12/31 - Vito's ,

Vito - Vito's Pizza - Los Angeles




Tried Vito's for the first time recently. We arrived late afternoon and the place was hopping. Only about half the tables were full, but apparently they either do lots of deliveries, or pick up phone orders, or both. The phone was ringing off the hook. From what I could tell there were 3-4 people working. Vito himself manned the pizza oven, another guy in the kitchen appeared to be taking care of the non-pizza orders, and the front counter guy took orders and answered the phones. I ordered the cheese and sausage pizza with extra sausage, my friend got the sausage and peppers sub. After placing our order I noticed that the few open tables needed bussing. I asked the counter guy if the busser could come out. He kinda shrugged and laughed a little and said something like 'yeah - busser, I'm the busser, I'll get to it as soon as I can.' I asked if it'd be OK for me to bus the table. Sure. As I cleaned off the table Vito made joking comments about my chutzpah. We laughed. Then he asked what I'd ordered, and commented that he'd make sure my pizza was great. True to his word the pizza was PERFECT A crisp crust with just the right combination of cheweyness and crispness. Just the right amount of perfectly seasoned sauce, and flavorful~savory Italian sausage. And the whole glorious thing was perfectly cook. My friend downed his sausage and pepper sub, and then lit into the pizza. Upon finishing my friend said 'I can't believe how much I ate, but I couldn't stop myself, it was all so good' All in all, it's a cute little place with a fun crew and great food. I've lived in Los Angeles for eons, and pretty much I'd resigned myself to the fact that good pizza just doesn't exist here - no longer. We have Vito's!

12/30 - Dan Marino, Chris Heywood, David Zwartendijk,

Dan Marino - Owner - Jackson Hole Buffalo Meat Company

The Jackson Hole Buffalo Meat Company, based in beautiful Jackson Hole Wyoming, was established in 1947 as the "Jackson Cold Storage Company". We've seen a lot over the years, but we've stuck around because of a simple principle - we put pride into our products. Whether you buy from our online store, or stop into our shop in the heart of Jackson, you'll get the same great product and friendly service that's become nothing short of legendary. For 60 years we've specialized in only the finest 100% Buffalo and Elk meat products. Our Buffalo graze naturally on open range grasslands in a ranch setting. The last 60 days, they are corn fed to increase tenderness and to promote a sweet and rich flavor. Our Buffalo is hand selected and cut to ensure the finest flavor. We carefully package our product using our 3 Step Packaging Process that guarantees freshness from our door to your table.

Chris Heywood - New Year's Eve in Time Square

Every year as the clock nears midnight on December 31st, the eyes of the world turn once more to the dazzling lights and bustling energy of Times Square. Anticipation runs high. New Year's Eve at the symbolic center of New York City has become more than just a celebration - it's a global tradition. The world holds its breath...and cheers as the clocks strike twelve. As the famous New Year's Eve Ball descends from the flagpole atop One Times Square, an estimated one million people in Times Square, millions nationwide and over a billion watching throughout the world are united in bidding a collective farewell to the departing year, and expressing our joy and hope for the year ahead. Each year, millions of eyes from all over the world are focused on the sparkling Waterford Crystal Times Square New Year's Eve Ball. At 11:59 p.m., the Ball begins its descent as millions of voices unite to count down the final seconds of the year, and celebrate the beginning of a new year full of hopes, challenges, changes and dreams.

The Ball is a geodesic sphere, 12 feet in diameter and weighing 11, 875 pounds, built to withstand the stresses of high winds, precipitation and temperature fluctuation to brightly shine over 400 feet above Times Square throughout the year. For 2011, Waterford Crystal has designed 288 new “Let There Be Love” crystal triangles featuring a romantic pattern that blends a modern cascade of hearts with diamond cutting. 288 triangles are emblazoned with last year's "Let There Be Courage" design of a ribbon medal defining the triumph of courage over adversity; and 1,152 triangles sparkle with the "Let There Be Joy" design of an angel with arms uplifted welcoming the New Year. The remaining 960 triangles are the original "Let There Be Light" design of a stylized radiating sunburst. The 2,688 crystal triangles are bolted to 672 LED modules which are attached to the aluminum frame of the Ball. The Ball is illuminated by 32,256 Philips Luxeon Rebel LEDs (light emitting diodes). Each LED module contains 48 Philips LEDs - 12 red, 12 blue, 12 green, and 12 white for a total of 8,064 of each color. By mixing these four colors, the Ball is capable of creating a palette of more than 16 million vibrant colors and billions of patterns producing a spectacular kaleidoscope effect atop One Times Square.

David Zwartendijk - Miss MeringueMiss Meringue is the leading company in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Australia for over 12 years. We've been in business since 1997 with a manufacturing facility in San Marcos, California and restaurants stretching from San Diego to San Francisco. We pride ourselves on producing the most delicious and authentic French inspired desserts. From Meringue Cookies, Specialty Cookies, Madeleines, and Food Service Desserts, we manufacture for all major U.S retailers, club stores, restaurants, hotel chains and key accounts. Brighten your day with our delicious vanilla meringue cookie in an array of rainbow colors. The Rainbow Vanilla Meringue Cookies are a colorful treat for the calorie conscious person. These meringue cookies are perfect for entertaining or adding a little pizazz to your favorite dessert!



FOOD NEWS - BEER BOTTOM FILLER CLICK HERE TO WATCH

Pouring beer is an art. When filling a glass from the tap, it takes skill to know just what angle to hold the glass at to prevent too much foam, and just where to stop filling to ensure the beer comes as close to the top as possible without spilling over. It’s a bit like getting the perfect pump at a gas station, only far tastier. This remarkable device is set to start a revolution in how beers are poured, especially at public events like football games. Rather than having one person in charge of filling one cup at a time, and having to take the time to ensure the customer is getting enough beer and not a cup of foam, this invention allows the vendor to casually fill four cups at a time. This is Bottoms Up, a brilliant invention by GrinOn Industries that’s sure to be a hit. The vendor places the cups on this mechanism and, like magic, the cups fill from below until stopping just a little below the rim: plenty of beer, little foam, no spillage. That’s amazing by itself, but seeing just how fast one can serve multiple beers using this rather than a typical tap is mind-boggling. The big question, of course, is how it works. You can see from the video linked below that the cups seem to lock into their respective slots before being filled with their payload. There’s a magnet located in the bottom of the cup that can be pushed upward, and falls back into a slot on the bottom when released. When pushed up, the nozzle below fills it with beer. When removed, the magnet bonds to its slot at the bottom of the cup, preventing the beer from escaping. Of course, one imagines that these cups will cost more than your standard cheap-o plastic cup. The neat thing that they’ve done to counter this is to use the removable magnet as a form of advertising; it can be used just like a normal refrigerator magnet and can have a logo or text advertising just about anything, that money serving to cover some of the extra overhead for the special cups. For more fun ways to get your beer fix, check out the Mac G3 Beer Server, the Beer-Fetching Robot, and the iPad Beer Monitor.

12/29 - Homer Hickman, Larry Lipson,

Homer H. Hickam - "The Dinosaur Hunter"

Homer H. Hickam, Jr. was born on February 19, 1943, the second son of Homer and Elsie Hickam, and was raised in Coalwood, West Virginia. He graduated from Big Creek High School in 1960 and from the Virginia Polytechnic Institute (Virginia Tech) in 1964 with a BS degree in Industrial Engineering. A U.S. Army veteran, Mr. Hickam served as a First Lieutenant in the Fourth Infantry Division in Vietnam in 1967-1968 where he won the Army Commendation and Bronze Star medals. He served six years on active duty, leaving the service with the rank of Captain. Hickam has been a writer since 1969 after his return from Vietnam. At first, he mostly wrote about his scuba diving adventures for a variety of different magazines. Then, after diving on many of the wrecks involved, he branched off into writing about the battle against the U-boats along the American east coast during World War II. This resulted in his first book, Torpedo Junction (1989), a military history best-seller published in 1989 by the Naval Institute Press.


Larry Lipson - "Costa Rica Correspondent"

Former LA Daily News Food Columnist (50 Years) Larry Lipson is live and direct from his research Institute in Costa Rica. He will talk about wine food and the good life and will have comments From Frommer's Travel Guide: " Wine: Although some European immigrants have been experimenting with wine grape cultivation in Costa Rica, no one has succeeded. The government did sponsor an experimental effort several years ago, but eventually most of the vines were ripped out. If you see Costa Rican wine for sale, it is almost surely from imported Chilean grape juice that is then processed in Costa Rica--the quality is terrible and it is--at least so far--not worth buying except as a total novelty."

12/28 - Faisal Qureshi , Heather Cabot,

Faisal Qureshi CEO - OffermaticConsumers spend so much money over the holidays... wouldn't it be nice to get money back for the items you are buying and have it automatically credited back to your credit card? Well, now you can! Offermatic is often described as the “freak love child of Mint, Groupon and Blippy”. The service just launched last week and it’s already getting lots of attention. Here’s how it works: Offermatic revolves around getting good deals at local merchants and from national chains, but it isn’t just another deals site. Instead, you link up your credit or debit card to the service, which then automatically analyzes your purchases and offers you deals based on your shopping history. The fun part is you never have to print the coupon—the discount is automatically credited to your credit card as you purchase the discounted item. It’s a very interesting model, because it means that Offermatic can offer highly targeted deals based on the sort of things you are actually buying. Seeing a lot of movies lately? Offermatic might send you 50% off on tickets from Fandango. Just did some shopping at the Home Depot? They might send you a discount— or a competitor like Lowes can pay to send you an offer and try to nab a customer from a rival. Once you’ve signed up for the service, using it is pretty simple. Offermatic will periodically email you offers based on your recent transactions. If you spot one you like, you click a link, and your credit card will then have that offer automatically ‘loaded’ on top of it. Then, when you make a purchase at whatever merchant or brand made the offer, your discount will automatically be applied to the transaction. There’s still a very small amount of user effort involved (you have to click on the emails for the offers you’re interested in), but it’s pretty low friction. So far, the system has been working. Offermatic says that its tests show that top retailers are yielding a 14.5% conversion rate, which is far higher than usual.

Heather Cabot Web Life Editor - Yahoo

Michael Jackson took the top spot as Yahoo!'s #1 most searched subject last year,
but this year's top search may surprise you! Did Lady Gaga, Justin Beiber or Kim Kardashian captivate online searches? Or was America fascinated by a news story like the Chilean Mine Accident or the BP Oil Spill? Or did the iPad blow everything out of the water?

12/27 - Ophelia Patworth Blakely, Vincent Brunetti,

Ophelia Patworth Blakely - Ophelia's Garden Inn - Syracuse, NY

This beautiful 1925 English Country Estate sits on three acres of lawn and gardens. Designed by the famed architect, Dwight James Baum*, the Inn abounds with extraordinary architectural detail. With over 5,000 square feet of living space, 12 sets of French doors and a setting out of a storybook, it's hard not to relax in this wonderful atmosphere. Trees caress the property, inviting the deer from dusk to dawn. The rooms are spacious with private baths and period antiques. Everything makes you feel like you have gone back in time. Although nestled in a secluded and private setting, the Inn is just minutes from Downtown Syracuse. The property is surrounded by old trees, pass arboretum is across the street, and the pond will invite you to sit and enjoy the sounds or trickling water. Play darts, Bocce ball, croquet or just sit on the patio and enjoy a glass of wine.

Vincent Brunetti - FB Dir - Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa

Experience the ancient spirit of aloha from our luxury Hyatt Waikiki hotel. The past and the future are united in fresh and surprising ways in this world-famous neighborhood (known in Hawaiian as “spouting waters”) that was once the playground for Hawaiian royalty. Hyatt Regency Waikiki offers the ultimate combination of personalized service, oversized, luxurious guestrooms, inspired culinary creations and a perfect location close to all that embodies our island. Sink your toes in legendary sand, or stroll Diamond Head (Leahi), Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Aquarium from our spectacular Hawaii Waikiki hotel. Relax, refresh and recharge with a visit to Na Ho’ola Spa, our Hawaii hotel spa, or awaken your adventurous side with surfing lessons on Waikiki Beach. Treat your staff to a meeting wrapped up in an island getaway. Set in the heart of Waikiki, our Honolulu convention center hotel features expert staff, premier meeting facilities and cutting edge resources. Reward yourself with a stay at our AAA Four Diamond island paradise, and experience the true meaning of Hawaiian hospitality.

12/24 - Don Whittemore, Lennie DeRosa,

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM ALL OF US AT

CRN DIGITAL TALK RADIO - HAVE A WONDERFUL HOLIDAY WITH FRIENDS & FAMILY



MAY THE JOY OF THIS SEASON BE WITH YOU



Lennie DeRosa VP - Hilltop Steak House - Saugus, MA

In 1961 Frank Giuffrida bought a club in Saugus that he converted into a western-style steakhouse. Over the years Frank became known as the "king of the Hill" serving over three million customers annually. Now over 50 million meals later The Hilltop is still known today for it's generous portions at a great value winning numerous awards. In October 1994, Dick Monfort of High Country Investor, Inc. acquired the assets of the Hilltop in Saugus. Mr Monfort's family business "MONFORT BEEF" supplied the Hilltop its beef needs for over 40 years until the his family business was sold to the large food conglomerate "CONAGRA". Mr Monfort is still active in the beef industry with feeding lots of over 100,000 cattle as well as being on the board of directors of other major food companies. Since being purchased by High Country Investor, Hilltop continues to be recognized as one of the leading independent restaurants in the Northeast winning such awards as #1 Steakhouse (City search 2003), #2 Independent Restaurant in the country (Restaurant & Institutions Magazine 2002) and many more. In 1996 Hilltop expanded its business to include five large function rooms for all types of family events and business meetings as well as elegant weddings.


"Dandy" Don Whitttemore - Ice Cream Maven

Yes, Virginia, there is a Dandy Don. He sits quietly in his office smoking a cigar as you read this. So who is he? Below you can read the biography of this man and the company he built. Don Whittemore is a funny man with a huge personality who loves to make people happy. Good thing he makes ice cream, huh? Once Upon A Time (circa 1962 – 67), Don was a stand-up comedian. He worked under the name Don Harris in Atlanta, Miami Beach & Newport, KY. If you have some free time one day, ask him to tell you some jokes. The next part of this biography starts just after that but still long long ago, in the Time Before CDs. Don was in the record business. He convinced DJs to play records by Frank Sinatra, Elvis, The Beatles, David Bowie, and Cat Stevens (to name a few). Some of those records went gold. In 1981 Don and his lovely wife Linda (pregnant with their second child) bought an ice cream shop in Tarzana, California called The Creamery. They thought it would be a gold mine. They were wrong. So they worked their keesters off, got into the wholesale business, and began a catering division. This is how the catering division of their company—now with over 1,000 customers—got its start.

12/23 - Mike Bovill, Jennifer Rudolph,

Mike Bovill - www.kriskringle.com

Stop by the Elf Cabin and visit Keebler and his pals. They will tell you their stories of what they do up in the North Pole. They will describe the activities and may tell a little joke or two. From there you can stop by the Post Office and visit Rudy the post master. Rudy will explain how he handles the massive amount of letters that come thru the post office. Of course 99.9% are earmarked right to Santa's house. Inside the post office you can send Santa an email along with reading the front page of "The North Pole Newspaper". Parents can also find out this is the place in which they can ask Santa to send their child a personalized letter direct form Santa himself Next stop Santa's house: get ready for some fun here. This is Santa's favorite room in the house. This is where Santa reads all the emails at his desk. So make sure you click on the computer to send Santa an email. If you look closely you will see Rudolph outside Santa's window, he is always peeking in on Santa, waiting for the big day. Parents can click on the phone and ask Santa to give your child a personalized phone call. But most of all, Santa's favorite thing to do is the Naughty or Nice. Just click on the naughty or nice sign and enter the information, name, zip code and house number. Santa needs this information to make sure he is talking to the right person. But I'm sure all of you have been good for Santa this year. Next Stop: Tracking and Weather Station. Take a look at the weather up at the North Pole. It seems like it is always snowing up here and the temperatures are all sub freezing. So if you are planning a trip up here to visit Santa make sure you dress warm. But most of all make sure you come back on Christmas Eve to watch Santa take off. He will be traveling at super sonic speeds. Make sure you are in bed when Santa gets close to your house. Next Up: Rudolph and his pals, just a click on any of the reindeers and they are going to tell you a great story. Some of them will tell you how they received there names and some of the reindeer will tell you what there job activities are. Kringle Krafts up next: Inside here you can be creative as an artist. You will find many different templates to make. But be creative and design and color in your own way. All designs are special in there own way. We have also included a page of Christmas clipart that you can print and cut out to help you with your designs. Lastly the game room: Santa is always playing games in here. He loves the frog game and to this day has not figured this out. If you do, please send and email to Santa to let him know. When you are tired you can sit back and listen to some of Santa's favorite Christmas music, and there are words there to sing along with. Also you can read some of Santa's favorite stories. His favorite is "Twas the night before Christmas"

Jennifer Rudolph: Director of Communications - Colorado Ski Country USA

Colorado Ski Country USA (CSCUSA) was established in 1963 with the purpose of promoting skiing in Colorado and the Rocky Mountain Region, in the face of east coast and European competition. Forty years later, CSCUSA is the marketing, communications and public policy arm for 22 ski and snowboard resorts in Colorado. Overall, we are here to spread the good word about Colorado's exceptional skiing, riding in our winter playground. Colorado's location in the middle of the country continues to attract skiers and riders from around the globe to Colorado's majestic mountains. The state's central location makes it an accessible place for skiers to vacation no matter where you call home. With over 28,000 skiable acres, Colorado Ski Country USA's 22 member resorts play host to some of the world's best skiing and snowboarding. Planning a ski vacation can be challenging and overwhelming at times. So, we have simplified the tasking of planning your next Colorado ski vacation right here on our website. Below is a list of some popular destinations for you to explore and activities to consider when planning your next Colorado getaway.

12/22 - Jerome E. Scott, Gurpareet Bains, Larry Lipson,

Jerome Elston Scott - "Anderson's Cross"

Director, writer, actor Jerome E. Scott has worked steadily since his arrival in Los Angeles. Possessing an unforgettable face Jerome was literally put to work his first day in Hollywood. That film was Lethal Weapon 4 directed by Richard Donner. Jerome can also be seen in Charlie’s Angels, She’s All That, American Pie, Galaxy Quest and Whatever It Takes. Instantly recognizable, Jerome has built a considerable fan base from his numerous appearances on Buffy The Vampire Slayer, Sister Sister, Roswell, Smart Guy, Boston Public, Undeclared, and Freaks and Geeks. Jerome is a founding member of Illumination Pictures, which was born out of his idea and admiration for the old Hollywood studio system. Believing what is in front of the camera is only as good as what’s behind, Jerome put pen to paper and wrote Illumination Pictures first feature Anderson’s Cross. A first time writer/director and co-star in Anderson’s Cross, Jerome will again take the writer/director reins on his second feature film Prep School.



Gurpareet Bains "Indian Superfood"

Gurpareet Bains is an Anglo-Indian chef, nutritional therapist and pioneer of culinary concept - the 'Indian Superfood'. He has worked around the world and made international news headlines with one of his creations - billed as the "world's healthiest curry". His first book - Indian Superfood - was released in July 2010, published by Absolute Press Bains is a pioneer of Indian Superfood. Indian Superfood is based on the "unique concept of bringing together... the nation’s favourite Indian food, with superfoods and superspices – foods and spices recognised for their health-promoting and medicinal properties, beyond the basic nutritional function".



Larry Lipson - "Costa Rica Correspondent"

Former LA Daily News Food Columnist (50 Years) Larry Lipson is live and direct from his research Institute in Costa Rica. He will talk about wine food and the good life and will have comments From Frommer's Travel Guide: " Wine: Although some European immigrants have been experimenting with wine grape cultivation in Costa Rica, no one has succeeded. The government did sponsor an experimental effort several years ago, but eventually most of the vines were ripped out. If you see Costa Rican wine for sale, it is almost surely from imported Chilean grape juice that is then processed in Costa Rica--the quality is terrible and it is--at least so far--not worth buying except as a total novelty."

12/21 - Rabbi Irwin Kula, Alex Goldfayn, Dr. Harold Katz, Duggin McConnell,

Rabbi Irwin Kula - "Holiday Message"

Known as both a provocative religious leader and a respected spiritual iconoclast, Irwin Kula has inspired thousands nationwide using Jewish wisdom in ways that speak to modern life. A renowned thinker, teacher, and rabbi, he is the author of Yearnings: Embracing the Sacred Messiness of Life (Hyperion, Sept. 2006) winner of a "Books for a Better Life" award, and selected by Spirituality & Health magazine as one the "10 Best Spiritual Books of 2006" and was featured in a national public TV pledge special, "The Hidden Wisdom of Our Yearnings." A leader of religious pluralism, Kula says that the "freedom and openness of America invites us to bring our traditions to the marketplace of ideas



Alex Goldfayn - "The Technology Tailor"

Alex Goldfayn, “The Technology Tailor” is available to let your listeners know about the hottest trends in the coolest gadgets for Holiday 2010! Known to many viewers as The Technology Tailor, Alex Goldfayn has a wonderfully entertaining and easy to understand approach to the technology sector. Alex not only understands how the hottest gadgets and apps work, but he can explain them to the least techie of your viewers, offering them ways to make just the right choices for their family, friends, and themselves. Alex L. Goldfayn helps consumer electronics makers, retailers and agencies develop evangelists. Through consulting, analysis, and industry-leading media tours, he is hired to develop and distribute consumer technology branding and messaging. He is a former syndicated technology columnist for the Chicago Tribune.



Dr. Harold Katz - "The Worst Holiday Foods"

Tis the season to eat like someone who was just rescued from a desert island. Office parties, holiday buffets, family gatherings and enough sandwiches made from leftover turkey to choke a reindeer. But the holidays also mean lots of socializing, so how can you keep your breath smelling fresh even though your social calendar and your eating habits have become joined at the hip. Dr. Harold Katz, “Dentist to the Stars,” says one of the keys is to avoid eating certain holiday dishes that can cause breath bad enough to strip the varnish off a foot locker. Dr. Harold Katz, founder of The California Breath Clinics, is the recognized expert in the fields of bad breath, tonsil stones, and dry mouth. Known as the 'Bad Breath Guru' from his numerous television appearances on shows like The View and the CBS Early Show, he has helped millions of people around the world eliminate their bad breath problems. Dr. Katz is a graduate of UCLA and the UCLA School of Dentistry and holder of a separate degree in Bacteriology, also from UCLA. In the 1970s he established a thriving dental practice in Beverly Hills, California, minutes from bustling 20th Century Fox Studios. There, he perfected his techniques while working with some of Hollywood's biggest rising stars

Duggan McDonnell - "America's Best Mixologist"

Duggan McDonnell has been a fixture on the west coast beverage scene for the past ten years and is finally getting the recognition he deserves. In addition to being named a Rising Star Bar Chef by StarChefs.com this year, he was honored by Food & Wine Magazine as one of America ’s Best Mixologists, and also served as a Cocktail Designer for the Sundance Film Festival. McDonnell has an undeniable ease with guests and colleagues alike, an inventive spirit, and a knowledgeable, highly trained palate. Duggan has shaken up a number of San Francisco spots, including the Repastoria Satyricon, the bars at the Clift Hotel, and Mecca. Prior to his work in San Francisco, he tended bar at Wild Ginger in Seattle, the area’s foremost Pan–Asian restaurant. Among his currently preferred mixology techniques is the use of essential oils that result in very focused, intense flavors. The practice originated from a fascination with healing and aromatherapy, and he creatively applied the technique to the bar. McDonnell’s depth of knowledge and love for beverage extends beyond the mixed cocktail. He has toured wineries, distilleries, and breweries throughout the United States, Europe, Mexico, and Australia, and has also received Level One Certification in the Court of Master Sommeliers. Prior to focusing on a career in mixology, he served as a wine advisor for WinePro Services in Napa and Seattle, where he was responsible for selecting approachable, consumer-friendly wines for wholesale food centers, markets, and special events. A graduate of Seattle Pacific University and a candidate for an MFA in writing from the University of San Francisco, McDonnell is an avid writer. For the past two years, he has been a contributor to SOMA magazine, writing features on cocktails, wine, nightlife and travel, in additional to developing signature cocktails for readers. Despite being inextricably connected to San Francisco’s nightlife scene, Duggan insists that he is truly a home-body who enjoys time spent with family and friends and life’s simple pleasures: a book in the afternoon sunshine, dogs swimming and running at the beach, and a pitcher of margaritas with loved ones

12/20 - Heloise, Stephanie Oswald, Rabbi Irwin Kula,

Heloise - "Handy Household Hints from Helosie"

Born  - April 15, 1951, Waco, Texas -  Syndicated Newspaper Column  Hints From Heloise runs seven days a week in more than 500 newspapers in the United States and internationally. Contributing Editor of Good Housekeeping magazine and monthly columnist: Good Advice: Heloise to the Rescue



Stephanie Oswald - Travel expert

Travel expert and magazine editor Stephanie Oswald is one of the world’s foremost experts on helping people – specifically women – get the most from their travel experience. Whether they’re just loading up the car to visit grandma or taking an exotic trip to a sexy location, Oswald and the Travel Girl magazine she co-founded is helping people make their trips both fun and interesting. 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. Her CNN reporting took her everywhere from The Great Wall of China to The Grand Canyon. She's a savvy traveler-- whether it's a business or pleasure trip, international or domestic. In 2003, she also launched a groundbreaking series called The Weather Channel Road Crew that showcased the "fun" side of weather.

Rabbi Irwin Kula - Holiday Season

Known as both a provocative religious leader and a respected spiritual iconoclast, Irwin Kula has inspired thousands nationwide using Jewish wisdom in ways that speak to modern life. A renowned thinker, teacher, and rabbi, he is the author of Yearnings: Embracing the Sacred Messiness of Life (Hyperion, Sept. 2006) winner of a "Books for a Better Life" award, and selected by Spirituality & Health magazine as one the "10 Best Spiritual Books of 2006" and was featured in a national public TV pledge special, "The Hidden Wisdom of Our Yearnings." A leader of religious pluralism, Kula says that the "freedom and openness of America invites us to bring our traditions to the marketplace of ideas. The challenge is to translate these wisdoms into accessible American idioms that inspire and improve our personal and public lives."

12//17 - Chris Hansen, Kate Somerville, Gary Canter,

Chris Hansen - Dateline NBC

Four years after an American business man is murdered in Thailand, investigators are faced with more questions than answers in a case involving an alleged hit man and an ex-fiancée. Though the search for justice continues, friends, family and the FBI believe someone could be getting away with the perfect crime. Chris Hansen is a correspondent for NBC News' "Dateline NBC." He joined NBC in May 1993, as a correspondent for "Now with Tom Brokaw and Katie Couric." In September 2004, Hansen began his breakthrough investigative reporting on online sexual predators. Eleven dramatic hidden camera investigations have exposed over 250 men who target young teenagers over the Internet. In April 2007, he reported in "To Catch an ID Thief," an unprecedented investigation into the massive billion-dollar epidemic of identity theft. Using "Dateline's" signature hidden camera techniques, the report followed the trails of an international identity theft ring, capturing for the first time on network television how the crime works and some of the people that may be behind the process. Hansen graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor's degree from the College of Communication Arts and Sciences. He resides in Connecticut with his wife, Mary Joan, and their two sons.

Kate Somerville - "Complextion Con"

For over 18 years, Kate Somerville has dedicated her career to skin wellness, working as a pioneer in the field of paramedical esthetics (where medicine meets skincare). Backed by her unique Skin Health Pyramid philosophy, Somerville is one of the most trusted names in skincare today and is personally responsible for the glowing complexions of some of the most photographed faces in the world. (As a matter of fact, her skincare collection was created in direct response to the challenges seen on a daily basis at her famous Los Angeles clinic.) Committed to innovation and results-oriented products that work, Kate Somerville makes radiant skin a reality for everyone by following one simple strategy.

Gary Canter - Canter's Deli - Fairfax

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.

12/16 - Patrick , Terry Walters, Mike "THE MIZ" Mizanin,

Patrick - WINNER - NBC's "The Biggest Loser"

Twenty-eight-year-old Patrick didn't realize he had any health issues before The Biggest Loser, but soon discovered he had sleep apnea, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and was pre-diabetic. It wasn't until Patrick was in college that he really started putting on weight. While pursuing his degree in business management at Delta State University, he was an offensive lineman for the school's football team and consumed large quantities of food to maintain that position. An injury forced him to stop playing, but he continued to maintain the same diet. Now 400 pounds, married, and the father of two young boys, Patrick's weight affects every aspect of his life - from choosing restaurants with seating that can accommodate his large size, to being unable to go on rides with his sons at the state fair. Determined to have a better, healthier life with his wife and family, Patrick looks forward to riding roller coasters at amusements parks, playing with and coaching his sons, and not using seatbelt extenders on the plane.  In an exciting, two-hour live finale on Tuesday, December 14 (9-11 p.m. ET), the winner of NBC 's hit series "The Biggest Loser" will finally be revealed, along with the incredible transformations of all season ten contestants. And in the first part of the show, the third finalist - as determined by America's vote - will also be revealed. All of the contestants from season ten will return for the finale to weigh in one last time and show America how much weight they've lost since the beginning of their weight-loss journeys. The transformations will be profound, not just for the finalists, but also for the eliminated contestants who all continued to lose weight after returning home from "The Biggest Loser" ranch. Those returning will also include the contestants who lost the seven-city challenge in the premiere episode and never made it to the ranch, but continued their weight loss journeys at home. In the most recent episode that aired on December 7, Alfredo "Frado" Dinten (Staten Island, New York) and Patrick House (Vicksburg, Mississippi) weighed in above the yellow line, securing their spots as two of this season's three finalists. Contestants Elizabeth Ruiz (Lawrence, Massachusetts) and Ada Wong (Gilroy, California) fell below the yellow line, leaving America to choose between them to determine the third place finalist competing alongside Frado and Patrick for the $250,000 grand prize.

Terry Walters - "Clean Start"

Terry is about eating clean and living well. She believes in nourishing yourself with nutrient-rich foods in a rainbow of colors and a full spectrum of tastes. Terry is about taking time to shop for, prepare, share and enjoy your meals and mealtime. She is about eating foods from living plants, not processing plants. She is about listening to your body and serving your unique being. She is about being empowered with knowledge. And most importantly, Terry is about making healthy choices that nourish our bodies, our families, our communities and our environment. One choice at a time, with intention and compassion for our selves and our planet, we can eat clean and live well.

WWE's Mike "THE MIZ" Mizanin - "WWE Tribute To The Troops" NBC

World Wrestling Entertainment®, in conjunction with NBC, will honor the United States Armed Forces with its third annual telecast of its holiday special, "WWE Tribute to the Troops." This year, top WWE Superstars and Divas will travel to Fort Hood, Texas to entertain the nearly 350,000 military personnel, family members, and civilians that make up the largest active duty armored post in the United States Armed Services. Thousands of men and women from Fort Hood have served in Iraq and Afghanistan. The hour-long special will air Saturday, December 18 (8-9 p.m. ET / 7-8 p.m. CT) on NBC. Be good. Be bad. Be MIZ.That's the saying... Why you ask? I created a character called The Miz because of a feeling I get. Everyone has a Miz in them. People fear bringing their MIZ out because of what everyone's reaction may be. They care too much about what people think instead of being themselves. That fear, that feeling of being scared is what gives MIZ it's amo! Whether it's the fear of approaching someone you desire in a bar for the first time, bungee jumping, sky diving, or just plain old fear of anything, it's allowing yourself to be scared! But when you are being Miz, you step up to that fear and turn that knot in your stomach into energy which then turns to adrenaline which builds up and builds up until you explode. And that my friends is when you are being "MIZ." The Miz is bringing out that raw, primal side. The side that has no judgements that is just you. It doesn't care what people think or how they'll react. The Miz steps up to that fear and shoves it right up someone's ass. Some people say "Be yourself." I say Be good. Be bad. BE MIZ. 

12-15 - Judge Alex Ferrer, Kelli Ellis, Dr. Elmo

Judge Alex Ferrer -  "Judge Alex"

JUDGE ALEX is a nationally syndicated, court show premiering September 12, 2005. A former police officer, trial attorney and criminal court judge, it’s no surprise that Judge Alex Ferrer has seen it all! With his eye sharply focused on uncovering the truth, JUDGE ALEX will preside over this emotional, daily, half-hour, court room drama with rulings that convey law and order.  From consumer complaints, landlord disputes and co-worker conflicts, to confrontations between family and friends, JUDGE ALEX will provide his litigants with fair, firm and fast justice. With more than 20 years of experience, Judge Alex Ferrer is respected by his peers, extremely knowledgeable of the law, and well-equipped to handle highly charged cases in a fair and insightful manner. JUDGE ALEX will take control of his court room by delivering a straight forward, decisive and tough brand of justice. And, in accordance with the likes of Judge Judy and Judge Lynn Toler, JUDGE ALEX will take advantage of the humor found in his cases.  From patrolling the streets, to controlling the courtroom, JUDGE ALEX is bringing his real-life brand of law and order to television.

Kelli Ellis - Host, TLC's Clean Sweep

As the only child of a superior court judge, Kelli Ellis learned at a young age the importance of diplomacy and balance — in life as well as in a room! She earned her bachelor's degree in communications and marketing and following in her father's footsteps, she applied for law school. After long nights in the law library Kelli decided to leave the courtroom behind and pursue her true love of design, enrolling in the Interior Design Institute in Newport Beach. From the beaches of California to the mountains of Montana, Kelli's clients have kept her very busy on a repeat and referral basis for the past five years. While expanding Kelli Ellis Interiors Inc., she has been occupied with her greatest accomplishments, her two beautiful daughters, who reside with her in Orange County, Calif

Dr. Elmo - "Grandma Got Runover by Reindeer"

Elmo Shropshire - a.k.a DR. ELMO - is best-known for his recording of "Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer," the Christmas classic which has sold more than 10 million copies since it was first broadcast by a San Francisco radio station in 1979. Consistently the most requested holiday song of the past two decades, "Grandma" has secured its place in American pop culture and made Dr. Elmo the king of comedy carols. Each December, radio stations throughout the country call Dr. Elmo for his Christmas commentary and live on-air renditions of "that Grandma song." With the quirky sing-a-long as centerpiece, a radio visit from Dr. Elmo has become part of the nation's holiday tradition.  As a whole new generation sings along, Dr. Elmo continues to spread good cheer in his chats with disc jockeys and their listeners all across America. Along the way, he has released two CDs of seasonal satire, appeared on many television programs and been the subject of numerous magazine and newspaper articles. That this Lexington, Kentucky, native would ride a reindeer to success is a slightly different scenario than the namesake of famed jockey and horse trainer Elmo Shropshire might have envisioned. After working alongside his father in the Bluegrass State and at racetracks in Florida, the future Dr. Elmo earned his degree in veterinary medicine and tended to the thoroughbreds of New York's Aqueduct and Belmont Park racetracks. A move to the San Francisco Bay Area, where he established his own animal hospital, was his proverbial changing of the horses in the middle of the stream. He became a competitive runner. His bluegrass band performed in venues throughout Northern California. And, in 1979, he came upon a little song written by his friend Randy Brooks that everyone but Elmo agreed was one of the weirdest Christmas songs they had ever heard.

12/14 - Kim Danger, Dr. Jeff Engler, Dr. Russell Rosenberg,

Coleman Natural Foods - Meatballs

New Natural Meatballs Make For Convenient Home Cooking
Coleman Natural Foods Offers 100% Natural, Convenient and Delicious Meal Solution Golden, CO - Coleman Natural Foods, America’s leading processor, marketer and distributor of fresh and prepared natural and organic poultry products today take the humble meatball into healthy heat and serve territory with its line of 100% natural meatballs made with antibiotic-free chicken, gourmet cheeses and herbs. Available in four chef-inspired flavors: Italian Style with Parmesan; Sun-Dried Tomato, Basil & Provolone; Pesto Parmesan; and Spinach, Fontina Cheese & Roasted Garlic, each are as easy to prepare as they are delicious. Pre-cooked so all you have to do is heat and serve. With 67% of consumers spending more time cooking at home vs. last year, these meatballs meet a growing consumer demand for meal options that are healthy and convenient but  also deliver on great taste. Coleman Natural’s Gourmet Chicken Meatballs are full of flavor yet free of fillers, preservatives, gluten, nitrates, nitrites, MSG or artificial ingredients. They weigh in at a low 130 calories per serving (approx. 4 meatballs) and offer an excellent source of protein.

Kim Danger - www.mommysavers.comhttp://www.mommysavers.com/

Kim Danger grew up going to garage sales, clipping coupons and living the frugal life. In 1999, she took that knowledge and turned it into a career when Mommysavers.com was launched. She enjoys showing parents new and unique ways to live well for less. Kim lives in Minnesota with her husband and two kids. Kimberly Danger grew up going to garage sales, clipping coupons, and living the frugal life. In 1999, she took that knowledge and turned it into a career when Mommysavers.com was launched. She enjoys showing parents new and unique ways to live well for less. Kim lives in Minnesota with her husband and two kids. If you’re invited to a last-minute get-together or have any other unexpected occasions where a gift is in order, it’s nice to have boxes of chocolate on hand. Pictured here are the Pot of Gold Collection Premium Collection chocolates from Hershey’s which are widely available anywhere you typically shop. They work well by themselves, but you can also add a personalized touch to your gift by adding them to a gift basket with an inexpensive mug or a little bag of coffee (check the Dollar Spot at Target for those). If you’re feeling creative, check out the fun craft ideas they have on the Hershey’s web site for truly unforgettable gifts. http://www.celebratewithhersheys.com/

Dr. Jeff Egler  - California Hospital Medical Center (CHMC)

With cold and flu season around the corner, more and more individuals are looking for ways to fight off illness and stay healthy. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), an estimated 10 to 20 percent of people in the United States get the flu each season. More than 200,000 people are hospitalized by flu complications, and about 36,000 people actually die from the flu. Dr. Jeff Egler, of the California Hospital Medical Center (CHMC) has some helpful tips for individuals to stay healthy during the winter months.  “People should keep in mind that if they just stick to the basics, they will have a much better chance of avoiding illness,” said Dr. Egler. “Everyday habits such as washing hands frequently, getting lots of rest and drinking plenty of fluids will go a long way to help stay healthy.” This year's annual flu shot will offer protection against two new viruses as well as the H1N1 virus that caused the pandemic last season. Only one vaccine is needed this year.

Dr. Russell Rosenberg - Vice Chairman - National Sleep Foundation

The National Sleep Foundation is a 501(c)3 charitable, educational, and scientific not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving sleep health and safety through education, public awareness, and advocacy.Established in 1990, NSF relies on voluntary contributions including grants from foundations, corporations, government agencies and other organizations to support our programs.
1.Americans are aware that their sleep is an important component of their health and safety, and that they make obtaining sufficient sleep a priority.
2.Americans recognize the signs and symptoms of sleep disorders and seek effective treatment for them.
3.Public and private institutions operate in a manner consistent with providing optimal sleep for human health and performance.
4. The incidence of drowsy driving is reduced so that it is rare and an exception.
5. New sleep-related discoveries are made that optimize public health and detection and treatment of sleep disorders.

12/13 - Don Rubinstein

Dr Soda - Don Rubinstein

I founded Dr Soda in 1984 with $350. My first job in the soft drink business was way back in 10th grade selling ICE COLD COKE at the Memphis Blue's Baseball Games at the Fairgrounds in Memphis.  I later followed my golf dreams to become a caddy on the PGA Tour, where I had many inredible adventures, & met everyone I ever dreamed about meeting.  While on tour, I also wound up working with ABC Sports along side the greats in the industry. Chris Shenkel, Dave Marr, Byron Nelson, Chuck Howard, Jim Jennett, Bob Goodrich and even the immortal Henry Longhurst.  After finding my way to California, I stayed in the golf business until I started Dr Soda in 1984. Everything that did come around, came around...so the saying is true. Life is very good to me only because those i have found myself surrounded by have been better to me than I feel I have been to them. Our Dr Soda family consists of 21 fun hard working team members.  Yes, I am married to Kim (after just 1 date) for 25 years. We are always proud of our 2 girls, Elizabeth & Christina.  I have learned several things in building Dr Soda. One is that size definately does not matter. It is about quality, at least in my mind. We Are Now A Company Of Over $4,000,000 In sales. The Growth Of Our Company Has Been Slow And Steady So As Not To Loose Focus Of What We Do & Who We Do It For. If it comes to the point of not being fun, I will stop doing this and shut the doors, but for now, I am having a blast!

12/10 - John Cornelio, Rick Maynard, Chris Elliott

LT Col RET  John Cornelio - Norad Santa Tracking - Peterson AFB CO

For more than 50 years, NORAD and its predecessor, the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD) have tracked Santa’s flight. The tradition began in 1955 after a Colorado Springs-based Sears Roebuck & Co. advertisement for children to call Santa misprinted the telephone number. Instead of reaching Santa, the phone number put kids through to the CONAD Commander-in-Chief’s operations "hotline." The Director of Operations at the time, Colonel Harry Shoup, had his staff check the radar for indications of Santa making his way south from the North Pole. Children who called were given updates on his location, and a tradition was born.  In 1958, the governments of Canada and the United States created a bi-national air defense command for North America called the North American Aerospace Defense Command, also known as NORAD, which then took on the tradition of tracking Santa. Since that time, NORAD men, women, family and friends have selflessly volunteered their time to personally respond to phone calls and emails from children all around the world. In addition, we now track Santa using the internet. Millions of people who want to know Santa’s whereabouts now visit the NORAD Tracks Santa website.  Finally, media from all over the world rely on NORAD as a trusted source to provide updates on Santa’s journey.
Based on historical data and more than 50 years of NORAD tracking information, we believe that Santa Claus is alive and well in the hearts of children throughout the world.
Santa Claus is known by many names, including Saint Nick. Historians claim that the history of Santa starts with the tradition of Saint Nicholas, a 4th century Christian priest who lived in the Middle East in an area of present-day Turkey who became famous for his kindness. He was known for giving gifts to the less fortunate, sprinkling gifts of gold down people’s chimneys or hiding surprises in their stockings. It may be that the Santa we know today emerged from the legacy of Saint Nicholas. Clearly, Santa’s basic approach to gift giving is strikingly similar. Could they be the same person? Only Santa Claus knows for sure. Long before the Wright brothers flew the first airplane or the Montgolfier brothers launched the first hot air balloon, Santa had to find a way to travel from house to house at great speed. We know from our Santa Cam images that Santa’s choice for quick transportation was a herd of flying reindeer. Detailed information on these reindeer remains elusive; we do know, however, that Santa enlisted the reindeer to help him with his worldwide mission of gift-giving. A veil of sweet mystery hides the rest.


Christopher Elliott - Travel Troubleshooter

Are you thinking about your vacation plans for next year yet? You should, now, because travelers may be facing higher prices soon. Recent reports and surveys suggest that rates for hotels, airfares and car rentals may go up in 2011. Meanwhile, alert travelers are nailing down surprising last minute deals on this year’s holiday season.  Travel expert, journalist and consumer advocate Christopher Elliott, knows the world of finance… as in your finances… and travel. In his travel troubleshooter column, he helps protect and rescue travelers from being ripped off! His insights on ticket prices and travel hassles are regularly featured in his nationally-syndicated column.

Rick Maynard - Communications Director KFC

LOUISVILLE, KY - Good things really do come in small packages. To promote KFC’s Festive Feast, a 12-piece meal designed to save time during the busy holiday season, the chain is asking fans to explain why their hometown deserves a holiday season visit from KFC’s “So Good” Secret Santa/Colonel, who will hide miniature prize-filled KFC buckets throughout the selected city.  On December 21, the shortest and darkest day of the year, the crowdsourced winning city will wake to find mini versions of KFC’s iconic buckets hidden by the “So Good” Secret Santa – a Colonel Sanders lookalike who has added some Santa apparel to his trademark white suit. Each bucket will hold cash gift cards of varying amounts and gift checks for KFC food, such as KFC Festive Feasts, ultimately rewarding city residents who find them with more than $20,000 in monetary prizes and holiday meals. Earlier this month, the Colonel visited Santa Claus, Ind. for a day of Secret Santa training, donning a red hat and doling out prizes in preparation for December 21. “In the spirit of Colonel Sanders’ generous legacy, KFC will be making the holidays a little more festive for one city that needs it,” said John Cywinski, Chief Marketing and Food Innovation Officer for KFC. “Those who remember the Colonel know that bringing joy to people coast-to-coast was one of his favorite things to do – and it’s something that we aim to do not only for the holidays, but year-round.”  KFC fans can nominate their city by emailing KFCSoGoodHoliday@gmail.com and explaining why their city is in need of a “So Good” holiday. To join the conversation about which city is most in need of a “So Good” holiday and be one of the first to find out which city has earned one, fans can visit KFC’s Facebook (www.facebook.com/KFC ) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/kfc_colonel)  pages. The brand will announce the winning city via its social media channels on the morning of December 21. For full rules, visit http://www.kfc.com/.

12/9-John Fuller, Kristi Yamaguchi

John Fuller-President CEO Johnny Rockets

John Fuller, President and CEO of Johnny Rockets, one of the nation's largest chains of retro-themed restaurants, goes undercover to work in a restaurant for the first time in his career.  During his undercover stint, he fails his first taste test when tasked with preparing one of the company's signature hamburgers, and also panics when he thinks his cover has been blown, on UNDERCOVER BOSS, Sunday, Dec. 12 (9:00-10:00 PM, ET/PT) on the CBS Television Network.


John had never worked in a restaurant before this experience as he's fairly new to the company and came from a financial background.
Job # 1:
Line Cook - New York, NY (Upper East Side)

The boss works with a line cook and learns how to cook hamburgers and work the fry station.  John has trouble remembering all of the burger combinations.  He is quickly put to the test when tasked to prepare a specialized burger and fries in 10 minutes.  John fails to cook the burger properly (too pink) and has to remake the order.  We learn that the line cook has studied music his entire life and has aspirations of becoming a performer one day.  We also learn that the line cook has submitted menu ideas for his store to headquarters but has never received any type of response, which annoys the boss.


Job # 2:     
Server -- Mohegan Sun Casino, Uncansville, Connecticut


This is the busiest restaurant in their system and one of the rare franchises that serves breakfast.  The boss works with a server.  He has great energy...very customer friendly.   The boss helps the server throughout the morning rush, serving coffee and taking orders.  A common theme throughout all Johnny Rockets restaurants features dancing servers.  She admits to the boss that she didn't love the suggested dances from corporate and decided to make up her own.  John is terrified of dancing, but gives it a shot.  We learn that the server is the mother of four kids.  On the day that John is working with her we discover that she lost her father 11 years ago to the day while John's daughter was born 11 years ago to the day.  The boss becomes pretty emotional when he calls home to wish his daughter a happy birthday.  


Job # 3:
Bartender -- New York, NY (Upper East Side)


This is a specialized Johnny Rockets with a sports bar theme.  The boss works with a bartender and she shows him the ropes.  John panics that his cover may have been blown when he runs into the owner's in-laws who he met several months ago.  John decides to come clean to the in-laws and tells him that he is, indeed, John Fuller, but asks that they not blow his cover. Business is very slow on the night he's there, but the boss remains confident in the sports bar idea.  At one point business he and the bartender go outside to pass out flyers in hopes of drumming up some business.


Job # 4
Food Runner -- Atlantic City, NJ 

The Atlantic City restaurant is still relatively new to the area but is already one of the strongest performing restaurants in their system.  The boss works with a food runner and serves food to customers, but he doesn't have to take orders, which is the primary difference between a server and a food runner.  We learn that one of the food runner's daughters was killed years ago.  When he discovered who was responsible for his daughter's death, he went after the man and beat him up pretty severely and, as a result, served three years in prison for assault.  Once he was released from prison he lived underneath the Atlantic City boardwalk for three months before landing the job at Johnny Rockets.  This really impacts the boss.


Kristi Yamaguchi-Olympic Gold Medalist

In support of National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW), December 5-11, 2010, The American Lung Association and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are scheduling media opportunities to help raise awareness about the importance of influenza vaccination after the holiday season into January and beyond.


Olympic Gold Medalist, former “Dancing with the Stars” winner, special correspondent for NBC’s today show coverage of the 2010 Winter Games and mother of 2 young daughters Kristi Yamaguchi knows the best way to help protect against influenza and its complications is to get vaccinated. Kristi has joined the American Lung Association’s Faces of Influenza campaign to help reinforce with Americans that it’s not too late to get vaccinated if they haven’t already done so. In fact, in most seasons influenza activity doesn’t peak until winter or early spring.
NIVW is a national observance that was established by the CDC to highlight the importance of continuing influenza vaccination, as well as encouraging greater use of influenza vaccine after the holiday season when vaccination rates tend to wane. This year, the CDC designated Thursday, December 9 to older adults (65+) to emphasize the importance of vaccination for the elderly, a high risk population disproportionately affected by the disease.


Typically, older adults are hardest hit by influenza. Nearly 90 percent of deaths caused by influenza and its complications occur among people 65 years of age and older. The recent H1N1 influenza pandemic demonstrated the virus has potential to have a serious and devastating impact on public health and served as a reminder of the importance of annual immunization. Each year in the US, influenza and its related complications result in an estimated 226,000 hospitalizations and thousands of deaths.
Faces of Influenza is an educational campaign from the American Lung Association, made possible through a collaboration with Sanofi Pasteur. This important initiative is designed to put a “face” on influenza and to show Americans firsthand the seriousness of this potentially deadly infectious disease.
Kristi Yamaguchi will discuss her role as a spokesperson for the Faces of Influenza campaign and the importance of annual vaccination. She will also be joined by Dr. Dan Jernigan (Deputy Director, CDC Influenza Division) who can provide an expert medical perspective on the disease, and the CDC’s new universal influenza vaccination recommendations.