Releases

Claremont Chamber hosts Women’s Leadership Conference

Join the Claremont Chamber of Commerce for a day of motivation, inspiration and fun at their Women’s Leadership Conference on Friday, March 6, 2015 from 9 a.m. Claremont-women – 3 p.m. at the DoubleTree by Hilton Claremont, 555 W. Foothill Blvd. Claremont.

Presented by Claremont Lincoln University, this day-long conference will explore significant topics including the hidden rules of success, personal branding and the history of women. The attendees will also have the opportunity to have a panel discussion with current and former women elected officials.

Featured speakers will include: Lori Giovannoni, a nationally recognized speaker, author and businesswomen; JuliAnn Stitick, nationally-known personal brand and image consultant; and Dr. Peg Lamphier, author and IGE Professor at Cal Poly Pomona. All are welcome and encouraged to attend – as it will be an empowering day filled with practical information for everyone.

Cost per person is $100, which includes a continental breakfast and lunch. Registration is available online at www.claremontchamber.org by Friday, February 27th. For information on becoming a sponsor or exhibitor call (909) 624-1681.

About the Speakers:

Lori Giovannoni is an award-winning speaker, author and businesswoman. Her clients include small businesses, as well as Fortune 500 companies and departments within federal, state and city governments. Lori’s contributions as a volunteer in her community have earned her many awards, including the Athena Award. As the Dean of Executive Women International’s Academy of Leadership, Lori has designed and developed all the courses that comprise the Academy of Leadership.
JuliAnn Stitick, a nationally-known personal brand and image consultant, will speak on personal branding, encompassing communication skills, body language, presentation, wardrobe, client experience, organization and followup. JuliAnn is a trusted image advisor for top level entrepreneurs globally and organizations crossing every industry, including the Oscars, the Golden Globes, Disney, Nordstrom and Lexus.
Dr. Peg Lamphier is an author and Professor at Cal Poly Pomona. Peg attended Arizona State University and the Claremont Graduate School. Her first book was published in 2003 about politics and gender during the Civil War. Peg is currently under contract with Blackwell-Wiley as co-author for a Civil War and Reconstruction text book and is an editor of a four volume Encyclopedia of American Women with ABC-Clio.

Claremont, California, Hotels Welcome Holiday Shoppers with Getaway Package

Claremont, California, hotels are getting into the holiday spirit this fall with a unique “Shop and Stay in Claremont” getaway package that will provide visitors with opportunities to shop in the city’s unique boutiques, dine in one of its fabulous restaurants and enjoy a night away in one of its great little hotels.

DiscoverClaremont All336 — Holiday shopping in Claremont includes visits to locally owned boutiques filled with hand-selected merchandise.

Claremont is home to dozens of locally owned boutiques filled with merchandise hand selected by their owners. From fashion and furnishings to unique, upcycled home décor items, Claremont offers visitors Fair Trade Shopping and thousands of inspired holiday gift choices.

Southern California visitors who Discover Claremont through December 31, 2014, may choose a hotel package that includes a comfortable guest room and $100 in Discover Claremont gift cards redeemable at hotels or more than 140 boutiques, restaurants, day spas and entertainment venues in the city.

A limited number of “Shop and Stay in Claremont” getaway packages are available on a first-come, first-served basis to guests who book directly through participating Claremont hotels, including DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Claremont (909-626-2411), Hotel Casa 425 (909-624-2272), and Hotel Claremont and Tennis Club (909-621-4831).

Claremont’s popular gift card program is managed by the Claremont Chamber of Commerce. The gift cards are accepted at the hotels listed above as well as popular Claremont eateries like The Back Abbey, Bardot, Cheese Cave, Eureka Burger, Euro Café and Packing House Wines; live entertainment venues including PianoPiano, Candlelight Pavilion Dinner Theater, and The Press Restaurant; and local boutiques including Heirloom, Bath Workshop, The Green Gypsie, Barbara Cheatley Antiques, and many more.

Claremont’s visitor attractions include the Folk Music Center, owned by musician Ben Harper; the 86-acre Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, the largest botanic garden dedicated exclusively to California’s native plants; the Raymond M. Alf Museum of Paleontology at the Webb Schools; and galleries and libraries at the Claremont Colleges. Claremont visitors will also find a “food neighborhood” of more than 80 eateries, and craft beers at Claremont Craft Ales and many pubs and restaurants.

Claremont offers free parking throughout the city, or visitors can take Metrolink directly to the Claremont Village for an eco-friendly or bicycle getaway.

The hotel package is being underwritten by Discover Claremont, the Claremont tourism board. A complete list of Claremont merchants participating in the gift card promotion can be found at http://discoverclaremont.com/giftcards.

About Discover Claremont

Discover Claremont is the official destination marketing organization for the city of Claremont, California. Known for its seven nationally renowned colleges, Claremont is a hidden gem in greater Los Angeles – an ideal destination for intimate, relaxing days and nights. Visitors who “Take Time to Exhale” under Claremont’s urban canopy will discover inviting guest rooms, relaxing day spas, more than 80 restaurants and pubs, dozens of locally owned boutiques, bicycle-friendly streets and trails, and an abundance of outdoor activities. Claremont is also the first Fair Trade Town in Southern California, reflecting the community’s commitment to using ethically sourced products; many local retailers and eateries carry Fair Trade Certified™ merchandise and foods. Whether by car or Metrolink, Claremont is “the getaway that’s only a few miles away.”

Claremont Hosts 33rd Annual Arts and Crafts Faire

The Claremont Chamber of Commerce presents their 33rd Village Venture Arts and Crafts Faire on Saturday, October 25, 2014 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. sponsored by Claremont Toyota and Claremont Volkswagen.

VV photo #1 With an estimated 15,000 people in attendance each year, the streets of the Claremont Village will be filled with 450+ booths selling unique art, original crafts, apparel, business and organization information, international food and entertainment.

Festivities will include a children’s pre-carved pumpkin competition sponsored
by Claremont Sunrise Rotary. Pre-carved pumpkins should be dropped off between 8:30 a.m.- 9:30 a.m. at Shelton Park located at the corner of Harvard Ave. and Bonita Ave. Judging will take place at 2 p.m.

A traditional children’s Halloween costume parade will begin at 9:30 a.m. All participants must assemble at the corner of Harvard Ave. and Bonita Ave. by 9:15 a.m. (No motorized vehicles will be allowed in the parade.) All participants will receive a goodie bag at the end of the parade, sponsored by Moultrie Academy of Music Voice and Dance.

VV photo #2 No need to worry about parking. A complementary off-site shuttle service will be provided by Pomona Valley Transit Authority. Shuttle locations: Claremont University Facilities on First St. and Mills Ave. Cahuilla Park parking lot on Scripps Ave. and Indian Hill Blvd. and St. Ambrose Episcopal Church on Bonita Ave. and Mountain Ave.

Don’t miss out on this fun-filled family event. For more information contact the Claremont Chamber of Commerce at (909) 624-1681 or visit www.claremontchamber.org

“Beat the Southern California Heat” in Claremont, California, This Summer with Hotel Getaway Package

With weather in the Greater Los Angeles area heating up, hotels in Claremont, California, are offering a unique “Beat The Southern California Heat” getaway package that will provide visitors with a relaxing break.

Travelers who Discover Claremont between August 1 and October 31, 2014, may choose a hotel package that includes a comfortable guest room, two welcoming cocktails or non-alcoholic beverages, a pair of Laemmle Theater movie tickets — which can be used at Laemmle’s Claremont 5 in the Claremont Village Square — and $20 in Discover Claremont gift cards for post-movie desserts.

A limited number of “Beat The Southern California Heat” getaway packages are available on a first-come, first-served basis to guests who book directly through participating Claremont hotels, including DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Claremont (909-626-2411), Hotel Casa 425 (909-624-2272), and Hotel Claremont and Tennis Club (909-621-4831). The Discover Claremont gift cards are redeemable for food at the hotels or at more than 40 other local eateries.

Summer is a great season to explore Claremont’s visitor attractions, such as the Folk Music Center, owned by musician Ben Harper; and the 86-acre Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, the largest botanic garden dedicated exclusively to California’s native plants. Claremont visitors will also find a “food neighborhood” of more than 80 eateries; Fair Trade Shopping and hand-selected merchandise at locally owned boutiques; live entertainment at PianoPiano, Hip Kitty Jazz, Flappers Comedy Club, Candlelight Pavilion and other spots; and craft beers at Claremont Craft Ales and many other pubs and restaurants. The Raymond M. Alf Museum of Paleontology at the Webb Schools and galleries and libraries at the Claremont Colleges resume their normal visitor hours in September.

Visitors will find free parking throughout the city, or can take Metrolink directly to the Claremont Village for an eco-friendly getaway.

About Discover Claremont

Claremont to Host “Claremont Restaurant Week,” July 14-20, 2014

Claremont is hosting its second annual Claremont Restaurant Week from July 14-20, 2014. The seven-day “Midsummer Night’s Dine” event showcases the City of Tree’s many grills, sandwich shops, bakeries, and fine dining restaurants. With a growing number of regionally acclaimed restaurants and dozens of locally owned eateries keeping the food scene fresh, it’s no wonder that critics have declared Claremont a “food neighborhood” that’s “worth the drive” for foodies and tourists. Many of Claremont’s more than 75 eateries and hotel restaurants will participate by offering prix fixe lunch and dinner menus, ranging from $10-$40, that highlight their chef’s specialty cuisines. Restaurants confirmed to participate include the following:

Aruffo’s Italian Cuisine
Bardot
Casa de Salsa
Casa Moreno
Euro Café
La Parolaccia Osteria
Lounge 425 at Hotel Casa 425
The Last Drop Café
The Loving Hut Claremont
The Orchard at DoubleTree by Hilton Claremont
Packing House Wines
Pappas Artisanal (La Verne)
Pizza n’ Such
Podge’s Claremont Juice Co.
The Press Restaurant
Rounds Burgers
Saca’s Mediterranean Cuisine
Salad Farm
Tutti Mangia
Viva Madrid
Walter’s Restaurant
Zpizza Claremont

“Claremont Restaurant Week will showcase our growing, local culinary scene that is comprised of some terrific young chefs, experienced and daring proprietors, menus filled with locally sourced ingredients, and restaurants serving craft beers and ales that complement their meals,” said Maureen Aldridge, CEO, Claremont Chamber of Commerce. More details and a growing list of participating restaurants can be found at www.ClaremontRestaurant.com.

Discover Claremont to Offer “Flitter and Frolic” Getaway Package, May 23 to July 27

Families who come Discover Claremont this spring and summer can experience a unique opportunity to walk among California native butterflies. Discover Claremont, the Claremont tourism board, is partnering with the Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden for a “Flitter and Frolic” overnight package that includes garden admissions, local dining and shopping credits, and a comfortable hotel room.

Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden’s annual Butterfly Pavilion runs from May 10 through

Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Butterfly Festival — The Butterfly Pavilion at Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden opens on May 10.

July 27, 2014. The pavilion unites science education and hands-on fun for visitors of all ages as hundreds of butterflies call the temporary enclosure home this spring and summer. Visitors can walk among the butterflies and caterpillars as well as explore the 86-acre botanic garden, the largest botanic garden dedicated exclusively to California’s native plants.

Beginning Memorial Day weekend, May 23, and continuing until the butterflies are set free on July 27, Southern Californians looking for a local escape will find Discover Claremont’s “Flitter and Frolic” getaway package to be an attractive “stay and relax” option. The package includes a minimum one-night stay, separate Botanic Garden and Butterfly Pavilion admissions for up to four guests, and $50 in Discover Claremont gift cards redeemable at participating hotels and more than 130 other locally owned establishments.

A limited number of “Flitter and Frolic in Claremont” packages are available on a first-come, first-served basis to guests who book directly through participating Claremont hotels, including Hotel Casa 425 (909-624-2272), DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Claremont (909-626-2411), and Hotel Claremont and Tennis Club (909-621-4831).

Claremont’s visitor attractions also include the world-renowned Folk Music Center museum and store, owned by musician Ben Harper’s family; Fair Trade Shopping at dozens of independently owned boutiques; live entertainment at PianoPiano, Hip Kitty Jazz, Flappers Comedy Club, Candlelight Pavilion and other spots; and local and regional craft beers at Claremont Craft Ales, The Back Abbey and other pubs and eateries.

A complete list of Claremont merchants participating in the gift card promotion can be found at http://discoverclaremont.com/giftcards.

Claremont Ski & Surf Winter Escape Specials Available through March 31, 2014

Claremont, nestled in the San Gabriel Mountains between the area’s ski resorts and beaches, is offering a winter special for visitors who are looking to ski and surf the Southland. Claremont’s location on the Los Angeles County border makes it possible for visitors to ski in the local mountains at sunrise, grab a quick lunch, surf in the Pacific Ocean in the afternoon, and enjoy a fine meal and entertainment at night.

Claremont welcomes travelers to “stay and relax” at one of the city’s hotel and motel properties and enjoy the town’s many tourist amenities. This winter, through March 31, 2014, the Claremont tourism board is offering its popular “Discover Claremont” stay-and-relax package that includes a minimum one-night stay and $100 in gift cards redeemable at more than 130 locally owned eateries, boutiques, day spas and salons, and entertainment venues.

A limited number of “Discover Claremont” packages are available on a first-come, first-served basis to guests who book directly through participating Claremont hotels, including Hotel Casa 425 (909-624-2272), DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Claremont (909-626-2411), and Hotel Claremont and Tennis Club (909-621-4831).

Foodies can redeem Claremont gift cards all day long: Start your morning at Some Crust Bakery or The Last Drop Café, grab a to-go lunch from the Cheese Cave or Wolfe’s Market, sip a cold one at Claremont Craft Ales or the Lounge at Casa 425, enjoy a dinner at restaurants like Orchard, La Parolaccia, Aruffo’s, Espiau’s or the bistro at Packing House Wines, and grab a dessert at I Like Pie.

Shoppers will enjoy exploring Claremont’s boutiques like Rio de Ojas, Colors 91711, Nectar, Barbara Cheatly Antiques, Heirloom, and Aromatique.

Entertainment options using Discover Claremont gift cards include Dueling PianoPiano at the DoubleTree by Hilton, and the Candlelight Pavilion dinner theater.

Claremont’s attractions also include the 86-acre Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, the largest botanic garden dedicated exclusively to California’s native plants; and the world-renowned Folk Music Center museum and store, owned by musician Ben Harper’s family.

A complete list of Claremont merchants participating in the gift card promotion can be found at http://discoverclaremont.com/giftcards/.

Five Claremont, California Hotels Welcome Parents, Campus Visitors Back to Town this Fall

As students return to the Claremont Colleges for the 2013-2014 school year, the City of Claremont’s five hotel properties welcome parents and other campus visitors to stick around and enjoy a relaxing getaway in the “City of Trees.”

From economy to boutique, Claremont’s 449 hotel rooms provide guests with inviting accommodations and peaceful nights. Staying in Claremont puts you in walking or bicycling distance to the city’s day spas and salons, locally owned boutiques, galleries and public works of art, and more than 80 pubs, grills, sandwich shops, bakeries and fine dining restaurants.

Claremont’s attractions include the 86-acre Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, the largest botanic garden dedicated exclusively to California’s native plants; and the world-renowned Folk Music Center museum and store, which is owned by musician Ben Harper’s family. The city’s nighttime entertainment boasts classical, jazz, comedy, dueling pianos, a vibrant college music scene, and performing arts at the colleges and Candlelight Pavilion.

At the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Claremont ($149-$350), elegant, contemporary guest rooms and suites offer comfort and convenience with luxurious Sweet Dreams® beds, 32-inch flat screen LCD televisions, in-room safes, refrigerators, and high-speed Internet access. Relax with friends, alumni or business associates in its lush courtyard, enjoy a cocktail or meal by the waterfall, and dine in casual elegance at The Orchard Restaurant, serving a wide selection of California Mediterranean Fusion influenced dishes. Piano Piano’s high-energy, all-request show keeps guests singing laughing into the night! Ask for special college rates.

Hotel Casa 425 ($195-$400) is a stylish boutique hotel and lounge opening onto a tranquil courtyard in the heart of historic Claremont Village. The only sophisticated boutique hotel in Southern California’s Inland Empire, Casa 425 merges California mission architecture with contemporary styling and features 28 sophisticated guest rooms, an onsite lounge and full bar, a beautiful outdoor living room featuring water fountains and fire pits, meeting and event space, and more.

Claremont Lodge ($49-$80) offers unbeatable accommodations with comfortable stylish rooms, including available Jacuzzi suites. Amenities include an outdoor swimming pool and free Wi-Fi.

Hotel Claremont & Tennis Club ($69-$129) features one of Southern California’s finest tennis facilities available year-round with eight lighted championship tennis courts. Guest amenities include free local shuttle, free Wi-Fi, swimming and wading pools, Jacuzzi, and free use of its championship tennis courts; group and private tennis lessons are available for an additional fee. Rooms feature 32-inch LCD TVs and refrigerators, and hotel guests also enjoy a daily continental breakfast, including fresh waffles, fruit and cereal.

Howard Johnson Express Inn Claremont ($55-$85) provides free Rise & Dine continental breakfast and an outdoor pool. Features include free Wi-Fi, available laundry and valet services, and parking for vehicles of any size.

Visitor information and a listing of restaurants, hotels, boutiques, day spas, events and more can be found at www.discoverclaremont.com.

About Discover Claremont

Discover Claremont is the official destination marketing organization for the city of Claremont, California. Known for its seven nationally renowned colleges, Claremont is a hidden gem in greater Los Angeles – an ideal destination for intimate, relaxing days and nights. Visitors who “Take Time to Exhale” under Claremont’s urban canopy will discover inviting guest rooms, relaxing day spas, more than 80 restaurants and pubs, dozens of locally owned boutiques, and an abundance of outdoor activities from bicycling to skiing to golf. Claremont is also the first Fair Trade Town in Southern California, reflecting the community’s commitment to using ethically sourced products; many local retailers and eateries carry Fair Trade Certified™ merchandise and foods. Whether by car or Metrolink, Claremont is “the getaway that’s only a few miles away.”

Claremont to Host “Claremont Restaurant Week,” July 9-16, 2013

The “City of Trees” will become the “City of Eats” when Claremont hosts its first-ever Claremont Restaurant Week – running for eight nights, July 9-16, 2013 – to showcase its many pubs, grills, sandwich shops, bakeries, and fine dining restaurants. Visitors will discover a wide variety of cuisines as 20 of the city’s locally owned eateries and hotel restaurants will participate by offering prix fixe dinner menus. claremont_restaurant_week_2013

The participating Claremont restaurants will offer three courses for $20, $30 and $40, in addition to their regular menus:

Aruffo’s (Italian)
Casa de Salsa (Mexican)
Casa Moreno (Mexican)
The Lounge at Hotel Casa 425 (American (new))
Eddie’s New York Pizzeria (Italian)
Espiau’s (American and Mexican)
Euro Café (Portuguese)
Kazama Sushi (Japanese)
La Parolaccia Osteria Italiana (Italian)
The Last Drop Café (special lunch menu)
Loving Hut Claremont (Vegan)
The Orchard at the DoubleTree by Hilton Claremont (California fusion)
Packing House Wine Merchants (American bistro)
Pita Pit Claremont (Greek)
Pizza ‘N Such (Italian)
The Press Restaurant (American)
Saca’s Mediterranean Cuisine
Tutti Mangia Italian Grill (Italian)
Walters (Mediterranean, American)
Z Pizza (Italian)

“Claremont Restaurant Week will showcase the stellar chefs, delicious menus and outstanding restaurants that make up the Claremont culinary scene,” said Maureen Aldridge, CEO, Claremont Chamber of Commerce. Additional details and links to the event menus can be found at http://www.ClaremontRestaurant.com.

Local hotels offering special Discover Claremont packages, based on availability, include Hotel Casa 425 and DoubleTree by Hilton Claremont. Visitor information and a complete listing of restaurants, hotels, boutiques, day spas, events and more can be found at www.discoverclaremont.com.

About Discover Claremont

Discover Claremont is the official destination marketing organization for the city of Claremont, California. Known for its seven nationally renowned colleges, Claremont is a hidden gem in greater Los Angeles – an ideal destination for intimate, relaxing days and nights. Visitors who “Take Time to Exhale” under Claremont’s urban canopy will discover inviting guest rooms, relaxing day spas, more than 80 restaurants and pubs, dozens of locally owned boutiques, and an abundance of outdoor activities from bicycling to skiing to golf. Claremont is also the first Fair Trade Town in Southern California, reflecting the community’s commitment to using ethically sourced products; many local retailers and eateries carry Fair Trade Certified™ merchandise and foods. Whether by car or Metrolink, Claremont is “the getaway that’s only a few miles away.”

Butterfly Pavilion at Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Opens May 11

See the Miracle of Butterfly Metamorphosis!

butterfly6 butterfly5 The Butterfly Pavilion at Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden unites science education and hands-on fun for visitors of all ages. The pavilion is open daily May 11 through July 28, 10 a.m. until 3 p.m.

The Butterfly Pavilion focuses on the relationship between local butterflies and native plant California habitats. Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden is a privately-funded nonprofit organization dedicated to California native plants.

Pavilion admission is $2 per person (plus Garden admission or membership). Garden admission is free for RSABG members; $8 adults, $6 seniors and students and $4 children age 3 – 12 (under 3 free).

Butterfly Observation Tips

Wear light-colored clothing: Light-colored or white clothing may encourage a butterfly to land on you.
Come when it’s warm, or cool: Butterflies take flight as temperatures rise.
Slow down: These beautiful creatures are more likely to land on those who walk at a slower pace.
Remember your camera: Before you head over, grab your camera. No tripods, please.

The discerning palate of caterpillars helps explain why so many butterfly species are threatened. The major cause of species disappearance in a given area is almost always habitat destruction and the elimination of the plants that they need to survive. In spite of our extensive urban sprawl, Southern California has many species of butterflies that are fairly abundant and easily attracted to flowers or food plants in local gardens. Native plants are ideal for butterfly gardening because they provide food sources and in turn butterflies aid in flower pollination.

About RSABG

Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, founded in 1927 by Susanna Bixby Bryant, is the largest botanic garden dedicated exclusively to California native plants. The Garden is located on 86 acres in Claremont, approximately 35 miles east of Los Angeles. RSABG, a private, nonprofit organization, offers educational programs and special events throughout the year and is home of the Botany Department for Claremont Graduate University. The Garden offers a superb selection of California native plants for sale at Grow Native Nursery.

Visitor information

Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden is located at 1500 N. College Ave., Claremont, California. It is open daily from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., Jan. 1, July 4, Thanksgiving and Dec. 25. The California Garden Shop is open daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Admission: free for RSABG members; $8 adults; $6 seniors and students; $4 children 3-12; For more information please call (909) 625-8767 or visit www.rsabg.org.