BRIEFLY IN BUSINESS

Bureau honored by travel writers group

A press kit promoting Laguna Beach to travel writers has won a national award.

The Laguna Beach Visitors & Conference Bureau tied for first place with the Seattle Convention & Visitors Bureau for Best Overall Press Kit in a competition sponsored by the North American Travel Journalists Assn.

In an annual award process, the travel journalists reviewed more than 500 entries to select winners in several categories.

The Laguna Beach press kit consists of a trifold, full-color folder with photo CD, map, visitors and dining guide and information on lodging, attractions, festivals and history, plus the top 10 places to see in Laguna Beach. In addition, the Laguna Beach package includes a pen for journalists containing a 512-megabyte USB flash drive filled with articles and photographs.

Articles, books, broadcast tapes, press releases and press kits were submitted in 38 categories, including four designated for destination travel and 11 in Public Relations/CVBs/Publication Categories.

The 16th annual competition produced entries from virtually every top travel magazine, newspaper, Internet site, and publisher. For the complete list of all category winners, visit www.natja.org.

Hearts of Montage presents grant to Shelter

Hearts of Montage, the charitable giving arm of Montage Laguna Beach Resort, fulfilled a promise by presenting a $15,000 grant check to Laguna Beach’s Friendship Shelter.

The philanthropic organization collaborated with Friendship Shelter last fall by offering a challenge grant, which was fulfilled by the end of 2007.

Funds will be used to support efforts to facilitate new employment for residents who have been homeless and who are working their way back to productive lives.

“We are so grateful for their endorsement and their generosity,” said Friendship Shelter Executive Director Carol Rhoads.

Hearts of Montage co-president Laura Poochigian said Friendship Shelter plays an important role in the community.

“The level of care and support provided at Friendship Shelter creates a wonderful environment for those in need of a home. We hope this challenge grant will encourage others to support this important work,” Poochigian said.

“Friendship Shelter is love in action,” said Hearts of Montage board member Christine Liodolt, who also serves as the resort’s business manager. “Hearts of Montage unanimously approved the grant in recognition of the far-reaching benefits and value of Friendship Shelter programs.”

Friendship Shelter’s mission is to assist homeless adults regain self-sufficiency and become productive members of the community.

Founded in 1988, the program is the only one of its kind in south Orange County.

The shelter offers a 60-day program including meals and a wide range of support services to 31 homeless adult men and women.

Hearts of Montage is a volunteer outreach group of Montage Laguna Beach employees, who volunteer time, expertise and financial assistance to organizations.