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Big Wedding Announcement from The Salem Conference Center!

Wednesday, December 28th, 2011

The holidays are here which are traditionally about family, friends, celebrating, food, gifts….and getting engaged! Statistics have shown that December is by far the most popular month for marriage proposals. If you were among the thousands of couples to get engaged over the holidays, let us say congratulations!

We also know that weddings can cost as much as a new car (and then some) so we are giving brides-to-be a break and making our wedding packages more affordable if you book your big day any time between May-August 2012.

When you book a Salem Conference Wedding Package for May-August 2012, you get a 20% discount when you use the code WED2012. Make sure you take advantage of this offer before Valentines Day! This discount code will expire on February 13.

The Salem Conference Center Wedding Package includes

  • Ballroom Rental
  • Setup & Clean Up
  • Tables & Chairs
  • Table Linens & Glass Centerpieces
  • China, Silver & Glassware
  • Buffet Lines (if requested)
  • Dance Floor
  • Cake Cutting & Service
  • Wireless Microphone
  • Staging & Head Table (if requested)
  • Guest Book & Gift Tables
  • Portable Banquet Bars
  • Dedicated Banquet Staff to Service Event
  • Complimentary Champagne Toast for Bride & Groom
  • Experienced Special Events Coordinator

If a 20% savings isn’t enough, enter our drawing to win: A Salem Conference Center wedding package for 1/2 the price (this is a savings of over $1500). This prize includes:

  • 1/2 off a Salem Conference Center Wedding Package (includes what is listed above)
  • Complimentary Night in a Jacuzzi Suite at The Grand Hotel in Salem
  • Gift of Champagne & Chocolate Strawberries in Suite upon Arrival
  • Dinner for two at Bentley’s Grill

Enter to win the Salem Conference Center Wedding Package for Half the Price contest before February 13. The winner will be announced on Valentines Day. Winner is subject to all terms and contest rules.

Featured Bentley’s Grill Holiday Cocktail Recipe: Santa’s S’more

Tuesday, December 13th, 2011

The Bentley’s Grill Lounge Bar is known for their creative and seasonal cocktail creations.  As a matter of fact, we have been voted Most Creative Cocktails in Willamette Valley for two years in a row!

Bar Manager (and social media guru) Soraida Cross was recently asked by The Statesman Journal to share the recipe to one of her signature seasonal concoctions that can easily be made at home.

This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings and will spread some holiday cheer!  Happy Holidays and enjoy the recipe!

Bentley’s Grill Santa’s S’more

1 oz Smirnoff Fluffed Marshmallow Vodka
½ oz Godiva Chocolate Liqueur
½ oz Frangelico Hazelnut Liqueur
6 oz Hot Chocolate
Rim glass with graham cracker crust, Marshmallow sprinkles optional.

Drop by our lounge bar for daily happy hour specials after 4pm.  Each week we host Lounge Lizard Monday, Tuesdays Tinis and Wednesday Ladies Night.  Like us on Facebook to see our weekly drink and appetizer specials.

What’s Happening on The Block?

Wednesday, November 30th, 2011

As we head into the 2011 holiday season, this is the perfect time to reflect on the exceptional and generous community that we are proud to be a part of.  This month, The Salem Block team interacted with hundreds of people from all over our state dedicated to spirit of service. We were honored to serve these outstanding organizations that are dedicated to building our community.

Here are just a few highlights of the events at “The Salem Block” this month:

  • 2011 Civic Engagement Conference: It was exciting to see so many Oregonians come to The Salem Conference Center earlier this month eager to learn more about volunteerism and civic engagement.  This event was presented by Oregon Volunteers!
  • 2011 Habitat for Humanity annual HopeBuilder Breakfast: Hundreds of people in our community came out to learn more about Habitat for Humanity when they hosted their annual HopeBuilder Breakfast here at The Salem Conference Center on November 8, 2011. All money raised during the event will help build more homes for families in need in our community.
  • 2011 Civil War Dinner & Auction: On Thursday November 17, Ducks and Beavers Fans came out in full force when The Boys and Girls Club of Marion County hosted their annual fundraiser, 2011 Civil War Dinner & Auction at the Salem Conference Center. The Salem Block  was proud to be supporting sponsors of this event which raised funds to support local clubs, athletics, and outreach programs!
  • Healthy Living & Gluten Free Expo: We were happy to welcome the particpants in the first annual Healthy Living & Gluten Free Expo on November 26, 2011. The expo featured a vendor fair and educational workshops taught by experts (including US Olympianon Amy Begley) to provide info on gluten free lifestyle.

Holiday Package Specials! The Grand Hotel in Salem is offering special rates on out of town guests here for the holidays (or anyone looking to get away) Reserve The Grand Hotel in Salem Holiday Package anytime between December 18th through December 30, 2011 and receive a rate of $119 plus tax per night in a King or Double Queen Deluxe. Stay 2 or more nights and pay only $109.50 plus tax per night. This includes the always complimentary Hot Breakfast Buffet, Free WiFi, Free Covered Parking, Indoor pool and Jacuzzi, Fitness center, exceptional service all in our convenient downtown location.  Visit grandhotelsalem.com to make your reservations or call 877-540-7800.

Best Wines to Go With Your Thanksgiving Meal

Thursday, November 17th, 2011

Bentley’s Grill Wine Steward Mark Jacklich has begun his work on the Master Sommelier program this year. He plans to continue his studies with the Court of Master Sommeliers through 2012 and to spend a lot of time working with Jim Bernau’s team at Willamette Valley Vineyards to receive some training on the process from grapes to wine full circle. Mark is eager to share his knowledge with you in a new series of posts: Wine Notes with Mark. Enjoy!

When paring wines for a grand meal such as Thanksgiving dinner there are a few things to take into account. While there is no perfect answer on what wine to choose there are a few guidelines to stick by that can keep your paring smooth with less friction.

More recently Sparkling wine has been a go-to for Thanksgiving . The crisp taste and palate refreshing bubbles keep you in the game without smothering the foods we know and love. If you are able to get your hands on some Sparkling Rose it might just make your dinner one to remember.

If bubbles are not your thing the ever versatile food friendly Oregon Pinot Noir might be right up your alley. With its typical light to mid-bodied mouth feel, fruit forward flavors, and soft tannins, this wine will compliment everything on the table. well maybe not your Aunties green bean casserole.

For those who like a bigger wine a good Syrah or a Zinfindel is a good choice.  The full bodied flavors and spice will compliment your stuffing, gravy and turkey (especially smoked).

For the white wine lovers a Riesling or Sauviginon Blanc will do nicely. With a Riesling you can go dry or super sweet and still find success with the array of foods with their sweet and salty flavors. Sauvignon Blanc also pairs well with its crisp acidity and minerality.

If you saved room for dessert a nice Port or a late harvest Riesling will hit the spot. These two wines pair amazing with pumpkin and most other kinds of pies. The sweetness and rich flavors can bring your dessert experience to new heights.

No matter which wines you choose, I hope you all enjoy a wonderfully happy Thanksgiving!

The Salem Block “His Hers and Ours Package” to Support The Boys & Girls Club at 2011 Civil War Dinner & Auction

Thursday, November 10th, 2011

How does a basket full of whiskey from around the world, vodka for the ladies, a private party, salon services, products, overnight mini vacations in luxurious hotels (with lots of perks) sound to you? Fabulous right?

It can be yours. The Salem Block His Hers and Ours Package (valued at $3,012)  is one of the big ticket items to bid on at the 2011 Civil War Dinner & Auction November 17 at The Salem Conference Center!

Want to know the best part? It all goes to The Boys & Girls Club of Salem, Marion & Polk Counties which serves approximately 10,500 youth in local clubs, athletics, and outreach programs!  The Salem Conference Center, Bentley’s Grill and The Grand Hotel in Salem (aka “The Salem Block”) have joined other local businesses and organizations as a supporting sponsor.

We wanted to do our part to support this outstanding organization, we pulled together a really big package.  Just look at what is included in the”His Hers and Ours Package” :

HIS: Whiskeys From Around the World Basket

  • Box of fine cigars from AVVA Cigars
  • 18 holes of Golf for (2) people with Golf Cart at Salem Golf Club
  • A collection of fine whiskeys including George Dickel, Bullet Bourbon, Crown Royal Black, Johnny Walker Black, Glenmorangie, Ardbeg, Blackbush

HERS: Vodka Basket

  • A private party for (10) in the Marion Room of the Grand Hotel in Salem with hosted hors d’oeuvres.
  • Instruction by bartender extraordinaire Soraida Cross who will teach everyone to make (3) of Bentley’s
  • signature drinks. Package includes a souvenir martini glass!
  • Pamper yourself with a $200 Gift Certificate to B. Suite Studio Salon & $50 basket of salon hair products.
  • A variety of vodkas including Ketel One, Ketel One Citroen, Belvedere, Smirnoff Marshmallow, Godiva, Ciroc Red, Smirnoff Whipped Cream, Belvedere Unfiltered

OURS:

  • Overnight stay in a Petite Suite at the Benson Hotel in Portland & (2) Tickets to the Portland Spirit
  • Overnight stay in a Jacuzzi Suite at the Grand Hotel in Salem & $100 Gift Card to Bentley’s Grill
  • Overnight stay in a Deluxe Jacuzzi Suite at the Grand Hotel Bridgeport & $25.00 Bridgeport Village Gift Card (for shopping or dinner)
  • Magnum Bottle of Wine

So whether you are a Duck or Beaver, wear your colors with pride and support your team while enjoying a wonderful evening full of surprises! For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.civilwarauction.org or call 503.581.7383 Ext 15

Salem Block is Supporting Sponsor of the Civil War Dinner & Auction November 17!

Wednesday, October 26th, 2011

The Salem Conference Center, Bentley’s Grill and The Grand Hotel in Salem is proud to be a Supporting Sponsor of the eighth annual Bonaventure Senior Living Civil War Dinner & Auction at the Salem Conference Center November 17, 2011.

The event benefits the support after-school and summer activities at Boys & Girls Club of Salem, Marion & Polk Counties. This outstanding organization plays a vital role in our community by promoting academic success, healthy lifestyles, character and leadership skills to approximately 10,500 youth in local clubs, athletics, and outreach programs.

So are you a Duck or a Beaver? Wear your colors with pride and support your team at this exclusive dinner and auction! This is the perfect way to get pumped up for the 2011 Civil War Game on Saturday November 26 at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, OR.

Here is a preview of the fabulous items that will be auctioned off this year

  • Bandon Dunes Golf Trip for 2
  • Dinner for 10 at the Alcyone
  • 7 days, 6 nights in Kona HI
  • 4 Day, 3 night golf trip to Palm Springs
  • Super Bowl Party for 50 at Jonathan’s Restaurant
  • Behind the Scenes of NASCAR in Las Vegas
  • Civil War Game Tickets
  • Variety of Oregon Golf Packages
  • Duck and Beaver memorabilia and merchandise

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.civilwarauction.org or call 503.581.7383 Ext 15

What’s Happening on The Salem Block?

Friday, October 21st, 2011

Fall has been a very busy season for Bentley’s Grill, The Grand Hotel Salem, and The Salem Conference Center- aka The Salem Block- with so many wonderful events, conferences, fundraisers, and reunions!

Recently, we were honored by The Salem Area Chamber of Commerce at the 2011 Business of the Year Awards; and we enjoyed watching the wild ride of Soraida Cross and Kristi Reed, aka Bentley’s Grill Girls, as they won the 2011 Grape Stomp at Willamette Valley Vineyards and went on to compete in the Sonoma County Harvest Fair World Championship Grape Stomp in Santa Rosa, California.

We also welcomed the Oregon Artists Series’ 5th Annual Exhibit, “Sculpture Now!” in The Salem Conference Center plaza and is open to the public through 2013!

Other highlights: The Bravo! Willamette Valley Event Showcase brought together some of the area’s top businesses in the event industry, in one afternoon! Family Building Blocks had record breaking attendance (more than 800 people!) at the 11th Annual Dream Builders Luncheon on October 20, 2011 to learn more about their work with high-risk children and families. Both events were held at The Salem Conference Center.

Be sure to visit The Salem Conference Center and The Grand Hotel at Salem on Facebook to see all upcoming events and get more info on what’s happening on The Salem Block. Here are a few other events happening in the coming weeks (visit www.salemconferencecenter.org for a complete list of events coming up)!

Though October 31- Game Fest at Bentley’s Grill
Join us this month for our Annual Wild Game Festival. Our specials this month will feature Wild Game appetizers, salads and entrees created by Chef Derek Ridgway. All specials will be paired with exceptional wine selections by our Wine Steward Mark Jacklich.

October 29: Willamette Humane Society Presents Bowser’s Boo Bash
This Halloween themed fundraiser will be held at The Salem Conference Center on Saturday October 29, 2011. This event is presented by Capitol Subaru and is Willamette Humane Society’s signature event benefiting the animals! Guests don their favorite costumes and enjoy a gourmet meal, drinks, live music, and the opportunity to bid on hundreds of items and one-of-a-kind experiences during the silent and live auctions.

November 5: Salem Area Chamber of Commerce Presents Evening d’Elegance
This annual black tie gala and fundraiser will be held at the Salem Conference Center on Saturday, November 5th, 2011 from 6-11:45pm. This years theme is “The Art of Salem” and celebrates the arts in our community. The event features dinner, dancing, hundreds of fabulous items for bid in the silent auction, a live auction featuring 12 large packages, and a multi-media rock show like nothing you’ve ever seen from DesignBand (back by popular demand)!

November 17: Civil War Dinner & Auction to Benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Salem, Marion & Polk Counties We are proud to be a Supporting Sponsor of the eighth annual Bonaventure Senior Living Civil War Dinner & Auction at the Salem Conference Center November 17, 2011. This event benefits the support after-school and summer activities at Boys & Girls Club of Salem, Marion & Polk Counties.

November 23-28: The Grand Hotel in Salem Thanksgiving Weekend Harvest Celebration 2011 Package
The Grand Hotel in Salem invites you to enjoy the 2011 Thanksgiving Weekend Harvest Celebration in “Grand style”. Special rates are available that weekend as 150+ wineries in the area open their doors to kick off the winter wine tasting season.

We feel lucky to be a part of such an active community and look forward to serving you!

They WON! Salem Block Team Named Oregon Grape Stomp Champions!

Monday, September 26th, 2011

Bentley’s Grill Girls —Kristi Reed and Soraida Cross Win 2011 Grape Stomp at Willamette Valley Vineyards!

Kristi Reed Ready to Compete! Photo Credit: Jen Skoy

We reported earlier this month that our very own Soraida Cross from Bentley’s Grill and Kristi Reed from The Grand Hotel in Salem would represent the Salem Block at the 21st Annual Oregon Grape Stomp Competition at Willamette Valley Vineyards last Friday for the special “Business Day”…..But little did we know of the hidden talents Soraida and Kristi have as a grape stomper and swabber!

The pair performed so well during Friday’s business competition, they were invited back by Jim Bernau, founder and president of Willamette Valley Vineyards, to participate in the actual competion September 23-24…and THEY WON!

Yes, you read it correctly- Soraida Cross and Kristi Reed are the 2011 Oregon Grape Stomp Champions and will be moving on to compete in the Sonoma County Harvest Fair World Championship Grape Stomp in Santa Rosa, California this weekend!

Teams of two (one stomper & one swabby) compete in the hope of being named the world’s greatest grape stomp team. The Stomper (Kristi) stands in a barrel full of grapes, and squishes out the juice using only feet. The Swabby (Soraida) stands below the barrel and keeps the juice flowing into the jug, pulling grape skins away from the screen, and pushing juice toward the pipe.

Read all about it! Grape stomp champs: Bentley’s Grill Girls

Soraida Cross at the 2011 Oregon Grape Stomp Photo Credit: Jen Skoy


Willamette Valley Vineyards 2011 Grape Stomp- Photo Credit: WVV


The Oregon Grape Stomp Championship and Harvest Celebration

Thursday, September 15th, 2011

To celebrate the 2011 harvest, Bentley’s Grill will be participating in the 21st Annual Oregon Grape Stomp Competition at Willamette Valley Vineyards September 24-25th.

Chef Derek and his team are creating delicious fare for participants to enjoy.  On the menu: Dungeness & King Crab Cake, Pulled Pork Sandwich, Italian Provisions Baguette, Draper Valley Farms Chicken Salad Sandwich, Thai Chicken Salad, Salmon Caesar Salad and more.

Download a Preview of the Grape Stomp 2011 Menu Here. Please note menu selections are subject to change based on availability.

The Salem Block will be represented this year by our very own Soraida Cross from Bentley’s Grill and Kristi Reed from The Grand Hotel in Salem! The pair will work together on Friday September 23 for the special “Business Day” Oregon Grape Stomp Championship as a stomper and swabber and compete against other local businesses.  Wish them luck!

Admission to this event is $10 and includes a free Riedel wine glass and tasting. Additional $10 per team to stomp. The team who produces the most juice wins a trip for two to compete in the World Grape Stomping Championship in Santa Rosa, California.  This is a popular event and WVV suggests making reservations in advance. For info, call 1-800-344-9463 or visit Willamette Valley Vineyards online.

Teams compete in The Oregon Grape Stomp Championship and Harvest Celebration. Photo Credit: Willamette Valley Vineyards

Bentley’s Grill to Sponsor “Pairings – A Celebration of Oregon Wine, Cuisine & Music”

Thursday, July 28th, 2011

We are proud to join The Grand Hotel Salem and Hart of the Garden to sponsor Pairings - A Celebration of Oregon Wine, Cuisine & Music at the Oregon State Fair on Friday August 26, 2011.

This  event features pairings of Oregon’s finest wines with cuisine from Oregon’s Top chefs.

Patrick Lamb will perform a musical tribute to Ray Charles, featuring an ensemble of Oregon’s best talent! Where else can you go and hear great music and get all the wine sampling and food you can eat and drink… and get admission into the State Fair!

So come on out and join us! Pairings – A Celebration of Oregon Wine, Cuisine & Music will be held in the beautiful Hart of the Garden at the Oregon State Fairgrounds. Tickets are $50.00 and include Fair admission; Cuisine prepared by outstanding Oregon Chefs; Tastings from fabulous Oregon Wineries; Musical Entertainment, Commemorative wine glass. Visit oregonstatefair.ticketforce.com to purchase your tickets.