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An Exclusive Q&A with Musical Legend — Tony Bennett

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Inland Empire Business Journal had the unique opportunity to engage in a short Q&A with American Legend — Tony Bennett.

By: Inland Empire Business Journal- January 23, 2020

IEBJ: So you’re 93 years young! Most people are retired at this age, but, you’re still going strong. What inspires you to keep singing?

TONY: I have always wanted to make people happy by entertaining them – it’s that simple.  So when I perform I pick the best possible songs that I can find and surround myself on stage with master musicians and I during my show I hope that the audience has a chance to just enjoy themselves, and forget about their own worries and problems for a little while. If they walk out of the theatre feeling good that makes me happy.

IEBJ: You are one of a handful of artists to have new albums charting in the ’50s, ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, ’90s, and now in the first two decades of the 21st century. What are some of the keys to your success?

TONY: This April it will be 70 years since I made my first recording with Columbia Records and back then my premise was to try to achieve a “hit catalog” and not just go after hit songs that might make it big for a few weeks and then fade away.  I think if you stick with quality then no matter what you are doing for a living it will click with the public.  I was taught never to underestimate the audience and to give them the very best performance and material that I could present.  I love what I do and I honestly feel like I have never worked a day in my life.

IEBJ: If you could record one last duet with someone, who would it be? 

TONY: Well, I always love to work with Lady Gaga – we have such a wonderful time singing and performing together.  She can do it all and has a very very long career ahead of her.

IEBJ: Who’s your favorite musician today?

TONY: Of all time it might have to be Louis Armstrong – he really taught us all how to sing. For a contemporary artist, I think Stevie Wonder is a genius.  I remember when we recorded “For Once In My Life,” for the DUETS album, we had some time in the studio before they were ready to record and he was at the piano and started to play this magnificent jazz solo and I thought it was Oscar Peterson.  I would love to do a piano jazz album with Stevie.

IEBJ: Here’s an off-topic question. You’re a World War II Veteran; Some think World War III is upon us — what say you?

TONY: During my time in WWII, I came home a pacifist with the belief that violence is the lowest form of human behavior.  I am still hopeful that we will see a world where wars are a thing of the past as we have more in common with each other than we have differences.  My neighbor when I lived in Los Angeles was Ella Fitzgerald and she used to say to me, “Tony, we are all here.”  And she was absolutely right so we need to take care of each other.

Tony Bennett’s life and philosophy is the embodiment of the Great American Story. Having celebrated his 92nd birthday on August 3rd, 2019, his career as the pre-eminent singer of the 20th and 21st centuries is unprecedented. He continues to be embraced and loved by audiences of all generations.

Folks can see Tony Bennett in concert on Sunday, January 26th, 2020 at 7:30 pm at Pechanga Theater in Temecula. For more information and to purchase tickets, click here.

 

The Inland Empire Business Journal (IEBJ) is the official business news publication of Southern California’s Inland Empire region - covering San Bernardino & Riverside Counties.

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Business

Sunset Soirée 2023: A Night of Collaboration and Celebration in the Inland Empire

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Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce, in Partnership with Riverside Convention Center and NFL Alumni Association, Hosts a Memorable Evening of Networking, Music, and Community Engagement.

On September 7th, the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration with the Riverside Convention Center and the NFL Alumni Association of Southern California, successfully hosted their much-anticipated annual event, the “Sunset Soirée.” The event was proudly presented by isolved, a leading company dedicated to transforming the future of work through a unique blend of software and services tailored for payroll, benefits, and HR professionals.

Over 200 esteemed guests graced the occasion, immersing themselves in an evening filled with business networking, summer festivities, and the promise of forging meaningful connections. The Sunset Soirée has always been a beacon for professionals to exchange visionary ideas, collaborate, and expand their networks.

The evening began with a warm welcome, as each guest was greeted with a complimentary drink, setting a tone of camaraderie and relaxed interaction. An array of delectable complimentary hors d’oeuvres was served, each expertly crafted to tantalize the taste buds and fuel engaging conversations.

The event was graced by notable speakers, including Edward Ornelas, Jr., President & CEO of the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce; James Washington, President of the NFL Alumni Association of Southern California and 2x Superbowl Champion with the Dallas Cowboys; and Barbra Rogers, Director of Operations at Riverside Convention Center.

Mr. Edward Ornelas, Jr. remarked, “The Sunset Soirée is more than just an event; it’s a testament to the spirit of collaboration and community in the Inland Empire. We’re honored to bring together such a diverse and dynamic group of professionals, and I’m personally thrilled to see the connections and partnerships that will undoubtedly emerge from tonight.”

The atmosphere was further elevated by the presence of a talented musician who serenaded the attendees with live music, adding a harmonious touch to the evening. The highlight of the night was a special performance by the acclaimed Country Music Artist, Presley Tennant. Known for her powerful vocals and unique blend of California-Country music, Tennant has shared the stage with music legends like Tim McGraw, Kelly Clarkson, Carly Pearce, and Blake Shelton. Her commitment to animal welfare through her Riffs & Rescues virtual charity tour showcases not just her immense talent but also her golden heart.

The Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce extends its heartfelt gratitude to all attendees, partners, and sponsors for making the Sunset Soirée a resounding success. The chamber remains committed to fostering business growth, collaboration, and community engagement in the Inland Empire region.

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Entertainment

Inland Empire Collaborative Launches with Grand Celebration

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Powering the Future of Sports & Entertainment through Collaboration

The Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce (IERCC) is pleased to announce the successful launch of the Inland Empire Sports & Entertainment Collaborative (IESEC). The vibrant launch party took place yesterday at the popular Topgolf in Ontario, attracting an enthusiastic crowd of approximately 200 attendees.

The event was graced by a lineup of notable speakers, including Dave Allen, West Region President for NASCAR, James Washington, President of the NFL Alumni Southern California Chapter, Michael K. Krouse, President & CEO of the Greater Ontario Convention & Visitors Bureau, Nikki Gatch, CEO of the Southern California PGA, Mike Burrows, CEO of the San Bernardino International Airport, and Edward Ornelas, Jr., President of the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce.

These distinguished figures shared their insights on the potential of the IESEC to stimulate growth, foster community engagement, and enhance the local economy through sports and entertainment.

IESEC is proud to acknowledge its sponsors, Bank of America and the San Bernardino County Economic Development Agency, for their invaluable support. The Collaborative is a testament to the power of synergy, with agencies such as the Southern California PGA, NFL Alumni SoCal, NASCAR, GOCAL, San Bernardino Int’l Airport, Ontario Reign, Empire Strykers, Inland Empire 66ers, Rancho Cucamonga Quakes, Ontario Clippers, and Southern California’s Greater Ontario Sports & Entertainment Authority actively participating.

In true festive spirit, guests were treated to an evening of sumptuous food, refreshing drinks, and engaging golf play. The energy and enthusiasm echoed the IESEC’s vision of fostering a sense of community through sports and entertainment.

IESEC, spearheaded by the IERCC, is committed to promoting, supporting, and facilitating partnerships between local businesses and regional sports teams, and entertainment venues throughout the Inland Empire. The initiative aims to create memorable experiences while generating revenue, stimulating economic growth, and positively impacting the community.

“Our goal with IESEC is to build a stronger, more connected community united in its love of sports and entertainment,” said Edward Ornelas, Jr., President of the IERCC. “By bringing people together to celebrate the best that the Inland Empire offers, we are creating a platform for exciting new opportunities and experiences.”

IESEC, initiated by the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce, is a consortium of experienced professionals dedicated to supporting sports and entertainment events in the Inland Empire region. Through partnerships with local businesses, community organizations, and government entities, IESEC serves as a central hub for promoting a wide variety of cultural and entertainment experiences. By encouraging community participation and economic growth, IESEC aims to build a stronger, more vibrant Inland Empire.

For more information about the IESEC and its ongoing projects, please visit our website at www.iechamber.org

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By Press Release

South Coast Winery Resort & Spa Newly Appoints Albert Park as Executive Chef

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South Coast Winery Resort & Spa has named seasoned culinary professional Albert Park as its new executive chef at this multi-award-winning winery and luxurious wine country resort.

#peopleonthemove

Prior to this appointment, Park served as executive sous chef at The Pacific Club in Newport Beach, Calif., overseeing Talbot Grill. In his new position, Park’s responsibilities include overseeing culinary operations of the resort’s signature all-day The Vineyard Rose Restaurant, where he is supervising the kitchen team as they launch newly created menus featuring innovative California cuisine sourced seasonally, responsibly and locally.

Examples from the chef’s new spring dinner menu feature entrees such as “Birria” Short Rib accompanied by Manchego grits, thumbelina carrots, curtido and queso fresca and a delightful Fisherman’s Stew composed of clams, mussels, fish, crab claws, fennel and tomato-fennel broth.

In addition, Park is in charge of the poolside Vineyard Grill at South Coast’s sister property Carter Estate and Resort. He oversees in-room dining at both winery resorts and onsite menus for meetings, weddings and special occasions.

“Chef Albert brings a wealth of culinary expertise, impressive managerial and organizational skills, valuable mentoring and leadership acumen to our Temecula winery resorts,” said Jeff Carter, president of Carter Hospitality, owner and operator of South Coast Winery Resort & Spa and Carter Estate Winery and Resort. “With South Coast being a top 20-year-old winery in beautiful Temecula, we are certain his contributions will lead to further success and acclaim for our culinary program.”

Park’s past kitchen experience includes his position at Newport Beach’s prestigious The Pacific Club for the last six years. Previous to that, he was chef de cuisine at Bosscat Kitchen and Libations also in Newport Beach and held the same position at now-closed Six Park Grill at the former Hyatt Regency Irvine.

Park graduated magna cum laude from the International Culinary School at the Art Institutes of California-Orange County with a Bachelor of Science degree in culinary management. Leisure time includes traveling with his wife and their three children and assisting his sons’ baseball teams.

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