bailey Gardiner - San Diego Advertising, Public Relations, Media, Interactive, Design

Posted by Lizzie

(SAN DIEGO, Calif. – December 18, 2008) Attached are the 2008 November Multiple Listing Service (MLS) statistics.

Total homes sales in the San Diego Region continued to exceed sales from the same time last year. Sold listing for detached units were up 47.7 percent and sales for attached units were up nearly 50 percent from November 2007. Sales of both types of properties were down slightly from last month. Detached sold listings decreased 24.8 percent and attached sold listings were down 23 percent from October of this year.

Properties spent slightly less time on the market than in previous months with the average days on market decreasing approximately 5 percent from last month.

“Although sales slowed slightly from last month, we are pleased to see that buyers are still taking advantage of the opportunities in this market. Properties spent less time on the market, which means there is a greater number of buyers and more competition in the marketplace. We encourage Congress to consider making the existing $7,500 first-time home buyer tax credit available to all home buyers,” says Mike Mercurio, SDAR Executive Vice President. “We also strongly support setting permanent loan limits for FHA, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac so there are not limits to the availabity of affordable mortgages.”

Here are highlights:

Total Sold Listings Comparing November 2008 to November 2007

• Attached: 49.5 percent increase – November 2008 = 755; November 2007 = 505
• Detached: 47.7 percent increase – November 2008 = 1,396; November 2007 = 945

Total Sold Listings Comparing November 2008 to October 2008

• Attached: 23 percent decrease – November 2008 = 755; October 2008 = 984
• Detached: 24.8 percent decrease – November = 1,396; October 2008 = 1,857

The San Diego Association of REALTORS® is dedicated to the preservation of private property rights and to the promotion and protection of the business interests of our REALTOR® members.

Posted by Lizzie - Street performers bring unusual acts to San Diego’s waterfront April 18-19

SAN DIEGO – Ordinary beware of Seaport Village’s Spring Busker Festival—a celebration of street performers—Saturday, April 18 and Sunday, April 19, from 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. Downtown’s Seaport Village will come alive with the extraordinary and bizarre when one-of-a-kind performers take to the cobblestone streets for a weekend of outdoor family amusement. In a grueling battle of entertainment and awe, the 3rd annual festival will culminate with the top-voted acts earning 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes.

“Busker festivals are famous worldwide for unusual street-side performers, and Seaport Village’s event is quickly becoming Southern California’s signature event,” said Seaport Village General Manager Terry Hall. “Our last two Busker Festivals were highly successful and this year we’ve recruited some of the country’s most seasoned buskers to put on an astonishing weekend of entertainment under the sun.”

Seaport’s Spring Busker Festival will showcase a variety of street performers rivaling last year’s Didjeridoo player, jugglers, sword swallower, comedic stuntmen and more.

Shops, restaurants and eateries will add to Seaport’s Spring Busker Festival’s flair with special sales. The event runs April 18 and 19, 2009, from 12 p.m. - 5 p.m. All shops, restaurants and eateries will be open for shopping and dining from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. While the Spring Busker Festival is free of charge, all buskers will be accepting tips.

Seaport Village is located downtown at West Harbor Drive and Pacific Highway, adjacent to Embarcadero Park North. Visitors receive two hours of free validated parking with any purchase. For more information go to www.seaportvillage.com or call 619-235-4014.

Posted by Jamie - Fat-derived stem cells aid in horse’s return to record-setting levels

SAN DIEGO, Calif. – December 8, 2008 – Little Bit of Baja, a Quarter Horse who recovered from an arthritic knee injury with the help of its own fat-derived stem cells, is one of the favorites heading into Los Alamitos’ Champion of Champions race on Saturday, Dec. 13.

Following knee surgery in late 2007, surgeon Dr. Mark Martinelli used Vet-Stem, the sole licensed company in fat stem cell veterinary regenerative medicine, to isolate stem and regenerative cells from the horse’s own fat for a therapeutic injection to the injured joint. After returning to racing in September, Little Bit of Baja set a record in November’s 2008 Z. Wayne Griffin Directors Trial, earning a spot in the nation’s most prestigious race for older Quarter Horses.

Vet-Stem regenerative cell therapy is simple. Veterinarians remove a small sample of fat from the horse and send it to Vet-Stem. Laboratory technicians isolate regenerative stem cells that already exist in the fat, the high number of stem cells available eliminates the need to grow in culture or manipulate the cells. The cells are then returned to the authorized veterinarian for treatment of the injured animal within 48 hours.

Since 2002 Vet-Stem authorized veterinarians have treated more than 3,000 horses for tendon and ligament injuries and arthritic joints. Since launching for dogs in early 2008, Vet-Stem credentialed veterinarians have already treated nearly 1,000 canines.

In the case of Vet-Stem’s work with equines, the procedure has seen a return to prior level of performance rate of 57 percent, 77 percent and 76 percent respectively in joint, tendon, or ligament injuries. Many horses, such as 2006 U.S. Open polo champion Rio and Senior Western Pleasure 2007 World Champion Zip Mes Asset, have overcome potentially career-ending injuries to return to competition at their prior level.

About Vet-Stem, Inc.

Vet-Stem, Inc. was formed in 2002 to bring regenerative medicine to the veterinary profession. In January of 2004, Vet-Stem introduced the first veterinary stem cell service in the United States. The privately held company is working to develop therapies in veterinary medicine that apply regenerative technologies while utilizing the natural healing properties inherent in all animals.

For more information log on to www.vet-stem.com or call 888-387-8361. Interested media should contact Jamie Ortiz, Bailey Gardiner, at 619-295-8232 x 106.

Posted by Maya

San Diego, CA - Setai San Diego, San Diego's newest and most exclusive luxury hotel, is offering an impressive Preview Package in celebration of its December 15 opening. For just $279, guests can enjoy the best of the urban retreat with the Preview Package, which includes a one night stay in a sleek CitySide guestroom, a $100 daily spa credit at the exquisite SPA at SETAI SAN DIEGO, European breakfast for two, a welcome amenity and complimentary valet parking. The package is available for stays through February 28, excluding February 13 – 16.

Setai San Diego is a 184-room premier luxury hotel located in downtown San Diego's financial district. The property features world-class amenities including rooms with 180-degree views of city, ocean and bay, Luxe Suites with full Italian kitchens and balconies, a sleep concierge and in-room captain service. The hotel also offers a 5,500 square-foot spa, 7,000 square foot pool deck and pool, 20,000 square feet of event and meeting space, the largest penthouse on the West Coast, a screening room and a state-of-the-art recording studio. For more information, please visit www.setaisandiego.com.

To book the Preview Package, please visit www.setaisandiego.com or call (619) 515-3000.

Posted by Jamie - More than 1,000 dogs already benefiting from Vet-Stem's therapy

SAN DIEGO, Calif. – December 1, 2008 –Vet-Stem, the San Diego-based company using fat-derived stem cell therapy in veterinary medicine, recently completed its second study with positive findings. The multi-center clinical trial, published in Veterinary Therapeutics Fall 2008, revealed that dogs treated with stem cell therapy showed statistically significant improvement in lameness, pain and range of motion for elbow injuries.

"This study reinforces the importance of our work--we are making tomorrow's medicine a reality today," says Vet-Stem CEO Robert Harman. "We have seen over a thousand dogs benefit from the Vet-Stem regenerative cell therapy, and we are elated the results of this scientific study confirm such success."

Vet-Stem regenerative cell therapy has been used on horses since 2002 and launched for dogs in early 2008. Since then, more than a thousand veterinarians have completed the online credentialing course allowing them to use the stem cell therapy on more than 1,000 dogs across the nation.

"We've seen stem cell therapy save dogs whose only other option was euthanasia," said Dr. Harman. "We are helping patients forgo surgery and pharmaceuticals for problems like arthritis and joint and tendon injuries."

The procedure is simple. Veterinarians remove a small sample of fat from the dog and send it to Vet-Stem. Laboratory technicians isolate regenerative stem cells that already exist in the fat, the high number of stem cells available eliminates the need to grow in culture or manipulate the cells. The cells are then returned to the authorized veterinarian for treatment of the injured animal within 48 hours.

The results from this study expand on one published in 2007, which explored the effectiveness of Vet-Stem's therapy for hip related osteoarthritis. The outcome showed that stem cells do improve healing in injured or arthritic dogs' hips. The findings stated that in a blinded, placebo controlled, clinical trial 80 percent of dogs improved significantly after being treated by stem cell therapy.

The most recent study is only the beginning for the future of fat-derived stem cell therapy. Vet-Stem is currently conducting studies for the use of stem cells for internal medicine conditions as well.

About Vet-Stem, Inc.

Vet-Stem, Inc. was formed in 2002 to bring regenerative medicine to the veterinary profession. In January of 2004, Vet-Stem introduced the first veterinary stem cell service in the United States. The privately held company is working to develop therapies in veterinary medicine that apply regenerative technologies while utilizing the natural healing properties inherent in all animals.

For more information log on to www.vet-stem.com or call 888-387-8361. Interested media should contact Jamie Ortiz, Bailey Gardiner, at 619-295-8232 x 106.

For more information on Bailey Gardiner, click here.

Posted by Jamie

SAN DIEGO, Calif. – November 24, 2008 – Bailey Gardiner, a creative agency, this week announced three new brands to its roster. Growing its list of national clients, the company is now public relations agency of record for ista North America, a multi-housing submetering utility management company. And adding to its out-of-market advertising portfolio, BG Creative also handles marketing for Pierce Education Properties and Golden Gate Fields.

Helping multifamily housing companies meter, bill and manage energy, water and ancillary costs, ista North America hired Bailey Gardiner to handle industry and consumer public relations to strengthen its international reputation within the United States.

Relying on Bailey Gardiner's experience marketing to young consumers, Pierce Education Properties, a San Diego-based company exclusively dedicated to real estate development and investments, hired Bailey Gardiner to create an advertising campaign aimed at the Millennia and GenY demographics aged 18-24. The multipronged campaign will drive traffic for the company's off-campus housing facilities at Michigan State and Central Michigan universities.

BG Creative also secured Golden Gate Fields, a Thoroughbred horseracing facility located in Berkeley, Calif. Bailey Gardiner's experience in the category with clients such as TVG and the Del Mar Racetrack will help guide the creation of advertising campaigns to help Golden Gate Fields strengthen its brand within the region and increase attendance at its track.

For more information on Bailey Gardiner, click here.

Posted by Maya

San Diego, Calif. – This December 31, Pala Casino Spa & Resort is offering a variety of entertainment and dining options to help guests ring in the New Year. For a ticket price of $15, partygoers can countdown to midnight at the party in the Grand Cabaret, with musical guest Tyghtship. Playing tunes that mix Old School with New School R & B and Hip Hop, Tyghtship entertains guests with an infectious visual performance. Doors open at 8 PM and the party begins at 9 PM.

Guests interested in celebrating the New Year at Pala can also choose from three New Year's food packages being offered:

The Oak Room Package: This VIP package, which is $109 per person, includes a special menu dinner at world-class Oak Room Steak & Seafood Restaurant. The package also includes a choice between the New Year's Eve party in the Grand Cabaret or the Events Center. Reservations are necessary and can be made at 760-510-4540.

Mama's Cucina Italiana Package: Guests who choose the Mama's package get to enjoy dinner at the popular Mama's Cucina Italiana, which will also be serving a special menu from Chef Luciano Cibelli to celebrate the New Year. This package is $59 per person. Reservations are necessary and can be made at 760-510-4541.

The Terrace Buffet Steak & Seafood Special: For $29 per person, the Terrace Buffet offers great food at a great value and is a perfect pre-party dinner option. Diners choose from 140 different hot and cold food items are prepared freshly onsite.

Tickets available, with no service charge, at the Pala Privileges Booth. Call 1-877-WIN-PALA for more information.

Pala is located in Northern San Diego County; from San Diego/Riverside take I-15 to Highway 76, east five miles; from Los Angeles and Orange County take I-5 to Highway 76, east 23 miles. Pala is 15 miles north of Escondido, 12 miles south of Temecula.

ABOUT PALA CASINO SPA & RESORT

Pala Casino Spa & Resort is located in northern San Diego County 15 miles north of Escondido, 12 miles south of Temecula and just five miles east of I-15 on Highway 76. The AAA 4-diamond Pala Casino Spa & Resort offers 507 luxury rooms, including 82 suites. The casino has over 2,000 state-of-the-art slot and video machines, 87 Vegas-style table games, eight restaurants and four entertainment venues. For more information about Pala Casino Spa & Resort visit http://www.palacasino.com

Posted by Maya

Pala, Calif - Pala Casino Spa & Resort has earned the coveted AAA Four Diamond distinction for 2009. With only 4 percent of all hotels inspected receiving this accolade, Pala is honored to be included for the fifth year in a row. The award signifies Pala as an upscale and progressive property with a high standard for customer service.

To celebrate the prestigious award, Pala is introducing two exclusive new offers to inspire newcomers to visit the property. For spa enthusiasts, from January – June 2009, the Pala Spa will be giving away a free gift set with the purchase of any 80-minute spa or salon treatment. With their unique offerings such as the Thai-inspired Lavender Bliss and the Ionithermie Body Detox, guests will not only receive a world-class treatment, but will be able to take home a gift set with some of the spa's top products. To receive this special deal guests can call 760.510.2189 and mention code SPA09 at time of booking. Offer available while supplies last.

In conjunction with the spa offer, Pala is also announcing a new hotel package that gives guests a taste of some of the award-winning amenities. This package, running from January-June of 2009, features a special rate of $109 per night on Mondays through Thursdays. The special rate also includes a special gift at check-in and a free coffee or ice cream at Pala's new café, Coffee Amoré. Hotel guests can also enjoy the pool with 12 cabanas, a dual temperature Jacuzzi, dine at one of the property's 8 restaurants, gamble in the Las Vegas style casino, relax at the Pala Spa or attend one of the many free entertainment options.

To receive the special hotel offer guests can call 1-877-725-2766 and mention code PRHOT09 when booking their reservation.

ABOUT PALA CASINO SPA & RESORT

Pala Casino Spa & Resort is located in northern San Diego County 15 miles north of Escondido, 12 miles south of Temecula and just five miles east of I-15 on Highway 76. The AAA 4-diamond Pala Casino Spa & Resort offers 507 luxury rooms, including 82 suites. The casino has over 2,000 state-of-the-art slot and video machines, 87 Vegas-style table games, eight restaurants and four entertainment venues. For more information about Pala Casino Spa & Resort visit http://www.palacasino.com

Posted by Maya

Pala, Calif. – Pala Casino Spa & Resort will be adding popular stand up comedian Wanda Sykes to the winter entertainment line-up. Wanda Sykes has been called "one of the funniest stand up comics" by her peers and ranks among Entertainment Weekly's 25 Funniest People in America.

Wanda Sykes' wildly successful HBO comedy special, WANDA SYKES: SICK & TIRED, debuted in October 2006 and was nominated for a 2007 Primetime Emmy for "Outstanding Variety, Music or Comedy Special." She was also recently seen in the feature films "Evan Almighty," with Steve Carell and "Monster-In-Law" starring opposite Jennifer Lopez and Jane Fonda, Wanda can currently be seen co-starring with Julia Louis Dreyfus in the CBS comedy, "The New Adventures of Old Christine," Wednesday nights at 8:00 pm.

Tickets available at all Ticketmaster locations, on-line at Ticketmaster.com or charge by phone at 619-220-TIXS (San Diego County), 714-703-2525 (Orange County) or 213-480-3232 (Los Angeles County).

Tickets also available, with no service charge, at the Pala Privileges Booth. Call 1-877-WIN-PALA for more information. Tickets start at $48.00.

Pala is located in Northern San Diego County; from San Diego/Riverside take I-15 to Highway 76, east five miles; from Los Angeles and Orange County take I-5 to Highway 76, east 23 miles. Pala is 15 miles north of Escondido, 12 miles south of Temecula.

Address: 11154 Highway 76, Pala, CA 92059
Telephone: 1-877-WIN-PALA (877-946-7252)
Web site: http://www.palacasino.com

About Pala Casino Spa & Resort
Pala Casino Spa & Resort includes a Las Vegas-style casino with 2,000 slot machines and 87 table games, a 507-room hotel; a 10,000-square-foot, full-service spa and salon that features 14 treatment rooms; a state-of-the-art fitness center; swimming pool with 12 private poolside cabanas; and dual-temperature outdoor Jacuzzi. Pala also offers eight restaurants and 40,000-square-feet of meeting and convention space. Pala Casino Spa & Resort is a AAA Four-Diamond Award winner.

Posted by Maya

Pala, California- Southern California's AAA Four Diamond Pala Casino Spa & Resort and the Spa-travel website, Spas of America, are giving away a Southern California Dream Spa Prize Package. The contest invites spa enthusiasts to enter for a chance to win three night's accommodation, a Pala Spa couple's package and dinner for two. The Grand Prize package is valued at over $1,000.00. Secondary prizes in the form of dinner and spa packages are also offered.

The Pala Spa is located one hour north of San Diego, against the tranquil backdrop of the Palomar Mountains. Pala Spa offers 14 treatment rooms including two Couples Suites, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a full-service salon, and a retail boutique. The Pala Spa's signature treatment is the Lavender Bliss Treatment. This Thai-inspired experience begins with an awakening toning body scrub, followed by a relaxing lavender bath. Lastly, guests enjoy a warm bolus massage using marine salt crystals and French lavender.

Entering is free and easy. Enter online at http://www.spasofamerica.com/contests/california-dream-spa.

SPAS OF AMERICA

Spas of America is a global online media company focused on healthy living and travel. The company's website showcases over 600 of the best day, resort, hotel and destination spas in North & South America to spa travelers around the world. http://www.spasofamerica.com

PALA CASINO SPA & RESORT

Pala Casino, Spa & Resort is located in northern San Diego County 15 miles north of Escondido, 12 miles south of Temecula and just five miles east of I-15 on Highway 76. The AAA 4-diamond Pala Casino, Spa & Resort offers 507 luxury rooms, including 82 suites. The casino has 2,250 state-of-the-art slot machines and videos, 87 Vegas-style table games, eight restaurants and four entertainment venues. For more information about Pala Casino, Spa & Resort visit http://www.palacasino.com

Posted by Lizzie

SAN DIEGO, Calif. – November 6, 2008 – The San Diego Association of REALTORS® (SDAR) and the Consejo Estatal de Profesionales Inmobiliarios de Baja California (CEPIBC) signed a Bi-regional Cooperation Agreement last week to help increase professionalism and standardize practices on both sides of the border.

SDAR and CEPIBC recognize there are differences in how real estate is transacted on both sides of the border and language and cultural barriers can sometimes complicate the process. As a result, a mutual agreement was signed on October 30, 2008 in the company of the Governor of Baja, Jose Guadalupe Osuna Millan, and representatives from both Real Estate organizations. The agreement verbalizes the two parties' intentions to work together to benefit consumers and both associations' members greatly. The terms of the agreement are as follows:

• Friendship – The associations will work as friends.
• Education – The associations will offer classes focusing in the financial, legal and cultural differences for those conducting a Real Estate transaction in either country.
• Professionalism - The associations will encourage their Code of Ethics to rule business interactions between their members.
• Business - The associations will promote business and tourism relationships among their members, supporting the right of private property ownership.
• Cooperation - In case of an emergent need, help may be provided.

"We are honored to be working with our fellow real estate professionals in Northern Baja and see this as the beginning step of a long and mutually beneficial relationship," said SDAR President Lori Staehling. "We will give our full efforts to helping CEPIBC members understand how real estate is conducted in California, potentially bettering the purchase process for Americans in Baja."

Posted by Carrie Shields

San Diego, CA – Setai San Diego, the new 184-room premier luxury hotel located in downtown San Diego's financial district, will open its doors - specifically two custom-made 9,000-pound bronze pivot doors - in early December. Part of the Preferred Hotel Group, Setai San Diego intends to bring the beauty, sophistication and experience of the world's most luxurious contemporary hotels to downtown San Diego.

Designed by the Rockwell Group to be artful in every way, Setai San Diego is a unique extra-sensory experience in art and function, with hundreds of touch points within the new 23-story steel and glass structure. The property will feature luxury amenities such as a world-class spa, gourmet restaurant, exclusive Grand Penthouse, rooftop pool and deck, recording studio, private screening room, and 20,000 square feet of event and meeting space.

"Setai San Diego is the perfect destination for an urban retreat, and we are delighted to be able to offer discerning travelers and luxury-seekers the highest standards in service, design, and amenities," said General Manager Craig Waterman.

Event Details:

In a powerful unity of art and function, Setai San Diego's lobby displays objects and textures that will excite the senses. After entering through one of the massive bronze and exotic wood pivot doors, guests are greeted by black ebony columns adorned with turquoise patina beads, teardrop crystals, Nepali carpets, silver leaf covered walls and shagreen upholstery. Four-dimensional art decorates the lobby in addition to a multi-tier silk chandelier that shimmers in columns of light. When guests ascend a floating staircase to the restaurant they will see artist Ken Gangbar's ceramic "Finn Wave" wall installation. The artwork encompasses hundreds of ceramic "fins" and takes up the entire wall in a fluid, uplifting wave-like motion.

The hotel's 184 rooms, including 37 suites and three penthouse suites, incorporate sophisticated luxury, using elements such as fine custom made linens, leather furniture, rich drapery, Jerusalem bone limestone finishes in the bathrooms, Brazilian walnut flooring, and Sapelli woods. Seventeen (17) one-bedroom suites feature generously sized balconies, outfitted with chaise lounges and providing expansive city views. Twenty (20) larger Luxe Suites come equipped with full Italian kitchens, Miele and Sub Zero appliances, full living rooms, balconies, private bedrooms and baths. South-facing suites feature expansive balconies with floor-to-ceiling NanaWall windows, opening to give guests literally an open wall of stunning city, ocean and bay views.

For the jet-setter seeking the height of luxury, Setai San Diego offers three penthouse suites, including a Grand Penthouse, the most exclusive and largest on the West Coast. In addition to numerous custom made features, the 8,000 square-foot Grand Penthouse consists of three bedrooms and three full baths, a full Italian kitchen, dining room, full bar, six flat screen TVs, and a rooftop patio terrace complete with private sundeck, Jacuzzi soaking tub, chaise-lounge beds, water features, a private massage area, and amazing 360 degree views.

Suite & Tender Bar, Lounge and Restaurant at the Setai San Diego is designed to be the scene and dining destination for locals and travelers alike. Featuring the cuisine of James Beard Award-winning Chef Christopher Lee, Suite &Tender will be a softer, more sophisticated take on the typical steakhouse. Based on a gastro-tourism concept where diners have the chance to create an experience that is completely their own, Suite & Tender will focus on choices and eschew restrictive restaurant standards and rules.

The attention to detail and atmosphere transcends throughout the décor of the restaurant and bar. Designed by renowned interior designer Dodd Mitchell, the interiors incorporate Mitchell's signature style; a blending of the everyday with innovative materials to create seductive and unforgettable spaces.

For guests looking to relax and indulge, SPA at SETAI SAN DIEGO, is an urban oasis with nine personal treatment rooms featuring private steam showers, including two specialty suites (double suites) and private VIP lounge. Arriving at SPA at SETAI SAN DIEGO is a personalized experience, where guests are transported into a world of blended traditions and harmony. SPA at SETAI SAN DIEGO will feature design and treatment offerings based on the cultural and aesthetic influences of Southeast Asia, India, Northern Africa and Japan, including the first Moroccan Rasul spa experience in the United States. More than a treatment, Rasul is an Arabic cleansing ritual that exfoliates the skin and draws out impurities from the body. SPA at SETAI SAN DIEGO will offer an entirely organic full-bar and dining menu, highlighting the spa's special "Spatinis" and Blooming Tea Bar, where guests can sip on their choice of exotic and specialty teas.

Setai San Diego guests can also experience the hotel's 7,000 square foot pool deck. A large central teak bar, adjacent to the overflowing-edge pool, is surrounded by eight private cabanas, oversized beds and European style chaise lounges. The pool deck, bounded by delicate stone work, also offers a large covered VIP area with an expansive sake and wine bar and intimate lounge seating.

Lastly, Setai San Diego also features 20,000 square feet of high-end meeting room and event space, with such unique touches as a 32-seat private screening room and a professional recording studio. Smaller breakout rooms are flooded with natural light and views of Fifth Avenue, while the two-story Grand Ballroom – with floor to ceiling windows overlooking Sixth Avenue – offers the latest in technology, including ceiling projection, an audiofile sound system, and a suspension lift system capable of holding items of serious weight (signage, acrobats, displays, etc.). The entire space is sheathed in exotic woods, fabrics and textures, complementing the high-touch sensory aesthetic found throughout the hotel.

Located in the center of the financial district in downtown San Diego, Setai San Diego overlooks the historic Gaslamp Quarter, which offers dozens of restaurant, shopping and entertainment options, and is a short walk from both the San Diego Convention Center and Petco Park. Just minutes to San Diego's most popular attractions, including Symphony Hall, historic Balboa Theater, Sea World, Balboa Park, Old Town and the San Diego Zoo, Setai San Diego is also conveniently located a short drive away from San Diego's famous beaches.

Introductory rates start at $300 a night available now through March. For further information or to make a reservation, please visit www.setaisandiego.com or call 619.515.3000.

Posted by Maya Ben-Yehuda

San Diego, Calif. – Starting Friday, November 7, Pala Casino Spa & Resort will bring back the uber-popular "RockStar Live! Karaoke" for three more nights of entertainment. On November 7, 14 and 21, Pala guests will get the chance to feel like a true star, belting out favorite tunes with their very own back-up band, "RockStar Live!"

The "RockStar Live!" experience takes karaoke to a whole new level as performers take the stage to sing one of over 125-mega hits with help from a professional rock and roll band and a cheering crowd of fans.

Event Details:

• Pala "RockStar Live!" Karaoke
• November 7, 14, and 21
• Show begins at 9 pm.
• Shows are FREE and located in The Grand Cabaret

Pala Casino has free entertainment each Friday and Saturday at the Grand Cabaret with the best dance and rock tribute bands from Southern California and beyond. For more information visit www.palacasino.com.

Pala is located in Northern San Diego County; from San Diego/Riverside take I-15 to Highway 76, east five miles; from Los Angeles and Orange County take I-5 to Highway 76, east 23 miles. Pala is 15 miles north of Escondido, 12 miles south of Temecula.

About Pala Casino Spa & Resort Pala Casino Spa & Resort includes a Las Vegas-style casino with 2,300 slot machines and 87 table games, a 507-room, 10-story luxury hotel tower; a 10,000-square-foot, full-service spa and salon that features 14 treatment rooms; a state-of-the-art fitness center; an Olympic size pool with 12 private poolside cabanas; and dual-temperature outdoor Jacuzzis. Pala also offers eight restaurants and 30,000-square-feet of meeting and convention space. Pala Casino Spa & Resort is a AAA Four-Diamond winner.

Posted by Jamie

SAN DIEGO, Calif. – October 20, 2008 – Creative agency Bailey Gardiner has hired Jennifer Williams as an account director.

At the San Diego-based marketing agency, Williams will manage all advertising clients working with the senior team on strategy and creative as well as overseeing the account management staff. She will service clients such as beautyencounter.com, Stanford Hotels Corporation, Del Mar Plaza, Seaport Village and Setai San Diego, among others.

"Jennifer's background in managing national and international accounts is integral in servicing our current clients," said Bailey Gardiner Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Bailey. "And her strategic leadership will help our integrated marketing agency continue to win national brands."

Williams brings international brand experience with her work on Recall, a global leader in information management, and as the manager of her own agency, The Personette Group, in Atlanta.

Previously she directed clients such as Lowe's Home Improvement and Louisiana Pacific Corporation's WeatherBest Composite Decking during her tenure at Summit Marketing and Kleber & Associates Marketing and Communications.

For more information on Bailey Gardiner, click here

Posted by Jamie - Contemporary lineup features performance and visual artists from around the world

SAN DIEGO – SUSHI, A Center for the Urban Arts (www.sushiart.org), opens its new space in downtown San Diego's East Village with a powerful schedule of performance and visual arts premieres beginning this November. A multi-disciplinary presenting organization since 1980, SUSHI brings to San Diego a "who's who" calendar of artists showcasing alternative voices in contemporary arts.

With the exception of special grand opening events, admission to Sushi is Pay What You Can (PWYC), a pricing structure underwritten by the Irvine Foundation and designed to welcome art enthusiasts at all levels with a suggested minimum donation of $15. The new space is located at 390 Eleventh Ave. at J St. in downtown San Diego and features both a performance area as well as a dedicated visual arts space.

Grand opening events and the winter schedule include:

• Jordan Fuchs' Thicket, a San Diego premiere

  A special pre-opening event Saturday, Nov. 8, at 8 p.m., $50
  Performed in the round, Thicket features a sonic environment in which the audience, wearing
  headphones, watches dancers and becomes part of the movement itself. It's about the entanglements of human interactions that come from a glance, an embrace, a memory. Seating is very limited.

  Performers: Toby Billowitz, Megan Boyd, Jordan Fuchs and Storme Sundberg.

  Original soundscore: Andy Russ.

• Beyond Theory, a U.S. premiere

  A special grand opening event with reception Saturday, Nov. 22 from 7 – 10 p.m. $20
  Exhibition runs Nov. 22 –Dec. 20 from noon to 5 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. All viewings are free.
  An exhibition of paintings, video, installation works and performances by eight visiting Serbian artists. The project reflects the cultural-political shift that occurred in Serbia at the beginning of the 21st century. It is supported in part by grants from the Trust for Mutual Understanding and CECArtsLink.

  Artists: Art Fun Club, Bojan Đorđev, Siniša Ilić, Nenad Kostić, Tanja Marković, Vladimir Nikolić and Jelena Radović.

  Curator: Maja Ćirić.

• La Pocha Nostra's The New Barbarian Collection Winter 2008, a U.S. premiere

  A formal grand opening event on Saturday, Dec. 6, at 7 p.m., $100
  Having previously performed in London and Toronto, La Pocha brings San Diego its U.S. premiere of The New Barbarians. Appropriating the format of an X-treme fashion show, The New Barbarian Collection explores the bizarre relationship between the post-9/11 culture of xenophobia and the rampant fetishization of otherness by global pop culture. The audience will engage with a variety of fashion-inspired stylized personas stemming from problematic media representations. It's the work of MacArthur "Genius Grant" recipient Guillermo Gómez-Peña, who personally selected SUSHI as the spot for this American premier.

  Performers: Guillermo Gómez-Peña, Violeta Luna, Michele Ceballos, Rene Garcia and a troupe of San Diego artists who took part in an intensive performance workshop sponsored by SUSHI.

• little known dance theatre's Incidental Fear of Numbers, a world premiere

  Thursday, Jan. 15 – Saturday, Jan. 17, at 8 p.m. and
  Sunday, Jan. 18 at 7 p.m.
  $PWYC
  In Residence/Rehearsals Open to the public:
  Thursday – Saturday, Dec. 18 – 20, noon – 5 p.m.
  Thursday – Saturday, Jan. 8 – 10, noon – 5 p.m.

  This evening length performance, directed by Leslie Seiters, is collaboration between dancers of San Diego's Little Known Dance Theatre and Tijuana-based Lux Boreal.  Incidental Fear of Numbers considers the exchange between audience and performer, precision and abandon, density and spaciousness with movement, sound, time, light and the body's relation to the materials that surround and compose us.

  Performers: Justin Morrison, Dina Academia, Jess Humphry, Carmen Rojo, Joe Alter, and Lux Boreal, Angel Arambula, Henry Torrez, Briseida Lopez, Azalea Lopez, David Mariano, Raul Navarro, Victoria Reyes

  Choregrapher: Leslie Seiters

• Karen Finley's IMPULSE to SUCK, a west coast premiere

  Thursday, Jan. 29 – Saturday, Jan. 31, at 8 p.m., $PWYC
  Looking at the sexual psychodrama of our political leaders, this work is inspired by New York Governor Elliot Spitzer's 2008 confession and apology for patronizing prostitutes. Finley's latest spoken word text includes an examination of Spitzer's confession, his underlying compulsion, the role played by his wife Silda, as well as imagining the sexual encounter and the married couple's therapy sessions. Finley sees the agony of the son's need for approval from the father and the ancient wrestling of the feminine archetypes of mother and whore. A not-to-be-missed event performed by one of the icons of the avant-garde arts movement.

• Tere O'Connor Dance's Rammed Earth, a San Diego premiere

  Friday, Feb. 20 and Saturday, Feb. 21, at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.
  Thursday, Feb. 19 and Sunday, Feb. 22, at 8 p.m.
  $PWYC
  Inspired by contemporary architecture where concepts of adaptability and human interaction drive design, O'Connor has created a work that adapts to each new setting in which it is performed. The work challenges the perceived rigidity of built space, juxtaposing it with the fluidity of the human form. Audience members are incorporated into the expanding and contracting liquid space of the work as they are escorted into different viewing positions throughout the performance.

  Performers: Hilary Clark, Heather Olson, Matthew Rogers, Christopher Williams

  Original soundscore: James Baker

• Teresa Gunn's Juanita Goes to Rehab, a world premiere

  Thursday, Feb. 26 – Saturday, Feb 28, at 8 p.m., Sunday, March 1 at 7 p.m. $PWYC
  Using songs, spoken word, and storytelling, Juanita Goes to Rehab starts with the coach catching Juanita smoking pot and kicking her off the team. Then she starts hanging out with the stoners, and it's all downhill from there…she should have joined the Navy. This is Teresa Gunn's first public presentation of work from the The Trailer Park Queen series, which tells the tales of Juanita LaRue, a biker chick from Imperial Beach. There are six shows in the series, several of which have been presented informally.

An integral part of the West Coast cultural landscape, SUSHI earns national acclaim for the San Diego arts community and provides a forum for artists to reflect the rich diversity of our multifaceted ethnic, cultural, sexual, and personal backgrounds. Its new home is located at 390 Eleventh Ave. at J St. in downtown San Diego. For more information on the shows and tickets, visit www.sushiart.org or call 619. 235. 8466.

Posted by Jamie - SDAR Ambassador's Foundation recognizes everyday heroes with fall celebration

SAN DIEGO, Calif. – October 17, 2008 – The air is getting cool but the competition is heating up for the San Diego Association of REALTORS® (SDAR) 2nd Annual Chili Cook-Off Wednesday, October 29, 2008.  Proceeds from the event will benefit the SDAR Ambassadors Foundation Everyday Heroes program to help San Diego police officers buy homes in the neighborhoods they protect.

The fiery cook-off isn't the only boot-stompin' fun.  Line dancing lessons will heat up the evening and raffle prizes including Westfield Shopping Centers and Home Depot gift certificates will be awarded.  The competition will face off at SDAR, 4849 Ronson Ct., San Diego, CA 92111 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

To enter your most mouth-watering creation as a team or individual, register at www.sdar.com or call (858) 715-8041.  Chili entry and attendance fee is only $5. 

The San Diego Association of REALTORS® formed the SDAR Ambassadors Foundation, a 501(c)(3) foundation, to assist San Diego Police Department officers in becoming homeowners near the communities they protect and serve.  With financial and education assistance from the Everyday Heroes program, four San Diego Police Department officers have purchased their first homes in San Diego in 2008.

Posted by Jamie - SDAR Ambassadors Foundation recognizes everyday heroes

SAN DIEGO, Calif. – October 17, 2008 – Those with a fitness-focus and a concern for their community will put cardio to cause for a 5K walk to help San Diego police officers buy homes in the neighborhoods they protect.

The November 15, 2008 SDAR Ambassador's Foundation 5K Walk to benefit the Everyday Heroes program will begin at the new NTC Park at Liberty Station in Point Loma at 8 a.m.  Spokesperson, Joe Lizura of KUSI will join San Diego police officers, REALTORs and supporters for a brisk morning walk to grow awareness for our community's heroes and help them achieve the dream of homeownership. 

Teams and individuals can sign up in advance for $25 per person and make monetary donations at http://www.ambassadorsfoundation.org or by calling 619-298-7400. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

The San Diego Association of REALTORS® formed the SDAR Ambassadors Foundation, a 501(c)(3) foundation, to assist San Diego Police Department officers in becoming homeowners near the communities they protect and serve.  With financial and education assistance from the Everyday Heroes program, four San Diego Police Department officers have purchased their first homes in San Diego in 2008.

Posted by Lizzie - Moonlight music, dancing, shopping and dining deals complement costume contest

DEL MAR, Calif. – October 20, 2008 – Patrons are invited to don their finest costumes and revel in the festivities of Halloween at Del Mar Plaza.  All three levels of the Plaza will entertain a Halloween Costume Party with refreshments, a prize for the best costume and dancing under the moonlight on the public deck.

The Oct. 31-festivities will be held from 7 p.m. – 11 p.m.  Each open storefront will provide a complimentary light hors d'oeuvre or beverage. Restaurants will offer a special Halloween meal or deal and music by smooth jazz saxophonist Keith Jacobson will fill the plaza decks. Costume contestants will make appearances store-to-store to be judged by storeowners for the chance to win $1,000 in gift cards from Del Mar Plaza.

Del Mar Plaza is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Underground garage parking is available with entrances from Camino Del Mar and 15th St. For more information visit www.delmarplaza.com.

Posted by Jamie

SAN DIEGO, Calif. – October 13, 2008 - Attached are 2008 September Multiple Listing Service (MLS) statistics.

Sold listings for attached and detached units increased slightly over the last month with attached unit sales up 6.4 percent and detached up 7.9 percent. Attached sold listings are up 84 percent from September 2007 and detached sold listings are up 97 percent, with total sales up almost double what they were at the same time last year. Additionally, year-to-date sales for 2008 have exceeded those reported in September 2007.

"We are pleased to see that despite the economic woes facing the nation, consumers are heeding the advice that this is a great time to buy. First-time home buyers have great opportunities in this market with the existing conforming loan limit and we hope that this trend continues. We are assured on a regular basis that money for residential home loans is readily available. We encourage potential home buyers to take advantage of the current FHA loan limit of $697,500 which is available for loans funded this year," says Lori Staehling, 2008 SDAR President. "Pricing is a matter of supply and demand. The level of activity we are seeing indicates that consumers are excited about the opportunities to invest in San Diego real estate. As this trend continues, prices should stabilize and go up."

Total Sold Listings Comparing September 2008 to August 2008

• Attached: 6.4 percent increase
  September 2008 = 927; August 2008 = 871
• Detached: 7.9 percent increase
  September 2008 = 1,724; August 2008 = 1,598

Total Sold Listings Comparing September 2008 to September 2007

• Attached: 84 percent increase
  September 2008 = 927; September 2007 = 503
• Detached: 97 percent increase
  September 2008 = 1,724; September 2007 = 874

Posted by Jamie

SAN DIEGO – Surfing for holiday fun will bring San Diegans to Seaport Village this December for warm-weather cheer. Visitors to the bayside shopping center will find outdoor amusement, unique holiday shopping and festive entertainment highlighted by Surfing Santa at Seaport Village on Sunday, Dec. 14.

"Seaport Village embraces the San Diego culture that we know and love— it is only fitting that we celebrate the holiday in board shorts and flip flops," said Seaport Village General Manager Terry Hall. "And nothing complements the city's temperate holidays better than gift giving from our locally owned shops."

Fun seekers this holiday season can expect:

• Surfing Santa at Seaport Village Sunday, Dec. 14, from noon – 4 p.m.: Kids and adults alike will greet San Diego's board short-wearing Santa as he arrives with a splash at Seaport Village around noon. Following a lively parade along the boardwalk, visitors can take photos surfing with Santa. The outdoor center will also have a kids' craft table, sand box art, live holiday tunes by the Jon Bowe Band, stilt walkers and more.
• Breakfast with Santa Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 20 and 21, from 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.: Santa makes an appearance (in his traditional garb) for Breakfast with Santa at the Harbor House Restaurant. The morning includes a full breakfast, pictures with Santa, face painting, balloon artists, kids show, and a gift bag for the kids. Cost is $25 per person. Call early, space is limited. (619) 235-4014 Ext. 3, Megan Capizzi.
• Edgewater Grill Helps KidsTalk, Dec. 31: Spend a beautiful evening dining along the waterfront and raising money to benefit underprivileged children in Kakamega, Kenya. Edgewater Grill at Seaport Village lends a hand to KidsTalk for a benefit including entertainment, food, and a silent auction featuring artwork from the children of the Kenyan village. Tickets can be purchased by calling Kathleen at 858-442-6601.
• Festival Fun All Month Long: Locals and their out-of-town guests can visit Seaport Village every day in December for a truly San Diego holiday experience complemented with free live musical entertainment, roaming entertainers, face painters and balloon artists. For those seeking unique gifts, Seaport's more than 50 local retailers offer an all-in-one-stop shopping venue. And the bayside location is the perfect place to make a day out of the Parade of Lights, Big Bay Balloon Parade and Cool Globes (that will be on display at Seaport during December).

Seaport Village is open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Stores will observe special holiday hours on Christmas Eve and Christmas day and will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Seaport Village is located at West Harbor Drive and Pacific Highway, adjacent to Embarcadero Park North. Visitors receive two hours of free validated parking with any purchase. For more information go to www.seaportvillage.com or call 619-235-4014.

Posted by Jamie

San Diego, CA – Setai San Diego, a premier 184-room luxury hotel located in downtown San Diego, has announced the executive team to oversee the opening and operations of the $150 million property. As previously announced, Craig Waterman will lead the team as general manager. Joining him is Director of Sales and Marketing Tohnia Miller, Hotel Manager Steve Gomez, Spa Director Michelle Frye and Executive Chef Anthony Calamari. Setai San Diego will open in late 2008 and includes a 5,500 square-foot spa, 20,000 square-feet of event space, a restaurant, pool deck and lounge, and the most exclusive three-story penthouse on the West Coast.

Waterman, a 22-year veteran of the luxury hotel industry, will oversee all daily operations for the entire property and ensure the needs of every guest are anticipated and met. Most recently, he served as general manager at the Four-Diamond Water Color Inn & Resort in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. Previously, he was general manager at the famous Miami Shore Club.

Collaborating closely with Waterman is Tohnia Miller, director of sales and marketing. In her role, Miller manages all sales and marketing initiatives and oversees group business reservations for the 20,000 square-feet of event space. Setai San Diego's meeting space includes the Grand Setai Ballroom, seven conference rooms, a private screening room and a recording studio. Miller served as general manager of the Mosiac Hotel in Beverly Hills and was responsible for overseeing all sales and marketing efforts. She brings over 20 years in the hospitality industry.

Steve Gomez, Setai San Diego's hotel manager will oversee the daily management of the hotel. He will work closely with hotel staff to ensure exceptional customer service. Prior to joining the Setai San Diego team, Gomez was assistant general manager at the prestigious Rancho Bernardo Inn. Before that he was director of room operations at the Pebble Beach Resort in Monterey, California.

As spa director, Michelle Frye worked hand in hand with the spa team to develop unique services for Spa Setai. Treatments have been created with Indian, Japanese and Southeast Asian influences. Frye has served eight years in the spa field and 17 years in the hospitality industry. Previously, she was spa director at the Pacific Waters Spa at the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa. Frye also served as assistant spa director at the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa.

With 12 years of culinary experience, Anthony Calamari brings his training in French and Californian cuisine to the hotel's food and beverage program. After earning his culinary degree at Tante Maria's Cooking School, Calamari traveled abroad to Europe where he cultivated his unique style and flavor. Most recently he was the Executive Chef at Cielo Restaurant at the Ventana Inn & Spa, Big Sur, California, which was included in Condé Nast Traveler's "Hot List" 2006.

Rounding out the executive team are Director of Finance Joe Harvey and Director of Human Resources Mike Nowland.

The Setai San Diego will offer ultra-chic, world-class amenities, sophisticated design and a luxurious destination for discerning travelers. For further information on Setai San Diego please visit www.setaisandiego.com or call 619.513.3000.

Posted by Jamie

Huntington Beach, CA - Beauty Encounter, the premier online source featuring all things beauty and specializing in hard-to-find niche products, today launched its new brand identity and newly designed website, BeautyEncounter.com.

The Orange County-based online company has embarked on an innovative chapter, creating a new logo, tagline – where beauty is @ – and website, which includes enhanced features, simple navigation, a company blog and a fresh design.

"This is an exciting time for Beauty Encounter and our loyal shoppers," said president and founder Jacquelyn Tran. "Celebrities shouldn't be the only ones with access to the world's best beauty products and industry experts. We want our customers to look and feel their best, and with the launch of BeautyEncounter.com, they will have easy access to the finest hard-to-find fragrances, cosmetics, skincare and hair care 24 hours a day, seven days a week."

Along with a unique look and feel, BeautyEncounter.com now offers shoppers a variety of new sections, including: a dedicated men's section; "At the Counter," where advice, tips and trends are shared by beauty experts in the industry; an updated blog called "Behind the Counter," where shoppers find a collaboration of product recommendations, hair care how-to's, fabulous fragrances and the hottest celebrity trends; and "Counter Culture," which will showcase top product picks from Beauty Encounter staff members.

Beauty Encounter's first guest expert, RC Stephens, makeup artist for NARS Cosmetics, reports on hot trends he observed behind the scenes at New York Fashion Week. He also gives useful cosmetics tips and his product picks for the fall season.

As part of Beauty Encounter's launch during October's breast cancer awareness month, the company has partnered with Breast Cancer Network of Strength. From October 1-31, Beauty Encounter will donate 1% of sales to this non-profit organization that offers peer support and programs to women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Beauty Encounter hopes to beat their $13,000 donation made to the organization in 2007.

Staying true to their expertise of offering niche and hard-to-find beauty products, BeautyEncounter.com offers shoppers a significant depth of product lines from over 1,000 brands including skincare, cosmetics, fragrances, hair care and beauty accessories. BeautyEncounter.com offers customers vast product selections, including international and specialty products. In addition, the site boasts tools for shoppers to make the most out of their purchase and a secure online experience.

Beauty Encounter is consistently given high ratings by consumer advocate websites for reliability, customer service and product selection. The online retailer was honored with the Platinum Award for BizRate's Research Circle of Excellence for the second time in 2008, in recognition of superior customer survey results. In 2007, Internet Retailer magazine ranked the online beauty source on its "Top 500 Guide," and Inc. magazine listed it on its "5,000 Fastest Growing Private Companies in America list.

Posted by Jamie Adult Fat-Derived Stem Cell Therapy Finalist in Life Sciences-Medical Product Category

SAN DIEGO – CONNECT, one of the nation's most successful regional economic
development programs for high technology and life science innovators, today announced the finalists for this year's Most Innovative New Product (MIP) Awards. Vet-Stem's fat-derived stem cell therapy for small animals is one of three finalists in the Life Sciences-Medical Product category.

The winners will be announced December 12th at the 21st Annual MIP Awards Luncheon, held at the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines, to an audience of over 800 of San Diego's top executives, entrepreneurs, service providers and academics.

The 2008 MIP Awards continue the tradition of showcasing San Diego-based companies with cutting-edge innovation in various arenas of technology. CONNECT added two new award categories this year to mirror new economic growth and achievements in the sectors: action and sport technologies and aerospace technology. MIP finalist products range from industry-changing action and sport equipment to life altering medical devices, each of which is an indicator of the thriving innovation in San Diego's booming technology industry.

"This year's products presented the highest level of competition this panel has seen," said Duane Roth, chief executive officer of CONNECT. "These finalists showcase the entrepreneurial spirit that this organization strives to discover and illustrates the innovation that has made San Diego the leading technology hub that it is today."

The MIP Award finalists were selected from approximately 100 entries representing a broad range of companies within eight categories. Three finalists are selected in each of the eight categories. The 2008 MIP Award finalists are:

Life Sciences – Medical Products
Ablation Frontiers for Catheter Ablation System
Cytori Therapeutics for Celution System
Vet-Stem for Vet-Stem Regenerative Cell Therapy for Small Animals

Action and Sport Technologies
American Wave Machines for SurfStream
Firewire Surfboards for Direct Drive
Zoot Sports for Ultra Race Shoe

Aerospace and Security Technologies
Avaak for Vue Personal Video Network
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems for Sky Warrior Block Zero Unmanned Aircraft System
Seacoast Science for SeaPort Mini GC

Clean Technology
Hadronex for Sewer Intelligence System
Networkcar for Networkfleet 3500
Reaction Design for Energico

Hardware and General Technology
Entropic Communications for Channel Stacking Switch ICs
Gunnar Optiks for Gunnar Digital Eyewear
Semtek Corporation for Cipher Module

Life Sciences - Diagnostics and Research Tools
Histogen for BioNuesis
Invitrogen Corporation for StemPro BG01v platform hESC Kit
Silicon Kinetics for SKi Pro

Software and IT
InSilicoMed for Continuity
PacketVideo for MediaFusion
Photometria for Taaz.com

Wireless Communications
Mushroom Networks for PortaBella
Pulse~LINK for CWave UWB Chipset
Staccato Communications for Ripcord

For more information about CONNECT's MIP Awards and to register to attend please visit: www.connect.org/programs/most-innovative-products-award/join/.

About CONNECT
CONNECT is a non-profit organization dedicated to creating and sustaining the growth of innovative technology and life science businesses in San Diego. Each year CONNECT delivers more than 300 programs and services that benefit more than 2,000 CEOs and companies. CONNECT is widely regarded as the nation's most successful regional program linking inventors and entrepreneurs with the resources they need for success. Its programs include: Springboard, Venture Round Table, Frontiers in Science and Technology, FrameWorks, CEO Strategy Forum and Connect with CONNECT; affiliate programs including The Center for Commercialization of Advanced Technology (CCAT), Tech Coast Angels (TCA), and MIT Enterprise Forum (MITEF); and its awards and recognition programs, Hall of Fame, and The Most Innovative Product (MIP) Awards. For further information, see www.connect.org.

Posted by Jamie Season ends on high note with solid numbers in tough economy

DEL MAR, Calif. — Del Mar closed its 69th race meeting Wednesday, Sept. 3, with the season-ending Closing Day Party in the Paddock celebrating a successful stand with betting and attendance numbers that rolled with the economic punches of a challenging market. A busy entertainment schedule, numerous celebrity visits and several big-value promotions helped the track hang tough during a difficult summer that has seen local attractions like the San Diego Zoo, Sea World and the San Diego Padres struggle to match their recent numbers.

Del Mar's total on-track attendance dipped slightly by 4.3 percent and its overall handle was down by 7 percent. Nonetheless, the final numbers-- 16,002 and $13,001,768 average per day -- were far and away the best recorded in California racing and once again among the national Thoroughbred leaders. Also notable, the figure for total handle registers as sixth best in track history.

"We've turned in so many positive numbers for so long here we've all but come to expect it," said Joe Harper, president and general manager, Del Mar Thoroughbred Club. "But in a lot of ways, given what's going on in Southern California and all across the country right now from the largest counting houses down to the smallest wallets, this was one of our best seasons ever. The fans came out, they saw some terrific racing and we kept on doing what we do best at Del Mar – we had a whole lot of fun."

The track founded in 1937 by Bing Crosby started out 2008 with a roar by drawing its largest Opening Day crowd in history -- 43,459. Subsequently, there were three other days on the ledger when more than 30,000 fans came through the gates (Gnarls Barkley concert on July 26; Bob Marley Roots Rock Reggae Festival with Ziggy Marley on Aug. 9; Pacific Classic Day on Aug. 24), giving a "big day buzz" to the racing community regularly throughout the summer.

Adding to its long-standing celebrity reputation, the track hosted visits from famous rock star Gwen Stefani and her husband singer Gavin Rossdale and their son Kingston, the entire cast of the Real Housewives of the O.C. and movie stars Bo Derek, Helen Mirren and Brooke Burke, among others.

Enticing other visitors from the Los Angeles and Orange County areas, Del Mar officials worked with Amtrak personnel and helped institute additional "racetrack trains" coming from the Los Angeles and Orange County areas which triggered a 10 percent increase in train ridership and use of the track's free double-decker busses that met each arrival. Additionally, record numbers of fans signed on for the Diamond Club.

This year's 2008 Del Mar Summer Concert Series again attracted funseekers of all ages for the free concerts featuring well-known artists following the last race on select Saturdays and during the popular 4 O'Clock Friday series.

Other events like the track's "Pizza ‘N Ponies" Mondays – when a $21 track package that included a pizza and drink sold for only $10 – free seniors' days, "Donuts at Del Mar" mornings and the track's discounted "Daybreak at Del Mar" breakfasts had their best-ever responses.

Del Mar's second season with its new Polytrack racing surface proved even more successful than the first with the addition of new materials and a different maintenance routine that included the use of water.

"We were better with our Polytrack this year as we work our way through the learning curve something like this takes," Harper stated. "We're on a positive run with this major investment we've made in our horses and riders."

Other season highlights include Top Jockey honors for Raphael Bejarano, the rising Peruvian star who won 45 races during the 43-day meet to capture his third straight riding title (after championships at Santa Anita and Hollywood Park) in his first full season in Southern California. Additionally, veteran John Sadler claimed his first Del Mar training title by saddling 31 winners, and Gary and Cecil Barber were double-barrel scorers as the meet's top owners – winning the most races ever in a single Del Mar season (14) and 2008 money-won honors ($633,700).

For more 2008 results visit www.delmarracing.com and for information about tickets and entertainment for the 2009 season visit www.delmarscene.com or call (858) 755-1141.

Posted by Jamie

SAN DIEGO, Calif. – September 8, 2008 – Bailey Gardiner (http://www.baileygardiner.com), a creative agency specializing in advertising, public relations, media, interactive and design, has been retained by Setai San Diego to handle local, regional and national public relations for the hotel, including its grand opening.

Slated to open in late 2008 in downtown San Diego, the five–star property is the first Setai to open on the west coast. Located on Fifth Ave. in the Financial District just outside of the Gaslamp Quarter, it will offer ultra–chic, world–class amenities, sophisticated design and a luxurious destination for discerning travelers.

“Setai San Diego is a premier luxury hotel being led by a terrific group of seasoned professionals like Craig Waterman, its general manager" said Bailey Gardiner Chief Operations Officer Indra Gardiner. "We are delighted to be working with this prestigious brand that will elevate the city's luxury hospitality market.”

For more information on Bailey Gardiner, click here.

Posted by Jamie Seaport Village lines-up fall entertainment and holiday festivities

SAN DIEGO – Fall's fresh ocean breezes and warm sunrays make it a season for embracing the outdoors in San Diego.  Fourteen-acres of shopping, dining and FREE entertainment along sweeping harbor views will beckon families, locals and visitors to San Diego's downtown waterfront at Seaport Village.

Autumn festivities at Seaport Village feature:

• FREE musical performance ranging from rock 'n' roll and rhythm and blues to swing and Latin beats. Weekends from 1-4 p.m.  See the full schedule here. 
• Stroll along Seaport's winding cobblestone paths and be captivated by the talents of roaming entertainers bringing a fresh dynamic to Seaport's existing ranks of sidewalk entertainment.

With so much to enjoy, there's no doubt you'll be capturing your memories on film.  Share your Seaport photos and videos at http://blog.seaportvillage.com for a chance to win a new prize each month ranging from dinners and shopping discounts to an overnight stay at the Manchester Grand Hyatt.

With fall in the air comes the anticipation of the holidays and Seaport Village has the festivities, ambiance and shopping to create a one-stop destination.   The village boasts more than 50 one-of-a-kind shops for holiday gifts and Santa makes an appearance for Breakfast with Santa at the Harbor House Restaurant, Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 15 and 16, from 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m..  The morning includes a full breakfast, pictures with Santa, face painting, balloon artists, kids show, and a gift bag for the kids.  Call early, as space is limited.

For more information go to www.seaportvillage.com or call 619-235-4014.