Agriculture
The Olive Press continues to be as a highly awarded olive oil producer in North America by being named “Best of USA” at Terra Olivo, Israel’s international olive oil competition. The Olive Press won six gold medals including “Best of USA” and Gran Prestige Gold for Picual Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Another Gran Prestige Gold was awarded for Arbequina Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and a Prestige Gold Medal for Ascolano Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Gold medals were awarded for Lunigiana Extra Virgin, Blood Orange and Limonato olive oils. In addition to the 15 medals awarded to The Olive Press in 2013 by Olive Japan, the Sonoma County Harvest Fair and the Napa Valley Olive Oil Competition, the company has earned 21 medals so far this year, totaling 231 since 2001.Government
U.S. Rep. Mike Thompson, D-St. Helena, co-founded the bipartisan Congressional Invasive Species Caucus with Rep. Dan Benishek, R-Michigan district 1. The caucus goal is to raise awareness about invasive species, support local communities bearing the brunt of this problem, and promote efforts to prevent and control the spread of invasive species. The caucus will provide opportunities for members of congress to meet with other policy makers, organizations and industry leaders that are working to prevent the spread of invasive species.Hospitality
Hotel Healdsburg and Charlie Palmer’s Dry Creek Kitchen opened Spirit Bar, taking the place of Lobby Bar. It has returned to classic cocktails, a menu of local appetizers, small-batch spirits and a wide selection of the area wines.Marketing
Kurt Hoffmann, principal of Abra Marketing (AbraMarketing.com), relocated the agency to Santa Rosa. The award-winning, full-service advertising agency was previously located in Redding. Established in 1999, the agency serves clients across the U.S.Retail
Lappert’s Ice Creams premium, handmade ice creams and yogurts will now be available at Town Center Corte Madera (shoptowncenter.com). Family-owned and -operated by Corte Madera’s Isaac Lappert, Lappert's is known for fine, creamy ice cream created from pure ingredients. Lappert’s new store at Town Center is located adjacent to the elephant fountain in the central courtyard.
