InventorSpot

It looks as though AI has streamlined their taping technique. Last year they started auditions before the prior year's end. This year they start auditions, what looks to be, months later than they did originally.

Is it possible that they've decided they don't need as much time as before? That would sure be a first!! Usually, shows like this discover at the end of the day that they needed more time than they were allotted.

My fear is that AI did not bring in the sort of numbers that ABC had been hoping for last year, and that this year the resources allowed for this show is less than before.

If this is the case (and I truly hope not), then we can expect things to be a bit more compressed and uncomfortable for the contestants this year as compared to last year. Uhg! Could someone dispel my fears and give us a good explanation as to the taping and audition procedure change? (Please) Or, could somebody prove to us just how successful AI was last year for ABC - Does anyone have access to any positive comments made by the studio executives about the show? Or, last year's total budget figures compared to this year's - You know, anything at all to show how AI is doing.

What are the dates and places for Feb.? Some need at least 30 days notice to get off work!

Yes you folks were right on with the Feb. March predicted times for the American inventor auditions. I recieved a notice myself but I haven't heard a word since then. Feburary is getting pretty close also. Anyone heard any more? I would appreciate any news . Thanks

Re:  Liquid container cap with integral steeper.

Dear Readers,

I would like to introduce my idea of an integral steeper beneath a disposable cup lid.  The idea of an integral steeper beneath any lid came to me while traveling the world.  As a passionate tea connoisseur I found myself battling with loose tea bags overlapping wet disposable cups and fishing to dispose of an over steeped tea bag while on the go.  Over the years I have improved what was at first an idea of a new, useful, non-obvious way to savor my tea.  
This patented concept is ideal for those who wish to enjoy their tea, yet maintain a busy day without sacrificing quality time for quality living.  The lid allows for timed release of steeping creating balanced flavor. Further, it provides sanitary disposal of the tea bag.  As an air traveler, this improvement is a welcomed, simple, practical and aesthetically pleasing idea that involves only a low cost of changing the dye cut on lids.
My invention will allow for beverage lid manufacturing companies to address the consumer's comfort while enjoying a cup of tea on the go.  There is a worldwide increase of tea consumers today.  Six billion tea bags are produced per year in the US alone and internationally there is a growing demand for high quality steeped tea.    Just "HOOK IT UP"!
I invite you to explore my patent drawings where you will find my idea of an integral steeper beneath a disposable cup lid aimed at improving the global demands of the tea drinking industry.

http://www.tealid.com/technical.htm

FURTHERMORE:

I am in the process of marketing the steeper as a hook or tab on the bottom of disposable cup lids. I have a website and I have submitted an invention submission application to SOLO Cup Company asking them to become my manufacturer.

I will license my idea to a cup manufacturer for a period of time. At the moment I am not limited to SOLO; however, there is a possibility we will do future business. My invention would increase sales and thus profit by fulfilling a demand for a convenient way to steep tea. I hope to have my product on the market before the 2010 olympics in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Due to the large positive response that I have received from all who I have told about my invention; I am considering starting an online petition to demonstrate the demand for my product.

I believe that if my invention recieves more exposure, then the international consumers of tea will appreciate and crave my product, which fulfills a great need that exists for a proper steeper when consuming tea on the go.

I am very passionate about my product and will continue on my journey to " Hook Up" the world until my product is used commonly!

I would be glad to provide further details or information as you may request,

http://www.tealid.com

Very Truly Yours,

Claire Robinson

Claire Robinson is GENIUS!!

i don't know about genius claire but that sounds like a very good idea. it would come in handy on the way to work i guess!

jaren
good luck!

i mainly drink coffee, but that kind of lid may intrigue me to put aside the bean once in awhile and drink more tea! - jj jackson

Miss Robinson,

As an inventor, you look for publicity for your invention. You hope for a magazine to cover you, perhaps a manufacturer to take an interest in your idea, maybe even a local television station to do a story on you. Have you contacted Oprah?
I could see you sitting on that comfy chair next to the daytime queen and discussing your tea lid hook/tab steeper invention.

Your product sure would solve my on the go tea dilemmas!

There are a variety of different ways to contact Oprah Winfrey. First, contrary to popular belief, snail mail is still an effective form of communication. You can try to contact Oprah Winfrey via the Oprah Winfrey Show’s mailing address at: PO Box 909715, Chicago, Illinois 60690-9715. Alternatively, you can also send your comments to the Oprah Winfrey Show’s street address at: 110 N Carpenter St., Chicago, Illinois 60607-2146. If it’s the O Magazine you’re aiming for, write to: 300 W 57th Street, Floor 36, New York, New York 10019-3741.

Very cool Claire. Cheers!

John