Big Idea Update

Here I am taking time out from a very busy day to place my vote:

Here are Jeff Halpin, Colleen Doyle, and David Lee, some members of my digital team, astonished by how many votes were pouring and continue to pour into the blog!

Keep on voting!

Comments

[Christine Tayman]

I absolutely love the idea of this contest! The ideas are so fresh and yet they are all seem like they would be so many applications for all of them. I love the scrapbook idea but I like all of these great ideas.

[Joan Hajek]

Hi Martha!
I gave my vote! Am curious though and wonder if you read all the comments, or does your staff do it? I keep a blog as well and bake and craft. My family and friends call me Martha!

Joan

[greg]

Here's a big idea for ya. How about a series of "fix it" shows? Simple fixes around the home like leaky faucets, hanging a chandelier, etc. Martha, I know you can do everything.

[Nancy]

My vote is in!

Just wanted to let you know you are on my list of favorites and I never miss your show!

Keep up the great work!

[Wendy Eaton]

I am so excited about the possibility of a magazine that will feature gluten free cooking!! I loved the show Martha did last year that featured Baby Cakes (an allergen free bakery). My daughters are both Celiacs, so I am a gluten free cook. I am always happy to find new ideas - especially if it were from the Martha Kitchen! I hope this 'Great Idea' is able to keep it's lead!

[Heidi from Wyoming]

I have Celiac Disease and love to bake. I am always modifying recipes from Martha's Baking Handbook into gluten free versions. It would be wonderful to have a magazine devoted to allergen free recipes that have been tried and retried until they are "Martha" approved! If MSO does publish such a magazine I will be your number one subscriber.

[Cheryl]

I voted for the publication on food allergies because I feel there is a ral and growing need for a good resource with organic and un altered foods. However I feel that several of the iedeas were good and feel it would be a shame to ignore them if they don't win the competition. many people love their pets as if they were part of the family and feel that many would enfory that publication also. I am not a scrapbooker or someone who does a lot on the computer but in this tech based world I can see the benefit to this project also. I do like to go to flea markets and I noticed the publication for collectors was not recieving many votes but that may be because your show is not geared to collectors and they were not watching or on your website. I feel a quarterly publication would attract some of these people right now the publications out there are very limited and you have to know where to look to find them. Good luck with all.

[Angela]

I'm all for the publication for allergies -- We are always on the look out for any information relating to allergy-free food. We have been doing the gluten-free, casein-free, yeast-free diet for about 5 years. I am just finishing a book on how to do the diet (gluten-free, casein-free, yeast-free, and no dyes, additives, preservatives, and artificial flavorings); I hope to get it published ASAP.
(We also have other allergies and intolerances, but the above seems to be the diet that helps most with autistic spectrum disorder issues.)

[Susan]

As a mother of a child with Celiac disease I would love to see a Martha magazine featuring gluten free cooking and baking!

[Jan Erickson]

Hi Martha, You have certainly opened "Pandora's Box" with these most fascinating "Big Ideas"! It is absolutely fantastic to see almost 140,000 votes in less than 2 days. At this pace, you could have a million votes by Feb. 7th. WOW! I've go to go vote again. Jan

[Margie]

Okay Martha, if you vote on line does that mean you have to sit on your hands in the board room? No cheating and voting over 100 times.

[the farmers wife]

Is it like Chicago politics? Vote once, vote twice and vote often?

- Suzanne, the Farmer's Wife

[erik scott forster]

I'm gluten and casein intolerant. I'm also a Martha Stuart devotee. Combining Martha with food and environmental sensitivity awareness would be a GREAT thing! Many folks with food sensitivities have no I idea how to live--and they have to learn in order to live--great potential. Good luck!

[Gluten Free Steve]

I'm all for Alexis' magazine!

[Susan]

That's certainly a dinosaur of a monitor that Martha is using. I was relieved to see her staff member using two flat screens.

[Hildy]

Food allergies - absolutely. What a wonderful benefit to help others with their health - especially moms who are struggling how to best feed their kids.

[Joe B]

The e-com scrapbook is a great idea in a digital world. especially if it can be customized with our own best ideas from Martha Stewart.

[Lou]

I was so hoping for a gardening idea. Maybe it's the next big idea.
But these are great. Cannot decide along so many good ones.

[Jennifer B. Smith]

I am another farmer's wife with gluten and casein issues, and on a wheat farm, no less. My passion is flavorful, gluten free, casein free food. My pets also eat the same way.

[Maria]

I voted for the e-scrapbook because I am always dying to try all the crafts that Martha talks about, but don't have a high quality color printer. I think this application could also work for any of the templates that are in the magazine, etc. I would love to design and then order crafts online. I'm very impressed with the person who came up with this!

[Penny]

A food allergy magazine with recipes!!!! Yes! It's original and it's needed--a lot! Safe and delicious recipes....family and friends who understand more about food allergies, the importance of labeling and reading labels, cross contamination. You could change people's lives with this idea. We have just recently begun avoiding some suspected food allergens. I have been researching the topic and I am truely amazed at what people don't know about food allergies--myself included...then there is the challenge of substitutions to make your old recipes safe and still have then turn out delicious. Being able to try new recipes and know that they were going to be safe and delicious.... Please, please publish this magazine--and please include at least a section on kid favorites. It's so hard for the little ones when they can't have their favorites anymore or they can't have what their friends are all having. Safe alternatives are so welcome.

[Laney U.]

I think Barbara's idea is absolutely brilliant! Who wouldn't love to be able to shop, socialize, learn something new and see all the latest products that Martha has come out with, and all under one roof! I think it's a no-brainer. My vote goes to the Martha Store!

[theresa gettle]

How cool is this....I could not decide between the store and the scrapbooking....I would love one central location to shop for all things Martha...but have a personal hobby of scraping....currently he store is winning my votes. Thank you for this opportunity !!!!

[Deb]

The ideas were all very good, but pick I must, here is to the pets!!!!

[Carol Mangano]

I would like to vote for the magazine for people with allergies, food intolerances like Celiac Disease. etc. If you do your research and find out that 1 in 133 people have CD, that is a huge portion of the population that would be interested in your publication.

[Jane Davis]

I was a bakery owner for 11 years, an early Martha fan and now a devoted grandma. I am thrilled with Alexis' idea. With three Celiacs (ages 5,29 and 66)in the family I am always adapting recipes and would be delighted to see a Martha publication
Jane Davis
Chicago, IL

[marybeth]

I am a Celiac Diseas sufferer as are my girls. I'm voting for Alexis. We NEED this Martha. And if anyone can do it right it is you and the team. Thanks.

[Brenda Lewis]

My grandson, who is 2 years old, has severe food allergies and I know his mom would love to have recipes and articles regarding food allergies, etc. Thanks for including that catagory.

[Beth]

I am one of the many mothers who has to deal with every classroom party, family get together/ holiday event and everyday life with food allergy concerns! Having a child that could potentially die from taking a mere bite of a food containing a treenut, I truly appreciate the possiblity of a food allery publication. Ideas on recipes that consider the top 8 food allergens as well as those with food intolerances (i.e. gluten and lactose), would be wonderful. Since dining out is an infrequent event due to the absolute uncertainty of cross contamination, it would be exciting to have a magazine that would offer ways to make "dining in" more interesting! Thank you for considering this type of publication as a possiblity!!!

[Jon]

Martha-
"The Big Idea" is outstanding!
I'm voting for a pet pub.
A MSL Pets magazine would be a smash hit. I think pet owners would enjoy reading a publication about how to better care for their companion animals.
Americans spend over 36-billion annually on their pets. Now that's a resource to tap into. Also the potential for advertisers would be vast.
Thanks for letting us have our two-cents!
Jon

[Heather Garner]

Martha,
We are in such a huge need for anything on food allergies. My little girl is 4 and suffers from extreme food allergies. Every day is as scary as the last. We created Food Allergy Faith Foundation in honor of her. We want to prevent other kids from severe reactions like my daughter has had. Thank you for the great show the other day on food allergies!! You are wonderful.

Best Wishes
Heather Garner
Food Allergy Faith Foundation
www.foodallergyfaith.org

[Eileen]

Hi Martha,

They are all really great ideas, you should consider doing all of them. I voted for the publication for people with dietary restrictions. If Martha Stewart Living does not help these folks - who will. If this publication is the winner please publish the nutritional analysis with the recipes, its invaluable for diabetics to know the carbs.

[Alisa Twarzynski]

Here is my 2 cents! A publication geared to people with food allergies, and intolerances is more than a must!!! my 7 year old son and I share the same malady (Celiac) seems it is hereditary especially with those of us who are of European descent. myself,(Polish). Other countries are by far ahead of America recognizing this disease, Please bring this publication to the forefront to help educate those of us who are unaware of this most dangerous epidemic!

[Jeannie New]

The food allergy idea is unique and fresh. Scrapbooking and pet catagories and well covered by many companies.

No powerful brand has addressed celiacs and those with food issues. What a market - I guess the early results are a good indication of how powerful this group of consumers really is.

[Tabitha]

Alexis- Your my hero.

All of the finailist ideas are great and could be great fun, but this could have a profound impact on peoples lives. Martha's name is well repected and a publication of this natur would help raise understanding and awarness.

[Linda]

Obviously, there’s a huge market of people who are hungry for allergy-friendly recipes and tips. I can tell you that the demand for high quality gluten-free baked goods has soared, as awareness and diagnosis of celiac disease has increased.

You could help so many people with food allergies and sensitivities and let people know that gluten-free, dairy-free, or egg-free does NOT have to involve deprivation! And a magazine could serve as a starting point – there are so many opportunities for expansion.

Did you know that your recipes are quite easily adapted to gluten-free, dairy-free baking? Your recipes are excellent, and a great starting point makes the conversion to gluten free much simpler. I’d love to see the same approach - reliable, seasonal, current, thorough, and beautifully presented – applied to a magazine that offers delicious allergy-friendly recipes.

[JO]

Heres my vote... they are all fabulous ideas! I think you should put them in some kind of order and do them ALL... like a priority list with what would be the most important then second etc... would hate to see any of theme hit the trashbin

JO

[Bob G]

I am truly excited at the idea of a magazine that's main focus is to offer allergy friendly recipes is leading the pack.

Having Celiac's has been a major change in my life and the need to keep a gluten free household is paramount, as little as taking the "host" at church is enough to send my system into problems for about 2 weeks. My wife and I have adapted many recipes to be GF and will continue, but the thought of a magazine to offer new idea's is FANTASTIC.

Celiac Sprue is one of the most undiagnosed diseases in the USA, affecting 1 in every 133 people. The manifestations of the disease are far reaching and have been linked to other debilitating diseases such as degenerative bone disease, osteoporosis, MS, cancer, autism, arthritis, infertility, fibromyalgia, tyroid and pancreatic disorders to name a few. Although celiac's is a hereditary disease, for many it doesn't rear it's ugly head until the 3rd or 4th decade of life and many time miss diagnosed as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Chrone's, etc. At that point the damage to your body has been done.

I want to congratulate Alexis on a great idea and to thank her too.. Good luck and hope your "Next Big Idea" wins ..

[Leslie]

Thank you Martha for having this contest. It will mean a lot to those who suffer from alleries to food and especially those with Celiac disease. This disease is one of the most undiagnosed diseases in the world and most people have no idea how important it is to be totally Gluten and Gliaden free. I have had it all of my life but was not diagnosed with it until I was 52. I now have Chronic Kidney disease, hyperparathyroidism, a goiter, pernicious anemia,osteopenia, osteoarthritis,asthma, allergies to many things, bi-polar disorder, and I could go on and on. Please help to promote drugs free from gluten and gliaden and do this magazine. Leslie

[Debbie A. Pierce]

I am voting for Alexis. Having Celiac Disease for over 40 years and just being diagnosed 3 years ago has presented me with some unique challenges that most Celiacs don't face (or at least I don't know of anyone else experiencing what I am). I would love to see a magazine for people with allergies and food sensitivities.

[Lou Parrotta]

Martha!!!

Please do an issue on Celiac Disease

[Rosalie Parrotta]

Martha-

I love you! As a longtime sufferer of Celiac Disease - over 15 years - the idea of an entire magazine on Gluten Free Diets is awesome.

PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE do one.

Thank you.

Rosalie Parrotta
Frankfort, NY

[Donna]

Very excited sbout a magazine devoted to allergy free cooking and baking.
Alexis has a great big idea! There are many foods I miss, even though the world of gluten free living has improved.

[smonahan]

If the concept for the "big idea" submission is purely commercial--obviously the store drives a lot of enthusiasm and a lot of financial gain for MSLO...if public service, health or education is a goal at all, then the food intolerance focus is the most beneficial...

I certainly hope the latter is true and vote "early and often" for an allergy friendly issue...

[barbara howell]

why can't you do them all. I like all of them and especially the allergy cookbook. I am loaded with food allergies and many others do and do not know it.

[Andrew Ritchie]

Oh... {sigh}

I guess there are far more people with food allergies than I ever imagined. And I guess it is more easily doable than a massive store. And I guess it would help a lot of people.

But forgive those of us who do not have food allergies (or who do not know anyone with them) if we decided to take a pass.

There's not much in a magazine like that for most people. It would be a 'niche publication' to be sure.

If this is a "Big Idea" contest, shouldn't it take the "Big Picture" into consideration, be as inclusive as possible with promises of sustainability?

I'm taking this WAY too seriously, aren't I? LOL!

They're all excellent ideas. Good luck to all.

-Andrew in Canada

[hope connors brown]

Have been inspired by the ideas from all the brilliant talented artisan submissions that you publish and share for about 20 years! (I'm 45) Am amazed at how your guests and on every show can eat ALL the foods produced- are there any allergic/ sensitive guests? I am chemically sensitive and intolerant to gluten, corn, dairy, yeast, peanuts, anything fermented... so admire what you all share, yet always have to ALTER or just get the jist of the combinations. HOORAY to Alexis for pushing the idea- and THRILLED to see how many other needy and wanting viewers/ readers agree too!!!! Gracias!

[DONNA]

DEAR MARTHA,
AS A STOCK HOLDER IN YOUR COMPANY, I WOULD SURE LIKE TO SEE A "STORE"
COME ABOARD. I THINK IT WOULD BE A FRESH NEW APPROARCH TO MARTHA STEWART LIVING.
IF,HOWEVER THIS IS NOT VOTED AS THE BEST, THEN I CAN SURELY SEE A MAGAZINE FOR PEOPLE WITH FOOD ALLERGIES, ALSO, A NEW SPIN FOR MARTHA STEWART LIVING.
KEEP UP THE GOOD WORKS, MARTHA. I HAVE AlWAYS BEEN IN YOUR CORNER NO MATTER WHAT!!
DONNA

[Jessie Platzer]

I will definitely give my vote to Alexis' idea. A gluten-free, allergy aware magazine combined with the creativity of Martha and her team...oh, the possibilities!

[SF]

I am interested in the pet magazine idea and see that it is currently at a close second. If this idea is selected as the winner, I would LOVE to see recipes that are pet-friendly and veterinarian approved as an alternative to store bought pet food (i.e. homemade doggie biscuits). Perhaps some of these recipes could help pets with allergies, young and old, thin and plump, and with fur or feather. Big fan!

[Whitney]

I think the allergy freindly magazine is a wonderful idea. I have 2 young sons, both with severe food allergies to eggs, milk, peanuts and tree nuts. I think the attention that you could give the issue of food allergies would be a wonderful thing. I am always looking for ways in which to make life as normal as possible for my boys. It is such a challenge on a day to day basis to find allergy friendly products.

[Sherry Sprouse]

I love the store idea. Forward thinking would mean a store in every major city. I would love to manage the store for Olympia, WA. Some ideas I would like to see, sewing machines where people could bring in a project and get help if needed like I find when going into a knitting store. Kitchens for cooking classes. Demonstration areas for crafts.

[Dianne]

Andrew - Thank you for understanding comments. In a sense, each of the "Big Idea" candidates is a "niche" market - pet lovers, digital scrapbookers, people in NY who would go to a MSL store, collectors, people who like cookbooks, as well as the allergy crowd also.

But all of the other ideas aside from the allergy idea (and the store idea) have plenty of material at their resources. And if people drop the hobby in favor of a new hobby, then the niche market for that "big idea" becomes even smaller. The food allergy folks...well, we're just stuck with it. We can't change our diets (believe me - we would if we could). So, anything Martha can do in this untouched market would be such a big help! Thank you again for your understanding and your {sigh}.

[Toni Lynn Caputo]

Dear Martha, I have been a long time follower of yours since your first Thanksgiving show in the mid 80's.My opinion is that you open a store bearing your name and incorporate everything following in your store so if a cookbook for people with food allergies is what I need then I will find it in your store along with other books on how to cook , scrapbooking, a cookbook from your employees,to how to on pets. Why not a section for the young urban living? I think you should incorporate it all under one roof THE MARTHA STEWART LIVING STORE as far as I'm concerned every idea is a winner under one roof

[Alex Cichon]

I cannot believe my choice is in the lowest percentile! I absolutely think a publication showcasing the rules, etiquette and general guidelines for antiquing. The New Vintage sounds fantastic and, even if it does not win, the fact that it is a one time publication should make it a feasible option anyway. Please, Martha, please publish it!

[Felicia Espineta]

Alexis's idea 110%!!! We've been gluten free for 2 1/2 years after my daughter very sick little girl was diagnosed prompting other family members to be tested. (However, some did not get a positive diagnosis, but respond remarkably on the diet, so medical diagnosis was inaccurate.) Celiac Disease is so common and the severity and variety of ways it effects those knowingly and unknowingly are astonishing.

Kudos to Alexis for this wonderful idea that will positively impact so many people with CD, food allergies, and/or intolerances!!!

[Alta Faye Fenton]

Having a daughter and granddaughter with celiac disease makes eating out so challenging. It gets boring having so few special recipes from which to prepare meals. This magazine for food intolerance and allergy issues would be nothing short of a godsend! This would be such a gift to so many people.

[Shellie Houston]

Ok. Food allergies is obviously a must...as I believe it all is...so my vote is for the store...one in every city, INCLUDING small ones, such as, say...Redding, ca. ALL of these ideas could be incorporated into the store so pet lovers, people with allergies, the young crowd..etc. could ALL benefit...and the new cookbooks, pet books,the new 'vintage' everything, ALL could be provided in the store...the store idea could be the step toward working toward each of these ideas! And, a bonus: what a wonderful opportunity to provide much needed jobs in so many places!!!!

[Jackie Smith]

Dear Martha,
How about higher education? I have an idea -- but maybe it's been proposed and tossed already. In recent years there's been such a renewed interest in decorating, cooking, crafting and what we used to call Home Economics, perhaps there's enough to develop an accredited educational program or (imagine) the Martha Stewart College. With the proper development and articulation with other colleges and universities, you could utilize already existing criteria for transferable general education courses, as well as drafting, culinary arts, agriculture, nutrition, child psychology, and numerous other related electives to define particular majors in the Home Economics field. Just a thought for your new ideas file.

[Lori Middleton]

I like Barbara's Idea of a Martha Stewart Store! I would definitely plan a vacation there just to visit and shop. I love Martha Stewart products. They are the uttmost in quality and I trust Martha's good name on anything. I think you should develop all of the seven big ideas and make them available in your store and especially on line for those of us who cannot frequent the store.
I LOVE MARTHA STEWART!!! I TIVO your show and watch it everyday!

[Kathryn Couch]

I would make a special trip to NYC just to go to a MS store.... all things Martha?? It's genius... I do think however that as time and success progress the store should grow to other big cities beginning with one on the west coast like San Francisco or LA.

[Evelyn]

Currently, the only way to research information, recipes and up-to-date information on food allergies is via the internet. There are no publications out there that deal with this growing food allergy issue. Our grandson was diagnosed with a life-threatening peanut allergy at age 2 (he is 5) and it has changed the lives of our entire family – we must check every label for peanut contents, cross contamination, etc. and we must always call the manufacturing to be certain that they have not changed their formula or manufacturing procedures. So, for example, we can’t just buy a bag of chocolate chips and make cookies, we must first read the label and call the manufacturer to be certain they are safe to use. Think about it…is the bread on the grocery store shelf safe, is the toothpaste safe, are the vitamins safe…the list goes on and on – as a food allergic family we must check every label to be certain it does not contain a life-threatening allergen! Most people do not understand the true complexity of food allergies – whether it be peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, eggs, milk and the list goes on and on. The Martha Stewart brand is well respected – what better way to get the word out there, offer food allergic people safe recipe choices, educate others about food allergies and keep us up-to-date on what is happening with food allergy research. Alexis, I applaud you for the idea of a food allergy magazine.

[Kathy]

Martha,
All are great ideas!
Kathy

[Carola Hanat]

An allergy freindly magazine is a valuable resource to a growing community. I have 2 young granddaughters and both have severe food allergies. The older one only has a serious dairy allergy. The younger one has all the 8 top allergies and 16 more. Some are air-born as well as touch and ingested. Even a kiss from grampa made us give our little one a dose of Benadryl because HE had eaten dinner with whey in a food!! I think the attention that you could give the issue of food allergies would be a wonderful thing. I am always looking for ways in which to make life as normal as possible for our family - especially at holiday time. Our home and her own home are the only "SAFE" environments for her. It is such a challenge to find recipes that work for her and also taste "normal" for the rest of us. For her safety, her home AND our home is free of peanuts/tree nuts, wheat, rye, oats, dairy, and eggs. We are extremely careful with using soy margarine (never around her). A magazine devoted to allergy free cooking AND baking would be wonderful as I know of only two magazines that cover such topics and they don't deal with ALL the 8 top allergins. Thank you for listening!

[Karen]

Martha,
As a parent with a child with Celiac disease, not a minute of my day is spent without thinking about how to plan for my daughters day. From morning til night, B,L,D, snacks, and birthday parties, special occasions,holidays, health and beauty aides, are constantly on my mind. Always looking for that quick, nutritious meal that will help with a family on the go- I'll never turn away a good, researched, form of recipes, meals, and ideas.. This would mean SO MUCH to the Celiac community and others afflicted with Gluten intolerance.
Many thanks! Karen

[Trish]

I don't have any food allergies but I'm changing my vote to Alexis' idea for a food allergy publication. I think everyone should be able to enjoy good food and I would trust Martha and company to come up with safe recipes so people can eat safely. They shouldn't have to call manufacturers to find out if recipes were changed and now might include something they are allergic to!

I think MSLO can bring about big changes with a magazine like that. Remember how difficult it used to be to find parchment paper in the stores or crème fraiche until Martha spoke? I think that's the kind of impact this magazine will also have on the industry; safer products will become more readily available and people will eventually be able to trust brands not to change their ingredients. JMO. Trish

[Melissa]

I too would like to see more info on Celiac Disease for us with severe food allergies. I have live w/this for more than 18+ yrs and it's so inportant to follow the diet. With that being said a wheat and gluten free magazine would be great!!! Thanks Martha for all your GREAT IDEAS! Melissa from Cincinnati, OH

[Claire Hudson]

I think having information available about Gluten free recipes is a great idea. I was diagnosed with Celiac almost 2 years ago. I would love to have a magazine that would provide easy to fix meals that my family could enjoy.

[Grace]

I miss the catalog so much that a store would be my favorite of the ideas. It would make finding quality things so much easier.

[Sabrina Youngwolfe]

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
I have Celiac Disease, and multiple food allergies. Wheat,milk,yeast,corn.Of course;gluten.

I am so excited about this idea for a food allergy section to Martha Stewart!! It is one that is long overdue!!

Alexis rules!!

[Joan Williams]

I would love to see a magazine devoted to cooking for food allergies. I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease in 1979. I've learned a lot about GF cooking since then but just finding the truthful ingredients label is frustrating. Joan

[Ryan Van Buren]

I think that have a new magazine for celiac disease would be amazing. I was diagnosed 4 years ago and I hold 2 three seminars a year on the disease and there is just not enough knowledge and awareness out there. I believe that the magazine would sell like crazy because there are so many people out there with celiac disease that are just looking to not be isolated from everyone anymore. It really is a big lifestyle change and to have a magazine that supports the change and helps would be beneficial to all. Thank you.

[Susan]

I vote for Alexis' mag.--or a mag. that also includes gluten-free recipes. That would be terrific! Thanks for being open to new ideas.

[Kristy Apperson]

Please create a food alergy mag!!! I am dating a wonderful man who has a son who has alergies to tree nuts! I have never had to deal with this and could always use a helping hand!

[Dawn]

Hi Martha,
I am thrilled about the idea of an allergy friendly magazine. As you may know allergies are on the rise and many parents are forced to be creative in making allergy friendly meals that taste great. I know if Martha and allergies were joined, we would have amazing choices for our families.
My daughter is 6 and anaphalaxic to nuts and peanuts. We are also a family with gluten and dairy intolerances. This magazine would sure bring the joy back into cooking.
Thank you,
Dawn

[Turkey Hill]

PLEASE! PLEASE! A STORE!!!
(It could address the gluten free, pets, etc. at the store!!)

[Debi Lutwack]

I was EXCITED to hear about a magazine (your Magazine) with gluten free ideas.Both my boys are Celiacs and I welcome ANYTHING that would improve their lifestyles..Thank you

[Morah]

I am currently a nursery school teacher here in New York, and we do a good amount of baking with the kids, and I just feel awful when we bake and one student Joey who is three can't eat any of it, because he is gluten free. If I could read up on articles from this new idea magazine that would be great. Why not test these recipes with my class they would love to meet you and bake yummy foods that joey could eat ;)

[laura]

Hi Martha,

A magazine focusing on food allergies would be INCREDIBLE. As the mother of a 6 year old son with anaphalyxis to peanuts, tree nuts and kiwi I am always looking for new interesting, FUN recipes to try. Also, it would be great if copies of these magazines could be sent to schools, pediatrician offices, etc. for other parents to read and get educated on the seriousness of the situation. I struggle daily to educate and inform the parents of my son's classmates on what can or cannot be brought into the classroom and why. This would shed national light on it! Thanks so much for considering this type of magazine!
Laura

[leti@napanet.net.]

The publication for food allergies would be just an incredible gift for us. We love food, however food has almost become the "enemy" our son (4 year old, CDO)is truly allergic to so very many foods. That group and school and family gatherings are just plain torture because of how much attention is given to delicious food. So to have a publication addressing alternatives and recipes and attention to a growing problem would just be a wish come true. Thank you for making it an option for your readers / fans to vote on. Can't wait to see the winning project!

[Monica in Colorado]

Martha et al;
My vote is for Alexis' Food Allergy magazine.
1. Ceilac disease is under-diagnosed in the US by a factor of 10. Most celiacs have been symptomatic and seeking medical assistance for 5 - 10 years before they are diagnosed. The awareness of the general population to ALL food sensitivities is important.
2. The cooking and home improvement channels are widely popular, but they rarely if ever address food sensitivities. These well-known chefs could do much to raise awareness. They could demonstrate how simple (and crucial) it can be to modify favorite recipes to include their food-allergy friends/ family. You Martha and Team, could be the Leaders in incorporating food sensitivity awareness into mainstream programming. (Picture Alton or Emeril following your lead and routinely commenting - "By the way, this recipe inherently has no gluten or tree-nuts!" or "This roux ideally is made with flour, but for the gluten-intolerant, you can easily substitute such-and-such flour")
3. The Family-recipe magazine is an excellent idea that could be incorporated into the Food-allergy Magazine. eg - take the 3-generation "Sunday Sauce" recipe, print the original recipe and family story, then add how to modify it to eliminate the food allergen.
4. The magazine could serve as a resource - not only for recipes, but for general information, coping skills, resource links. As a health care professional who has CD, and a firm believer in "Celiacs helping celiacs", a magazine like this, with well-referenced articles written for the general public intermingled with the recipes, could be a fun teaching tool as well as a resource.

So - GO FOR IT!

[Tenisha Benson]

I have celiac disease and I think this would be a great thing to do. We need more poeple to be aware of this problem with food products.
Tish

[Jan]

I pray the food allergie magazine comes to life!We have over 2,000 celiac's on myspace and many groups formed,I am trying to get the word out for my celiac friends to vote!We have no guide to help in this illness!They say 100,000 people have been diagnosed and 2 million people have it that do not know!Dr.Peter Green from Columbia University is the only hope many of us have,there are so many manisfistions,like cancer,Candida Albicans,Bone disease,many of my friends have had to have surgeries to remove parts of their digestive tracks and we need this magazine to guide us!We depend on each other,I have had this illness 17 years,I bought every book back then to teach myself and I know all celiac's would buy this magazine!There are many pet magazines out,I can't even beleive it would be listed as a choice against a medical need to know about Celiac disease,I help 2-3 new celiac's a week on myspace and the number will only grow as more doctors are educated about testing for celiac disease!I hope we can spread the word in a few short days and win a magazine that we and our families could buy,our families try to accomadate us for family gatherings,but,they also need this to understand how we have to eat!Thanks to Alexis,I think this would be the best choice,for it would help all understand and I could say,You want to cook for me,buy this magazine because the families really have no clue!Thanks!

[Sparky in Annapolis, MD]

I think we would all love a Martha Store! It just so happens that the brain-child behind the idea is an old friend from Ohio University. Martha, would you please let Barbara know that Sparky from Bromley Hall says, "A great big Bobcat Hello!" Thank you & I wish you all continued success! Spark in Annapolis

[Sparky in Annapolis, MD]

I think we would all love a Martha Store! It just so happens that the brain-child behind the idea is an old friend from Ohio University. Martha, would you please let Barbara know that Sparky from Bromley Hall says, "A great big Bobcat Hello!" Thank you & I wish you all continued success! Spark in Annapolis

[Renee]

Yes, yes...a food allergy publication!! My son has several severe food allergies and we struggle daily with things to make for him. I also had a hard time finding recipes when I was nursing him. There is a great need for good, easy recipes for those with food allergies and intolerances. What a great idea! If it wins, I'll be the first to sign up for it!

[Lisa]

An allergy magazine would not only be great for all those who suffer from Celiac, but it would be a GREAT help to the thousands of families with children on the Autism spectrum who follow a gluten free casein free diet.

[leslie]

Martha,
I don't like the idea of a store. I can buy your things in Macy's and K-mart. I really like the idea of the scrapbooking.
Leslie

[kim e.]

yes yes yes...we all who were so blessed to be different need this, i have only been with celiac since 3-2006 and i still at times feel so lost and just as confused as the day i got my diag. so for me, this would be great...love it ....kimmie e.

[Laurie]

The hysteria on the Yahoo Groups pages is wild. The "pet" people vs the "allergy" people. All they're talking about is the Martha poll and who's ahead. I belong to both sections, but (sorry pets), I have to urge you to print a Gluten-free mag. When the day comes that one of my dogs starts reading, then I'll vote for a Pet magazine. Until then, we're talking about a major LIFESTYLE change with eating. Try explaining to your newly-diagnosed 9yr-old son why he can never have 'good' pizza/bread/cookies/pasta again. I'd rather see safe food choices for humans, than more Paris Hilton dog coats and gourmet treats. Now, if the treats were GF.............

Laurie in Albany NY

[dustin white]

Dear Martha,
I am a huge fan! I would absolutely love to see a Martha Stewart store! We all need more Martha in our lives and that would help so much. You are such a "Good Thing!" More, more Martha! You could call it the More, More Martha Store.
Truly yours,
Dustin White, Doniphan, MO

[Jennifer S]

I run the Las Vegas Celiac Disease Support Group and our group has grown in the last 2 years from right around 50 members to over 400. It's to the point where almost daily I am approving a new member, someone who has just been diagnosed with Celiac Disease into our free group. A lot of folks with Celiac Disease also have food allergies. There have been many, many times that I've walked through a Whole Foods market and seen someone staring at the gluten free breads looking devestated. Most people, when diagnosed with Celiac Disease are told, usually directly by their physician, to not eat wheat and try to find a support group... That's it. If a magazine with the Martha Stewart name behind it was published it would raise awareness for individuals as well as within the medical community. This magazine could help raise the level of awareness for Celiac's and those with food allergies to a new high. For a child with Celiac Disease, a peanut allergy, egg allergy, wheat allergy, etc... they are often times excluded from social events and school events because the parents with kids who are blessed with no dietary restrictions don't have a clue where to start, and even with the information parents of these kids try to provide it's still quite an ordeal of ingredient label reading and 20 questions to the parent who tried to make a "safe" snack. If someone could pick up your magazine and just say "oh yeah it's (insert allergy/intollerance here) free, I got it from Martha Stewart's magazine it would make life easier for those with food allergies or intollerances. The thought of having a gluten free publication on this level (as there are only a very few so far)has sent local and national Gluten free support groups rallying for votes from everyone they know. We are all hoping,and praying that Alexis's idea takes the cake (allergen and gluten free cake of course)...

[JONI Toronto, Canada]

PLEASE MARTHA, we need some really
good gluten free recipes and if anyone can make gluten free taste really good it's you!!!!!!

[Jeanne]

It's nice that you are running this pole. I know we all have our causes that are important to us and would like to see a publication for it. I know pets are a popular theme these days, I have a house full myself but there are many magazines out there for pets already. My votes are for the one with food allergies and celiacs disease. I have a friend with it and it almost killed her before she was diagnosed. I hope if there is a tie or things between the two are close you will go with something a little different. There are already numerous magazines out there for all the other choices.

[Jay]

Definitely the food allergy magazine -

I have a CD rom with over 1,000,000 recipes in it. Do you know how many recipes come up when I did a search of "gluten free"?
Just FIVE recipes!!!

A food allergy magazine is greatly needed. Choice is everything, but people with food allergies do not have many choices. PLEASE do an allergy magazine!

[Charlotte from Charlotte, NC]

Kudos to Alexis and her idea for a magazine that highlights food allergies. It is such a necessity for those of us on a restrictive diet. It's not as easy as one thinks and Martha's support would make eating delicious again. We're also dog lovers, but we VOTE people's well-being FIRST. Let us know when the first issue debuts, we'll subscribe:)

[Claudia Fernandez]

A magazine devoted to food allergies would be an excellent idea. There are so many of us who can't eat even the most simplest foods and it's a real shame. There is even a link between food colorings, food additives, allergies and child behavior (ADD, ADHD). A magazine that would include recipes to individuals who suffer from severe food allergies is the best idea.

[Stephanie]

As a mom of a child with food allergies, I would love to see a magazine devoted to this. None of the other topics interest me in the least bit. Especially the pet idea-I just don't get that.

[Jeanne]

I think the idea of an interactive MSLO store is awesome. To have the opportunity to collaborate with others regarding baking, crafts and other "Martha" inspired endeavors is above and beyond the independent nature of purchasing in a Macy's or KMart. This might blossom into a "franchise opportunity" for a new breed of entrepreneur and a way to create a connected "brick and mortar" Martha network while leveraging technology...I could see multiple franchises linked together conducting workshops with subject matter experts all the while in their local Martha store. I would love to invest in such franchise opportunity.

[Cris]

The food allergy magazine would be a great idea! My son is almost 3 years old and he can only have goat's milk or soy milk, and he has other allergies, so, I would like to suggest not only recipes, but also sponsoring researches to find causes, and incentivate the use of organics... Let's go back to old times! And please Martha, can you sell your products in Brazil? You have so many fans here who would love to see your products on the shelves of supermarkets or department stores here... please...

[Ann Marie]

Another vote for the allergy friendly magazine. It is truly a needed publiation that would certainly rise awareness while helping so many families that struggle daily with this serious health concern. I know our family would be very thankful! What a great idea Alexis!

[Noela Australia]

I have a number of food allergies and would welcome different ideas for varying recipes. A regular magazine is a terrific idea. Hope it will be available in Australia.

[Leslie James]

Food allergy magazine. My whole family is intolerant of all things synthetic in our food. The reactions range from skin rashes and boils to severe behavioral reactions. Who knew that a preservative in a vitamin that is added to something you eat or drink could cause a reaction.

[Alison]

I must say like the many others before me that I am thrilled at the possibility of having a publication from Martha with allergy sensitive information and recipes. I was told at the age of 20 that I was allergic to wheat and eggs and have had to adapt most all of my favorite Martha recipes (and my lifestyle) to this. I would love to have something from this brand that I wouldn't have to alter! How exciting!

[Rhonda Hammons]

Because food allergies are such an issue with my daughter who has Autism, I wanted to share what I sent all my friends in an e-mail to encourage them to vote for the food allergy publication. My e-mail follows:

I'm sorry to bug you but, I need you to cast a vote online. It will only take a few seconds of your time. Martha Stewart is taking votes in a contest for the Martha Stewart Big Idea. One idea under consideration is a publication for people with food allergies like people with Celiac disease who eat gluten and casein free. My daughter, Kensington, eats gluten and casein free because of her Autism. (Gluten is the protein in many grains like wheat, barley and rye and casein is the protein in dairy. In children with Autism, these proteins act like an opiate causing the kids to "zone out", lack focus and language and, at other times, "act out" uncontrollably, even self-destructively. And, the gluten is extremely brutal on the digestive system of many children with Autism.) We have seen a tremendous improvement in Kensi's language after removing the dairy and recently began phasing out gluten from her diet. Since removing gluten, she is more calm, less violent and is able to focus for longer periods of time. But, it is an extremely difficult diet - especially for a child. Do you know how hard it is to make a dish without flour, milk, butter, cheese, or any product with the word "whey" in the ingredients taste good to a three year old!?! Almost impossible! That is a life without chocolate milk, cheese and chicken nuggets. Kids go into shock without their McDonald's chicken nuggets -- and "McDonald's" is one word Kensington says very well! Even worse, the diet means no ICE CREAM! I can't even use soy because the protein in soy mimics the protein in dairy for kids with Autism. And, this is Kensington's life (possibly forever but, at least for a while). You'd be amazed at how many foods this knocks out so, I need all the help I can get to make what I'm left with taste good. You can go to the following web site to read more about the finalists for Martha Stewart's contest and to vote:

http://blogs1.marthastewart.com/martha/?rsc=ts_Homepage_Homepage

Please vote for FOOD ALLERGY publication, not the pets publication which is in second place right now. I love my dog and cat just as much as everyone else loves theirs but, there are already pet publications on the market to meet their need. With 1 in 150 children being diagnosed with Autism, one every 20 minutes, we are under an epidemic and need Martha's help. There is no magazine-type publication that will help parents like me feed their special needs children -- and, believe me, we need the ease of a monthly or semi-monthly magazine to help us. We have a great many more things to struggle with than just the question of, "What am I going to cook for dinner tonight?".

Tell your family & friends to vote and ask them to tell others, too.

VOTE for FOOD ALLERGY publication - please!

[Shirley Fadden]

My son is allergic to artificial colors, perservatives and flavors.
THEY CAUSE HIM TO HAVE ADHD SYMPTOMS. We follow the Feingold diet and are also gluten free.
An allergy magazine would be a huge help.
Thanks!

[Amy]

My vote is for the allergy magazine!! I have always viewed myself as a fairly decent cook, but after my husband and infant daughter, and now my mom and sister-in-law have been diagnosed with severe food allergies, it is very frustrating to find something that everyone can eat and enjoy. I believe this would be a tremendous asset for my family.

[Charity Bowers]

I am voting for the food allergy idea - there are so many people out there that have allergies.
Thanks for thinking of this.

[Emily Tokarczyk]

I am so excited about the food allergen publication! This is a brilliant idea! There is an entire market out there yet to be explored, 1 out of 133 people alone have Celiac Disease. I am one of them, and a big fan of Martha! We need a quality publication!!! Thank you for recognizing us and many more!

[Jen Rizzo Sanctuary Arts]

Martha,
I am voting daily.. you know, you're a hip chick, I think you need a pink streak in your hair like I have. food coloring is good for more than just frosting!
Jen R
http://sanctuaryarts.blogspot.com/

[Lynn Shadle Gabriel]

What a blessing to the entire communittee of individuals who deal with food allergies. As a 3rd generation with 4th generation children with Celiac Disease we understand the lack of knowledge in the mainstreem. And many people who belong to 'gormet groups' can not and do not understand cooking with restriction. It's a 'win win' for Martha to show her real expertize, knowledge and versatility to open the door to many healthier more creative cooking options! We live in a society of convenience in which people have lost site of cooking what we call "real food". We also accomodate, corn free, yeast free, dairy free, egg free, soy free, people around us. There is a whole other world out there to explore in the kitchen and one that can save lives, even the lives of those who don't know they have an issue yet. Hands down...the food allergy/sensitivity (becuase many autoimmune diseases benefit from dietary restrictions)! The time is right!

[Fred Pharcus]

The high incidence of nutritional disease, especially gluten intollerance, would suggest that Alexis' idea has the most credibility.

[Norma]

I sincerely hope the food allergy idea will win your vote, Martha, as there is a tremendous need in this country not only for the recipes, but further information about this dramatic increase in autism and addhd being diagnosed in children. My son, who is now 41 was on ritalin until i read about Dr. Feingold's diet in Time magazine over 30 years ago. That one article inspired me to try the "clean" diet which was free of artificial ingredients. It was not a miracle "cure" but there was such improvement, that he never took ritalin again. A new magazine focusing on food allergies , sensitivities and the emphasis on using all natural ingredients in recipes could help many people.

[Jeanne Hurley]

I'm now 81 and have known I have celiac since I was 55. Lots of damage. I read last year that the pediatricians in Europe were now routinely testing babies and were surprised to find how many "cranky babies" had this problem. I need help figuring how to alter recipes so I voted for this idea. Like all Martha's stuff.

[bpfster]

I really like the ideal of this contest and all of the ideals were well thought out and were presented so that everyone could understand them easily. What talented people you have working for you.

[tori]

I'm sure I will not be looked at favorably, but based on some of the stats--

Experts estimate food allergy occurs in 6 to 8 percent of children 4 years of age or under, and in 4 percent of adults. [15, 20] Approximately 150 Americans, usually adolescents and young adults, die annually from food-induced anaphylaxis. [16]
Peanut or tree nut allergies affect approximately 0.6 percent and 0.4 percent of Americans, respectively, and cause the most severe food-induced allergic reactions. [17]

--I'm not sure there is a big enough base to justify a stand alone product. Perhaps a dedicated section in each of EF, MSL, and B&S and when you release your compilation cookbooks have a chapter dedicated to allergy sensitive cooking and baking.

My vote is for the store. Right now you have to deal with kmart, sears, macy's, etc. It would be great to take control of your retail brand, have people sell it who are thouroughly intimate with the product, and make sure that the representation of that brand/product is in keeping with your high standards (nothing like going into a retailer and seeing MS towels all unfolded and messy looking).

If a store is too complicated, please bring back martha by mail and expand the heck out of it :)

[Helen]

After a year of doctor's visits, where I was told I had 'some' autoimmune disease that could not be classified, I discovered I had serious allerigies to wheat gluten, cow's milk, beef, fructose and msg. I have modified most of my recipes to eliminate these foods - not an easy task. I would be your first subscriber to this new magazine. Perhaps a new section in Living might be a good way to start. Please help make our illness easier by providing good receipes. A big fan.

[Jenny]

The food allergy magazine would be wonderful. It would bring so much awareness. If someone like Martha becomes a voice for food allergies we will all have better recipes and there is hope that food manufacturers,restaurants, and laws will become more allergy friendly.

Last night I emailed every local allergy support group I could find across the United States and everywhere Martha is syndicated.

My son was diagnosed with a severe peanut allergy last October and this magazine would mean the world to us.

[sue leathers]

Dear Martha,

What a wonderful book you could write. A book filled with ideas and suggestions for people with food allergies. Making people aware of life threatening food allergies on your show makes life a little easier for for allergy sufferers. Many people just don't understand!!!

[Orissa]

There is not a lot of great information or ideas about how to entertain large groups of people while incorporating serious food allergies. A food allergy publication, along with great recipes and alternative non-food celebrations (especially for kids) would be a HUGE hit, not just for food-allergy families but for organizations (schools, churches, community organizations) and friends who want to be as inclusive as possible in their entertaining. I know a Martha Stewart publication would be MORE than just another bunch of recipes but provide a fresh perspective on all aspects of entertaining.

[Jenny]

And one more thing....when this magazine goes to print, I will buy a subscription for every member of my extended family, friends, teachers...everyone my son comes in contact with. I will encourage others to do the same.

[Jennifer]

My family has multiple food allergies and as a mom and a dietitian I struggle every day to find healthy, safe and good tasting food to feed my family. I love the idea of the live free publication. It would help my family and so many others.

[Julie]

Hi, I'm a mom of 3 kids that are sensative to artificiel ingredients that we find in so many food today. (We are on the Feingold program and are doing great)I would love to read a magazine that adress food allergies with every day recipes and easy way to deal with this new reality.

[Jeanne]

I am so happy to hear you are considering a cookbook for those with food allergies. Our school of around 600 children has around 12 kids in it with known food allergies. This impacts not only the families with allergic members- but the whole community! When there are birthday parties and other celebrations the mom's want to keep all of the kids safe and able to share the same treats. I have many phone calls for advice on what can be made so that my son can join in and eat with the others at parties. I know many friends who would be interested in the publication for that reason, even though their own children may not have an allergy! Thank you again and we will be anxiously awaiting this publication!!!!

[Kathy]

I do hope that the food allergy magazine comes to fruition. I have a grandson with allergies to nuts, wheat and dairy since he was born. He is now 2 and still having a difficult time. It would be nice to have some form of reference to go to with tested recipes and maybe tweeking slighty to suit your allergy needs. The segment with Divvies was wonderful! I passed it on to his mom for a great birthday cake recipe, with a few alterations. They can't use vegetable oil either.

[Emily]

I am a teen with celiac disease (gluten intolerance). I think a collection of allergy-free recipes would be great! I know a lot of other people who would like this idea.

[M.E. Nelson]

I am all for a food allergy magazine which features gluten free recipes. Four of the five people in our household have this disease which can be quite debilitating. People often ask why we arrive late to parties or don't participate in events. The answer could be laid out in this magazine. If my youngest even inhales glutenous flour (such at school baking exhibitions) she immediately starts to have a meltdown and breaks out in severe skin rashes. Also, our biggest fear is to be in a hospital setting. Hospitals could be a great place to market this magazine and would help staff recognize what foods are appropriate or not. Drugs as well need to be addressed as most doctors and hospital staff don't even know what excipients could trigger an anaphylactic response. This issue does effect everyone because food allergies and Celiac disease can cause everything from autoimmune diseases to cancer and the spread of infectious disease due to a compromised immune system. Another aside is that wouldn't it be wonderful if a certain percent of the proceeds from this magazine could go to Columbia Presbyterian Celiac Center for research and research programs for food allergies as well.

[Charlene Kelley]

I like the idea about the Martha Stewart store and I like the Martha Stewart Employee Cookbook.
Please keep up the work of excellence. On one store you had instances of using vulgar language. I hope that you do not continue in that mode. Speech should be beautiful just like the things which you create.

[Gloria]

I vote for the food allergy edition. I have relatives and co-workers that I would love to cook for, if only I knew what to prepare........
Great Idea!

[Katherine Meade]

Martha,

Just go to sleep for your 4 hours and know that, when you awaken, you will know what to do. It's so selfish for me to want a store when others are suffering from food allergies, which have increased, at least, in awareness, over the years.

[Lyza]

I was recently diagnosed with Celiac Disease and since, every time I've mentioned it, every other person has volunteered that either they or someone they know has it or is gluten intolerant. I don't know how to vote here, but mine is for an allergy magazine. Thanks.

[Fred Shapiro]

We need all the help we can get to prevent children from eating foods to which they are allergic. Do something.

[Carolyn]

Celiacs runs in our family. And when we learned about it we wasted so much money trying to cook! In fact, it is still trial and error as there is no good source to learn about recipes...that WORK.

We also have a ton of secondary allergies because this was undiagnosed for so many years.

Sorry to say, I have not been a fan Martha...but I will be if you run a useful Magazine to help out on Gluten Free/allergy free cooking.

[Amy Radomski]

I'm the mom of 4. My 6 year old daughter has multiple food allergies, some of which are life threatening. I personally know how helpful this type of publication would be, especially to families just learning about an allergy or multiple allergies.
I've been making many allergy free recipes for her for 5 years now and at first thought it would be impossible to figure this out, but we have done very well and she loves my recipes! I'm thrilled at all the new allergy-friendly products that have been popping up everywhere recently. A publication related to this growing problem would be a fantastic idea. We have some great recipes to share!
Amy Radomski
mom to 4 - including one with allergy to egg, peanut, tree-nut, white potato, wheat, legumes, watermelon, canteloupe & strawberry

[jane Doherty]

my daughter works long and lovingly to keep her family healthy while honoring the special food needs of her husband (luctose intolerant) and young son (gluten free diet)

[Bethie]

I wish I knew which one you voted for, Martha. :)
<3,
your fan

[Redness]

A magazine devoted to allergies/ gluten free etc is a must! Please make it an International publication! There are many gluten free'ers who are Matha devotee's but please don't frustrate us even more by using products available ONLY in the US! I'll be ordering a subscription ASAP!

[Ana]

I voted for the allergy, food intolerance, sensitivities and simmilar!!! Go ahead Martha, do for food lovers what food network has failed to do!!

Celiac, Gluten Free, Casein free, peanut allergy, egg allergy, no TBHQ, BHA, and BHT, no artificial nothing..... the list can go forever and so can the articles, ideas, tips and others.
Not only how to be a gourmet without all those things, but create awereness among those who do not suffer from any allergy or sensitivity!!! (Those who have not idea of waht celiac, gluten, casein, TBHQ and others mean, will also benefit from it)

[Deb W.]

I love the idea of a publication focusing on food sensitivities. My daughter and I have Celiac disease. Yes, it is a family affair. And previous comments here have done a great job to educate everyone.
Such a publication, especially with Martha behind it, could be life changing for millions. From sharing our best Gluten-Free recipes; many of us have learned to be great GF cooks, to raising awareness of those who might read an article and say: "Could this be me?"

Deb W.

[Kandy Maharas]

Great idea to empower your staff. More companies need to do this!

[Jeanette Wittman]

Hi Martha,
I really NEED an Allery magazine. My 18 month old son is allergic to Dairy, Eggs, Wheat, Soy, Oats and Peanuts. This magazine would be so helpful to me and I hope it would bring awareness to other people who don't understand food allergies. It would mean so much to us.

[Angela]

A magazine about food allergies with recipes would be WONDERFUL!!!

[Shelly]

Although my family doesn't have food allergies, we know several families who do. These friends of mine are so frustrated when we have backyard gatherings or dinner parties. They feel awkward asking to review the menu or feel bad about bringing their own food - but they must for the safety of their children. As a caring friend, I would be appreciative if you offered my girlfriends something that would result in tasty meals that we could ALL enjoy. On behalf of my young friend, Mallory, as well as her mother, thanks for your consideration!

Sincerely,
A Marthawannabe

PS - I would also be a subscriber so that I could actually invite them to dinner, do the cooking and have these friends arrive without toting their own "pic-nic" meal. What a novel idea!

[Robin]

I have an 18 month old son allergic to eggs and chicken. I am always modifying recipes to fit our family's needs. It would be great to have a publication that discussed issues related to the millions of food allergies out there. Thank you Alexis for your brilliant idea!

[Lizzie Snow]

Hello Martha and wonderful staff! I stayed up too late last night writing a long letter about some resources for your consideration to consider using on future television shows regardless of the outcome of the "great Idea" contest. Because I am only now learning how to use a computer and forge the adventure of the internet, I lost everything I wrote. I will try to sum up more quickly again my favorite gluten-free companies that you all maywish to investigate.
1.The Gluten-free Pantry; the very BEST mixes for cakes,brownies,cookies, and best of all, a gluten-free flour that can be substituted for traditional flour making for easy substitutions in recipes.
2.Trader Joe's; I first discovered them when I was an art student living in Los Angeles in1982-85 before I was diagnosed with celiac sprue. I'm delighted that they have expanded to around 2 or more hundred stores (NOT franchised) and now have several gluten-free items such as the MOST incredible G.F. granola!..(the first decent one I had tried since 1995.) This is not just a store; it's a warm and wonderful experience. Check out their website for more info.
3.Pamela's Products Inc.; the TASTIEST cookies Iv'e ever indulged in.This company is out of San Francisco.
4.Kinnickkinnick; frozen packaged delicious breads (especially Italian white; best done in microwave for 10 secs), doughnuts and other delicious goodies. This company is out of Canada.
5.Van's; So yummy Blueberry and other flavored as well as plain waffles; Gluten, dairy, egg-free, and vegan.
6.Amy's; Melt-in-your-mouth mac and cheese.(Frozen section.) This is better than any mac and cheese I had tasted before my celiac diagnosis.
7.Bionaturae; I have tried many different gluten-free pastas and none come out with the taste and texture so close to "real" pastas as these. (All types.) Unfortunately for people who cannot have soy, this DOES contain soy.

There are MANY different gluten-free options out there, but in my opinion, these are some of the BEST. Hope these resources may be helpful for future shows and/or publications...you have all opened a "pandora's box" by now, a dream come true for many of us. Thank you again Alexis, and I wish all of you many successes at Martha Stewart Living! Sincerely, Lizzie Snow
P>S> What happened to Marc Marrone? I used to enjoy him So much!

[Jody]

My web site is to help people with gluten sensitivity with many options

[Mike]

I have always loved the idea of you having your own stores. I don't think your stores would have to be all your products, they could be things you find useful and interesting and just something you would have in your own home or give as a gift.

However, the fact that you have products in so many stores, saves you from having to pay rents or buy real estate. But wow, would it be one of my favorite stores. :)

Love ya.

Oh, one more thing. Remember that guy on Martha Stewart Living who had the white feather tree and he covered it with those awesome vintage ornaments? I would love to see you reproduce similar looking vintage ornaments in old fashioned looking boxes.

And also...sorry....lol..too many ideas..

I noticed you use Restaurant plates on your shows, I am assuming it is Buffalo ware? I would like to see heavier dishes produced by you that are similar to that brand. Dishes and bowls with a heavier rim. Off white and maybe brown egg shell.

Ok that's all. Great job as always.

[Linda]

I have always loved to bake and have often been inspired by Martha. I am also the mother of one child with life threatening food allergies (dairy, egg, soy, wheat, peanut, tree nut...) and another child recently diagnosed with a serious condition that prevents her from eating many 'allergic' foods (Eosinophilic Esophagitis). Recently I was diagnosed with Celiac. It has very been difficult baking and cooking for for my two youngest children but now it is even more of a challenge to prepare foods for our family of six. You can imagine my excitement over the prospect of having a magazine devoted to families like ours! What a GREAT IDEA!!!

[Sue from Spruce Pine, NC]

I am so excited about a food allergy magazine. I hope this wins! My family has many allergies, some of the foods available are not the most appeasing. I know if Martha Stewart has a hand in it, it will be terrific! Thanks Martha for allowing your fans our input. Keep up the good work!

[Brenda Ike]

I love the idea of a Gluten Free magazine! I am 44 and was diagnosed with Celiac 2 years ago (after being very sick for over 5 years). Any tips and ideas on where to order great tasting Gluten Free products is charished to us who have Celiac. Our choices are very limited! I live in VA and I found a place in New York that has the best tasting GF bread (which is unheard of)... that is mailed fresh to you overnight. [www.everbodyeats.com] To have knowledge of more places like this would be great! I know more and more of us that have Celiac are not happy with choices to purchase our products locally so we are anxously searching the internet for new things to try :)
Brenda Ike

[Paula Nuss]

Good Morning,

I am an Albany area viewer and today, Monday, Feb. 4, the Pre-Super Bowl show is being aired. Your shows have been a day off for months. Although I can certainly handle this intellectually, emotionally I'd like to have this adjusted by Valentine's Day.