Hi Lee Ann --

Aloha from Kauai. This sounds so nice--especially the Diamond Jubilee tea.

But I can hardly wait to hear about the audition!!!

FYI, in 1999 I was living in L.A. and was desperately poor. I decided my only hope to crawl out from under the debt was to go on a game show and win lots of money ... So that's what I did!!!

I became a 3-time, undefeated champion on "Wheel of Fortune." I walked away with enough cash to pay off all my debts (with some left over) ... and I won a new car, a cruise to Mexico, and kitchen appliances that I sold.

Later that same week, the break in the music business that I'd worked and struggled for came through. It was a good week !!!

Hurry up and finish your report. We're all waiting!!!

Lee Ann, I'm enjoying your report! I hope you get to be a contestant!

I once called in to the Regis & Kathie Lee morning show and correctly answered the trivia question and won dinner for four at Mr Changs. That was my only claim to fame, lol.

Wow! Now I want the rest of this trip report and a life report from songdoc!

Songdoc,who knew! Good for you.

EP, I am anxious to read your report on the test. I took it many years ago in Atlanta. There were some SERIOUS people there, reading an atlas or Shakespeare cliff notes in the waiting area. You have to be quick as well as informed.

Good stuff.

Great story, Songdoc!

I didn't mean to hijack your thread. I wanna hear about YOUR audition!!! I'm impressed that you would even try.

Great Story. If I beleived in reincarnation I would want to come back as Vanna. What a friggin job.
____

Now that I am older, I play Delayed Jeopardy. I still get the right answers but it takes until the next day.

stw, I also called in once and won the trivia question on Regis and Kathie Lee. I was the second caller but the first one got it wrong. My prize was a Day of Beauty at the spa in the Helmsley Palace.

I've taken the Jeopardy test and the Wheel of Fortune test a few times in Atlantic City, but never got any further.

ElendiPickle, I'm anxious to hear about your audition!

Songdoc, wow, great story! Good for you!

My husband and I watch Jeopardy every night, it has become a ritual for us. I am so excited to read that Lee Ann got to try out in person!

A few yrs. ago I was at the Boston Sheraton and they were havi try outs for Teen Jeopardy there. Lots of parents and teens all over, and it was exciting talking to them in the elevators and lobby, they all had their stories of how they got to be there.

And when my son and I toured the SONY tudios in LA a few yrs ago, we got to get a sneak preview of the new Jeopadry set that they are using now. That was exciting! Lol, I know, I am pitiful, right?

Songdoc, love your story! Good for you! You must have ben elated. We watch Wheel too, but not as religiously as Jeopardy.

Now Lee Ann PLEASE tell us about the audition! I am on a road trip in Mexico visiting Mayan ruins and I am going to check back in here tonight to see if you've posted on the audition yet.

Yes, more please! And songdoc, what a great story.

Loving this report! How nice it must have been returning to some of your old haunts. Can't wait to read about the audition! I'll take next installment, please, for $500.

What is 'suspense'?

Songdoc, that's great! I was on Tic Tac Dough over 30 years ago, when I was a broke college student. I won a chunk of money and kitchen appliances; my parents got the kitchen stuff and I, being young and foolish, spent all the money.

OK, on to the audition!

Rodeway Inn's breakfast consisted of packaged pastries and toast, and I knew I needed some quality caffeine and protein before auditioning. Thanks to Yelp and a practice drive to get to the audition site, I had spotted a place on Inglewood Blvd. called Geo's. They make a fantastic iced Americano, which I enjoyed with...I don't remember the name, but basically it was scrambled eggs with a little Swiss cheese and mushrooms, and some very good bread.

I had plenty of time to kill before I had to be at the Doubletree, so I went ahead and drove down Sepulveda back into Westchester. I found a Trader Joe's and bought a couple of snacks for the plane ride, thinking I wouldn't be at the airport all that long and that I would skip eating there.

Eventually I made my way back to the Doubletree Hotel at Centinela and Sepulveda and headed upstairs to the interview area. We all had to fill out forms stating we had never been on Jeopardy, that we hadn't been on a game show in the last four or five years, stuff like that.

Another auditioner and I were sitting at the first table people saw as they came up the stairs. We were dressed nicely - you're supposed to dress as if you were going to be a contestant that day - so they all assumed we worked for the show and wanted us to check them in.

At 11:30, the contestant coordinators gathered us together, checked us off their list of auditioners, and took our pictures. One of the guys, who was in his late 20s, had never seen a Polaroid camera. I was tempted to fill him in, but competitiveness kicked in and I decided not to give him any information which might come in handy.

We entered a meeting room and sat at several tables. The coordinators introduced themselves and asked who had traveled the farthest to audition. One man came from Hawaii, and he won Jeopardy for the Wii.

Next we had to take a 50-question written test. We had about 15 seconds to answer each clue, and I thought I did really well. There were three or four questions I know I got wrong.

While the coordinators collected all our papers (the form we'd filled out, the test, our pictures, and a list of five "fun facts" about ourselves each of us had to supply), we had a short break, which most of us used to talk over the test and compare answers.

When we came back, we watched a short video on how the mock game would work, and the coordinators gave us some basic information on playing and answering. Then they started tossing out categories and clues and calling on us at random to see if we could speak up and answer quickly.

Finally it was time to play the mock game and do a short interview. I was one of the first three called on to play. This was good, because then I could finish being nervous and enjoy the rest of the morning.

I think I did all right on the mock game; I was able to hit my signal fairly quickly, which is really key to doing well on the show - you can know all the answers, but if you can't ring in first, it doesn't do much good.

We played for a few minutes, then did our interviews. They asked each of us to talk about ourselves for about a minute, then asked a few questions. I introduced myself, talked about what I do, where I live, my family, things like that. They asked me about one of my fun facts and what I would do with the money if I won. Fortunately, I have been studying at jboard.tv, so I was prepared for the question. Mr. Pickle and I have discussed doing some voluntourism in the future, so I talked about that.

It was fun watching everyone else play (most of us pulled our mock signaling devices, aka our ballpoint pens and played along silently) and interview.

We were finished around 1:30, so I changed my clothes for the flight home and decided to find some lunch. For nostalgia's sake, I went to Tito's Tacos and had one. It was decent, but I think my younger self liked them better. Maybe I'm just spoiled by the tasty New Mexican food I can make or buy here!

As I drove down to Costco to fill up the car, I made a detour through Mar Vista, where my mother-in-law lived, to see what the house looks like now - new paint but pretty much the same otherwise.

I was a little early dropping off the car, but I am the kind of traveler who likes to be early when I need to catch a flight, so that was OK.

After I went through security and called Mr. Pickle to let him know how the audition how gone, I noticed my flight was going to be delayed. I had to change planes in Phoenix, so I checked at the Southwest desk and they said they didn't think it would be a problem.

About 20 minutes later, they asked anyone who was flying to Albuquerque to come to the desk. Yup, we were all going to miss our connection in Phoenix after all. Providentially, there was a nonstop flight leaving later, and they had plenty of room for us. Unfortunately, that meant I had two more hours to kill at LAX than I had thought. There is no free Wi-fi, and my regular Kindle with 3G seems to be having issues with my email provider, so I couldn't get online as I had planned.

At this point, dinner and a margarita sounded really good. I called Mr. Pickle to let him know I would be late, found some food, and finally got an open seat at one of the lounges. Between the basketball and hockey games, all the restaurants and bars were pretty packed with spectators.

My substitute flight was also delayed by a few minutes, but it was pretty empty and I had a row to myself. Hurray!

At this point, I am in the contestant pool for 18 months. I really hope I make it on the show, but if not, I had a fantastic experience!

Lee Ann

Let us know if and when. I want to be cheering for a fellow Basque girl!

I'll share what I can!

Lee Ann

BRAVO!!!!

What a great report--and good for you for going for it! I hope you'll be hearing from them soon.

Also ... good for you for being prepared for the interview questions.

When I went on "Wheel ..." I not only prepared by doing word puzzles; studying the frequency of different letters; and watching tapes of the shows; I had rehearsed what I would say when they said, "Tell us about yourself ..." It certainly paid off!

Being energetic & enthusiastic was NOT a problem for me .

I like the title of your post, it's means you're thinking big.

Lee Ann, how inspiring! I feel like I am on pins and needles now, waiting to hear if you wil make it.

What does "being in the contestant pool" for 18 months mean? Can they call you any time in the next 18 m. and you have to fly out to L.A., and if so, will they pay for that trip? I hope so!

If you get back out to Santa Monica, and since I now know you like margartias, and I would presume Mexican food also, please go to Lula's on Main St. in Santa Monica! I travel to L.A. for work and pleasure, and I stay in Santa Monica and I ALWAYS make a point of going to Lula's. It is like being in a great restaurant/bar in Mexico. All the waiters and bartenders are from Mexico. They have a fantastic happy hr. w/many great apps at for $4, and cheap and VERY GOOD margaritas. and I have always had a lovely time at happy hr. in the bar, chatting w/the bartender who has been there forever who is from Puebla, etc.

OMG, their green corn tamales and chile rellenos at happy hr. are SO GOOD.

http://www.lulacocinamexicana.com/

I think you should start all your post in the form of a question for the next 18 months.

I had so much fun reading this report! It was better than watching Jeopardy tonight. Good luck in the pool. I've got my fingers crossed for you.

>>> I was tempted to fill him in, but competitiveness kicked in and I decided not to give him any information which might come in handy.
>>>>

Wow! You really have that killer instinct.

I hope you make it on to the show. Good luck and keep us posted.

This was a really fun trip report! When had to tell something about yourself you should have said you are a Fodorite! Like THAT would be impressive! I sure hope you get a chance to be on the show. I know I would wind up like Cliff Claven from Cheers if I ever had the chance to be on the show!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=botdmsQilnU

What a cool experience! Thanks for sharing it ElendilPickle. If you do get chosen (fingers crossed), you'll definitely have a lot of fodorites cheering you on!

Great report!! and If you get on be sure to let us know so we can tune in. We usually do watch, but don't record the ones we miss.

Best of luck!!

Good luck Lee Ann and thanks for the interesting trip report! This has to be one of the more unique reports....

Keep us posted!

Brand new here, but I couldn't resist chiming in. My daughter just competed on Teen Jeopardy! and had a fantastic experience. Sounds like we stayed in the same area as you did during her audition, maybe not quite as trendy? We were at the Ayres Hotel and found it a great value, with a good breakfast and a wonderful staff. I wish we'd known about some of the fun restaurants.
Best wishes for Jeopardy! I have a feeling we'll be seeing you on the show.

Songdoc, I'm somewhat of an introvert, but I was so happy to be there that it was easy to be friendly and enthusiastic. I was exhausted after I got home, though.

Emd3, being in the pool means they can call me anytime in the next 18 months to be on the show. I have to pay for airfare, etc., but if I win they would pay for any return trips.

SeeHag, Clavin's Rule is in the glossary at jboard.Tv.

Evelyn, how exciting! I'll watch for your daughter.

Lee Ann

Darn, you missed her. She was on the air in May, but they taped in LA in February and did the second week in DC in April. Luckily, none of the kids pulled a Clavin!

Be sure to keep us updated if (no, when) you get on. It's really impressive that you got to the actual audition, and it sounds like you did really well once you were there.

Lol!!

Great report, Lee Ann! I really enjoyed learning about all that goes into this show. Keep us posted!

Great piece, and good luck! I'm confused, though--did they already tell you that you passed the audition? How are you sure you're in the pool?

Evelyn, my husband and I watched every episode of Teen Jeopardy in May. What was your daughter's first name? I am sure we will remember her. How fun for her, and you!

What a fun report!!! Good for you

Keep us posted on if you get called back. It sounds to me like you did well!

Evelyn, I'll look it up in the J! Archive. I'm sorry I missed seeing it!

PlaidJello, out of the 100,000 or so who take the online test every year, about 4000 are picked at random to audition. Those people stay in the contestant pool for 18 months, and about 400 of them are actually chosen to tape the show.

Lee Ann

How interesting and exciting! I'd love to see you on TV!

Lee Ann and emd3, my daughter is Rose; she came in second. It was a great experience for all of us.

I wish I'd discovered this board before we went to LA the first time; it would have been very helpful. Maybe I'll try out ...

So would I, Dayenu.

Lee Ann

OMG, Rose S.! Yes, of course we remember her, and the 36K! She is so cute and engrossing to watch, her whole face lights up when she smiles (and she has a GREAT smile), which was a lot on the show. My husband and I rooted for her every night. She was our #1 favorite in the Teen Challenge!

emd3 -- thank you so much for the kind words! We're still a bit in shock over the whole experience.

I'm thinking we'll all be rooting for Lee Ann before too long.

Topping this thread to say I was selected to compete on the show. If you tune in January 8th, you can see how I did.

Lee Ann

That's awesome! Congrats!!

So glad I saw this. Good luck If you already did the show, then good luck to your past self (aka the teen novel "When You Reach Me").

I hope you made/make a bundle and get to spend it on a trip!

LeeAnn, that is AWESOME!!!!!! SO excited for you, Jeopardy came through.

So your show is being shown Jan. 8? We watch every night while eating dinner so we will see you!

WooHoo, we will be watching and mega-rooting for you here in Northern VA!!

Eileen

Lee Ann, I can't wait to see your episodes ~ of course, more than one! I survived the audition in Boston last month... got some right, some wrong and had quite a good time! Thanks for your tips, too. You'll have quite the nationwide audience on Jan. 8th!

She must have won big, I haven't run into her in Costco lately

Woo Woo! A celebrity!!

I'm putting a Jan.8 reminder on my calendar right now . . .

How exciting! I can't wait to see it!!!!

Congrats and good luck! We'll all have to log in here on the 8th and comment on the show (though I know it airs at different times in different markets).

I took the test for Millionaire back when Regis still hosted. I didn't make it to the next level of interviews, but it was fun!

It's on my calendar--so exciting!

LOL Debit! I don't actually get paid until April.

5alive, I went to LA in October to tape.

tekwriter, I was wondering how your audition went! I really hope they call you.

Lee Ann

Lee Ann- that is a definite SPOILER!! So you won at least one night, if you get paid in April!

I have told 4 people today that I know someone who is going to be on Jeopardy, lol!

Well...not really, emd3. Everyone who gets on the show gets something - the champion gets the $$ they won, second place gets $2000, and third place gets $1000.

Saying any more than that about my results would be a spoiler.

Lee Ann

Oh, we thought only the winner gets the dough. Now we know, we have the inside scoop!

Once you get picked to be on, do they put you up in the hotel and pay your travel expenses, and what else do they cover?

I am very excited Lee Ann!!! That is just wonderful! Can not wait to see you!

On my calendar too! I told my family and they all want to watch too. I think you'll have a lot of housefuls cheering you on.

Btw sorry if the reference is obscure. In When You Reach Me, the main character's mother is trying to win $25,000 Pyramid and time as a theme figures prominently.

emd3, once you're selected, you pay your own expenses. They give a discount at a Doubletree near the studio, which is nice because the shuttle takes you to the taping. If you are a returning champion, they pay your airfare if you have to come back.

I will write a completely new trip report after the show airs.

Lee Ann

soon, now!

A month from tomorrow!

Lee Ann

This is exciting! Too late to say good luck but I hope you did well.

This is wonderful! Congrats!

We know someone famous!

Kay

Wishing you all the categories that you know a lot about!

We should set up a twitter thingy so we can post while we are watching the show (on commercials, Jeopardy goes so fast you have to watch it btwn commercials). I am not a real twitter-phile -- can that be done?

emd3: Unfortunately, the show won't be on at the same time for everyone across the nation. In Denver, it's on at 6:00 pm MT. Different markets show it at different times. Nice idea, though. We'll just come here and post after we've seen it (no peeking in the later time zones!)

You could do that - maybe if everyone uses some spoiler space. Or you could just wait until January 9th, when I post the trip report.

Lee Ann

How will we know it is you? Be sure to wear a red long stem rose over your ear! Oh wait, when they announce Mrs. ElendilPickle, of course we'll know it's you!!

Best of luck.

It is Jan. 8th right?

This is very exciting!!

LOL nanabee!

You know my first name, since I sign every post, and I'm the only Lee Ann on the show January 8th.

Lee Ann

How very exciting! I have it on my calendar, but please post again and again so none of us miss it!!! Congrats!

I had a flag to remind to me to check in - congratulations! Our family will be watching on January 8 (and 9?).

I am having an elective medical procedure that requires being in the hospital overnight. Dr. wanted to schedule it for Jan. 8. Otherwise need to wait til Feb. I told him wait til Feb., I want to be at home th enight of the 8th to watch Jeopardy. He looked at me like I was nuts, lol.

LOL emd3! Would someone PLEASE do a new reminder thread on the 8th??!!

emd3...that is dedication!

TDudette, I will post something here and probably in the Lounge as well.

Lee Ann

So excited and have it calendared!

I set my DVR.

Congrats for being on Jeopardy! I'll set the DVD player. I used to really be into the game show scene. Back in the early 80s, I was on both Match Game and the Pyramid. I also went out for Wheel of Fortune and the dating Game (not a real game show). I was called back for the Dating Game, but turned it down because back then one could only do 3 game shows in one's lifetime. So, I decided to try to find a third one where I could possibly again win a lot of money.

I was terrible in the test for Wheel of Fortune though. I remember it well. The auditions were held in the old, white building on Yucca across from the Capital Record building. We were stuffed in a room and it was pretty dark and dreary. I just couldn't concentrate.

The audition that went great was for the Pyramid which was held in a building that used to be where the Kodak Center is, but has been renamed. It's where the Academy Awards are held. It's right on Hollywood Blvd, near Highland. I remember in that audition that we were 40 people and were all given a knowledge test and were only 4 who passed it. Then 4 dwindled to 2. Then the 2 of us left had to go in and actually play the game in front of some of the producers. Our names were then put on a list. I was called back pretty quickly to be on the show.

I remember the audition for the Match Game being in Hollywood, in the same building where CNN is now, I think it was. That audition was also fun. We all had to get up, in front of everyone, and tell something about ourselves and say something funny. I was called back, in a couple of months or so , to actually be on the show, but it was about a week after I had returned from vacationing in Guadalajara and returned home with a bad case of Montezuma's Revenge. I remember, while driving on the way to the studio, praying that the stomach would hold up. LOL! But, I made it through all of the tapings and when my winner's check arrived, I was laughing all the way to the bank. When I went into my bank to deposit the check, the teller's eyes got huge and she said, "Where the heck did you get all of this money?"

It was weird being recognized on the street and in stores around L.A. and people coming up to me and chatting. But, those were the fun 80s here in L.A.

A friend was also on two game shows, back then, and won enough money to buy his gorgeous house in the hills of Eagle Rock. Those were the good old days. Smiles.

Happy Travels!

Typo Correction: DVR, not DVD. LOL! Happy Travels!

So did I! I work that night and will watch when I get home. How fun.

great story Guenmai! I have tried out twice for The Wheel,
passed the written questions but must have failed Clapping 101 and Fake Enthusiasm for Fellow Contestants 102 as I was never called.
Am looking forward to watching Eleni's night (s?) on Jan. 8.