Heather DeLuca - 95.1 WAYV

The Best David Wins!

2008-05-22T09:39:00.001-07:00

In previous blogs I've been unable to hide my contempt for this season of American Idol. I've been disenchanted, uninspired, unimpressed--save David Cook. But last night Idol was redeemed and restored in my eyes. Despite a competiton full of lackluster performances rising to the top over true talent, the best man to fill the Idol shoes will do just that. David Cook is now the American Idol. A bartender turned superstar thanks to a few million fan votes. However, after Tuesday night's final showdown against 17 yr old David Archiletta, chances looked slim that Cook could champion. The judges MELTED over Arch who played it safe and sang straight. After some harsh words from Simon inparticular, the defeat on Dave's face was evident. Continuing to take risks until the very last note (choosing to cover Collective Soul's "The World I Know" over an opportunity to recreate one of his prior performances) would maybe not pay off after all. So imagine my shock to hear Ryan Seacrest crown Cook Idol. The right David, the right choice. And not a close race after all. Not an Archilettic runaway as expected. The voting public got it right by more than 12 million votes. I was even so overdramatically worried that FOX might just hand it all over to Arch for fear his father would shackle him to the basement for all eternity to save the family reputation. The show overall was the most entertaining Idol finale in years. Maybe ever. We got new-tune performances from former Idol's Carrie Underwood and Jordin Sparks and a slew of well-put-together medlies from industry vets like George Michael, Bryan Adams, Donna Summer and ZZ Top. There was even a bit of comedy with Jack Black, Ben Stiller and Robert Downey Jr. superimposed into a vignette with Gladys Knight--THEY were her poorly rehearsed Pipps, LOL. As for the WAYV American Idol Challenge--I have finally scored my first ever overall win. I correctly predicted about 10% of weekly eliminations over Paul Kelly and Diane, who both tied for 2nd. My point total equalled just 22 thanks to a win by Dave Cook. It was a competitive season early on for the 3 of us and I look forward to defending my first title berth next season. I just hope FOX shakes up Idol with both hands! We need less product placement and group follies, and FRESHER mentors. Not to mention a lil less airtime. Sixty minutes MAXIMUM is more than enough. Catch ya in January 09! Till then you'll just have to find something else to occupy your Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

TTYL, HEATHER "Idol Champ 08" DeLuca :-P

P.S. I WAS going to arrive to the studio today tiara-in-tow with 2nd place ribbons for my competitors but I didn't want to be TOO ostentatious. Maybe I'll be a bit more brazen if I'm able to successfully defend my title through next season.

Between the 2--Who?

2008-05-15T12:37:00.000-07:00

American Idol season 7 show down is set. It's the Battle of the Davids--teen crooner Archiletta vs. moody rocker Cook. I'd like to say its a lock for either to take the title, but truth is it could come to meer votes considering each contestants fan base. Dave A. will win the teen vote along with the grandmas of America and probably a huge theater sector. David C. will score the votes of those seeking a TRUE American Idol. Someone who's future tunes would instantly fit into the Top 40 radio market. In my opinion David Archiletta just doesn't hit on all levels. And his svengali papa has been a headache for producers just on the show, can you imagine the hold he'd try to have over album creation? It would be like recording studio martial law. Overall, this AI season was the most diverse talent-wise than in the past few years. So in that respect I feel the 2 Dave's are evenly matched. What I can only hope for is that the original tune usually reserved for the final crowning isn't some sappy "my dreams are coming true" mellowdramatic ballad. Isn't knowing someone's dream is coming true a foregone conclusion? The whole theme of the show to begin with? In any case it looks like I'll finally take my first WAYV American Idol Challenge crown after several attempts. I'm not too many points ahead--just enough to ensure victory next week no matter who becomes the next Idol.

TTYL, HD

Pitiful Paula

2008-04-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

Look, we all make mistakes. I'm not gonna throw stones at glass houses. I've had a tendency in my radio career over the years to flub and get a bit dimwitted. I just have that flouncy, sometimes dense, personality. Much like Paula Abdul. However, I'm aware of it. I don't know how much of this blog today I'll even remember to dedicate to last night's ACTUAL American Idol telecast. I simply may be too disgusted to get that far. So here's the rundown in case you were otherwise occupied. The final 5 were mentored and performed 2 songs each by Neil Diamond. Producers messed with the traditional format of sing-than-critique, instead opting to have evaluation take place after each second song. Running out of time early on, Ryan Seacrest brought the group back out to the stage after the first round to get sped up opinions from the judges. It definitely felt a lil rushed but not so hurried to turn Paula Abdul into a space cadet. When evaluating Jason, Paula told him how she felt about "Forever Blue Jeans", his first tune, and than proceded to go on to critique his second song--the one he had YET to sing. Round 2 had not even taken place yet. This oversight left the contestants and Seacrest puzzled but sent the audience into hysterics prompting Paula to shout "What?! Come on you guys this is hard.", stating that she had to write too fast this time. Which means she actually may have jotted down on paper her opinion about the second performances and it wasn't just a slip of the tongue. "THIS IS HARD"??!!! Are you KIDDING ME??? Abdul's sole job in life these days is to listen to someone sing, and than give her opinion. She is not required to even say anything particulary poignant or relevant. Just give an OPINION, thumbs up or thumbs down, and get paid MILLIONS of dollars. I wanted to throw my shoe at the TV. Can they please find some other washed-up has-been to be this dumb? Really how much worse can it get finding someone else to NOT pay attention. I'm sure its all over YouTube by now for your viewing pleasure. Ok now I can get on with the show. I don't know many Neil Diamond tunes, just the super popular stuff, but it didn't take me long to realize that even among the lesser known material, David Cook can shine singing ANYTHING. I hated Archiletta's "Sweet Caroline". It couldn't have been further from "the bomb". Too karaoke to take seriously. Jason was awesome in my opinion. Neither here nor there about Syesha, she's just kinda THERE. But Brooke needs to go tonight. Serious injustice if she gets to stay another week.

TTYL, HD

Shocker for Smithson

2008-04-24T09:27:00.001-07:00

Woops America. What did ya do? Ya sent home the wrong girl last night? Carly Smithson gave the best attempt at reaching Yvonne Elliman-"Jesus Christ Superstar"-status since the 70's. She BELTED Tuesday night during Andrew Lloyd Webber week on American Idol, yet my pick for this season's runner-up got booted. Brooke White is presently praising the Underworld for selling her soul in return for another week on the Idol stage. An undeserved return. I guess my heartstrings are a little rusty since I can't seem to evoke any sympathy for Brooke forgetting her "Evita" words and needing to start over. How am I supposed to know that she didn't stage her fumble? She's been crying croc tears for weeks, and I'm finding her less and less genuine. Well, whatever her motive or slip-up, clearly it worked. Syesha looked a lil stunned to be standing with Carly in the bottom two, she was right to feel shafted after she too performed well. She probably felt doomed next to Carly. For whatever reason the American public has latched on to Brooke and Jason Castro and is not letting go. In any case we're down to 5 heading into Neil Diamond week, and I'm not too sad for Carly considering early cast-offs like Jennifer Hudson and Chris Daughtry have faired better without an "American Idol Winner" stigma. Having, along with Diane, placed Carly at 2 in the WAYV American Idol Challenge (Paul has her at 3) I lose a lil steam this week, but I'm still ahead--for now.

TTYL, HEATHER

From the Kodak to Broadway

2008-04-23T07:51:00.000-07:00

So Andrew Lloyd Webber theme night on last night's American Idol? Ug,sorry theatre buffs but, I was holding back from vomitting in my own mouth at the thought of having to sit thru a night of some of the cheesiest show tunes in HISTORY. And to make matters worse sit back and wait for the lesser Idol contestant to than butcher said songs. However, in a surprise turn of events, I actually was slightly entertained. Definitely more so than during last week's Mariah Carey mentoring. Clearly even the most average American is aware of Andrew Lloyd, or at the very least has an awareness of Broadway plays he's penned over the years including Cats and his most famous work for Phantom of the Opera. Though I wasn't super familiar with some of the tunes tackled by the remaining 6 contestants last night, I felt everyone but Brooke was able to find their niche. Syesha gave a very strong vocal in a very tight Herve Leger bandage dress that may have left viewers wondering how she was able to muster up enough breath to belt out those notes. Jason was just eh taking on "Memories" from the Cats production, which by the way I'm going on record as saying may be one of the WORST songs in the history of music (add that one to your 40 Worst List Mike and Diane). The judges were split on Jay's effort but I felt it was neither here nor there other than the fact that reactions like that this far into the competition leaves even the most talented contestants vulnerable to elimination. And then there was Brooke. Oh this poor girl last night, jeeze. She began her first attempt at "You Must Love Me" from the Evita soundtrack a lil shaky. Note--I said 'attempt'. She forgot the words or her nerves got the best of her or something and on live TV asked to restart. Humbling as it may be to try again, it was an uncomfortable moment. When she did finally get going with the tune she looked like she was in PAIN. As if she was just about to have or desparately needed an appendectomy. The grimacing facial expressions and fake tears are enough already. In my opinion Brooke has a giant bull's eye on her back after last night's horrrendous performance. David Archiletta is made for Broadway, we didn't need Andrew Lloyd Webber night to prove that. But again, for me, he's too traditional. Carly and David both knocked their stage-time out of the Kodak theater. Carly with a killer "Jesus Christ Superstar" rendition and David finally showing off the softness and tone of his voice in a very straight-on "Music of The Night". He is still the one to beat and I'm sticking to that. Bottom 3 tonight I'm predicting will be Jason, Syesha and Brooke--with Brooke going home. Should that happen I would lose about 4 places in the WAYV Am Idol Challenge against Paul and Diane, which shouldn't hurt my lead too much. But its now down to the nitty gritty and every point counts.

TTYL, Heather

Kissin' Kristy Lee Goodbye

2008-04-17T09:19:00.000-07:00

Halla-freakin'-lu-a! How long did THIS take? Several weeks TOO long in my opinion. But last night the voting American Idol public got something right in sending away Kristy Lee Cook. I can tolerate mediocirty in many other areas of my life, but I guess I raise a high bar for Idol. A bar Kristy Lee was unfortunately, for me and for her, never able to rise above. She had just barely skated thru the last few Idol weeks on very bottom-barrel performances. Mariah Carey theme night sealed her fate. A poor undertaking of MC's "Forever" came off bland. I had high hopes for Kristy throughout the audition process but as the telecasts have rolled on I've seen nothing special from her. While other contestants are growing and thriving Kristy has wilted into a shrinking violet getting lost among the originality of David Cook and even Carly. I've been waiting for the curtain to fall on Kristy for far too long, lol, but wishes DO come true. We're down to the final 6 and I'm still ahead of Paul and Diane in the WAYV Idol Challenge, but only by a few notches. We all had Kristy long gone before last night, so we all lost a few points, and something tells me with the way things are shaping up lately for both Brooke and Carly, some surprises could be in the near Idol future.

TTYL, HD

MARIAH+IDOL=BORING

2008-04-16T09:23:00.000-07:00

Ok, so even during, thru, and after the debacle that was "Glitter" I've never hid my favor of Mariah Carey. I could easily be considered one of the world's foremost EXPERTS on Mimi. So one would imagine I would be over the moon of her appearance as mentor on last night's American Idol. However, my jubilation ended with the first contestant song note of the night. I don't really need to rack up all Mariah's accolades here for you to revisit, we already know the 160 million albums, 18 #1's and yadda yadda. Her catalogue of music, nearly all of which she penned herself, is almost unparralled. Therefore my only kudos of the AI performances last night go to Syesha for branching out and taking on a B-track from Mariah's very first disc, a raw song from 1990 called "Vanishing", and to David Cook for pairing down "Always Be My Baby" into a smooth rock ballad. Yes Mariah began her career in music dubbed "the ballad queen" but did tunes like "Make It Happen", "Someday" and "Dreamlover" completely elude the group? I realize that some of the contestants were relatively small at the time of those songs' popularity but come on! David Archilletta chose a tune that was a duet between Mariah and Whitney Houston and used on the "Prince of Egypt" movie soundtrack. The song only peaked at #12 because it was typical and not special. Simon loved it but I thought lil' Davey BUTCHERED it. Carly could be in trouble after once again straining thru her performance--"Without You", a Harry Nilson song covered by MC in 93. I guess the Mariah fan that I am just doesn't consider even HER covers as part of her "catalogue" per say. "Hero" was WAY to big for Brooke who probably would have faired better with something more organic and upbeat. Kristy made my ears bleed with "Forever"--she just didn't have the range to cover it. I do have to give it up to Jason though for remembering "I Don't Wanna Cry", but all in all I wanted more variety. Mariah however looks fantastic and has proven never to count out real superstar talent even in their darkest hour. Tonight before elimination Mariah performs her new single, the fabulous "Bye Bye" which is sure to become a heart-tugger all over radios near you. I believe Carly, Kristy and Brooke are in trouble again this week. Should Carly be sent packing I would lose an INSANE amount of WAYV Am Idol Challenge points, giving a chance for Paul to catch up to or take over my lead.

TTL, HEATHER

P.S. BUY E=MC2! Its in stores now, and my initial review may have underestimated this disc considering I'm addicted to it now and have it on constant loop in my car. LOVIN' IT!

Johns Got Jilted

2008-04-11T07:11:00.000-07:00

I didn't touch on Idol Gives Back yesterday so let me just say good job America, nearly $67 mill raised for the less fortunate. Highlight of the night was a killer version of "Barracuda" with Heart joined by an obviosuly NOT preggers Fergie. BUT--I have MUCH bigger fish to fry. I could curse here but I'm keeping it PG. Michael Johns gone from Idol? He got, unfairly, booted last night! While this turn of events greatly suits me in jumping yards ahead of Paul and Diane in the WAYV Idol Challenge, I'm about to lose my mind over this. I did predict in a previous blog that Carly and Syesha would bottom out. And while I understand why Mike found himself in that position, I don't feel his, albeit lackluster, rendering of "Dream On" by Aerosmith was bad enough to warrant walking papers this early in the competition. On the AYV Idol board I had Mike going home next week, and I was worried I had grossly underestimated him in doing that. Poor Paul placed him runner-up behind David Archiletta so he drops by 6 points this week, Diane drops by 4. There is some banter here around the station today that Johns' departure may have been Idol bringing the "shock and aw" factor as they've been known to do. I'm not convinced the votes took him down. I mean just his female fan base ALONE should have given him more momentum. But we thought that about Daughtry too. Maybe he'll wind up as successful since now he's got way more free time to himself, lol. Here are the official WAYV American Idol Challenge standings:

Heather--7 points

Paul--13 points

Diane--14 points

TTYL, HD

Inspirational Idol

2008-04-09T07:37:00.000-07:00

Last night's Idol was full of L-O-V-E. Or at least the remaining contestants TRYING to lift us up. It was a night of surprises from the underdogs, and disappointments from the front runners. Leading into tonight's "Idol Gives Back" the theme was inspirational. Michael Johns started off on the right note with Aerosmith's "Dream On", but lost the judges confidence when he strecthed to hit the songs ending high range and fell sharp. Kristy Lee, who is now like the Idol cockroach that can't be killed off, finally got Simon's seal of approval, thought I didn't feel moved in the least by her Martina McBride cover of "Anyway". It just felt contrived. (Am I sounding like Simon yet?). I was pleasantly surprised by Jason Castro with his paired down version of the classic "Somewhere Over The Rainbow". It was a very innovative approach that wowed everyone, and rightly so. The judges, especially Randy, didn't warm up to Syesha taking on the Fantasia tune "I Believe". I must have been tone deaf last night or something becaise I felt she OWNED it and knocked it out of the park. No one really agreed, lol. Carly sounded angry according to Simon, but in my opinion she wasn't angry, she was just struggling to pull off singing Queen, and it was more strained than hateful. Brooke? Who cares? Well I should because I can't have she or Carly booted this soon considering I have them ranked pretty high in the WAYV Idol Challenge. My man Dave Cook let me down last night, I hated the tune he chose, he looked and sounded exhausted. And here's where the tone deaf thing comes back into play--I didn't think David Archiletta's "Angles" was even close to being on the mark, but the judges felt it was brilliant. Overall, I feel we're looking at an all-female bottom 3 tomorrow night. Carly, Syesha and Brooke being my prediction. We get an extra Idol night this week with elimination taking place tomorrow night rather than tonight. This evening more than just your votes are needed. Donations will be needed to benefit many charities across the globe with "Idol Gives Back". We give our dough to the needy and Idol gives us a killer line-up of stars from Mariah to Reese Witherspoon. Even Ryan Seacrest has put his money where his mouth is handing over his whole week's salary to the cause.

TTYL, Heather

Formula For Success?

2008-04-09T06:47:00.000-07:00

I've been lucky enough to score a sneak preview of Mariah Carey's "E=MC2" a full week ahead of its public drop. To say the bar was set high by 2005's "The Emancipation of Mimi" is a gross understatement. The disc officially placed MC back at the top of the music industry food chain giving her 3 more #1's and selling nearly 10 million copies worldwide. While the tunes on "E=" would have been a nice added set for "Emancipation" I'm not sure how well they stand on their own as an ALBUM. Yes, "Touch My Body" is a catchy diddy and clearly one we've loved thus far considering it became Mariah's 18th recordbreaking #1 single. However, "E=" could take some warming up to. Its very formulaic in responce to "Emancipation". There are two or three ballads that are very obviously modeled after "We Belong Together". I mean stick with what works right? Many of the new tracks are rap-cameo heavy such is the case with "Migrate" featuring T-Pain to the point of overshadowing MC. Mariah does strect to new territory going a tad reggae on "Cruise Control". And FINALLY after being divorced nearly 10 years already, she gives up the real pain behind her split from head honcho Tommy Mottola. "Side Effects" gives a very raw account of her pain. "Lovin' You Long Time" shows off Mariah's best vocal in years, though "That Chick" would have been better suited for the Glitter soundtrack with its heavy 70's-80's disco vibe. I'm a lil disappointed in what's to be the next single. A song called "Bye Bye". It will probably soar to the chart tops with its "sad you died, miss you forever, 'One Sweet Day'" theme. All in all, "E=MC2" is a fun record, but not as mature or deep as I was hoping for as a Mimi follow-up. It hits stores one week from today.

TTYL, HD

Ramiele Hits The Road

2008-04-03T12:21:00.000-07:00

Just have to get this outta the way--YAYYYYYYY!!!

I'm in 1st place in the WAYV AmIDOL Challenge for the FIRST TIME EVER!!! (sorry PK and Di)

Though tears work on me like a charm, I found it hard to be TOO upset that Ramiele Malubay was bumped off Idol last night. I was too busy celebrating that my pic for the pint-sized belter to be sent packing this week panned out. Therefore I neither lose or gain points, but that was not the case for Paul and Diane. I believe I'm only ahead of PK by one notch, but for now thats enough for me. However, Paul did rib the fact that I hadn't marked our scores on the studio scoreboard for the past 2 weeks (my responsibility as creator :-) )--I tend to lose the silver Sharpie needed for this task--but today walked right in and took to marking my week's victory first thing--mere COINCIDENCE, lol.

Ok the show itself last night? BOOOO-ring. I'm not sure I care about Bo Bice anymore and I was overly concerned with wondering if Dolly Parton was going to knock her own lights out if she fell in her 5 inch heels to pay any real attention to her guest appearance. The suprise for me was Brooke White downgraded to this week's BOTTOM 3. While Ramiele's departure served me well I'm still miffed that Kristy Lee Cook has avoided the boot yet again. She's almost mocking the fact that she keeps escaping this fate. Also, I must say I HATE when they make the voted-off contestant sing the show to an end. Most of them are gutwrenched or crying, and while it may be their last chance to get much individual Idol face-time, its just uncomfortable to watch and must feel like torture to them.

TTYL, HD

Dollywood in Hollywood

2008-04-01T20:15:00.000-07:00

I'd like to start this blog with a complaint about Ryan Seacrest which I rarely have. His opening monologue/April Fool's Joke on tonight's American Idol was uber LAMEEEEE...like the audience was ever going to buy that the show was being pre-empted because of some dumb vocal coach issue. Go back to the drawing board Ry.

Ok, now on to the telecast itself. Dolly Parton mentoring night for the remaining 9 contestants. I acutally quite enjoyed hearing songs from Dolly's catalogue I wasn't familiar with. Hats off to Brooke White for taking on my fave Parton tune "Jolene". I was pleasantly surprised since I wasn't expecting anyone to tackle it. I was prepared for more predictable renditions of "9 to 5" and "Islands in The Stream", but neither of those were performed. I wasn't super disappointed really by anyone, though once again I'm unimpressed and unmoved my Kristy Lee Cook, and she should have brought more life to the stage this particular week given her country music love/background. Ramiele was also just ordinary and it was a rare bounce-back for David Archiletta whom I thought would struggle with this week's theme. My fave performance of the night came from Carly Smithson and "Here You Come Again"--displayed a sensitivity from her voice I hadn't yet heard, though it was an incredibly strong vocal at the same time. Dave Cook was consistent and I thought Simon was a tad too hard on Syesha's "I Will Always Love You"--even though its a Dolly penned song, no one can get passed the Whitney version.

WAYV AI CHALLENGE breakdown--Paul is still in the lead and it would benefit me immensly if Ramiele went home this week. Diane is lagging but not by much considering she's the only one of the 3 of us to keep Kristy in the competition this long. Elimination and a Dolly performance tomorrow night and I'm gunning to at least tie things up.

TTYL, Heather

Curtain Falls on Chickezie

2008-03-27T09:19:00.001-07:00

Probably a few weeks overdue, Chickezie is the latest American Idol casualty. Dumped by the show Wednesday night for performing--I don't even KNOW what song--a song that Simon claimed was absolutely the wrong choice, sealing his fate. Syesha in the bottom 2 was a suprise however. I felt she sang with conviction Tuesday night and delivered her best performance thus far. Kristy Lee Cook SAFE for performing "God Bless The USA"? I find nothing unique about this girl, but if America's keeping her around for being fortunate looking, than I suggest she begin making the most of her assetts--she could benefit IMMENSLY from a shorter skirt and some killer stilettos. She's become the new Sanjaya, hanging by a thread. I believe since Paul, Diane, and myself had Chickezie leaving this week, that means PKell is still only in the lead by one point in the WAYV American Idol Challenge.

TTYL, HD

ARRIVADERCI AMANDA

2008-03-20T09:45:00.000-07:00

Last night's American Idol bottom 3 was the first REAL shocker, for me at least, of the season so far. Elimination came down to Carly Smithson, Amanda Overmeyer and (for the second straight week) Kristy Lee Cook. Surely Idol didn't seriously intend to send CARLY packing? I really believe its how Fox keeps the momentum going--throw a fave into the bottom 3 and keep the audience on the edge of their seat. Once Carly was deemed safe, I was positive that despite Amanda's poor performance if "Back in the USSR" Tuesday night, Kristy Lee wouldn't escape the ax again. Except thats exactly what happened. Guess America loves a hot girl huh? Lol. The sad thing is that Amanda won't get to tour with the other contestants this summer since only the Top 10 get that honor. Well, Miss Kristy best bring her A-game next week. She was a front-runner for me in auditions but has become a huge disappointment letting nerves get the best of her among a live audience. In the WAYV American Idol Challenge all 3 of us (Paul, Diane and myself) had Amanda going out next week so we all lose 2 points this week, leaving Paul still in the lead by 1.

TTYL, HD

P.S. In regards to an earlier entry, Fox announced Mariah Carey's judging this season prematurely, she is scheduled April 16th. And what was with Kelly Pickler, does anyone really care anymore? Even Simon looked unamused.

Idol left me IDLE...

2008-03-19T06:54:00.000-07:00

A bit disenchanted regarding last night's American Idol performances. Was a SECOND Beatles-themed week really necessary. I was just BLAH. Kristy Lee Cook neeeeedddssss to go home already. My guy Dave Cook wound up a lil on the arrogant side this week, probably since he got such rave reviews last week. Brooke's "Here Comes the Sun" wasn't as bad as the judges thought, however I didn't care for her reasoning and explaining to the judges. Just stand there and take your meds babe. I'm really over Amanda Overmeyer as well. Try something more subtle. And while I feel David Archiletta could be the next Michael Buble, I find nothing redeeming about him at all. And here's where the teenage gals out there want to trow tomatoes at me, lol. The talent in the competition is waining for me quickly. However, it could also be that my DVR started to zonk out on me half way thru and didn't make watching last night's show the easiest. But what my eyes couldn't see my ears could hear and I wasn't totally impressed.

Beatles Equal Boring?

2008-03-18T07:41:00.001-07:00

It's American Idol night! The 3-way throwdown between Paul, Diane and myself continues! BUT--its Beatles night, again. I realize the size of their catalogue and the excitement over the fact that its taken this long to get the go-ahead to use it. While I wasn't disappointed with last weeks performances, I don't know if I can sit thru another two hours worth tonight. I look forward to a new theme each week. I think it's what weeds out the truly talented contestants from the wannabees to present them with new challenges. So I guess I'll say that I expect David Cook and Carly to shine bright again tonight. For those who didn't shine LAST week, this could be a second chance.

DIVA DIVA DIVA!!!---MARIAH ON IDOL?

2008-03-17T12:34:00.001-07:00

I've gotta confirm this, but I'm getting reports that after 6 seasons of begging, Mariah Carey is set to coach the American Idol contestants this week. No word if she is also judging, or if its an all-Mariah theme. I'll keep ya posted.

TTYL, HD

IDOL CHALLENGE #3--THE LIST

2008-03-17T08:12:00.001-07:00

Here's the list for this season's WAYV American Idol Challenge: (in descending order; the first listed name reflecting the contestant we feel leaves in week #12 and so on, the last name being who we've chosen the overall winner)

Diane:
Ramiele
Chickezie
Kristy Lee
Amanda O.
David H.
Syesha
Dave Cook
Brooke
Mike Johns
Jason
Carly
IDOL!--David A.

Paul:
Kristy Lee
Chickezie
Amanda
David H.
Jason
Ramiele
Brooke
Syesha
David Cook
Carly
Mike Johns
IDOL!--David A.

Heather:
Kristy Lee
Chickezie
Amanda
Ramiele
David H.
Mike Johns
Syesha
Jason
Brooke
David A.
Carly
IDOL!--Dave Cook

As you can see the race could be a really close one, even with David Hernandez going home WAY sooner than any of us expected. Check back with me tomorrow for a sneek peak of tomorrow night's show!

TTYL, HD

IDOL ELIMINATION WEEK 12

2008-03-13T08:35:00.001-07:00

Here's your up-to-date WAYV American Idol Challenge info:

So, Paul and I BOTH expected a Kristy Lee Cook-sendoff to be a SLAM DUNK. In the first shocker of the season so far male stripper turned contestant David Hernandez got the boot for his hideous rendition of The Beatles "I Saw Her Standing There". With that elimination Paul Kelly takes the lead by one point since Diane Mitchell and myself didn't have Dave H heading out for weeks.

Paul was nice enough to leave me a smack-talking comment today claiming I was "going down" in the year's challenge...to that I say WE SHALL SEE PAUL, we shall see. It's a longgggg season and its just begun. Keep it here for more updates!

TTYL, HD

WAYV IDOL CHALLENGE #3!

2008-03-12T12:16:00.000-07:00

Its official! The 3rd Annual WAYV American Idol Challenge is underway! And you can keep up right here at my blog, or thru Paul Kelly and Diane Mitchell's. The 12 finalists took the stage at Hollywood's Kodak Theater for the first time last night. The final 12 is where the Idol Challenge showdown usually begins for Paul Kelly and myself. However, this year we've added an X factor in the form of Diane. We've sequenced our picks for the season beginning with who we believe gets knocked out each week, i.e., I've chosen Kristy Lee Cook to go out in week 12 (tonight), and so on. The person with the LEAST amount of points by the Idol crowning wins (I'm sure Paul has a more specific detailing of the point system on his blog, he's good like that). Paul Kelly is reigning and defending champ two years running. But I've also got some stiff competition in Miss Diane.

Last night's theme saw John Lennon and Paul McCartney Beatles songs released for performance for the first time in the show's history. I have to say I was more impressed than I expected. It wasn't quite as disappointing or ear-bleeding as I was anticipating. Stunners of the night were Carly Smithson's "Come Together" and my pick for Idol David Cook's rendition of "Eleanor Rigby". Low notes came (happily for me) from Kristy Lee Cook and favorite Dave Archiletta who's performance was ripped by Simon. I couldn't help but blush a lil bit at that ribbing since Paul and Diane both have David winning the whole season. So far I'm feeling pretty confident, although with Chickezie going at at week 11 across the board, all three of us are scratching our heads--did we count him out too soon? You'll have to tune in, and check in here to find out! It'll be down to 11 after elimiation tonight--8p.m. on FOX.

TTYL, Heather

P.S. I know Ryan Seacrest has been trying to shed some lbs. but he seemed like he had one too many energy drinks last night, AND I can't stand to hear Paula talk anymore, I just CAN'T STAND IT.

ON STAGE WITH BON J!

2008-03-04T12:26:00.001-08:00

On stage with Bon Jovi at the Wachovia Center, if you were in my position and not lucky enough to be there in person. Thanks to WAYV listeners Tara Grunlock and Teresa Durst for providing these hot shots!

OHHH MY EYES!!!!

2008-01-29T12:42:00.001-08:00

Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie.

So darn hot they're like the surface of the sun.

You can only stare so long before you have to turn your eyes away.

Say Hello to the New Breed Hotties!

2008-01-28T12:51:00.001-08:00

Everyone has their hypothetical list of "5". Ya know, the five celebrity guys or gals whom if were to pop up in our "real lives" we would be able to ditch spouses for an inexcuseably run off with. Well my list is rapidly changing. There's a new breed my friend, a NEW BREED. Yes, my Hall of Fame hottie list (and these lists, of course, are fiercly personal) include the likes of Tom Hanks, Bryan Adams and Diddy--yes that's right Sean Combs. But in the the past six months my attention has turned to some up-and-comers. Oddly, some of these newbies have been around the block a time or two, but are just recently becoming more high-profile. Let's begin with my NEW "5" shall we? (in no particular order):

James Marsden--sure he was a blind superhero in the "XMen" trilogy. A shame to cover up those gorgeous blue eyes with hideous 80's-like sunglasses, but with a megawatt smile and chisled cheekbones who needs em? He's completely endearing opposite Kate Heigel in this month's "27 Dresses" and he's finally getting the leading-man attention he deserves.

Jerry O'Connell--a.k.a. Mr. Rebecca Romaijn--Abs. Need I say more? Jerry was a pudgy cutie pie back in the days of "Stand By Me". But somehow when his baby face and weight hit the curb what remained was a rockin' hard Pitt-like package. Boring TV's shows like "Crossing Jordan" and "Sliders" have come and gone, and Jerry is now playing up to his comedic talents in ABC's buried half-hour sitcom "Carpoolers". He's brilliant on this unique show as the stereotypical non-committal hot guy and weekly visions of his cut physique have bumped him up into my "5".

Chris Pine--Who? Exactly. Lesser-known if UNKNOWN altogether. But get used to this rugged looker. He's the modern day Captain Kirk in J.J. Abrams highly anticipated winter "Star Trek" prequel. He looks like, and may be, a former soap actor. But his sharper features give him an edge. I predict he'll fill out that hideous gold-black Enterprise uniform and wind up on everyone's "it" list by years end.

Javier Bardem--The literary, theatrical owner of the greatest killing machine to hit the big screen since Terminator. Javier has been picking up a slew of awards recently for his haunting, eery portrayal of a serial killer in "No Country For Old Men". He's menacing on film yet humbling to hear speak. The spaniard boy-toy of Penelope Cruz comes as almost a shock to me considering his most recent role. His real-life persona is a complete antithesis of his Coen Bros.-created murderer. Not very good with the english language offscreen, this guy makes me believe the addage that European languages are those of love.

Jeffrey Dean Morgan--Boy, that Kate Heigel gets to kiss all the best ones. Lol. Jeff is most likely better known as the gorgeous but ill-fated Denny Dukett from "Grey's Anatomy" 's 2nd season. Ya know, the sickbed bound heart patient of Dr. Izzy? He died too quick for my taste. Dimples. Those dark chocolate eyes. That 5 o'clock shadow that looks like it could scrape your skin off. It's love. He was maybe the only GOOD part of the Hillary Swank bomb "P.S. I Love You". In that flick he even spoke like a true Irishman and flashed a bit of his bare bum. With more TV appearances lined up and a few more forays into film in the near future, JDM could be the next George Clooney. The man's got acting chops too, lol.

TTYL, Heather

Pass on P.S.

2008-01-11T08:28:00.001-08:00

This rant probably going to seem a tad scatterbrained today because I'm not going to be able to get all my thoughts out fast enough since I've been waiting and storing info in my head for 3 days now.

I've seen maybe the most disappointed piece of cinema in YEARS.

P.S. I Love You has all the star power of a blockbuster. Instead, its a giant flub. Hillary Swank, Harry Connick Jr., Lisa Kudrow? Even Grey's Anatomy's hot Denny Duckett character (Jeffrey Deam Morgan) couldn't get this wreck back on the rails. Adapted from a book--and that should have been my first clue and lesson learned from the Davinci Code that movies are NEVER as good as the books--P.S. is the classic story of having a loved one you take for granted who is unexpectedly taken by death and you spend your life full of regret and sadness. Should be a homerun chick flick. Nowhere NEAR.

I've not seen such wretched acting by Academy Awards winners. Hillary Swank should stick to roles where her character gets killed off. There is nothing endearing about her in this role, nor sincere. She has NO comedic timing, and its easy to see that if she's not playing completely against type, she just isn't plausable. Maybe thats why Aaron Spelling canned her after just 8 episodes of Beverly Hills 90210. I just didn't buy it. Harry Connick Jr. seemed literally idiotic, and laughable. Even Lisa Kudrow couldn't leave her Friends "Phoebe" persona behind.

There are many pivotal scenes involving crying and dying. Scenes that required raw acting and emotion. However, P.S.'s editors (and presumably director) never let those scenes simply speak for themselves. There was not ONE SINGLE SECOND of this movie removed from score or soundtrack--so much so that it became wildly distracting. Not to mention the movie's saccharine scrpit took up more than 2 hours of screen time. A whole half-hour/45 minutes more than it needed. Towards the end loose ends were tied up though TOO quickly.

The characters just never melded for me. They all LOOKED like they were ACTING. Even Kathy Bates who turned in the best performance in the movie as Hill's mama couldn't penetrate. There was a clear detatchment the actors had from EACH OTHER. I don't know, I could probably go on a lot longer but I'm sure you get the picture. However, if you wanna see Jeffrey Dean Morgan's bare booty just wait till the DVD release and fast forward to about an hour 30 in and hit pause. Well worth it, but not for the price of admission. Just buy the book or wait for the disc.

A better bet for the weekend? The HILARIOUS The Bucket List with Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson--thats REAL acting. Or stretch out for some horror for the spanish-language flick The Orphanage. That looks spooky.

TTYL, HD

Ax American Gladiators!

2008-01-07T12:33:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year all! Been a little blog-lazy lately. Since I can't even begin to know where to start commenting on the health and welfare (or lack thereof) of Britney Spears, I've turned my attention to a more recent trainwreck--the revival of American Gladiators. Did I mention the UNNECESSARY revival? Sure, anyone with a TV and a clicker in the 80's locked onto the original syndicated Gladiators once or twice. In my case it was every single Saturday with my brother when we were itty-bitty. Overly stacked formidable bone-crushers taking on the meak and unprofessional in obstacle and hand to hand combat. Clever challenge set ups and silver spandexed AG's gave the show its mystique back on the days of old. But not EVERYTHING old need be made new again. And NBC has just proven that. Hosted by wrestler Hulk Hogan and DWTS alum and pro boxer Leila Ali, the new AG is blatantly scripted. Its almost quite literally exhausting watching them both try and make it thru their on-camera commentary. Back are the rock wall and joust along with the elimination course among other stunts, but the days of these matches captivating, my attention at least, are OVER. I'm sure the new batch of body breakers dedicate every day of their lives to staying fat free and fit--but they look steroid-blazen rather than attractive. Its so the antithesis of hot. Not to mention the smack-talking contestants. I just don't buy it this time around. If your flipping for something to watch and you stumble upon American Gladiators, take my advice, keep flipping.

TTYL, HD

Shedding calories while shopping....

2007-12-19T13:56:00.000-08:00

Up to your ears in ribbons and bows? Still searching endlessly for those last minute holiday gift items? Me too, and that means I've let my workout routine completely slip away this week. So here are some tips on how you can actually BURN calories while you're out and about finishing up your shopping!

1. It's a pain, but carry your bags instead of using a cart, you can burn a couple hundred calories just by lugging your gifts around.

2. Bet ya didn't know hitting the fitting room to try on some holiday party duds can burn off 204 calories, but it does!

3. Got a baby or toddler? Skip the stroller and carry your little one to get rid of 50 calories per hour.

4. Forget waiting for the elevator or findind space on a crowded escalator. Burn nearly 300 calories and give your booty a boost by taking the shopping mall stairs.

5. Get to those coveted items faster! Speed walk to and through your store destinations--it eliminates 400 more calories than just strolling.

6. Hate the lines? Who doesn't? But standing in them (as opposed to finding something to sit or lean on) cuts 61 calories.

So don't sweat a couple Christmas cookies or two just because ya have no gym time in your schedule!

TTYL and happy shopping! Heather

Sierra in the Slammer!

2007-12-12T12:50:00.001-08:00

American Idol season 4 contestant Jessica Sierra has landed herself behind bars for the third time in a year for disorderly intoxication, assault, and resisting arrest. This time she even tried to bribe the police into not hauling her away her booty. I guess losing to Carrie Underwood would do that to you too!

It Ends with Elle :-(

2007-12-07T08:27:00.000-08:00

How do I get Bryan Admas to fall in love with ME now that he's dating supermodel Elle McPherson?

:-(

Knowels Knows Better

2007-11-30T12:49:00.000-08:00

First came Bon Jovi, than Sheryl Crow, than Jessica Simpson. But SAY IT ISN'T SO!!!--Beyonce is venturing into the world of country music for her next disc???

Bon Jovi "crossed-over" into country thanks to a remix version of their song "Who Says You Can't Go Home" which featured an added vocal from Jennifer Nettles from music group Sugarland. While the version paled in comparison to the track featuring just Jon Bon Jovi (due to unmatched pitch by Nettles), the country music world ATE IT UP. The song charted well and opened up Bon Jovi's already huge fan base to a whole new audience. Enter lightbulb-moment for JBJ--record an ENTIRE country album. They did (pairing with Leann Rimes and hit songwriters Dan Huff and Big and Rich)--Lost Highway--and it worked. The album--which left the bands' fans to wonder if the supergroup had "jumped the shark" ala Fonzie--has actually been well received by critics and country music fans alike. Not SUCH a stretch to make the cross coming from rock roots.

Jessica Simpson has struggled to say the least to sell CD's in spite of her huge voice. After moving from the Christian to secular industry in the late 90's, Jess dabbled in country with her "These Boots Are Made for Walking" cover for the Dukes of Hazzard motion pic she starred in. While the song didn't get much radio airplay it became a minor hit. So whats a buxom blonde with Dallas roots and one of the greatest set of pipes in music to do? Put back on the cowboy boots and get into the studio. Jessica will also pair with Huff and Big and Rich (who've helped to pen megahits for Faith Hill, Tim McGraw and Carrie Underwood) for an album set to get underway in January. My guess is that since country is into etheral vocal goddesses (Faith, Carrie, Taylor Swift) Jessica will finally find the CD-selling niche her career has been missing.

Finally I get to my point (sorry). At the American Music Awards 2 weeks ago I almost lost my dinner listening to Sugarland BUTCHER (and thats putting it nicely) Beyonce's #1 smash "Irreplaceable". I couldn't text my friends to type "are you watching this nightmare?" fast enough. The southern twang RUINED the tough attitude needed to pull off the songs lyrics. But things went from bad to WORSE when Beyonce actually joined Sugar's lead singer (yet again Jennifer Nettles, get your own songs lady) on stage to sing the last half of the tune. Poor Nettles couldn't keep up with Beyonce's vocal runs and the result was WRETCHED. "Mismatched" doesn't begin to do the performance justice.

Now comes word from the industry that Beyonce (albeit raised in Texas as well) was really using that AMA duet as a springboard for a foray into country. Am I the only person who thinks this doesn't make sense? Its about commerciality right? Sheryl Crow, yeah (her next effort Detours is country-laced). Beyonce, uh uh. I can't see this working but don't take my word for it. I also said Kelly Clarkson's Breakaway disc would only be good for use as a coaster after "Since U Been Gone". So what do I know? This revelation just really leaves me scratching my head.

TTYL, HD

What a Wine-O

2007-11-27T12:33:00.000-08:00

CONCERT ALEEERRTTTT!!!!

Wine-O Amy Winehouse has cancelled all remaining 2007 tour dates--as well she should. She "can't bear being on the road" while her husband's holed-up in the big house for yet ANOTHER drug possession charge. Maybe its just that she doesn't have anyone to binge with? The girl's voice is the BEST I've heard in YEARS and I wanna hear her saaannggg, but until she gets herself together I don't wanna see her. Go get help girl!

Merry Christmas Charlie Brown!

2007-11-26T13:23:00.001-08:00

Christmas 2007. Another year spent baking, shopping, frustratingly searching and shopping for the perfect gifts. The lines, the traffic, the stress and headaches that inevitably accompany the holiday season. So rare is it that among the endless Christmas card-writing and twinkle light-stringing do I find solace and serentiy. But for ONE half-hour I CAN escape thanks to the seasonal tradition I hold dearest. The splendor of A Charlie Brown Christmas!

Now while I DO take issue with the fact that its airing Tuesday night (November 27th, 8pm, ABC for you Tivo-ers and DVR-ers), way earlier than necessary, what I KNOW is that I'll drop everything else to watch it. All treadmilling, showering, laundry-ing, cooking and what-have-you will need to be accomplished or put on hold for 30 minutes. A Charlie Brown Christmas is for me the most endearing and classic of all the holiday movies, cartoons, and specials. Here are 3 reasons why (for me):

3. Lucy Van Pelt's PELTING of Charlie for a variety of reasons (skimpy Xmas tree, terrible Xmas play directing) is at its best. No one brings down Charlie quite like my girl Lucy.

2. Linus' futile attempt to deliver the "true meaning of Christmas" message. The kids just wanna dance and decorate, but for us viewers it makes ya listen intently.

1. An ALUMINUM CHRISTMAS TREE...bright, pink, shiny...cold, hard, aluminum steel. Now doesn't that sound easier than watering the real thing, lighting the thing up to high heaven, and running up your electric bill?

No need to make mention of The Snoop--he rocks 365 days a year. WATCH AND ENJOY! Show the little ones what they're missing if they've yet to see it! Take what may be the only 30 minutes of free time you'll have this shopping season! If we get lucky they may even air it TWICE since feeling the need to throw it on pre-Dec 1.

TTYL! Heather

HD Blog is Back!

2007-11-20T12:30:00.000-08:00

Ok so the non-techno-geek that I am finally resolved my Blogger.com issues! Don't know what finally clicked but its working...I'll get ya some new and interesting commentary tomorrow, but since Thanksgiving is Thursday I gots to get thee booty to thee gym and make some room in the waistband for sweet potatoes and pie!

TTYL--HD's BACK!

BRING HOME BARKLEY!!!

2007-03-14T16:15:00.000-07:00

This is Barkley. Barkley is the beloved family pet of the Loggi family of Upper Township. Dr. Dan Loggi of Cape Atlantic Oral Maxiofacial Surgery is the FANTASTIC oral surgeon who extracted my pesky wisdom teeth over last summer. He and his staff in both Marmora and Cape May Court House are avid WAYV listeners and since I believe in "paying it forward", (they took such good care of me throughout and after surgery) I am hoping to help Dr. Loggi locate his lost family pet.

You see, Barkley the pug has disappeared. He accidentally got out of the Loggi's Upper Twp. home during a recent flower delivery and has not been seen since. Although Barkley has been spotted twice, once along the Garden State Parkway, leads have turned up nothing. The Loggi's have even received "trick" phone calls about Barkley's whereabouts. The family also made a desparate attempt to broaden the community's awareness about their lost pet by taking their story to the Cape May County Gazette.

Dr. Loggi's wife and three young children are heartbroken over Barkley's vanishing. It's as though they've (as well as their other pug pets) have lost a member of their family. And anyone who has ever had a pet go missing I'm sure can sympathize and empathize with the hole it creates in your life to not know where they've gone, if they're safe, or if they've met some terrible fate.

Poor Barkley is out there all alone, missing his family and trying to find his way home. I emplore you PLEASE if you have seen Barkley, or a dog that you feel COULD be Barkley, to email me at Heather@951wayv.com, or call me at the radio station either on-air between 10a and 3p M-F at 609-484-WAYV (9298) or 9:30a-4p M-F at 609-484-8444.

I'm reaching out to hopefully bring Barkley back to the family who loves him. The Loggi's have been sick with grief and any information you could offer would surely ease their minds. I would greatly appreciate anything WAYV listeners and 951WAYV.com readers can do to help.

TTYL, Heather

GIVE IT UP FOR GARCIA!

2006-12-06T10:49:00.000-08:00

I, like many other Eagles fans, took to a fave watering hole Monday night to catch our football team take on Carolina in prime time. Monday Night Football is ALWAYS exciting when your home team takes the turf, but Eagles fans were less than enthusiastic to see Jeff Garcia with ball in hand. I was appalled to hear Philly fans at the Linc Monday night boo-ing Garcia whether he completed a pass or not. I would think its hard enough to be a veteran QB taking a backseat to Donovan McNabb--it must have been grueling to take that field without an OUNCE of support from the fans. Yes, he is not our TEAM LEADER, yes the Panthers were going to put up a fight, and yes even I was hoping to see AJ Feely on the field in Garcia's place, but I trust Andy Reid. And if Andy has enough confidence in Jeff than we should too. McNabb is becoming the new Steve McNair of football with season after season of injuries plaguing his career. He won't be back this year so Garcia is the leader for the foreseeable future, and he should be embraced by Philly fans. Eagles lovers should keep in mind that even though Jeff may not have been starting line-up, he is a 3-time pro-bowl quarterback. And he DID get us a win in a game against Carolina no one thought we had a prayer of winning. Convinced yet?

Be NICE! TTYL...Heather

UGLY IS AWESOME!

2006-11-30T12:42:00.000-08:00

I'm in LOVE with Ugly Betty! This is the best new show since Grey's Anatomy. It's deliciously witty and funny, and I love the way it shows the fashion industry almost poking fun at itself. The fashionable side of Ugly Betty and its soon-to-be-next Sexiest Man Alive co-star Eric Mabius (Betty's womanizing boss Daniel) aren't the typical reasons for which I will NEVER miss an episode. It's Betty. Who knew ugly could be so cute? America Ferrara plays Betty and I first noticed America in the indie flick Real Women Have Curves--she was an unknown then but with CLEAR acting chops. In the NY world of high fashion someone like America in real life, and Betty in fictional life would NOT stand a chance--she is simply too normal--a little overweight, train-wreck dresser, braces and glasses don't help. Thats why she brings such credibility to
her Ugly role. Somehow instead of being caught up in the glossiness of the magazine (MODE) she works for and ga-ga over supermodels and gorgeous co-stars, I find myself rooting for Betty. She arrives in a self-centered, superficial atmosphere as an editor's assistant and finds a way to bring them down to her level, down to real life. The show has ALL entertainment elements, not just one--its funny, sexy, dramatic and even touching. And who knew Vanessa Williams could be so convincing as a conniving, backstabbing co-worker. Although America's Betty is the star, her co-stars are all individually intriguing in their own right making for a tight and successful ensemble cast. So while you may be hooked on Survivor, Smallville, and The Office, if you're not watching Ugly Betty Thursdays at 8 on ABC you're missing out on the most clever show on the TV schedule, plus its produced by Salma Hayek and she pops up on episodes here and there so its fun for a girl AND a boy--at least Tivo or DVR it and give it a shot!

TTYL, HD

2 NIGHTS, 2 GREAT SHOWS

2006-11-06T12:32:00.000-08:00

Friday night was WAYV presents Duran Duran, and put simply, they delivered. I was lucky enough to have a repeat meet with the band prior to their show at House of Blues, and it should be no surprise that I was most excited about a reunion with Simon LeBon--I LOVE HIM! We had a photo taken together last year that the WAYV air staff has dubbed the "Simon/Heather Prom Picture" (see 951wayv.com to view). Super-cool Simon was gracious enough to sign my picture "To my prom date 2006", and I thought I would faint. Now on to the IMPORTANT part of the night--the show! Amazing! HOB was packed with Duran fans--and anyone who may have been comp-ed throught the Showboat didn't leave disappointed. It was truely a show for the fans being that the band, now minus Andy Taylor, had no new album to promote. The 4 remaining members never LOOKED better, and Simon's voice never SOUNDED better. Through songs like "Union of the Snake" and "Save A Prayer" I was in pure 80's heaven! If ya missed them this time around, trust me, you don't want to make that mistake again!

Now for Saturday's show--Lionel Richie at Boragta. I've been waiting what feels like just shy of 5 years of my whole life to see this man live. Yay, wish granted! Could there BE a cooler guy on the planet? Ok, well maybe Prince, but even The Purple One would have to tip his hat to Lionel. Richie called this show at Borgata his "test run" for the real world tour he embarks on in 2007. Test away Lionel! We got the best of the best! From the opener "Hello" straight through to his biggest hits with The Commodores, Lionel didn't leave the audience with much to complain about, if anything at all. His voice never wained once, and I believe it sounded as good if not better than studio recordings of the songs he performed. Young, old and what-not, the event center sang almost every line of every song in sync. I think even my boyfriend who is as rock as they come enjoyed the night with one of R&B/Pop's best. Lionel showed why his singing and songwriting has had staying power for almost 30 years. He even played my FAVORITES like "You Are" and "Sail On". Couldn't ask for more, and yes I will be back when HE comes back!

2 HD thumbs up for 2 awesome weekend concerts!

TTYL, Heather

3 Reasons to see Christina Aguilera LIVE!

2006-10-24T12:18:00.000-07:00

Christina Aguilera is coming to Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City on March 31st. For me this is the most highly anticipated concert tour of upcoming 2007 for 2 reasons: 1., because the last time Xtina toured with Justin Timblerlake for Justified and Stripped their AC show at the Hall was abruptly cancelled due to a freak lighting collapse incident. Thus my VERY good seats were unusable and the show was never rescheduled, and 2., because Back to Basics (Aguilera's latest disc) is THE BEST body of work to come along in five years.

Three years ago I was hugely attached to the songs on Christina's Stripped CD. I wore it out until it had scratches and could be played no more. In 2002 I believed that release all but broke Christina away from the bubble gum pop movement she was grouped into in the late 90's. I obviously was compelled to see the live stage show to support Stripped because I was chomping at the bit to see the set's songs in a live arena. No such luck. I missed the Philly show the night before since I had tickets the next night to Boardwalk Hall and although Xtina threw in an extra American leg of the Stripped tour, that TOO was cancelled when the songstress suffered vocal problems and was ordered bedridden by her doctor. I was a bit bitter but I moved on. I just didn't think the material could get better than Stripped. I was wrong.

And here I insert my first reason for why YOU need to see Xtina live and in person.

#1--Back to Basics is Christina's most ambitious and creative collection of material yet. Gone is the angst-ridden, chap-wearing, black hair-dying, sexy in-your-face Christina of days past. Her image and music have been rounded and softened, not by her endless brigade of handlers, but by Xtina herself. Somewhere between Stripped and Basics Christina was kidnapped and turned from brash party girl to demure starlet circa 1930. But although she may look more shy than in times past, the music is anything but. The vocals and lyrics on the double-disc Basics are as powerful as anything, and don't sound like anything else out there right now. Its big band, retro, jazz, AND pop all with a twist you've never heard before. Tunes like singles "Ain't No Other Man" and "Hurt" touch the tip of the iceburg of just HOW good Back to Basics is. Pick it up and leave songs like the homage-paying "Back in the Day" and Andrews Sisters-inspired, racy "Candyman" on replay and you'll see what I mean.

#2--I was lucky enough to see Christina live ONCE at the Tweeter Center during her first headline tour in 1999. And what I can tell you is her stage show does not disappoint. Yes this girl can siiiiiing. You know that. But she PERFORMS just as convincingly as Madonna, Janet, or even Britney. And although those artists have singing ability, they do not possess the singing GIFT. So what I am saying is that while engaged in full-on choreography Christina does not need a headset or backing tracks--she hit EVERY note EVERY single time.

And finally, #3--Back to Basics has many instances of a circus theme, so I would imagine Aguilera works some sort of carnival atmosphere into her new tour as she has done in the video for "Hurt". Can you imagine Barnum and Bailey's with REALLY good music?

Tickets for Christina at Boardwalk Hall are not on sale yet, so keep it to WAYV and we will update you when they are! Convinced yet? Hope so.

TTYL, Heather

RACHAEL RAY FINALLY IN AC!

2006-10-19T12:46:00.000-07:00

She's conquered Food Network (with 30 Minute Meals, $40 a Day, and Tasty Travels), bookstores, and syndicated television--and NOW fianlly Rachael Ray has finally found time in her busy schedule to visit America's Favorite Playground. In case you haven't seen the HUGE billboard over the Black Horse Pike, Rachael is entertaining at Caesar's in AC on Novenmber 12th, and she's doing not ONE but TWO question and answer forums!

Please revisit one of my previous blogs to uncover my fascination with Rachael. She's the genius that got me off the couch and into the kitchen, not to mention glued to my TV everyday for hope of catching one of her countless shows. Even though I had broken up with Rach after a recent episode of $40 because I was saddened that she picked out 5 live crabs and sat idley by while they were sent to a boiling, watery grave, I still feel the need to indulge. How can I risk not seeing her say "EVOO extra virgin olive oil" in person?

Yes she has become a BIT overexposed lately with her new Martha Stewart-like talk show, magazine covers, book covers and the like. But I think she's worth spending a Sunday afternoon with. Tickets are on sale now. See ya there!

TTYL, HD

LOTS to say about NICK LACHEY

2006-10-10T12:12:00.000-07:00

Uninspired. That's sort of been my position as of late on blogging. What to rant, complain, or boast about? Sunday night at Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa I found EXACTLY what I needed to pull me out of my blogging rut--NICK LACHEY.

WAYV presents Nick Lachey was another sold out concert event for us. As luck would have it I got the priveledged task of escorting 10 WAYV listeners backstage to stand face to face with the ex-Mr. Jessica Simpson. Not bad work if ya can get it. :-P

Along with the WAYV backstage contest winners were a gaggle of Nick fan club members panting in anticipation of Nick's arrival. When they finally got their wish I felt the need to hold my ears. You would have thought Elvis entered the building, lol. Bloodcurdling screams filled the air. One by one we stood in line to have Nick sign a dashing 8x10 of him looking ever-so-rugged in an old beat-up pick-up truck. Worth the wait? Every minute of it.

The no-airbrushing necessary Nick did not disappoint. Now, I'm not really one to go on looks alone when it comes to celebrities, I'm more into the talent aspect of the industry but holy cow this boy hit the all-American good looks jackpot. I've met some celebs who look NOTHING in person like they do on doctored magazine covers and in extremely flatteringly-lighted music videos. I didn't think it was possible but Nick Lachey is every bit as handsome up close as you've seen on TV. It was almost, ok it WAS definitely distracting. Round about 5'10, just buff enough, and with killer eyes. Mega watt smile? Check. Impressed? DUH! All I could really think was "how could Jessica have given THAT up?". Whatever they're misfortune I was standing there and well, at that given moment she wasn't. He he he.

Now that I've all but drowned you in vocabulary about Nick's rockin' aesthetics, I have to reveal that he is one of the nicest, most down to earth members of the fame game I've come in contact with. We chatted briefly about football and I extended well-wishes that his career continues to fall into place as it has this last year. And there ya have it. After a backstage encounter and on-stage opportunity to have Nick drop to his knees in front of me while belting out a Led Zep tune, Mr. Lachey was more than enough to end my blogging drought!

TTYL, Heather DeLuca

Will DaVinci Disappoint?

2006-05-19T06:57:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough to attend an advanced media screening with Sony Pictures last night of the highly anticipated blockbuster film The DaVinci Code. Being as big a fan of Dan's Brown's novel as I am, the release of the movie version was a moment I had been waiting years for. I had a calendar that I obsessively marked days off of in looking forward to it. I have read the book 4 times (I just finished the last page AGAIN Wednesday night) and have been completely enthralled by the story from page 1.

I felt I was in very capable hands with Ron Howard directing the movie and Tom Hanks bringing symbologist Robert Langdon to life. My excitement was palpable when I found out they would helm the film. Like a kid on Christmas Eve. I would get chills every time the trailer came on TV.

Enough rambling, you just want to know if its worth seeing right? YES.

Fans of the book may feel the movie fell short in many ways. Without giving too much away, there ARE tiny details of the story the are missing or changed. I felt as though the first 20 chapters of the book were moved through on film in about 6 minutes. There are pivotal scenes centered around London's Temple Church and Westminster Abbey that are just a blip on celluloid. I felt that as a new person watching the movie having not read the book, may find themselves lost in the film's trying to explain key story details too quickly, or glossing over them altogether. To see ANY of this book come to life on the big screen was worth the wait but I find I much prefer the book. SO much is lost on the movie.

However, if you are new to DaVinci Code you most likely will find the movie meets your expectations. Its fresh idea of searching for, and the mere existence of a "holy grail" will perk up your ears, and Ron Howard's interpretation will take you on a rollercoaster ride from Paris to London to Scotland and back. The characters are played very well by their actors. But I have to admit I DID find Tom Hanks a little TOO Tom-Hanks-ish at times.

If you're on the fence about whether to read the book or see the film. Read the book but go into the film being prepared to be somewhat disappointed. If you are only seeing the film go in with an open mind and prepare to be entertained!

EVOO! And keep it comin'...

2006-05-17T12:23:00.000-07:00

Helloooooo everyone out there in web-land. Been gone awhile, I know. But I have been entirely TOO distraught to type since the love-of-my-life Chris Daughtry got booted from American Idol. So NO! I will NOT be speaking of AI especially since now there is NO hope of my even coming close to a victory in the AYV American Idol Challenge against Paul Kelly.

Whew! Now on to happier news. I recently took some time off and in my leisure I have discovered one of 3 soul mates in this world. Maybe you've heard of her? Rachael Ray? Ah, but you MUST know her because apparently I am late to that party. If ya don't, Rachael makes 30-minute Meals on the Food Network and the woman is a freakin' GENIUSSSSS!!!!!

One day during my vacation I inadvertently flipped on Food Network instead of HGTV (don't laugh). All of a sudden I see this pint-sized thing whipping her way around the kitchen and chatting at lightening speed, laughing at her own stories and talking to no one it seems other than herself. My first reaction? "Oh gosh what is this poor girl on?". I couldn't decide whether I was annoyed by her or fascinated. Whatever it might have been, I couldn't change the channel. Could it be that I found someone to really honestly and truley inspire me to cook? YEEESSSSSS!!!!

Rachael Ray has gotten me to do what my mother and boyfriends have been trying to do for years--get ME to cook, and do it in an organized way that doesn't require my using EVERY utensil and pot in the kitchen. Rachael's recipes are quick and easy, with simple ingredients. She cooks in real-time "delicious and healthy meal from start to finish in under 30 minutes". And here's a novel idea, they actual come out tasting AS GOOD as they look on TV. No guess work. I'm in love I think.

She has tons of cookbooks and numerous shows as I have found out. And soon she partners with Oprah Winfrey for her own talk show! In talking incessantly about Rachael Ray I have found people either love her or REALLY don't (Mike of Mike and Diane Morning show and my boyfriend being haters--Paul Kelly being a lover). Check her out, you won't be sorry! 6pm Food Network.

TTYL, Heather

Victory for DaVinci!!!!!!!!

2006-04-07T13:34:00.000-07:00

Hoorah for Dan Brown!!!!! Brown is victorious and NOT GUILTY in the London court case citing DaVinci Code plagerism! This means the movie will be released as scheduled on May 19th! I will be there the MINUTE it opens. I am reading the book now for the 4th time to prepare! TTYL, Heather

AI CHALLENGE--It ain't over till it's over...

2006-04-07T06:49:00.000-07:00

I can't even BEGIN to tell you the wave of disappointment that rolled over me Wednesday night when Mandisa was voted off American Idol. Her departure nearly (key word here being NEARLY) dessimated my hope of being the winner of the American Idol Challenge. Mandisa was my #2 pick, meaning I chose her to be Idol's runner-up for this season. In losing her I gained 10 points in the Challenge, putting Paul Kelly at an advantage. The score is now 14-4.

I was over the moon about Katharine McPhee nudging by for one more week. It was a relief that she wasn't even in the bottom three. But I didn't expect Mandisa to be packing her bags. Bottom three results from Tuesday night's country competition came down to Paris, Elliot and Mandisa. Naturally I thought Mandisa had too large of a fan base to be the one to go. But she did. And at that moment I knew Paul Kelly was watching his TV claiming premature victory. But it ain't over till it's over. If Ace Young is the next to leave I can still catch Paul and maybe even out. We'll see how it goes next week when the contestants take on the tunes of QUEEN!

To catch up on the AYV AI Challenge hit the home page of 951WAYV.com--and wish me luck!!!!

TTYL, Heather

Paul Pulls Ahead

2006-03-30T15:16:00.000-08:00

I need to get a life. Last night at 9:28pm I found myself with a pillow in front of my face too anxious to look at the TV in case by some colossal screw-up Katharine Mc Phee got dumped from American Idol. This season is entirely too nervewracking for me to handle.

Tuesday night's Idol had the contestants taking on songs from the 21st century. I had NO idea where some of their choices came from, especially Mandisa and Kelley Pickler. I was looking forward to maybe a bit of Maroon 5 or Avril Lavigne. Instead I got under-par renditions of gospel and unfamiliar country tunes.

16 year-old Lisa Tucker, whom I had orginally chosen from the audition process to get the Idol title, sealed her fate with a poor performance of Kelly Clarkson's "Because of You". It came off, in the often-used words of Simon Cowell, as bad karaoke. Clarkson OWNS that song start to finish, and Lisa fell well short of competing with her. As I expected Lisa and Ace represented two of the bottom three. What I didn't expect was to see one of the front-runners, Katharine Mc Phee, down there with them. Katharine chose to sing Christina Aguilera's 2003 tune "The Voice Within". It had a rocky start and was an uncomfortable, nervous performance. The end most definitely showcased Kat's pipes but for me it was no where near her best effort. However, I didn't feel it meritted bottom three. Mc Phee, luckily, has gotten another chance as the lowest vote's went to Lisa. THANK GOODNESSSS!

With Paul Kelly chosing Lisa to get booted week 7 and I week 5, Paul now leads our American Idol Challenge by three points. If Ace Young goes home next week though I will be in STELLAR shape to pull ahead. It's country time on Idol next week which will unfortunately bode well for Bucky and Kelley, but I want them BOTH gone!

TTYL! HD

America Gets It Right

2006-03-23T07:45:00.000-08:00

"AMERICAN IDOL CHALLENGE" UPDATE!--

America FINALLY got it right last night voting off Kevin Covais from American Idol. The 16 year-old crooner, known to his fellow Idol contestants as "Chicken Little", did not score big with his rendition of "When I Fall In Love" during Idol's "50's Night" Tuesday. Even though Kevin got significantly less harsh comments from Simon Cowell than the week before, America did not agree. And I could not be happier. I still have NO idea how Kevin Covais squeeked his way into the Top 24 let alone Top 12. Guess the grannies and youngins fell for his boyish looks.

I have been gunning to get rid of Kevin for WEEKS, as has my Idol Challenge counterpart Paul Kelly. I even went as far as to say Tuesday night that I would gladly take a point loss to Paul in our contest just to see Covais go. Luckily we both had Kevin positioned to get booted in the same week so we are even keel again. With Bucky hanging around (my pick to go home last week and Paul's for this week) Paul is ahead by 2 points.

Catch up on the 2nd Annual American Idol Challenge at 951WAYV.com. Although I like Bucky Covington, I need him to go so I can pick up some points. I have to be nearly perfect here on out if I'm to beat Paul. I know I have some supporters out there so send me your comments by clicking below. Happy Idol voting!

TTYL, Heather

And so the "Idol" battle begins...

2006-03-16T12:11:00.000-08:00

Although I would really love to tell you about the Billy Joel show from Monday night, since I've been procrastinating about it for 3 days, since Paull Kelly has taken our American Idol Challenge PUBLIC its time for me to comment.

If all this is new to you head to the homepage of 951WAYV.com to catch up. Last year Paul and I had an informal game going trying to pick next American Idol. It amounted to just listing our picks on a piece of paper that hung on the cork board in the AYV studio. This year, however, has become a little more competitive.

It all started when during the audition process of this Idol season I proclaimed 16 year-old Lisa Tucker was the next American Idol. From there Paul and I decided to try and narrow down which of the 24 finalists would make it to the all important top 12 when America gets to vote. So I thought I would make it more fun by using posterboard and idol-pics to make things more interesting. I was up to my eyeballs in glitter and rubber cement and all of a sudden I felt like I was back in 7th grade art class.

As you may have read on Paul's blog, he and I were even keel heading into the final 12 when the performances moved to Hollywood's Kodak theater. We both had 6 a piece. Now the REAL game has begun. There is a new, more-glittered, more complicated board with new rules to go along with it. This time around its a point system that Paul worked up ( I think to confuse me since I am terrible with numbers :P ). It hurts my head to go over it again since it took us a week to finalize it ourselves so if you want to know how it works head to Paul's blog. In all seriousness though I had a blast with Paul yesterday as we officially unveiled our 12 one by one.

So far today Mr. Kelly has bragging rights since his 12th pick Melissa McGhee (meaning his first pick to be knocked out of the 12) has been sent packing. But judging from what happened with Ace winding up in last night's bottom three I may be doing some bragging of my own in the coming weeks. You can comment freely on my list of 12-1 by clicking below. Paul has a lot of supporters so I am trying to muster up my own cheering section! Go Team HD! Which side are you on???

TTYL, Heather

Don't Call Me Debbie

2006-03-12T11:43:00.000-08:00

So since it's technically still the Big 80's Weekend on WAYV, I shouldn't catch TOO much flack for what I am about to reveal.

I spent my Saturday night in a hip little club in lower Manhattan's SoHo district called The Canal Room. Saturday's they do a Big 80's dance party. Last night they had a special performance by the original 80's Pop Princess. That's right, I'm talking about Deborah "don't call me Debbie" Gibson. I am not ashamed to admit that I drove two hours to NYC, got stuck in Holland Tunnel traffic and spent close to $100 for this show. I was the 13 year old loser who plastered her room floor to ceiling (and actually a bit of the ceiling as well) with pics of The Debster from magazines like Bop and 16. I had the black bowler hat, the torn-knee jeans and converse sneaks. I knew every word of every song on Out of The Blue and Electric Youth. The goody-two-shoes image fit me perfectly.

I saw Deb on the Electric Youth Tour in 89 at the Philly Spectrum. My ma was nice enough to take me but made it well known that was THE LAST place she wanted to be. That was the only time I ever saw Debbie Gibson live since there weren't any other chances after her recording career skidded to a halt.

Debbie has continued to record both pop and Broadway albums since her stint as an 80's teen act. And YES, I own them all. I like that she never gave up putting material out there even though she wasn't quite the popular one anymore.

Last nights Canal Room show started rocky for me. Standing room only with RABID fans the likes of which I have never seen for an artist. She got on stage about 40 minutes past schedule and proceeded to belt out Broadway tune after Broadway tune. That's really NOT my thing, but she sounded AMAZING. Broadway has actually made her voice STRONGER and given her more range. Thankfully after a 10 minute break Deb hit the stage in jeans and a gold top and gave the crowd the show they really came to see. "Only In My Dreams" and "Foolish Beat" didn't come across as even remotely childish, even though she was 16 when she recorded the tunes. She even rocked-up a version of "Electric Youth" in grundge fashion to hear how it would have sounded if released in the 90's rather the 80's. All in all I was close enough to almost touch her. It was a very intimate setting for with an impressive audience. She doesn't perform her contemporary music anymore since she moved to the stages of musical theater. So it was cool watch her resurrect "Lost In Your Eyes" etc., and see her cover Carol King and Hall and Oats along the way.

Laugh if you will but I am glad I went!

TTYL, HD

Hell For The Homeless

2006-03-10T23:36:00.000-08:00

Usually I reserve my blogging for whimsy and general ranting. And believe me, I would like nothing more than to throw my two-cents in regarding the American Idol challenge I've got going on with Paul Kelly. Rarely do I ever comment on the news unless its something "entertainment" related, but I feel compelled to write about something of more substance tonight.

There is a growing epidemic in this country--homeless abuse. We have all been guilty of ignoring the homeless, pointing at them or staring because in truth its just hard NOT to sometimes. So many of us wander around uneducated and too busy to bother with questioning how someone BECOMES homeless. Homelessness is seen as a disease in our society. Recently, the homeless have become an unwilling target of something more than neglect. They are dealing with violence in growing numbers. Worse, the trend is being perpetuated by the young.

Several male college students were arrested in Florida last month for attacking two homeless men with baseball bats. Only days ago another man sleeping in a Boston park was attacked by, yet again, college boys who beat him then threw lighter fluid on him and set him on fire. Whether on a dare, or for bragging rights, out of drunkeness or sheer enjoyment, "homeless bashing" is becoming a trend. Even Paris Hilton's newest boyfriend Stavros Niarchas was reported to have paid a homeless man on Sunset Boulevard $100 to pour a soda on his head.

People may not UNDERSTAND or even care why or how someone winds up living on the street. But what can't be ignored is the fact that the homeless already have an awareness and embarrassment of their situation. Whether they got there through their own bad decisions or have simply been dealt a bad hand in life, one thing they would rather not have is an even greater humiliation of being attacked for fun. I'm sure they would RATHER someone pretend they don't exist than be assaulted or killed.

These thoughts began for me tonight on just a routine drive home through Atlantic City leaving DejaVu Nightclub and seeing a homeless man walking barefoot down Atlantic Avenue while co-eds rolling in for Spring Break threw change at the man and laughed. I just couldn't in good conscience go to sleep tonight without expressing my disdain for blatent disregard for human life. With cell phone 411 at your fingertips maybe next time instead of staring you could dial up and find the nearest shelter or soup kitchen and pass on the info to someone who could use it. Hope I made ya think.

TTYL. Heather

DaVinci Dilemma

2006-03-01T12:25:00.001-08:00

Say it isn't so. I am THIS CLOSE to the opening of the most anticipated movie of my life--The DaVinci Code. Yes, I am one of the millions of rabid Dan Brown fans counting the days until the release of the major motion picture version of his novel. In my opinion The DaVinci Code is a revolutionary work of fiction, one of the best of the 21st century if not ALL TIME. The whirlwind story of Robert Langdon, Sophie Nouveau, and the more believable (than Indiana Jones) quest to find the truth behind the Holy Grail is gripping and adventurous and worthy of many nights of lost sleep to continue reading.

May 19th is the scheduled release date. Ron Howard is the very capable director. The film stars Tom Hanks as Langdon, and although I myself had pictured Harrison Ford in the role I think Tom is an adequate fit. It's an all-star line up in fact including Paul Bettany and Alfred Molina. Anyone who knows me knows my obsession with Dan Brown and all his novels. And anyone who knows me knows I have been saying for months (since I found out the rights to the book had been sold for movie production) "Please let me live long enough, not to have children or get married or see the world, but to see The DaVinci Code put into celluloid form. I just cannot wait. It's like a kid looking forward to Christmas for the first time.

Now comes the news that Dan Brown had to appear in a London court yesterday on charges he plagerized much of the facts in The DaVinci Code from another non-fiction work called Holy Blood, Holy Grail. This debacle is now threatening the movie release. The writers of Holy Blood, Holy Grail are seeking an injuction to stop producer Brian Grazer from sending the film public until the end of the trial. If it were safe and if I felt comfortable typing out numerous explatives right now I would. But I am a lady. Instead I will just say my world has CRASHED, CRASSHHEEDDDD!!!!!!!!!!!! Yes I am overdramatic but its how I feel.

If I have to wait until next November to see this movie I will simply die of anticipation. Die. However, it leaves the film in a much better position for Oscar season. Keep me in your thoughts, thanks. Boo Hoo.

TTYL, Heather

DaVinci Dilemma

2006-03-01T12:25:00.000-08:00

Top of the Muffin' to ya!

2006-02-26T14:50:00.000-08:00

So, I spent MY sunday morning in over my head. Somehow I thought it was a good idea that I, me, Miss Messy, the Queen of Disorganization, host what was originally to be a Pre-Valentine's "girls only" brunch (thanks to the snow storm on Feb. 12th I had to put all plan on hold until today). I pulled it off by the skin of my teeth and just softened my dishpan hands with some lotion after cleaning the disaster-area of a kitchen I left behind.

Now that I am relaxing I did what I always do when I'm alone. Don't EVEN go there guys its soooo NOT what you're thinking. :P I turned on the Style Network. Yes, I am addicted and something tells me I am not the only woman you know who is. Well the program of choice today is "Glamour Magazines 50 Fashion Do's and Dont's". Somewhere around the #20 mark I discovered the "Muffin Top". No it isn't Elaine of Seinfeld's great idea of the perfect breakfast treat. Apparently it is now a fashion faux pas. Muffin Top is when you put on a pair of pants with a waistline you've long outgrown and lovehandles, back fat, and beer belly come spilling over. Now I understand the concept of Muffin Top. I've been there, chances are you have also. But what I want to know is WHO comes up with these terms? Who looks at someone and just is genious enough to say" wow, she/he is sporting Muffin Top"?

I guess I am just jealous I didn't think of it first. All I can do is warn you. Watch out for the Muffin Top just as you would watch out for VPL's (visible panty lines) and other wardrobe malfunctions.

TTYL, Heather

Post-Grammy Pow-wow

2006-02-09T20:13:00.000-08:00

Alright, it's past my bedtime Thursday night so I have to make this quick--just wanted to throw out my thoughts on the 2006 Grammy Awards.

Madonna! Need I say more? Her body was spectacular, fantastic, unbelieveable. In fact there may not be enough adjectives to describe her rockin' physique. When she finally hit the stage to co-open the Grammy's with the Gorillaz there was a collective gasp, both in the audience of the L.A. Staples Center and on couches across the country. How does a women in her late 40's come up with thighs like that???!!! Oh yeah, its called a personal trainer on call 24 hours a day along with as much free time as you want and an in-house chef. But seriously do you have any idea the dedication it takes to look like that when your metabolism has seen better days? If there is one ounce of fat on Madonna then I needed a magnifying glass to see it. At 47 she looks more amazing then ever. The 3-hour a day Bikram Yoga sessions have seriously paid off and has done nothing but make me, at 30, feel lazy and unproductive. I definitely have to step up my cardio at the gym.

On to Mariah Carey. I have loved, loved, loved this girl for the past 16 years but she has to STOP. I can't stand to look at her anymore, and her live performances fall way short of the mediocre mark. Mariah and mediocre are two things that should never be in the same sentence. Although about 1/4 of the "We Belong Together"/"Fly Like A Bird" combo performance was authentically live, the rest was tracked and overdramatically lipsunk. Leave THAT to Britney and Hillary.

Kelly Clarkson used the Staples Center acoustics for all they were worth during her shot on stage. And although she forgot to recognize American Idol in either of her acceptance speeches, she was humble and genuinely thrilled by her wins.

Bono seemed just a tad unfocused when going through the "thank you" motions, spouting off about clowns and circuses, and his father Bob (which was actually very touching yet somewhat sounding like he needed to speak to a therapist to get emotions off his chest rather than a Grammy audience filled with his peers). However, I greatly appreciated his attempt to explain the meaning behind the title of their now Grammy-winning HOW TO DISMANTLE AN ATOMIC BOMB CD.

Gwen Stefani makes the cutest and sexiest pregnant woman ever. Kanye West is WAY too in love with himself. Jamie Foxx can have my ears any day. Teri Hatcher needs to stay away from music awards shows. Jennifer Love Hewitt needs to go back to being hot. Fantasia Barrino needs a stylist desperately. Beyonce and Jay-Z need to give up the "secret lovers" scenario. Paul Mc Cartney is still the coolest rock star on the planet. Christina Aguilera (in her first performance since becoming Mrs. Jordan Bratman) proved why her upcoming third CD is one of the most aniticipated collections due this year.

And FINALLY--PLEASE SOMEONE TELL ME WHAT IN THE WORRRRLLLDDDD WAS UP with Sly Stone? What crypt did they pull him out of? Who told him a platinum mohawk was flattering? Where is his neck? Why was he impersonating a Gremlin? Why did he walk off stage in the middle of his own tribute?????

Thats a wrap till next year. I'm too tired to go on and clearly I have was too much Grammy-gripe so I will just give it up for now!

Nighty Night. TTYL. Heather

Haagen Daas for Heather

2006-02-03T06:18:00.000-08:00

Ok since it is now the beginning of February, and my new year's resolution was to STOP eating junk food, I have to confess I am doing a miserable job keeping up my end of the bargain. I just CANNOT stop myself!

I am not cutting out that which is bad for the sole purpose of losing weight. It is simply because I feel crabby and sluggish and bad about myself when I overindulge. So why can't I quit it???!!! It seems the more I tell myself I can't have something the more I crave it! But I guess that's true of so many things in the world.

The foods I can't seem to overcome an addiction to are Baked Lays, lunchmeat, Goldfish, chicken cheese steaks, white bread, Hershey Kisses, stuffed shells, nachos, french fries, and cream cheese. The thing is I actually like wheat bread and Baked Lays aren't the WORST thing I could eat. But it all went downhill while I was watching the SAG awards Sunday night and consumed 1/4 pint of Haagen Daas double chocolate chip ice cream. Of all the ice creams Haagen Daas is the tastiest, and unfortunately the most fattening (which IS the reason it is soooo delicious). I felt so awful after, and not because I had eaten the ice cream--it was really good--but because I could not implement any self-control. So as so many analysts claim--is an obsession with food truely mind over matter?

I need help! I have to put down the bacon and pick up a carrot. More salad, less carbs. Give up the crunch I crave from chips for the crunch from an apple. The thing is I love fruit and vegetables. I also hate to cook which could be the problem. I workout constantly and very infrequently miss trips to the gym but its not enough. So anyone out there in blog-land with any tips that could cure me--please HELP! Because I don't think the supermarkets will grant my wish of removing Haagen Daas from freezer cases any time soon.

TTYL, Heather

Stayin' Alive...but barely.

2006-01-27T12:19:00.000-08:00

First, let me say for those of you listening to Paul Kelly today--I AM NOT THE CULPRIT OF THE FOWL ONION SMELL SUFFOCATING THE STUDIO. That would be Kevin, our recently-turned-vegan Assistant Promotions Director. I myself enjoyed a very tasty BLT from Jack's in Pleasantville which I ate to fast to leave any lingering smell.

That being said, let's get on with the business of BLOGGING!

It's Friday and its my favorite day of the week. This is true for 2 reasons: 1. It's the end of the week, hello?!, and 2. Duh, the Big 80's Weekend. So I thought I would take this opportunity to defend one of my favorite (and widely underrated) movies--"Stayin' Alive".

Okay, before you give me the "Omigod did she just say 'Stayin' Alive'?" reaction hear me out. Yes, I am referring to the sequel to the 70's cult classic "Saturday Night Fever". Part two brings us back in contact with Tony Menaro, the character immortalized by John Travolta ("he hits my hair...Ya know I work hard on my hair and he hits it!"). True the character developement is not as prevelant in "Stayin' Alive" as in the original, but this movie is like a car crash--you don't want to watch but you can't help yourself.

"Stayin' Alive" finds Tony Menaro out of his native Brooklyn and in the heart of NYC's Manhattan. No longer disco-in' down at the 2001 Odyssey club, Tony aims to hit it big as a dancer on Broadway. The movie canvases his journey from lowly bo-hunk to 42nd St. success.

Now as I said I fully give over that the characters in the sequel aren't nearly as tortured as in "Saturday Night Fever", yet I find myself wildly amused by them all. John Travolta is on fire as a dancer and in such good shape he would rival Brad Pitt's "Fight Club" physique (by the way his hair is grown out, and he is tan, and he is dripping with sweat 3/4 of the film--HOTTTT!!!). Cynthia Rhodes (wife of Richard Marx and Penny in "Dirty Dancing") co-stars as the Tony-obsessed Jackie, a fellow dancer who just can't seem to get her love interest to make a commitment to her. Cynthia Rhodes not only dances in the movie, she sings as well. She has the kind of voice on soundtrack songs like "Finding Out The Hard Way" that could easily have fit her into the 80's music scene as a solo artist had she not had better success as an actress.

However, in my opinion the REAL star of "Stayin' Alive" is Finola Hughes (Ana on General Hospital and host of "How Do I Look?" on Style Network). Hughes plays Laura, the hoity-toity (please forigve if I misspelled THAT one), well-0ff, well-bread, "I'm sexy and I know it", "I'm beautiful and I know it", "I am the greatest dancer and I know it", British-bred socialite. Laura captivates Tony from the moment he sees her dance. Her long flowing black hair and to-die-for dancer's body addict Tony instantly. Laura realizes this and uses it to her advantage to successfully string Tony along and make him her new "project". The pair start an unrequited love affair that lasts until the very last scene of "Stayin' Alive". Finola Hughes is VICIOUS, self-obsessed, and more importantly, quick-witted. There is nothing she can't have. But once she has something its old news. She has the best lines in the film--lines that make you hate her and love her at the same time. Hughe's character is part of the reason I am so mellodramatic. I saw the movie at 5 years old and walked around talking in a British accent for months. I have every single line of hers memorized and she may be a bad-ass (this I am not) and self-centered (this I am not either) but her stingy attitude is palpable.

Quickly, the soundtrack includes several new Bee Gees tunes, and because the film was directed by, get this, Sylvester Stallone, his brother Frank picks up the rest of the slack. Frank Stallone created one of my favorite movie themes "Far From Over", a song that would ultimately end up on Mike and Diane's 40 Worst Sings of All-Time list.

No, the movie or soundtrack wasn't a bounty of success or critical acclaim but the real stars of "Stayin' Alive" shine--the dancing which is wildly entertaining, and the 3-way love triangle.

Rent it. Heck, buy it since I think its only $5 on the clearance rack at any movie store.

TTYL, Heather

When Two Become One

2006-01-22T15:22:00.000-08:00

Been gone awhile I know. Feeling a bit uninspired lately. Watching E! News Weekend today cured that. So to get right on with it--What in the h-e-double hockey sticks is up with the media identifying celebrity couples by ONE name?

Okay, I have to admit it was MILDLY comedic to refer to Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck as "Bennifer". I myself am guilty of using the term. But I should have known the whole "2 Become 1" fad was a bit out of control when "Bennifer" transitioned to "JennAffleck" and "JLofleck".

It's natural for even more celeb-envy to set in when two incredibly sexy and attractive stars cohabitate. In general, when two people fall in love the atmosphere can be magnetic. But when it's someone like Ben and Jenn it's even harder to take your eyes, and your imagination, away. Wondering how they got together, who were they with (if anyone) when the courtship began, how many carats will the bling be if engagement ensues, who becomes the wedding dress designer, and finally HOW LONG WILL IT ALL LAST???!!! Celebrity coupling has even become a betting cult in Las Vegas and in the court of public opinion until you are on the edge of your seat waiting for an impending split.

All of the above is acceptable to a fault. A fun distraction if you will from our my-so-called-ordinary-lives. But the line has to be drawn SOMEWHERE. Ben Affleck got lucky. He eventually went on the marry another Jennifer (Jennifer Garner) after his breakup with Lopez, thereby leaving him free from any other last name collaborations. Enter "Brangelina". That's right--THE king and THE queen and eptiomies of HOT--Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie. The public was ever more forgiving of Brad's "alleged" infideltiy commited against fellow sex symbol and wife Jennifer Aniston because Angelina was considered by men AND some women to be an "upgrade". Understandable. But who sits around with pen to paper coming up with the possible scenarios of what the couple will further be known as? I can't remember anyone referring to Marilyn Monroe and Joe Di Maggio as "MonMaggio", or Liz Taylor and Richard Burton as "Elizadick". So as if we didn't already have gag reflex from the whole JLo-Affleck phenomenon we now have their pairing to thank for this new phase of media manipulation. Let's hope its JUST a phase (however, I must say I do fear for what will happen with the upcoming Jolie-Pitt offspring--waiting with baited breath).

The whole irriation that started this blog in the first place came from one Giulianna De Pandi (E! News coorespondent) dubbed Vince Vaughn and Jennifer Aniston "Vaughniston". You can help end this ridiculous trend by restraining yourself from feeding into the frezny. GOOD LUCK!

TTYL! Heather

Resolution Revolution

2006-01-08T16:15:00.000-08:00

Welcome one and all to 2006. A new year, a chance to right the wrongs. On January 1st of every new year there is one word on almost everyone's lips--RESOLUTION.

We all have a string of them--some achieved, most left to linger. The old stand-bys still hold true. To quit smoking, lose weight, save money, get motivated, yadda yadda yadda. My resolutions (and I need to start with just 2 since its rare that I ever finish what I start) are 1. To put an end to my tardiness. 2. To clean up after my disorganized self. Simple right? Well just as many others fail to stick to a diet or stay away from nicotine, I'm not doing so well.

It's January 8th. One week into the new year and instead of tending to the loads of laundry collecting dust or sorting out that pesky junk drawer in the kitchen I am sitting on my lazy tush watching football. I can't seem to bargain with myself a good enough reason to do something--anything. Christmas presents still linger close to where the tree USED to be. Stacks of outdated magazines are still piled high on a bookshelf. Bags of summer close still wait to be stowed away. I just can't seem to keep the old adage "don't put off till tomorrow that which can be done today" fresh in my mind. I am my own worst enemy.

The alarm clock continues to be my arch enemy as well. AAHHH the SNOOZE button. Is there anything MORE convenient in this world? Convenience isn't the word to describe my overuse of snooze--ABUSE would be more the word. I have such good intentions. I believe that at 30 years old I should be mature enough to force myself to get up when the alarm goes off the FIRST time. Who else is going to do it for me? No one. I've even tried putting the alarm clock across the room so that I have no choice but to pull myself out of bed the cease the annoying beeping. No luck. My bed calls my name like the Sirens to Odysseus. The only thing I was ever early for was my birth. I am notoriously late no matter WHERE I am going. I would love to save myself the stress of rushing around all the time. Its like my body just rejects the notion of not waiting till the last minute to do everything. Do I just have to face that I am ill-prepared and get used to it?

New Year's resolutions just add up to one thing--pressure. Life is tough enough without having to worry about living up the one's own expectations. I will continue to try but something tell's me I will be sleeping in tomorrow and have nothing to wear. Any ideas on how to stick with the program? Shoot. I am all ears.

TTYL! Heather

Movies and Music: The Year in Review

2005-12-30T17:04:00.000-08:00

Well, its been quite a busy week leading into the New Year's Weekend. Its Friday night and I am combing my closet trying to come up with SOMETHING to wear to the WAYV Big 80's New Years Eve Bash tomorrow night at Trump Marina. Of course I am like every other woman--I simply have NOTHING to wear.

Frustrated attempting to concoct my party ensemble, and since I am listening to The Emancipation of Mimi (one of my favorite CD's of the year), I decided to take a break and give you a rundown of my personal list of the best albums of 2005.

5. Something To Be--Rob Thomas's effort to make a name for himself away from his band Matchbox 20 paid off a million times over--literally. His first solo effort went to number one its first week and has since gone platinum. The tunes are INFECTIOUS and Rob's image has gotten hotter than ever. Tunes like "Lonely No More" and "When The Heartache Ends" are as uncharacteristic for Rob as his new haircut--but it works. Rob will be back in the studio with 20 in January but I say give me more ROB and just ROB.

4. Fireflies--Faith Hill was widely criticized in 2002 for her album CRY, my personal favorite in her catalog. Cry's R&B edge put off her country fans and was a a commercial flop--and no one noticed more than Faith. On her 05 release FIREFLIES Faith runs right back to her country roots with tunes like "Mississippi Girl" as if she has something to prove to her critics and her fans. However, this is not the country Faith we were introduced to in 1993--this Faith is all grown up and it shows most on the headstrong "I Ain't Gonna Take It Anymore" and the haunting anthem "Paris".

3. Breakaway--I hate to admit this but when I was first given an advanced copy of the latest Kelly Clarkson CD, I was convinced it wouldn't merit more hits than just the title track. I COULDN'T have been more wrong could I? It took awhile for me to warm up to "Since You've Been Gone" but once "Behind These Hazel Eyes" hit the AYV airwaves I was forced to take a second listen. This time I heard what millions of Kelly fans had already figured out. Kelly has broken the American Idol mold and has easily created 4 of the most memorable singles of the year. Something tells me her new song "Walk Away" will take her well into 2006 too.

2. Late Registration--Kanye West is not your typical rapper. He is a socially conscious, politically aware lyricist who just HAPPENS to rap. Add in the fact that he is one of the most coveted music producers in the industry and you find yourself just HAVING to find out what all the fuss is about. Kanye's 05 chart-dominator "Golddigger" was too brilliant to get off your radio or out of your head. Throw Jamie Foxx onto the track and you've got, well--Gold. Late Registration does what few CD's can do. It smashes the sophomore jinx moving leaps and bounds beyong Kanye's Grammy-winning debut College Dropout. I can't recommend this CD enough if you are looking to broaden your collection.

1. The Emancipation of Mimi--I was lucky enough to be in New York City with Mariah Carey for the launch of MIMI. A 15-year Mariah fan, even I couldn't forecast that THIS would be the album that would return her to platinum and critical status. On my first listen of Mimi I got CHILLS because it was the first album since her 1990 debut that I loved all the way through right away. I knew it was something special, but after the "Glitter" debacle I didn't think anyone else would give it a chance. Something clicked with the first single "It's Like That" enough to give Mariah the momentum she needed to release its follow-up "We Belong Together". Music journalists labeled this tune "The Retutn of The Voice". The tune stayed at #1 on the Billboard charts for almost 3 months and helped to gain Mariah a new fan-base and 8 Grammy nominations. 5 million copies-sold can't be wrong.

Don't forget to listen to Ryan Seacrest Sunday night at 8pm on WAYV as he counts down the Top 40 songs of 2005. Talk to you next year! Happy new year! Heather

That's A Wrap

2005-12-25T17:11:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas all! Hope its been a fun-filled 48 hours for you and your family but it's all over for '05. That means another 364 days have to pass before we get another 24 hours of A Christmas Story, and that makes me sad. It was such an INSANELY hectic day that I didn't even get to see my favorite Christmas movie once from beginning to end.

I'll set the scene for you--5, count them, 5 little girls all under the age of 9 invading my once childhood home. Some of the 5 are ANGELS. The others? Not so much. The first of the 5 princesses arrived shortly after noon and away it went. Just as I am getting my front row seat to the first round of gift-opening, my best friend Nicole and her significant other Sal popped by and so commensed the consuming of the spirits. Jellybeans my father called them. I called them SHOTS FROM HELL. Blackberry Brandy and Anisette may as well have been BATTERY ACID. So I switched to mimosas. I LOVE champagne and at least I can claim the orange juice is giving me my daily dose of Vitamin C.

Just as one guest is leaving THE OTHERS arrive. My cousin is mother to 4 little girls. That meant the living room turned into FAO Schwartz. Toy after toy after toy. Wrapping paper and bows flying. All that work out the window! Running from one blonde lovely to the next in a round-robin of frenzied gift-giving. Boy was Santa good to them!

Enter Theresa, my other gal-pal partner-in-crime. So yep, you guessed it--more champagne. About 4 stuffed shells, 2 canolis, and countless pieces of pepperoni I was spent! Family time wears me out, but I LOVE IT and really wouldn't have it any other way--because I have never known it any other way.

Santa's sure been good to me as well. Fave gift? A baby-blue velour Shabby Chic blanket. Something to keep me warm this winter and hold me over until next year's festivities. And so closes Christmas 2005. Next up? Ringing in the new year retro-style at the WAYV Big 80's New Years Eve Bash at Trump Marina! Taylor Dayne, Morris Day and the Time, and WAYV (by the way tickets ARE still available through 951WAYV.com if you'd like to add yourself to the party)!

Merry Christmas to all and to ALL a good night!!!
XOXO, HD.

BIKINI BOOTCAMP...ALREADY???

2005-12-21T11:46:00.000-08:00

Hey there, I have returned. I've been a bit pre-occupied and fried thanks to the stress of the holiday season. Fa-la-la-la-la! Ready for Christmas? NO? Still have shopping, baking, wrapping, trimming, cooking, and driving to do? EXACTLY! So you can imagine my surprise (the kind that literally stops you in your tracks) when I rolled into Target the other day and the first thing in my sightline was the SWIMSUIT DISPLAY! And, no, not the 75% off clearance rack of skivvies leftover from the summer of '05, but the real things brand new and fully priced. WHY????

It's not that I don't look FORWARD to summertime, I am a beach bunny like any other South Jersey girl. But I am not ready (4 days before Christmas) to even fathom the prospect of shopping for a swimsuit. I consider myself quite obsessed with fashion and I do like to keep up on upcoming trend forecasts, but we only officially reach winter tomorrow. Retail stores BARELY give you time to enjoy the pending holidays before they usher the next one in. Before you know it Halloween, Valentine, and Christmas decorations will be available in every department and discount store year round. The world is a in-a-hurry place as it is so I am putting down my foot! This is my declaration:

I WILL NOT SHOP FOR HALLOWEEN CANDY BEFORE THE START OF THE SCHOOL YEAR.

I WILL NOT CONSIDER THANKSGIVING MENUS BEFORE THE HALLOWEEN CANDY IS GONE.

I WILL NOT BEGIN BIKINI BOOTCAMP WHEN THERE ARE STILL XMAS COOKIES TO BE EATEN.

I WILL NOT CHOOSE A VALENTINE UNTIL DECEMBER 26TH.

I WILL NOT TRACK DOWN THE EASTER BUNNY BEFORE MY VALENTINE FLOWERS WILT.

That's all I have to say about that.

xoxo, HD.

'Tis Better To Give...

2005-12-14T12:47:00.000-08:00

So much giving going on this week on WAYV. The WAYV Christmas Song of The Day is STILL going strong, and you have MANY more chances this week to win Disney on Ice tickets and POSSIBLY that fabulous $595 Hamilton Mall Gift Card.
(P.S.--Mike and Diane reveal the next song of the day at 6:10, 7:10, AND 8:10 tomorrow morning to give you an extra advantage!)

As fantastic as it is to receive wonderful gifts during the holidays, I find its more rewarding to give. And we're giving you the chance to give back to needy families in South Jersey with the WAYV Kids Coat Drive. Its taking place this coming Sunday between the hours of 10a-5p at the Walmart in Mays Landing. Come on, lets face it--you KNOW you and your kids have some unwanted outerwear stuffed in the back of your closets just collecting dust so why not put coats you've outgrown to good use? Its like giving them a second life and getting more out of the money you paid when they were bought.

Its a REALLY GREAT way to make some space in your closets and help a good cause at the same time. Getting the kids involved will be fun and productive for them too.

I am well aware that we are all short on free time with all these holiday obligations, but helping to shelter a child from the cold will only take a moment. So I EMPLORE you to please take some time to join the AYV Party Crew Sunday at Walmart. You most likely will be making a trip anyway for last minute gifts, scotch tape, wrapping paper and all the gift trimmings (or if you're a guy you'll JUST be starting your holiday shopping :-P).

Give yourself 5 minutes to search out your unwanted jackets and give back to the community this holiday! Hope to see you Sunday between 10a-5p for the WAYV Kids Coat Drive at Walmart in Mays Landing!

Happy Holidays! TTYL, Heather P.S.--feel free to throw in any unwanted hats, gloves, and scarves as well!

3 Cheers for Capote

2005-12-13T06:35:00.000-08:00

Ok, so about 3 days ago I said I would be back to fill you in on an EXTRAORDINARY film I forbid you to miss. In the back of this week's Entertainment Weekly magazine horror-genre writer Stephen King named his Top 10 films of the year. Very close to the top of his list is CAPOTE, and I couldn't agree more.

Truman Capote was one of the most beloved, controversial, and flamboyant American writers of the 20th century. Capote is well known for his book "Breakfast at Tiffanys" which was later made into the classic movie starring Audrey Hepburn. During the late 70's and up until his death from alcoholism in 1981, Truman Capote was a staple at the famed New York City club Studio 54 and a cohort of fellow artist Andy Warhol.

In the mid 1960's Capote, accompanied by "To Kill A Mockingbird" author Harper Lee, travelled to rural Kansas to investigate and research the murder of a family of four at their farm. During his attempt to obtain the gruesome details of the slayings, Capote befriends the 2 suspects accused (and later convicted) of the murders. Visiting one of the two convicts (now sitting on death row for the killings) on a frequent basis, Truman becomes conflicted and tortured by his own trickery needed to get the full story of what happened to the Clutter family to complete the final chapter of what would become his best-selling novel "In Cold Blood". Once his mission and his novel are complete, Capote cycles into a deep, alcohol-induced depression and never again finishes a novel.

Truman Capote is BRILLIANTLY portrayed by Philip Seymour Hoffman (Twister, Boogie Nights, Talented Mr. Ripley) in his most convincing and moving performance yet. An Academy Award nomination, and possible win, should not be far behind. If you can allow yourself to get past Hoffman's voice (which is whiney to say the least in true Capote fashion) and get lost in true story behind Capote's incredible novel, you will find one of the most captiviating films of the year. CAPOTE is in limited release as it is an independent feature film, but the leg-work it will take in finding a theater where its being shown is well worth the payoff. TWO (of my very own) ENTHUSIASTIC THUMBS UP FOR CAPOTE!!!!!

TTYL! Heather

We need a Holiday

2005-12-10T10:28:00.000-08:00

Well, its Saturday on another Big 80's weekend on WAYV, and I'm sitting around this afternoon watching a Big 80's movie--Back to the Future. 1.21 jigwatts!

Another WAYV holiday party is on the books and it was a blast as usual. Its always fun to trade in my jeans and boots for a sparkly dress. However, I could probably have done without my impromtu karaoke rendition of "Paradise By The Dashboard Light". Suddenly the dance floor of Angelo's Fairmount Tavern was turned into a Broadway stage Meatloaf style complete with myself and Jim from our sales staff belting out the classic tune with our very own microphones. WOW! Someone does need to remind me that I'm NOT a very good singer!

Anyway, its a great time for the WAYV air staff to kick back and chat about something other than contests and celeb gossip. At Equity Communications we all really know how to have a suare and enjoy EVERY LAST MINUTE OF IT!

So today I'm recovering from a very late night. And later when I finally muster up an ounce of energy I'll attempt to remove the remnants of the mascara still clustered and smeared under my eyes. Makeup removal TRUELY is the worst part of the whole getting dolled-up for a night out thing.

In an hour or two I'll pick up the pictures from last nights shindig so I can see if there's anything on camera I missed in person. At the very least I have another interesting chapter for my diary and another cocktail dress desperately needing a trip to the cleaners thanks to my overdose of canolis and chocolate-covered strawberries.

Later when I have all my witts about me and I'm COMPLETELY lucid I will explain why EVERYONE needs to see a movie called CAPOTE starring Philip Seymour Hoffman. TTYL! Heather

WHAT'S UP CHUCK?

2005-12-06T12:18:00.000-08:00

It's FINALLY here! The most magical TV time of the year--Charlie Brown Xmas is on ABC tonight. It's the 40th anniversary and I myself will be watching it for the 30th time. It is a holiday tradition NOT TO BE MISSED. Cancel Fear Factor and the repeat of America's Next Top Model. Below are reasons why you should bow down to the BROWN either with friends, little ones, or allllll allllonnnee:

The "Aluminum Christmas Tree" theory as stated by Lucy Van Pelt (preferably a shiny pink one)
Shroeder bringing down the house on his piano (is he not the hottest cartoon character EVER?)
"Charlie Brown that is the most pathetic excuse for a Christmas tree I have ever seen. Now the Christmas pageant is ruined! RUINED!"
Sally Brown's letter to Santa inquiring about his summer and advising him if all else fails send $$$
"Every year I get the same thing. I never get what I really want. I always get toys or clothes or money. I never get what I really want." "What is it that you really want Lucy?" "Real Estate."
Linus waxing philosophical on the true meaning of Christmas.
Charlie Brown losing complete control of his ensemble while attempting to direct the Christmas pageant.

ENJOY boys and girls! Till next time. TTYL. Heather

LET IT SNOW!

2005-12-05T18:40:00.000-08:00

AAH, there's something about the first snow fall of the season that is inconvenient and magical all at once. Its really just an excuse to blow off 45 minutes on the treadmill in exchange for a hot lavender bath and some delectable hot chocolate (not to mention maybe JUST A BIT of reality TV--hello Nanny 911)!

Somehow, though, the bath and warm drink got put off for, surprise surprise, SHOPPING. This time for a MUCH NEEDED snow/ice scraper and a new blow dryer since I nearly pulled a Michael Jackson on the set of a Pepsi commerical trying to dry my hair this morning.

Returning to the couch and the boob tube I opted for a repeat of Law and Order (those shows NEVER get old) since Wife Swap was BORRRRINGGG! Not so much said about Nanny 911. Sometimes I don't know who is worse the parents or the children. However listening to twin 3 year olds curse at their mother is a way less aggravating headache then watching the Philadelphia Eagles try to pull off a win against the 1st place Seattle Seahawks, plus I already felt tears coming on when they retired Reggie White's jersee. My blood runs green but a life without Terrell Owens and Donovan McNabb is no life at all.

So in just a few minutes I will check the snow accumulation on the hood of my car to help figure out how much of my morning routine will get occupied by scraping and de-icing, then I will pop on MTV for the brand new season of Real World/Road Rules Challenge The Gauntlet. Hey its no Laguna Beach or Making the Band 3 but, again, better than the Eagles. Nighty night my snow bunnies and happy shovelling! HD

Sunday Night Slump

2005-12-04T15:16:00.000-08:00

Well Hello all! Its Heather and its Sunday night. I've been sitting here watching football for about 30 hours so I figured I would check out this "blogging" phenomenon in between my obsessive sessions of an online game called "BEDAZZLED" (to which I am HIGHLY addicted, its a problem). So I will be honest and show my age all at once by saying I actually just found out a few days ago what this blogging thing is all about. Everyone would ask if I "blog" and I would politely say yes and try to figure out what they were talking about. "Blogging". Kind of an online diary for all the world to see right? A bit voyeristic if you ask me but in this age of the information superhighway who am I to shun technology.

So here I am--my first blog. It'll have to be about my weekend I suppose. Well, tis the season so the weekend commensed in much shopping! So much for my deadline of Black Friday. Boys are SO HARD to shop for. If you are a woman reading this then you can sympathize. If you are a man, HELP A GIRL OUT WILL YA??!!! LOL. A shoulder shrug and uninterested "I don't know" isn't the response we're looking for when we ask what tops your gift list this year.

SUNDAY NIGHT--just a reminder that the weekend has yet again flown by too fast. Its just a day racing to get last minute laundry finished for the work week, take out food, and trying to get my boyfriend to knock off the Fantasy Football nonsense for 5 minutes. LOL. "Manic Monday"? No, "Manic Sunday" for me. I will go to bed tonight remembering that I forgot to plan my lunch for tomorrow and figure out an ensemble ahead of time so I don't run out of the house in my slippers again. I'll admit thats happened more than once.

I should probably include something fun in this maiden blog of mine. So I will toss out a few things that are entertaining me as of late (complete with a 1-4 star rating system):

Book: Lipstick Jungle by Candace Bushnell
*** so far (got about 30 pages to go), but Candace is the mastermind behind Sex and The City, plus NBC is turning it into a TV show for next fall

Movie: The Polar Express directed by Robert Zmeckis
**** enthusiastically! Whether its IMAX or in the comfort of your own home its a must for the holiday season. My fave is the "Hot Chocolate Song"

CD: Merry Christmas by Mariah Carey
****Its been re-released with 2 new songs and a DVD of corresponding videos (some animated). Yes Mariah is certifiable since her breakdown but the gal was still making great tunes in 1994.

TV: Grey's Anatomy (Sundays ABC)
**** Hands down THE BEST SHOW ON TV right now. Great writing, great acting--funny, sad, dramatic and original. Two reasons to watch? Patrick Dempsey DUH!

Thats the blog! Enjoy! Till we meet again, TTYL
Heather