What's Cookin' Today on CRN: June 2014

Monday, June 30, 2014

6/30 JENNIFER JOLLY, CHEF AIDA MOLLENKAMP

CONSUMER TECH JOURNALIST JENNIFER JOLLY - “HOTTEST LIFE HACKS TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SUMMER"

Consumer Tech Journalist, Jennifer Jolly, Debunks the Myths and Shares Fun, Useful Tips for Making the Most of Your Technology.

Ah those lazy days of summer... time for sun, fun and selfies. Consumer tech journalist, Jennifer Jolly, wants to help everyone make the most of their summer; from finding your lost car in a parking lot to taking the perfect summer selfie, she’s got some fun and useful life hack tech tips that could really save you this summer!

Some Life Hack Tech Tips Jennifer will demonstrate include:

Lost in a parking lot at the beach? Hold your car remote under your chin to amplify your car’s remote’s signal. It really works
Cell phone battery dying and you can’t get to a charger? Turn off your Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, dim your screen and disable location services to extend some precious minutes.
Heading to a party, the pool or your backyard and want to pump up the music from your Smartphone? Use a ceramic bowl and a cloth to amplify sounds and cut back on reverb
To take the perfect summer selfie by using your ear buds without reaching
Transform your Hoodie into a fun, relaxed boho-chic summer laptop case for easy transport to the beach, backyard, party or pool
Ride the wave of summer sales by surfing in the right places to accumulate points and redeem for gift cards, magazine subscriptions, or even free gasoline for your car for the simple searches you do online every day.

Jennifer Jolly: Emmy award-winning consumer tech journalist, Jennifer Jolly, is your BFF for advice on all those digital doodads, techy tools, and cyber services that are supposed to make your life easier, more organized, and just plain better. Jennifer hosts two digital lifestyle series; TechNow for USA Today and Tech’s Appeal, The Girlfriend’s Guide to Gadgets. Both series provide a no-geek-speak go-to for your wired world, giving you the how-to and what-for in a way you can totally understand.

www.bing.com
www.jenniferjolly.com

CELEB CHEF AIDA MOLLENKAMP - ENTERTAINING TIPS ON HOW TO GET CREATIVE IN THE KITCHEN

With a diverse culinary background and a passion for sharing her knowledge with food enthusiasts, cooking expert Aida Mollenkamp prepares delicious dishes while providing answers to questions submitted by Food Network viewers in her interactive cooking show, Ask Aida. From recipe and ingredient issues to advice on kitchen machinery and tools, Aida even offers guidance for impromptu parties, feeding a crowd, make-ahead dishes, and time-saving tips.

Growing up with an Italian-American mother and a French stepmother, Aida was always surrounded by good food. Eventually, she made her way into the kitchen and discovered her true passion for cooking. In the years since, Aida has worked everywhere from a gourmet deli and California Pizza Kitchen to the Hotel Bel Air and, most recently, at CHOW.com.

Having studied Hospitality Management at Cornell University's School of Hotel Administration, Aida worked at Ernst & Young in Hotel and Restaurant Consulting before traveling to Europe to attend culinary school at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu Paris. She lived between Florence, Italy and Paris, France for two years, and graduated with a Grand Diplôme in 2004.

In January 2005, Aida joined the editorial staff at San Francisco-based CHOW.com, a Web site created for food and drink enthusiasts. As the Food Editor, Aida fulfills many roles. She regularly appears in instructional videos for the site, serves as an expert spokesperson, runs the test kitchen, works as a lead food stylist, develops recipes, and writes informative articles.

When not working, Aida continues to live the life of a food fiend, whether hunting out the hottest restaurants, searching for the newest artisanal products, or hosting her friends and family at laidback dinner parties and lively cocktail hours. She currently resides in San Francisco.

Friday, June 27, 2014

6/27 CHEF GEORGE DURAN, JORDAN REID, STEVE EVANS

CHEF GEORGE DURAN - “UPSCALE BBQ” AND GRILLING TIPS FOR THE SUMMER/JULY 4TH

Go kosher with Hebrew National Hot Dogs for higher quality meats when grilling this summer!

George Duran is an international chef and entertainer. Author of Take This Dish and Twist it, known for his Food Network show Ham on the Street and most recently host of TLC’s Ultimate Cake Off. He’s appeared as guests on the Dr. Oz Show, NBC Today Show, CBS This Morning, The Wendy Williams Show, The Nate Berkus Show and many others.

Born and raised by Armenian parents in Caracas, Venezuela, George’s diverse background helped him succeed at NYU as the host of the award winning radio talk show, HYE Time Radio. Post college, Duran continued to follow his Radio Muse, working as an on-air personality for comedy segments at WPLJ-FM in New York. By 2000, Duran told his Radio Muse he’d like to “take a break” and after hosting on the Latin music television station HTV he moved to Paris, France to study French cuisine at the Ecole Superieure de Cuisine Francaise, Groupe Ferrandi. Six months into his studies created and hosted in French a culinary show called Pop Cuisine on France’s Cuisine TV network. His unpretentious, quirky culinary style was a hit—garnering Pop Cuisine a nomination for a 7 d’Or (French Emmy) for Best Cable Show.

In 2005, Duran returned to New York, taking his career as a TV Chef to the next level—creating and hosting Food Network’s popular Ham on the Street. The program showcased George’s keen interviewing and culinary skills—and determined once and for all that you can’t fry a fudge-cicle.

In February 2007, Duran expanded his presence on Food Network, hosting The Secret Life of…, a light hearted exploration of the history of the foods we love.

In October, 2008, George’s first book, Take This Dish and Twist It hit bookstore shelves. As colorful and funny as the chef himself, Duran’s book is packed with highly useful tips revealing his delectably unexpected take on comfort food. During this period, Duran partnered up with the number 1 Hispanic cookware company, IMUSA as its spokesperson and shortly afterwards with Hunt’s Tomatoes. The enormous success of both campaigns resulted in the expansion of George’s role with both companies including all ConAgra products on a national and Hispanic stage. Most recently he has hosted on HSN for kitchenware products by IMUSA and T-fal.

In 2010 George was asked to join TLC’s prime time line-up by hosting Ultimate Cake Off where the nation’s top cake artists compete against each other to build the ultimate cake. Duran’s interests lie in French, Armenian and South American cuisines as well as cinematography and video editing. He currently lives in Long Island City, NY.

www.georgeduran.com
www.hebrewnational.com

JORDAN REID - BLOGGER, AUTHOR AND LIFESTYLE EXPERT - HOW TO ‘STINK PROOF’ YOUR HOME AND BOOST THE POSITIVE SUMMER SMELLS

We are well on our way to the heat and humidity of summer. As the temperatures are rising, we are spending more time outside and bringing in both the good and bad outdoor odors, such as the barbecue, sweat and garden, indoors with us. Scent Specialist, (or a Scent Sommelier), Jordan Reid will tell us how to ‘stink proof’ our home and boost the positive summer smells.

New Snuggle Scent Boosters™ infuse your laundry with a long-lasting scent and freshness that give a boost to your laundry routine and lingers in your folded clothes for weeks. They are available in two scents – Lavender Joy and Blue Iris Bliss™ – that infuse your clothes with a long-lasting scent that gives a delightful boost to your laundry routine and lingers in your folded clothes for weeks. Using Snuggle Scent Boosters™ is easy – there’s no mess, measuring or spills! Just toss a single pac in the washer drum before adding laundry, add detergent and Snuggle® liquid fabric softener as you normally would and wash clothes per care instructions. They dissolve completely in all water temperatures. Snuggle Scent Boosters are available in the laundry aisle at retailers nationwide. To learn more about Snuggle Scent Boosters, visit www.snuggle.com.

Jordan Reid grew up in New York City, studied cognitive neuroscience at Harvard University, and worked as an actress for over a decade before turning her focus to her true passions – fashion, beauty, entertaining, home décor, and DIY – by creating the lifestyle website Ramshackle Glam.

Reid has been called “a star of the post-expertise how-to landscape” by The New York Observer, and Ramshackle Glam (www.ramshackleglam.com) has been deemed a “survival guide for those who don’t have a clue how to be domestic” by the Daily Beast. In a feature on Ramshackle Glam, Time Magazine wrote, "Of all the changes wrought by social media, few underscore the reach of the individual like the rise of Reid."

Set-up: Creating a happy, energized home during the warmer months starts with tapping into your senses – particularly the sense of smell – can also boost the mood throughout your home. Get the most out of your home in the laundry room and beyond with these fun, simple and creative tips from author, blogger and lifestyle expert Jordan Reid of Ramshackle Glam.

www.snuggle.com
www.ramshackleglam.com

STEVE EVANS - "THE MOVIE GUY"

GREAT MOVIES OPENING THIS WEEKEND AND BOX OFFICE PREDICTIONS AND HOPES. FIND OUT WHAT MOVIES ARE WORTH YOUR HARD EARNED MONEY. GET SET FOR THE WEEKEND.

Thursday, June 26, 2014

6/26 JOHN JORDAN, JORDAN WINERY, BBQ PITMASTERS, TUFFY STONE, MOE CASON

JOHN JORDAN – CEO, JORDAN WINERY

Born in Colorado in May 1972—the same day his parents, Tom and Sally Jordan, signed the deed on their first Alexander Valley property and established Jordan—John Jordan has served as Chief Executive Officer of the winery since October 2005.

The Jordan family permanently moved from Colorado to California in 1979 to live on the winery estate. John attended grade school in Healdsburg and spent many nights and weekends fishing at the winery’s lake. An interest in airplanes arrived during preparatory school, and John earned his Private Pilot Certificate in Sonoma County at age 17. Before leaving home for college, John attained his Commercial Pilot Certificate with Instrument and Multi-Engine Ratings, and type ratings in Gulfstream and Citation aircraft.

John studied economics in college, then attended law school. He is a 1995 graduate of Occidental College in Los Angeles and a 2002 graduate of Empire College School of Law in Santa Rosa, Calif. During college, he continued to feed his passion for flying and received his Airline Transport Pilot License at age 23 (minimum age requirement). While studying law, John also attended graduate school and received a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of San Francisco in 2002. He also served in the military reserves in his twenties and thirties.

After passing the California Bar Examination in December 2002, John joined the Santa Rosa-based law firm where he’d worked as a clerk in college, then opened his own private firm in Sonoma County in 2004. In 2005, John stepped away from his thriving law practice to oversee day-to-day operations of the family winery. John moved back to the property in 2006, then built a home overlooking the lake where he grew up fishing.

With a commitment to preserving the foundation on which his parents successfully built the Jordan brand–elegant, balanced wines and exceptional hospitality—John has utilized his business acumen and philosophy to reenergize the winery. He has built upon Jordan’s brand equity by fostering a culture of excellence where passionate, knowledgeable people are encouraged to perfect their respective crafts every day. From energy-efficient roofs, solar arrays and water recycling to fruit sourcing, extended bottle aging, soil-mapping studies, iPad integration and the overall hospitality experience, John has elevated the winery’s relentless commitment to quality in every aspect of the business.

In 2010, John co-founded a technology company that specializes in digital wine list solutions for restaurants. He also created the John Jordan Foundation in 2012—a private, charitable foundation focused on income stability and educational attainment, which funds projects in elementary schools for literacy and technology, as well as micro-loan programs for low-income families to launch small businesses.

When not running the winery or traveling the country to champion Jordan wines, John enjoys flying his Piper Cub and fishing for bass on Jordan lake. He also serves as a professor at the Empire College School of Law, and speaks German and Russian. He shares his hillside home with Labradors he adopted from a local shelter.

WWW.JORDANWINERY.COM

BBQ PIT MASTERS, TUFFY STONE AND MOE CASON OFFER TIPS AND RECIPES TO REV UP YOUR SUMMER GRILLING MENU

With grilling season in full swing and the 4th of July (the most popular grilling holiday) around the corner, BBQers across the nation are looking to rev up their menus for summertime grilling.

BBQ Pitmasters Tuffy Stone and Moe Cason are passionate about making simple and authentic barbecue that not only win competitions, but is also perfect for everyday backyard grilling and tailgating. Their mouthwatering recipes are full of sweet, savory and spicy flavors, guaranteed to bring your tailgate or backyard BBQ straight to the winner’s circle.

Visit ReadySetRibs.com and vote for your favorite Pitmaster’s tip or recipe for a chance to win hot grilling prizes, like a private cooking lesson with Tuffy Stone, Walmart gift cards or a new grill.

Tuffy Stone and Moe Cason both competed on Destination America’s reality competition program “BBQ Pitmasters” and are now judges on the show. Stone, a classically trained French chef and former Marine, got his nickname “The Professor” due to his obsession over the physics and science of wood, smoke, spices and molecular composition of meat to create barbeque perfection. He founded his BBQ team “Cool Smoke” in 2004. Cason, a Navy Veteran who served in Desert Shield and Desert Storm, is a self-taught Pitmaster. What was initially a hobby is now a way of life. His team, “Ponderosa BBQ,” which is also the name of his restaurant, has been competing since 2006. Stone and Cason have competed in hundreds of BBQ competitions and have racked up an impressive amount of awards, winning championships on a local and national level.

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

6/25 LARRY LIPSON, PEGGY TROTT, INN AT LAGUNA BEACH

LARRY LIPSON - WINE REPORT FROM FLORIDA

For fifty years Larry Lipson was the food critic for the Los Angeles Daily News and now reports from Costa Rica weekly with his thoughts and favorite picks for Food & Wine. His lovely Wife Lillian is also on hand at the Lipson Institute for advanced wine studies.

PEGGY TROTT - INN AT LAGUNA BEACH

A Southern California boutique escape for business and pleasure designed for an intimate and relaxed getaway. This Laguna Beach, CA hotel features 70 thoughtfully appointed accommodations, including spacious village and ocean front guest rooms. Poised atop a bluff near Heisler Park and overlooking the famous Main Beach, Laguna Village and Pacific Ocean, the view is unparalleled and the main attractions are within walking distance. Known as a premier American art colony, Laguna Beach offers a creative culture with an abundance of Zagat and Gayot rated restaurants, unique shopping boutiques, world-renowned art galleries and the annual Pageant of the Masters. For those seeking a business retreat, the Inn offers executive and ocean front meeting facilities for small groups of 2-40. Local catering cuisine and planning services are available.

The Inn is within walking distance of 40 diverse restaurants offering an excellent variety of cuisine, including Mediterranean, Italian, Traditional American, Contemporary American and much more.

www.innatlagunabeach.com

Tuesday, June 24, 2014

6/24 FELIPE STAHLSCHMIDT, ALAMOS®, JOSEPH K. POON, 53RD SUNLAND-TUJUNGA LIONS CLUB WATERMELON FESTIVAL

FELIPE STAHLSCHMIDT - WINEMAKER, ALAMOS®

Alamos® Winemaker Felipe Stahlschmidt finds inspiration for his wines by climbing the snow-covered peaks of the Andes Mountains and gazing at the majestic vineyards that have made Argentina famous in the world of wine.

An avid mountaineer, Felipe has climbed Aconcagua, the highest peak in the western and southern hemispheres, no less than seven times.

Felipe believes that great wine represents the terruño of the vineyard. For him, Alamos wines, exuberant and full of character, are a beautiful expression of what nature and humans can create when they work in harmony. Felipe also works to create quality wines that are affordable and pair well with food, handcrafting each Alamos varietal using techniques typically reserved for wines at a much higher price point. The result is a flavorful collection of quality wines at an extraordinary value.

After graduating from the prestigious Universidad Nacional de Cuyo in Mendoza with a winemaking degree in 2003, Felipe joined Alamos as an assistant winemaker in 2006. Today, he oversees winemaking for all Alamos wines.

WWW.ALAMOSWINES.COM

CHEF JOSEPH K. POON - 53RD SUNLAND-TUJUNGA LIONS CLUB WATERMELON FESTIVAL - JULY 19 & JULY 20

The 53rd Sunland-Tujunga Lions Club Watermelon Festival is pleased to announce the exciting headliners and main stage line-up, special guests and new attractions for their 2014 event. The festivities will be held, July 19 and July 20 on the infield of Santa Anita Park. The venue is located at 285 West Huntington Drive, Arcadia, California, 91007. Infield entrance and Gate #6 is located off Colorado Place. Festival hours are Saturday from 10:00am to 9:00pm and Sunday from 10:00am to 8:00pm. Tickets are $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for children, $8.00 for seniors and active military personnel, children under two are free. Parking is $4.00. Every admission includes free watermelon slices, a free spin on the Watermelon Wheel for additional prizes, and children's admission includes a free pass to the petting farm or zoo. For additional information please visit www.lionswatermelonfestival.com or call 1-800-955-1277.

The Watermelon Pavilion will have hourly carving and cooking demonstrations. Chef Poon will again be carving his whimsical and easy creations, along with culinary students. At 5:00pm daily, a Watermelon Carving Competition will be held. Celebrity Judges for Saturday include Watermelon Carver Jim Morey, who will also be doing demonstrations and Celebrity Chef Hiep Thi Le who has appeared on Food Network's "Chopped." Sunday's celebrities include Lisa Loring who portrayed 'Wednesday' on the original "Addams Family" television show. Festival goers will also have a chance to bid on the fantastic carvings and take one home as a souvenir in our daily raffles.

New Attractions for this year are pony rides, a petting farm, a zoo, the Euro Bungee and Bubble Rollers. The Trompers of Eagle Rock's vintage car club will also have muscle cars and hot rods on display...and you can also discover the world of the Rolling Robots, not to mention that Lucky and Winnie, the Santa Anita Race Track Mascots will be available for photo ops too.

www.josephpoon.com
lionswatermelonfestival.com

Monday, June 23, 2014

6/23 JOSEY BAKER, JOSEY BAKER BREAD, SALLY JAMES, AUSTRALIAN TRUFFLES

JOSEY BAKER – AUTHOR OF JOSEY BAKER BREAD

This is the first true entry-level bread-baking cookbook, from Josey Baker (that's his real name!), a former science teacher turned San Francisco baking sensation. Josey Baker Bread combines step-by-step lessons with more than 100 photographs, offering easy-to-follow guidance for aspiring bakers. Recipes start with the basic formula for making bread— requiring little more than flour, water, time, and a pan—and build in depth and detail as the user progresses to more complex loaves, including Josey's cult favorite Dark Mountain Rye. With chapters dedicated to pizza, pocketbreads, and treats, Josey's playful, encouraging tone makes for a fun read full of great advice for bakers of all levels.

SALLY JAMES - AUTHOR, FOOD & WINE CONSULTANT & AUSTRALIAN FOOD & WINE AMBASSADOR - AUSTRALIAN TRUFFLES

The Truffle & Wine Co. is the largest producer of Superior Perigord Truffles in the world. The Truffle & Wine Co. is one of the few Truffières in the world where you can participate in the excitement of a guided truffle hunt and you can discover how we locate the rare and wondrous black truffle.

Freshly harvested Superior Perigord Truffles from Manjimup. Perfect for your next culinary adventure. Our truffles are destined for fine dining restaurants in Australia including Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney and Adelaide as well as being shipped around the world.

We produce Superior Perigord truffles, which are known the world over as a rare and expensive gourmet delicacy. Whilst it is true that truffles are rare, they are not as expensive as we are lead to believe. Truffles do not need to be purchased by the kilo, and you generally only require around 10grams of truffle per person per dish, making them a perfectly affordable delicacy.

TRUFFLEANDWINE.COM.AU

Friday, June 20, 2014

6/20 LARRY THE CABLE GUY, SHELLEY KEKUNA, KAANAPALI BEACH RESORT ASSOCIATION, 2014 KFRESH, STEVE EVANS

LARRY THE CABLE GUY - HELPING AMERICANS LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST DURING PRIME HEARTBURN SEASON – SUMMER BBQS

Larry the Cable Guy is a multiplatinum recording artist, Grammy nominee, New York Times Bestselling author, Billboard award winner and one of the top comedians in the country. Although he’s usually travelling the country performing sold-out shows, this summer he’s working with Prilosec OTC to help Americans live life to the fullest during prime heartburn season – summer BBQs!

Larry talks about two of the hottest summertime celebrations Prilosec OTC will be going to on the “You Can’t Beat Zero” tour, including the Fourth of July Celebration at the country’s largest Army base, Fort Bragg, and Chicago’s Air and Water Show! He’ll talk about his favorite ways to enjoy barbeque and share details on how you enter the You Can’t Beat Zero Sweepstakes. Throughout the summer viewers will have the chance to win $1000 cash prizes every 14 days and a grand prize of $10,000 and all the fixin’s for an epic end of summer barbeque event of their own.

Larry the Cable Guy, Comedian Larry the Cable Guy is a multi-platinum recording artist, Grammy nominee, New York Times Bestselling author, Billboard-award winner and one of the top comedians in the country. For three seasons, he was the host of Only in America with Larry the Cable Guy for History. In each episode, Larry visited various sites across the country revealing bits of real history while immersing himself in different lifestyles, jobs and hobbies that celebrate the American experience. He completed the Them Idiots Whirled Tour with Jeff Foxworthy and Bill Engvall and Larry, Jeff and Bill also star in an animated show for CMT called Bounty Hunters. Larry’s road to stardom included the Blue Collar Comedy Tour, which grossed more than 15 million dollars. The tour’s success led to Blue Collar Comedy Tour, The Movie, two more Blue Collar concert films and a television show, Blue Collar TV. Larry has also created The Git-R-Done Foundation, which was named after Larry’s signature catchphrase, and has donated more than 7 million dollars to various charities. He was named to Forbes Celebrity 100 list in 2006, 2007, 2011 and 2012.

SHELLEY KEKUNA – EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, KAANAPALI BEACH RESORT ASSOCIATION - 2014 KFRESH

In two years, Ka‘anapali Fresh has become ‘the most blogged about’ culinary destination event on Maui. Produced and hosted by Ka‘anapali Beach Resort Association, (whose members include resort hotels and condominiums, world-class golf courses, shopping centers, restaurants and ocean activity providers) the three-day festival features Maui-inspired cuisine paired with local farms and international wines and spirits.

It’s our credo that good food brings people together no matter where they’re from … We invite you August 29 – 31, 2014 to explore the bounty of the island with dishes creatively prepared by our resort chefs as well as celebrity chefs from Hawai‘i. Discover new ways to build cocktails with fresh ingredients, explore a Maui farm, and experience authentic Hawaiian culture.

Along the way, indulge in the beauty of Hawai‘i’s legendary master-planned resort at Ka‘anapali: stroll on America’s Best Beach, frolic with marine life in the clear blue sea or simply enjoy the warm sun and lush landscape.

KAANAPALIFRESH.COM

STEVE EVANS - "THE MOVIE GUY"

GREAT MOVIES OPENING THIS WEEKEND AND BOX OFFICE PREDICTIONS AND HOPES. FIND OUT WHAT MOVIES ARE WORTH YOUR HARD EARNED MONEY. GET SET FOR THE WEEKEND.

Thursday, June 19, 2014

6/19 HEATHER MURAN, SAN LUIS OBISPO WINE COUNTRY ASSOCIATION, ROLL OUT THE BARRELS, MARTIN SHORT, ALEX THEATRE

HEATHER MURAN - EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SAN LUIS OBISPO WINE COUNTRY ASSOCIATION - SLO WINE COUNTRY'S ROLL OUT THE BARRELS

Now is the time to purchase your tickets to Roll Out the Barrels Weekend, June 19-22nd. Some events are poised to sell out early, so don't wait! If you haven't been to this summer party, you're missing the best wine, food and entertainment our wine region has to offer!

The festivities begin with a Thursday evening “Barrels in The Plaza” grand tasting adjacent to the historic Mission in downtown San Luis Obispo. Check out the lineup of wineries and chefs who will be dishing out delicious pairings, and groove to our local gypsy swing band Hot Club of SLO. Then, on Friday evening, our wineries team up with area restaurants to offer a selection of winemaker dinners to fit every taste. These events will sell out soon, so make plans to purchase your tickets now!

Over the weekend, you will enjoy Passport to Wine Country, a two-day ticket to 28 wineries who will be opening their doors and dishing out wine and food pairings, live entertainment, and exclusive specials. Plus--you'll have to stay for Barrel Sample Sunday, where our wineries will be tasting and thieving straight from the barrels. Pick up your free SLO Wine Country wine tote and save all weekend long with our 6-Pack Sampler program, where every tasting room will be offering special discount package for you to take home.

Don't forget to book your weekend stay in San Luis Obispo! You can save $20 on your passport weekend tickets. Oh yeah, and did we mention there's an awesome concert in Avila Sunday evening? With your ticket to Roll Out the Barrels weekend, you'll also save 10% on concert tickets to the SUMMER KRUSH--Mary Lambert, Matt Nathanson, and Gavin DeGraw, all on stage overlooking the ocean at the Avila Beach Resort. Use code:slowine and save on your concert tickets.

MARTIN SHORT - ALEX THEATRE CELEBRATES COMPLETION OF MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR EXPANSION WITH GRAND REOPENING AND GALA EVENT FEATURING ENTERTAINER MARTIN SHORT

Glendale Arts will celebrate the completion of the landmark Alex Theatre’s multi-million dollar expansion and renovation when Emmy and Tony Award-winning performer Martin Short joins artistic director and conductor Matt Catingub and the Glendale Pops Orchestra for a special evening of comedy, music, song and dance at the Theatre’s Grand reopening Saturday, June 21st. The Alex Theatre is located at 216 North Brand Boulevard in Glendale.

Recalling the glamour of ‘Old Hollywood’, guests will walk the red carpet in true Alex Theatre style, as they enter the event, which will include a pre-and post-theatre reception and guided tour of the Alex’s new 6,600 square foot expansion (for VIP ticket holders). The pre-theatre reception will be held at 6:30 p.m., prior to the show at 8:00 p.m. An elegant dinner, catered by premier Mediterranean caterer Anoush and a silent auction will immediately follow the performance in a specially designed tent behind the theatre. VIP tickets are available for $150 per person. Tickets for the concert and performance only are available for $85 per person. For tickets and more information, call (818) 243-ALEX (2539) or visit www.alextheatre.org.

Proceeds from the event will support the programs and services of Glendale Arts, a private non-profit organization which manages the Alex Theatre and coordinates resources designed to benefit Glendale based artists, arts organizations, businesses, government agencies and local schools. Over the past decade, Glendale Arts has generated over 9.5 million in earned income in the City and hosted more than 2,500 community and professional performances.

A celebrated comedian and accomplished film, stage and TV actor, Short is perhaps best known for his many characters on NBC’s Saturday Night Live as well as his roles in the remake of Father of the Bride, as Franck the wedding planner, which he reprised a few years later in Father of the Bride Part II. A one-night-only experience, Short will perform a selection of Broadway-style show tunes and musical classics with the Glendale Pops, along with some of his familiar comedy routines, including an appearance by his well-known character Jiminy Glick. Most recently seen on the CBS hit comedy series How I Met Your Mother, Short is currently shooting the first season of the new FOX series Mulaney, set to air later in 2014.

In 1994, Short was awarded the Order of Canada, the Canadian equivalent to British Knighthood. He was also inducted into the Canadian Walk of Fame in June 2000.

Wednesday, June 18, 2014

6/18 LARRY LIPSCON, CHEF MICHAEL SYMON

Chef Michael Symon Helps Americans Celebrate One of America’s Favorite Pastimes and Offers Tips for the Ultimate Summer Cook Out!

Ninety percent of Americans believe that barbecuing is synonymous with outdoor entertaining, while 56 percent of Americans plan to barbecue more than 15 times this summer, according to a recent survey by Bank of America that asked consumers about their summer barbecuing and grilling habits. In celebration of this cherished American pastime, Bank of America, SeriousEats.com and celebrity chef Michael Symon are teaming up to kick off a summer-long program that will engage food enthusiasts across the nation by providing them with cooking and entertaining tips as well as advice on how to save money along the way.

From June 18 throughout the summer, Symon is inviting Americans to share photos and videos from their summer barbeques on social networks using #123BBQ. Posts with the hashtag will be aggregated on SeriousEats.com at www.SeriousEats.com/123bbq to inspire Americans looking for great summer barbecue ideas.

ABOUT MICHAEL SYMON
Michael Symon is a James Beard Foundation Award-winning American chef, restaurateur, television personality, and author. He is seen regularly on Food Network on shows such as Iron Chef America, Food Feuds, and The Best Thing I Ever Ate, as well as Cook Like an Iron Chef on the Cooking Channel and The Chew on ABC. Chef Michael Symon cooks with soul: growing up in a Greek and Sicilian family, the Cleveland native creates boldly flavored, deeply satisfying dishes at his restaurants in America’s heartland: Lola, Lolita, Roast and B Spot. He has also made numerous contributions to magazines and periodicals such as Bon Appétit, Esquire, Food Arts, Saveur and O, The Oprah Magazine.

Tuesday, June 17, 2014

6/17 WILLIAM SHATNER, SHATNER’S WORLD, MGM GRAND, MORGEN MCLAUGHLIN, THE SANTA BARBARA COUNTY VINTNERS' ASSOCIATION, KEY TO WINE COUNTRY

WILLIAM SHATNER - ONE-MAN SHOW ‘SHATNER’S WORLD’ DEBUTS AT THE HOLLYWOOD THEATRE AT MGM GRAND JUNE 19 – 21

In SHATNER'S WORLD…a one man force of nature delivers a larger than life performance complete with his laugh-out-loud humor, signature storytelling and select musical selections in his inimitable style.

Through anecdotes, songs, jokes and even some poignant moments, you will experience William Shatner 's phenomenal path from classically trained Shakespearean actor to cultural icon, brilliantly creating the larger-than-life and most important character he has ever played, William Shatner.

MGM Grand Hotel & Casino will host television and movie legend William Shatner for a three-night engagement when he performs his one-man show “SHATNER’S WORLD: WE JUST LIVE IN IT” June 19 – 21 at the Hollywood Theatre. In April 2011, Shatner launched what would eventually become his hugely popular stage show in Australia, New Zealand and Canada. In 2012, the show opened on Broadway and has been performed in more than 50 cities in the United States.

Known as much for his unique persona as for his expansive body of work on television and the big screen, Shatner will take his audiences on a 90-minute voyage through his life and career, from Shakespearean stage actor to internationally known icon and personality.

Shatner is an award-winning actor, director, producer, writer, recording artist, philanthropist and horseman. In 1966, he introduced the character of Captain James T. Kirk in the television series “Star Trek.” The series became a film franchise with Shatner as Kirk in seven movies, one of which he directed. He also played the title role in the hit series “T.J. Hooker” before hosting TV’s first reality-based series “Rescue 911.” Shatner won two Emmys and his first Golden Globe for his portrayal of Denny Crane on “The Practice” and “Boston Legal” and received four additional Emmy nominations as well as Golden Globes and SAG Awards.
Off screen, Shatner has authored nearly 30 bestsellers in both the fiction and non-fiction genres. His autobiography “Up Till Now” was a New York Times bestseller and in 2011 he released “Shatner Rules,” a collection of rules illustrated with stories from his personal life and career. Shatner’s latest book, “Hire Yourself,” is scheduled to be released later this fall.

MGMGRAND.COM
SHATNERSWORLD.COM

MORGEN MCLAUGHLIN - EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF THE SANTA BARBARA COUNTY VINTNERS' ASSOCIATION – KEY TO WINE COUNTRY 6/20-6/22

We are pleased to announce the release of the six new Santa Barbara County viticultural maps. These detailed maps are perfect for framing and outline the AVA borders and where each vineyard is located. Get the Santa Barbara County map to view the county as a whole, and the more specialized AVA maps to see the vineyards in more detail. Each map retails for $20 plus tax and shipping & handling. However as a valued industry member we are offering you maps at a 50% discount. Use code: discount50 at checkout.

KEY TO WINE COUNTRY

Your key to unlocking exclusive and unique wine country experiences throughout Santa Barbara County. It's like a wine tasting passport...a passport that gets you in the VIP line no one knows about.

Purchase a Key - a lanyard you'll wear to show participating wineries and vineyards you're a VIP. Use the password you'll receive upon purchasing a key to RSVP to the events or experiences. If an event doesn't need an RSVP, just show up wearing your Key.

Go to as many EXCLUSIVE events and experiences, special wine tastings, and winemaker meet and greets as you'd like from June 20 - 22. There is no limit on what you can see and do! Like the wine you try? Wearing your Key gets you EXCLUSIVE discounts when you purchase wine. Only 500 keys are available... buy yours today for $100! One Key per person. Offers subject to change. Keys are nonrefundable.

Monday, June 16, 2014

6/16 CHEF WILLIAM BLOXSOM CARTER, THE PLAYBOY MANSION, DEBORA PATTA - 48 HOURS, EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF RAYMOND NICASIO, SHERATON MAUI RESORT & SPA, BLACK ROCK STEAK AND SEAFOOD

GUEST HOST, CHEF WILLIAM BLOXSOM CARTER FROM THE PLAYBOY MANSION FILLS ON FOR MICHAEL HORN!

Chef William S. Bloxsom-Carter has worked as the Executive Chef, and Food and Beverage Director for the Playboy Mansion West for over two and half decades. A frequent wine judge he constantly looks for wines to pair with his foods for the multitude of foods he presents to guest at the Mansion; this can mean an intimate dinner party of 12, or upwards of 1,200 people. Complementing his responsibilities for Playboy Enterprises, Chef Carter has prepared winery dinners in Sonoma County, Napa Valley, Paso Robles and the Santa Ynez Valley as well as special events for high-profile clients throughout the United States, focusing on the importance of food and wine pairings and extraordinary hospitality service. Additionally, Chef Carter is a recurring featured guest on numerous radio shows syndicated nationwide describing and promoting California wines and foods.

DEBORA PATTA - EXECUTIVE PRODUCER, 48 HOURS - “OSCAR PISTORIUS: SHOTS IN THE DARK”

MONDAY’S 48 HOURS EXPLORES THE CASE OF OSCAR PISTORIUS, AND DELVES INTO THE TRIAL THAT HAS CAPTIVATED THE WORLD.

In the first comprehensive overview of the trial, 48 Hours presents an hour in primetime examining where things stand. In the final days before Judge Thokilize Masipa rules on South Africa’s famed athlete, 48 HOURS feature interviews with Mark Seal, of Vanity Fair, who has written extensively about the trial; Jen Su, a South African talk show host and friend of Oscar and Reeva’s and Mike Azzie –a man who’s like a second father to Oscar – and who Oscar lived with - speaks out for the first time.

The show also takes us to Arkansas, where you’ll hear from Francois Van Der Watt, who made Oscar’s famous blades.
The riveting drama in the courtroom has been building for over three months. The nation of Nelson Mandela is familiar with heartache and heroes. But this is the tale of a different kind of hero. And the High Court is awash in controversial testimony and raw unfiltered emotion. It has been an Oscar Pistorius no one could imagine…He chose not to have his testimony on-camera - while being grilled by prosecutor Gerrie Nel, nickname: The Bulldog. The legendary Blade Runner…27 years old, example of courage to the world… Accused of the Valentine’s Day murder, in 2013, of his stunning girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp.

Now, 48 Hours delves into the trial that has captivated the world. In the first comprehensive overview of the trial, 48 Hours presents an hour in primetime examining where things stand. In the final days before Judge Thokilize Masipa rules on South Africa’s famed athlete, we feature interviews with Mark Seal, of Vanity Fair, who has written extensively about the trial; Jen Su, a South African talk show host and friend of Oscar and Reeva’s and Mike Azzie –a man who’s like a second father to Oscar – and who Oscar lived with - speaks out for the first time. Plus, you’ll hear from Francois Van Der Watt, who made Oscar’s famous blades; Samkelo Radebe, who lost his hands in an electrical accident and was Oscar’s teammate; Simphiwe Majola, Reeva’s publicist and Gina Meyers, Reeva’s roommate. We also hear from defense attorney Mark O’Mara; forensic psychiatrist Dr. Alexander Sasha Bardey; ballistics expert Captain Chris Mangena; forensic scientist Dr. David Klatzow; attorney Renier Spies and famed attorney Joe Tacopina.

Twenty years ago, the fate of another sports star accused of murder riveted this country…OJ Simpson. We speak to Harvard Law Professor Alan Dershowitz as well as Robert Shapiro who has been making guest appearances on the South African channel. What comparisons can we draw between the two cases? Plus, Ron Goldman’s sister Kim offers her advice to the family of Reeva Steenkamp.
Debora Patta was in the courtroom and is covering this historic case from South Africa. Peter Van Sant looks at the private sides of Oscar and Reeva and Troy Roberts reports on the OJ Simpson case…twenty years after the Bronco chase that transfixed this country.

EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF RAYMOND NICASIO - SHERATON MAUI RESORT & SPA, BLACK ROCK STEAK AND SEAFOOD

NEW RESTAURANT MENU AT BLACK ROCK STEAK AND SEAFOOD:

Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa’s popular restaurant Black Rock Steak and Seafood debuts a new menu highlighting local ingredients and inspired flavors.

The new Black Rock Steak and Seafood menu begins with a variety of plates for the table, including “Moco” Poutine, a play on the local favorite Loco Moco; as well as a Rock n’Cheese Fondue utilizing the resort’s signature craft beer, Black Rock Lager by Maui Brewing Co. Exploring the menu further will take you to a variety of unique offerings including the Hunters’ Chef Board which features Merguez Lamb Sausage, Venison Sausage, Wild Boar Sausage, Pickle Jar, House Mustard, Compte Du Jour and Taro Focaccia Bread. The Manila Clams selection allows guests to choose from a variety of preparations as does the selection of flatbreads, soups and salads. The main plates, chops and steaks offer everything from roasted chicken, kampachi, braised short rib, bone-in rib eye, filet mignon, and more. Each dish is accentuated by specialty glazes, seasonings, and sides. Black Rock Steak and Seafood is open daily for dinner between 5:30pm – 9:00pm. Reservations are recommended. For reservations please call (808) 921-4600.

ABOUT RAYMOND NICASIO:

Executive sous chef Raymond Nicasio brings a diversity of culinary talents and experiences to his role at Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa. Born and raised in the Philippines, Nicasio grew up with a love of food and curiosity for the kitchen fueled by watching his father work as a hotel manager at a Manila resort. Nicasio’s cooking and education has led him from the Philippines to Toronto where he worked in private catering to Houston, Texas working in the main kitchen for the Houston Rockets NBA basketball team. In 2005 Nicasio moved to the prestigious Coronado Country Club where he nurtured his love of fine dining. In 2010 Nicasio and his wife moved to Maui to take the position of sous chef with Westin Ka‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas. Nicasio blended his classical French training with a fusion of international styles of Filipino, Chinese, Mexican, and Portuguese to develop his own unique island style. In 2012 he took the role of chef de cuisine leading the opening of Sheraton Kauai’s signature restaurant Rum Fire and earning the Taste of Hawaii “Best Seafood Award”.

Nicasio joined the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa culinary team as executive sous chef in August 2013 bringing his devotion to utilizing locally sourced ingredients and fusions to the resort’s two signature restaurants and three pool bars and lounges. Nicasio’s travels have influenced his approach to cooking; he recognizes how to utilize unique local ingredients with a twist. “My food is about familiar flavors being used in an unexpected way,” Nicasio states.

Friday, June 13, 2014

6/13 CLIFFORD NAE’OLE, JAY HEIDENREICH, LEON GRICE, THE RITZ-CARLTON, KAPALUA FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL

MIKE AND JEN ARE BROADCASTING LIVE FROM THE RITZ-CARLTON FOR THE KAPALUA FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL!

CLIFFORD NAE’OLE – CULTURAL ADVISOR, THE RITZ-CARLTON/KAPALUA

With 35 years of hospitality industry experience in Hawaii and a native of Maui, HI, Clifford Nae’ole is the Hawaiian cultural advisor for The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua. In this unique position for the past 19 years, Mr. Nae’ole advises and educates employees and guests on proper Hawaiian protocol and customs, shares fascinating accounts of his homeland and ancestors, maintains a presence of the Hawaiian culture in the hotel and encourages a cohesive relationship with the community. Mr. Nae’ole has been featured in a national print and television advertising campaign for the Hawaii Convention & Visitors Bureau as well as on networks such as ESPN, E!, the Travel Channel, The Discovery Channel, The Learning Channel, Hawaiian Airlines Inflight video, “E” on Travel – Above and Below Maui – the recipient of two Emmy Awards in 2004, and more.

JAY HEIDENREICH – DIRECTOR OF SALES AND MARKETING, THE RITZ-CARLTON/KAPALUA

With more than seventeen years of hospitality experience, Heidenreich will be responsible for the leadership of all sales and marketing for the hotel. He joins the Kapalua sales team after serving as Director of Sales & Marketing at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay. With his appointment in Kapalua, Heidenreich returns to the Hawaiian Islands were he was previously Director of Sales and Marketing for the Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club. Prior to joining The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, Heidenreich was a Sales Manager on the opening team of the Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa in New Mexico. In 2002 he joined Princeville Resort, a luxury Kauai hotel on Hanalei Beach as Senior Sales Manager. After two years with the property, Heidenreich was promoted to Director of Sales & Marketing, where he served for three years. During his tenure at Princeville Resort, he was part of 2004’s Sales Team of the Year and the top producer for the Western United States in 2005 within Starwood Hotels and Resorts.

LEON GRICE – CONSUL-GENERAL, NEW ZEALAND CONSULATE GENERAL IN LOS ANGELES

The New Zealand Consulate General in Los Angeles is an overseas post of the New Zealand Government. It is responsible to the New Zealand Ambassador in Washington for pursuing a range of New Zealands interests in the western part of the United States. The Consul-General, the Honourable Leon Grice is accredited for the following state Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming
WWW.NZCGLA.COM

ABOUT THE RITZ-CARLTON, KAPALUA:

Nestled on 54 acres, The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua showcases a stunning destination resort offering 463 guestrooms, including 107 residential suites, warm wood floors, travertine bathrooms, flat-screen televisions and Hawaiian-inspired artwork. The Spa beckons with treatment rooms framed by private garden showers, volcanic stone grottos, heat therapies, and a fitness center with spectacular ocean views. Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ambassadors of the Environment offers all levels activities from land to sea. Also featured are six restaurants, indoor/outdoor meeting space, an inviting children's pool and luxury cabanas. It is enveloped by picturesque Kapalua Resort’s two championship golf courses, dining and a century-old pineapple plantation.
WWW.RITZCARLTON.COM/KAPALUA

KAPALUA FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL:

A collaboration of Kapalua Resort partners creating a new spin on the longest running food and wine event in the USA. This celebration of epicurean excellence will convene the finest in food and wine and embrace all things Hawaiian – notably – the fabulous culinary bounty on Maui and here at the world-renowned Kapalua Resort. Enjoy seminars, cooking demonstrations, Kapalua Seafood Festival, Grand Tasting and winemaker dinners.
KAPALUAWINEANDFOODFESTIVAL.COM

Thursday, June 12, 2014

6/12 HEATHER MURAN, SLO WINE COUNTRY'S ROLL OUT THE BARRELS, STEVE EVANS

HEATHER MURAN - EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SAN LUIS OBISPO WINE COUNTRY ASSOCIATION - SLO WINE COUNTRY'S ROLL OUT THE BARRELS

STEVE EVANS - "THE MOVIE GUY"

GREAT MOVIES OPENING THIS WEEKEND AND BOX OFFICE PREDICTIONS AND HOPES. FIND OUT WHAT MOVIES ARE WORTH YOUR HARD EARNED MONEY. GET SET FOR THE WEEKEND.

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

6/11 LARRY LIPSON, PAULA FROELICH

Looking to Travel Solo? With The Family? Or An Adventure? Whether you want to travel alone, with family, find a place to unwind, or you’re looking for the ultimate adventure, Yahoo’s travel editor has insight and tips you’ll want to hear about before you book your Summer getaways. Paula can discuss:

Launched last month, the new Yahoo Travel gives reader’s a first-class ticket around the world. Paula Froelich serves as Editor in Chief where she leads editorial direction for the re-imagined site. She is an award-winning journalist, creator of the travel website A Broad Abroad, and the New York Times best-selling author of the novel Mercury In Retrograde. She was the deputy editor of the New York Post’s gossip column, “Page Six,” for 10 years. She won a Gold Medal award from the North American Travel Journalists Association for her piece in Playboy on Iraq, “Down And Out In Baghdad.” Paula is originally from Ohio and Kentucky and loves to travel to places where the USD still means something.

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

6/10 STEVEN RAICHLEN, MAN MADE MEALS: THE ESSENTIAL COOKBOOK FOR GUYS, CATENYA MCHENRY, GREAT GIFTS FOR DADS AND GRADS

STEVEN RAICHLEN – AUTHOR, MAN MADE MEALS: THE ESSENTIAL COOKBOOK FOR GUYS

Part cookbook, part technical manual, part crash course on culinary literacy, and 100% guidebook to the world of male cooking, Steven’s latest, MAN MADE MEALS: The Essential Cookbook for Guys (Workman; June 2014), teaches men to navigate the kitchen with confidence, style, and tenacity! Men cook for pleasure and showmanship—not just for practicality—which explains why they are so attracted to the grill. There’s certainly something primal about gathering around a fire outdoors. But indoors there are knives, cast iron skillets, 7 ways to make a Bloody Mary (pg 594), Blowtorch Oatmeal (pg 65), Skillet Rib Steak (pg 231), Really Good Beef and Pork Chili (pg 149), Fire-Eater Chicken Wings (pg 207), Candied Bacon Sundaes (pg 553), and Rum and Coke Floats (pg 555). And there are still plenty of occasions to play with fire thanks to Raichlen’s comprehensive instructions on flambéing, smoking, and, of course, grilling!

Writing in his signature easy-going and entertaining, yet authoritative, voice—which makes every recipe and technique lesson fun instead of intimidating—Raichlen offers simple, but ingenious tips and techniques that will make dishes jump off the plate with flavor.

MAN MADE MEALS comes complete with more than 300 mouth-watering recipes ranging from breakfast to dessert, from condiments to killer cocktails! Each recipe has a quick-reference, four-part sidebar that includes: Shop (information about ingredients), Gear (what you’ll need), What Else (tips), and Time (how much time it should take) for quick and easy prep. Lavish, full-color photos show step-by-step how to master the basics like flipping an omelet, carving a turkey, cracking a lobster, butterflying a pork loin, and more, plus finished dishes in all their manly glory.

Raichlen also interviewed accomplished, admired, and frankly cool “Food Dudes” for their advice on favorite foods, techniques, and cooking philosophies. When Francis Mallmann, Thomas Keller, Nathan Myhrvold, José Andrés, Michael Pollan, Stanley Tucci, Andrew Zimmern, Mark Bittman, Dale DeGroff, and other marquee food dudes speak, guys will definitely want to listen. Whether you’re single or married, in college or retired, on a budget or on the board of directors, you have the right, need, and desire to eat well and show off doing it! MAN MADE MEALS is the essential guide for any man who wants to get into the kitchen, cook, and eat well for the rest of his life.

BARBECUEBIBLE.COM

CATENYA MCHENRY – LIFESTYLE EXPERT, GREAT GIFTS FOR DADS AND GRADS

GRADS GIFTS

DORM IN A BOX:

Getting your kid off to college later this summer, or have a high school senior graduating soon? Dorm In A Box gives you a one-stop-shop to get your soon-to-be college freshman everything they need!
Dorm-In-A-Box has bed sets, office supplies and bath bundles ranging in price from $69-$199. Altogether, Dorm-In-A-Box offers more than a 30 percent savings by offering the products in bundles, rather than buying items individually at big box stores. You can even have Dorm-In-A-Box delivered straight to your son or daughter’s new dorm! www.dorminabox.com

DOTMINE DAY PLANNERS:

Get your grad the gift they can use well after their semester has wrapped-up. Check out Dotmine Day Planners, chic and trendy day planners that are perfect for graduating guys and gals. The concept is simple: create fashionable, functional and affordable day planners to help manage busy schedules. Keep track of all those upcoming job interviews, summer vacations and so much more! The end goal: increase efficiency, minimize chaos and maximize happiness! You don’t have to plug it in, sync it, click it or charge it. Paper planners are at the ready, with a clear view of your day, week and month. Dotmine Day Planners savvy planning tools meet the needs of busy grads with a place for schedules, notes and monthly and weekly planning pages. These planners go for17-months, August-December and they’re reasonably priced from $15.99 to $32.99. www.timemine.com

KEYPORT SLIDE:

Most new grads want the keys to a new car. Well they can keep their cars keys organized with the new Keyport Slide 2.0, which has reinvented the conventional keychain. The Slide holds up to 6 keys or inserts, yet is roughly the size of a pack of gum. The revolutionary Keyport blades replace traditional keys, fit securely in the Keyport Slide, are easily inserted and removed, and feature a one-size-fits-all head. It's compatible with most standard keys, including house keys, high-security keys, transponder-chipped auto and motorcycle keys, small mail and padlock keys, and bike lock keys. Users can customize their Slide, with useful tools like a flash drive, mini-light and bottle opener. It provides easy access to keys and tools with the slide of a thumb. $29 plus accessories and inserts; www.mykeyport.com

FATHER’S DAY

ENDLESS GAMES:

Mom would love to receive board games to play with her friends and family! For ages 3 to 103, Endless Games offers card, dice, party, word, strategy, trivia, survey and pop culture games for everyone! Games like Oddly Obvious, the wild new party game where all the answers are right in front of you. One player reads clues while the other players race to spot the correct answers on a game card. The trick, the answers are each in different fonts and colors, written up, down, and even upside down. Shout out the most correct answers to win. It's not as easy as you think! Other great travel games and board games at www.endlessgames.com. Games starting at $16.99.

UWATER – THE ULTIMATE ACTIVE LIFESTYLE COMPANION :

UWater offers the world’s smallest action audio gear that goes from sand to surf! Designed to go anywhere, weighing just one ounce, the UWater G5 is a 4GB 100% waterproof MP3/FM player that can be attached to goggles, a headband, armband, swimsuit, wetsuit or belt so that you can play your favorite songs or listen to audio books while out enjoying your favorite water sports, including swimming laps! UWater G5 is available for $60 at www.gearedtobefit.com

PHONESOAP:

If dad wants to keep his smartphone clean... then PhoneSoap is for him! Did you know your cell phone is 18 times dirtier than a public toilet? We are constantly transferring bacteria onto our devices from everything we touch. You wash your hands, but never clean your phone. The PhoneSoap Charger is the first and only cell phone charger that cleans and sanitizes your phone in less than five minutes while it charges, and it is the safest and most complete way to kill all the bacteria growing on your phone. Using UV light to safely get rid of bacteria, the PhoneSoap charger does not use heat, liquid or chemicals. PhoneSoap Charger is universal, and designed to fit even the largest smartphones. No need to worry if you want to charge and clean your phone overnight, the PhoneSoap charger has unique acoustic outlets designed to let you hear your notifications and alarms even when your phone is inside. You will be able to hear your alarm, notifications and calls loud and clear. $59.95 www.phonesoap.com

Monday, June 9, 2014

6/9 ROBIN ASBELL, JUICE IT!, STEVE GREENBERG, TECH TRENDS FOR FATHER’S DAY

ROBIN ASBELL – AUTHOR, JUICE IT!

Juicing is cold off the press! Filled with 65 vibrant recipes for turning fresh fruits and vegetables into delicious and healthful juices, this refreshing cookbook offers essential guidance for utilizing the increasing number of juicers and high-performance blenders popping up in home kitchens. From perky blends such as Mango Green Tea Booster and Ginger Jolt to quiet soothers like Berry Melon and Grape Night's Sleep, these inspired beverages guarantee invigorating flavor combinations and prove the power of drinking your vitamins and loving it too. Whether the goal is weight loss, cleansing, increased nutrition, or more energy, Juice It! makes it easy to whip up blends that taste great.

ABOUT ROBIN: Robin Asbell has been immersed in whole, real foods cooking for most of her life, and has made a vocation of crafting delicious, healthy recipes and writing about it. Her latest book, Sweet and Easy Vegan, Treats Made with Whole Grains and Natural Sweeteners (Chronicle Books) is the culmination of many years of baking for vegans.

Her last book, Big Vegan, Over 350 Recipes, No Meat, No Dairy, All Delicious, is a celebration of just how satisfying and alluring plant based cuisine can be.Robin's second book, The New Vegetarian Cookbook, brims with her creative and fresh takes on meatless cuisine. Her first book, The New Whole Grains Cookbook, is filled with flavorful, beautiful food that just happens to be whole grain.
Robin has been cooking and creating recipes in the Natural foods business since the mid 80's. What began as a side job in college turned out to be a lifelong career, when she realized that her true passion lay in healing the Earth and the people around her with healthy, organic food. After baking and cooking with whole foods in restaurants, delis and Coops for many years, she started working as a Private Chef in the mid-90's, creating fabulous food for the fabulous.

She also writes for magazines like Better Homes and Gardens, Real Food, Vegetarian Times, Experience Life, Taunton's Fine Cooking, Mother Earth News, The Mix, and others.

www.robinasbell.com

INNOVATION INSIDER & AUTHOR STEVE GREENBERG TALKS TECH TRENDS FOR FATHER’S DAY

Innovation insider and author Steve Greenberg brings your viewers up to speed on summer technology trends and great gift ideas for Dads! From gadgets to home technology and new innovations all around, Steve will unveil, show, tell and discuss the coolest and most innovative tech “toys” available this summer.

ABOUT STEVE GREENBERG: In addition to being a product scout and the author of GADGET NATION, Steve is also the host of the Food Network's INVENTION HUNTERS. He routinely appears on The Dr. Oz Show and NBC's Today Show. Each month, Steve can been seen demonstrating innovative products in America's top TV markets including WGN Chicago, ABC Dallas, NBC Seattle, CBS Houston and others.

For three years Steve could be seen nationally every weeknight demonstrating innovative products on the Discovery Channel's Your New House. For six years Steve was on HGTV's very popular Dream Builders. For Dream Builders, Steve has traveled the country showcasing the latest in home design, construction and trends. For 5-years, HGTV also used Steve's reporting skills for coverage of the hottest new home improvement products at NAHB's International Builders Show. Steve has also been a judge for Hammacher-Schlemmer's Search for Invention Contest and Popular Science's National School Inventors Challenge.

www.gadgetnation.net

Saturday, June 7, 2014

6/07 DAVID DUNCAN, JEFF GARGIULO, EXECUTIVE CHEF CHRISTOPHER KOSTOW, CARMEN POLICY, ED MATOVCIK

MIKE AND PAUL ARE LIVE AT MEADOWOOD FOR AUCTION NAPA VALLEY!

Although Auction Napa Valley, the Napa Valley Vintners’ (NVV) annual charity wine fundraiser is sold-out, wine lovers from around the world can still join the excitement via the E-Auction. Bidders anywhere in the world have the chance to acquire extraordinary and often one-of-a-kind wines and experiences with vintners and winemakers, while supporting healthcare and children’s education nonprofit organizations. Lots can be viewed and bids placed at auctionnapavalley.org.

DAVID DUNCAN
www.silveroak.com