Grammy-award winning singer, songwriter, producer and multi-platinum selling artist Bruno Mars will sit down for an exclusive interview and to premiere his new music video “It Will Rain,” the first single from THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN – PART 1 soundtrack that features a never-before-seen clip from the film, on MTV on Wednesday, October 26th at 7:54pm ET / 6:54pm CT during “MTV First: Bruno Mars.”
After personally introducing the new music video and answering a few fan questions, Bruno will stay on for an additional interview with MTV News’ Sway Calloway on MTV.com. In addition, fans will be treated to a live broadcast from MTV News’ studio, celebrating the upcoming release of THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN – PART 1 soundtrack with special guests, including TWILIGHT soundtrack Music Supervisor Alexandra Patsavas, super fans and more.
Fans can get in on the action immediately by submitting video or text questions beginning today via MTV.com or via Twitter (using @MTVNews / #AskBruno)
Kenny Wormald calls in to chat w Van McNeil about starring the in the Footloose movie in theaters THIS FRIDAY, October 14th. Plus, what people are saying about the remake and has he talked to Kevin Bacon about it? All that and lots, lots more!
Writer/Director Craig Brewer ("Hustle & Flow," "Black Snake Moan") delivers a new take of the beloved 1984 classic film, "Footloose." Ren MacCormack (played by newcomer Kenny Wormald) is transplanted from Boston to the small southern town of Bomont where he experiences a heavy dose of culture shock. A few years prior, the community was rocked by a tragic accident that killed five teenagers after a night out and Bomont’s local councilmen and the beloved Reverend Shaw Moore (Dennis Quaid) responded by implementing ordinances that prohibit loud music and dancing. Not one to bow to the status quo, Ren challenges the ban, revitalizing the town and falling in love with the minister’s troubled daughter Ariel (Julianne Hough) in the process. http://footloosemovie.com
Our friend Bruno Mars will be featured on the new, "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1." Soundtrack which is available starting November 8th.
Bruno Mars is featured with his song, "It Will Rain" which you can listen to below. Other artists on the soundtrack include, The Joy Formidable, Christina Perri and many others.
The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1, is in theaters November 18th.
The SportsRadio 1250 WSSP-AM crew was at Miller Park on Friday, September 24th, 2011. The night our Milwukee Brewers clinched the National League Central Division Championship!
Check out the celebration!
Milwaukee Brewers Rally at Miller Lite Oasis at Summerfest. Thursday, September 29th - Gates at 3:30pm. Event starts at 4pm. FREE to attend. But limited capacity is available at Miller Lite Oasis. Event is on a first come, first serve basis.
The entire Brewers team, players and coaches, will make an appearance from approximately 5:15 pm to 5:45 pm. Parking is available for $5 at Summerfest Parking gates G, H, M, and P. More at http://brewers.com
The highly anticipated fourth installment of The Twilight Saga, directed by Academy Award® winner Bill Condon, THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN â PART 1 reveals the mysteries of this romantic epic that has entranced millions.
In The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1, Bella (Kristen Stewart) and Edward (Robert Pattinson), plus those they love, must deal with the chain of consequences brought on by a marriage, honeymoon, and the tumultuous birth of a child⦠which brings an unforeseen and shocking development for Jacob Black (Taylor Lautner).
With more of the romance, passion, intrigue and action that made Twilight, The Twilight Saga: New Moon and The Twilight Saga: Eclipse worldwide blockbusters, The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1, based on Stephenie Meyerâs bestselling book series, begins the conclusion of the tale of vampire love, boundless friendship, acceptance, and finding your true self.
I had a great time hanging and chatting w Colbie Caillat (and her new puppy Mahti) before her show at The Pabst Theater.
In this interview Colbie talks about her new record in stores and available for download called, "All Of You", she touches on a few new TV shows you can see her in this fall, how did she end up singing for the President Of The United States and lots, lots more!
To celebrate the life and music of Amy Winehouse, the â2011 MTV Video Music Awardsâ will pay special tribute to the late British songstress with music legend, Tony Bennett. Winehouse and her hero, Bennett, recently recorded the duet, âBody and Soul,â for his upcoming Duets II album, out September 20th. Marking his first appearance on the VMA stage since 1993, Mr. Bennett, who won one Album of the Year, at the 1995 Grammy Awards for the CD âMTV Unplugged: Tony Bennett,â will introduce the tribute, which includes unveiling footage from their recording session together. âBody and Soulâ was Winehouseâs final session and took place this past March at Abbey Road Studios in London. The single and video will be released by Columbia Records September 14th, Amyâs Birthday, in support of the Amy Winehouse Foundation established by the late singerâs family to help a number of charities connected with children and young people.
âIt was a thrill to record with Amy Winehouse and when you listen to the recording of âBody and Soul,â it is a testament to her artistic genius and her brilliance as one of the most honest musicians I have ever known,â said Mr. Bennett.
Winehouse, known for the depth and power of her soulful voice will be remembered by fans and peers for her awe inspiring talent and classic hits such as âRehab,â âBack to Black,â âMe & Mr. Jones,â and âYou Know I'm No Good.â
Amyâs father, Mitch Winehouse said, âOur family is honored that the VMAâs are giving Amy this wonderful tribute. We know that Amyâs performance of Rehab at the MTV Movie Awards played an important part in Amyâs worldwide success.â
2011 VMA performers include Lady Gaga, Adele, Bruno Mars, Lil Wayne, Chris Brown, Pitbull and Young The Giant. Jonah Hill, Rick Ross, Seth Rogen, Selena Gomez, Kim Kardashian, Odd Future, Nicki Minaj, Taylor Lautner, Drake, Joe Jonas, Jared Leto, and JB Smoove from HBOâs âCurb Your Enthusiasm are confirmed to present. Additionally, Jessie J was just announced as VMA house artist. The â2011 MTV Video Music Awardsâ will air live from Nokia Theater L.A. Live in Los Angeles on Sunday, August 28, 2011 at 9PM (Live ET/Tape delayed PT).
CHECK OUT THE NOMINEES for The 2011 MTV Video Music Awards.
Wisconsin State Fair Park Officials are pleased to announce that the 160th Wisconsin State Fair, presented by U.S. Cellular, ended on a high note this evening at 10pm.
Hundreds of thousands of loyal Fairgoers came out to celebrate during the Fairâs annual 11-day run and take advantage of family-friendly pricing, diverse entertainment and fair traditions. Mother Nature was âfairlyâ kind this year, offering a few hot, humid days and a couple days of light rain, but mostly beautiful blue skies and light breezes, providing Fairgoers the opportunity to enjoy all that the Fair has to offer.
âIt was a tremendous Fair despite the tough start,â stated Chief Executive Officer of Wisconsin State Fair Park Rick Frenette. âWe are appreciative of the collaboration and efforts of the State Patrol, West Allis Police Department, and Milwaukee Police Department to assure our Fairgoers that the Fair is a safe, fun experience for our guests. We look forward to continuing to work with them for the 2012 Wisconsin State Fair and beyond.â
âThe attendance this year shows, that more than ever our Fairgoers are passionate about the Wisconsin State Fair, and they showed amazing support for us this year,â stated Patrice Harris, communications manager. âWe are thrilled that each year they come out to enjoy the new things we have to offer and the traditions of the Fair â the agriculture, food, music, attractions, contests and activities.â
In addition to a four percent increase in attendance, initial revenue reports reflect a significant increase of 5.6%.
2011 ATTENDANCE 911,231
ADMISSION PROMOTIONS
AUGUST 4 HUNGER TASK FORCE DAY 45,133
149,500 pounds of food donated to Hunger Task Force
AUGUST 5 DISCOVERWISCONSIN.COM DAY 5,145
AUGUST 8 SPRECHER BREWING CO. $6 BEFORE 6PM 10,047
AUGUST 9 KOHLâS FAMILY VALUE DAY 27,559 Adults
13,073 Youth
AUGUST 11 U.S.CELLULAR $5 after 5pm 4,214
AUGUST 14 MILITARY & VETERANS RECOGNITION DAY
COURTESY OF BUDWEISER 2,162
FOOD STATISTICS
Wisconsin Bakers Association Original Cream Puffs 355,478
Artic Glacier Pounds of Ice 550,425
Real Wisconsin Cheese Grill Grilled Cheese Sandwiches 52,143
The 2012 Wisconsin State Fair, presented by U.S. Cellular, will take place August 2 â 12, 2012. The Wisconsin State Fair offers an original experience to all that attend and is a phenomenal value with 30 FREE entertainment stages, thousands of animals, endless family activities, events, contests, vendors and culinary delights. For the most up-to-date information, please visit WiStateFair.com
I'm just getting up this fine Tuesday morning only to find out that our good friend Gavin DeGraw was assulted yesterday and hit by a taxi in New York City.
He was admitted to the hospital with a broken nose, cuts on his face and is in stable condition.
Gavin told me in an interview at the Summerfest Block Party that he was releasing his 4th studio album, "Sweeter" in September 2011 and is currently on the road w Train and Maroon 5. Get well soon Gavin!
The cast of Jersey Boys stopped by The Mix Studios for a chat about the show. Now on stage at the Marcus Center For The Performing Arts thru August 14th. Get more info and tickets at http://www.marcuscenter.org/
"TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE!â raves the New York Post for JERSEY BOYS, the 2006 Tony® Award-winning Best Musical about Rock and Roll Hall of Famers The Four Seasons: Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi.
This is the story of how four blue-collar kids became one of the greatest successes in pop music history. They wrote their own songs, invented their own sounds and sold 175 million records worldwide â all before they were 30! JERSEY BOYS, winner of the 2006 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Show Album and most recently, the 2009 Olivier Award for Best New Musical, features their hit songs Sherry, Big Girls Donât Cry, Rag Doll, Oh What a Night and Canât Take My Eyes Off You.
Get to know Rock The Green artist Michelle Branch. I had the chance to chat w her backstage at Summerfest.
Michelle Branch is excited to return to Milwaukee to Rock The Green, September 18th at Veterans Park on the beautiful Milwaukee Lakefront.
What is Rock The Green? Rock the Green is the Midwestâs Premier Near-Zero Waste Music Festival. Our mission is to Entertain, Engage and Educate our audience year-round by combining a world-class concert with an interactive sustainability experience.
Rock the Green will entertain its audience by presenting a world-class concert showcasing a variety of nationally-renowned artists.
Rock the Green strives to put Milwaukeeâ and Wisconsinâ on the map as a leader in sustainable initiatives. It will educate its audience by offering an interactive sustainability experiences and empowering guests with actionable steps to live a more environmentally balanced life.
Tyrese Gibson joins Van McNeil to chat about Transformers Dark Of The Moon. Plus what happened on set w/ Shia Labeouf and what's next for Tyrese? Find out in this interview.
Listen to Van McNeil (Noon-4pm)Â all week (6/27-7/1) for your cue to call in and win Summerfest tickets and backstage passes to hang w Adam Levine and the guys from Maroon 5! (414.799.1099)
Van McNeil (Noon-4pm) has your tickets to The Mix Sneak Peek of Zookeeper starring Kevin James. Listen for you cue to call next week! (414.799.1099)
A group of zoo animals decide to break their code of silence in order to help their lovable zookeeper (Kevin James) find love -- without opting to leave his current job for something more illustrious. woman.
Van McNeil (Noon-4pm) has your tickets to The Mix Sneak Peek of Larry Crowne. Listen for you cue to call all week! (414.799.1099)
Oscar® winners Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts reunite for a dramatic comedy about how the hard knocks from todayâs recession inspire one everyday guy to undergo a personal reinvention: Larry Crowne.
Until he was downsized, affable, amiable Larry Crowne (Hanks) was a superstar team leader at the big-box company where heâs worked since his time in the Navy. Underwater on his mortgage and unclear on what to do with his suddenly free days, Larry heads to his local college to start over. There he becomes part of a colorful community of outcasts, also-rans and the overlooked all trying to find a better future for themselvesâ¦often moving around town in a herd of scooters. In his public-speaking class, Larry develops an unexpected crush on his teacher Mercedes Tainot (Roberts), who has lost as much passion for teaching as she has for her husband.
The simple guy who has every reason to think his life has stalled will come to learn an unexpected lesson: when you think everything worth having has passed you by, you just might discover your reason to live.
Watertown, Wisconsin's very own Kevin Stangler joins me to chat about his role in the touring production of Fiddler On The Roof now on stage at Marcus Center for the Perfoming Arts. Get tickets at http://marcuscenter.org
Gavin DeGraw joins Van McNeil to chat about his forthcoming new album, "Sweeter" in stores and avail for download Aug 9th, what fans can expect at the June 25th Summerfest Block Party Show and lots, lots more!
Based on an incredible real-life experience, the film is a funny, touching story of friendship and survival starring Seth Rogen, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Anna Kendrick, Bryce Dallas Howard and Anjelica Huston. Adam (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) is an average guy in his mid-20s when heâs diagnosed with a rare form of terminal cancer. His family and friends â from girl-crazy best buddy Kyle (Seth Rogen), to insecure girlfriend Rachael (Bryce Dallas Howard) and overbearing but loving mom (Anjelica Huston) â attempt to help him through this process in the best way they know howâ¦with some bizarre and funny results. Counseled by a young, supportive psychiatrist (Anna Kendrick) through the months that follow, with his best friend Kyle a constant presence, Adam learns to embrace what is important. Equally humorous and poignant, the film is a dramedy about a second chance at a new beginning.
50/50 stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Seth Rogen, Bryce Dallas Howard, Anna Kendrick ans is in theaters this September. Find out more at http://www.50-50themovie.com
Grammy Award winner Jason Mraz joins Van McNeil for a chat about his July 2nd Summerfest show, openers Guster and what's up with a new record? Jason answers all that and then some. CLICK ON THE PLAYER or CLICK HERE TO LISTEN:
Jason Mraz will headline the Marcus Amphitheater on Saturday, July 2 at 6:30PM along with special guest, Guster.
Hailed as one of today’s most gifted pop troubadours, singer-songwriter Jason Mraz broke into the music scene with his debut album, Waiting for My Rocket to Come, with hit single “The Remedy (I Won’t Worry)”. Influenced by reggae, pop, folk, jazz and hip hop, his next two studio albums, Mr. A-Z and We Sing. We Dance. We Steal Things., also found major success, racking up an impressive six Grammy nominations and multi-platinum certifications around the world. He won two Grammy’s in 2010 for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance and Best Pop Collaboration with Vocals. As a songwriter, Mraz has been feted with the Songwriters Hall of Fame’s esteemed “Hal David Starlight Award,” presented to gifted songwriters who are making a significant impact in the music industry via their original songs.
He maintains a very close relationship with his fan base and is a critically acclaimed live performer having made his musical journey from coffee shops to arenas and stadiums around the world. Mraz’s hit list is growing and contains the singles “You and I Both”, “Wordplay”, “Geek in the Pink”, “I’m Yours” and “Lucky” (featuring Colbie Caillat). “I’m Yours” was a momentous #1 smash in many formats around the world, earning ASCAP’s 2010 “Song of the Year” award while also setting the record for the longest-running song in the 51-year history of Billboard’s Hot 100.
Beyond music, Jason Mraz is a photographer, activist, surfer, yogi, student and teacher. Jason and Jason Mraz Foundation’s main focus is within arenas of human trafficking and human equality, environment preservation, arts and education, and recovery and assistance. He was named the 2010 SIMA Humanitarian of the Year and is an active supporter of several charities including VH1 Save The Music, Life Rolls On, Free The Children, Musicares, True Colors Fund, SPARC, his hometown arts program and many more.
Joining Mraz are American alternative rockers, Guster, a band known for their live performances and humorous stage banter. With six studio albums and hit singles including “Fa Fa”, “Barrel of a Gun”, and “Satellite” the band’s long standing career has not slowed down. Guster’s dedicated fan base has spread rapidly over the past decade and fans know when they see the band perform live they’re in for a unique performance that has a style all its own.
Tickets go on sale this Saturday, June 4 at 11:00AM and include Summerfest admission. All reserved seats are $37 at the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office. Tickets can be purchased at the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office, Ticketmaster Ticket Centers, Walmart stores, online at Ticketmaster.com and by phone at 1.800.745.3000 (live Ticketmaster Agent) or 1.866.448.7849 (“Ticketmaster Express” automated phone line). Patrons may also utilize “ticketfast” at Ticketmaster.com to print bar coded concert tickets from home. Convenience fees may be added to all purchases.
Due to the construction project on the south end of the grounds, the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office has been temporarily relocated to the intersection of Harbor Drive and Chicago Avenue at the Mid-Gate of the festival grounds. The building on the north side of the Mid-Gate will serve as the Marcus Amphitheater Box Office.
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 – July 3 and July 5 – 10, from Noon until Midnight. Summerfest will be closed Monday. The World’s Largest Music Festival and Milwaukee’s cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industry’s hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites. The Marcus Amphitheater and 10 additional stages, along with a diverse selection of food and beverage vendors, marketplaces and interactive exhibits, are set against the Lake Michigan and downtown backdrops, creating a festival experience like no other. Patrons can also enjoy Miller Lite, the Official Beer of Summerfest. For more details visit Summerfest.com
Listen to Van McNeil (12p-4p) to win tickets to see Born To Be Wild in stunning IMAX 3D. (414.799.1099)
Born to be Wild 3D is an inspired story of love, dedication and the remarkable bond between humans and animals. This film documents orphaned orangutans and elephants and the extraordinary people who rescue and raise themâsaving endangered species one life at a time. Stunningly captured in IMAX 3D, Born to be Wild 3D is a heartwarming adventure transporting moviegoers into the lush rainforests of Borneo with world-renowned primatologist Dr. Birute Galdikas, and across the rugged Kenyan savannah with celebrated elephant authority Dame Daphne Sheldrick, as they and their team rescue, rehabilitate and return these incredible animals back to the wild. Narrated by Academy-Award® winner Morgan Freeman, Born to be Wild 3D is directed by David Lickley and written and produced by Drew Fellman. This Warner Bros. film is produced by IMAX Filmed Entertainment and distributed by IMAX Corporation and Warner Bros. Pictures and is exclusively in IMAX theatres. http://www.imax.com/borntobewild/
CLEVELAND MAKES SOME LIFE-CHANGING DISCOVERIES on AN ALL-NEW âTHE CLEVELAND SHOWâ SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, ON FOX.
Grammy and Emmy Award Winner Justin Timberlake Makes Special Guest Voice Appearance.
Episode Also Features Original Music by Timberlake.
Cleveland makes two huge discoveries in his personal life. First, he finds out that Donna never legally divorced her ex-husband, so she and Cleveland are not legally married. Then, he discovers that his best friend Terry is gay and has been dating a guy named Paul (guest voice Timberlake). In light of these new developments, Cleveland, Donna, Terry and Paul decide to go to Vermont and have a double wedding ceremony. Meanwhile, Cleveland Jr. tries to help Rallo break a nasty habit in the all-new âTerry Unmarriedâ episode of THE CLEVELAND SHOW airing Sunday, Feb. 20 (8:30 CT) on FOX.
Co-Creator Mike Henry talks about working w Justin Timberlake, Cleveland & Rallo join the conversation and more!
TRAFFIC LIGHT is a relationship comedy that reveals how friendships and romances both enhance and complicate the lives of the men and women in them.
TRAFFIC LIGHT's Nelson Franklin joins Van for a chat about the show, his role in Scott Pilgrim vs. The World and surprises some fans for Valentine's Day.
Traffic Light | Tuesdays | 8:30pm | FOX. Get a video sneak peek of Traffic Light below.
Click on the player to listen to the interview.
Old Friends and Lots of Laughs
Do you have one of those friends you don't get to see all the time, but when you do it's like no time at all has passed? That's how I feel about my old friend Mandi. I've known her since 8th grade when we played club volleyball together.
We stayed in touch through high school, but in a time when Facebook didn't exist, we lost touch during college, but reconnected when we were both living in Green Bay. Now, we're both back in Milwaukee and a night out with her is always a good time - as you can tell from this picture!
This photo is her and I at the Smyth Preview Party at the Iron Horse Hotel and I can't even remember what we were laughing about!
Old Friends and Lots of Laughs
Do you have one of those friends you don't get to see all the time, but when you do it's like no time at all has passed? That's how I feel about my old friend Mandi. I've known her since 8th grade when we played club volleyball together.
We stayed in touch through high school, but in a time when Facebook didn't exist, we lost touch during college, but reconnected when we were both living in Green Bay. Now, we're both back in Milwaukee and a night out with her is always a good time - as you can tell from this picture!
This photo is her and I at the Smyth Preview Party at the Iron Horse Hotel and I can't even remember what we were laughing about!
Can't We All Just Get Along? Bon Jovi Edition.
After two weeks of vacation and getting back into the groove of things, I find out about this fued in the Bon Jovi camp.
Whenever I hear anything about Bon Jovi, I always remember the great time I had with the guys back in 2002. A ton of fun, lots of laughs and of course the Rock & Roll!
As far as the fued is concered, I guess Jon Bon Jovi and Richie Sambora are communicating via "the media".
Richie abruptly quit the band/tour for personal reasons a few months ago and has said publicly that Jon should "hire Edge from U2."
Jon fired back at Richie saying, "He can return when he is ready to die every night on stage."
I say, can't we all just get along and have a good time... just like we did in 2002? Come on guys! Let's work it out before the Chicago date.
Click here to LISTEN to Bon Jovi After 5 Live 2002.
When is it ok...
Over the weekend I went to a party and Miley Cyrus was there with her mom promoting her new album. I've seen Miley a million times on T.V. or in magazines but meeting her in person made me think...is it ever ok to tell someone they are too skinny? Miley is very nice but my first reaction was "Wow she is way to skinny". Of course I kept my mouth shut but everyone at the party was whispering the same thing. I hope she has success with her new album and comes to Wisconsin soon for cheese and beer! lol!
My recent Hollywood murder mystery adventure! Part 2
It was a beautiful sunny Saturday in Los Angeles, California. I awake from Friday night's TNT catered/planned festivites, where a criminal got shot atop the famous Beverly Wilshire Hotel, tried to figure out who hired the murderer and got ready to interteview the stars of TNT's Monday Night shows Major Crimes and King & Maxwell.
PICTURE: Van McNeil w Jon Tenny / Sean King (King & Maxwell) Mondays, 9pm, TNT.
Jon Tenny / Sean King talks about Milwaukee, his new show King & Maxwell and what it's all about...
So, I finish my interviews and head back to my room to get ready for a cast party at this awesome club called Boulevard 3.
Everything was to the nines and everyone was having a good time! Food, drinks, dancing, the Hollywood stars... and then, THIS happened!
The murder mystery continues...
It almost felt like we were on these TNT shows! Trying to put the peices together, collecting evidence, interviewing suspects, all to figure out whodunnit!
Get your, "crime solving" ON! Monday Nights starting at 8pm on TNT w Major Crimes AND King & Maxwell OR get caught up online at www.TNTDrama.com
Remembering NOLA!
I don't know if you have ever been to Mardi Gras (February/March) in New Orleans, Lousiana but if you get the chance GO!
I got to experience Mardi Gras before Hurricane Katrina hit in 2006 and lemme tell you, it was an experience! From all the parades, colorful costumes, beads and coconuts to the French Quarter and Burbon Street craziness there is NOTHING quite like Mardi Gras!
So, if you've never been or just want to scratch that itch again, our friends at Six Flags Great America will be doing it Mardi Gras style all weekend and I have your FREE tickets to go!
Of course, you can enjoy ALL that Six Flags has to offer, like Batman The Ride Backwards, X-Fight and the NEW Ignite Grand Finale but the streets of Orleans Place will be transformed THIS WEEKEND so you can enjoy the sights, sounds and tastes of Bourbon Street including live music, parades and fireworks, as well as authentic food and drinks from New Orleans.
Want more information? Click here.
Wanna win tickets to go? Listen between Noon-4p ALL WEEK for your chance to win!
Good luck and 414.799.1099
BACON Debate - Best way to cook...
In honor of Father's Day, I thought I would finally settle the age old question...
What is the best/proper way to cook bacon?
To settle such a debate I called the experts! Renowned food writer/author/critic (New York Times), Peter Kaminsky joined me to talk about his new book he wrote alongside Marie Rama called, "Bacon Nation".
In the book you will find 125 different recipies, from breakfest to dessert, that include BACON!!
So... What IS the best/proper way to cook bacon? Find out what Peter says below and don't forget to enjoy some bacon this weekend! :)
More about Bacon Nation...click here.
Managing Picnic Beetles
Eat up and clean up to keep those little black beetles from enjoying your harvest.
Known as picnic beetles, sap beetles, or little black bugs, these scavengers can be found in overripe strawberries and raspberries, cracks in ripe tomatoes, ears of corn and more.
Since they are attracted to overripe and damaged fruit, regular harvesting and sanitation will help keep these pests at bay. Avoid pesticides that require a waiting period before you can continue to harvest as this delays picking and will result in even more overripe fruit that attracts more beetles into your garden.
Some gardeners find trapping effective. You may want to try this popular recipe: Mix 1 cup water, 1 cup dark corn syrup, one cake of yeast, and a spoonful of vinegar. Place the mixture in a container outside the garden. Use it to attract the beetles away from the garden, trap and drown them.
A bit more information: Any fermenting plant juices will also work. Some gardeners report success using ripe bananas and melon to attract and trap these insects.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
Eat All Your Vegetables Day â June 17th
Load up your plate with fresh-from-the garden produce as you celebrate Eat All Your Vegetables Day on June 17th.
Use this day to inspire new additions to your vegetable garden while encouraging reluctant veggie eaters to try something new. Once they try some fresh vegetables they may be willing to make them a regular part of their diet. And, if you get them to grow their own, they are even more likely to partake.
Once you're inspired, look for extra space to add more vegetables to the landscape. Start by calculating the number of days left in your growing season. Simply count from the anticipated planting date to the average date of the first fall frost in your area. Check plant tags and seed packets for the number of days needed from planting until harvest. Make a list of these vegetables.
Then look for vacant spaces in flowerbeds, mixed borders and containers. And train vines crops up decorative trellises and fences.
A bit more information: Here are a few short season crops you may want to consider. Plant seeds and be ready to harvest radishes, leaf lettuce, spinach and chard in 40 days. Beets, bush snap beans, cucumbers and kohlrabi are ready to harvest in 50 to 60 days. Carrots, Chinese cabbage, and turnips take about 10 days longer.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
My recent Hollywood murder mystery adventure!
Every now and then, "work" takes me out to the West Coast but THIS trip was a little different. Lemme explain...
This adventure begins at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, (Pretty Woman, Bevery Hills Cop) where I was put up for the weekend for a TNT event! If you're are asking what TNT is, you probably already know, it's the TV channel... the one that is so familiar with drama, it's in their slogan... TNT - We Know Drama.
Anyway, me and my buddy check in, go up to our respective rooms and get ready for a gatering on the roof of the hotel later that night. Little did we know we would witness a "shootout" between police and a hired killer! It was up to everyone in attendence to figure out who at the party was responsible, by the end of the weekend.
There were clues... LOTS of clues!
Text messages, twitter accounts, pictures and more!
Plus a whole cast of characters from detectives, forensic lab technicinans, suspects and even a special appearance from the Los Angeles Department of Corner office!
If you're a murder myster junkie, even if you're not, this is kind of stuff you will encounter if you're watching TNT on Monday Nights! And let me be the first to warn you, IT SUCKS YOU RIGHT IN!
Let's begin with, "Major Crimes" who's first season I missed despite rave reviews from critics and fans. This show gives you all the tools to figure out WHO killed, in this first episode it's the BIG TIME film-producers wife. It's a great show that will leave you wanting more! BTW you can catch up on Season One by visiting TNTDrama.com or take a sneak peek of Season Two, which premeieres tonight at 8pm on TNT..click here.
PICTURE: Van McNeil w Major Crimes cast members, L, Tony Dension (Lt. Andy Flynn), C, Mary McDonnell (Capt. Sharon Raydor), R, G.W. Bailey (Lt. Provenza).
TO BE CONTINUED...STAY TUNED FOR MORE!
Visit a Farmerâs Market and Plan Your Garden
Farmers Markets are on the rise as more and more of us are looking for locally grown fresh produce. You may be surprised to find one or more popping up near your home.
Get the most out of your visit with a little advance planning.
Check out the internet for a list of farmer's markets in your area. Confirm the dates and hours of operation. Many include a list of vendors with links to their website and the week's featured produce.
Gather those cloth bags used when buying groceries. It makes managing all the produce easier and you will reduce the number of plastic bags headed to recycling or the garbage.
Take cash and lots of small bills. This makes it easier for the farmer and speeds up shopping. And you'll have more time to visit every single booth.
Look for and try new and different vegetables. It will help you plan future additions to your edible garden.
A bit more information: Eat first so you buy less or go hungry and plan on staying for a meal or snack. Many markets serve coffee and pastries or tasty meals. And take the whole family to enjoy this shopping experience. Many have kids' activities and music for all to enjoy.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
Weed Your Garden Day â June 13th
Break out the cupcakes and balloons and get ready to celebrate Weed Your Garden Day on June 13th.
The thrill of the party may wane a bit when family and friends discover your true motivation. But, adding a festive spirit to garden tasks can make it more fun and you're more likely to make them happen.
Try a round robin of eating and weeding with friends. It is a great way to work in some social time and help each other tackle the weeds in the garden.
Barter a bit of weeding for a home cooked meal, pie, photography or other hobby or skill you prefer over weeding.
Hire some help – it's ok to admit the weeds won this round. Once under control, it will be easier for you to keep up with weeding and other garden care.
Once the garden is weeded, mulch it to reduce future weed infestations. Shredded leaves and evergreen needles are perfect for flowerbeds and vegetable gardens.
A bit more information: Woodchips and shredded bark make nice mulch around trees, shrubs and pathways. Do not put fabric weed barrier beneath these and other organic mulch. As the mulch decomposes it provides a great environment for weed seeds to sprout and grow through.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
Nudge Your Bougainvillea Into Bloom
Nudge your potted bougainvillea into bloom with proper growing conditions and proper care.
Grow these blooming beauties in full sun. You'll get the best flower display during the shorter days of early spring and early fall. Plus the cooler night temperatures of 60 degrees or cooler will also promote bloom.
Keep your bougainvillea potbound to further encourage bloom. Repotting too soon results in lots of leaves and stems and delays flowering. During the growing season, allow the plants to dry slightly before watering again.
Use a low nitrogen slow release fertilizer with phosphorous, like Milorganite, to meet most of your plants season-long needs. Or apply a soluble flowering plant fertilizer to moist soil once a month.
Prune away any unwanted growth throughout the summer. And occasionally pinch out the growing tips to encourage more compact growth. Wear gloves and long sleeves to minimize direct contact with the thorns.
A bit more information: Start new plants from 4 to 6 inch long cuttings. Stick the cut end into a moist well-drained potting mix or mix of peatmoss and perlite. Roots should appear in 4 to 6 weeks. Repot if needed in a slightly larger container.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
Heaven on Earth!
Sun, snow, rivers, streams and...the mountains! That's what I saw while I was vacationing over the weekend in Denver and Vail, Colorado.
It's always been one of my favorite places to visit because the mountain views, in my opinion, are a glimpse of heaven on earth.
I was able to sit on a few rooftop patios downtown, I went horseback riding in the Rockies in Beaver Creek and then I was able to sit in a hot tub in Vail while sipping my morning coffee (this photo is my view from the hot tub). Yes, I fell back in love with Colorado during my visit and I hope to be back there sometime soon!
Heaven on Earth!
Sun, snow, rivers, streams and...the mountains! That's what I saw while I was vacationing over the weekend in Denver and Vail, Colorado.
It's always been one of my favorite places to visit because the mountain views, in my opinion, are a glimpse of heaven on earth.
I was able to sit on a few rooftop patios downtown, I went horseback riding in the Rockies in Beaver Creek and then I was able to sit in a hot tub in Vail while sipping my morning coffee (this photo is my view from the hot tub). Yes, I fell back in love with Colorado during my visit and I hope to be back there sometime soon!
PIC: Cool Clouds
I took this picture from the rooftop of a friends condo in Chicago. We were having cocktails tonight when the storm was rolling in. Super cool clouds!
Shade Combinations for Attracting Hummingbirds
Don't let shade stop you from attracting hummingbirds to your garden. Include a few hummingbird favorites in the garden or container plantings.
Fuchsia is a favorite of shade gardeners and hummingbirds. Try using one of the upright types like Thalia, Gartenmeister or Firecracker with its variegated leaves. Add a fern for texture and wire vine as a groundcover in the garden or spiller in the container.
Consider adding a few or quite a few Dragon wing begonias to the garden. The large plants put on a show all summer long with the red and pink flowers. They combine nicely with impatiens, another hummingbird favorite. And surround this combination with a groundcover or trailer of Silver Falls Dichondra.
Include a backdrop of summer long bloom you and the hummingbirds will enjoy. Train a honeysuckle vine onto a fence or decorative trellis for screening and hummingbird appeal. Try the mildew resistant Major Wheeler.
A bit more information: For more ideas on attracting birds and butterflies to your garden visit www.birdsandblooms.com . See projects and ideas on attracting wildlife to the garden and you'll find my answers to common garden questions. Also, be sure to look for my article "Make Room for Hummingbirds and Butterflies" in the June/July 2013 issue of Birds & Blooms magazine.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
Buttered Rum, Southern Comfort - Colorful Perennials for the Garden
How about a bit of Buttered Rum or Southern Comfort in the garden? No, I am not talking about a drink, but rather a few colorful perennials.
Heucherella 'Buttered Rum' is a hybrid with coral bells, known as Heuchera. And foamflower, called Tiarella as its parents. The maple shaped leaves have a caramel edge and are topped with white flowers in spring.
Southern Comfort coral bells have cinnamon peach leaves that mature to amber. The white flowers on this plant appear in summer.
Finish off your planting with a little dessert. Peach Flambe coral bells have bright peach leaves in the cooler months of spring and fall. The leaves turn a softer peach in summer and plum purple for winter.
Use a combination of these and other coral bells and foamflowers to create a tapestry of color in your partial shade to full sun gardens. Be sure to keep the soil slightly moist throughout the season.
A bit more information: Add some Dolce® Key Lime Pie to the dessert buffet. This coral bell has chartreuse foliage all season long. The heart shaped leaves are mottled with lime green. Mix a few with dark green or blue-green hostas for an eye-catching combination.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
Grammy-award winning singer, songwriter, producer and multi-platinum selling artist Bruno Mars will sit down for an exclusive interview and to premiere his new music video “It Will Rain,” the first single from THE TWILIGHT SAGA: BREAKING DAWN – PART 1 soundtrack that features a never-before-seen clip from the film, on MTV on Wednesday, October 26th at 7:54pm ET / 6:54pm CT during “MTV First: Bruno Mars.”
Kenny Wormald calls in to chat w Van McNeil about starring the in the Footloose movie in theaters THIS FRIDAY, October 14th. Plus, what people are saying about the remake and has he talked to Kevin Bacon about it? All that and lots, lots more!
Our friend Bruno Mars will be featured on the new, "The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn Part 1." Soundtrack which is available starting November 8th.
The SportsRadio 1250 WSSP-AM crew was at Miller Park on Friday, September 24th, 2011. The night our Milwukee Brewers clinched the National League Central Division Championship!
I had a great time hanging and chatting w Colbie Caillat (and her new puppy Mahti) before her show at The Pabst Theater.
I'm just getting up this fine Tuesday morning only to find out that our good friend Gavin DeGraw was assulted yesterday and hit by a taxi in New York City.
Get to know Rock The Green artist Michelle Branch. I had the chance to chat w her backstage at Summerfest.
Matt Nathanson joins Van McNeil for a chat about his new record, "Modern Love" in stores and avail at MattNathanson.com.
Van McNeil (Noon-4pm) has your tickets to The Mix Sneak Peek of Zookeeper starring Kevin James. Listen for you cue to call next week! (414.799.1099)
Watertown, Wisconsin's very own Kevin Stangler joins me to chat about his role in the touring production of Fiddler On The Roof now on stage at Marcus Center for the Perfoming Arts. Get tickets at 
Based on an incredible real-life experience, the film is a funny, touching story of friendship and survival starring Seth Rogen, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Anna Kendrick, Bryce Dallas Howard and Anjelica Huston. Adam (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) is an average guy in his mid-20s when heâs diagnosed with a rare form of terminal cancer. His family and friends â from girl-crazy best buddy Kyle (Seth Rogen), to insecure girlfriend Rachael (Bryce Dallas Howard) and overbearing but loving mom (Anjelica Huston) â attempt to help him through this process in the best way they know howâ¦with some bizarre and funny results. Counseled by a young, supportive psychiatrist (Anna Kendrick) through the months that follow, with his best friend Kyle a constant presence, Adam learns to embrace what is important. Equally humorous and poignant, the film is a dramedy about a second chance at a new beginning.
J.J. Abrams chats w Van McNeil about "Super 8' in theaters.
Elle Fanning chats w Van McNeil about 'Super 8' in theaters this weekend.
Grammy Award winner Jason Mraz joins Van McNeil for a chat about his July 2nd Summerfest show, openers Guster and what's up with a new record? Jason answers all that and then some.
Listen to Van McNeil (12p-4p) to win tickets to see Born To Be Wild in stunning IMAX 3D. (414.799.1099)
