TOP ADS OF 2013!

They were inspirational and moving, entertaining and funny, check out the top TV ads of 2013.  (The Clydesdale and his trainer was my personal favorite.  Remember the Budweiser ad that first appeared in the Super Bowl.) Click here for the photo montage...
 

FIREWORKS PHOTOS - NEXT BEST TO THE REAL THING!

Trying to photograph fireworks displays on New Years is more than a challenge.  But not for these photographers.  Get ready for the Skyrockers by checking out these photos...

NEW MOVIES!!

It's time for the return of "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty." (The first film version starred Danny Kaye)  Ben Stiller bringing daydreaming to a new height (and then some) Rated PG.

Sylvester Stallone and Robert De Niro remember their boxing roles in other films with "Grudge Match."  Rated PG 13.

and their are more...click here for all the details.

HOLIDAY LIGHTING AROUND THE WORLD!!

Even the Kremlin gets involved.  Small places and large places with Christmas lights galore.  Click here for the photos...

IT'S TIME FOR CHRISTMAS MOVIE TRIVIA!

Who was the cigar chomping taxi driver in Scrooged? (staring Bill Murray)
What famous actor was to play George Bailey in "It's A Wonderful Life?" (The role filled by Jimmy Stewart.) 

Click here for the answers and other Christmas movie trivia...

JOHNNY MATHIS IS "SENDING YOU A LITTLE CHRISTMAS!"

Johnny Mathis is known for his Christmas albums and his fans have wasted no time in making his new album, "Sending You A Little Christmas" a big seller.  Click here for his official website and the holiday favorites on his latest album...

THE LOCO-MOTION WAS A NUMBER 1 HIT FOR BOTH LITTLE EVA AND GRAND FUNK!

THE BEATLES IN THE NEWS!

Just Paul and Ringo remain as The Beatles are set to receive the Grammys Lifetime Achievement Award.  Kris Kristofferson, the Isley Brothers, and Kraftwerk will also be honored at the ceremony held the night before the Grammys are broadcast. (Jan.25th) 

Beatles fans are looking forward to "The Night That Changed America," scheduled to be broadcast on Feb.9th.  The CBS special will look back at the groups first appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show.

Also, for the first time, the U.S.A. versions of the Beatles albums will all be released on CD in 2014.  Jan.21st is the date.

IT'S OFFICIAL, KISS IS FINALLY BEING INDUCTED IN THE ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME!

Gene Simmons and KISS finally get their long overdue recognition. (or at least that's what KISS fans are saying)  KISS is one of the new inductees into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.  They will be honored along with Hall and Oates, Peter Gabriel, Linda Ronstadt,  Cat Stevens, and Nirvana.  See the story by clicking here...

CHRISTMAS PARADES TO DELIGHT (AND TO FEAR)

In addition to the Christmas and holiday parades in the Coulee Region, here are a few worldwide to note.  Leading the way for Disney fans, the Magic Kingdom shines forth.  But how about the Winterfest lighted boat parade in Florida and the Christmas parade in Hollywood.  For those who know about St.Nicholas and his demonic campanion, (for St.Nick's day), Austria stages a mighty scary day.  Check them out here...

FACEBOOK TRIVIA ANSWER: MELANIE SANG "BRAND NEW KEY"

AMERICAN IDOL WITHOUT THE DRAMA

Ryan Seacrest and Harry Connick Jr. both promise a return to normal on the new American Idol set to begin broadcasting on Jan. 15th and 16th.  Connick says things were "a little bit off" last year with the battles between Mariah Carey and Nicki Minaj.  This year will be a "return to emphasis on the contestants.  Here is the story...

THE BEATLES "LOST CONCERT"

The Beatles "Lost Concert" remains lost to most fans.  A current lawsuit involving Sony/ ATV over the planned release of the footage of a 1964 Washington concert has kept it from making it to movie theatres.  The documentary sounds interesting as you not only see the complete 35 minute concert but also interviews with Chuck Berry, Stephen Tyler, and others.  Here's the complete story (lawsuit)...

HOBBIT FANS UNITE -NEW MOVIES!!

The 2nd in the three part Hobbit film series hits the big screen this weekend!! 
 "The Hobbit:  The Desolation of Smaug," with Bilbo Baggins and the Wizard Gandalf, rated PG13.  Expect a mighty box office showing for this sequel.

Also opening:  "Saving Mr.Banks," with Tom Hanks as Walt Disney and the story of "Mary Poppins"

And more by clicking here...

THE GOLDEN GLOBE NOMINATIONS FOR 2014

One of the big awards shows coming soon in 2014 is the Golden Globe Awards, unique for their emphasis on both film and television. 

Movies receiving nominations for top picture:  Twelve Years A Slave, Gravity, Captain Phillips, Philomena, and Rush.

Top TV nominees include in Drama, Downton Abbey and Breaking Bad (among others,) and , in Comedy, The Big Bang Theory and Modern Family.(among others)

See the complete list of nominees by clicking here...

TOP HOLIDAY KARAOKE SONGS!

Heineken did a survey to see which holiday songs lead the way for karaoke singers.  The winner, "Jingle Bell Rock." followed by "Winter Wonderland."  Heineken doesn't give a breakdown on just what age groups like what, but 30% overall said "Jingle Bell Rock" was their favorite.  Click here for the story...

KENNEDY CENTER HONORS!

Billy Joel, Carlos Santana, and Herbie Hancock were among those receiving Kennedy Center Honors recently. (The edited program will be broadcast on Dec. 29th) Here is the story and a connection to video highlights....

THE SUPER BOWL AND NO TAILGATING?

It will be the first Super Bowl to be played outdoors in a cold weather venue.  What does that mean?  It's the first Super Bowl where "snow and cold" could be a factor. The 48th(XLVIII) Super Bowl will be played at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Feb.2nd.  And, there will be no tailgating!!  People can have food and drink in their vehicle but they can't fire up the grill or toss out a lounge chair. What is this world coming to? (someone asked, not me) Get the complete rundown on Super Bowl plans here...

HOLIDAY FILMS TRIVIA!

What is George Bailey's dream in "It's A Wonderful Life?"  "What's Clark Griswold's bonus in "Christmas Vacation?"  "What character doesn't Tom Hanks play in "Polar Express?"  Find out the answers to these and other holiday movie questions by clicking here...

GRAMMY HALL OF FAME - NEW SONGS AND ALBUMS

The recordings have to be at least 25 years old to qualify and some familiar selections did make the Grammy Hall of Fame.  The Rolling Stones, "Honky Tonk Women," Sam Cooke's "Wonderful World," albums by George Harrison, Chicago, Creedence Clearwater Revival were among those chosen.  See the complete list by clicking here...

NEW ALBUM FROM THE GROUP BOSTON!

Boston fans looking for that classic guitar sound from the band, will not be disappointed by their first studio album in 11 years.  (the first since the death of lead singer Brad Delp in 2007).  Here is a review of the new album called "Life, Love, & Hope."

BILLY JOEL BECOMES RESIDENT PERFORMER!

Billy Joel has decided to stay close to home and give his fans a chance to see him perform every month in 2014 at Madison Square Garden in New York.  His first show there was in 1978 and he has had many sellouts at The Garden.  Here's the complete story....

NEW ELVIS EXHIBIT IN ROCK AND ROLL HALL OF FAME!

Fans visiting the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland will be checking out a new exhibit featuring Elvis Presley.  Many artifacts are on lone from Graceland including the white suit he wore while performing "If I Can Dream" on NBC in 1968.  Find out more by clicking here...http://rockhall.com/blog/post/new-elvis-presley-exhibition-at-rock-hall/

BARBARA WALTERS PICKS HER FINAL "TEN MOST FASCINATING!"

Barbara Walters is retiring soon but not before selecting a final "Ten Most Fascinating People of 2013."  As always, some on the list are fascinating and others just headline hogging.  Pope Francis, Prince George, and Miley Cyrus on the same list? (Barbara always has needed help defining fascinating.)  Click here for the list...

HUNGER GAMES AND FROZEN LEAD THE WAY!!

"Hunger Games: Catching Fire" set a new Thanksgiving weekend record at the box office while Disney's new animated film, "Frozen" wasn't far behind. (Though every other movie was)  Find out more by clicking here...

OH, THOSE TURKEY LEFTOVERS

Here's a creative way to use up some of those turkey leftovers.  Try this sandwich on for style...Or more like the turkey soup shown here...

CHRISTMAS IN ROCKEFELLER CENTER

This coming Wednesday evening, December 4th, NBC will bring out the stars(whether it's cloudy or not) for the lighting of the "world's most famous Christmas tree."  Mariah Carey, Kelly Clarkson, Jewell, and other celebrities will be perfoming current hits and holiday classics.  Find out more here...

ADD A SIDE DISH FOR THANKSGIVING!!

In need of something special as a side for the Thanksgiving repast.  Here are some suggestions including "Brandied Cranberry Sweet Potato Stuffing," (say that fast) "Roasted Squash With Butter and Sage," "Pumpkin and Cauliflower Casserole," and "Spiced Cranberry Sauce with Orange." (All from Delish) Click here for the recipes...(and 50 more)

AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS

Taylor Swift led the way with the fan voted "Artist of The Year" award.  Justin Timberlake, Rihanna, Katy Perry, and, of course, Miley Cyrus all played a part in the nationally televised event.  Find out more if you care by clicking here...

THE NIGHT THAT CHANGED AMERICA -GRAMMY SALUTE!

If you were watching, you were part of an epic audience.  It was Feb.9th, 1964 and it seemed that nearly everyone was watching as The Beatles performed on The Ed Sullivan Show for the first time.  That moment will be remembered on its 50th Anniversary, Feb. 9th, 2014.  A two hour special on CBS will feature many tribute performances as well as archival footage from the show.  Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr, the two remaining Beatles will take part.  Here is the complete story...

NEW MOVIES!!

"The Hunger Games" fans will be turning out to see the sequel, "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire," starring, once again, Jennifer Lawrence.  Rated PG13.

Of course, sci-fi fans can also check out, "Thor: The Dark World," with Chris Hemsworth. Rated PG13.

Then there is the new comedy starring Vince Vaughn, "The Delivery Man." Rated PG13.  Yes, he is the father of 533 children!!

Check out other recent films and trailers by clicking here...

CURSIVE WRITING A THING OF THE PAST?

Is cursive writing (or long hand) finished.  Not quite say some states who are determined to keep it being taught in the classroom. ( Overall, some 45 states have adopted "Common Core" standards which eliminate cursive writing )  You know the reason for it, there just isn't a real need in the computer world for handwriting, the keyboard being the means to communicate.  Learn more about the issue here...

AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS!

They'll be broadcast live Nov.24th.  See how many names you recognize.(even if you are not familiar with their music)  Rihanna, Taylor Swift, Justin Timberlake, Blake Shelton, Miranda Lambert, all get plenty of attention as nominees, and not just for their music.(as you know)  Click here for the "infographic" of nominees.

DANCING WITH THE STARS CONTROVERSY!!

He's down but he's not out.  Comedian Bill Engvall and partner, Emma Slater, have been at the bottom of the pack for Dancing With The Stars last three elimination rounds but have survived each time.  Apparently, the voters at home like Bill and the judges have been not been able to boot him from the show.  Read about the controversy by clicking here...

WILL AN ABBA REUNION TAKE PLACE FOR THEIR 40TH?

In a recent interview, Agnetha Faltskog  (the blond) hinted at a possible ABBA reunion for the 40th Anniversary of their Eurovision Song contest success. (with the song Waterloo)  Read the complete story here...

JUST WHAT SOMEONE NEEDS? BACON DEODORANT!

(I know I didn't ask for it.) Just in time for the holidays, or maybe just in time, J&D Foods markets "bacon scented deodorant." " It will attract beautiful strangers, dogs, bears, and swamp alligators."  Click here for all the important facts...

PAUL SIMON AND STING TO TOUR (TOGETHER IN FACT)

Paul Simon and Sting will tour together starting in February.  Why such an unlikely combo you ask?  In June, Paul Simon joined Sting on stage at a charity event to perform Sting's "Fields of Gold" and Simon & Garfunkel's "The Boxer."  Having been friends for many years, they decided to develop a tour together.  Concert dates include Feb.23rd at the Xcel Energy Center in St.Paul and Feb.24th at the United Center in Chicago.  Chicago tickets go on sale Nov.12th and St.Paul tickets Nov.18th.  See other tour dates by clicking here...

JOB INTERVIEW QUESTIONS THAT ARE ILLEGAL!

There are some questions that might seem appropriate to ask during a job interview but are actually illegal.  For example, "Are you married?" "Do you have children?" "Do you have outstanding debt?"  Click here to find learn more...

THE OLD FARMERS ALMANAC SAYS...

It's November! What does the Old Farmers Almanac say about the weather just ahead.  (sunny and mild for Thanksgiving, clear and cold for Christmas.) Find out the weekly predictions for November and December by clicking here...

EMPIRE STATE BUILDING'S HALLOWEEN LIGHT SHOW!

In case you missed it, (and you did,) click here for the Empire State Buidling's Halloween light show.
(I was expecting a Jack O Lantern face or something)

WHAT'S IN A NAME? ALOT SOMETIMES WHEN NAMING AUTOMOBILES!

So, let's see, the Volkswagen Jetta is named for the Atlantic jet stream, the Passat is German for tradewind, and the Golf is named for what?  Find out more about famous car names by clicking here...

HALLOWEEN HISTORY (OR TURN THE SPOOKS LOOSE)

It's became"Halloween"as a contraction of "All Hallows Eve." All Hallows Eve has proceeded "All Saints Day"  since the 8oo's, but the tradition of spirits and ghosts on the loose on October 31st goes back much further thanks to the Celts. (Yes, you of Irish and Scottish heritage) It marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of "the darker half of the year."  Find out more about Halloween history here...

WHERE ARE THESE 80"S STARS?

What are the stars of 80's movies like "The Breakfast Club," "Pretty in Pink," and "Top Gun" doing now?  For some, you'll have the answer, but for others it will be surprise!!  Click here for Andrew McCarthy, Emillio Estevez, Lea Thompson, and others...

JOHN FOGERTY ON TOUR

John Fogerty continues to rock out at age 68 and his recent concert in Tampa proves it.  Fogerty promised to be doing complete albums from the CCR library and he did all of Cosmo's Factory in this performance.  Read the review by clicking here...

DUCK DYNASTY HOLIDAY ALBUM!!

I know you can hardly wait to get your copy.  The "Duck Dynasty" family is releasing a Christmas album called "Duck The Halls: A Robertson Family Christmas."  Find out more by clicking here....

PACKERS OVER VIKINGS SUNDAY NIGHT!!

The outcome was not a surprise for many as the Vikings have a serious quarterback problem and the Packers certainly don't.  Also, the Packer running game was a definite factor and not Adrian Peterson. The final score at the Metrodome last night was 44-31 with some late Viking scoring making it look closer.  Here is the recap...

THE WHO PLAN A 50TH ANNIVESARY TOUR!

The year 2015 will mark the 50th Anniversary of the rock group, The Who.  Pete Townshend says that should be the "last big one" for the band.  The band will perform at places and in countries where they haven't played before.  Here is the complete story...

FAMOUS FRANKENSTEINS!

With Halloween near, it's time to test your Frankenstein knowledge.  Follow the photos to guess who and in what movie these Frankensteins did their thing.  (yes, Lon Cheney Jr. and Peter Boyle make an appearance.)  Click here...

MEMORABLE MOMENTS IN WORLD SERIES PLAY!

With the World Series beginning, let's see how many of these moments you remember or have heard of.  They are all part of World Series history.  From Babe Ruth's famous "called shot" to Don Larson's perfect game to Mr. October, Reggie Jackson's 3 home runs in one game, check out these World Series highlights...

WHICH BEER GOES BEST WITH HALLOWEEN CANDY?

It's a question only a Wisconsin (or Midwest) beer connoisseur would appreciate.  Does a strong stout beer go best with a Reese's Peanut Butter Cup?  Or maybe an English malt with candy corn?  The suggestions abound by clicking her

e...

HALLOWEEN CANDY!!!

If you're not giving it out on Halloween, you may still enjoy the selection.  Here is a photo collection of Halloween treats...