Tuesday, April 5, 2011

4/6 Nutrition Tips, Four Roses Bourbon, Larry Lipson, Sara Rue & Barry Watson

What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE:

Looking for a Fresh Approach to Nutrition? Dr. Jeffrey Mechanick Gives Us Some Great Tips!

Are we treating our bodies right? Every day we are bombarded with the latest in nutrition trends, telling us to eat this, avoid that, making it harder to understand what good nutrition really means. The only thing experts can all agree on is overeating has some heavy consequences. Careless eating can lead to unhealthy conditions such as weight gain, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, premature aging and even cancer. So how can we avoid these potentially life threatening conditions? The latest fad diet is NOT the answer. Yes eating is necessary to sustain us and food is meant to be enjoyed. But in the end, the most important tool necessary to help us enjoy a long, healthy and productive life, is knowledge.


Al Young Tells Us About The Rise, Removal and Return of Four Roses!

The legend of the whiskey maker who proposed to a Southern belle…One of the first neon advertising signs in New York's Times Square…The removal of one of the most popular spirits from the United States and its subsequent return…These are some of the stories brought to light in a new book, Four Roses: The Return of a Whiskey Legend, written by Al Young, Brand Ambassador and historian for the Four Roses Distillery. This book details the history and the people behind the long-time international bourbon brand that vanished from U.S. shelves for 40 years until its more recent resurgence. The coffee-table style book was released in early December and coincides with the 100th anniversary of Four Roses main distillery building in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky.

Young began writing the book two years ago. He poured through extensive company archives and memorabilia collections, as well as researched and interviewed outside sources, including relatives of Four Roses founder, Paul Jones Jr. The book begins with the story of how the Jones family created the Four Roses name and the legend behind the establishment of the brand. From there, it leads into National Prohibition and how the brand came to be the country's top-selling bourbon of the time, and the acquisition of the distillery's 10 unique bourbon recipes.

In the 1930s, '40s and '50s, Four Roses was the best selling Bourbon brand in America. But in the '50s, then-owner Seagram's chose to pull Four Roses from the U.S. market to focus on international markets only. In 2002, under new ownership Kirin Brewery Co., Ltd., and at the urgings of Master Distiller Jim Rutledge, Four Roses returned to the U.S., with distribution limited solely to Kentucky. In 2007, the brand began market introductions in states such as New York, New Jersey, Tennessee, Florida and California. Four Roses is currently sold in package stores, bars and restaurants in 39 states with further expansion planned throughout 2011.

What's Cookin' Today Hour TWO:

Wine Correspondent Larry Lipson Tells a Tale of Two Wines from Argentina!

Argentina makes some interesting red wines!


The Argentine wine industry is the fifth largest producer of wine in the world. Argentine wine, as with some aspects of Argentine cuisine, has its roots in Spain. During the Spanish colonization of the Americas, vine cuttings were brought to Santiago del Estero in 1557, and the cultivation of the grape and wine production stretched first to neighboring regions, and then to other parts of the country.

Larry tells us about two he tasted recently, both from the Mendoza valley, one a Malbec the other a cabernet sauvignon and...oh so different.

Actress Sara Rue and Actor Barry Watson Discuss Their Upcoming Movie, My Future Boyfriend

In "My Future Boyfriend", P-A-X-497/341, aka "Pax" (Barry Watson), a curious young man from the well-ordered but loveless future, travels to present day New Orleans in search of romance novelist Elizabeth Barrett (Sara Rue) - whose book he has come upon during an archeological dig in the year 3127. Hoping Elizabeth can explain the concept of love to him, which is now nonexistent in his time, Pax embarks on an adventure filled with new discoveries. Elizabeth introduces Pax to life in the year 2011, filled with love, music and of course, destiny. When Pax doesn't return to the future by the given deadline, Bob (Fred Willard), his fellow scientist, travels back in time to find him. Meanwhile, as Elizabeth helps Pax learn about love, she ends up confiding in her colleague, played by Valerie Harper, about her own upcoming "surprise" engagement.

About Sara Rue, “Elizabeth Barrett” Sara Rue stars in "My Future Boyfriend" as Elizabeth Barrett, a newly published romance novelist who meets Pax, a man from the very distant future intent on learning about love. Born and raised in New York City, Rue's acting career began at age 9, when she was cast as Kevin Spacey's daughter and Burt Lancaster's granddaughter in the film "Rocket Gibraltar." Shortly thereafter she won critical acclaim for her television series debut in the comedy "Grand." Since then, Rue has appeared as a series regular on various shows, including "Phenom," "Minor Adjustments," "Zoe, Duncan, Jack & Jane," "Popular" and "Eastwick." Most notably she was the star of ABC's hit series "Less than Perfect" for four seasons. She has also been seen in many guest and recurring roles on shows such as "ER," "Will & Grace," "Two and a Half Men," "The Big Bang Theory" and most recently "Private Practice." She also has experience on the other side of the camera, producing film and television, and recently sold her first movie to Dimension Films. Currently Rue is the host of CW's reality show, "Shedding for the Wedding," and has three independent films waiting for a release. She is also a celebrity spokesperson for Jenny Craig.

About Barry Watson, “PAX” Barry Watson stars in "My Future Boyfriend" as Pax, an inquisitive human from the future who travels back to present day to learn more about love. Watson was first introduced to television audiences at the age of 15 with a six-month stint on NBC's daytime drama, "Days of our Lives." His television career spans many shows, including guest-starring roles on "The Nanny," "Sister, Sister," "Nash Bridges," "Malibu Shores," "Baywatch" and "Drop Dead Diva." He then went on to "star status" as a series regular on "7th Heaven," "What About Brian" and the critically-acclaimed "Samantha Who?" In almost serendipitous fashion, "7th Heaven" provided him a connection to ABC Family through Brenda Hampton, the creator of the CW series and ABC Family's current hit drama, "The Secret Life of the American Teenager." In feature films Watson starred in "Teaching Mrs. Tingle," "Sorority Boys," "Boogeyman," and had a brief cameo in "Ocean's 11."

Don't forget to "Like" CRN's Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/crntalkAnd "Like" Our What's Cookin' Today Page, too! http://www.facebook.com/pages/Whats-Cookin-Today-Radio-Show/180963171920067

Monday, April 4, 2011

4/5 Health Benefits of Maple Syrup, David Heavener, What's Your Real Age?, Paradise Ridge Winery

What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE:

Dr. Navindra Seeram Tells Us About Some New Research that Shows that Maple Syrup May Offer The Same Health Benefits We Find in Green Tea, Red Wine, Berries and Flax Seed!

New study discovers a unique combination of 51 disease-fighting anti-oxidants in Maple Syrup from Canada, more than double the amount of phytonutrients previously reported. With this wide array of anti-oxidants, maple syrup is a healthful “anti-oxidant cocktail” with great disease-fighting potential.

Navindra P. Seeram, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor of Pharmacognosy in the Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, USA. The Federation of Quebec Maple Syrup Producers was founded in 1966 to support the interests of 10,000 maple syrup producers in the Quebec region, and is widely recognized for speaking in the name of the Canadian maple syrup industry. Canada produces 80% of the world’s pure maple syrup, 91% of which comes from Quebec. Today, Canadian maple syrup is exported to approximately 50 countries, including the U.S. which is the primary importer.

For more info, go to http://www.maplesyrupfederation.com/home.aspx!

Filmmaker David Heavener Talks About His Career!

In a 20 year career an an accomplished filmmaker, David Heavener has written, directed, produced and starred in over 30 motion pictures and has distributed hundreds more. He has worked hand in hand with such Hollywood greats as Academy Award winner Martin Landau, Academy Award nominees Tony Curtis, Sally Kirkland and Karen Black. Margot Kidder, Isaac Hayes, Marc Singer and Robert Reed are just some of the other notable celebrities to have been involved with David’s projects. Many of his movies have aired on HBO, Showtime and USA Network. He has guest-starred on NBC’s “Hunter” and “Days Of Our Lives”. He has been featured on “Entertainment Tonight” and in “Backstage West”. David’s recent film, “Dawn Of The Living Dead” was released on DVD in August and had been on Wal-Mart’s top 10 list of DVD sales for 12 consecutive weeks.

Prior to becoming a filmmaker, David started in the arts as a songwriter for Capitol Records. Christian recording artist Cristy Lane took one of his songs into the top ten on the Country charts as did Billy “Crash” Craddock. A dozen more songs penned by David have graced the country charts as well.

In addition to songwriter and filmmaker, David holds another title, Minister of Music. After serving in this capacity for the last 15 years, David has finally completed his new faith based CD which is also the soundtrack to his new TV series “Confessions Of An Exorcist”.
David, who also wrote and directed the series, plays and ex-priest who discovers that there is only one thing that can truly defeat The Devil...and that is The Blood of Christ.

For more info on David, go to http://www.davidheavener.com/Home.html
and www.tickettohollywood.org!

What's Cookin' Today Hour TWO:

What's Your REAL AGE? Dr. Michael Roizen Reveals America's Youngest and Oldest Cities


Dr. Roizen, co-author with Mehmet Oz, MD of best-selling YOU books, offers insight on exactly why cities fared well…or poorly! He talks about what the test uncovers and which factors make people age faster or help them stay younger longer.

Dr. Roizen is 65 calendar years old, but his RealAge is only 43.8.

The RealAge test calculates how young or old your body thinks it is compared to your chronological age, based on the latest medical, nutritional and fitness studies along with your lifestyle, genetics and medical history. After amassing results from the more than 27 million people who have taken the online assessment since its debut in 1999, RealAge is revealing its list of the youngest and oldest cities in the country.

About Dr. Michael Roizen, MD: He is the co-founder of RealAge, Inc; RealAge.com and Chairman of RealAge Scientific Advisory Board. He is the co-creator of the RealAge Test and he currently serves as both the chief wellness officer of the Cleveland Clinic and the chairman of its Wellness Institute. He is board certified in internal medicine and anesthesiology and is the author of numerous books including RealAge: Are You as Young as You Can Be? which became a New York Times #1 best-seller, was named Best Wellness Book of 1999 by Books for a Better Life Awards, and has been translated into more than 20 languages.


Dan Barwick Takes us on a Tour of Sonoma County's Paradise Ridge Winery!

Nestled on a 156-acre wine estate in the heart of Sonoma County minutes from downtown Santa Rosa, Paradise Ridge Winery offers spectacular natural vistas overlooking the Russian River Valley. Expansive decks and terraces open to panoramic landscapes, including rolling vineyards and pastoral wine country scenery. Visitors can sample exciting wines in their newly renovated tasting room. Winery guests are invited to relax and enjoy “The most beautiful view in Sonoma County”.

This stunning wine country property was discovered in 1977 by Walter Byck & Marijke Byck-Hoenselaars. The winery was founded in 1991 and is family owned & operated. Every attention to detail is personally overseen to give an exceptional and complete wine country experience.

About Dan Barwick: Dan Barwick was born in Dover, England. Since the age of 16, Dan has worked in the food and beverage industry. From 1978 thru 1987 he worked as a manager in the famous ‘Harrods Food Halls’ in Knightsbridge London, where he also got his first taste of fine wine. During his time at Harrods, Dan completed a two year University extension course for retail management. From 1987 to 1988 he helped to set up a national chain called ‘Prêt a Manger’, now a house hold name. In 1991 he moved to Sonoma County and worked his first harvest at Matanzas Creek Winery, where his passion for wine exploded. From 1992 to 1995, Dan worked in the cellar at Ferrari- Carano Vineyards & Winery, while completing several wine and viticulture courses. It was in one of these courses he met his future bride, Sonia Byck. Sonia & Dan were married in 1995.

In May 1996, the newlyweds began a two year journey throughout the world visiting and working in different areas within the wine industry. Their adventures included harvests in Burgundy, France, Stellenbosch, South Africa, Sydney, Australia and the Barossa Valley, Australia. In 1998 they returned home and Dan took on the duties of ‘winemaker’ for Paradise Ridge Winery.

Dan is a judge for numerous wine competitions in Northern California and moonlights as a wine educator at the Santa Rosa Junior College. In his spare time Dan enjoys cooking, gardening, wine & food tasting and pairing, home improvements and studying the wine industry. He also loves spending time with his 8 year old daughter Sophia and 6 year old son Jonathan.

For more info go to www.prwinery.com/!

Saturday, April 2, 2011

4/4 Dr. Levi Harrison on Common Hand Injuries, Palate, Linda Jordan from Ruth's Chris, Crave Marscapone

What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE:


We're Learning About Common Hand Injuries with Dr. Levi Harrison!

Dr. Levi Harrison, MD is an orthopedic surgeon with one of the fastest growing solo practices for hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder injuries in the Los Angeles Area. His training and expertise have been lauded throughout Los Angeles, CA and internationally. His practice uses state-of-the-art treatment protocols and cutting edge surgical techniques. Patients vary from the pediatric population to notable athletes, musicians, and celebrities. He is involved extensively in volunteer efforts with the free Glendale Healthy Kids Program and is a member of the Glendale Rotary Club.

Dr. Harrison is an active lecturer. He travels extensively and has a varied lecture series, including, Common Hand and Upper Extremity Injuries, Impact of Diabetes on Orthopedic Injury, as well as Health and Fitness: The Basics. Dr. Harrison is also an avid and enthusiastic athlete. He has participated in the Los Angeles Marathon, as well as a number of other races. His love of fitness extends from bowling, baseball, basketball, football, soccer, tennis, to mixed martial arts, bodybuilding and skydiving.

Dr. Harrison holds a Bachelor of Arts in French/Romance Languages and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Notre Dame. He received his Master’s Degree in Engineering focusing on Solid State Physics at Howard University. He received a diploma of French Perfection from the Alliance Française from the Université Catholique de L’ Ouest in Angers, France. Dr. Harrison received his medical degree from the University Of California At Davis and did his fellowship training at the internationally renowned Indiana Hand Center in Indianapolis.

For more info on Dr. Harrison, go to http://drleviharrison.com/!

Chef Octavio Becerra Tells Us About His Restaurant, Palate in Glendale, CA, and the Upcoming Santa Rita Hills Winemaker Event!

Palate is wine-centric, passionate, and down-to-earth. palate is a restaurant, a wine merchant, a cheese cellar, a tasting bar and lounge, and an eno-gastronomic library occupying the ground floor of a seven-story Bekins moving depot (circa 1928) turned wine-storage vault. palate is a vibrant gathering place in an inspiring setting designed to nurture a sense of community among lovers of delicious food and great wine and the farmers and wine producers so instrumental to the art of eating—and drinking. Created by chef + principal Octavio Becerra w/ partner wine director Steve Goldun, and general manager Ako Denis, palate is where food, wine and people meet.

Octavio’s culinary career was inspired by a chance meeting with chef Joachim Splichal during the summer of 1984. After that profound encounter, Splichal mentored his young protégé, first in the kitchen of Max Au Triangle restaurant in Beverly Hills, and then in France and Spain, where Splichal arranged for Becerra to work for two years in some of Europe’s two and three star Michelin restaurants. Shortly after Becerra’s return to the US, Splichal opened Patina Restaurant and Becerra again joined his mentor.

Just one year later, he was named executive chef of the renowned restaurant. Together, they then opened the first of the Pinot restaurants, Pinot Bistro in Studio City, with Becerra as the executive chef and partner.

Since then, Becerra has been instrumental in the success and growth of The Patina Group, playing a major part in the launches of each new restaurant. As Vice President, Chef and Co Founder of The Patina Group, Becerra supervised the daily operations of 12 of the 30 plus Patina Group restaurants. Becerra’s fingerprint on the culinary identity and brand of The Patina Group played a vital role in the evolution of The Patina Group.

Becerra has also accumulated accolades from the critics. The James Beard Foundation nominated him twice for “Rising Star Chef Of The Year”, he has been featured in Bon Appetit magazine, and Nations Restaurant News featured him as one of the nations “50 New Taste Makers.” After sixteen years, Becerra departed The Patina Group to pursue his own venture.

The Santa Rita Hills Winemaker Event is on April 3rd. For more info on Palate and on this event, go to www.palatefoodwine.com!

What's Cookin' Today Hour TWO:

General Manager Linda Jordan Tells Us What's New at Ruth's Chris in Pasadena!

Ruth's Chris in Pasadena is home to the What's Cookin' on Wine show on Monday nights - as well as the best steaks, ever (among other fine foods). Ruth's Chris Steak House serves the finest aged, corn-fed USDA Prime beef. Broiled in a trademark 1,800° oven & served on a plate heated to 500 degrees, your steak is presented sizzling hot at your table.

Additionally, the menu includes select fresh seafood & other meat entrees, including seasonal specialties like foie gras, buffalo strip & scallops. A variety of fresh-cooked vegetables, including seven kinds of potatoes, salads, homemade desserts & an extensive selection of over 100 domestic & imported wines complete your dining experience.

For more info on Ruth's Chris, go to http://www.ruthschris.com/Steak-House/7357/Pasadena

For more info on What's Cookin' on Wine with Michael Horn, go to http://www.crntalk.com/whats-cookin-on-wine!

George Crave from Crave Brother's Cheese Talks About His Award-Winning Marscapone!

Fans of Crave Brothers award-winning Mascarpone won’t be surprised to learn that the fresh sweet cheese has just earned its twentieth honor. In March, judges at the 2011 United States Championship Cheese Contest recognized Crave Brothers Mascarpone with the Second Place Award in the Open Class Soft Cheeses Category. With 98.85 points, Crave Brothers Mascarpone was the highest-scoring Mascarpone in the contest. Mascarpone, with its rich and creamy profile, is ideal for desserts, and can be mixed with whipped cream to use as a dip for fresh fruits.

In the Smear-Ripened Semi-Soft Cheeses Category, Crave Brothers Les Frères took the Third Place Honors. The rich rind-washed cheese is characterized by its earthy, fruity flavor. Les Frères makes a simple yet sensational presentation when served with fruits, bread and wine. This is the eleventh award the cheese has received.

The Crave Brothers—Charles, George, Tom and Mark— produce their artisan quality cheese at a farmstead cheese factory on their state-of-the-art family farm. The farm emphasizes conservation and sustainable practices. The 2011 United States Championship Cheese Contest is the largest dairy product competition in the U.S. The competition boasts a 120-year history, dating back to the first Wisconsin Cheesemakers Association contest in 1891. This year’s competition, held in Green Bay, WI, drew 1,602 entries from 30 states.

For more info, visit the website at www.cravecheese.com.

Don't forget to "Like" CRN's Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/crntalk And "Like" Our What's Cookin' Today Page, too! http://www.facebook.com/pages/Whats-Cookin-Today-Radio-Show/180963171920067

Friday, April 1, 2011

4/1 Kurtwood Smith, La Famiglia DelGrosso, Somerdale Cheese, Movie Guy Steve

What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE:

Kurtwood Smith Tells Us About His Role in CBS' CHAOS - Premiering April 1st!

CHAOS is a comedic drama about a group of rogue CIA spies in the Clandestine Administration and Oversight Services (CHAOS), who combat threats to national security amidst bureaucratic gridlock, rampant incompetence and political infighting. The team tackles high-risk foreign intelligence missions using manipulation, deception and wit to succeed. Rick Martinez was dismayed when his dream job as a spy was eliminated on his first day; however, CIA Deputy Director H.J. Higgins, a calculating mastermind and the head of CHAOS, recognizes Rick's unique skill set and places him as an unwitting mole inside the department.

Martinez joins the team under Michael Dorset, a psychologist-turned-CIA operative and a tactical genius motivated by pure paranoia. Working with Dorset is Scottish-born Billy Collins, decommissioned from the British Secret Service and deported from the United Kingdom; and Casey Malick, a 12-year veteran of the agency with an understated demeanor and the ability to transform into a "human weapon."

While Martinez's instincts about who he can trust are constantly tested, he seems to have a worthy confidante in the new Deputy Director, Adele Ferrer, who appears to have his best interest at heart. Or, should he rely on officer Fay Carson, an alluring agent and an expert at deciphering people's "tells"?

Attacking each assignment with unparalleled confidence and gusto, these operatives perform covert operations, exert political influence and eradicate all manner of evil - and that's just to survive the morning staff meeting.

About Kurtwood Smith: He spent eight seasons playing the popular Red Foreman on "That ‘70s Show." His additional television credits include "Worst Week," "Medium" and "Picket Fences," on the Network, "24," "House," "The X Files," "Star Trek: Voyager," "Deep Space Nine," "Newhart" and "The A Team," among many others. His feature film credits include "Dead Poets Society," "Girl, Interrupted," "Deep Impact," "A Time to Kill," "Under Siege 2: Dark Territory," "Boxing Helena" and "Robocop."

Smith also starred in a short film, "12:01 P.M.," about a man caught in a time warp, which was nominated for an Academy Award in the "Best Short" category.

Smith is very involved in his community. He participates annually in the Day of the Child, where he and his wife, Joan, met the foster child who is now a part of their family. Every year, he brings Christmas gifts to the children at United Care Group Homes, and he was named to the Celebrity Hall of Fame by the Winners Circle for Children for his support of Easter Seals. In the past, he has participated in the Special Olympics and supported the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Smith was born in New Lisbon, Wisconsin. Currently, he lives in Los Angeles with his wife. He has two children and two grandchildren. His birth date is July 3.

For more info on CHAOS, go to http://www.cbs.com/primetime/chaos/!

We're Talking To Michael DelGrosso From La Famiglia DelGrosso Premium Pasta Sauces!

Like the generations before them, the DelGrosso family believes that good meals can create everlasting memories and unforgettable experiences. Michael DelGrosso, 3rd generation family member, shares his tips, tricks and techniques for cooking family meals and bringing children into the process.

For the DelGrosso family, creators of La Famiglia DelGrosso Premium Pasta Sauces, few things are more important than gathering around the table for a family dinner – but, like all families today, they know all too well the challenges making this happen. But it is always important to bring your family back to the dinner table for a healthy meal and quality time together.

For more info, go to www.delgrossosauce.com!

What's Cookin' Today Hour TWO:

Alan Jenkins & April DeWinter Share Somerdale English Cheeses - Westminster Cheddar, Cotswold & Stinton Cheese!


Based in the Somerset town of Taunton, Somerdale is one of Britain's leading exporters of British cheese and dairy products. The company represents dairies throughout the UK and exports a vast range of quality cheeses from some of the largest Cheddar makers down to small, traditional farmstead dairies.

Regular shipments of British cheese and dairy products are made to all corners of the globe, by road, sea and air.

For more info, go to http://somerdale.co.uk/!


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:

  • Hop - An out-of-work slacker accidentally injures the Easter Bunny and must take responsibility for him as he recovers.
  • Source Code - Jake Gyllenhaal is part of a government experiment that enables him to cross over into the last eight minutes of another man's life.
  • Rubber - An angry and vengeful killer tire roams the California desert exploding people's heads with terrifying psychic energy.

Don't forget to "Like" CRN's Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/crntalkAnd "Like" Our What's Cookin' Today Page, too! http://www.facebook.com/pages/Whats-Cookin-Today-Radio-Show/180963171920067

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

3/30 Jamie Campbell Bower, Kitchen Nightmares, Dandy Don's Ice Cream, Master Sommelier Damon Ornowski

What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE:

Jamie Campbell Bower of "Twilight: New Moon," " Harry Potter" and "Sweeney Todd" Will Introduce Us To The Story of Camelot That Has Never Been Told Before!


Jamie Campbell Bower, one of Britain’s brightest young stars, has already appeared alongside an impressive list of prominent actors in a number of box office hits and critically acclaimed films. He first gained notice playing the role of Anthony in Tim Burton’s Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street. His performances as Caius-Volturi in Twilight: New Moon and Gellert Grindelwald in Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows, have secured this talented British actor’s career on both the big and small screens.

Now Jamie is starring as young King Arthur in Camelot, an original 10-part series premiering on Starz Friday, April 1, at 10:00PM ET/PT. Starz’ newest original series takes a distinctly fresh approach to one of the most enduring tales of all time. Brimming with love, power and betrayal amidst breathtaking locales (shot on location in Ireland), this is a modern, relatable, re-telling of the classic story of Camelot, which has captivated the public’s imagination since the Middle Ages.


Sheila Conlin, the Casting Director for KITCHEN NIGHTMARES Gives Us the Behind the Scenes Scoop on Gordon Ramsey and How They Choose Their Restaurants!

About the show: World-renowned chef Gordon Ramsay is back for a third course of the ultimate restaurant revival show where he steps out of his own five-star establishments and travels the country visiting some of the most unsanitary and unsuccessful restaurants in America.

For many, Ramsay is their last chance to help turn around their businesses or else they'll be forced to close their doors forever. Chef Ramsay will observe the inner workings of the chosen establishment to try and get to the root of the problem causing the business to fail.

Each week, Chef Ramsay will observe the inner workings of the chosen establishment to try and get to the root of the problem causing the business to fail. Along the way, he'll reveal the sometimes harsh and stressful realities of running a restaurant and wastes no time getting down to business as he uses his expertise and professional experience to try and help turn an empty restaurant into the most popular, sought-after venue in town.

With Ramsay's reputation on the line, he will demand absolute excellence and perfection from the owners as he gives them advice on everything from new signature menu items and updating the decor to customer service and staff changes. With some training and reinforcement, Ramsay hopes to help breathe new life into these failing eateries or else many will have to make some tough decisions as they continue to stumble toward closure.

With some training and reinforcement, Ramsay hopes to help breathe new life into these failing eateries...

For more info on the show, go to http://www.fox.com/kitchennightmares/!

What's Cookin' Today Hour TWO:

Is Ice Cream Your Passion? Dandy Don Will Be Telling Us About His FABULOUS Ice Cream - Available EVERYWHERE!!!

A music biz whiz who promoted (and garnered gold records for) artists such as The Beatles, Elvis, David Bowie, Cat Stevens and John Denver, Don Whittemore established Dandy Don’s HomeMade Ice Cream in 1981. Specializing in sundae bar catering and serving fine restaurants and markets in Southern California, Dandy Don’s HomeMade Ice Cream has been winning gold medals at the Los Angeles County Fair since 1996.



Damon Ornowski Tells Us What it Means to be a Master Sommelier and About His Company, Vin Divino!

Damon Ornowski is a Master Sommelier, one of only 105 in the United States. His hard earned title was awarded in 1996.

Vin Divino is an importer and national sales and marketing agent for a carefully and strategically selected portfolio of distinctive wines from around the world. All of their brands are real brands, tied to the land, cultivated and nurtured by people for whom making wine is a life choice.
Vin Divino currently represents wine brands from Italy, Austria and Chile.

For more info on this, go to http://www.vindivino.com!


Don't forget to "Like" CRN's Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/crntalkAnd "Like" Our What's Cookin' Today Page, too! http://www.facebook.com/pages/Whats-Cookin-Today-Radio-Show/180963171920067

3/31Cairo Caravan, "The Killing," Miss America 2011, Vision Cellars

What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE:

Blume Bauer, President of the Middle Eastern Culture & Dance Association, Tells Us About MECDA's Cairo Caravan 2011!

Thousands of belly dancers from across the globe will descend on Southern California June 3rd – 5th for MECDA’s Cairo Caravan, the annual celebration of all forms of belly dance hosted by the Middle Eastern Culture & Dance Association (MECDA).

Cairo Caravan is the largest gathering of belly dancers in the country, now in its 34th year. This year, the dancers shimmy aboard The Queen Mary in Long Beach, CA and their performances and celebrations are open to the public.

For more info, go to www.mecda.org/cairo

“Who Killed Rosie Larsen?” That's the Question Everyone Will Soon Be Asking! Veena Sud Will Tell Us Why!

Everyone has a past. Everyone has a secret. Everyone is a suspect in AMC’s newest original drama series, “The Killing,” which debuts with a two-hour premiere on Sunday, April 3 at 9pm ET/PT.

From writer, executive producer and show runner Veena Sud (“Cold Case”), the series tells the story of a murder and the subsequent police investigation.

A “triple threat” years before she conceived of “The Killing,” Veena Sud has been writing, producing, and directing film and television since the early 1990’s. Most recently, she was a writer and executive producer on the hit CBS police procedural “Cold Case.” Before that, she was a staff writer on ABC’s “Push, Nevada.” She directed MTV’s “Real World” as well as numerous documentaries and short films, many of which have been screened internationally. She worked as a print and broadcast journalist in New York City before moving into television writing and is an alumnus of New York University’s Graduate Film and Television program.

Based on the hugely successful Danish television series “Forbrydelsen,” “The Killing” is beautifully set in Seattle, giving the show a “Nordic noir” mood and tone. The 13- episode series is a gripping and compelling entrée into the murder mystery genre, with rich characters and addictive, suspenseful plot twists that go beyond the formulaic one-hour procedural dramas and will have viewers obsessing over “Who killed Rosie Larsen?” “The Killing” weaves together three distinct stories around a single murder, including the detectives assigned to the case and their suspects, the victim’s grieving family, and the local politicians connected to the case. As “The Killing” unfolds, it becomes clear that there are no accidents; everyone has a secret, and while the characters think they have moved on, their past still lingers.


Miss America 2011 Teresa Scanlan Shares Her Winning Beauty Tips!

When Teresa Scanlan from Nebraska was crowned as Miss America in January she was just 17 years old, making her the youngest Miss America in 78 years. But despite her youth, Miss America is a role model to women of all ages. As the new Miss America, Teresa will travel approximately 20,000 miles a month, changing her location every 24 to 48 hours. Miss America is completely dedicated to her charitable and community endeavors. She tours the nation, reaching out and getting involved in local communities from coast to coast.

MORE ABOUT TERESA SCANLAN: Teresa Scanlan was crowned Miss America 2011 on January 15, 2011 at the 90th Anniversary of the Miss America Pageant. Since her crowning she has been traveling the country appearing on numerous national and local television programs, making corporate appearances, and talking about MAO’s national platform, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, and her personal platform of Eating Disorders: A Generation at Risk.

As Miss America 2011, Teresa has the special honor of serving as the National Goodwill Ambassador for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals throughout her year of service. As the Goodwill Ambassador, Teresa will help to raise funds and awareness for the over 170 CMN hospitals across the country. As the youngest Miss America in 78 years, Teresa is showing the country she is a leader and a role model for youth today. Teresa’s passion for her platform, to combat eating disorders, stems from a friend who struggled with bulimia. She did research about eating disorders for her friend and discovered how rampant it was across the nation.

Teresa hopes to educate children and adults alike as to the signs and risks of eating disorders, as well as how and where to get help for themselves or a loved one. During 2011 pageant week, Teresa’s piano performance of “White Water Chopped Sticks” won her the Talent Award on the third preliminary night. She also plays guitar and sings. When her year is over, Teresa plans to attend Patrick Henry College to study Government. Her dream is to become an attorney and eventually a judge or President of the United States of America.

What's Cookin' Today Hour TWO:

We're Visiting with Celebrity Favorite Il Tiramisu with Restaurateur, Peter Kastelan!
Ivo & Peter bring over 30 years of Italian restaurant experience to Il Tiramisù, having owned and operated numerous successful restaurants here in the San Fernando Valley and on the Westside.
They have been featured in Los Angeles Magazine, The Los Angeles Times, The Daily News, Talk, and numerous other publications.
For more info on this restaurant, go to http://www.il-tiramisu.com/!

Vintner Mac McDonald Tells Us All About His Winery, Vision Cellars!
At age 12 Mac had his first taste of wine and vowed then and there that he wanted to make wine. After moving to California Mac would visit as many winery as he could in Sonoma, Napa and Mendocino.
One Day he met Mr. Charlie Wagner, owner of Caymus Vineyard, and folks that was when he started his education in the wine business. The Wagner Family shared every aspect of winemaking with Mac and encouraged him to get into the business.
VISION CELLARS is a Passionate Boutique Award Winning Winery specializing in Pinot Noir without compromise.
Established in 1995, the first release was the 1997 vintage. Their goal is to capture the essence of the Pinot Noir Grape. They are very proud of their accomplishments thus far and strive to continue their education and deliver consistency towards that goal. They're excited about their new venture which is the harvesting of "Ms. Lil's" Vineyard"
For more info on Vision Cellars, go to http://www.visioncellars.com/!

Don't forget to "Like" CRN's Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/crntalkAnd "Like" Our What's Cookin' Today Page, too! http://www.facebook.com/pages/Whats-Cookin-Today-Radio-Show/180963171920067

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

3/29 Beauty Detox, Justin Pope Biggest Loser, Pizzeria Ortica, Anne Amie Vineyards, Rabbi Irwin Kula - Miral

What's Cookin' Today Hour ONE:

Here's a Chance to Learn the Beauty Secrets of Your Favorite A-List Stars Including Jennifer Anniston, Drew Barrymore, Vince Vaughn and Josh Duhamel! Kimberly Snyder, Author of the Beauty Detox, is Sharing the Tricks of the Trade!

Every day we are bombarded with promises of how to look more beautiful by using the latest skin solution, eye cream, hair product or diet craze. So why do millions of women still struggle with acne, splotchy skin, brittle hair and stubborn belly fat? The truth is that beauty doesn't come from a bottle: it radiates from within. Snyder has helped dozens of A-list celebrities get red-carpet ready and now women worldwide can get the star treatment, too.

The Beauty Detox Solution, hailed "a must-read" by Dr. Oz, the book explains how a few simple diet changes-eating high-mineral fruits and vegetables and drinking enzyme-rich smoothies-can target trouble spots, rejuvenate skin and consuming an abundance of the right foods can help to permanently drop excess weight, regain a youthful glow, increase energy, and become your most beautiful and radiant self. Unlike diet and lifestyle books of the past, Kimberly discourages calorie-counting and food restrictions in favor of discovering the powerful connection between food, health and beauty.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: A magna cum laude graduate of Georgetown University, Kimberly Snyder has traveled the globe-to over 50 countries on six continents-to study health and beauty practices around the world. The go-to nutritionist for many of the entertainment industry's top celebrities, she has worked with clients on some of Hollywood's biggest film sets. She has been a guest and nutritional expert on many national television programs, including Good Morning, America, E!, Extra and Good Day, LA. She has also been featured in or served as a contributor to publications such as InStyle, Lucky, Elle, Nylon, Fitness, Women's Health, Hers, Real Simple, Us Weekly, OK!, In Touch, and Life & Style. Snyder splits her time between New York and Los Angeles.

For more information, please visit Kimberly at her blog: www.kimberlysnyder.net.

We're Talking with Justin Pope, the Latest Eliminated Contestant on NBC's The Biggest Loser!

Hailing from Logan, this Gym owner, city worker and bounty hunter wanted to lose weight. Being around as long as he can be for his family was Justin Pope’s primary motivation for trying out for “The Biggest Loser.” Justin was born and raised in Cokeville, Wyoming, the middle child among 10 siblings, and attended Ricks College in Rexburg, Idaho.

He knew he wanted to change his life when he was watching the show last year and cried because he weighed more than the contestants did. It was an “aha moment” for Justin, who says he “never cries,” but he didn’t realize, until that point, that that’s what he looked like too. Justin, who weighs 365 lbs., has always been heavy, and he and several family members have diabetes. Now married and the father of a 10-year-old son and 12-year-old daughter, the 39-year-old looks forward to shopping in regular stores, riding horses again, playing sports and being able to do more with his kids once he loses the weight.

For more info on the show, go to http://www.nbc.com/the-biggest-loser/season_5/!

Justin Miller, Chef de Cuisine at Pizzeria Ortica, Tells Us About Orange County’s Premier Authentic Neighborhood Italian Eatery


Pizza Ortica embodies a passion for Neapolitan-style pizza and the rich, rustic flavors found in southern Italy—succulent antipasti, vibrant salads, hand-made pastas and wood-fired pizza. Traditional cooking techniques are paired with fresh, locally sourced ingredients plus select wines and artful cocktails. Experience la dolce vita at Pizzeria Ortica in South Coast Plaza.

About Justin: Born and raised in Orange County, Justin Miller’s Southern California roots have instilled in him a sense of community and a relaxed approach to cooking. From classic French to an American steakhouse to large-scale catering, Miller’s experience and cuisine style have run the gamut. However, with an upbringing and philosophy that leans towards home-style, rustic food for the family, Miller has finally found his stride in simple Italian cookery.

For more info on this restaurant, go to www.pizzeriaortica.com!

What's Cookin' Today Hour TWO:

We're Taking a Trip to Carlton, Oregon to Visit with Winemaker Thomas Houseman at Anne Amie Vineyards!

When Dr. Robert Pamplin, one of Oregon’s most forward-thinking philanthropists and businessmen, purchased the historic Chateau Benoit Winery in 1999, his vision was to create wines of the highest quality to reflect his passion for excellence. To this end Dr. Pamplin has charged winemaker Thomas Houseman and winegrower Jason Tosch with the task of crafting extraordinary pinot noir. Thomas, Jason, and the rest of the crew are absolutely passionate about producing wines of the finest quality and have dedicated their lives to this quest.

Pinot reigns supreme at Anne Amie Vineyards with Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc forming the heart of the production. Complementing the pinot family is Old-Vine Estate Riesling and Müller Thurgau, planted in 1979. As with all great wines, it starts in the vineyards. They are fortunate to have some of Oregon’s best sites, all of which are Salmon Safe and LIVE certified. Their estate vineyards receive only the minimal required treatments and yields are dramatically reduced in order to give fruit with great depth and complexity.

Their estate vineyards are located in the rolling hills of the Yamhill-Carlton District and on the steep hillsides of the Chehalem Mountains, both nestled in Oregon’s verdant Willamette Valley. Their LIVE certified winery is located on their Yamhill-Carlton property, a few miles from both Lafayette and Carlton, Oregon.

For more info on this winery, go to http://www.anneamie.com/!

Rabbi Irwin Kula Discusses the Controversial New Film, MIRAL!

The Premise of the film: A chronicle of Hind Husseini's effort to establish an orphanage in Jerusalem after the 1948 Arab–Israeli War, the Deir Yassin Massacre, and the establishment of the state of Israel.

The Plot: Jerusalem, 1948. On her way to work, Hind Husseini (Hiam Abbass) comes across 55 orphaned children in the street. She takes them home to give them food and shelter. Within six months, 55 had grown to almost 2,000, and the Dar Al-Tifel Institute was born. In 1978, at the age of 7, Miral (Freida Pinto) was sent to the Institute by her father following her mother's death. Brought up safely inside the Institute's walls, she is naïve to the troubles that surround her. Then, in 1988, at the age of 17, she is assigned to teach at a refugee camp where she is awakened to the reality of the Palestinian refugees. When she falls for Hani, a militant, she finds herself torn between the First Intifada of her people and Mama Hind's belief that education is the road to peace.

The Controversy: The opening of Julian Schnabel’s new film, Miral, has stirred a lot of controversy about its portrayal of Israel. Some Jewish groups have labeled it “one-sided.” Rabbi Irwin Kula, who was a panelist at the film’s premiere at the United Nations, has been quoted as saying, “After 63 years of conventional diplomatic efforts, we’re pretty far away right now. The conflict has literally crowded out the possibility of empathy on all sides…As everyone knows you can’t have understanding without empathy. And this film is fundamentally a meditation on empathy.”

About Rabbi Irwin Kula: Listed in Newsweek as one of America’s “Top Ten” rabbis, Kula is the author of Yearnings: Embracing the Sacred Messiness of Life and a co-editor of The Book of Jewish Sacred Practices: CLAL’s Guide to Everyday & Holiday Rituals and Blessings. Kula is also the co-host of the weekly radio show, Hirschfield and Kula (KXL, Portland, OR). He is a blogger for the The Huffington Post and the WashingtonPost/Newsweek.com’s “On Faith” column, and has appeared on NBC’s The Today Show, The Oprah Winfrey Show, as well as on The O'Reilly Factor and Frontline. In 2003, Kula hosted a 13-part public TV series, Simple Wisdom with Irwin Kula, and had a public TV special called The Hidden Wisdom of Our Yearnings. He was also featured in the 2004 film, Time for a New God.

For more info on this film, go to http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1366409/!

Don't forget to "Like" CRN's Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/crntalkAnd "Like" Our What's Cookin' Today Page, too! http://www.facebook.com/pages/Whats-Cookin-Today-Radio-Show/180963171920067