07/08 LARRY LIPSON, GARY CANTER, CANTER'S DELI

LARRY LIPSON – AFFORDABLE WINE REPORT      

For fifty years Larry Lipson was the food critic for the Los Angeles Daily News and now reports from Florida 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.


GARY CANTER – CANTERS DELI 

Since 1931, Canter's has been serving up LA's finest deli cuisine. Voted the best pastrami by the LA Times and LA Weekly, Canter's prides itself on delivering the amazing experience that has kept its clientele returning over-and-over again for decades. This culinary landmark is lovingly managed by the third- and fourth-generations of the Canter family, who take a hands-on approach to ensure the highest quality in every aspect of the restaurant. Whether it's the freshly-baked breads, or the famous house-made pickles, Canter's always goes the extra mile to provide the authentic, traditional Jewish deli experience, which helped grow the restaurant from a small storefront to the massive operation that it is today. As inviting as its food, Canter's is also known for its welcoming ambiance, a perfect blend of contemporary comfort with the nostalgic charm of its stylish 1950's decor. Canter's continues to stand out as a unique dining experience that transports patrons back to the golden age of delis.

Canter's Deli is one of California's oldest delis. Located in Los Angeles' Miracle Mile District -the heart and soul of the entertainment industry - Canter's Delicatessen is a third-generation family-run business whose owners have an intense pride in their deli and a hands-on work ethic.

It all began in Jersey City, New Jersey in 1924. After losing a deli in the 1929 stock market crash, Ben Canter and his two brothers moved to California with just $500 in their pockets.Eager to succeed, they opened up a Canter Brother's Delicatessen in 1931 in Boyle Heights, the Jewish center of Los Angeles.

When the character of the neighborhood changed, Ben Canter's daughter, Selmo Udko, and her then husband, Harold Price, partnered with Ben Canter and his wife, Jennie, to purchase a prime location at 439 North Fairfax Avenue. And instead of calling it Canter's Brothers they called it Canter's Fairfax.

In 1953 this new team purchased the old Esquire Theatre at 419 North Fairfax and moved Canter's Deli just up the street to the larger location.

For over seventy-five years now this third-generation family-owned business has served food to locals, tourist, and celebrities alike. With its Art Deco décor and its trademark autumn leaves ceiling, this hangout has hardly changed in its over half century at its current location.

Canter's has also become a favorite whistle stop for hot political contests. Mayor Bradley, Governor Deukmejian, Rudy Giuliani, and Bill Simon have gone from booth to booth introducing themselves to our customers. And with CBS studios just up the block, celebrities frequent Canter's every day. Our catering department caters to many television shows and movies, as well as catering their wrap parties.

Over the years, many celebrities have passed through our doors. In the 50s Marilyn Monroe and Arthur Miller ate here, as did Jack Benny and Elizabeth Taylor. Other celebrity noshers include Sydney Poitier, Mel Brooks, Wilt Chamberlain, Charlene Tilton, Brooke Shields, Jacqueline Bisset, Catherine Oxenberg, John  Travolta, Prince, Stevie Wonder, Buddy Hackett, Olivia Newton John, Muhammad Ali, Monty Hall, Bill Cosby, David Brenner, Rodney Dangerfield, Dick Van Dyke, Shelly Winters, Elizabeth Montgomery, The Cars, Henry Winkler, and Greg Morris. The producer of Miami Vice, Michael Mann, wrote here for hours at a time when he was writing for Vegas. The Neil Simon movie, "I Ought to be in Pictures", with Walter Matthau was filmed here. Many celebrities who prefer to go "incognito" sneak in around 3:00 am for a late night nosh!

Canter's is also part of the larger Los Angeles community having received numerous awards from such institutions as the City of Hope, appreciation letters for outstanding and dedicated service, and letters from Jerry Lewis and the Muscular Dystrophy Association thanking Canters for donating food.

Canter's Delicatessen continues to be a Los Angeles landmark and late night hot spot, and, with the 2003 addition of Canter's Deli at Treasure Island in Las Vegas, we are committed to bringing the best delicatessen food to our noshers on the famed Las Vegas Strip and to Dodger fans at Dodger Stadium.

WWW.CANTERSDELI.COM

07/07 BILL BALLENTINE, WILLIAM COLE VINEYARDS, TESS MASTERS, THE BLENDER GIRL SMOOTHIES: 100 GLUTEN-FREE, VEGAN & PALEO-FRIENDLY RECIPES

BILL BALLENTINE – OWNER & WINEMAKER, WILLIAM COLE VINEYARDS  - NAPA VALLEY’S HISTORIC WILLIAM COLE VINEYARDS ADDED TO NATIONAL REGISTER  

Napa Valley’s Historic William Cole Vineyards added to National Register -  Ballentine family’s restoration and preservation efforts recognized

William and Jane Ballentine, owners of William Cole Vineyards announce that the U.S. Department of the Interior has recognized the historical and architectural significance of this mid-19th century stone winery and gardens by placing it on the National Register of Historic Places. As a result, the state of California also recognized its importance and placed the property on the California Register of Historical Resources.

The estate was part of an original 240-acre parcel purchased by John and Hannah Weinberger from Charles and Carolina Krug in 1868. The stone cellar and 3-story building completed in 1873 is the first stone winery in St. Helena. John was murdered by a disgruntled employee in 1882 leaving Hannah to become the first woman winery owner and winemaker. She ran the winery for 38 years until Prohibition closed the operation in 1920. After her death the property was parceled away leaving just the winery and homestead.

The historic winery property remained shuttered until 1938 when the Harrison family of San Francisco purchased the estate. They commissioned famed architect and relative Bourn Hayne to convert the top two levels of the dilapidated gravity-flow winery into a summer residence. In 1956 the Gonser family purchased the property and maintained a summer home until 1999 when the Ballentines acquired it.

The Ballentines spent the next five years painstakingly restoring the home and winery, as well as the renowned Thomas Church-designed gardens. Winemaking had been suspended since Prohibition when they began making wine and opened in 2004 under the name William Cole for William and his son, Cole. They created a special wine called Cuvée Claire for their daughter Claire.

MORE INFO ON WILLIAM:
The fourth generation in his family to make wine in Napa Valley, William Ballentine, Jr. has winemaking in his blood. Growing up among the vines, tending grapes and making wine is the dominant theme of Williams life, a legacy handed down to him by his father, grandfather and great grandfather. William grew up in St. Helena on the family vineyard, which serendipitously is across the street from William Cole Vineyards. He studied business and finance along with enology and viticulture at Fresno State University and graduated in 1987.

After working for Gallo Wine Company in the late 1980s, and then later with his father at Ballentine Vineyards, William grew eager to hone his cabernet harvesting and blending techniques. In 1998 he became winemaker for St. Clement Vineyards in St. Helena where he had the opportunity to work with many of the great winemakers. In 2001, William left St. Clement to concentrate on opening his own winery and on winemaking consulting for small, quality-driven growers, many of whom he has helped develop and build wineries throughout Napa Valley.

WILLIAMCOLEVINEYARDS.COM 


TESS MASTERS - THE BLENDER GIRL SMOOTHIES: 100 GLUTEN-FREE, VEGAN & PALEO-FRIENDLY RECIPES

Powerhouse blogger Tess Masters (aka, The Blender Girl) is back, taking smoothies to the next level with The Blender Girl Smoothies, a comprehensive guide that helps you blast your way to good health and blended bliss.

On her wildly popular recipe blog, Tess shares easy plant-based recipes that anyone can whip up quickly using a blender. Tess’s lively, down-to-earth approach has attracted over a million fans looking for quick and fun ways to prepare healthy food. Now, in The Blender Girl Smoothies, Tess presents 100 creative and delicious recipes designed to fit your every need, whether you want to detox, lose a few pounds, get energized, or guard against seasonal colds. Each smoothie has three optional boosters (like chia seeds, ginger, coconut oil, or wheat grass) that allow you to ramp up flavor, nutrient value, or both.

Featuring gorgeous photography throughout, a smoothie pantry that demystifies unusual ingredients, icons to identify smoothies that fit your particular dietary needs, and strategies for achieving smoothie success, this accessible handbook makes it fun and easy to find your perfect blend.

About Tess Masters:
Australian-born Tess Masters now lives in Los Angeles and is a cook, writer, actor, and voiceover artist. As a presenter and recipe developer, Tess has been featured in the Los Angeles Times, Washington Post, InStyle, Real Simple, Glamour, Chow, Epicurious, and All Recipes. She has also contributed to Vegetarian Times and Gorgeously Green.

07/06 KRISTINE LEAHY, NBC'S AMERICAN NINJA WARRIOR, CHEF CLAUD BELTRAN

KRISTINE LEAHY (LAY - HE) - CO-HOST, NBC'S "AMERICAN NINJA WARRIOR"

The popular “American Ninja Warrior” has started it seventh season on NBC. Tune in every Monday 8/7c

ON TONIGHT’S EPISODE - MILITARY ATHLETES COMPETE IN SAN PEDRO, CALIFORNIA IN FRONT OF THE HISTORIC BATTLESHIP USS IOWA.

THE USS IOWA WILL SERVE AS HOST FOR A VERY SPECIAL ALL MILITARY EDITION OF AMERICAN NINJA WARRIOR - The qualifying rounds continue with a very special all-military cast competing on the pier in San Pedro, California in front of the historic battleship USS Iowa. Competitors, including both active duty and retired military members, will tackle the six stage city qualifying course featuring two never-before-seen obstacles - the Log Runner and the challenging I-Beam Cross. Former Army National Guard Caption and six-time "American Ninja Warrior" veteran Ryan Stratis and active Navy Lieutenant Junior Grade Dustin McKinney return for another shot at the course. This round will be the last of the city qualifying rounds before the show heads to the city finals rounds. Contestants in this competition series will vie for a grand prize of $1,000.000 and the title "American Ninja Warrior." Matt Iseman and Akbar Gbajabiamila host. Kristine Leahy co-hosts.

ABOUT KRISTINE LEAHY
Kristine Leahy serves as co-host for NBC’s heart-racing obstacle course competition series “American Ninja Warrior.” Previously, Leahy spent two-and-a-half years working across various platforms in the CBS and Turner Sports family. She worked the college basketball sidelines for March Madness and was also a sideline reporter for CBS Sports Network’s college football and basketball packages.

In addition, she filled in as a host on CBS Sports Network’s show “Lead Off,” contributed to KCAL’s Dodgers pre-game show “Think Blue,” anchored CBS-LA’s “Sports Central” and covered the NBA playoffs, MLB playoffs and the Los Angeles Kings’ run to the Stanley Cup. Along the way, she developed a passion for bringing out the human side of athletes, and portraying their stories through one-on-one interviews and features.

She also made a bit of history by becoming the first woman in California to call a horse race at Hollywood Park.

Leahy grew up in Chicago during the height of Michael Jordan’s basketball reign and, at some point along the road to those six NBA titles, she got hooked. Not just on the Bulls, but on sports and competition. After high school Leahy moved east and earned a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from Boston University, where she was part of the team that created BUTV’s first sports talk show, and co-anchored that show for three years. From there, she worked as a reporter and host for New England sports radio station WEEI before moving on to the 17-time world champion Boston Celtics, where she spent two years as a host and in-house team reporter at TD Garden and for Celtics.com. After the Celtics, Leahy spent one year as the lead sports anchor for Fox Boston, where she covered both a Stanley Cup and a Super Bowl, before moving out west. She currently lives in Los Angeles and is on the board of the Variety Boys and Girls Club of Boyle Heights. She’d like to think that, wherever they are, she’s made Michael, Scottie, BJ Armstrong and the boys proud.

ABOUT “AMERICAN NINJA WARRIOR”
Matt Iseman returns as host, along with former NFL player Akbar Gbajabiamila (NFL Network). Kristine Leahy (CBS Sports) joins this season as co-host. Original episodes air exclusively on NBC with encore presentations on Esquire Network.

 The action-packed series follows competitors as they tackle a series of challenging obstacle courses in both city qualifying and city finals rounds across the country. Those that successfully complete the finals course in their designated region move on to the national finals round in Las Vegas, where they face a stunning four-stage course modeled after the famed Mt. Midoriyama course in Japan. The winner will take home a grand prize of $1,000,000. Although many have come close, no competitor has yet to achieve total victory and claim the prize.

“American Ninja Warrior” enjoyed an incredible sixth season that included breathtaking and history-making performances. Interest and enthusiasm continues to grow, with submissions up 10 times over last year. This season, more than 700 contestants are expected to come out to test their skills on the course. In addition to featuring some familiar classics such as the Warped Wall and the Salmon Ladder, the show will introduce 23 new obstacles this season, which call upon a competitor’s endurance, balance, upper body and grip strength.

“American Ninja Warrior” 2015 kicks off with the first of the city qualifying rounds in Venice Beach, Calif. From there, the show travels to Houston, Kansas City, Universal Studios in Orlando and Pittsburgh before moving onto the highly anticipated Las Vegas finals shows. The series is also teaming with the non-profit military veteran organization Got Your 6 to shoot two special episodes featuring an all-military cast of active-duty and retired personnel.

Based on the global hit “Sasuke,” from the Tokyo Broadcasting System Television, the original series is now in its 31st season in Japan. To date, only three contestants have completed the Japanese course.


CHEF CLAUD BELTRAN - SUMMER HAPPENINGS AND MENU ITEMS

ABOUT CHEF CLAUD BELTRAN:
Passion, commitment to excellence, integrity, humor and a sense of adventure these words begin to sum up Chef Claud Beltran. An exotic mix of Mexican and Lebanese heritage, Chef Beltran was exposed to various ethnic foods at an early age. After being mentored by Master Chef Thomas Keller, Chef Beltranset out to make his own name. For over a quarter century Claud Beltran has established himself as one of Los Angeles preeminent chefs. With his accomplished staff he creates culinary delights and fantastic designs that please all the senses. His experinence with multiple venues makes your event experience seemless and his excuiste palate for food and wine makes your meal one to top all others.

ABOUT THE EATERY ON ALLEN:
488 North Allen Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91106

Welcome to The Eatery by Claud & Co Catering in Pasadena. We are proud to feature a relaxed open-kitchen restaurant where once a month there’s a new theme of food. One month may focus on a region or culture of food and then the next month centers around specific ingredients indicative of the time period. We always follow the seasons and source local foods. The Eatery is an extension of our catering company. After so many years of catering and menu planning, we thought, “Why not share this idea with the public?”

The “& Co.” part of Claud & Co. to us is an important part of what we do. Our staff has worked together for a long time and we would like to welcome you to join our “family” for dinner. We look forward to meeting you.

Our unique dining experience will be available Tuesday through Friday evenings. We have saved Saturday through Monday nights for private dining of groups with twelve or more and private catering off site.

ABOUT CLAUD & CO CATERING:
Are you planning a special event? Perhaps an engagement party, a wedding anniversary, a 50th, 60th or a 21st birthday celebration? Let our private catering services help turn it into an event to remember.

WWW.BACCHUSKITCHEN.COM
WWW.EATERYONALLEN.COM
WWW.CLAUDANDCO.COM

07/03 CHEF BILLY PARISI, LEE GREENWOOD, GOD BLESS THE USA, CHEF WILLIAM BLOXSOM CARTER, THE CANYON VILLA, PASO ROBLES, KC AND THE SUNSHINE BAND, A CAPITOL FOURTH, PBS, STEVE EVANS

CHEF BILLY PARISI - SUMMER ENTERTAINING AND GRILLING TIPS FOR 4TH OF JULY

At 31 years of age, Billy Parisi has the education and experience of a seasoned chef. By the time he enrolled at the University of Missouri-Columbia in 2002, Parisi had already graduated from Arizona’s Scottsdale Culinary Institute—and logged several years as line cook, sous chef, and executive in some of the Midwest’s finest restaurants.

Throughout his four years at Mizzou, Parisi continued to nurture his passion for food, bartending at local Columbia establishments and cooking alongside Executive Chef Daniel Pliska at the prestigious University Alumni Club. He and Pliska competed to win the title of “Iron Chef of Missouri” in 2004. A Bachelors of Science in Communications / Video Production set the stage for Parisi’s roles as the faces of fixmyrecipe.com, Lowes Foods, Heinen’s Grocery Stores and Sears Holdings Corporations. Parisi has been featured on several national TV, radio and print mediums, including the Chicago Tribune, the Chicago Sun-Times, DIY network and Comcast On-Demand.

WWW.BILLYPARISI.COM
WWW.EASYHOMEMEALS.COM

COUNTRY MUSIC ICON LEE GREENWOOD - FROM THE BEST-KNOWN PATRIOTIC SONG, GOD BLESS THE USA, A KID'S BOOK IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR THE FIRST 

Lee Greenwood is an ICON in country music, with more than 30 albums to his credit. In fact, MCA released an album in 2013 called ICON.

With seven #1 songs & 25 charted singles his hits include:
“It Turns Me Inside Out”, “Ring On Her Finger Time on Her Hands”, ”She’s Lyin”, “I don’t Mind the Thorns if You’re the Rose”, “Dixie Road”, “Somebody’s Gonna Love You”, “Going Going Gone”, “You Got A Good Love Comin”, “Fools Gold”, and “Mornin Ride”. Several cross over hits include, “Touch & Go Crazy”, “IOU” and the duet with Barbara Mandrell, “To Me”. An additional duet with Suzie Boggus, “Hopelessly Yours”, was nominated for a Grammy. The CD “American Patriot”, recorded & released in 1992, went Platinum in 3 months.

Greenwood’s latest CD is: "I Want to be in Your World". He wrote three of the seven songs & plays saxophone on the original track, “Here Comes Love There Goes My Heart”. He also covered the Michael McDonald/Kenny Loggins ballad, “You Can Let Go Now.” McDonald is featured playing piano on the song.

Lee Greenwood has won numerous industry awards including, Male Vocalist of the year for the Academy of Country Music in 1983, two Male Vocalist of the Year awards from the Country Music Association, 1983 & 1984 and a Grammy for Top Male Vocal Performance in 1985 for “I.O.U.”. He also won CMA Song of the Year in 1985 for writing “God Bless the USA.” The song, “God Bless the USA” has been voted the most recognizable patriotic song in America. The singer knows first-hand what it’s like to have loved ones fighting for the freedom of all Americans as his father served in the Navy & the Merchant Marine in World War II. “USA” is now part of the film for Homeland Security shown when swearing in new citizens to the United States.

“God Bless the USA” went far beyond what Greenwood expected when he wrote it in the back of his tour bus in 1983. The song has been in the top five on the country singles charts three times (1991, 2001 and 2003), giving it the distinction of being the only song in any genre of music to achieve that feat. It was also #1 on the pop charts after 9/11/01.

Greenwood says; “USA is the song I always felt the need to write”. “I wanted to have something that would unite Americans from coast to coast. and to instill pride back in the United States. The song represents my family, my community and those men & women who have paid the price for the freedoms we all love & enjoy.”

In 2011, Beyonce offered her version of “God Bless the USA” as a download, with the proceeds going to the 9/11 firefighters fund in NYC. It has been performed by contestants on the Fox Network’s “American Idol” twice & was the winning song in the 2011 “Dancing with the Stars” competition on ABC. It is performed at all military and patriotic events throughout the year all across America. “USA” has also been in several movies.

Greenwood performs for many charitable events and gives his time & name to numerous organizations and fundraisers. He is the National spokesperson for “Products for Good”, the Honor 1 Campaign, and on the advisory board of the “Challenger Commission”. The singer is also a member of the National Endowment for the Arts Council, a Presidential appointment.

Music has always been a part of Greenwood’s life. He started playing the piano when he was seven and the saxophone at 12. In junior high, he started his first group called the Moonbeams. His sister Patricia was the piano player in the band. By the time, he finished High School he played most all the instruments in the orchestra and was the Drum Major for the marching band.

Greenwood was born in Los Angeles California & finished high school in Sacramento in June 1960. He passed on track & music scholarships to the College of the Pacific along with a professional baseball career to pursue his passion for music. He also elected to skip his high school graduation ceremony to begin work at the Golden Hotel & Casino in Reno Nevada with his own band, the “Apollos”. That turned out to be a great choice.

The California native was discovered in 1979 by Larry McFaden, who saw him performing in a show at the Nugget Casino in Sparks, Nevada. Larry was the bass player and bandleader for Mel Tillis. He brought the singer to Nashville and got him signed to the Halsey Agency, who booked the Oak Ridge Boys. He began working with producer Jerry Crutchfield who would record with Lee for the next 20 years.

“Choosing songs to record is always exciting,” says Greenwood. “I’m a songwriter as well and I love lyrics that have depth and emotion. I’m thankful for the many writers & artists who have contributed to my career”.

Lee and his wife, Kimberly, a former Miss Tennessee, fell in love on his 1989 USO/DOD tour. They were married in Nashville in 1992 and have two sons, Dalton and Parker.

Greenwood has also released a book in 2012, "Does God Still Bless the USA". It features a 30 day calendar, “Prayers of a Patriot” and includes two songs, written by Greenwood, free for download in the back of the book. One is a new version of “God Bless the USA” and the other is a Praise & Worship song, “Show me the Way”.

LEEGREENWOOD.COM


CHEF WILLIAM BLOXSOM-CARTER – FOUNDER, BEACON-VATEL HOSPITALITY GROUP & OWNER, THE CANYON VILLA - REFRESHING TIPS FOR GRILLING OVER THE FOURTH 

Chef William S. Bloxsom-Carter previously 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. 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.













ABOUT THE CANYON VILLA:
The Canyon Villa, where weary wine lovers revive

Like an Italian villa perched on a Tuscan hillside, the Canyon Villa bed and breakfast pampers wine lovers touring Paso Robles wineries or couples seeking a charming retreat. The Canyon Villa offers an intimate setting, lavish amenities, fine food and an ideal location.

At the Canyon Villa, we offer only four guest rooms, each uniquely decorated and each appointed with luxurious extras such as spa tubs and lush towels. You can enjoy your gourmet breakfast in the courtyard or our dining room.

We also offer a cozy great room for relaxing with other guests, and a wine tasting with hors d'oeuvres every afternoon between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. In the summer, enjoy your wine and appetizers in our lovely shaded courtyard, with its trickling fountain and evening breezes.

Beyond the elegant setting of our inn, take a leisurely stroll through our eleven acres while admiring the views. Visit the local wineries, and then enjoy an evening meal at one of Paso Robles' fine restaurants. The Canyon Villa is also the ideal bed and breakfast for day trips to other locales, such as Hearst Castle or Cambria's art galleries.

Indulge your love of wine or your love of each other. Plan a romantic getaway to charming Paso Robles, and plan to indulge in the intimacy and luxury of the Canyon Villa.

The Canyon Villa Bed & Breakfast
1455 Kiler Canyon Road
Paso Robles, CA 93446
805-238-3362

ABOUT CATERING SERVICE:
CELEBRATIONS, GATHERINGS & RETREATS - Make your event an unforgettable experience. The natural beauty of your home, the finest wines and some of the most amazing culinary offerings make Beacon Vatel the ideal caterer for your special occasion. Our professional services provide an ideal experience for corporate retreats and business, family and friend gatherings. The Beacon Vatel Culinary team under the leadership of Chef Carter can create the perfect menu for your event, from light passed hors d’oeuvres, a full set buffet, or a multi-course menu, all paired with your wines or wines from Chef Carter’s extensive network of wine purveyors.

WWW.BEACONVATEL.COM
WWW.THECANYONVILLA.COM


KC, FROM KC AND THE SUNSHINE BAND – THE 35TH ANNUAL “A CAPITOL FOURTH” ON PBS 

‘A Capitol Fourth’ celebrates 35 years as America’s national Independence Day celebration

The 35th-annual “A Capitol Fourth” will air on PBS on Saturday, July 4th, from 8:00 to 9:30 p.m. Eastern.
The 2015 edition of “A Capitol Fourth” will kick off the country’s 239th birthday with an extravaganza that puts viewers front-and-center for the greatest display of fireworks in the nation.  Bradley Whitford will host the show—while Barry Manilow will open and close the program with a special patriotic medley.

Broadcast live from the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, “A Capitol Fourth” this year will also feature performances by: Alabama; Nicole Scherzinger; Hunter Hayes; Meghan Linsey; KC and the Sunshine Band; Lang Lang; and Ronan Tynan—with the National Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Jack Everly.  In addition, Robert Davi will pay tribute to Frank Sinatra—in celebration of his 100th birthday.

The 35th-annual “A Capitol Fourth” will air on PBS on Saturday, July 4th, from 8:00 to 9:30 p.m. Eastern.

ABOUT KC AND THE SUNSHINE BAND:
KC and The Sunshine Band aims to serve a single purpose: to create instant happiness through music. For over 40 years the group has done just that, topping the charts with seven No. 1 singles and three triple platinum albums, winning three Grammy® Awards, including Album of the Year for the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack, an American Music Award, and becoming the first act since The Beatles to score four No. 1 pop singles in one 12-month period in 1976. KC and The Sunshine Band’s unique meeting of Caribbean, pop, R&B and Latin inspired infectious grooves and their distinctive Sunshine Sound, impacting the world over and teaching them how to boogie. The band’s infectious sound has given life to countless ad campaigns, and over 200 TV commercials, movie soundtracks, TV shows and video games, including the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing in 2014 and KINGSMAN: The Secret Service in 2015. In 2001, KC was honored with the National Association of Recording Arts and Sciences Governor’s Award, the highest honor given by a chapter of the Academy.  With a new album, Feeling You! The 60s available on iTunes, Amazon and in stores nationwide in 2015, KC and The Sunshine Band continues to create music that spans many generations. The band has defined dance music and forever influenced music with its timeless sound and mission of getting people out of their seats to celebrate, which is still being fulfilled today.



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.

07/02 CHEF WILLIAM BLOXSOM-CARTER, BEACON-VATEL HOSPITALITY GROUP, THE CANYON VILLA, TRAVEL EXPERT STEPHANIE OSWALD

CHEF WILLIAM BLOXSOM-CARTER – FOUNDER, BEACON-VATEL HOSPITALITY GROUP & OWNER, THE CANYON VILLA - REFRESHING TIPS FOR GRILLING OVER THE FOURTH 

Chef William S. Bloxsom-Carter previously 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. 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.













ABOUT THE CANYON VILLA:
The Canyon Villa, where weary wine lovers revive

Like an Italian villa perched on a Tuscan hillside, the Canyon Villa bed and breakfast pampers wine lovers touring Paso Robles wineries or couples seeking a charming retreat. The Canyon Villa offers an intimate setting, lavish amenities, fine food and an ideal location.

At the Canyon Villa, we offer only four guest rooms, each uniquely decorated and each appointed with luxurious extras such as spa tubs and lush towels. You can enjoy your gourmet breakfast in the courtyard or our dining room.

We also offer a cozy great room for relaxing with other guests, and a wine tasting with hors d'oeuvres every afternoon between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. In the summer, enjoy your wine and appetizers in our lovely shaded courtyard, with its trickling fountain and evening breezes.

Beyond the elegant setting of our inn, take a leisurely stroll through our eleven acres while admiring the views. Visit the local wineries, and then enjoy an evening meal at one of Paso Robles' fine restaurants. The Canyon Villa is also the ideal bed and breakfast for day trips to other locales, such as Hearst Castle or Cambria's art galleries.

Indulge your love of wine or your love of each other. Plan a romantic getaway to charming Paso Robles, and plan to indulge in the intimacy and luxury of the Canyon Villa.

The Canyon Villa Bed & Breakfast
1455 Kiler Canyon Road
Paso Robles, CA 93446
805-238-3362

ABOUT CATERING SERVICE:
CELEBRATIONS, GATHERINGS & RETREATS - Make your event an unforgettable experience. The natural beauty of your home, the finest wines and some of the most amazing culinary offerings make Beacon Vatel the ideal caterer for your special occasion. Our professional services provide an ideal experience for corporate retreats and business, family and friend gatherings. The Beacon Vatel Culinary team under the leadership of Chef Carter can create the perfect menu for your event, from light passed hors d’oeuvres, a full set buffet, or a multi-course menu, all paired with your wines or wines from Chef Carter’s extensive network of wine purveyors.

WWW.BEACONVATEL.COM
WWW.THECANYONVILLA.COM


AWARD-WINNING, INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL EXPERT STEPHANIE OSWALD - PATRIOTIC TRAVEL TIPS

Award-Winning, International Travel Expert Stephanie Oswald Provides us with some Patriotic Travel Tips on Everything from Where to Go, What to Pack and Getting the Most for Your Dollar!

With Fourth of July fast approaching, what’s on your travel itinerary?  There are certain icons of freedom that every American should visit at least once in his or her lifetime. No matter how many times you’ve seen pictures of these shrines to our nation’s heroes and heritage, it’s a star-spangled thrill to witness them in person. They appeal to our patriotism and love of liberty and remind us what it means to be an American.  Award-Winning International travel expert Stephanie Oswald is available for live interviews with some suggestions on the best patriotic getaways.  From coast to coast, she will discuss everything from the top destinations to how to get the best deals for your perfect patriotic getaway.

MORE ABOUT STEPHANIE OSWALD: 
As the Editor-in-Chief of travelgirl magazine, a Web Correspondent for The Weather Channel, and seasoned travel correspondent for CNN, she has reported on everything from stress-relieving spa treatments and unique escapes around the world to the human side of a hurricane. She is the co-founder of travelgirl -- the first national travel magazine to launch after the events of 9/11. The travel and lifestyle publication was chosen by industry leader Mr. Magazine as one of the "most notable" launches of 2003. Oswald is a native New Yorker who spent 13 years globetrotting as CNN's travel correspondent and host of the weekend program, CNN Travel Now. In 2003, she also launched a groundbreaking series called The Weather Channel Road Crew that showcased the "fun" side of weather. In 2004, she filed written and audio reports during Hurricanes Ivan and Jeanne as the very first Web Correspondent for Weather.com.  As anchor and correspondent for CNN Travel Now, a weekly program on worldwide destinations, travel trends and cuisine, Oswald specialized in adventure travel, filing reports from Europe, South America, Asia and the Caribbean. One series took her into the depths of Papua New Guinea for a rare and eye-opening look at the Huli Wigmen. Her reports also appeared on CNN Headline News, CNN in-flight programming for Delta Air Lines, CNN International and the CNN Airport Network. Immediately after 9/11, she filed human interest stories on the crisis for CNN, and covered the impact on the travel industry during live studio reports on CNN Headline News.

07/01 LEE GREENWOOD, GOD BLESS THE USA, LARRY LIPSON

COUNTRY MUSIC ICON LEE GREENWOOD - FROM THE BEST-KNOWN PATRIOTIC SONG, GOD BLESS THE USA, A KID'S BOOK IS NOW AVAILABLE FOR THE FIRST 

Lee Greenwood is an ICON in country music, with more than 30 albums to his credit. In fact, MCA released an album in 2013 called ICON.

With seven #1 songs & 25 charted singles his hits include:
“It Turns Me Inside Out”, “Ring On Her Finger Time on Her Hands”, ”She’s Lyin”, “I don’t Mind the Thorns if You’re the Rose”, “Dixie Road”, “Somebody’s Gonna Love You”, “Going Going Gone”, “You Got A Good Love Comin”, “Fools Gold”, and “Mornin Ride”. Several cross over hits include, “Touch & Go Crazy”, “IOU” and the duet with Barbara Mandrell, “To Me”. An additional duet with Suzie Boggus, “Hopelessly Yours”, was nominated for a Grammy. The CD “American Patriot”, recorded & released in 1992, went Platinum in 3 months.

Greenwood’s latest CD is: "I Want to be in Your World". He wrote three of the seven songs & plays saxophone on the original track, “Here Comes Love There Goes My Heart”. He also covered the Michael McDonald/Kenny Loggins ballad, “You Can Let Go Now.” McDonald is featured playing piano on the song.

Lee Greenwood has won numerous industry awards including, Male Vocalist of the year for the Academy of Country Music in 1983, two Male Vocalist of the Year awards from the Country Music Association, 1983 & 1984 and a Grammy for Top Male Vocal Performance in 1985 for “I.O.U.”. He also won CMA Song of the Year in 1985 for writing “God Bless the USA.” The song, “God Bless the USA” has been voted the most recognizable patriotic song in America. The singer knows first-hand what it’s like to have loved ones fighting for the freedom of all Americans as his father served in the Navy & the Merchant Marine in World War II. “USA” is now part of the film for Homeland Security shown when swearing in new citizens to the United States.

“God Bless the USA” went far beyond what Greenwood expected when he wrote it in the back of his tour bus in 1983. The song has been in the top five on the country singles charts three times (1991, 2001 and 2003), giving it the distinction of being the only song in any genre of music to achieve that feat. It was also #1 on the pop charts after 9/11/01.

Greenwood says; “USA is the song I always felt the need to write”. “I wanted to have something that would unite Americans from coast to coast. and to instill pride back in the United States. The song represents my family, my community and those men & women who have paid the price for the freedoms we all love & enjoy.”

In 2011, Beyonce offered her version of “God Bless the USA” as a download, with the proceeds going to the 9/11 firefighters fund in NYC. It has been performed by contestants on the Fox Network’s “American Idol” twice & was the winning song in the 2011 “Dancing with the Stars” competition on ABC. It is performed at all military and patriotic events throughout the year all across America. “USA” has also been in several movies.

Greenwood performs for many charitable events and gives his time & name to numerous organizations and fundraisers. He is the National spokesperson for “Products for Good”, the Honor 1 Campaign, and on the advisory board of the “Challenger Commission”. The singer is also a member of the National Endowment for the Arts Council, a Presidential appointment.

Music has always been a part of Greenwood’s life. He started playing the piano when he was seven and the saxophone at 12. In junior high, he started his first group called the Moonbeams. His sister Patricia was the piano player in the band. By the time, he finished High School he played most all the instruments in the orchestra and was the Drum Major for the marching band.

Greenwood was born in Los Angeles California & finished high school in Sacramento in June 1960. He passed on track & music scholarships to the College of the Pacific along with a professional baseball career to pursue his passion for music. He also elected to skip his high school graduation ceremony to begin work at the Golden Hotel & Casino in Reno Nevada with his own band, the “Apollos”. That turned out to be a great choice.

The California native was discovered in 1979 by Larry McFaden, who saw him performing in a show at the Nugget Casino in Sparks, Nevada. Larry was the bass player and bandleader for Mel Tillis. He brought the singer to Nashville and got him signed to the Halsey Agency, who booked the Oak Ridge Boys. He began working with producer Jerry Crutchfield who would record with Lee for the next 20 years.

“Choosing songs to record is always exciting,” says Greenwood. “I’m a songwriter as well and I love lyrics that have depth and emotion. I’m thankful for the many writers & artists who have contributed to my career”.

Lee and his wife, Kimberly, a former Miss Tennessee, fell in love on his 1989 USO/DOD tour. They were married in Nashville in 1992 and have two sons, Dalton and Parker.

Greenwood has also released a book in 2012, "Does God Still Bless the USA". It features a 30 day calendar, “Prayers of a Patriot” and includes two songs, written by Greenwood, free for download in the back of the book. One is a new version of “God Bless the USA” and the other is a Praise & Worship song, “Show me the Way”.

LEEGREENWOOD.COM

LARRY LIPSON – AFFORDABLE WINE REPORT      

For fifty years Larry Lipson was the food critic for the Los Angeles Daily News and now reports from Florida 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.

06/30 TECH EXPERT JEANA TAHNK, ADAM LEE, SIDURI WINES

LIFESTYLE & TECH EXPERT JEANA TAHNK - SUMMER GADGETS & TRAVEL ESSENTIALS 

Memorial Day is over; School’s out. Summer is in full swing and you might find yourself wondering how to make the most of the extra hours of summer. From planning trips, to staying busy and having fun, Lifestyle & Tech Expert Jeana Lee Tahnk – of Top Tech Mom – is here with some great summer gadgets and entertaining tips to create the best summertime memories with friends and family.

During the tour, Jeana will look at a few ideas and tips that will help with summer travel and entertaining! Plus Jeana will share her tips for being tech savvy, and her favorite advice on how to make your summer traveling experience a positive one!

About Jeana Lee Tahnk:
Jeana Lee Tahnk is a tech expert and mother who knows about the best gadgets, gear and tips for making life easier, organized and more fun for her and her family. She contributes to Mashable, The Huffington Post, Parenting, Parents and others.

TOPTECHMOM.COM


ADAM LEE OF SIDURI WINES - CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF MAKING OREGON PINOT IN CALIFORNIA

 One of California’s longest running producers of Oregon Pinot Noir, Siduri Winemaker Adam Lee Looks Forward to Expanded Presence in Willamette Valley 

Santa Rosa, Ca – June 4, 2015. Siduri winemaker Adam Lee is celebrating his 20th year making Oregon Pinot Noir in California.  A specialist in single vineyard PInot Noir from top growing regions, Lee is looking forward to producing his 2015 Siduri Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir, and 2015 Willamette Valley Pinot Noir as he has since 1995, at his small urban winery in Santa Rosa Ca.      

“Making Pinot Noir from Oregon’s Willamette Valley,” said Lee “is one of the most challenging, but also most rewarding, experiences of my winemaking career.”

The Journey. Today, Oregon is considered one of the premier growing regions in the world, but 20 years ago, Lee, together with his winemaking partner and wife Dianna Novy Lee, did not know that. So, how does a winemaking team firmly rooted in California’s prized Pinot Noir vineyards turn their attention to Oregon? As Lee explains, it was a happy accident.

The Wines. The Lees have produced wines from the Willamette Valley every year since, making Siduri one of the longest running California producers of Oregon wine. They are second only to their good friend Kathy Joseph, of Fiddlehead Cellars, who has produced Oregon Pinot Noir at her Lompoc winery since 1991.

Each year, Siduri produces two appellation blends, the Willamette Valley Pinot Noir and Chehalem Mountains Pinot Noir.  In the best vintages, they also produce single vineyard Pinot Noirs from Arbre Vert, Hawk’s View, Muirfield, and Shaw Mountain Vineyards. Compared to California Pinot Noirs, the Oregon Pinots tend to be lighter in body and lower in alcohol, presenting a more elegant profile.

The Challenge.  As delicate as the wines, is the balancing act required to coax the best from Oregon’s challenging weather. Harvest-time rains can shorten the season and arrest ripening, making for more inconsistent vintages than California. By focusing on single vineyard bottlings, the Lees have been able to mitigate much of that inconsistency.

That said, challenges abound. Lee explains “Oregon is a challenge on a whole different level than California.  For example, we often thin our vines down to one cluster per shoot early in the growing season just to get the remaining fruit ripe.  I think that challenge is part of the reason why only a few California winemakers produce Oregon Pinot Noir.”

The Future: For Lee, however, the rewards far outweigh the challenges. Now part of Jackson Family Wines, he is excited for the future of Siduri’s Oregon program.  Siduri has access to new and exciting vineyards, including the Jackson family’s Zena Crown, an 80 acre vineyard in the Willamette Valley and Gran Moraine Vineyard, a 200-acre vineyard in the Yamahill-Carlton district.

20th Anniversary Oregon Wine Tasting: To mark their 20th year in Oregon, Siduri is hosting a special wine tasting event on Wednesday July 8th at their Santa Rosa winery, featuring a who’s who of Oregon producers and their newest wines. Lee believes this is a first-of-its-kind Oregon tasting to be hosted by a California winery. A private trade tasting will take place from 1-4pm with a public consumer tasting following from 5-7pm. Both tastings will feature Oregon themed artisan nibbles and cheeses. For more on the event please visit, www.siduri.com/events

About Siduri: Founded in 1994 by winemakers Adam and Dianna Novy Lee, Siduri Wines produces single vineyard Pinot Noir from the most acclaimed growers and vineyard sites in California and Oregon. Each barrel of Siduri Pinot Noir is vinified separately by lot, clone, yeast and cooper; blended personally by the Lees; and bottled unfiltered and un-fined to retain the distinct character of each vineyard site. Siduri is unique in the depth and breadth of their single varietal focus. The Lees’ Novy Family Wines label – a collaboration with Dianna’s Texas-based family – focuses primarily on Syrah and other Rhone varietals. Both labels are produced at the Lee’s small warehouse winery in Santa Rosa, which is open to visitors by appointment daily. Learn more online at http://www.siduri.com and http://www.novyfamilywines.com or on Facebook and Twitter.

About Jackson Family Wines: Jackson Family Wines (JFW) is a family-owned and run company that crafts award-winning wines of distinct character and quality. With a focus on sustainable viticulture practices, responsible vineyard and natural resource management and unparalleled winemaking, the family’s collection comprises more than 40 renowned wineries, primarily in California and Oregon. JFW also crafts fine wines from Australia, Chile, France, Italy and South Africa. Founded in 1982 by wine pioneer, entrepreneur and philanthropist Jess Jackson, JFW and its wineries are led by Chairman Barbara Banke and the Jackson family. Learn more online www.jacksonfamilywines.com.

06/29 MARIO ARMSTRONG, FORD, LESLEY TELLEZ, EAT MEXICO

DIGITAL LIFESTYLE EXPERT MARIO ARMSTRONG - THE FUTURE OF TRANSPORTATION & INNOVATION | KEY TRENDS THAT WILL IMPACT THE FUTURE OF MOBILITY, TECHNOLOGY, AND TRANSPORTATION 

Mario Armstrong will take you inside Ford’s Research and Innovation Center in Palo Alto, California during the automaker’s annual futuring and “Further with Ford” trends conference. The Palo Alto lab opened in January and is now the automaker’s hub for excellence in Silicon Valley.

Ford is taking connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, big data and the customer experience to the next level in order to change the way the world moves amidst a dramatic shift in how people live, work, shop, and commute.
Mario Armstrong will discuss some of the innovative mobility experiments Ford is developing at the lab, the future of “self-driving cars” and how they will impact drivers, riders and pedestrians crossing the street, what Ford technologies can help you drive better today, and the differences between how Gen X, Millennials and Gen Z think about vehicles.

Remote Repositioning: The experiment tests the ability of a person to remotely control a vehicle over LTE, moving a golf car via a remote control system which resembles a video game.  The vehicle doesn’t need a driver. The outcome could be a more affordable and effective way to share or park vehicles using a remote “valet.”

Info Cycle: For this experiment Ford added sensors to a bike which collects data and allows engineers to learn about the bike’s environment as it’s moving – such as how bikes and vehicles share the road. The information gathered aims to bridge the gap between cars and bikes and uncover the problems in how they share roads.

Perpendicular & Parallel Park Assist and Park Out Assist: Available in the all-new Ford Edge, two ultrasonic sensors and electric power-assisted steering helps drivers parallel and perpendicular park. The sensors measure the gap between two vehicles to determine if there is enough room for the vehicle while the driver controls the accelerator and brakes.
Pro-Trailer Backup AssistPro-Trailer Backup Assist: A segment-first technology available in the 2016 F-150, this makes the challenge of backing up a trailer easier than ever by letting the customer steer the trailer with a control knob while the truck steers its wheels and limits vehicle speed.

How Gen Z, Millennials & Gen X consider cars:  New research on how Gen Z and Millennials are thinking about driving, buying cars and more.

ABOUT MARIO ARMSTRONG
As an Emmy Award winning host, Mario appears regularly on TV and radio. Mario is the Digital and Technology Commentator for NBC’S Today Show, HLN, Fuse and CNN. In addition, Mario has appeared on the following shows: Dr. Oz, Steve Harvey, Rachael Ray, Nate Berkus, Katie Couric, and Inside Edition. On radio, Mario is a technology contributor for NPR’s Morning Edition and Tell Me More programs.
 Armstrong’s mission in life is to better people’s lives by educating them on how to use technology to enhance their personal and professional lives.

FORD.COM


LESLEY TELLEZ – AUTHOR, EAT MEXICO - SHOWS THE VAST DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE FOODS OF INLAND MEXICO AND  COASTAL AREAS IN HER BOOK EAT MEXICO

Eat Mexico is a culinary love letter to one of the biggest cities in the world—a chaotic, vibrant place where residents eat from sidewalk grills and stands, and markets and casual restaurants serve up fresh, hot food daily. In this book, journalist Lesley Téllez—who also runs her own food tour company in Mexico City—takes you through the city's most classic dishes, offering recipes from her favorite haunts on the streets, in city markets, and in small, homestyle fondas.

Many of these dishes are items Americans may not recognize: the football-shaped, bean-stuffed corn tlacoyo, topped with cactus and salsa; the tortas bulging with turkey confit and a peppery herb called pápalo; beer-braised rabbit, slow-cooked until tender. The book ends on a personal note, highlighting the creative, Mexican-inspired dishes—like roasted poblano oatmeal—that Lesley cooks at home in New York with ingredients she came to know in Mexico.

With more than 100 recipes, on-location photography and text written in a friendly, personal tone, Eat Mexico is a must for anyone who loves Mexico, its food and unique urban culture.

ABOUT LESLIE
Lesley Téllez is a writer, Mexican-food lover, entrepreneur and mom. Originally from Southern California, she lived in Mexico City from 2009-2013, which launched her deep love for Mexican food and culture. Lesley owns the Mexico City-based street food tourism company Eat Mexico and has a diploma in Mexican gastronomy from the Escuela de Gastronomía Mexicana. When not writing, Lesley loves cooking, reading, traveling and hanging out with her son, Tomás.

WWW.EATMEXICO.COM

06/26 IRON CHEF’S JEHANGIR MEHTA, THE JAMES BEARD FOUNDATION’S BETTER BURGER PROJECT, STEVE EVANS, THE MOVIE GUY

RESTAURATEUR AND IRON CHEF’S JEHANGIR MEHTA – THE JAMES BEARD FOUNDATION’S BETTER BURGER PROJECT

To celebrate America’s favorite food (tasty burgers!), the James Beard Foundation is taking the growing culinary trend of the mushroom blend and kicking-off the  Better Burger Project across the country.

In a nutshell, the Better Burger Project is an in-restaurant menu promotion challenging chefs to create a “better burger” by blending ground meat with finely chopped, fresh cultivated mushrooms, for a more delicious, healthy, and sustainable burger. Chefs can sign up to participate throughout the challenge at BetterBurgerProject.org and America can find participating restaurants to visit and order a Better Burger on the website as well.

ABOUT THE BETTER BURGER PROJECT:
Burgers are one of the most creative culinary platforms; chefs have been innovating and evolving the dish for years. Now, through this special menu promotion, you can create a “Better Burger” by blending ground meat with finely chopped mushrooms. Your burger will be better for your guests—with unmatched flavor and inherent nutrition benefits—and our environment at large.

Blending meat and mushrooms in a burger doesn’t just improve flavor, texture, and juiciness. It also:

• Reduces calories, fat, and sodium while adding important nutrients like vitamin D, potassium, and B vitamins.
• Enhances your menu with sustainable, plant-based menu items.
• Allows your guests to enjoy the taste and flavor of the burgers they love—and feel good about eating a little better.

Better Burger Project participants can add diced mushrooms at any ratio to their blend. Even just a 25- to 50-percent addition has incredible nutritional impact.

ABOUT CHEF MEHTA:
Chef Jehangir Mehta opened Graffiti in the East Village of New York City in 2007 after being highly acclaimed at New York City restaurants including Aix, Compass, and Jean-Georges.

It all started when, much to the amusement of his family’s maids and cooks, Mumbai-born Jehangir took an interest in the goings-on of the kitchen. After he voiced a desire to pursue a career in the culinary arts, Jehangir’s family put their full support behind him and sent him to the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York. Jehangir thrived at the CIA with the foundation he acquired at the Institute of Hotel Management, Catering, Technology and Applied Nutrition in Mumbai.

After his first job at L’Absinthe in New York in 1996, he landed a position he truly longed for at Typhoon Brewery, where he worked as the pastry chef to the brilliant James Chew of Vong fame. From there it was a short yet logical jump to Jean-Georges in 1997. The following year, Jean-Georges Vongerichten selected him to open his new restaurant, Mercer Kitchen, quickly to become one of the hottest destinations in New York. Desiring a change of pace from the high volume of Mercer Kitchen, Jehangir accepted a position to work with Rocco di Spirito 1999 at Union Pacific, and in 2001 he joined Jean– Georges colleague Didier Virot who was opening his own restaurant. Following a short-lived but highly acclaimed run at Virot, Jehangir solidified his reputation for creating unorthodox, intellectually driven desserts as pastry chef of Compass. During this time, he extended his partnership with Didier Virot, and in 2002 opened the Upper West Side culinary destination Aix.

In 2003, Jehangir started his event management business through an online site partistry.com. The same year he started Candy Camp to encourage children aged between 4 and 14 to appreciate the complex ingredients in food, by preparing simple savory and sweet dishes. In 2007, Jehangir opened his restaurant Graffiti, quite simply an extension of the man and his mission, and released his first cookbook “Mantra the Rules of Indulgence” (Harper-Collins).

At his restaurant Graffiti, Jehangir gets to present food that is nothing short of inspiring. From his 50 square foot kitchen he produces some of New York’s most exciting dishes, which have been featured in not only traditional food magazines but also Vogue, and the New Yorker. Over the years, Jehangir has been seen on many national television programs including Martha! and on the Food Network.

In August 2009, Jehangir was a contestant on Iron Chef America where he competed against Iron Chef Morimoto in "Battle Coconut,"and beginning October 4th 2009 Jehangir will be a contestant on the Food Network’s The Next Iron Chef.

Jehangir’s cultural heritage fills him with endless inspiration, including Ayurveda, and his favorite ingredients, fruits and spices. Now it is only left to his imagination as to what he will conquer next.

WWW.JEHANGIRMEHTA.COM
WWW.JAMESBEARD.ORG


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.

06/25 JAMIE JENSEN, ROAD TRIP USA, MATT DE FINA, DE FINA FAMILY CELLARS, CYSTIC FIBROSIS

AUTHOR AND ROAD TRIP EXPERT JAMIE JENSEN - ALL NEW AND UPDATED EDITION OF HIS BESTSELLING ROAD TRIP USA

It’s time to hit the road this summer and plan the Ultimate Road Trip!

Launch of the new edition of Road Trip USA and the brand new Moon Road Trip series with four new regional titles
The great American road trip is the highlight of many travel bucket lists—and with the release of the newest edition of the best-seller Road Trip USA: Cross-Country Adventures on America’s Two-Lane Highways, travelers can make this the summer they cross that trip off the list.  In addition, Moon Travel Guides is proud to be expanding the Moon Road Trip series with four new regional titles: Moon Florida Road Trip, Moon California Road Trip, Moon Pacific Northwest Road Trip, and Moon Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip—plus five more titles scheduled in the coming year.

About the classic Road Trip USA:  
Now in its seventh edition, Jamie Jensen's best-selling Road Trip USA is better than ever. Inside, you’ll find cross-country routes and road-tested advice for adventurers who want to see the parts of America that the interstates have left behind. Jensen also includes mile-by-mile highlights celebrating major cities, obscure towns, popular attractions, roadside curiosities (if you’re looking for the world’s largest jackalope, you’re in luck), local lore, and oddball trivia. With full coverage of more than 35,000 miles of classic blacktop, Road Trip USA will take you off the beaten path and into the heart of America.

About Jamie:
Jamie Jensen was immersed in road trip culture from an early age. He grew up in Southern California, back when freeways were new, cheeseburgers cost a quarter, and every beach had a beachfront amusement park. After a three-year stint bumming around the country, making hay in Kansas, and ghostwriting a book for the Grateful Dead, Jamie set to work researching and writing Road Trip USA. Since then he’s traveled more than 400,000 miles in search of the perfect stretch of two-lane blacktop. When not crisscrossing the country by car, he rides his bike whenever possible. Jamie lives with his wife, Catherine, and twin boys, Tom and Alex, in New York City, at the east end of the Lincoln Highway. Jamie Jensen lives in New York, NY.


MATT DE FINA - WINEMAKER, DE FINA FAMILY CELLARS

Matt De Fina was born with Cystic Fibrosis- a fatal, genetic disease that predominantly effects the lungs. Cystic Fibrosis causes the body to produce abnormally thick and sticky mucus. This thick, sticky mucus obstructs the airways, causing decreased lung capacity and decreased lung function. The mucus also serves as a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, which lead to life-threatening lung infections, as well. Matt was diagnosed with this disease at 20 days old and his parents were initially told that he wouldn’t live to see his 4th birthday. Despite this grave prognosis, Matt’s parents were determined to see him beat this disease and live a normal, happy life. Thus, they were very disciplined and dedicated in their approach, making sure that Matt never missed a medication or treatment, received proper nutrition, and saw his Pulmonologists at Oakland Children’s Hospital on a regular basis. Despite their efforts, Matt was still hospitalized many times throughout his childhood due to exacerbations of his Cystic Fibrosis. However, Matt and his parents were able to beat that prognosis and by the time he was in Elementary School, his disease began to stabilize and he began to flourish in school, sports, and other activities. Throughout Elementary, Middle, and High School, Matt was very active and played numerous sports, including Baseball, Basketball, Tennis, and Track & Field. His Cystic Fibrosis was under control.

ADULT LIFE
After high school, Matt attended college at California State University, Fresno, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree, was inducted into the Order of Omega National Honor Society, and was the President of his fraternity: Sigma Phi Epsilon. A few years later, Matt also earned an MBA degree from St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. While at Fresno State, Matt met the woman of his dreams- Denise. They began dating and were married in 2003. For much of his adult life, Matt’s health remained stable and he was able to work full-time in the medical industry. In his career, he worked as an EMT, a Pharmaceutical Sales Rep, and a Medical Device Sales Rep. He and Denise also enjoyed traveling and eventually discovered Napa Valley. Matt and Denise fell in love with Napa Valley from the moment they first visited. They became fascinated with wine and dreamed of one day owning their own wine brand. For many years, Napa Valley was just an annual or bi-annual vacation, but in 2010, a new job for Matt allowed them to relocate to the San Francisco Bay Area. They chose to settle in none other than Napa County. However, it was around this time that Matt’s health began to decline quickly. Matt began seeing the CF medical specialists at Stanford University Hospital for his care. Despite doing everything that he was supposed to –  taking his medications, doing his treatments, exercising, taking in proper nutrition – his Cystic Fibrosis was worsening. By April of 2012, Matt’s lungs had deteriorated to the point that he was on oxygen full-time, his lung function had declined to 22%, and he was forced to go on disability from work. His doctors at Stanford told him that he only had 2 years left to live unless he received a double-lung transplant.

TRANSPLANT AND LIFE AFTER
In April of 2012, Matt was added to the transplant list to await a double-lung transplant at Stanford. On May 15 of 2012, Matt received that miraculous phone call- that there was a donor for him. A new pair of lungs had become available and were a perfect match for Matt. He was rushed to Stanford and received his double-lung transplant. His surgery lasted roughly 6 hours and went incredibly well. He remained in the ICU for only 1 ½ days before being transferred to a step-down unit. The nurses and doctors at Stanford were amazing and did a wonderful job taking care of Matt from start to finish! Matt was discharged just 9 days after his surgery and began the long road of recovery. Since that miraculous event, Matt’s life has done a complete 180. From being barely able to breathe and relying on oxygen therapy 24/7 to now having 100% O2 saturation on room air and being able to breathe deeply with his new lungs, Matt knows better than anyone just how precious it is to be able to simply BREATHE. Receiving a new pair of lungs has enabled Matt to do things that were previously very difficult, if not impossible. Simple things- such as taking a shower, getting dressed, tying his shoes, and simply walking- had become next-to-impossible. Matt couldn’t even pick up and hold his own daughter, Gracie, without getting incredibly short-of-breath. However, with his new lungs Matt could suddenly do all of these things and more!

THE WINE BUSINESS
Once Matt received a new lease on life, he and Denise promptly began living with the philosophy that life is too short, and thus, we shouldn’t take any breath for granted. Therefore, we should enjoy every moment and live life to the fullest with every breath we take.  With renewed health and vitality, Matt and Denise De Fina figured now was the best time to realize their dream of launching their own wine brand. With all of the ‘breathing’ issues that Matt has faced in his lifetime, the De Fina’s wanted to use this as an opportunity to not only make delicious wine, but to spread awareness of Cystic Fibrosis, Organ Donation, and Transplantation. Without Matt’s double-lung transplant, he wouldn’t be here today. De Fina Family Cellars would not exist. Thus, you wouldn’t be able to enjoy our fabulous wine and everyone would lose out! So…if you aren’t already a registered organ donor, please become one today! Who knows—your organs could lead to more fabulous wine someday!

DEFINAFAMILYCELLARS.COM