Amy Lee from Evanescence calls in to chat w Van McNeil about their NEW self titled album which just debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 Album Charts, what fans can expect in concert and lots, LOTS more!
You've heard, maybe even read or saw something about Cirque Du Soleil before, right?
Well, now is your chance to check them out in person at Bradley Center as Cirque Du Soleil Quidam is in town thru this Sunday, October 23rd.
In Cirque Du Soleil Quidam, Young Zoé is bored; her parents, distant and apathetic, ignore her. Her life has lost all meaning. Seeking to fill the void of her existence, she slides into an imaginary world - the world of Quidam - where she meets characters who encourage her to free her soul.
Grammy Award-winning artist Cee Lo Green will join the star-studded musical line-up on THE VICTORIA'S SECRET FASHION SHOW, airing Tuesday, Nov. 29 (10:00PM, ET/ 9:00pm CT) on the CBS. Cee Lo Green joins previously announced artists Kanye West and Maroon 5.
Supermodel Candice Swanepoel will open the lingerie runway show, which will also star supermodels Adriana Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio, Miranda Kerr, Doutzen Kroes, Erin Heatherton, Lily Aldridge, Lindsey Ellingson and a bevy of other Victoria's Secret Angels, and will also include red carpet interviews, model profiles and a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the world's most celebrated fashion show.
The runway looks will include over-the-top lingerie embellished with SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS, iconic angel wings and the $2.5 million Fantasy Treasure Bra worn by Supermodel Miranda Kerr.
In Novemeber of 2004, Tony Hale (Buster Bluth) called in to chat with Van McNeil about the second season of Arrested Development. In this interview Tony talks about the cast, what his plan were after the show and much more! ***Creator Mitch Hurwitz announced today that a mini-4th season of nine to ten episodes would air, leading up to a major motion picture. Dates on the return of Arrested Development episodes and the film have yet to be announced.
It's no wonder why it's the #1 Haunted House in the NATION!
Screams are their business.
Wisconsin FearGrounds is in the habit of terrifying its guests, and has gained national recognition for it. This year, the FearGrounds has been recognized as the #1 “MUST SEE” haunt in the United States by Haunted Attraction Magazine.
Located at the Waukesha County Expo Center, 1000 Northview Road, Waukesha, WI 53188, the haunted attraction waits ominously for those brave enough to cross its threshold.
Ann Marie and Timothy Gavinski are owners of Nightmares4U, the company responsible for the Wisconsin FearGrounds.
“We want everyone to enjoy the experience,” Ann Marie said. “Whether they come to be scared, to laugh, or to be creeped out, we want them to have fun.”
The Gavinskis are very active in the haunted attraction industry. Timothy has served two terms as president of the International Association of Haunted Attractions (IAHA) and the Gavinskis are frequent instructors at a number of national seminars on owning and operating haunted attractions.
Timothy received an industry award in 2010 in recognition of his support, dedication and contribution to the haunted attraction industry.
Thanks to everyone who came up to The Russ Darrow Group in West Bend on Saturday for the 2011 Toyota Prius Giveaway! Many people entered and qualified but only ONE could win and that ONE was Todd from Mequon!
A email from our winner Todd from Mequon:
Hello, I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone from the WMYX staff that was present for the drawing for the car on Saturday. Everyone was so friendly and I could just tell they were rooting for the whole crowd to win. I was lucky enough to be the winner and could not be more thrilled. Special thanks to Kid and Elizabeth for cheering everyone on, to JoJo for being the lucky charm on car winners and Van McNeil for not pulling my number out of the bucket. I am trading my old Honda Civic either back to the dealer or selling it soon and should be picking up the car by next weekend. They were going to let me drive it home that day, but I was still shaking from the adrenaline. Again, thanks to all. I look forward to hitting WMYX on the preset when I drive it home! Â Todd.
Get ready to take flight! Six Flags Great America announces plans to add a state-of-the-art roller coaster for the 2012 season. X-Flight is a ground-breaking wing coaster featuring cutting-edge technology. The Gurnee theme park is the first to announce plans for a wing coaster in the U.S.
X-Flight will take riders on a flight that defies gravity, with no track above or below them. Riders sit in pairs, suspended on either side of the track with their feet dangling, as they begin their climb up a 12-story plunge launching them into speeds of 55mph through 3,000 feet of intense drops and five inversions, including a barrel roll and zero-g roll. One of the most adrenaline-pumping moments on the ride is an extreme fly-through where the coaster speeds straight toward a structure, before making a last-minute vertical flip to fit through a keyhole cut-out.
âSix Flags Great America has a long history of introducing legendary rides and first-of-its-kind roller coasters,â said Hank Salemi, Six Flags Great America Park President. âWhat makes
X-Flight so unique is soaring through 3,000 feet of high-speed drops, loops and turns, with nothing above or below you. The coasterâs train actually looks like a plane with seats suspended on either side of the track. Itâs like nothing you have ever experienced before. We are thrilled to bring this revolutionary wing coaster to our guests for the 2012 season.â
X-Flight is designed by acclaimed Swiss manufacturer Bolliger & Mabillard, who also designed Six Flags Great America favorites: Raging Bull, SUPERMAN: Ultimate Flight and BATMAN: The Ride. The wing coaster will make its home in the County Fair section of the park. Construction begins this Fall. X-Flight is scheduled to open Spring of 2012.
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!
Eariler this year, I had the chance to work w Bruno Mars for a nationwide radio takeover hosted by Kiss Fm's Rahny Taylor.
Rahny handled the interview like a pro, while I was behind the camera and we both found out all about Bruno Mars music, videos, life and what he's all about. Very cool dude!
Now he's nominated for a boatload of MTV Video Music Awards and will be performing at the LIVE broadcast for L.A. on Sunday, August 28th 9/8c.
Get the stories behind the music, watch music videos and find out what his plans are for the future!
Bruno Mars Radio Takeover 1/3 - Bruno talks about the sturggles of breaking into the music biz and almost quitting. Plus, writing or performing? Which does he perfer?
Music Videos: B.O.B - Nutin' On You. Travie McCoy - Billionaire.
Bruno Mars Radio Takeover 2/3 - Bruno talks Cee Lo Green, Awards Shows and who was "Just The Way You Are" all about?
Music Videos: Cee Lo Green - Forget You. Bruno Mars f/ Cee Lo Green - The Other Side. Bruno Mars - Just The Way You Are.
Bruno Mars Radio Takeover 3/3 - Bruno describes his "sound" and how the Lazy Song came to be. Plus he talks family, fashion, music and...is Bruno Mars SINGLE?
Music Videos: Bruno Mars - Grenade. Bruno Mars f/ Damian Marley - The Other Side.
MTV announced that Bruno Mars is set to take his talents to the â2011 MTV Video Music Awardsâ stage as the latest artist added to this yearâs amazing lineup of VMA performers. With this performance and four VMA nominations including âVideo of the Year,â the multi-talented singer, musician, songwriter and producer continues to add to an extraordinary year of achievements that include: his multi-platinum certified debut album, Doo-Wops & Hooligans, co-writing, producing and performing on the smash-hits B.o.Bâs âNothinâ On You,â Travie McCoyâs âBillionaireâ and Cee Lo Greenâs âF***k You! (Forget You)â as well as his hit singles, âJust The Way You Are,â âGrenadeâ and âThe Lazy Song.â Additionally, the first round of 2011 VMA presenters have been announced from the world of music and pop culture including: Jonah Hill from the upcoming film Moneyball, the Teflon Don aka The Boss Rick Ross, Seth Rogen from the movie 50/50, platinum recording artist and Emmy Award-winning actress Selena Gomez, Keeping Up With The Kardashians very own Kim Kardashian, and hip-hopâs most innovative alternative collective, Odd Future.
âWeâre thrilled to have Bruno Mars bring his exceptional talent to the VMA stage,â said Amy Doyle, Executive Producer of the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards and EVP, Music & Talent, MTV. âHe is one of the most exciting live performers today and with his artistic versatility, he will undoubtedly deliver a standout performance.â
Bruno Mars joins previously announced 2011 VMA performers including Adele, Lil Wayne, Chris Brown and Young The Giant. 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.
Viewers can vote for all general VMA categories by visiting vma.mtv.com online or m.mtv.com on their mobile phone through August 16th. In addition, Best New Artist text voting is open to all wireless carrier subscribers by texting BNA to 66333. Voting for this category continues through the show, live on August 28th. Verizon subscribers can vote on all categories via SMS by texting VMA to 66333 (standard message rates apply.)
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
My family and I had a great time at the 2011 Milwaukee Air & Water Show over the weekend. I even got on the mic and had some fun w legendary Air & Water Show announcer, Herb Henry.
If you've never been to a Milwaukee Air & Water Show, make it a point to check it out in 2012.
In a statement, Jennifer Lopez and Marc Anthony say, "We have decided to end our marriage. This was a very difficult decision. We have come to amicable conclusion on all matters. It is a painful time for all involved, and we appreciate the respect of our privacy at this time.".
Relationships are tough. In Hollywood, even more so. Whatever the reason may be for the split, I wish them both the best.
Donnie Wahlberg joins Van McNeil to chat about the NKOTBSB Tour, his role in the new Kevin James movie, 'Zookeeper', the new Jordan Knight song that features him, "Stingy"and lots more!
Summerfest fans can secure their place in Summerfest Music History with the new Summerfest Commemorative Paver Program. Perfect for fans, families, friends, organizations, special dedications or celebrating a special event or memory, each brick paver will be inscribed with a personal message or tribute and placed in a new area that has been created as part of the South End Renovation Project, Beat Street Plaza, located just inside the new South Gate.
Fans can purchase commemorative pavers by visiting Summerfest.com/paver or calling 1-855-FEST-PVR. Three different brick sizes and designs are available beginning at $75 ranging up to $200. Additionally, replica pavers are available for purchase with each order; perfect for displaying in the home, office or lobby. The replica paver is made of the same material and includes the exact message inscribed on the installed paver at Henry Maier Festival Park. All replicas include a plaque commemorating each purchaserâs place in Summerfest history along with an official âCertificate of Recognitionâ suitable for framing. Patrons may also purchase paver gift certificates by calling 1-855-FEST-PVR.
âWe are excited to offer a new way for fans to get involved and literally become part of Summerfest history,â said Don Smiley, President and CEO, Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. âBeat Street Plaza will be a place for festival-goers and visitors from around the world to share in the memories, excitement and magic that Summerfest creates every year at Henry Maier Festival Park.â
The Summerfest Commemorative Paver Program falls on the heels of the completion of Phase One of the South End Redevelopment Project, which features a new 6,000 â 8,000 capacity outdoor stage/venue, the Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard, a new South Gate and Box Office, as well as new food and beverage buildings and restrooms; all ready for Summerfest 2011. Phase Two of the project will commence in fall of 2011, after the festival season.
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, from Noon until Midnight daily. Summerfest will be closed Monday. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs 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
Franklin, WI's very own Nick Young is in the TOP 20 on Season 8 of SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE!
Watch Wednesdays 7:00pm CST for the performance show and Thursdays 7:00pm CST for the results show (FOX). Don't forget to vote for Nick every Wednesday beginning at 9:00pm CST!
Voting information:
Cast up to 50 votes online at www.fox.com/dance (you must have a registered Facebook account) immediately after the show airs every Wednesday evening throughout the summer beginning June 15th.
Along with voting online, you can cast an UNLIMITED number of votes via the toll-free telephone number designated for Nick. You can also vote an UNLIMITED number of times by texting the designated key number to the five-digit short code 83676.
Summerfest officials are excited to announce details of their partnership with Kohlâs Department Stores through its Kohlâs Cares® program to present the Kohlâs Captivation Station, a new area that will feature kid-friendly performances and educational experiences during Summerfest. Sponsored by Kohlâs Cares, Kohlâs philanthropic program that sells special merchandise and donates 100 percent of the net profits to childrenâs health and education initiatives nationwide, the Kohlâs Captivation Station is located on the south end of Henry Maier Festival Park and will be open from Noon â 8:00 pm, every day of Summerfest.
Children will be able to participate in hands-on musical experiences, mini-clinics, art projects and educational demonstrations each day. Theyâll get to explore the different sounds of drums and guitars while learning tips from instructors during free clinics presented by Cascio Interstate Music, after which they can be a rock star for the day and show what theyâve learned. The Kohlâs Captivation Station is targeted for kids 12 and older but also offers programs for the whole family including the Kohlâs Color Wheels mobile unit, an art experience in partnership with the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Kohlâs Design It! Mobile Lab, an interactive experience with Discovery World where kids can learn more about design. New interactive games, art projects and activities are offered each day.
Throughout the festival, the Kohlâs Captivation Station will showcase entertaining performances from magicians, comic jugglers and bands including Radio Disney Beach Party, Marcus Monroe, Tonyâs Creepy Crawly Zoo, Sir Pinkerton and the Magnificents, Comedy Sportz and more!
âAs a family-focused retailer, Kohlâs is committed to kids health and education initiatives in the communities we serve,â said Julie Gardner, Kohlâs Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer. âWe are pleased to bring this new program to Summerfest as an exciting opportunity for families to learn while having fun at one of Milwaukeeâs premier summer events.â
In addition to the Kohlâs Captivation Station, Summerfest and Kohlâs are proud to announce that Sunday, July 3 is Kohlâs Family Day, where from Noon â 3:00 pm, the first 1,500 patrons who donate three (3) non-perishable food items for kids will receive one (1) FREE Summerfest admission ticket. All food items benefit Hunger Task Force.
Schedules for the Kohlâs Captivation Station and information about Kohlâs Family Day can be found at Henry Maier Festival Park during Summerfest and online at Summerfest.com. Since 2000, Kohlâs and the Kohlâs Cares program have combined to give approximately $38 million to support charitable initiatives in the metro-Milwaukee area. For more information on Kohlâs philanthropic efforts or to purchase Kohlâs Cares cause merchandise, visit www.Kohls.com/Cares
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!
Yabba dabba doo! FOX has picked up THE FLINTSTONES, a 21st century version of the classic animated comedy from executive producer Seth MacFarlane. In a cross-studio collaboration, THE FLINTSTONES will be produced jointly by 20th Century Fox Television and Warner Bros. Television. Warner Bros. is home to THE FLINTSTONES via its ownership of the Hanna-Barbera collection of animated titles. Dan Palladino (âGilmore Girlsâ) and Kara Vallow (FAMILY GUY) will also serve as executive producers. THE FLINTSTONES will begin production in fall 2011 and will be set in stone on the FOX schedule in 2013.
âThe very first cartoon character I drew at age two was Fred Flintstone,â said MacFarlane. âSo itâs appropriate that events have come full circle, allowing me to produce the newest incarnation of this great franchise. Plus, I think America is finally ready for an animated sitcom about a fat, stupid guy with a wife whoâs too good for him.â
âThe Flintstones are among the funniest and most beloved characters in television history, and we canât wait to introduce them to a whole new generation on FOX,â said Kevin Reilly, President of Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. âFOX has long been home to iconic families like the Simpsons and the Griffins, so I have no doubt that the Flintstones and the Rubbles are going to fit right in on our air.â
The (pre)historic return of THE FLINTSTONES will feature MacFarlaneâs modern-day take on the lives of the Flintstones and the Rubbles, two hard-working middle-class families living with contemporary conveniences in the dinosaur-era town of Bedrock. The series centers on hard-headed patriarch FRED FLINTSTONE and best friend and sidekick BARNEY RUBBLE. Fredâs Stone-Age clan includes wife WILMA, daughter PEBBLES and pet dinosaur DINO, while Barneyâs brood consists of wife BETTY and son BAMM-BAMM.
MacFarlaneâs lineup of animated series continues to dominate Sunday nights. Everyoneâs favorite families from Quahog, Langley Falls and Stoolbend will be back for more laughs as FAMILY GUY, AMERICAN DAD and THE CLEVELAND SHOW were recently renewed for a 10th, seventh and fourth seasons, respectively.
Summerfest officials are excited to announce the tenth headliner slated for Summerfest 2011.
 Britney Spears will headline the Marcus Amphitheater on Saturday, July 9 at 7:00PM along with special guest, Nicki Minaj.
The show will be part of the highly anticipated âFemme Fataleâ tour that comes in support of her most recent release Femme Fatale which includes the hit singles âTill the World Endsâ and âHold It Against Meâ. Femme Fatale debuted at Number One on the Billboard 200, making Spears the only female artist ever to have six number one debut albums, and have seven albums debut in the top two spots. Britney Spears has sold over 100 million records worldwide, making her one of the best-selling music artists in the history of contemporary music. Her hit list is extensive and includes singles like ââ¦Baby One More Timeâ, âOops!...I Did It Againâ, âToxicâ, âGimme Moreâ and âWomanizerâ. She is also recognized as the best-selling female artist of the first decade of the 21st century, as well as the fifth overall. In June 2010, Britney was ranked sixth on Forbes list of the 100 Most Powerful and Influential celebrities in the world.
Joining Spears on tour is hip hop recording artist, Nicki Minaj, whoâs debut studio album, Pink Friday became a commercial success and was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) a month after its release. Her single âYour Loveâ reached Number One on the Billboard Hot Rap Songs chart, making Minaj the first female artist to top the chart unaccompanied since 2002.
The ladies will also be joined by Jessie and the Toy Boys and Nervo, on the all-female lineup.
Tickets go on sale Saturday, May 21 at 11:00AM and include Summerfest admission. 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 (âTicketmaster Expressâ automated phone line). Patrons may also utilize âticketfastâ at Ticketmaster.com to print bar coded concert tickets from home. Convenience fees may be added to all purchases.
Summerfest 2011 will take place June 29 â July 3 and July 5 â 10, from Noon until Midnight daily. Summerfest will be closed Monday. The Worldâs Largest Music Festival and Milwaukeeâs cornerstone summer celebration attracts the music industryâs 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
British pop superstar Cheryl Cole will join Antonio âL.A.â Reid and Simon Cowell as a judge on THE X FACTOR, the highly anticipated singing competition series debuting this fall on FOX. Cole, who has sat alongside Cowell as a judge on the U.K. version of âThe X Factorâ for three years, is a multi-platinum-selling solo artist and a member of Girls Aloud, one of the U.K.âs most successful female vocal groups of all time. Cole will join Cowell, Reid and an additional judge (to be announced) as they travel to THE X FACTOR audition cities searching for the next global superstar or breakout music group.
âIâm thrilled for Cheryl. She is massively excited about this show, and has been fantastic to work with,â said Cowell. âShe is also a complete brat! Most importantly, this girl can spot talent.â
âIâm so excited to be taking part in the American version of THE X FACTOR. I absolutely love it here in the U.K., and with the talent they have out in America, Iâm sure weâre going to find someone very special. I canât wait to get started,â said Cole. âI just canât decide whether I am more excited to find and nurture the talent or for the unbelievable amount of amusement and entertainment I will have watching Simon doing everything and anything he can to beat me. Heâs tried to beat me for three years in the U.K., and hasnât even come close. His ego must be so bruised. America is gonna love this.â
âCheryl Cole has the whole THE X FACTOR package: Sheâs an incredibly talented artist and performer, as well as a style icon, and she has that special charisma that draws in fans around the world,â said Mike Darnell, President of Alternative Entertainment, Fox Broadcasting Company. âCherylâs charm and chemistry with Simon have been a key part of the overwhelming success of âThe X Factorâ in the U.K., and we canât wait to welcome her to the U.S. on our air.â
âAs a young artist whose talent show discovery led to almost immediate stardom, Cherylâs career exemplifies the promise of THE X FACTOR,â said executive producer Cecile Frot-Coutaz. âHer empathy and passion for identifying and nurturing undiscovered talent has made her a huge hit with British audiences, and I have no doubt America will fall in love with her beauty, her accent and her incredible chemistry with Simon Cowell.â
Auditions continue in Dallas, TX, on Thursday, May 26. Now through this Sunday, May 8, hopefuls may also audition in specially built high-definition recording studios in Honolulu, HI; Phoenix, AZ; Nashville, TN; Anchorage, AK; Kansas City, KS; and Denver, CO.
THE X FACTOR is searching for undiscovered talent 12 years old or over â both solo artists and vocal groups â who are willing to brave the panel for a chance to win a $5 million recording contract with Syco/Sony Music. Interested solo artists and vocal groups should sign up now for audition information at www.fox.com/theXfactor or call toll-free 855-345-5678.
Oh, and BTW...Text MELT to 30543Â from your mobile devices for your chance to win a $50 Gift Card to check out The Melting Pot in Brookfield for yourself. Deadline 5/6/11 5pm CT. Good luck!
Kohlâs Art Generation is a joint effort between Kohlâs Department Stores and the Milwaukee Art Museum (through Kohlâs Cares) to bring art and creativity to area kids and their families.
The program includes the Kohlâs Art Generation Gallery and a Kohlâs Art Generation Studio onsite at the Milwaukee Art Museum, where kids participate in exciting and creative projectsâall while seeing some of their best work showcased exclusively at the Museum.
Find out all about the Kohl's Art Generation visit: http://mam.org/artgeneration
A very big THANK YOU to everyone who joined UPAF on Tuesday, March 29th for UPAF's 2011 Campaign Kick Off at the Broadway Theatre Center where the 2011 Campaign goal of $9.65 million was announced.
I was paired up with the lovely and talented Co-Founder of Dance Works Inc., Amy Brinkman and let me just say she is a miracle worker.
I've even heard rumors of a possible Dancing With The UPAF Stars Summer Tour! I think I need some more classes before that. What do you think?
So You Think You Can Dance Host Cat Deeley chats w Van about the final weekend of auditions in L.A. and what the judges are looking for. Plus she gives advice on what Van should wear for his dance competition and lots more.
SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE has been traveling across the U.S. in search of the best and most talented dancers in the country. Hopefuls have one more opportunity to show the judges they have what it takes to be Americaâs Favorite Dancer as auditions make the final stop in Los Angeles, CA, on Saturday, March 12.
Miss Nebraska 2010 Teresa Scanlan from Gerig, Nebraska was crowned Miss America 2011 Saturday night at the Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in Las Vegas. The final night of the 90th Anniversary of the Miss America Pageant presented by DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse was broadcast live from Las Vegas on ABC.
Teresa's triumphant walk across the stage was just the beginning of a journey that will take her to every corner of the country during her year of service as Miss America 2011. She will travel approximately 20,000 miles each month speaking to audiences about her platform of Eating Disorders: A Generation at Risk, and acting as the National Goodwill Ambassador for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. Children's Miracle Network Hospitals, a non-profit organization dedicated to saving and improving the lives of children by raising funds for children's hospitals, is the national platform partner of the Miss America Organization.
In addition, Miss America 2011 will be the official spokesperson for Joseph Ribkoff International Clothing Company, who will provide Teresa with a full wardrobe for the year.
Teresa will be a student at Patrick Henry College. Her scholastic ambition is to attend law school and she ultimately hopes to become a judge and eventually a politician. Along with the title of Miss America 2011, Teresa won a $50,000 scholarship sponsored by Artistry exclusively by Amway to continue her education. For the talent portion of the competition, Teresa performed "White Water Chopped Sticks" on the piano.
The first runner-up was Miss Arkansas Alyse Eady who earned a $25,000 scholarship. Her talent performance was Vocal-Ventriloquism to "I want to be a Cowboy's Sweetheart" and her personal platform is Boys and Girls Clubs of America.
Second runner-up honors and a $20,000 scholarship were awarded to Miss Hawaii Jalee Fuselier. Her talent was a vocal performance to "Feelin' Good," and her personal platform is "Ready for the Real World."
Miss New York Claire Buffie and Miss Delaware Kayla Martell were the winners of ABC's America's Choice, an online competition where the public had the opportunity to vote for their favorite Miss America contestant. The contestants were announced at the beginning of the Miss America broadcast and became the 12th and 13th finalists to compete in the live finale. Two contestants were voted into the Top 15 by their fellow contestants and they were Miss Kentucky Djuan Trent and Miss Oregon Stephenie Steers.
As the world's largest provider of scholarship assistance for young women and one of the nation's leading achievement programs, the Miss America Organization last year made available more than $45 million in cash and scholarship assistance. The Miss America Organization provides young women with a vehicle to further their personal and professional goals and instills a spirit of community service through a variety of nationwide community-based programs.
The 2011 Ford Fiesta has been all over Milwaukee the last couple of weeks giving you a look at why it's a pretty big deal. One of the last events for the 2011 Ford Fiesta was to hang all weekend at the Bradford Beach Jam Sports & Music Festival. Well, with the recent rains/flooding the event has been rescheduled for Aug 20-22. So no "fiesta" if you will at the beach this weekend. But I got you covered! I was one of the first people to drive the brand new 2011 Ford Fiesta and I'm giving you an exclusive look.
The brand new 2011 Ford Fiesta is in town for the next couple of weeks and you can be one of the first people to check it out. Join the Ford Fiesta at Bradford Beach Jam Sports and Music Festival July 23-25 at Bradford Beach w games and fun, plus check out the 15 features that you WON'T find on any other vehicle in its class. The 2011 Ford Fiesta. It's A Pretty Big Deal!
Find out more: www.FordFiestaBigDeal.com
Check out Van's new ride. A 2010 Volkswagen Tiguan from Concours Motors.
Get into this SUV and save yourself some $$$! On top of great fuel economy (29 MPG) take advantage of 1.9% financing for 60 months...but you gotta act fast. Watch the video and get all of the details.
Hi Mom's and Dad's. Thank you for stopping by. Now, if you are looking to get the kids/family outta the house may I suggest to you a visit to the Milwaukee Art Museum for the Kohl's Art Generation Program. I know what you're asking, "What is the Kohl's Art Generation Program?" Lemme tell you...
Kohlâs Art Generation is comprised of four educational programs which seek not only to inform kids about art and its value, but also to involve them in hands-on, creative art experiences that whet their appetites for more.
The Kohlâs Art Generation Gallery takes kids and families on a journey to discover specific aspects of art.
The Kohlâs Art Generation Studio for all new creative activities inspired by the Kohlâs Art Generation. The studio features projects for kids and families to create together.
Take a video preview and learn more by watching the video below.
We get your letters...
What an amazing weekend!
First of all, a very big THANK YOU to everyone who came out to Grafton and Mukwonago and waited in line amid cold, windy and rainy conditions for those Wisconsin Dells Season Opener Cards.
For me, it is a chance to meet / hang out with YOU the listener and give you goodies!
Second, got this letter from our 99.1 The Mix Contact Us forum, from the Dawson family of Port Washington and was truly surprised that my "simple gesture" warranted the following...
Question: Your Name:
Answer: Michelle
Question: Your City:
Answer: Port Washington
Comments:
Yesterday I took my parents to Grafton to wait for season opener cards. It was quite a cold morning. We arrived at 10 because in the past there have been huge lines. My mother is recovering from a recent open-heart surgery. She is a very petite older woman.
Van McNeil was interacting with people people in line and I asked him if it would be possible for my mom to going to the bank to warm up. He unexpectedly took my mom's hand and escorted her into the building. He was so kind to her and gave her a hug. He made sure she was warm and dry and took very good care of her.
My mom and dad are thrilled to be going to the Dells. Unknown to Van my dad just got out of The hospital last Friday after 4 1/2 weeks of being in. It's been a very rough couple of months for my parents and their health. My mother was just beaming about how nice Van was.
I wanted to thank you for the season opener cards which will allow my parents and my family to enjoy a vacation in Wisconsin this summer, and send a special thank you to Van for being so wonderful to my parents.
You're welcome and THANK YOU Michelle!
Just doing what I do because that's how my mama raised me!
Enjoy the Dells!
-Van
#everylistenermatters
Perennial Garden Renovations
Give your tired perennial garden a boost without a total renovation. Topdressing your garden with compost every year or two provides most if not all the nutrients your perennials need.
Pull back the mulch if needed. Then spread an inch of compost over the soil surface. You can buy a quality compost or make your own.
Leave the compost on the surface or lightly mix it into the soil. The earthworms, ground beetles, and other organisms will take it from there – moving the compost into the soil and around the plant roots where it is needed.
Or, do a bit of vertical mulching. Use an auger bit on your cordless drill. Simply drill holes into the soil between plants. Then fill the holes with compost. This gets the compost closer to the plant roots and soil organisms that will help mix it into and improve the soil.
Soil preparation and repair will help transform your garden.
A bit more information: Apply a plant strengthener such as JAZ spray to increase plant vigor and their natural ability to tolerate environmental stresses, insect attacks, and disease problems. These natural products aren't fertilizers or pesticides. They can be applied to established plants at the beginning of the season to boost their ability to deal with stress or as soon as problems arise.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
Growing Banana Plants Indoors or Out
Add a bit of the tropics indoors or out with a banana plant.
The large leaves are great for screening views and creating a bit of privacy on a balcony, patio or in the yard. Add a wicker planter or chair and you have your own tropical get-away.
The fiber banana (Musa basjoo) is hardy in zones 5 to 11. It grows in full sun. It will die back to the ground and benefit from winter mulch in northern areas of its hardiness zone.
Less hardy and smaller, the blood banana (Musa acuminata 'Zebrina'), has large leaves with red markings on 6 to 8 foot plants. It's only hardy in zones 10 to 11, but can be overwintered as a houseplant or allowed to go dormant in other areas.
Combine these tropical beauties with palms, ginger and bird-of-paradise. Or add some hardy tropical look-alikes such as Japanese forest grass, large leaf hostas and trumpet vines.
A bit more information: Push the limits of your growing region with special wintering techniques developed by Dr. David Francko, author of Palms Won't Grow Here and Other Myths: Warm-Climate Plants for Cooler Areas. And for those in warmer regions check out Creating the Tropical Look.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
Preserving the Asparagus Harvest
Preserve the flavor and nutrition of asparagus to enjoy year round.
This flavorful vegetable is low in calories and high in Vitamins A and C as well as fiber. Unfortunately, it is most readily available and at the best price in the spring.
Insure the best flavor with proper harvesting. Select young tender spears 8 to 10 inches tall. Wash, remove the ends, and then cut to fit the freezer bag or container.
Blanch the asparagus before freezing to lock in flavor, color and texture. Dip the asparagus into boiling water. You'll need a large pan with a lid. Blanch small spears for 2 minutes, medium spears for 3 minutes and large spears for 4 minutes.
Remove and immediately set the blanched spears in ice water for 5 minutes to cool. Drain and freeze.
And, if you don't have an asparagus patch, you may want to consider planting one this year.
A bit more information: May is National Asparagus Month. For tips on planting and harvesting asparagus listen to my audio tip. And check out the National Center for Home Food Preservation website for helpful tips and guidelines for preserving your harvest.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
Mexican Mint Marigold (Tagetes lucida)
Add a little color and flavor to your garden and salads with Mexican tarragon.
This subtle beauty is really a type of marigold, but the leaves and flowers have a tarragon fragrance and flavor.
Wait until after the danger of frost has passed to plant this zone 8 to 10 hardy plant. Grow it in full sun to part shade and well-drained soils. It is somewhat drought tolerant. Northern gardeners can treat it like an annual and those in the northern range of its hardiness zone may see it die back to the ground in a hard freeze. But don't worry its root hardy.
The yellow flowers appear in late summer and persist through fall. The 14 to 20 inch tall plants make a nice addition to herb gardens and flowerbeds.
Harvest the new growth to use fresh. Preserve the flavor by freezing the leaves or storing in vinegar. They tend to lose their flavor when dried.
A bit more information: You can find this plant listed under several common names including Mexican tarragon, Texas tarragon, pericon, and sweet mace. No matter the common name you can use the leaves and blossoms in soups, sauces and chicken dishes as well as salads. Some gardeners even seep it for tea. Visit Bonnie Plants for more information and gardeners ideas for growing and using this plant in the garden.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
Year of the Watermelon
Year of the Watermelon
The National Garden Bureau has declared 2013 the Year of the Watermelon. Be part of the celebration and consider planting watermelon in this year's garden.
Don't let the sweet flavor deceive you – these are nutritious as well as delicious. High in Vitamin C, low in fat and calories - it is a great way to boost your energy. Plus, all parts are edible.
You can pickle the rind, eat the fleshy portion fresh or roast or grind the seeds for flavoring. In china they stir fry watermelon while the Russians often pickle it before eating. You may want to try some new ways of enjoying this tasty summer treat.
Grow watermelon in full sun and well-drained soils. Save space by growing these plants on a trellis or decorative obelisk. Just secure the heavy fruit to the support with a cloth or macramé sling. Or plant a few seeds in a container and let the vines wander over your balcony or trellis.
A bit more information: Try planting one of the large picnic-type watermelons that can weigh 15 to 50 pounds. These are sure to get everyone in the family excited about growing and eating this, the largest edible fruit in the United States. Or perhaps you want to try one of the icebox melons that is much smaller at 5 to 15 pounds and easier to squeeze into the fridge. And don't forget about those with unique colored rinds and flesh and of course those that lack seeds.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
Clematis Stem Wilt
Clematis Stem Wilt
Your clematis looks beautiful until suddenly the stems and leaves start turning black. Though it looks bad your clematis will survive.
The fungus that causes this disease enters your plant through wounds and cracks in the stem near ground level. Fortunately new growth arising below this point will be disease free.
Reduce future problems by pruning out and destroying infested stems. Disinfect tools between cuts to reduce the risk of spreading this disease.
As new growth emerges from the soil carefully secure it to the support to reduce the risk of cracking and damage. Eliminating the entryways for the fungus will reduce the risk of disease.
In the future consider planting the crown of the clematis below the soil surface. This allows the plant to produce new shoots below the point of infection.
Try growing small flowered clematis that tend to resist this disease. Alpina, macropetala and the viticella types are a few to consider.
A bit more information: For a disease to occur you must have the causal organism (fungus, bacteria, virus) present, disease-promoting weather and susceptible plants. Remove one of these factors and you eliminate the disease. Keep this in mind when managing clematis stem wilt and other plant diseases in your garden.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
I'm a fan, are you?
Who doesn't LOVE a good Roller Coaster? Am I right?! I've been so very lucky to been have rasied in the Midwest, a stones throw away from Six Flags Great America, where I practicaly spent my summers as kid with my best bud Edgar!
Mom and dad would drop us off at open and pick us up at close. 10a-10p. Don't think I could handle that now. Heck, I could barley make it on one run of Batman The Ride Backwards!
Yes, that's right, for a limited time this season, (BTW... I tried to find out when from officials, they wouldn't budge, so get there soon!) Batman The Ride will be running BACKWARDS!!
MOBILE USERS: Click here to WATCH Van rides Batman: The Ride Backwards!
www.SixFlags.com
My Lucky Brewers Socks
I've been wearing these sock to the last few games I have attended at Miller Park and the crew always wins when I have them on. Do you think my socks lucky?
Matt Nathanson AND Plain White T's coming to Festa!
YES! That headline is correct...Matt Nathanson AND the Plain White T's will be performing at Festa Italiana, Saturday night, July 20th and I have the honor of being your ON STAGE HOST!!
I'm super stoked and looking forward to hanging with Platinum-selling singer-song writer Matt Nathanson, and Grammy-nominated Chicago-bred Plain White T's again!
Check out the videos from both groups last visit to The Mix Studios:
WATCH Matt Nathanson Interview and Performance.
WATCH Plain White T's Interview and Performance.
Watch for and Prevent Borers on Trees and Shrubs
Extreme heat and cold, droughts and floods can leave our plants stressed and more susceptible to damaging borers.
These insects are the immature stage of moths and beetles that feed under the bark and inside the stems of plants. Their feeding weakens and in some cases kills the plant.
Many borers are opportunists, attacking already stressed trees. We can't control the weather but we can help reduce stress on our plants. Start by growing plants suited to the climate and growing conditions in your landscape.
Mulch the area under and around the base of trees and shrubs. Organic mulches like wood chips keep the roots cool and moist and reduce competition from grass and weeds.
Be sure to water new plantings thoroughly and as needed the first few years. And do the same for established trees and shrubs during extended drought. This will keep them healthy and help ward off borers.
A bit more information: Incorporate trees and shrubs into perennial planting beds. You will create an attractive garden and better environment for the plants. Plus, planting beds as well as mulching will reduce the need for hand trimming and will keep weed whips and mowers away from the trunks of the trees. And don't pile soil or mulch over the stems of shrubs and the trunks of trees. These practices create entryways for pests and encourage disease problems.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
Lawn Revival
If sparse, bare spots or lots of weeds describe your lawn, it is time for a little lawn revival.
Start by evaluating the current state of your lawn. If more than 60% is bare or filled with weeds, it is time to start over. Look at this as an opportunity to properly prepare the soil, select a more drought tolerant lawn or convert it into a no mow or low maintenance lawn or planting bed.
Overseed thin sparse lawns. Core aerate first or use a slit seeder to insure good seed-to-soil contact. For small bare spots use a lawn patch kit or make your own. Mix a handful of quality grass seed into a bucket of topsoil. Remove any dead grass and roughen the soil surface. Then sprinkle the commercial or homemade lawn patch over the prepared bare spot.
Keep the soil moist until the grass seed begins to grow.
A bit more information: Larger areas will benefit from the addition of organic matter into the top 6 inches of soil before sowing the grass seed or laying sod. Keep the soil moist until the sod has rooted into the soil below and the grass seed begins to grow. Consider overseeding the lawn to help create a more uniform appearance in the lawn. For more information, click here.
For more gardening tips, how-to videos, podcasts and more, visit www.melindamyers.com
Amy Lee from Evanescence calls in to chat w Van McNeil about their NEW self titled album which just debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 Album Charts, what fans can expect in concert and lots, LOTS more!
You've heard, maybe even read or saw something about Cirque Du Soleil before, right? 
Grammy Award-winning artist Cee Lo Green will join the star-studded musical line-up on THE VICTORIA'S SECRET FASHION SHOW, airing Tuesday, Nov. 29 (10:00PM, ET/ 9:00pm CT) on the CBS. Cee Lo Green joins previously announced artists Kanye West and Maroon 5.
In Novemeber of 2004, Tony Hale (Buster Bluth) called in to chat with Van McNeil about the second season of Arrested Development. In this interview Tony talks about the cast, what his plan were after the show and much more! ***Creator Mitch Hurwitz announced today that a mini-4th season of nine to ten episodes would air, leading up to a major motion picture. Dates on the return of Arrested Development episodes and the film have yet to be announced.
It's no wonder why it's the #1 Haunted House in the NATION!
I had a great time hanging and chatting w Colbie Caillat (and her new puppy Mahti) before her show at The Pabst Theater.
My family and I had a great time at the 2011 Milwaukee Air & Water Show over the weekend. I even got on the mic and had some fun w legendary Air & Water Show announcer, Herb Henry.
May 3rd, 2011...I had the honor of taking over the nation w 
Summerfest fans can secure their place in Summerfest Music History with the new Summerfest Commemorative Paver Program. Perfect for fans, families, friends, organizations, special dedications or celebrating a special event or memory, each brick paver will be inscribed with a personal message or tribute and placed in a new area that has been created as part of the South End Renovation Project, Beat Street Plaza, located just inside the new South Gate.
The 2011 Ford Fiesta has been all over Milwaukee the last couple of weeks giving you a look at why it's a pretty big deal. One of the last events for the 2011 Ford Fiesta was to hang all weekend at the Bradford Beach Jam Sports & Music Festival. Well, with the recent rains/flooding the event has been rescheduled for Aug 20-22. So no "fiesta" if you will at the beach this weekend. But I got you covered! I was one of the first people to drive the brand new 2011 Ford Fiesta and I'm giving you an exclusive look.
The brand new 2011 Ford Fiesta is in town for the next couple of weeks and you can be one of the first people to check it out. Join the Ford Fiesta at Bradford Beach Jam Sports and Music Festival July 23-25 at Bradford Beach w games and fun, plus check out the 15 features that you WON'T find on any other vehicle in its class.
