Christopher Simmons
Christopher Simmons (aka Christopher Laird Simmons) has been a working journalist since his first magazine sale in 1984. He has since written for wide variety of print and online publications covering lifestyle, tech and entertainment. He is an award-winning author, designer, photographer, and musician. He is a member of ASCAP and PRSA. He is the founder and CEO of Neotrope®, based in Temecula, CA, USA.
Digital Arts Festival, DigiFest Temecula CA 2026, Celebrates 10 Years of Inspiration and Connection
CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE (TEMECULA) NEWS -- Returning to Temecula Wine Country for 2026, April 24, 25, 26, DigiFest is described by the event organizers as "a dynamic experience where creativity meets opportunity; a world of innovation, inspiration, and connection. Explore award-winning digital art across multiple categories, network with industry professionals, and take part in an event that could shape your creative future."
Domaine Carneros Named Sustainable Business of the Year by Napa Chamber of Commerce
CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE (NAPA, Calif.) -- NEWS Earlier this year, Domaine Carneros Winery received the Sustainable Business of the Year award from the Napa Chamber of Commerce, presented by MCE Clean Energy, a not-for-profit public agency that has set the standard for clean energy in California since 2010. Domaine Carneros was founded by the Taittinger family nearly four decades ago with the conviction that the finest méthode traditionnelle sparkling wines begin with the healthiest land.
New Research From UC Berkeley Reveals Who Is Leaving California, Where They Go, and Whether it Pays Off
CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE (BERKELEY) NEWS -- Today, a new report released by the nonpartisan California Policy Lab (CPL) finds that Californians who leave the state tend to relocate to substantially more affordable communities, and are more likely to become homeowners in the years that follow. CPL researchers used anonymized credit bureau data (spanning from 2016 to 2025) to follow individuals before and after they move and compared the financial picture of movers with similar Californians who remained in place.
Calif. Gov. Newsom signs first-of-its-kind executive order to strengthen AI protections and responsible use in the State
CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE (SAN FRANCISCO) -- NEWS: Today, Calif. Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order to strengthen California’s procurement processes and raise the bar for artificial intelligence companies seeking to do business with the state. The order aims to ensure that companies meet strong standards and demonstrate responsible policies that prevent misuse of their technology, while protecting users’ safety and privacy.
The Mortgage Collaborative to send advocacy committee to Washington DC for policy meetings
CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE - NEWS -- The Mortgage Collaborative (TMC), the nation's largest independent cooperative network for mortgage lenders, will send its Advocacy Committee to Washington, D.C. on April 16 to meet with federal policymakers and housing agencies to discuss mortgage lending, regulatory reform and housing affordability.
The Old Vine Registry Surpasses 10,000 Vineyards Globally, A Major Milestone in Documenting the Historic Vines
CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE - NEWS -- In just three years, a global effort to document the world's oldest vineyards has reached a major milestone. The Old Vine Registry, the world's leading public database dedicated to historic vineyards, announced today that it has surpassed 10,000 registered vineyards worldwide, achieving a goal originally set for 2027 more than a year ahead of schedule.
GeekyAnts Inc. Launches AI Pods, Closing the Enterprise AI Production Gap
CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE - NEWS -- GeekyAnts, a global technology consulting and product development company, today announced the formal launch of GeekyAnts AI and AI Pods, a two-tier delivery program built to take enterprise AI systems from proof of concept to production, addressing the infrastructure and accountability failures that have stalled most AI pilot programs in 2026.
Secured Signing Approved for RON and IPEN in Rhode Island and South Carolina, Now in Nearly 40 States
CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE - NEWS -- Secured Signing, a leading provider of tamperproof Digital Signatures and Online Notary solutions, is proud to announce its official approval as a trusted provider for Remote Online Notarization (RON) and In Person Electronic Notarization (IPEN) in nearly 40 U.S. states.
San Diego Author Spearheads New Camino Pilgrim Tradition Along the Camino de Santiago
CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE - NEWS -- The Santiago de Compostela Pilgrim's Reception Office in Spain reports that 530,999 people received a Compostela certificate of completion in 2025, up 6% over 2024. Author Karin Kiser of Camino Chronicles Press says the actual number of people walking or biking the Camino de Santiago routes is more than that - much more.
Author Cameron Bawden Reveals the Blueprint for Selling a Business in New Book ‘Home Service Empire’
CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE - NEWS -- In his powerful new book, "Home Service Empire: How I Built, Scaled, and Sold a Family of Businesses Worth Over $100 Million" (ISBN: 978-196833-852 paperback; 978-1968339869 ebook; 978-1968339845 hardcover; Legacy Launch Pad Publishing), entrepreneur Cameron Bawden shares the battle-tested blueprint behind building one of Arizona's largest privately owned home service companies-and exiting on his terms.
Adonna Wines Makes Its California Debut in Russian River Valley, Celebrating Heritage and Art of the Moment
CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE - NEWS -- On March 20, the first day of spring, Adonna Wines officially opens its spring allotment to the California market. Founded by Donna Kato, a Japanese American biochemist who left the world of science to tend the land and make wine of uncommon elegance, Adonna Wines is an allotment-only label available exclusively to mailing list members.
San Diego Area Resident Files Writ of Mandate Regarding California State Ferret Ban
CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE - SAN DIEGO -- Pat Wright, a California resident and advocate for ferret legalization, and founder of LegalizeFerrets.org, has filed a Petition for Writ of Mandate in Sacramento County Superior Court against the California Fish and Game Commission and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
Archive directory, The Guide to Public Archives II, unlocks secrets of world’s knowledge repositories
CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE - LOS ANGELES --- For the first time, journalists and researchers have a searchable directory of over 1,500 of the world's knowledge repositories. The new publication is from Newsjunkie.net, the data-journalism resource known for its "Who's Behind the News" reporting. Guide to Public Archives II, a fully revised and expanded directory of the world's artifact and document repositories, is designed to help journalists and scholars quickly and easily locate essential research materials.
LA Metro Launches New Website for 2026, Data Tool Improves Awareness of Public Safety Efforts, Results
CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE - Loa Angeles --- Metro has announced the launch of its new Safety Hub , a centralized online resource designed to provide riders, employees and the public with clear, accessible information about safety efforts and results across the transit system. The Safety Hub serves as a comprehensive entry point for information about Metro’s public safety initiatives and progress.
National Postdoctoral Association announces Gold, Fuhrmann, Cook Win 2026 Top Individual NPA Awards
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /California Newswire - NEWS/ -- As it celebrated 150 years of postdoctoral scholars in the U.S., the National Postdoctoral Association (NPA) announced at its annual conference that Michael S. Gold, Ph.D., Cynthia Furhmann, Ph.D., and Olivia K. Cook, Ph.D., are the 2026 winners of the organization's three most prestigious individual awards.
Hillcrest Hosts ‘Luck O’ the Draw’ Philanthropy Event in La Verne CA Supporting RESIDENTS IN NEED
LA VERNE, Calif. /California Newswire - NEWS/ -- Hillcrest will host its annual Luck O' the Draw fundraiser to support its benevolence funds, which assist residents who have outlived their financial resources and allow them to continue to live at Hillcrest. The community invites residents, supporters and neighbors to join them on Tuesday, March 17, at 6:30 p.m. for an evening of music, dessert and philanthropy in the Hillcrest Meeting House.
The Mortgage Collaborative launches enhanced benchmarking platform with new brand, TMC Insight
SAN DIEGO, Calif. /California Newswire - NEWS/ -- The Mortgage Collaborative (TMC), the nation's largest independent cooperative network for mortgage lenders, announced enhancements to its benchmarking platform and a rebrand from Benchmark to TMC Insight, delivering expanded dashboards and peer performance analysis for mortgage lenders.
The Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Home of the Academy Awards, to Be Powered by On-Site Renewable Energy Starting 2027
CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE - NEWS (HOLLYWOOD) -- The Dolby Theatre in Hollywood announced today a major sustainability milestone: the 2027 Oscars ceremony and all other events and concerts starting in 2027, will be supported by on-site renewable energy and related infrastructure, marking a significant leap towards reducing the environmental footprint of one of the world's most recognized venues. A similar project is expected at a later date at the TCL Chinese Theatre.
Comedians with Disabilities Act Announces Spring 2026 Tour in San Diego and NW US
SAN DIEGO, Calif. /California Newswire - NEWS/ -- The Comedians with Disabilities Act (CWDA), the groundbreaking comedy troupe that has been challenging perceptions and redefining humor since 2010, has announced its 2026 Spring Tour with stops in Montana, California, and Oregon. This Springs tour weaves theaters, colleges and community venues to showcase the talents of 11 comedians, many of whom are in the docu-special.
Domaine Carneros in Napa Debuts 2026 Scent & Savor, An Immersive Wine Tour of Aromas and Taste Transformations
NAPA, Calif. /California Newswire - NEWS/ -- Domaine Carneros invites wine lovers to experience its newest visitor offering, "Scent & Savor: A Wine Tour of Aromas and Taste Transformations," now available by appointment daily. One of several distinctive food and wine pairing experiences offered to visitors at the property, Scent & Savor is a 90-minute guided journey from vineyard to glass.
Informative Research names fintech pro Mark Jones as its new SVP of partner success
GARDEN GROVE, Calif. /California Newswire -NEWS/ -- Informative Research (IR), a leading technology provider of data-driven credit and verification solutions for the lending industry, today announced the appointment of Senior Vice President of Partner Success Mark Jones. In this role, Jones will develop and scale a strategy to expand IR's market reach and strengthen partnerships across the mortgage and fintech ecosystem.
Recovery Rocks PODCAST: Sobriety Is Suddenly ‘Chic,’ But It’s Been in Fiction for Decades
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /California Newswire - NEWS/ -- Recent coverage in major outlets, including a New York Times feature on the rise of "sober party girls" and alcohol-free social spaces, has framed not drinking as a newly emerging cultural trend. From curated sober parties to alcohol-free bars and wellness-driven nightlife, sobriety is increasingly being rebranded as aspirational, social and even chic, The Evolution of Publishing Institute announced today.
Petco Love Invests $15K in Sacramento SPCA for 2026 to Save and Improve the Lives of Local Pets
SACRAMENTO, Calif. /California Newswire - NEWS/ -- The Sacramento SPCA received a $15,000 grant investment from national nonprofit Petco Love in support of their lifesaving work for pets in Sacramento. Petco Love is a national nonprofit leading change for pets by harnessing the power of love to make communities and pet families closer, stronger, and healthier.
Veteran Screenwriter Jim Agnew Delivers an Unfiltered Guide to Surviving Hollywood, in TO LIVE AND WRITE IN LA
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /California Newswire - NEWS/ -- In a brutally honest and darkly humorous exploration of the film and television industry, veteran screenwriter Jim Agnew announces the release of "To Live and Write in LA: A Street-Level Guide to Surviving as a Screenwriter" (ISBN: 979-8218906696; published by Independent Global Solutions), brand partner Legacy Launch Pad Publishing announced today.
Solo Aging Expert Dr. Sara Zeff Geber to Lead Seminar at Hillcrest LaVerne on Planning for Secure Future
LA VERNE, Calif. /California Newswire - NEWS/ -- Hillcrest, a senior living community in La Verne, Calif., is hosting nationally recognized solo aging expert Dr. Sara Zeff Geber, PhD, founder of LifeEncore, for an educational seminar focused on preparing solo agers for the future. The free event will take place on Thursday, Feb. 26, from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. and will cover legal and financial strategies for maintaining independence. A solo ager is defined as anyone, single or partnered, who does not have children or is aging alone for any reason.
Calif. Gov. Newsom announces major expansion for 2026 of CalAssist mortgage relief program
CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE - NEWS/ -- Today, as part of the state’s work to directly address the needs of LA firestorm survivors, Calif. Governor Newsom announced the expansion of mortgage relief for survivors of qualified disasters, including the 2025 Los Angeles firestorms. The expansion makes available up to a full year of mortgage assistance up to $100,000 that does not need to be repaid. The expansion also allows more families to access this assistance with broader income eligibility.
Calif. Gov. Newsom announces appointments for 2.11.26 including to California Air Resources Board
CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE - NEWS/ -- On Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2026, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced the following appointments: First, Paula Stigler Granados, of San Diego, has been appointed to the California Air Resources Board. Stigler Granados has been an Associate Professor and Division Head of Environmental Health at San Diego State University’s School of Public Health since 2021.
LA Mayor Bass Join Entertainment Industry Leaders to Launch New Film Studio Campus in LA Arts District
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE -- NEWS/ -- ON Wednesday, Mayor Bass joined leaders from the entertainment industry to celebrate the opening of East End Studios’ new Mission Campus in LA’s Arts District. The opening of this state-of-the-art studio campus builds upon Mayor Bass’ efforts to make City Hall a dedicated partner to LA’s legacy industry, helping boost production in the city and spur the creation of new good-paying union jobs across Los Angeles.
Culver City Council Awards Performing Arts Grants to 26 Orgs for Events in 2026
CULVER CITY, Calif. /California Newswire -- NEWS/ -- The Culver City City Council today announced that it has awarded 26 organizations $200,518 for the 2026 Performing Arts Grant Program for presentations of music, theater and dance events. The Cultural Affairs Commission and staff have implemented Culver City’s Performing Arts Grant Program since its inception in 1994.
The Old Vine Registry Nears 9,400 Registered Vineyards as 1991 Plantings Become Eligible
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- The Old Vine Registry, the world's largest and most authoritative database of historic vine plantings, has entered the new year with 9,393 registered vineyards across 42 countries, reflecting a surge of new contributions over the past twelve months. With the turn of the calendar year, vineyards planted in 1991 have now reached the 35-year threshold and are newly eligible for inclusion.
The LA Local Launches New Hyperlocal Publications Serving 10 Additional L.A. Neighborhoods
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- The LA Local today announced the next phase of its groundbreaking newsroom expansion, including community-based news outlets and a website, thelalocal.org, to serve as a trusted source of local news and information. The LA Local is led by a team of civic and journalistic leaders with deep roots in Los Angeles dedicated to delivering free and fair reporting that better connects communities, strengthens local journalism and fosters collaboration among news organizations.
Culver City announces new 2026 Mayor and City Manager at Milestone Event
CULVBER CITY, Calif. /CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE/ -- This week, Culver City marked aa historic moment as the City Council selected new leadership in front of a large crowd within the Mike Balkman Council Chambers. Council Member Freddy Puza was unanimously voted to become Culver City's Mayor for 2026, becoming the first openly LGBTQ+ Mayor in Culver City’s 108-year history. Mayor Puza was first elected in 2022 as a City Council Member. He will serve as Mayor for a 12-month term.
L.A. Mayor Bass Announces Full Divestment From Coal In City Power Supply, Accelerating Transition to 100% Clean Energy
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE/ -- This week, L.A. Mayor Karen Bass announced an historic milestone in the City’s accelerated transition to 100 percent clean energy by 2035: the full divestment from coal in Los Angeles’ power supply. This achievement marks a pivotal step in the City’s decades-long commitment to environmental sustainability and climate leadership.
L.A. Mayor Bass to Host Justice Fair 2025, Connecting Angelenos with Jobs, Education, Opportunities
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE/ -- L.A. Mayor Bass is inviting Angelenos impacted by the justice system to the Justice Fair 2025: Gifts That Keep Giving” on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at the LA Expo Center. Hosted by her Office of Community Safety, the day-long event will bring together over 80 employers, service providers, and community organizations to connect Angelenos who have previously been incarcerated or involved with the justice system to employment, housing, education, and wellness opportunities that open doors to lasting stability.
Calif. Gov. Newsom advances efficiency efforts, announces 5 new projects completed to make state government better
SACRAMENTO /CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE/ -- Today, Calif. Gov. Newsom’s California Breakthrough advisory group — a preeminent group of technology and corporate executives — met Tuesday with the Governor to present new solutions to help advance efficiency and stronger services in state government. Along with the meeting, the Governor also announced five new projects resulting from this effort. Through these projects and others, California is delivering measurable results across state operations — cutting costs and time, modernizing systems, and improving services for California residents.
Culver City to Launch Film Industry Support Package to Strengthen Local Production Economy in L.A. Area
CULVER CITY, Calif. /CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE/ -- As part of the Culver City’s continuing commitment to the film industry, this week the Culver City City Council approved a comprehensive set of measures designed to support recovery for film and television and enhance Culver City’s competitiveness as a premier filming destination. These actions aim to attract productions that will create local employment opportunities and support small businesses that benefit from on-location filming.
Golden State Pops Orchestra (GSPO) Announces its 2025 ‘Holiday POPS Spectacular’
REDONDO BEACH, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- The Golden State Pops Orchestra's beloved holiday tradition returns brighter than ever! The 2025 Holiday POPS Spectacular, led by Maestro Steven Allen Fox with Resident Choir Maestra Marya Basaraba and the Golden State Pops Orchestra and GSPO Chorale, once again brings cinematic sparkle and symphonic splendor to the holiday season.
A New Kind of Welcome: Hillcrest in La Verne Invites Older Adults to Try Its Wellness Lifestyle – Before Moving In
LA VERNE, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Hillcrest, one of Southern California's leading Continuing Care Retirement Communities, invites older adults to join a truly special health and wellness program. For a limited time, anyone who joins Hillcrest's Resident Registrant List will receive a complimentary one-year membership to the Hillcrest Aquatic and Fitness Center.
Lomita CA Begins Process of Taking Ownership of former US Navy Baseball Fields
LOMITA, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- The City of Lomita, California, has begun the process of taking ownership of approximately 6 acres of land, including...
Calif. Gov. Newsom announces appointments for 10.30.2025 including to Department of Human Resources
SACRAMENTO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- On Thursday, Calif. Governor Gavin Newsom announced the following appointments: First, Monica Erickson, of Folsom, has been appointed Director of the California Department of Human Resources. Erickson has been Chief Deputy Director of the California Department Human Resources since 2023.
Author Adir Biniamini Explores the Skills Behind Genuine Human Connection in New Self-help Book
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- In an age of constant digital interaction, many people feel less connected than ever. "The Art of Human Connection: Connecting, Solving, and Growing Insights for Professional and Personal Interaction" by Adir Biniamini (ISBN: 978-1779621962; Released June 2025 by Tellwell) addresses this challenge by offering readers practical tools for building stronger relationships, both personally and professionally.
California’s Ferret Ban Inherited in 1933 and Never Determined – Petition to Change in 2025
SAN DIEGO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- After nearly eight months of waiting for public records, Legalize Ferrets (LegalizeFerrets.org) has obtained internal California Fish and Game Commission documents confirming that California's ban on domestic ferrets was never based on scientific or administrative findings.
FICO Joins Non-profit CapitalW Collective as Corporate Development Partner
SAN DIEGO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- CapitalW Collective, a trailblazing non-profit dedicated to advancing women and their allies in mortgage capital markets, proudly announces FICO® (NYSE:FICO), as a Corporate Development Partner - CapitalW Collective's highest support tier. The partnership reinforces a shared mission to educate, elevate, and empower current and future leaders within mortgage.
California Safe Schools Marks 27 Years of Transformative Environmental Advocacy, Honors 2025 Heroes
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Since its founding in 1998, California Safe Schools (CSS) has been at the forefront of protecting children, educators, and communities from toxic exposures. Through tireless advocacy, innovative policies, and community engagement, CSS has led groundbreaking efforts to promote safer school environments, advance environmental justice, and ensure transparency in environmental health.
Newsjunkie’s Survey of World Archives Yields First-Ever Master Directory, Boosting Access to History and Science Data
LOS ANGELES, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Newsjunkie, the journalism site known for "Who's Behind the News" articles, announced today the release of Guide to Public Archives, the news industry's first comprehensive directory of historical, cultural, and scientific archives maintained for public access. The Guide is designed to serve researchers seeking information from the astonishing array of curated collections across the globe, some dating as far back as the 13th century.
‘Healing a Soldier’s Heart’ Documentary Premieres on PBS on Veterans Day Weekend 2025
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Seventeen U.S. veterans die by suicide every day, a number largely unchanged for over a decade. Yet today, on the 50th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War, there is a hopeful approach for treating combat-related PTSD. Moral injury is in clear focus in the documentary "Healing a Soldier's Heart," Cultural & Educational Media (CEM Productions), the production company for the film, announced today.
Culver City Art Walk & Roll Returns for 2025 celebrating local art, music, food, and culture
CULVER CITY, Calif. /CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE/ -- Culver City Art Walk & Roll Festival — a free community event celebrating local art, music, food, and culture - returns to Culver City Arts District on Saturday, October 18, 2025 | 11 AM – 6 PM. Now in its seventh year, this FREE Festival brings the streets to life with live art-making, artisan vendors, nonstop music, food trucks, beer gardens, and fun for all ages.
Top Colleges and Universities to Attend Vistamar School’s 17th Annual Multicultural Student College Fair in El Segundo
EL SEGUNDO, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- On October 19, 2025, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., Vistamar School hosts its 17th annual Multicultural Student College Fair at Vistamar School, 737 Hawaii Street in El Segundo. Open to all students, this College Admissions Fair is an opportunity for high school students to meet representatives and alumni from a wide range of top colleges, universities, and service academies from across the country.
Secured Signing unveils Realify to stop deepfake fraud during remote online notarizations and video signing sessions
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. /California Newswire/ -- Secured Signing, a leader in Digital Signatures and Remote Online Notarization (RON) technology, announced the launch of Realify, a new feature designed to protect businesses and their clients from the rising threat of deepfake fraud during remote online notarizations and video signing sessions.
Calif. Gov. Newsom signs bills curbing billionaire influence on elections and protecting against election interference
SACRAMENTO, Calif. /CALIFORNIA NEWSWIRE/ -- Today, Calif. Governor Gavin Newsom signed a pair of bills into law protecting elections — focusing on keeping dirty money out of California’s democracy and no “sweepstakes” from billionaires seeking to buy elections. Bills include: Senate Bill 42 (Umberg) and Senate Bill 398 (Umberg).
