Wednesday, August 31, 2011

8/31 Deacon Jones & Mike Haynes, Emergency Preperation, Larry Lipson, Ombra Restaurant

What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE:

Talking With Us Are Football Greats Deacon Jones & Mike Haynes Who Are Sharing With Us Their Stories Of Battling Prostate Cancer

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month… and both these NFL legends are sharing their experiences to bring awareness for this all too common disease. Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death and the most common non-skin cancer in men in the United States. It’s a disease that affects 1 in 6 men.

Prostate cancer is very common in men as they get older. Jones and Haynes have teamed up with The Know Your Stats campaign to encourage men to take charge of their prostate health, and to stay in the game for life. This campaign is supported by the NFL and the American Urological Association Foundation.

These Hall of Fame greats have both battled with prostate cancer and won. Now, they want to get the word out about the importance of men over 40 getting tested for prostate cancer. More than 240,000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2011!

Jones is a Pro Football Hall of Famer. He was named to the NFL’s 75th Year All Time Team in 1994. In 1999, he ranked number 13 on The Sporting News' list of the 100 Greatest Football Players. He’s the highest-ranked player to have played for the Rams franchise and the highest-ranked defensive end, and the second-ranked defensive lineman behind Bob Lilly. In 1999, Jones was named by Sports Illustrated as the "Defensive End of the Century" and awarded "The Order of the Leather Helmet" by the NFL Alumni Organization, their highest honor.

Haynes is an American former National Football League cornerback who played for the New England Patriots and the Los Angeles Raiders. He used his speed, quickness and range to become both a premier defensive back and an outstanding punt return specialist.

Briggs & Stratton's Marketing Manager Carissa Gingras Shares With Us How To Prepare Your Family For An Emergency

With September being National Preparedness Month a recent survey showed that the majority of American families are "NOT" prepared for a "DISASTER" We are honored to have Carrisa Gingras of Briggs Stratton speaking with us briefly regarding some emergency preparedness tips! Having an emergency-preparedness kit, along with an emergency family communication plan, are two "key" steps for families to take! You would be suprised how many families have "NO" communication plans at all!!!

What's Cookin' Today Hour TWO:

Traveling Time! The Great Larry Lipson Tells Us About His Latest Finds


Reporting from Costa Rica, CRN's international wine correspondent Larry Lipson will tell us about his latest Wine finds, including wines UNDER $10!Larry always has something cooking up at the Lipson Institute of Advanced Wine Studies! Larry forages all of Costa Rica for the absolute best wines. No region is spared from his intense search. No mountain or range or valley is safe from his reach. He leaves no grape unturned, this man of passion. Wine is his life. His love for wine is only paralleled with his love for his lovely parter in wine, Lillian Lipson.Be fully prepared for this master of vino as he shares his food and wine pairing techniques and experiences with you on this great day in America - and the world.

We're Talking With Chef-Owner of Ombra Michael Young About His New Restaurant and The Great Wines They Serve

The recently opened restaurant in Studio City by Chef-Owner Michael Young, most recently the Executive Chef of Domenico Ristorante in Silverlake, where he was given two stars by S. Irene Virbila. Michael has worked in many of the top Italian kitchens of Los Angeles including Valentino, Il Grano and Drago. Michael is directly responsible for the wine program and would be a great fit to promote an upcoming wine dinner or a segment on Italian wines for hearty fall cooking.

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Tuesday, August 30, 2011

8/30 Road Trip Tips, Morton's Steakhouse, Pizzeria Ortica

What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE:

Car Expert And Author Of "Lauren Fix's Guide To Loving Your Car!", Lauren Fix Is Here To Talk To Us About Tips and Advice for Our Holiday Weekend Roadtrip

For many people who have put off making travel plans for the holiday weekend, the road is calling. The road trip is to the three-day-weekend what the hot dog is to the barbecue. Your Labor Day simply wouldn’t be the same without it. And for last-minute planners, it’s one of the only options. This Labor Day weekend, millions of Americans will be hitting the road, traveling anywhere from a few miles to a friend’s backyard barbecue, to a couple hundred miles to the nearest coast or local landmark.

To avoid becoming the family stranded on the side of the road you always feel bad for as you speed by, you need some essential tips and tricks for a safe and economical trip. Lauren Fix, “the Car Coach®,” nationally recognized auto expert and award winning author of "Lauren Fix's Guide To Loving Your Car!," is available to help prepare your audience to get the most out of Labor Day travel.

Lauren is a nationally recognized automotive, lifestyle and travel expert and an authority on consumer issues such as family traveling, automotive car care and proper preparation to get the most out of traveling. She has appeared numerous times on Oprah, TODAY, The View, CNN, 20/20, Headlines News, MSNBC, The Early Show, The Weather Channel, ESPN, Discovery, Speed, Live with Regis & Kelly and National Public Radio.

What's Cookin' Today Hour TWO:

The Beverly Hills Morton's Steakhouse's Own Sommelier, Cameron Russell, Is Talking With Us About There Great Collection of Wines


Morton's The Steakhouse, Beverly Hills is located in the heart of the historic Beverly Hills "Restaurant Row," adjacent to the SLS Hotel, two blocks from the Beverly Center Mall, and just a mile away from the famed Sunset Strip and Rodeo Drive.

The newly renovated restaurant is a celebrity hot spot, and welcoming to both large and small groups from 10 to 190.

Come and join in on our broadcast on Tuesday night, August 30th at Morton's The Steakhouse, Beverly Hills.

Joining Us Is Justin Miller, the Executive Chef at Pizzeria Ortica, Who Is Sharing With Us Modern Twists On Italian Classics.

Pizzeria Ortica is located in Orange County, but Chef Miller makes the drive to Chino Farms to bring his guests the freshest seasonal produce available, while supporting local and sustainable farming. The result is a beautiful, market-inspired menu that truly celebrates the seasons.



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Monday, August 29, 2011

8/29 Great Meals From Your Pantry, MTV Dove Go Fresh DJ Jessica Who, Villagio Inn & Spa

What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE:

Cooking Channel's Kelsey Nixon Shares With Us How To Make Delicious And Unique Meals With The Food In Your Basic Pantry

Preparing new and exciting meals at home doesn’t have to include an extra trip to the grocery store. America’s pantries are filled with staples that can often serve double- or triple-duty as ingredients during mealtime preparation and special occasions, helping inspire creativity and unique recipes.

Kelsey Nixon started in the food media industry when she created Kelsey’s Kitchen, a college cooking show at her University. After graduating with a degree in Broadcast Journalism, she attended Le Cordon Bleu – Hollywood, earning her professional culinary arts degree. Kelsey’s passion for the essentials in the kitchen has taken her one step further and she now hosts her own show on Cooking Channel, Kelsey’s Essentials, where she inspires a new generation of food lovers with her own fresh take on essential cooking basics.

Fresh Off The Red Carpet From This Year’s MTV Video Music Awards, Dove® Go Fresh DJ, DJ Jessica Who, Shares Her Take On This Year's Best In Pop Culture

DJ Jessica Who loves talking about what is hot in music, style and pop culture and as a DJ, she constantly finds herself in different cities spotting and influencing the latest trends. Jessica will give listeners a unique front-row seat and inside-look from the red carpet at the MTV Video Music Awards with her personal picks for who and what is hot this season and how she stays fresh.

Reporting live from the red carpet at this year’s MTV Video Music Awards, DJ Jessica Who will share her insider knowledge on who was rocking the best style on the red carpet, the top fashion and beauty trends she saw, and who the top performers were inside Nokia Theater in Los Angeles.

Since this was her first time on the red carpet, she’ll also spill the details on what she wore and how she stayed fresh and calm in the spotlight. She’ll also share how she stays current with fashion and music trends and will let listeners in on what she thinks will be the next #1 hit.

To help women everywhere uncover what’s fresh and inspiring now, Jessica Who is working with Dove go fresh deodorant and MTV to launch the Dove Fresh Spin video series, where personal stories, style secrets, and music insights will be shared by three up-and-coming DJ’s - DJ Jessica Who (Miami), DJ Chelsea Leyland (New York) and DJ Diamond Kuts (Philadelphia).

Florida native DJ Jessica Who owns a commanding style and prides herself on sculpting high energy parties, as well as her ability to surprise the crowd with her eclectic music taste comprised of indie, hip hop, salsa, house, oldies, disco, funk and soul. She has been DJing for over seven years and currently holds a residency at LIV in Miami. Jessica has become a sought-after and trendsetting DJ—frequently spinning at fashion events and for celebrities such as Marc Jacobs and Katy Perry.

What's Cookin' Today Hour TWO:

Talking With Us Is David Shipman, Managing Director of Villagio Inn & Spa, Telling Us About How Villagio Was Just Named ToTravel +Leisure Magazine's “World's Best Awards 2011 Readers’ Survey”

Comprehensive survey results appear in this month's August 2011 issue of the magazine. A questionnaire developed by Travel+Leisure was made available to T+L readers. Magazine readers were asked to rate hotels and destinations spas on several characteristics. In the hotel category, respondents provided their feedback regarding rooms/facilities, location, service, restaurants/food and value. In the spa category, readers gave their input regarding ambiance, treatments, service and value.

Villagio Inn & Spa ranked #29 and Spa Villagio ranked #8. “This is the second time this year that Villagio Inn & Spa has received special recognition from the Travel+Leisure Magazine (In the January, 2011 issue, the hotel was named one of the “T+L’s 500 World’s Best Hotels Readers’ Survey),” says Villagio Inn & Spa Managing Director, David Shipman.

Lush Mediterranean-style gardens, fountains, and a flowing central watercourse set the tone of relaxed elegance, with cobbled pathways that meander through the two-story cluster-style village-like surrounds of the luxurious Villagio Inn & Spa. Spacious and airy, all guestrooms and suites feature private patios or balconies, fireplaces, oversize sunken bathtubs, in-room wine cellars, cozy robes, in-room tea, coffee and Espresso machines, and a bottle of premium chardonnay upon arrival. A lavish champagne breakfast buffet and afternoon tea service are included with every guest stay. Focal point of the hotel is Spa Villagio, one of Northern California’s premier luxury spa retreats, available to both hotel guests and day spa goers.

Architecturally engaging, Spa Villagio’s soothing fountains and serene reflecting pools lead along a limestone walkway to a grand entrance. Reminiscent of Early California design highlighting classic Mediterranean accents, including stone arched entryways and Spanish-style terra cotta clay tile roofs, Spa Villagio boasts a 13,000-square-foot-sanctuary with 16 treatment rooms and five unique sumptuously-designed private spa suites.

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Friday, August 26, 2011

8/26 The Parlour's Wine Tasting Event, DC Reboot, New Dishes At Caesars Palace, Malibu Family Wines, Steve Evans Movie Guy

What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE:

We're Going to Glendora, CA Where Cathleen Newman Will Tells Us About The Parlour Wine Bar & Bistro's "Best of the Best" Wine Tasting Event on Saturday, 8/27!

The Parlour Wine Bar & Bistro is the hottest new destination in the San Gabriel Valley to dine with wine. The menu is California eclectic, changes routinely & is best described as food that pairs perfectly with wine. The by the glass list features 30 whites & reds & imported beer. The Parlour also features a wine shoppe with over 250 wines all at competitive prices. Monthly 6 course wine dinners, with a focus on food & wines from various appellations.

Cathleen has over 6 years experience in business ownership and management. As a Glendora resident for nearly 20 years, she understands the needs and trends of the community. A love for food and wine is the driving behind The Parlour. "I am so excited to introduce The Parlour to the community, the food menu and wine menu are something Glendora hasn't seen before in this area, now everyone won't have to drive out of the city to get this quality of food and wine, I'm bringing it to you"

For more information about the The Parlour and Saturday's wine tasting event, go to http://www.theparlourwine.com/events/wine-tasting.asp!

Bestselling Comic Writer Geoff Johns & Legendary Artist Jim Lee Talk To Us About Working On The DC Comics Reboot "DC-Comics: The New 52"

From comic book legend DC Comics - which brought the world Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern and many others - comes DC COMICS-THE NEW 52. In just a few weeks, the entire line of DC Comics is being renumbered, including ACTION COMICS, DETECTIVE COMICS and BATWOMAN (to name only a few). New plot lines. New characters. Even new looks are in store for the World's Greatest Super Heroes.

Kicking off DC Comics-The New 52 will be JUSTICE LEAGUE #1, on sale August 31st. The series signals the first collaboration between the prolific creative team of Johns and Lee and explores the "dawn of the age of superheroes," a time before the Justice League became the World's Greatest Superheroes. In the series' premiere issue, witness the historic first meeting of Green Lantern and the Batman (hint: they don't get along!). This Justice League is younger, angrier, brasher and more modern. JUSTICE LEAGUE #1 also introduces Cyborg, who along with other major characters with diverse ethnic backgrounds such as Static Shock, Blue Beetle, Batwing (AKA the Batman of Africa), Firestorm, Mister Terrific, The Atom, and LGBT characters like Batwoman, Apollo, Midnighter and Voodoo, herald in a contemporary and more diverse DC Universe. Also with DC COMICS - THE NEW 52, DC Entertainment becomes the first major comic book publisher to release their entire line of ongoing titles in print and digitally on the same day. This September, be there for the historic launch of a new era of comic books. To learn more about DC Comics-The New 52 and Midnight Madness in New York City, join writer Geoff Johns and Co-Publisher of DC Entertainment Jim Lee for this extraordinary look at how the landscape of the comic book industry is changing ... FOREVER!

Geoff Johns is the Chief Creative Officer of DC Entertainment, a Co-Producer For The Green Lantern Film and the writer of many of DC Comics bestselling titles of the last five years, including Green Lantern, Blackest Night, Brightest Day, and the Flashpoint event.Jim Lee (born August 11, 1964) is a Korean American comic book artist and publisher. He is known for his stylized, detailed and dynamic style. Some have called his work bombastic, but he remains one of the more popular artists in American comics. Lee was born in Seoul, South Korea, but grew up in the United States. Lee attended Princeton University and majored in psychology with the intention of becoming a medical doctor and graduated in 1986, but decided to pursue a career in comic book illustration instead.

After inking one title (the book was Samurai Santa #1 and he only inked the cover) for a small, independent publisher, Lee found success at the largest North American comics publisher, Marvel Comics, as a penciller. His early Marvel work included Alpha Flight and Punisher War Journal. As well as being Co-Publisher of DC Comics, Jim Lee is best known for revitalising the X-Men for Marvel and co-founding Image Comics in the nineties, for his Batman work for DC in the nineties, and designed the DC Universe Online MMORG.

What's Cookin' Today Hour TWO:

Award-Winning Chef Micheal Richard Is Talking To Us About Bringing Signature Dishes To Central, Opening This September At Caesars Palace In Las Vegas

Next month, the world will be dining at Central Michel Richard at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, the first-ever round-the-clock restaurant to be helmed by a James Beard award-winning chef. For those familiar with his “American cuisine with a French accent,” they will be pleasantly surprised to know their favorite signature dishes will be offered at the new West Coast location.

Michel Richard exemplifies the art of cuisine and a love of his profession. Richard was a pioneer in French/California cuisine before moving to Washington, D.C., where Michel Richard Citronelle became his flagship restaurant. Richard's creativity can be seen in prestigious culinary publications such as Food & Wine, Food Arts and Bon Appétit. Chosen by the James Beard Foundation as Outstanding Chef 2007, Richard also won the James Beard Foundation Award for Outstanding Wine Service at Citronelle the same year and his second book, “Happy in the Kitchen” published by Artisan, won a James Beard Nomination. To rave reviews, and the 2008 James Beard Award for Best New Restaurant, he opened Central Michel Richard, which continues to be a highlight of the Washington, D.C. restaurant scene. Constantly engaged in something new, Michel, a modern French restaurant, opened at The Ritz-Carlton, Tysons Corner in fall 2010.

We're Talking With Tami Semler, Owner Of Luscious Malibu Family Wines, About What New At The Winery

The rich, fascinating history of Saddlerock Ranch began more than three centuries ago when the vast expanse of land surrounding the Santa Monica Mountains was part of the original Spanish Land Grant. The area of more than 200,000 acres was a perfect site for sheep and cattle, and up until the 1930's, was known as El Malibu.

Local caves are filled with ancient pictographs painted by the Chumash Indians, dating back to the Portola Expedition of 1769. The beautiful pictographs of this culture have become very rare due to erosion and weathering, but some of the most well preserved examples remain on the ranch and have been studied by archeologists and photographed for books on the subject.

Today, the Semler Family owns Saddlerock Ranch. Ronnie and Lisa Semler, along with their nine children, have lived on the ranch for over twenty-seven years.

Movie Guy Steve Evans Gives us the Movie Hits and Misses!
Steve Evans, the Movie Guy, is going to tell us what we need to run out and see and what we can avoid in the movie theaters, this week!

So, grab your popcorn, folks! Get your movie news and reviews right here on the What's Cookin' Today show! Steve “The Movie Guy” will take a look at what’s hot at the box office and the new films being released this weekend.


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Thursday, August 25, 2011

8/25 Food Network Chefs Pat & Gina Neely, Travelocity Hotel Deals, Music For Mental Health, Gary Poppins

What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE:

Food Network Celebrity Chefs Pat and Gina Neely Talk To Us About There Efforts To Fight Hunger In America With The "Huddle To Fight Hunger"

To help, Huddle to Fight Hunger, the largest hunger relief effort of its kind, is building upon Kraft Food’s nearly thirty year relationship with Feeding America, to help fight hunger in the United States. In 2010, the family of iconic brands donated more than 20 million meals to Feeding America through the program.

This year, kicking off with football season, the program is on a mission to help donate 25 million meals to Feeding America. Huddle to Fight Hunger combines three things Americans are passionate about – football, food and helping others. So, to reach the end zone, Kraft Foods has huddled with the American Youth Football organization, some of their iconic brands, retailers that sell them alongside football legend Joe Montana and celebrity chefs Pat and Gina Neely to champion the cause.

The campaign will culminate in San Francisco on December 31, 2011, with the second annual Kraft Fight Hunger Bowl, broadcast live on ESPN, featuring a team from the Pacific-12 Conference vs. Army. Americans can join the huddle by “liking” Kraft Fight Hunger on Facebook. For each new like, Kraft Foods will donate the monetary equivalent of one meal to a local Feeding America food bank.

As co-owners of Neely’s Bar-B-Que, Patrick (Pat) and Gina Neely (http://www.ginaandpat.com/) have turned their family restaurant into one of the most successful barbecue restaurants in the South. Now they share the secrets behind their favorite dishes and their passion for food, family and fun on Food Network’s Down Home with the Neelys.After its February 2008 premiere, Down Home with the Neelys became the highest-rated series debut in the five-year history of Food Network's "In the Kitchen" weekend block and continues to be a top ratings performer. Filmed in their Memphis home surrounded by family and friends, the show airs multiple times throughout the week on Food Network. In May 2009, the Neelys released their first cookbook, Down Home with the Neelys (Knopf, 2009), which quickly earned a place on the New York Times best-seller list. Their second book, The Neelys Celebration Cookbook: Down Home Meals for Every Occasion (Knopf), is due out in November 2011.

The couple will open their first New York City restaurant in May 2011, Neelys BBQ Parlor (http://www.neelysbbqparlor.com/). Patrick began working in the restaurant business at the age of 15, learning the art of barbecue from his uncle Jim Neely, who taught Patrick and his brother Tony the methods of slow cooking Southern barbecue using indirect heat. In February 1988, Pat and his three brothers (Gaelin, Tony and Mark) opened their first restaurant in downtown Memphis with just a few tables and chairs, one barbecue pit and $20,000 borrowed from their grandmother. Building on a reputation of hard work, great food and consistently good service, the Neelys now have two locations in Memphis and one in Nashville.

High school sweethearts in the 80s, Pat and Gina reunited at their 10-year high school reunion and were married in 1994. For years the two have learned to balance their roles in the family as well as in business. They reside in Memphis with their two daughters, Spenser and Shelbi. Gina manages the catering division of Neely’s Bar-B-Que, which has expanded to more than 25 percent of the restaurant’s total sales. She also oversees sales of all Neely’s products, including sauces, seasonings, shirts, hats and aprons. Before joining her husband in the family business, Gina served as branch manager at National Bank of Commerce in Memphis and was an events coordinator for The Carter Malone Group, a local public relations firm. Patrick is a board member of the Memphis Regional Chamber of Commerce, a member of the Shelby Farms Conservancy Board and the immediate past chairman of board for the Memphis Convention and Visitors Bureau.

In 2007, Patrick was named Restaurateur of the Year by the Memphis Restaurant Association.Gina is a member of the Memphis Restaurant Association, on the steering committee for The Women’s Empowerment Summit for the Memphis Housing Authority and on the PTSA of Cordova High School. She is also a member of The Dreamers Club for the National Civil Rights Museum and an active member at Cummings Street Missionary Baptist Church where she serves in the Hospitality and Greeters ministries.

Gina and Patrick support Memphis youth by sponsoring 25 children to attend NBA Memphis Grizzlies home games. They are longtime supporters of Melrose High School, Central High School athletics and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Basketball Tournament. The Neelys also hosted a second Food Network show in July 2008, Road Tasted with the Neelys, a cross-country search for specialty stores and family-run businesses that make hand-crafted, one-of-a-kind edibles. They have appeared on Food Network’s Paula’s Home Cooking; Paula’s Party; Road Tasted, hosted by Jamie and Bobby Deen; BBQ with Bobby Flay; and several Food Network holiday specials.

Talking With us Is Travelocity’s Editorial Director Genevieve Shaw Brown About Getting Last-Minute Hotel Deals For Labor Day Weekend

The Travelocity Pricing Barometer has analyzed hotel rates for the holiday weekend over the past four years to help travelers find the best time to book hotel rooms. Historically, the best hotel deals can be found one week before Labor Day weekend, with rates averaging $90 per night.

Brown serves as go-to resource for consumers who want to be in the know and has provided regular commentary on trends, tips and destinations with recent appearances on the Today Show, NBC Nightly News, MSNBC and CNN, as well as major local affiliates throughout the country.

What's Cookin' Today Hour TWO:

Director of Marketing Communications For The International Mental Health Research Organization, Brandon Staglin Is Telling Us All About The 17th Annual Staglin Family Vineyard Music Festival for Mental Health

The 17th Annual Staglin Family Vineyard Music Festival for Mental Health, sponsored by the International Mental Health Research Organization (IMHRO). The 2011 Music Festival features keynote Steven E. Hyman, MD, Provost, Harvard University and Professor of Neurobiology at Harvard Medical School, followed by a one-of-a-kind concert starring the incomparable Dionne Warwick and a special appearance by Congressman Patrick Kennedy of the One Mind Campaign, and award-winning actress of stage and screen Glenn Close of the Bring Change 2 Mind organization.

Mental illness is the leading cause of adult disability in the United States, costing our country over $350 billion annually and affecting over 50 million Americans. With 100 percent of the expenses underwritten by its sponsors, all proceeds go directly to scientific research and treatment programs, including those at UCSF, Stanford University, UCLA, University of Southern Florida, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, the Roskamp Institute studying Alzheimer’s plus Aldea, Inc. of Napa and Sonoma. In addition, IMHRO is a founder of Bring Change 2 Mind, the nation’s leading anti-stigma organization. To date, nearly $114 million has been raised through direct and leveraged funds.

Brandon Staglin is Director of Marketing Communications for both Staglin Family Vineyard and the International Mental Health Research Organization (IMHRO). Having overcome many challenges in his life, including the diagnosis of schizophrenia in 1990, Brandon's strength, intelligence and passion add a tremendous value to both organizations. Graduating from Dartmouth College in 1993 with degrees in Engineering Sciences and Anthropology, he began to pursue his childhood dream in aerospace engineering. Later, he made a career change and began working in website development.

Today, Brandon oversees the web design, content and development for both websites and writes a blog called "Healing the Mind: Stories from a Life with Schizophrenia". Several years ago Brandon married Nancy Abreu and the two live happily in Napa with their dog Cooper.

Gary Poppins Is Talking With Us About Great Tasting Popcorn

"I love popcorn! I always have, ever since I was a kid and my parents would take me to the movies every week. Sometimes I didn't even care what the movie was, as long as I got my
popcorn. I loved the crunch, and the melted butter mixing with the saltiness. So, that's where it began. But, of course, there's more. You see, my dad owned a bakery. So, I was always watching the bakers mixing the ingredients and experimenting with new recipes. I learned about quality and perfection - only the finest ingredients, no exceptions, perfectly blended and prepared. I guess it was only natural that I'd want to cook - to be a chef and create my own special recipes. So, it was off to culinary school to really learn about food. "

Then, I joined the CIA - that's the Culinary Institute of America - where I learned about pushing the limits and being the very best. I wanted to do something different, something unique. I'd stay up late every night developing concepts, with my ever present bowl of popcorn, fiddling with the kinds of corn, and adding cheese or caramel, or nuts or chocolate or... The perfect combination of what I'd learned and what I loved.

The best tasting popcorn that you could imagine. And flavors you hadn't thought of... Like cinnamon, or chocolate with peanut butter, or white cheddar jalapeno. Gourmet popcorn with a taste you just can't get anywhere else. And GARY POPPINS was born. I'm popping my gourmet popcorn right here in my hometown. And, you can count on the fact that I'm using only the finest, freshest, premium ingredients.

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Wednesday, August 24, 2011

8/24 Mom's The Word One Dinner, HGTV Host Vern Vip: HGTV Contest, Weekday Meal Planning, Larry Lipson, Hard Rock Cafe BBQ

What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE:

We're Talking With Dietician And Author of "Living Skinny in Fat Genes™", Dr. Felicia Stoler, About What Moms Really Deal With at Dinnertime

Every night, Mom faces dinnertime challenges only other moms can understand; from picky eaters to table manners to getting their kids to eat veggies. That’s why Ragú has launched “Mom’s the Word on Dinner,” an online community where moms can laugh, learn and share their stories about what really happens at dinnertime. Each month Dr. Michele Borba, Registered Dietician, Dr. Felicia Stoler and the Mom’s the Word on Dinner community join mom bloggers to discuss ways to tackle common – and some not so common – dinnertime dilemmas. Parents can join the conversation at Facebook.com/ragusauce. The program also features various videos, photos, polls and quick and easy dinner ideas. Dr. Felicia Stoler talks about ways to encourage kids to try new foods, finding inspiration for what to make for dinner and simple steps on spicing up your pasta meal!

Felicia has a double Masters in Science in Applied Physiology and Nutrition from Teachers' College - Columbia University, where she also completed her dietetic internship. She has her Doctorate in Clinical Nutrition from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of NJ. Felicia is author of the book Living Skinny in Fat Genes™: The Healthy Way to Lose Weight and Feel Great. She is a working mom who lives by example.

HGTV "Design Star" Host Vern Yip Is Here To Tells Us About A ChanceTo Win A Luxury High-Rise Condominium From HGTV

HGTV is taking its second annual HGTV Urban Oasis Giveaway to new heights, creating a custom, contemporary residence on the 35th floor of the Trump International Hotel & Tower® in Chicago. HGTV’s popular designer Vern Yip designed the 1,000-plus-square-foot residence that is the centerpiece of a grand-prize package to be awarded this fall. The fully-furnished, high-rise residence will include one bedroom, 1½ baths, a gourmet kitchen and extraordinary views of the city’s skyline, the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. Viewers can enter for a chance to win the HGTV Urban Oasis Giveaway once a day on HGTV.com as well as once a day on HGTV’s Frontdoor.com until Friday, October 7, 2011.

Design Star judge Vern Yip is an award-winning architectural and interior designer who gained national acclaim for his expertise in transforming homes and restaurants in his private design practice and on prime-time television. Vern runs his own design company in Atlanta, Vern Yip Designs, and vernyip.com, where design tips are dispensed with consumer value in mind. His creations and room transformations range in budget from frugal to eight-figure projects for high-end clients, including the design for a high-profile Oscar party in 2006. Vern, who describes himself as a classic overachiever, has garnered an impressive list of design awards, such as the 2003 Distinguished Southerner Award from Southern Living magazine; 2000 Southeast Designer of the Year; 1999 Best New Restaurant for Fusebox restaurant in Atlanta; and 1999 Best New Night Club for DeuxPlex Bistro and Night Club in Atlanta. In addition, he has been prominently featured in various publications such as Entertainment Weekly, the New York Times and USA Today. He is frequently seen on such television shows as Today, The Early Show, Oprah, CNN and Live! With Regis and Kelly. Vern continues to be involved in nonprofit efforts and has served as honorary chair for ‘Eleven – the Event,’ the 2009 fundraiser for The Ulman Cancer Fund, where he established the Vera Yip Memorial Scholarship in honor of his mother. He also works closely with UNICEF to help raise awareness of the needs of children around the world. Since 2009, he has designed the UNICEF snowflake ball in NewYork. In addition to the designing the organization’s 2011 ball, Vern also has been designated with the honor of lighting the UNICEF Snowflake that hangs above New York’s famed 5th Avenue.

Editor-In-Chief of Taste of Home Magazine Catherine Cassidy Shares With Us Quick And Inexpensive Ideas to Help Ease the Stress of Week Day Meal Planning

It’s no surprise that as the school year progresses, so do the daily challenges of everyday life. From activities and games, to lessons and jobs, all families are at their busiest during the school year. What's a busy parent to do? Editor-In-Chief of Taste of Home Magazine Catherine Cassidy comes to the rescue. She will provide helpful tips for quick, easy and delicious solutions that the whole family will enjoy.

Catherine M. Cassidy is Vice President/Editor-in-Chief of the Taste of Home Media Group (http://www.tasteofhome.com) and the main face of Taste of Home on TV, deftly demonstrating recipes from the magazines and cookbooks including “Good Morning America, “The Early Show,” and QVC. In her role as editor-in-chief, Catherine oversees the creation of all branded media, including Taste of Home, the number one cooking magazine in the world, and its web site, tasteofhome.com; special interest publications, direct response and retail cookbooks, including the best-selling Taste of Home Cookbook; and Taste of Home spin-off magazines Simple & Delicious and Healthy Cooking. She also oversees the Taste of Home Cooking Schools, which attract thousands to locations nationwide. Prior to joining Taste of Home, Catherine served as Editor-in-Chief of Prevention magazine and Prevention Special Interest Publications at Rodale, Inc. Catherine joined Rodale in 1986 as an associate editor in the book division, and was later named Executive Editor of Rodale’s Custom Publishing division. She started her career at Runner’s World and Fit magazines in Mountain View, California.

What's Cookin' Today Hour TWO:


Traveling Time! The Great Larry Lipson Tells Us About His Latest Finds


Reporting from Costa Rica, CRN's international wine correspondent Larry Lipson will tell us about his latest Wine finds, including wines UNDER $10!Larry always has something cooking up at the Lipson Institute of Advanced Wine Studies! Larry forages all of Costa Rica for the absolute best wines. No region is spared from his intense search. No mountain or range or valley is safe from his reach. He leaves no grape unturned, this man of passion. Wine is his life. His love for wine is only paralleled with his love for his lovely parter in wine, Lillian Lipson.Be fully prepared for this master of vino as he shares his food and wine pairing techniques and experiences with you on this great day in America - and the world.

“Hard Rockin’” Executive Chef For The Hard Rock Cafe Jason Gronlund Gives Us Recipes and Creative Twists for Your Labor Day BBQ

Music and food have served as inspiration ever since Oliver praised Food Glorious Food, Blondie encouraged us to Eat to the Beat, and Jimmy Buffet immortalized the grandfather of all Labor Day cuisines by celebrating the Cheeseburger…in Paradise. This Labor Day, turn up the tunes, and use music to inspire your most creative backyard BBQ to date.

Jason Gronlund is Executive Chef and Senior Director of Culinary Research & Development for Hard Rock International. Chef Gronlund has more than 25 years of restaurant industry experience with product and concept development, operations management on both national and international multi-platforms.


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Monday, August 22, 2011

8/23 Self Publishing, Morton's Steakhouse, Winemaker Ernie Loosen

What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE:

Author Patricia Ruth Tells Us How to "Self Publish" Our Own Books

The New York Times reported that “According to a recent survey, 81 percent of people feel that they have a book in them…and should write it.” If you do the math, that represents over 200 million people in the U.S. who want to write a book in their lifetime! No wonder self-publishing is thriving as never before!

Author Patricia Ruth offers some tips and personal insights from writing press releases, to speaking at book clubs and arranging book signings.

A self-published author, Patricia has recently published and is marketing her debut novel “Holly Heights,” and is finishing her second novel. Patricia is co-owner of Broadcast Direct Communications, Inc. a broadcast PR firm that arranges interviews on TV, radio, and the internet for authors, celebrities, industry experts and business leaders. Patricia has an MBA in Marketing from St. John’s University and has worked as an executive in marketing at ABC and NBC. She is a member of the Renaissance Writers, a local writers’ group in her home town.

What's Cookin' Today Hour TWO:

We're Talking with Chris Garrison, General Manager of Morton's Steakhouse in Beverly Hills, About Our Upcoming Live Broadcast on Tuesday, August 30th!

Morton's The Steakhouse, Beverly Hills is located in the heart of the historic Beverly Hills "Restaurant Row," adjacent to the SLS Hotel, two blocks from the Beverly Center Mall, and just a mile away from the famed Sunset Strip and Rodeo Drive.

The newly renovated restaurant is a celebrity hot spot, and welcoming to both large and small groups from 10 to 190.

Come and join in on our broadcast on Tuesday night, August 30th at Morton's The Steakhouse, Beverly Hills.

We're Talking with Ernie Loosen, Winemaker and Owner of Loosen Bros.

Ernst Loosen is a German winemaker and owner of the wine producer Weingut Dr. Loosen, located just outside Bernkastel in the Mosel wineregion. With over 70,000 annual bottle production, he is one of the larger producers in the Mosel region. He is particularly known for the quality of his Rieslings, having won "Riesling of the Year" in 1989 as awarded by the German wine trade magazine Feinschmecker. In 2001, Gault-Millau named Ernst Loosen as the German winemaker of the year, and in 2005, Ernst Loosen was selected as Decanter's "Man of the Year"

The Dr. Loosen estate has been in the same family for over 200 years. When Ernst Loosen assumed ownership in 1988, he realized that with ungrafted vines averaging 60 years old in some of Germany’s best-rated vineyards, he had the raw materials to create stunningly intense, world-class wines. To achieve this, Ernst dramatically restricts crop size, prohibits chemical fertilization, insists on very strict fruit selection, and employs gentle cellar practices that allow the wine to develop its full potential with a minimum of handli
ng.

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Friday, August 19, 2011

08/22 Skin Care, Healthy Kids Back-to-School Guide, Hog In The Fog

What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE:

Dr. Lori Brightman Of Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York, Tells Us About New Breakthroughs In Facial Rejuvenation And Body Contouring

Dr. Lori Brightman, who has appeared on Good Morning America, CBS Early Show, Today available to talk about the growing trend of people opting for non-surgical cosmetic treatments. This due to new groundbreaking technologies in novel categories in facial rejuvenation and body contouring. A part of the increase and appeal with people can be attributed to affordability and non laser type treatments that now are good for all skin types whereas in the past people with darker skin couldn’t take advantage of such treatments. So, with all of this, it’s not just for celebrities to take advantage of anymore (although plenty continue to do so like Jennifer Aniston and Kim Kardashian). Dr. Brightman talks about this trend, the technologies, why people are opting for it and who is right for it; what celebrities are taking advantage of what treatments if this is of interest.

Dr. Brightman regularly lectures nationally and publishes widely about advances in cutaneous oncology, laser surgery and cosmetic dermatology. Her current research involves the use of laser and light devices in the treatment of medical and cosmetic conditions. Her service to the community includes lectures and skin cancer screenings for many community based programs as well as major corporations. Dr. Brightman is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, American Society for Lasers in Medicine & Surgery, American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, and the American Medical Association.

Health and Nutrition Expert Sharon Liao Shares With Us Her Healthy Kids Back-to-School Guide To Give Our Kids A Good Start For The Day

Sharon Liao, Nationally Recognized Health and Nutrition Expert It’s no surprise that parents and kids are feeling the pressure to get ready for school. There are school supplies to be bought, first-day outfits to be chosen, and fears to be calmed. However, that's not the end of the back-to-school list. A great start to the school year also means the healthiest start possible. Therefore, it is imperative that parents take certain steps to promote healthy behaviors, improve nutrition and encourage healthy habits. So whether your child is a toddler or a teen, award-winning health and nutritional expert, Sharon Liao, is available for live interviews to share the latest information in health and nutrition, and will provide tips on how to maintain your child’s health and nutritional needs throughout the school year.

Sharon Liao is an awarding wining national health and nutrition expert. Recently, she served as senior health and nutrition editor for Shape magazine. She edited and wrote many of the magazine’s health and nutrition pages, including various features and the Eat Right, Live Healthy, and Weight Loss Workbook columns. Her stories have won National Health Information Awards and a Gold Eddie Award for their consumer health reporting. Prior to joining Shape in 2006, Liao served as an associate editor at Prevention magazine. She has also been on staff at Fitness and Reader’s Digest magazines.Liao has many television and radio appearances to her credit, including health, nutrition, home, and relationship segments on NBC’s Today Show, ABC’s Eyewitness News, GMA Now, and WPIX11 Morning News.

What's Cookin' Today Hour TWO:

We're Out of The Studio Today Broadcasting From The 16th Annual Hog In The Fog Event At Inspiration Vineyards

Mike and Paul share with you the highlights of the 16th Annual Russian River Valley Winegrowers Grape to Glass event called Hog in the Fog. Mike and Paul will be joined by special guest hosts Larry Van Aalst and Inspiration Vineyards Jon Phillips. Stew Lauterbach from Lauterbach Cellars will stop by to discuss the event and all the happenings in the wine country.

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Thursday, August 18, 2011

8/19 La La Land & Brett Chapin, FunnyForMoney.com, Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, Broadcasting Legend Ross Porter, Movie Guy Steve Evans

What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE:

Brett Chapin, CRN Radio HostDiscusses LA LA Land Radio Show

Brett Chapin grew up in Laguna Beach Ca. His interest in the arts was sparked at a young age after seeing the film version of West Side Story. He began his training at the age of 9 at Sparks Theatre and continued as a teenager at the Laguna Playhouse, graduating with honors and receiving a full scholarship to their highly respected conservatory and repertory programs. He went on to work in several productions there including his first Equity show. He then relocated to Santa Barbara where he had a chance to continue his training, performing in both regional musical theatre and film.

After a short trip back to Orange County for an extended production, he relocated to Los Angeles in 2001. He has continued to work consistently, racking up 8 major Theatrical productions over the last 3 years. He recently performed as Paul in the West Coast premiere of The Good Negro at the Stella Adler Theatre and as C.C. Showers in The Diviners. He is the current Director of Marketing at Theatre Palisades and the co-host of a new show on the Cable Radio Network, LA LA Land with Brett and Netahly.

FunnyForMoney.com Co-Founders and Hosts, Ari Ecker and Joe Yakacki, Tells Us About Their Show That Rewards Good Punchlines With Cash

"Funnyformoney.com,” the hot new online comedy contest, has named Ari Ecker and Joe Yakacki, Northeastern college buddies, as co-hosts. The young comedy duo not only introduce the contestants and the punchlines, but also add their own brand of slapstick style and zany antics to keep the laughter flowing. While the two guys met as students at Northeastern University, Yakacki previously served an internship on “The Drew Carey Show.” Ecker meanwhile performed as standup comic and briefly caught the attention of a Nickelodeon talent agency. Each week a list of "Funny For Money" Top 10 comedy topics is posted on the Funnyformoney.com website. The winning contestant and punchline from the previous week's contest is also revealed. "Funnyformoney.com" punchline contestants receive $100 for each of the 10 winning topic jokes and a $500 prize for the Punchline of the Week. In the coming months there will be a grand prize of $10,000 for the Best Punchline of the Month.

Since Joe "The Face" Yakacki was born, he has been cursed with great good looks and those devastating baby blues. The nurse who took him to his first crib left her card in his diaper. His first recognition came at the Pitter Patter Preschool, when he was voted "Most Likely To Break Hearts". As one would expect, Joe is also an extraordinary athlete. It all started when he struck out 13 batters in his first T-Ball game. Because he developed into a pitcher with pinpoint control, Joe is feared by all concessionaires at local carnivals. To this day, Joe can hit Ari in the head with a bean bag from anywhere in the studio. Now Joe is returning to showbiz. His career started by landing an internship on The Drew Carey Show. Without any prior experience, Joe’s talents were immediately recognized and was named "Head Wiper," in charge of cleaning Carey’s glasses. It sounds like a cushy job, but Drew was a closet lens-ophiliac. Joe finally had to quit over artistic spritzing differences.

Ari is a former teenage stand up comic who made it as far as auditioning for a Nickelodeon talent agency. He was not picked up. Devastated by this rejection, he spent most of his adolescence fighting an Oreo addiction. He is now proud to say he is down to two sleeves a day. Ari has been doing karate since he was a toddler. He now has a black belt, but only because it has never been washed in 23 years. When Ari was 13, he entered a cottage cheese eating contest to impress Mindy Lipschitz. It didn’t work, but he discovered he had a severe case of lactose intolerance. After years of personal rejection, Ari bought an airline ticket to a singles retreat in Peoria. Because of a typing error he ended up in Peking. Making the best of it, Ari spent a year using the stairs of the Great Wall of China to train for the International Slinky Champion-ships in Singapore. He ended up coming in 634th but once again Ari found the silver lining in the experience by realizing he was also allergic to MSG. Ari met Joe at Northeastern University and immediately became a huge annoyance in Joe's life. This still remains true today. After leaving school, Ari worked for the Durham Bulls and Joe for Babytobee.com. Ecker was the Multimedia Coordinator and Yakacki was in charge of online advertising. Because of their vast life experiences, they are both now perfectly qualified to become the hosts of “Funnyformoney.com news.” That’s why they co-founded “Funnyformoney.com” and they hope they will never have to have a real job ever again.

What's Cookin' Today Hour TWO:

We're Talking With Nic Waller European Marketing Director For Concours About The 2011 PEBBLE BEACH CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE

Once each year, on the third Sunday in August, about 200 of the most prized collector cars and motorcycles in the world roll onto what is often called the best finishing hole in golf — the famed eighteenth fairway at Pebble Beach. Tire meets turf and transformation occurs: the stage is set for one of the most competitive events in the automotive world. The occasion is the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

Originally a small social event paired with a road race through the pine and cypress forests of Pebble Beach, the Pebble Beach Concours has grown into the top-ranking collector car show in the world. People from all over the globe come to compete in or simply enjoy the event here at Pebble Beach.

Along with the classic car competion, one of the most unique accomplishments in the history of racing will be celebrated, when John Surtees travels from England to attend the 61st Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. The only man to win world championships in both motorcycle racing and in Formula 1, will be reunited with two of his championship rides.

While in California, Surtees will participate in a number of Pebble Beach Concours activities, including the pre-event news conference the morning of Saturday, Aug. 20 The son of an English motorcycle dealer and British sidecar racing champion, Surtees’ first racing experience came at age 14 in his father’s sidecar. The Surtees team won that first race, but was disqualified when John was found to be underage. He began racing motorcycles a year later, moving up the ranks until in 1955, at age 21, he accepted his first factory-sponsored ride aboard a Norton motorcycle. He performed well, even defeating Geoff Duke, the reigning world champion, at Silverstone and Brands Hatch. From 1956 to 1960, Surtees raced 350 cc and 500 cc motorcycles for famed Italian manufacturer MV Agusta, winning seven class world championships in that span. In 1958 and 1959, Surtees won every Motorcycle Grand Prix event he entered in 350 cc and 500 cc classes. He posted 12 straight Grand Prix wins in the 350 class during that time, and from 1958 to 60, he won 17 consecutive Grand Prix events in the 500 cc class. It was during this time that Surtees began test driving automobiles and was hired by Team Lotus for the final four races of the 1960 Formula 1 season despite his relative lack of experience in auto racing. “My biggest challenge was I had never seen a car race until I took part in my first car race,” said Surtees, now 77. “By the time I’d done four races total I was driving Formula One. I was a bit green. It all came from the heart.” In 1962 he helped to develop the first Lola Formula 1 car. “I was always able to work with the engineers very well on the development of the cars,” he said. “A car or a piece of machinery has to be able to talk to you, in the way it conveys what it’s all doing, and you’ve got to be able to analyze this. In those days of course, we didn’t have all this electronic gadgetry, telemetry and everything else to be able to look at everything happening out there. It depended on the stopwatch, temperatures of tires and that one important thing – the driver’s feedback.” By 1963, Enzo Ferrari hired Surtees for the Scuderia Ferrari team when he notched his first F1 race win at the German Grand Prix at the famous Nürburgring circuit. He finished fourth in the F1 points standings that season. Then, in 1964, behind the wheel of a V8-powered Ferrari 158.

We're Joined By Legendary Sports Broadcaster, Ross Porter, Who's Telling Us About Joining The IBN Sports Team And His New Position As A Play-By-Play Announcer

IBN Sports announced today Ross Porter will be joining the network as both a play-by-play announcer and studio host. iBN is one of the most innovative digital sports networks in a changing media landscape, but when it comes to telling the stories of sports heroes and rising stars they know it’s best to rely on the proven skills of industry veterans. Having established a network of high quality sportscasters across the country, the network now adds Ross Porter as a strategic partner for play-by-play work as well as production and distribution of his already popular “Real Sports Heroes.” The veteran broadcaster, known for his 28 years with the Los Angeles Dodgers broadcast team and for his work with UNLV had this to say, “I have been blessed with a remarkable career. I now have the exciting opportunity to call high school and college football and basketball games in a truly unique format. Online distribution of this content is exploding and I am thrilled to be working on the forefront with iBN on play-by-play as well as studio programming including my ‘Real Sports Heroes’ feature.”

Ross Porter is a two time Emmy award winning announcer, ranked as one of the top 60 baseball announcers of all time, and a member of the Southern California Broadcasters Hall of Fame. Known for announcing games for the Los Angeles Dodgers and UNLV, Ross also announced NFL games on NBC-TV for seven seasons. Ross started his broadcasting career at age 14 in his hometown of Shawnee, OK announcing high school football, high school basketball and minor league baseball.

iBN Sports is an online broadcast network featuring live sports action and video on demand (VoD). In addition to game day coverage, the network produces original content featuring sports news, highlights and entertainment programming for underserved sports markets across the globe. Currently, the top tier sports categories at iBN Sports include: high school sports, mixed martial arts (MMA), professional baseball, collegiate and club basketball. Content is streamed online at www.ibnsports.com and distributed through a growing alliance of global media partners.

Movie Guy Steve Evans Gives us the Movie Hits and Misses!
Steve Evans, the Movie Guy, is going to tell us what we need to run out and see and what we can avoid in the movie theaters, this week!

So, grab your popcorn, folks! Get your movie news and reviews right here on the What's Cookin' Today show! Steve “The Movie Guy” will take a look at what’s hot at the box office and the new films being released this weekend.


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Wednesday, August 17, 2011

8/18 Music And Playtime, American Ninja Warrior Host Mike Iseman, Larry Manetti

What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE:

Parenting Expert And Child Therapist Kimberley Blaine Talks To Us About Music With Playtime Making Kids Happier

Pump up the jam! Parents love to find new and educational ways to play with their children. A new survey reveals that music can be a powerful motivator; in fact, listening to music during playtime makes children happier, sillier and more excited. Findings also showed that 76% of parents surveyed reported that after they play with their child, they feel more connected and rocking out made them more relaxed. Additionally, 1/3 of children will play longer when music is coupled with play. Parenting expert and child therapist, Kimberly Clayton Blaine is available to discuss the results of this survey with your listeners, as well as share tips on making the most of playtime.

Known as “The Go-To Mom”, Kimberly says finding time for play is easier than you think, so throw out the notion that you need a lot of time and just do it. The great thing about playing with music is that songs are typically broken into 3 to 5 minute segments, making it possible to play a few fun activities in just 10 minutes. She also says to make the time silly. Studies show that laughter is key to positive parenting, helping families have fun and come closer together. Music provides a great backdrop for kids to use their imagination and feel inspired and energized. The busy mother of two also suggests making the time more meaningful with age-appropriate activities, such as learning colors and letters or promoting hand-eye coordination with building. Another tip, change the scenery. To keep playtime from getting stale, mix it up and try something new. Take advantage of summer months by bringing toys and activities outside.

We're Talking With Matt Iseman,Host Of G4 & NBC's "American Ninja Warrior" About The Shows Season Finale

The finale airs on NBC on August 22. In the season finale of G4’s “American Ninja Warrior,” the competitors head to Mt. Midoriyama, Japan with the hopes of becoming the first American to complete the world’s most challenging obstacle course. The two-hour NBC primetime special will be hosted by Matt Iseman (Host of Versus’ “Sports Soup”) and MMA Fighter and Belator Fighting Championship commentator Jimmy Smith, with Alison Haislip (“Attack of the Show,” NBC’s “The Voice”) reporting.

Matt Iseman (Host of Versus’ “Sports Soup”) and MMA Fighter and Belator Fighting Championship commentator Jimmy Smith will return as co-hosts along with G4’s own Alison Haislip (“Attack of the Show,” NBC’s “The Voice”) providing reports from the grueling tryouts and main event in Japan.

What's Cookin' Today Hour TWO:

We're Talking with Actor and CRN Radio Host Larry Manetti

Larry Manetti started acting in his hometown of Chicago. After studying acting with the Ted List Theater Players, Larry drove to Los Angeles in 1972. Larry landed an agent and was sent to Universal Studios to audition for an opening as a contract player. Luck was on his side. Jack Webb was casting a new series for NBC called The Chase. Larry played a young detective.

After attending acting school at Sal Dano's at night and doing bit parts by day, he scored. Baa Baa Black Sheep was being produced and cast at Universal, and the now famous writer Stephen J. Cannell was the executive producer and the role was a natural for Larry. He was cast as a cocky, hot shot pilot named Bobby Boyle. The show was a big hit for NBC but was cancelled within two years.

Because the network was so impressed with Larry's on-screen presence, they cast him in a new series called The Duke. The Duke was cancelled in one year. Larry was back to playing whatever Universal told him to.

Hoping to catch lighting in a jar, along came Magnum, P.I. and the role of Rick. This was his elevator...the show became a mega-hit for 8 years. Since Magnum, P.I., Larry has done co-starring roles in 25 feature films and guest starred on many hot TV shows.
Larry is the author of a book titled Aloha Magnum.


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8/17 Executive Producer of Batman Michael Uslan, Children's Eye-Care, Wine Bargains, "Love In The Wild:" Host Darren McMullen

What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE:

Executive Producer Michael Uslan Talks With Us About The Ups And Downs of Trying to Make The Batman Franchise

He has generated $2.6 billion in worldwide box office grosses, countless millions in toy and merchandise sales and survived not one, but two battles with a homicidal maniac. What’s more, he’s not done yet. Batman is one of the world’s most dependable film properties, with even the worst entry in the franchise’s history still charting $238 million in receipts.

As the trailer for the next installment of the franchise, The Dark Knight Rises, debuts online and with the release of the blockbuster Harry Potter film conclusion, millions have already started the countdown until next July when the new film opens. But if it weren’t for the perseverance of one man who toiled nearly 10 years to make the franchise’s first entry in 1989, it would not have happened at all.

Michael Uslan is the executive producer, along with his partner Benjamin Melnicker, of the Batman franchise of motion pictures. In his 33 years in the film and television business, he has been involved with such projects as National Treasure, Constantine, and countless animated projects. His projects have won Oscars®, Golden Globes® and Emmy® Awards. He recently formed an independent film development and production firm called The Uslan Company (www.theuslancompany.com)

We're Talking To Dr. Christopher Vargas About Children's Eye Health And Reading

80 percent of what a child learns is through vision. Yet, according to the American Public Health Association, 25 percent of children in grades K-6 have visual problems that are serious enough to impede learning. Healthy vision is critical for children’s performance inside the classroom and in everyday life, which is why scheduling an eye exam in addition to all of the other health and wellness checkups your family gets each year is so important.

Dr. Christopher Vargas is a board certified and therapeutic licensed optometrist who runs a family-based practice in Anaheim, Ca. He is currently a member of the Orange county Optometric Society, American Optometric Association, and California Optometric Association. Most recently, he is a candidate to become a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry. Throughout his professional career, Dr. Vargas has welcomed a diverse patient base and is one of a handful of optometrists in the country who speaks Spanish fluently. You can find him routinely at health fairs, school screenings, local service clubs and church events volunteering his time and efforts for the betterment of the community. It is his mission to give back to the community that has given him so much.

What's Cookin' Today Hour TWO:

Traveling Time! The Great Larry Lipson Tells Us About His Latest Finds


Reporting from Costa Rica, CRN's international wine correspondent Larry Lipson will tell us about his latest Wine finds, including wines UNDER $10!Larry always has something cooking up at the Lipson Institute of Advanced Wine Studies! Larry forages all of Costa Rica for the absolute best wines. No region is spared from his intense search. No mountain or range or valley is safe from his reach. He leaves no grape unturned, this man of passion. Wine is his life. His love for wine is only paralleled with his love for his lovely parter in wine, Lillian Lipson.Be fully prepared for this master of vino as he shares his food and wine pairing techniques and experiences with you on this great day in America - and the world.

Darren McMullen Host NBC's "Love in the Wild" Stops By To Tell Us About The Season Finale

With seven adventures under their belts, the final two couples face their last journey together, an overnight quest that will test their endurance, strength, resolve, and more importantly, their relationship. In the end, one couple will remain revealing if they had the ultimate journey of finding love in the wild. Hosted by Darren McMullen and produced by Endemol USA. "Love in the Wild airs Wednesdays at 10 PM on NBC.

Darren McMullen possesses a knack for making people laugh, as well as for entertaining audiences and cozying up to some of the biggest names in the industry. He has hosted numerous high-profile television shows, and his on-screen efforts have redefined the traditional host role.

Scottish-born McMullen began his career in front of the camera as host of “Ignition,” a monthly car show in Sydney, Australia. He went on to host “Exclusive” from Australia’s Arena TV, an entertainment news show, where he showed he could dive into the action -- ranging from crashing the stage at Eskimo Joe's “Homebake” performance to getting arrested at a Robbie Williams concert. McMullen even turned the crowd on Johnny Knoxville at his own premiere -- dressed as Jean Pierre, one of his alter egos.

In addition to hosting “Love in the Wild,” McMullen currently hosts Australia’s version of “Minute to Win It.”

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