FEB. 2ND ON THE SHOW
There are some young people out there saying that Social Security is nothing more than a giant ponzi scheme. Is it? Will the money be there when the younger tax payers retire? Our next guest, nationally syndicated columnist Tom Margenau, has the answers we're looking for. Tom has worked in a variety of positions with the Social Security Administration going back to 1973 and most recently as a director of public affairs for the aging. Incidentally, Toms column can be found in every issue of Your Smart Reader.

FEB. 1ST ON THE SHOW
We are only weeks away from the night that Hollywood salutes its finest, and their accomplishments, in the film industry. Most everyone has their favorite films and actors that they're rooting for, however, our next guests put emotions aside and go with gut instinct that usually proves right. Jim Jansen and Gary Pond with Marcus Theatres and Bryan Landon with Cinemark join us to share their insight on the Oscars and discuss the Winter slate of films.

JAN. 31ST ON THE SHOW
Growing up in the 1950's our guest Johanna Crawford says the words "domestic violence" were not part of the mainstream vocabulary and sadly there were no laws against it. Johanna, the founder of Web of Benefit, which helps women escape domestic violence and build new lives joins us to discuss her mission in life and what motivated her to start her non profit organization.

JAN. 30TH ON THE SHOW
In recent years life as we know it has changed. We are now at a point in time when it is difficult to establish what is the new normal. That would also apply to the real estate market. It's no longer business as usual and there seems to be more questions than answers. However our next guests, both experts in their field, can walk us through the treacherous minefield of short sales, foreclosures and a challenging mortgage market. Both Melissa Roach Zievers broker/owner of Sterling Properties of WI and Sheila Heg broker/owner off Lake to Lake Realty are back with us today for what promises to be an informative hour of conversation.

TUESDAY JAN. 24TH ON THE SHOW
Our next guest brought me back to my childhood growing up in the fifties. Must see TV in the Carmichael household included "The Adventures of Rin-Tin-Tin." However, older listeners may recall an earlier era, going back to silent movies when this iconic canine was responsible for helping Warner Brothers make their mortgage payments. With her new book "Rin-Tin-Tin: The Life and The Legend" Susan Orlean has deftly crafted the definitive history of a very famous dog whose origin can be traced back to 1918 and a tiny war torn town in France.

For many of us we first discovered Barry Livingston on "The Adventures of Ozzie & Harriet. However, it wasn't until he became Ernie on "My Three Sons" did the rest of America come to know the cute, nerdy next door neighbor to the Douglas clan. Amazingly Barry Livingston began his acting career performing on what would become the two longest running sitcoms in television history. In a business that devours child actors Livingston is a survivor. His five decades in show biz has been a f ascinating ride and he's now sharing it with us in his new book, "The Importance of Being Ernie: From My Three Sons to Mad Men, a Hollywood Survivor Tells All."

WEDNESDAY JAN. 25TH ON THE SHOW
When was the last time you just dropped in on a friend neighbor or relative? In the current issue of Happenings Magazine professor Robert Klose asks the question, What ever happened to the unannounced drop-in visit? Growing up I recall relatives stopping by on a Sunday just to say hi. Yet in 2011 I would never think of just showing up at someone's doorstep. Dr. Klose with the University of Maine joins us to discuss what is it that changed us in the last 50 years?

It appears as though the Grinch paid a visit to Sears this Christmas season. Holiday sales woes has cast a cloud over the legendary retailer with Sears Holdings Corp announcing this week the immanent closing of as many as 120 under performing stores. If you were to just read the headlines one might come away thinking that end be be near for Sears. Our next guest is well equipped to put the Sears story into perspective. Howard Davidowitz, the founder of Davidowitz & Associates rejoins us today. As a preeminent retail expert, Howard appears regularly on a number of media outlets including Bloomberg, Fox, CBS, NBC, ABC and PBS. He is also the go to guy in a number of publications including this mornings front page story in the Chicago Tribune.

THURSDAY JAN. 26TH ON THE SHOW
Just in time for the holiday party season, former investment banker and cocktail enthusiast Brian D. Murphy joins us to help take the guesswork out of making that perfect missed drink. No in book stores Brian's practical and ingenious guide, "See Mix Drink: A Refreshingly Simple Guide To Crafting The World's Most Popular Cocktails," features 100 of the most popular drinks from contemporary to the classics, including Murphy's favorite, "The Old Fashioned."

We've all experienced those moments growing up. In fact, even some of the coolest celebrities were once geeky adolescents. In a time when it's difficult to keep anything a secret a new television show is about to premiere. Beginning Monday, The Sundance Channel rolls out "The Mortified Sessions." It's our opportunity to take a voyeuristic trip back in time with celebrities who are willing to share private moments. our next guest, David Nadelberg writer, producer and angstologist of the new Sundance series joins us with a preview of what's in store for us Monday evening.

FRIDAY JAN. 27TH ON THE SHOW
Much has transpired since Laura Kaeppeler was last with us on March 7. Back then Laura was the reigning Miss Kenosha. Since then Laura has been in great great demand as our new Miss Wisconsin. Laura is kind enough to take time out of her busy day to share some of her experiences leading up to the Miss America Pageant in January 2012.

On January 14 the country gets a new Miss America. What began in 1921 as a beauty contest held in Atlantic City has transformed itself into a scholarship pageant that now takes place in Las Vegas. Representing the dairy state at this year's pageant will be Kenosha's very own Laura Kaeppeler who as Miss Wisconsin will showcase her operatic vocal talents. Also joining us is another Miss Wisconsin, Joya Santarelli who competed in Atlantic City ten years ago.

JANUARY 23RD ON THE SHOW
If the sauce is the boss then Paul DeLuisa, the owner of Luisa's would put Mayor Daley to shame for the past 15 plus years diners have discovered that most any Italian dish relies on a tasty, zesty sauce to please one's palate. Now for the third year you will have an opportunity to sample Paul's sauce without making that driveto his restaurant in the county. Paul joins us to talk about his involvement in this year's 3rd annual Spayghetti dinner benefiting Safe Harbor Humane Society.

Our favorite airport to fly out of is Milwaukee's Mitchell International and our favorite parking facility is Fast Park and Relax. When it comes to catching a flight we have been known for cutting it close which explains why we have come to depend on Fast Park and Relax. One of our new found friends is Barbara Sundquist the Account Manager at Fast Park and Relax who turned us on to what her company has to offer.

Last week we talked with Mitzi Smith who saved a fawn that she named Charlotte from sure death only to have the Wisconsin NDR attempt to have her euthanized. As we all know the state backed off once the Chicago Tribune columnist John Kass went public with Charlotte's plight. We have a another story to share with you, unfortunately the outcome isn't a happy one. Jeff Carpenter joins us today to talk about two fawns he and his wife, Lee Ann had been feeding.

 

JANUARY 20 TH ON THE SHOW
If you haven't already planned a winter getaway maybe today's weather will inspire you to pick up that phone and call Happenings Q&A's favorite travel agency. After a six week sabbatical Tom Karnes, President of LaMacchia Travel rejoins us to discuss some great getaway options and travel in general.

Back in the 1820's and 1830's Duck Key, Florida was the site of a salt manufacturing operation. However all activity ceased after the great Labor Day Hurricane of 1935 until the island was once again connected by a causeway in 1953. Today 621 people call Hawks Cay home however the population is greater if you count the guests who stay at Hawks Cay Island Resort which encompasses most of the island. Our next guest is someone who can tell us why Hawks Cay is such a popular vacation. Jennifer Dinan is the marketing director of Hawks Cay and she joins us with more information about this 60 acre tropical island.

During the Truman Presidency Key West, Florida was where our 33rd President would escape to for some much deserved R&R during the winter months. Known as the "Harry S. Truman Little White House," the President spent a total of 175 days during his 11 visits to the house that originally housed the commandant at the naval station. Today it is a museum that is popular with tourists who make their way to the southern most point of the continental U.S. Joining us today is The Harry S. Truman Little White House Foundation Director Bob Wolz.

JANUARY 19TH ON THE SHOW
Amtrak currently serves Wisconsin with two different lines, the highly successful Hiawatha with seven daily round trips between Chicago and Milwaukee and The Empire Builder that begins at Chicago's Union Station and culminates in Portland. Now there's talk of possibly adding a second round trip from Chicago to Minneapolis on the Empire route. Is traffic strong enough to justify expansion and what is the likelihood of this happening before we all get "long in the tooth." Our next guest Amtrak spokesman Marc Magliari joins us with answers to our questions.

The underwater rescue operation on the Costa Concordia continues in hopes of finding survivors. With each passing day what are the chances of finding passengers alive and what are the obstacles facing these undersea divers. Our next guest Matt Berg can shed some light on the subject. As a diver Matt travels the country and the world making his living as a deep sea diver. Matt joins us to share his insight on what these divers are up against.

JANUARY 18TH ON THE SHOW
Last month Chicago Tribune columnist John Kass caused a stir when he devoted an entire column to Charlotte, the gentle deer who thought she was a horse and who the state of Wisconsin wanted to euthenize. Backtracking, 15 months earlier Charlotte was orphaned when she and her mother were hit by a car. For four days she remained at the spot where her mother had been killed until a good samaritan intervened saving the fawn from a certain death. However there is so much more to this story so we decided to go to the source, Mitzi Smith who was not only integral in the rescue but also the one who gave her the name Charlotte.

Five days into an eight day Mediterranean cruise on the Costa Concordia Mike Kajian had just uncorked a bottle of wine at his dinner table when he heard a noise. Mike Kajian, the CEO of Oracular, Inc. would never finish that wine, instead he and his three friends would spend the next four hours attempting to evacuate the ship. Now safely back home in Oshkosh Mike joins us to share his harrowing experience.

It's that time of the year when you may find a young lady at your front door asking if you would like to buy Girl Scout cookies. Most everyone has a favorite, personally I'm partial towards Carmel Delights. Joining us in the studio is members of Brownie Troop #7263 to discuss cookies, scouting and whatever else happens to cross their mind.

JANUARY 17TH ON THE SHOW
States such as Illinois who are on the precipice of financial disaster may have been given a big, big present according to our next guest, Whittier Law School professor Nelson Rose. Professor Rose, who blogs at gamblingandthelaw.com, joins us to discuss the Justice Department's recent reversal of a longtime view that online poker and lottery wagering are illegal.

Unbelieve-o-Stivo! Handicapping a horse race is an art that most of us will never master. However our next guest is good, real good. In fact so good he was recently crowned by The National Thoroughbred Racing Association as America's Finest Handicapper. Beginning on Derby Day and finishing with the Breeders Cup over 3,600 contestants competed, with Steve Simonovich taking the top prize. Steve joins us today to discuss what awaits him next week when he goes up against the country's best handicappers in Las Vegas.

JANUARY 16TH ON THE SHOW
It was quite a weekend for the Badger State. On Saturday Miss Wisconsin, Kenosha's very own Laura Kaeppler was crowned Miss America and one day later the Green Bay Packers had their crown taken away. The journey not only starts all over for the packers but also for a new Miss Wisconsin and that begins Saturday, January 28 when 15 women compete for the Miss Kenosha crown. Joining us to discuss the upcoming pageant is our current Miss Kenosha Ashley Dennis as well as pageant coordinator and Miss Wisconsin 2000 Joya Santarelli who correctly called the Miss America victory on this show last Friday.

JANUARY 13TH ON THE SHOW
With the talent portion accounting for 35% of a contestants preliminary score is Miss Wisconsin, Laura Marie Kaeppeler on her way to becoming the next Miss America? Tuesday night Laura topped all other contestants with when she showcased her operatic talents. What lies ahead for Laura on the homestretch to Saturday nights pageant? Joining us from Las Vegas with an inside perspective is Joya Santarelli Miss Wisconsin 2000.

Ask my wife and she'll tell you I'm Mr. Doom and Gloom. It seems to me that we're mired in an economic malaise that we can't shake. However, our next guest offers up a welcome respite and a more upbeat perspective. In a recent column Dt. Steve Yetiv asked the question "Is it over for America?" Not by a long shot." Steve Yetiv, a professor of political science at Old Dominion University joins us.

JANUARY 12TH ON THE SHOW
One out of every 45 children in America is now homeless. A staggering 1.6 million children go to sleep every night without a home to call their own. As the economy continues to struggle so do families who are now facing homelessness in record numbers. Someone who is on the frontline of this growing problem is Ellen Bassuk, president of the National Center on Family Homelessness. Ellen joins us with some very disturbing information.

Apparently a forecast of 6 inches of snow is big news in our area. However, it pales in comparison to what the tiny town of Cordova, Alaska (pop. 2,300) is dealing with. Nestled in Prince William Sound, Cordovians are survivors of a "snowpocalypse," a snow disaster of epic proportions. After 24 days of continuous snowfall, city officials declared a snow disaster this past friday. We ask the question is one man's snow another man's sunshine? For our answer Dan Branshaw, the general manager of the Mt. Eyak Ski Area in Cordova, Alaska joins us.

For the first time in it's history the city of Cordova, Alaska mounted it's first ever incident command center to deal with it's record snowfall. Within hours the National Guard was called in, while graders and snow melting equipment arrived by barge. Accessible only by air or sea makes the recovery effort just that more challenging. Our next guest, Cordova Public Information Officer Allen Marquette joins us with an update on the challenges they face.

JANUARY 11TH ON THE SHOW
In our new universe of 500 television channels, there is no shortage of pundits or networks that coincide with our take on the world. Life sure seems more pleasant when people agree with our beliefs, but is that best for our country,. Our next guest, Danny Heitman, a columnist for the Baton Rouge Advocate, presents us with a suggestion on how we can all become better citizens.

In an effort to identify deceased bodies, some that have been in their morgue for as long as 30 years, the Milwaukee County Medical Examiner's office has posted corpses on the internet. Our next guest, forensic investigator Mike Simley, launched the database with hopes of brining closure to families of the deceased. Mike joins us with more details.

JANUARY 10TH ON THE SHOW
The recent death of a chimpanzee purportedly to have appeared in the early Tarzan films has raised questions as to the expected lifespan of these primates. Our next guest Dr. Stephen Ross, with the Lincoln Park Zoo, is a definitive authority on the subject. Steve is widely published and referenced in issues dealing with their welfare both within and outside AZA zoos. Steve joins us to discuss the plight of the chimpanzee living as pets and performers.

One of our guests today is an individual who learned to deal with adversity at a young age. Ron Bachman was born in 1957. At age four his parents made the decision to have his deformed legs amputated. Despite setbacks, growing up he embraced life with joy and gusto. Ron rejoins us today to talk about his "Walk This Way Tour" that brings him back to Kenosha schools to share his message of tolerance and anti-bullying.

JANUARY 9TH ON THE SHOW
For nearly 50 years Hollywood's Richard Blackwell released a list every year of the ten best and worst dressed people. In 2008 Blackwell died a the age of 86, but American fashion critic Roger Stone has continued on in what is now his fifth year listing the best and the worst on his STONEzone website. Roger joins us to discuss the worst and best dressed celebrities of 2011.

After yesterday's stunning overtime upset over the Pittsburgh Steelers Tim Tebow and the Denver Broncos are just two victories shy of a Super Bowl appearance. Just three weeks ago we talked with Jared Kleinstein about the fact that suddenly Tim Tebow was everywhere; magazines, television, newspapers and people everywhere have gotten into the act of Tebowing. you didn't catch that show and you're asking yourself just what does Tebowing mean, our next guest can help you with that. Kleinstein the founder of Tebowing.com, a website that pays tribute to his favorite quarterback pays us a return visit.

Six weeks ago The Rev. Corey Brooks made a promise to stay on the roof of a vacant englewood motel, a former drug den on the southside of Chicago, until he raised enough money to buy it and have it demolished with a new community center on it's site. Since then Reverend Brooks has raised in excess of $200.000. However a greater need transpired calling Brooks down from his roof top vigil. Reverend Brooks joins us from his rooftop perch to talk about his mission and an impending development that is going to start on the south side of Chicago in his church.

JANUARY 6TH ON THE SHOW
I must confess when it comes to the phase out of incandescent light bulbs I'm completely in the dark. I have no idea what wattage goes away and what size bulbs stay. Also, did the two month payroll tax extension include a reprieve for light bulbs scheduled to go bye-bye. Our next guest can provide us with the answers. Mike Nooyan is the general manager for BBC Lighting, home of Wisconsin's largest light any showroom.

Our next guest Karl Ostby co-founded the band Pet Lions back in 2008. Since then their profile has grown, some of which can be attributed to the national TV exposure the band has received. Their music has been featured on a number of TV shows including CW's "Vampire Diaries," ABC's "Switched at Birth" and "Greek" as well as E! Entertainments "Keeping Up With The Kardashians." Karl joins us to discuss the band's tour that kicks off tonight at Chicago's Metro.

On yesterday's show one of the topics of discussion was Stickney police officer Chris Collins. As you and probably the rest of the world now knows Chris asked out Evangelina Paredes who he had previously issued a $132 speeding ticket. Unfortunately for Chris it appears as though the only date Chris has to show for his efforts is a court date. Evangelina is suing Chris, the Police Chief and the Village of Stickney. So we asked one of our regular guests to the show, Kenosha County Sheriff David Beth, what would he do if one of his deputies hit on a speeder?

JANUARY 5TH ON THE SHOW
In the state of Wisconsin, on a typical day approximately 8,000 children are living with foster families. Currently more than 5,100 families are licensed foster are providers, but sadly many more homes are needed to handle the ever growing demand. And that's where our next guest Jessica Scheeler comes in as foster care licensing specialist with Community Impact Programs of Kenosha. Jessica joins us today to discuss the rewards of being a foster parent.

This past November saw a spike in construction employment in our area. In fact the increase in November of 2010 was 29 percent, the highest percentage increase in the entire country. Our next guest Brian Turmail of Associated General Contractors of America can help us interpret the numbers and explain who so many construction jobs were added in both Kenosha and Lake County.

No snow this most recent Christmas and today, January 5th it's sunny and 41 degrees as we speak. So just what gives? Are we in the midst of a global warming trend or is there an arctic blast of cold air and snow on it's way? Our next guest can help shed some light on the subject. TMJ Storm Team 4 MeteorologistBrian Gotter rejoins us with answers to our questions.

JANUARY 4TH ON THE SHOW
After a tumultuous 12 months the Dow in 2011 essentially finished where it began the year. Is the past year's roller coaster swings and volatility the new normal? What can we expect of Wall Street and the economy in 2012. No one has all the answers but our next guest does have an uncanny ability to put things into perspective. Joseph Greenspan, co-founder of Wealth Diagnostics and president of First Fidelity Home Mortgage rejoins us today to discuss recent developments in the economy and what lies ahead.

Every weekday at 5pm on AM1050 things can become very unpredictable when co-hosts Peter Searzant and Dan Haney give their listeners the opportunity to lip off. It can sometimes be provocative and unpredictable, where essentially anything goes with both the listener and the co-hosts. Both Pete and Dan join us for what promises to be an interesting hour of conversation.

JANUARY 3RD ON THE SHOW
On January 14 the country gets a new Miss America. What began in 1921 as a beauty contest held in Atlantic City has transformed itself into a scholarship pageant that now takes place in Las Vegas. Representing the dairy state at this year's pageant will be Kenosha's very own Laura Kaeppeler who as Miss Wisconsin will showcase her operatic vocal talents. Also joining us is another Miss Wisconsin, Joya Santarelli who competed in Atlantic City ten years ago.

 

After a 60 year run Garth Gaskey called it a wrap on New Years Day. The 82 year old man known as The Polar President of Milwaukee took his last jump into the frigid waters of Lake Michigan. His string of polar plunges comes to an end but the memories are forever, and he joins us to share some of them with us.

DECEMBER 30TH ON THE SHOW
Dan Vaccaro owner of Diver Dan's Scuba & Aquatic Center will be in our studio to discuss the annual Polar Bear Swim on New Year's day at 11am on Simmon's Beach.

DECEMBER 29TH ON THE SHOW
As our soldiers return from war, sadly the battle continues for so many of them who have suffered physical and psychological trauma. In a recent op-ed piece Robert Koehler questions the public relations machine that furthers a feel good image. An image of unconditional support for our troops all in the name of national defense. Unfortunately the propaganda machine glosses over the alarming suicide rate for returning servicemen. Robert Koehler, an award winning, nationally syndicated journalist joins us to discuss our used-up heroes.

This New Year's Eve it's Lil' ed & The Blues Imperials ringing in the new year at Buddy Guy's Legends on Wabash Ave. in Chicago. And the Carmichael family plans on catching some of the action... in our PJ 's! Now a 21 year tradition, ABC 7 will once again present Countdown Chicago and Lil Ed's band is part of the televised lineup. Lil Ed, a longtime PB&J concert favorite joins us.

DECEMBER 28TH ON THE SHOW
As of January 27 wolves in Wisconsin along with other midwestern states will lose their federal protection. The U.S. Interior Departments action to de list the gray wolf is a welcome event for officials in Wisconsin. Joining us with more information is Adrian Wydeven, a DNR ecologist with the state.

It appears as though the Grinch paid a visit to Sears this Christmas season. Holiday sales woes has cast a cloud over the legendary retailer with Sears Holdings Corp announcing this week the immanent closing of as many as 120 under performing stores. If you were to just read the headlines one might come away thinking that end be be near for Sears. Our next guest is well equipped to put the Sears story into perspective. Howard Davidowitz, the founder of Davidowitz & Associates rejoins us today. As a preeminent retail expert, Howard appears regularly on a number of media outlets including Bloomberg, Fox, CBS, NBC, ABC and PBS. He is also the go to guy in a number of publications including this mornings front page story in the Chicago Tribune.

DECEMBER 27TH ON THE SHOW
As most everyone knows Eddie Murphy is out and Billy Crystal is in as host of the 84th Academy Awards presentation. And working behind the scene is Emmy Award winner Jeff Cesario who has been called on to assist Crystal and contribute jokes to the telecast. Jeff has written for a number of all-star comedians including Dennis Miller, Jerry Seinfeld, Rosie O'Donnell and Garry Shandling but how does he feel about helping out Billy Crystal. Always a Happenings Q&A favorite, Jeff re-joins us today from Sunny L.A.

If you recently made a purchase from Erica's Fine Jewelry you are most likely dreaming of a white New Years. If it snows 6" or more on New Year's Day jewelry purchased from Erica's between Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve will qualify for a full refund. So is Erica pulling for snow and if it snows is she on the hook for refunds? Erica joins us with answers to our questions.

DECEMBER 23RD ON THE SHOW

Shawn Cash says "there are only about 25 Christmas songs," and if you don't believe him he challenges you to "try and name 50." You ask, who is Shawn Cash and why should he care? Shawn is the programer and co-founder of Retail Radio, a company that sets the mood when you're shopping or eating out. This time of the year can be challenging, shall we say festive, without being redundant. Shawn Cash joins us with a behind the scene peek at his industry.

It's not all that often that movie goers can revisit the sight of a movie filmed 28 years ago. But, that's exactly what you can do if you take a trip to Cleveland, Ohio. In 1983 film goers were first treated to "AChristmas Story." Little did we know at the time that it would go on to become a holiday classic culminating with the 24 hour tlevised marathon on TBS. Our next guest Steve Siedlecki joins us from The Tremont neighborhood of Cleveland's west side, where the Parker family resided during the filming of "A Christmas Story." Steve is the Executive Director of "A Christmas Story House and Museum."

If you're like so many moviegoers, when the credits rolled at the end of "Tangled" you were already asking when would we see more of Repunzel and Flynn Rider. Good News... the love story continues in January with "Tangled Ever After." Joining us with all of the details in the studio is the director of "Tangled," Nathan Greno.

DECEMBER 22ND ON THE SHOW
Going into the homestretch in the AFC West Denver still leads by a game. Things could get interesting if quarterback Tim Tebow and his Broncos should prevail in the playoffs and find themselves in the Super Bowl. Fans of Jockey products could find themselves pulling for Denver. You ask why? Well the venerable clothing manufacturer is prepared to give away a million dollars in merchandise if their spokesman Tim Tebow and the Broncos win it all. Joining us to discuss their million dollar promotion and the Tebowmania phenomena is Mo Moorman, director of public relations for Jockey International.

Essentially there are, at best 50 different Christmas songs, however just about every mainstream artist has recorded their own version of at least one of these holiday classics. We have our favorites and on that list is our next guest vocalist Larry Zarletti, a noted performer who spent time singing with the Kirby Stone Four. Every year Larry's Christmas album "The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year" pops up on top of our playlist.

Currently the Chicago Bears are 13 point underdogs when they take on Green Bay at Lambau Field on Christmas Night. No odds maker worth his salt would pick the Bears to win. And almost no one on the planet sees Chicago shutting out the Packers. However if by some miracle they do, Christmas will continue for the fortunate ones who recently purchased a vehicle from Sawicki Motors in Rochelle, Illinois. Ron Matula, the general manager of Sawicki Motors, joins us to discuss their clever sales promotion.

DECEMBER 21ST ON THE SHOW
Is the Christmas Tree business in crisis? Sales of live trees continues to drop and growers in response are looking to re-engineer their trees to compete with the fake ones. Someone who is on the front line in the battle pitting live against fake is Christmas tree geneticist John Frampton who is attempting to create a tree that grows faster, of better quality and is pest resistant. John joins us to discuss the state of the Christmas tree.

True polka fans will know our next guest but for the uninitiated you might remember the movie "Home Alone" that featured John Candy's band The Kenosha Kickers sharing the back of a U-haul truck with Kevin's mom Catherine O'hara. The band was real and the real leader was Eddie Korosa Jr. who joins us today to talk about an upcoming performance and his over 45 years in the Polka business.

For many of us we first discovered Barry Livingston on "The Adventures of Ozzie & Harriet. However, it wasn't until he became Ernie on "My Three Sons" did the rest of America come to know the cute, nerdy next door neighbor to the Douglas clan. Amazingly Barry Livingston began his acting career performing on what would become the two longest running sitcoms in television history. In a business that devours child actors Livingston is a survivor. His five decades in show biz has been a f ascinating ride and he's now sharing it with us in his new book, "The Importance of Being Ernie: From My Three Sons to Mad Men, a Hollywood Survivor Tells All."

DECEMBER 20TH ON THE SHOW
At age 17 most young women are thinking ahead to spring and high school graduation, but not Macyn Taylor who just graduated this past Sunday... from The University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. Macyn, who is the youngest graduate to cross the stage during a midyear commencement exercise joins us to talk about her future including an upcoming CD release.

These days Congress doesn't rate very high with most Americans and the conversation we are about to have with our next guest won't help their approval ratings. Mary Sanchez, an opinion-page columnist for The Kansas City Star recently questioned Congressional members' relationship with lobbyists who seem to have a say as to what's in school children's lunches. Mary joins us to share some disturbing observations.

DECEMBER 19TH ON THE SHOW
Bravo..."Hooray For Holidays" is in the midst of a magical 12th season at the Grand Geneva Resort and Spa. Kevin Raymond, the driving force behind this production, re-joins us today to talk about what's in store for you and your family if you decide to make this show a part of your holiday tradition.

The last time State Representative Samantha Kerkman who is co-chairwoman of the legislative's Joint Audit Committee was with us, we discussed fraud involving the states $1 billion a year FoodShare Program. Representative Kerkman rejoins us today to discuss a number of state related issues that directly affect us.

DECEMBER 16TH ON THE SHOW
Our next guest brought me back to my childhood growing up in the fifties. Must see TV in the Carmichael household included "The Adventures of Rin-Tin-Tin." However, older listeners may recall an earlier era, going back to silent movies when this iconic canine was responsible for helping Warner Brothers make their mortgage payments. With her new book "Rin-Tin-Tin: The Life and The Legend" Susan Orlean has deftly crafted the definitive history of a very famous dog whose origin can be traced back to 1918 and a tiny war torn town in France.

Every year almost 4,000 dogs and cats temporarily call Safe Harbor Humane Society their home. Essentially it's an orphanage where pet owners come to surrender their pets or strays found on the streets make their way to the shelter with so many of them in desperate need of medical attention. Our next guest, Dr. Chealsea Fogal knows first hand the never ending mission to care for these needy animals until loving homes can be found. Dr. Fogal joins us to discuss her new career as Safe Harbor Humane Society's veterinarian.

DECEMBER 15TH ON THE SHOW
Just in time for the holiday party season, former investment banker and cocktail enthusiast Brian D. Murphy joins us to help take the guesswork out of making that perfect missed drink. No in book stores Brian's practical and ingenious guide, "See Mix Drink: A Refreshingly Simple Guide To Crafting The World's Most Popular Cocktails," features 100 of the most popular drinks from contemporary to the classics, including Murphy's favorite, "The Old Fashioned."

It's been said that sometimes success is achieved simply by being in the right place at just the right time. In the case of Michael Scott, a chance encounter with Garth Brooks was the catalyst that set things in motion for the country artist. After all it's also been said that it isn't what you know so much as who you know. Another element leading up to success is being ready and capable when opportunity presents itself. And if you're in the music business talent also helps... something Michael Scott has plenty of. He rejoins us today to update us on recent career developments and talk about an upcoming performance.

DECEMBER 14TH ON THE SHOW
When was the last time you just dropped in on a friend neighbor or relative? In the current issue of Happenings Magazine professor Robert Klose asks the question, What ever happened to the unannounced drop-in visit? Growing up I recall relatives stopping by on a Sunday just to say hi. Yet in 2011 I would never think of just showing up at someone's doorstep. Dr. Klose with the University of Maine joins us to discuss what is it that changed us in the last 50 years?

In addition to being a lawman Kenosha County Sheriff David Beth is also an entrepreneur. In addition to law enforcement responsibilities, Sheriff Beth is also an innkeeper to jail detainees. These guests originate far beyond the borders of our county. In fact, the Kenosha County Jail generates surplus funds that helps underwrite other county expenses. Dave rejoins us today to discuss a number of issues and as always candidly answer all of our questions.

DECEMBER 13TH ON THE SHOW
In recent weeks The Global Language Monitor says there has been a rapid rise in the use of the term "Tebowing," meaning to take a prayerful knee during athletic activity. The organization, which analyzes and catalogs word trends and their impact on culture, said "Tebowing," in the style of Denver Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow, has risen at a speed similar to "Obamamania" in 2008. Our next guest Paul JJ Payak, president and chief word analyst for the Global Language Monitor says "Sports have become significant generators of new cultural trends... that transcend the athletic arena.

Suddenly Tim Tebow is everywhere; magazines, television, newspapers and people everywhere have gotten into the act of Tebowing. If you're asking yourself just what does Tebowing mean, our next guest can help you with that. Jared Kleinstein is the founder of Tebowing.com, a website that pays tribute to his favorite quarterback.

DECEMBER 12TH ON THE SHOW
Last month viewers of 60 minutes were given a look at the new Jack Abramoff who is now presenting himself as a truth-teller in his new book "Capitol Punishment: The Hard Truth About Washington Corruption From America's Most Notorious Lobbyist." Notorious is an understatement. Abramoff lived large promoting Indian gaming that ultimately sent him to prison. Now he's out and he's talking and what he's saying about the level of corruption in Washington D.C. is disturbing even for an old media veteran the likes of Lesley Stahl who recently conducted the 60 minutes interview. If you watch the segment, you can't help but ask yourself is our government's involvement in gambling undermining democracy as we know it? Joining us to discuss this scandal is Les Bernall, executive director of the Stop Predatory Gambling Foundation.

We keep hearing about how government gets in the way of commerce, Small businesses are working under the burden of laws and regulations that do nothing to contribute to the bottom line. Washington D.C. and it's ever growing bureaucracy, in an attempt to justify their existence, mandates actions with little regard for it's consequences. Now the U.S. Department of Labor is proposing drastic changes that would greatly limit youths from working on farms, performing certain tasks unless they are working solely under the control of their parent or guardian. Joining us to discuss these proposed regulations is the spokesman for the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation Casey Langan.

DECEMBER 7TH ON THE SHOW
The state of Michigan is considering seizing control of Detroit Governor Rick Snyder's administration said it would begin a review of the motor city's precarious finances. If the state decides to step in and install a business manager the mayor and city council would essentially be pushed to the sidelines. Just how serious are the problems and just how likely is it that Mayor Dave Dave Bing could find himself a bystander? Our next guest can provide us with some answers. His name is Michael LaFaive, director of fiscal policy at Michigan's Mackinac Center for Public Policy.

DECEMBER 6TH ON THE SHOW
There was a time when businesses in the downtown area received mail not once but twice a day. Fast forward to the present and Americans are now looking at the prospect of a diminished postal service. With an every changing world, new technology and a prolonged downturn in the economy has adversely affected many Americans and their jobs. The post office has not been immune from these factors and is facing the prospect of eliminating 28,000 jobs. Joining us to discuss the issue is Rick Gallo, president of Local 840, of the American Postal Workers Union, AFLCIO.

It's a miracle that we're even talking with our next guest. Chester Marcol is an individual that has defied the odds. From Polish immigrant at age fifteen to N.F.L. rookie of the year at twenty-three, that in itself would make for an interesting biography. Unfortunately however there's many more chapters to his life involving addiction, a suicide attempt and ultimately redemption. We sense a movie deal in the works but in the meantime we suggest you go to the source. Chester joins us to discuss his new autobiography "Alive and Kicking: My Journey Through Football, Addiction and Life."

DECEMBER 5TH ON THE SHOW
With a chill in the air those warm August nights are becoming a fading memory. However we thought we would take this opportunity and seize the moment to reflect back on the success of this past August's "Relay For Life." The Kenosha event raised a very impressive $342,663.91 making it the number 1 relay in the entire Midwest. All total, Kenosha's Relays have over the years collected over $4 million dollars to help finance the war against cancer. Joining us to discuss the ongoing battle is this past year's event co-chairs Rael Szule and David Vranak along with Sue Maddox who was instrumental in getting the word out.

On this day seventy years ago our country was stunned by a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor. In it's wake over 2,400 Americans were killed, 1200 wounded and a navy that was left decimated. The following day our country declared war on Japan. In commemoration of this day we have invited back to the show two Marines, Jack Doyle and Carl Borger, Jr. to reflect on the contributions and sacrifices made by the men and women of our armed forces.

DECEMBER 4TH ON THE SHOW
Does he buy bottled water? Please! He doesn't even buy bottled wine! Jeff Yeager, dubbed "The Ultimate Cheapskate" by Matt Lauer on NBC's Today Show is the author of the highly successful books "The Ultimate Cheapskate's Road Map to True Riches" and "The Cheapskate Next Door." Jeff, who has just been named one of the Top Financial Gurus of 2011 joins us today.

In light of the recent surge in whooping cough, the nations chief vaccine advisory panel is saying more of us should be getting Tdap booster shots. Whooping cough aka Pertussis is not to be taken lightly. In the state of California, 10 infant deaths prompted the golden state to launch a massive vaccination campaign. Dino Gallo, Walgreens Pharmacy manager rejoins us today to discuss measures we should be taking.

DECEMBER 3RD ON THE SHOW
Once they leave office, today's modern day U.S. Presidents enjoy a life of comfort and stability, a lifestyle that includes family members. However, not all past Presidents have led a charmed life in retirement. In the case of President Ulysses S. Grant, who knew real poverty during his pre-civil war years, left the presidency with a modest net worth but also with the ability to make a significant amount of money. Unfortunately for Grant, a scandalous swindle would leave the former president not only financially destitute but also facing a terminal illness. In his latest book, "Grant's Final Victory" author Charles Bracelen Flood deftly recreates Grant's final heroic battle.

The recent arrests of three dozen former and current Boeing employees near Philadelphia has put a spotlight on a growing and disturbing problem in our country. These mainly middle-aged, blue collar workers were ensnarled in a growing epidemic of prescription pill abuse. Our next guest, Richard Allen, Director of The Georgia Drugs and Narcotics Agency joins us in an encore rebroadcast with some disturbing information.

 

DECEMBER 2ND ON THE SHOW
The nights are getting cooler and the days shorter, a sure sign winter is on its way and that it's not to early to begin planning that warm weather getaway. And who better to ask then Tom Karnes, president of LaMacchia Travel, now celebrating its 80th year. Tom joins us today to share his travel insights and talk about some great travel bargains.

We've all experienced those moments growing up. In fact, even some of the coolest celebrities were once geeky adolescents. In a time when it's difficult to keep anything a secret a new television show is about to premiere. Beginning Monday, The Sundance Channel rolls out "The Mortified Sessions." It's our opportunity to take a voyeuristic trip back in time with celebrities who are willing to share private moments. our next guest, David Nadelberg writer, producer and angstologist of the new Sundance series joins us with a preview of what's in store for us Monday evening.

DECEMBER 1ST ON THE SHOW
Call it the perfect storm. Last year, in the Smoky Mountain are plentiful food supplies equated into female bears having large litters. Unfortunately heavy rains this year limited berry and nut supplies resulting in a record number of bear cubs that are now severely malnourished and infested with parasites. Thankfully there's an organization that has been rescuing many of these orphaned cubs. Lisa Stewart who is with Appalachian Bear Rescue and on the front line of this ambitious effort joins us today with more details.

NOVEMBER 29TH ON THE SHOW
Long after all the other major carriers filed chapter 11 bankruptcy American Airlines finally joins the ranks. For passengers will it remain business as usual? Will tickets he honored, will the Admiral lounges remain open and will my miles stay intact? Tom Karnes, our in house travel specialist with LaMacchia Travel joins us with answers to our questions.

Starting tomorrow things will begin to change for 8.7 million Americans who take Lipitor. With their next prescription they just might get a different looking pill and they will definitely pay less for it. On Wednesday Phizer's patent expires on what has been the biggest selling prescription of all time. Joining us to discuss the transition is Dino Gallo, senior pharmacist at Walgreens.

NOVEMBER 28TH ON THE SHOW
A recent US study show day-to-day weather has grown increasingly erratic and extreme, with significant fluctuations in the sunshine and rainfall around the planet. Princeton University researchers say extremely sunny or cloudy days are more common than in the early 1980's, and swings from thunderstorms to dry days considerably since the late 1990s. Our next guest TMJ Storm Team 4 meteorologist Brian Gotter has studied climate change and joins us today with an authoritative look at the weather.

A couple weeks ago sports writer and biographer Jeff Pearlman joined us to talk about his new book "Sweetness: The Enigmatic Life of Walter Payton." At that time he told us there would be an upcoming appearance in the Chicago area. Tonight at 7p.m. Pearlman will be at Anderson's Book Store in Naperville. Joining us is Candy Purdom of Anderson's Books to discuss tonight's event as well as other upcoming authors slated to appear.

The definition of a PAC is a committee by either business, labor or other special interest groups who raise money to be used as contributions for political candidates they support. Last Wednesday two local businessmen, Mike Bjorn and Scott Barter went public announcing their formation of the political action committee, "Kenoshian's for Open & Honest Government, Inc." Mike and Scott join us today to share their vision of the future political landscape.

NOVEMBER 25TH ON THE SHOW
Every year as many as 300,000 U.S. children may be forced into sexual slavery. Surprisingly some of this human trafficking may be taking place right under our nose. However, there's an organization, Airline Ambassadors International that is deputizing private citizens in an effort to heighten awareness and help defeat more of these trafficking cases. Joining us in an encore rebroadcast is AAI founder and president Nancy Rivard.

Living alongside one of the world's largest freshwater lakes we sometimes take for granted this precious resource... water. However the epic scorching Texas drought has pushed many Texans to their limits, forcing them to go beyond questioning whether to turn on lawn sprinklers. For a better understanding of what citizens of the Lone Star State are going through we have with us in an encore rebroadcast Llano, Texas city manager Finley DeGraffenried and University of Texas Hydrologist Paul Hudak discussing thier state's dire situation.

NOVEMBER 23RD ON THE SHOW
There are some young people out there saying that Social Security is nothing more than a giant ponzi scheme. Is it? Will the money be there when the younger tax payers retire? Our next guest, syndicated columnist Tom Margenau, has the answers we're looking for. Tom has worked in a variety of positions with the Social Security Administration going back to 1973 and most recently as a director of public affairs for the aging. Incidentally, Toms column can be found in every issue of your Smart Reader.

It's that time of the year when we reach out to the Butterball Turkey Lady to address all our concerns as well as answer all of our turkey questions. Joining us today is Butterball Turkey spokes person Kaitlyn O'Rourke. Along with Kaitlyn a team of Butterball Talk-line experts are manning the 1-800-Butterball phone lines ready to serve.

NOVEMBER 21ST ON THE SHOW
It was the bloodiest conflict ever to take place on American soil. Hard to fathom today, that 150 years ago the Civil War pitted states against states, brothers against brothers, creating a depth of loss that is almost inconceivable to comprehend in 2011. It's a war that has been documented at the highest level with numerous books and documentaries. However, even if you fancy yourself a civil war historian, there is a new book you will want to read. Drawing on the resources of The Library of Congress, the nations oldest federal cultural institution and the worlds largest library, historian and author Margaret E. Wagner gives us "The Library of Congress Illustrated Timeline of the Civil War."

Regular listeners to this show know that in my eyes, a recent Time Warner 15% rate increase borders on draconian. Yes I'm mad as hell, but I continue to take it, these punitive yearly increases. However, our next guest has cut the cord. For the first time in twenty years Justin Martin is going it alone, no CNN, no ESPN or TBS... but is he really alone?

NOVEMBER 17TH ON THE SHOW
The good new is our men and women are coming home. The bad new is for so many there is no job waiting for them. Sadly the unemployment rate for returning military personel is high. While the national unemployment rate sits at 9%, among returning vets the rate is a staggering 15.2%. Fortunately there are employees like Dan and Kathy Vaccaro with Diver Dans who appreciate our serviceman's contributions. Dan joins us to share the rest of the story.

NOVEMBER 16TH ON THE SHOW
Before the advent of radio and the proliferation of movie theatres, life in rural America offered little in the way of entertainment options. The largest cities and towns had vaudeville theatres, but these venues were scarce in small town America. This void was filled with the traveling show. From the mid 1800's until the early 1900's, one of the diversions was the traveling medicine show and it was the Goodenough Brothers Medicine Show of LaCrosse, Wisconsin, that lured twelve-year-old Henry Wood from his home in Viroqua, Wisconsin. Wood would go on to spend over thirty years in traveling medicine shows and tent shows which is chronicled in Michael Fedo's new book "A Sawdust Heart.: Michael is with us in an encore rebroadcast to share the life and times of Henry Wood.

Walgreens is once again sponsoring the Frank School Toy Drive. Last year all of the students from K through 4th grade received a Christmas toy. This year the goal is to collect enough to include the 5th grade as well. Joining us today to discuss the promotion is Walgreens community leader Bob Hilber and Frank School Principal Heather Connolly.

 

 

 

NOVEMBER 15TH ON THE SHOW
Three hots and a cot. Well maybe one or two of these meals in jail are cold sandwiches but regardless, while incarcerated, sustenance is part of the package. No small wonder when it was discovered that 1200 Milwaukee County jail inmates were still on the food stamp dole. While guests of Milwaukee County. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel has been diligently reporting on fraud involving the state's $1 billion a year FoodShare program. As co-chairwoman of the legislature's Joint Audit Committee, State Representative Samantha Kerkman joins us in an encore rebroadcast to discuss the issue involving lost Quest cards and inmates still in the food program

NOVEMBER 14TH ON THE SHOW
Looking back in history the 50's and 60's may go down as golden years for the middle class. An era when with little education one could get employment at any number of factories with decent pay and good benefits. Many of those factories have disappeared from the landscape taking with it livable wages. However, a declining standard of living isn't limited to strictly blue collar workers. In the new issue of Milwaukee Magazine, journalist Erik Gunn's cover story addresses "The Incredible Shrinking Middle Class." Erik, who joins us today says both private sector and public workers are scared. Can anything save them?

Broadcast veteran Tom Pasciak aka Tomm Rivers, who worked his magic on the airwaves for over four decades, has a new book entitled Life was a Radio: but the Rock & Roll Almost Killed Me. Rivers was heard on some of the biggest top 40 stations in the country including stints in Milwaukee and Chicago where at one point he was the third most listened to radio personality in the market trailing only Wally Phillips and Larry Lujack in the ratings. However many will fondly remember his stint at Racine's WRKR. If you were a fan and you wondered whatever happened to Rivers, he's here with us in an encore rebroadcast.

NOVEMBER 11TH ON THE SHOW
Our next guest says "When school food is simply a mirror of the fast food available in the surrounding community., then our nation's children grow up to face the same health problems that are currently bankrupting our healthcare system and government. On her blog site "Fed Up With Lunch" "Mrs. Q" aka Sarah Wu went under cover. Unbeknownst to her co-workers the speech language pathologist chronicled a year's worth of meals fed to the kids in the Chicago area school that she taught at. Sarah joins us with disturbing and revealing information about what ails our children of today.

In recent years life as we know it has changed. We are now at a point in time when it is difficult to establish what is the new normal. That would also apply to the real estate market. It's no longer business as usual and there seems to be more questions than answers. However our next guests, both experts in their field, can walk us through the treacherous minefield of short sales, foreclosures and a challenging mortgage market. Both Melissa Roach Zievers broker/owner of Sterling Properties of WI and Sheila Heg broker/owner off Lake to Lake Realty are back with us today for what promises to be an informative hour of conversation.

NOVEMBER 10TH ON THE SHOW
Recently Wisconsin became the 49th state to allow qualified people the opportunity to carry a weapon. But what constitutes qualified? Our next guest Brian Gonzalez can answer our questions. As an instructor with the Outdoorsman Sport Shop, Brian has first hand knowledge of the laws and skill set required to safely carry a firearm.

In six re-election bids congressman Paul Ryan has never received less than 63 percent of the vote. In past elections the National Democratic Party has written off the congressional district as unwinable. In recent years congressman Ryan has faced token opposition. This time around it is beginning to look as though the heir apparent Democratic Congressional candidate may be Kenosha County Supervisor Rob Zerban. Rob has kindly accepted our invite and joins us today to discuss food, the cruise industry and yes politics.

If you want to get a good seat at the Carthage College Family Fun Nights. It is highly recommended that you come early. This Friday the Carthage College Chemistry Club is bringing some new experiments to share with the kids. Lizz Zitron, Outreach Services Librarian at Carthage College Hedberg Library joins us with more Friday night details and a glimpse of upcoming events.

NOVEMBER 9TH ON THE SHOW
Every year over 4,000 animals pass through the doors of Safe Harbor Humane Society. With that comes great needs on a number of levels including supplies. In response Lori Mendelson-Thomas of Wisconsin Pet Care is conducting another promotion. This Saturday Lori and Wisconsin Pet Care along with Palmen GMC/Cadillac is challenging pet lovers to "Cram That Caddy" with much needed supplies. Lori joins us to discuss this weekend's events.

Unbelieve-o-Stivo! Handicapping a horse race is an art that most of us will never master. However our next guest is good, real good. In fact he was recently crowned by The National Throughbread Racing Association as America's Finest Handicapper. Beginning on Derby Day and finishing last weekend with the Breeders Cup over 3,600 contestants competed, with Steve Simonovich taking the top prize. Steve joins us today, hopefully with some tips.

Back in August Joseph Greenspan co-founder of Wealth Diagnostics and president of First Fidelity Home Mortgage made a strong case for liquidity. Since his last appearance we have witnessed volatility in the markets. Today the market is down in response to problems in Italy. Has the roller coaster swings in the market become the new normal? Joe rejoins us today with answers to these questions and much more.

NOVEMBER 8 TH ON THE SHOW
I think I owe our next guest an apology. I am guilty of initially judging a book by it's cover or more appropriately, judging a book by it's initial coverage, specifically by the Chicago media. The book is "Sweetness: The Enigmatic Life Of Walter Payton" painstakingly researched by author Jeff Pearlman. As a lifetime Chicago Bear fan I idolized Walter Payton but no more. After reading Pearlman's book I feel as though I have had the opportunity to know #34 not as a gridiron hero but rather as a conflicted human being warts and all.

Last week Chevrolet celebrated it's 100th birthday. The first Chevrolet that founders Louis Chevrolet and William Durant built was the Series C Classic Six, a six-cylinder vehicle that topped out 65 mph and sold for $2,100. It's been almost a century since that very first vehicle debuted. There's been many other Chevy models since then and today we're talking cars with our favorite Chevy dealer. Mike Palmen who along with his brother Dan and father Roger own and operate Roger Palmen Chevrolet in Union Grove.

NOVEMBER 7TH ON THE SHOW
To trace the beginning of the United States Marine Corp you would have to go all the way back to November 10, 1775 when the Continental Congress authorized the creation of the Continental Marines. Since then every year America has celebrated the birth of the United States Marine Corps. Joining us today is Lou Tricolli, to talk about the celebration that will take place Thursday at Bombay Louies.

Today on the way to the Post Office I saw this funky looking yellow rail car up above on the Union Pacific overpass. No locomotive, no other cars just this funky looking vehicle tooling along all by it's lonesome self. We tracked down someone who can tell us why and what this thing was doing here in the neighborhood. Mark Davis, the Director of Corporate Relations and Media with Union Pacific joins us with details.

For Becky and Don Lansing a new chapter in their life is about to begin. With the sale of the iconic "Field of Dreams" the Lansings will be free to pursue one of their passions - Travel. Since 1989 Don Lansing has meticulously maintained the "Field" so that fans of the film can come and see a film set, still intact over 20 years later. On average over 65,000 people have made the pilgrimage every year where there was never an admission charge or a parking fee. Don and Kathy rejoin us today to discuss what's next for the couple.

NOVEMBER 3RD ON THE SHOW

Next up on Happenings Q&A is Paul Meyer, owner of the largest hat store in the southern states and quite possibly the whole U.S. Founded in the 1890's Meyer The Hatter carries with it a family tradition that spans generations in New Orleans history. Paul joins us to top off our show.

NOVEMBER 2ND ON THE SHOW
There was a time when businesses in the downtown area received mail not once but twice a day. Fast forward to the present and Americans are now looking at the prospect of no more Saturday delivery. With an every changing world, new technology and a prolonged downturn in the economy has adversely affected many Americans and their jobs. The post office has not been immune from these factors and is facing the prospect of service cuts. Joining us in an encore rebroadcast to discuss the issue is Rick Gallo, president of Local 840, of the American Postal Workers Union.

NOVEMBER 1ST ON THE SHOW
On August 17th Jaeger Mah changed his residence. His new mailing address became the Vancouver International Airport, Canada's second largest, and his new home for the next 80 days, to commemorate the facility's 80th anniversary. During his stay at the airport Mah has been blogging and producing four 90-second videos each week. The adventure is coming to a close and Jaeger rejoins us with a recap of his 80 days & 80 nights living at Vancouver Intl.

In many major cities you can sometimes go just a few blocks before you encounter yet another Starbucks. They may be everywhere but big doesn't necessarily equated into better. When it comes to quality and tradition Cafe Du Monde in New Orleans is in a class of it's own. Established in 1862, Cafe Du Monde has become an institution in the crescent city. Since 1942 the Fernandez family has brought Cafe Du Monde to an even higher level. Burt Benrud Vice President of Cafe Du Monde joins us in an encore rebroadcast to share his company's rich and storied history.

OCTOBER 28TH ON THE SHOW
Unlike so many others, in our travels, most of our experiences have been pleasant, however, not everyone has been as fortunate. Every year Travel Guard International sponsors a contest entitled, "Worlds Unluckiest Traveler." It's that opportunity for a traveler to share their mishaps and come away with something to show for their travel misadventures. Shannon Semmerling with Travel Guard International joins us with details on this year's contest.

One of our favorite guests, Paul Sipiera, Curator with the Pritzker Center for Meteorites and Polar Studies at Chicago's Field Museum rejoins us today. Whenever we look to the sky with questions, it's Paul we like to go to.

 

OCTOBER 27TH ON THE SHOW
Most universities are looking for the best and the brightest but what about students who cheat the system and in the process deny a level playing field for fellow students. Six high school students are facing misdemeanor charges for allegedly paying $1,500 to $2,500 to have some one else take the SAT test for them. Is the pressure to succeed forcing students to cheat and is ethics among students becoming a low priority? Our next guest can shed some light on this issue. Sally Rubenstone is senior advisor and contributing writer with CollegeConfidential.com.

Walgreens is teaming up with the Honor Flight Network in an effort to help veterans make that trip to Washington D.C. to visit and reflect at their memorials. The Honor Flight Network is a non-profit organization created solely to honor America's veterans for all their sacrifices. Bob Hilber, community wide manager with Walgreens, joins us to discus how we can help send a veteran to our nations capitol.

OCTOBER 26TH ON THE SHOW
In anticipation of President Obama's Student-Debt Plan, in today's Wall Street Journal the publication references Mark Kantrowitz, who says in June of 2010, the total student-loan debt exceeded total credit card debt for the first time. Mr. Kantrowitcz, publisher of the FinAid and FastWeb sites and the preeminent authority involving student finances has testified before Congress about student aid on several occasions. Mark Kantrowitz joins us today to discuss the growing problem facing debt laden students.

Kenosha County Sheriff David Beth is a busy man. In addition to law enforcement responsibilities, Sheriff Beth is also innkeeper to jail detainees originating far beyond the borders of our county. In fact, the Kenosha County Jail generates surplus funds that helps underwrite other county expenses. Dave rejoins us today to discuss a number of issues including the recent arrest of four burglary suspects.

OCTOBER 25TH ON THE SHOW
I think I owe our next guest an apology. I am guilty of initially judging a book by it's cover or more appropriately, judging a book by it's coverage, specifically by the Chicago media. The book is "Sweetness: The Enigmatic Life Of Walter Payton" painstakingly researched by author Jeff Pearlman. As a lifetime Chicago Bear fan I idolized Walter Payton but no more. After reading Pearlman's book I feel as though I have had the opportunity to know #34 not as a gridiron hero but rather as a multidimensional human being wants and all.

I confess, I am a member of what Justin Martin calls the entitled generation. As a boomer I have experienced the good years, when easy credit brought us false prosperity but now the bills are coming due for another generation to shoulder, Generation Y who is now facing the economic fallout from the prolonged boomer party. Our next guest Justin D. Martin with the University of Maine and a columnist for the Columbia Journalism review joins us asking whether Generation Y should be called The Humbled Generation.

OCTOBER 24TH ON THE SHOW
If you want to learn more about the feasability of UFOs it's not Rosewell, New Mexico where you want to be but rather Burlington, Wisconsin the site of the 4th annual Burlington Vortex Conference. One of the prominently featured guest lecturers this year is nuclear Physicist Stanton Friedman, whose books "Science Was Wrong" and "Flying Saucers and Science" have been well received. Stanton joins us today to discuss the converence and UFOs.

It is hard to fathom what an assemblage of 30,128 lit pumpkins would look like. But that was the number to beat if the city of Highwood Illinois wanted to surpass Boston's Guinness World Record of Most Jack-O-Lanterns Lit in one location. However Highwood isn't alone in their quest for world bragging honors. There's another community, Keene, New Hampshire who accepted Highwood's challenge to see what city could reign supreme. Highwood Alderman Eric Falberg, who reached out to Keene, for a friendly challenge, rejoins us today with the results of their efforts.

The recent arrests of three dozen former and current Boeing employees near Philadelphia has put a spotlight on a growing and disturbing problem in our country. These mainly middle-aged, blue collar workers were ensnarled in a growing epidemic of prescription pill abuse. Our next guest, Richard Allen, Director of The Georgia Drugs and Narcotics Agency joins us with some disturbing information.

OCTOBER 21ST ON THE SHOW
The unemployment rate in Illinois is going in the wrong direction. With 10% unemployment the Land of Lincoln along with a number of other states has joined the double digit club. Any kind of recovery will require significant growth in the manufacturing sector, which remains the heart of American innovation. Ironically in this era of high unemployment there are manufacturing jobs going unfilled. Our next guest, Mark Tomlinson, executive director of the (SME) Society of Manufacturing Engineers can tell us why it's getting more difficult to find qualified job recruits.

The recent listeria outbreak is just one in a growing list of food poisoning episodes that have resulted in serious injury or death. The listeria outbreak is the deadliest food crisis in more than a decade killing at least 23 people and sickening over 100 others. Lawsuits have been filed and this event is making it's way from the hospital to the courtroom. Our next guest is a nationally recognized lawyer with over thirty years representing families that have had suffered misfortune. Fred Pritzker, a Minneapolis based attorney specializing in food poisoning cases joins us.

OCTOBER 20TH ON THE SHOW
Meghan Carter believes our home should be our safe refuge, our port in the storm. She says for most of us it's our life headquarters, the only place on earth we have to make our own. That said it only makes sense that we would want to make our home environment as pleasant as possible. With her new book "The Meghan Method: The Step-by-Step Guide to Decorating Your Home in Style" she proves that anyone can decorate with an end result that makes us happy. Meghan joins us to discuss her new book and help us with some decorating ideas.

Over 4,000 children and adults are expected to attend Time Warner Cable's upcoming STEMfest at Discovery World. Celebrating it's third year, this free event showcases learning opportunities, hands on in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. Joining us to discuss this event is Time Warner spokesperson Stacey Zaja.

Every year over 4,000 animals pass through the doors of Safe Harbor Humane Society. With that comes great needs on a number of levels including supplies. In response Lori Mendelson-Thomas of Wisconsin Pet Care is conducting two upcoming promotions. This month in celebration of National Shelter Appreciation week Petco and Gordie Boucher are challenging pet lovers to "Fill That Ford" with much needed supplies. Lori joins us to discuss this weekends events.

OCTOBER 19TH ON THE SHOW
According to a 1996 National Election Studies Poll excluding weddings and funerals 30% of adult Americans never attend church. But what if that next funeral you attend is your own. This in itself can present a dilemma for some surviving family members when left to plan the funeral of a loved one. However, there are options or alternatives to a church service. In response to a changing landscape Steve Casey, President of Casey Family Options Funeral and Cremations is offering alternative services with lay minister Patty Fitchett. Steve and Patty join us today to discuss this option.

 

From now through March 25 The Kenosha Public Museum is featuring an exhibit presented by the ULINE company. "Wolves and Wild Lands" takes us on a trip from the Arctic to the Southwestern United States, every region where wolves thrive - or struggle. In observance of "Wolves Awareness Week" Adrian Wydeven, an Mammalian Ecologist with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources will be appearing this weekend at the museum but we have him today before his Saturday appearance.

OCTOBER 18TH ON THE SHOW
Consumer confidence is low, Americans are fearful of losing their jobs and "occupy" demonstrations are ever present on the national airwaves. Admittedly, we as a country have seen better days but are things really as bad as they seem, or is the media amping up the fear-o-meter? We thought it appropriate to ask a highly esteemed member of the media, former senior international correspondent for CNN, Walter Rodgers to weigh in with his thoughts and observations.

There was a time when a college diploma was your ticket to a better job and along with it better pay. In this new troubled economy, all bets are off. With many of today's graduates, a diploma has not equated into that promising career but instead punitive student loan payments. With over $880 million due, could student loans be the next bubble about to burst? Our next guest is Kelli Space, a recent graduate of Northeastern University who is struggling to pay $200,000 in college debt. Kelli joins us in an encore broadcast to discuss her involvement with EduLender.com.

OCTOBER 17TH ON THE SHOW
In our area it's easy to take supermarkets for granted. Depending on where you reside you can have as many as three or four store within a five minute commute. Unfortunately that isn't the case in many rural areas where small town grocery stores are shutting their doors. In Kansas, 87 out of 213 rural groceries have closed since 2007. However a high school in Leeton, Mo. has come to the rescue. In an effort to keep a store in their town, the school and it's students find themselves in the role of grocers. Marijayne Manley, business and marketing director of Leeton High School joins us with the story.

OCTOBER 14TH ON THE SHOW
The nights are getting cooler and the days shorter, a sure sign winter is on its way and that it's not to early to begin planning that warm weather getaway. And who better to ask then Tom Karnes, president of LaMacchia Travel, now celebrating its 80th year. Tom joins us today to share his travel insights and talk about tomorrow's travel show.

When you think Amish possibly you envision a small black buggy pulled by one solitary horse. If you attend Kenosha's HarborMarket tomorrow on Kenosha's lakefront you won't find a black buggy parked amongst other vehicles. What you will find is Amish bakers selling fresh baked goods, butter and cheese. Jack Doyle joins us to talk about the fine treats the Amish are sharing with Kenoshans.

In publishing, winning the Cadecot Medal is the equivalent of winning an Oscar for best picture, director and screenplay. It's the highest honor that can be bestowed on someone involved in children's publishing. In 1995 our next guest, David Diaz was the recipient of this prestigious award for his very first picture book. David joins us today to discuss his passion for art that he can trace back to the first grade.

OCTOBER 13TH ON THE SHOW
Many people in need, including the frail, elderly and those with physical disabilities currently receive assistance from a long-term care program in Wisconsin called Family Care. Currently a total of 1,006 Kenoshans are enrolled in the program with many more on a waiting list. However the state budgeting process has put caps on the program resulting in limits on the number of people who will be able to stay in their home and receive care as opposed to going into an institution. Is it cheaper for taxpayers to fund home care? If so what will it require to re-evaluate the budget freeze that is in place? Joining us to answer those questions is Helen Marks Dicks, AARP State Issues Advocacy Director and Lisa Pugh, Public Policy Coordinator for Disability Rights Wisconsin.

To commemorate it's 40th anniversary Amtrak is traveling the country with a special train that's making a stopover in Milwaukee this weekend. The exhibit features numerous displays including photos, uniforms, china and memorabilia from America's Railroad. Joining us with more information is Amtrak spokesperson Mark Magliari.

OCTOBER 12TH ON THE SHOW
Back on January 1st at the stroke of midnight many of us made those obligatory, well meaning new years resolutions. Ten months later do we even remember what we resolved to do in 2011? Our next guest does! Arlynn Lieber Presser's new year's resolution was very ambitious. She set out to meet face-to-face each and everyone of her 325 Facebook friends. Back on February 21st we visited with Arlynn. With this encore rebroadcast we thought it would be fun to see how she's doing with her New Year's goal.

OCTOBER 11TH ON THE SHOW
There's a clinical psychologist and Yale University School of Medicine research scientist who twenty years ago developed a groundbreaking approach while working in a tough South Bronx neighborhood. Dr. Michael Pantalon saw it all including patients in the ER for drink-related accidents. Dr. Pantalon taught time pressed ER doctors an ultra-brief, easy-to-learn motivational intervention process that effected impressive results. His highly effective technique involved six questions that took less than seven minutes that positively changed the lives of people with addiction problems. In his new book "Instant Influence: How to Get Anyone to Do Anything Fast," Dr. Pantalon shows us powerful techniques that can persuade others and even yourself into action.

In one fell swoop 25 lions some malnourished and traumatized were rescued from eight circuses in Bolivia Theirs was a life spent in tiny cramped cages on the back of trucks. However, all that has changed, with these lions going from a living hell to something that closely resembles heaven. Where's heaven you ask? It's "The Wild Animal Sanctuary" located on 80 acres outside of Denver. In addition to more than 200 lions, Executive Director Pat Craig plays host to tigers, bears, leopards, mountain lions, wolves and other carnivores. Pat joins us in an encore rebroadcast with more information about TWAS and an update on his most recent arrivals.

OCTOBER 10TH ON THE SHOW
Every year as many as 300,000 U.S. children may be forced into sexual slavery. Surprisingly some of this human trafficking may be taking place right under our nose. However, there's an organization, Airline Ambassadors International that is deputizing private citizens in an effort to heighten awareness and help defeat more of these trafficking cases. Joining us is AAI founder and president Nancy Rivard.

Living alongside one of the world's largest freshwater lakes we sometimes take for granted this precious resource... water. However the epic scorching Texas drought has pushed many Texans to their limits, forcing them to go beyond questioning whether to turn on lawn sprinklers. For a better understanding of what citizens of the Lone Star State are going through we have invited Llano, Texas city manager Finley DeGraffenried and University of Texas Hydrologist Paul Hudak to discuss thier state's dire situation.

OCTOBER 7TH ON THE SHOW
For three decades Robert Gossett made his home in Texas. He traveled the lone star state for both business and pleasure providing inspiration for his novels "Who The Hell Are You?," "Outlaws, Railroads and Oil Wells" and his newest "I Used To Be A Texas Ranger." Gossett joins us to discuss his work and his upcoming book signing.

We recently spoke with State Representative Samantha Kerkman Co-Chair woman of the Joint Legislative Audit Committee regarding 1200 Milwaukee jail inmates who were double dipping, receiving FoodShare benefits while in jail. Closer to home, a recent audit of Kenosha County jail inmates has also revealed FoodShare abuse. Adelene Greene, Director of The Kenosha County Division of Workforce Development joins us with the details.

Broadcast veteran Tom Pasciak aka Tomm Rivers, who worked his magic on the airwaves for over four decades, has a new book entitled Life was a Radio: but the Rock & Roll Almost Killed Me. Rivers was heard on some of the biggest top 40 stations in the country including stints in Milwaukee and Chicago where at one point he was the third most listened to radio personality in the market trailing only Wally Phillips and Larry Lujack in the ratings. However many will fondly remember his stint at Racine's WRKR. If you were a fan and you wondered whatever happened to Rivers, he's here in the studio with us.

OCTOBER 6TH ON THE SHOW
The numbers are disturbing and they continue to mount. At least 100 people are sick and 18 have died after eating listeria-tainted cantaloupe. Since then there has been another listeria outbreak involving romaine lettuce. Listeria, E coli, Salmonella, one begins to wonder just how safe is America's food chain? Cynthia Johnson, Director of the Kenosha County Division of Health, joins us with answers to our questions.

There's no escaping some songs, not that you would want to. In the case of Survivor's "Eye Of The Tiger" it's everywhere. Television, movies, commercials, even sporting events. In fact "Eye" is one of the five biggest copyrights of all time, right up there with "White Christmas" and "We Will Rock You." The creative force behind this iconic tune is Grammy Award winning Jim Peterick, a prolific song writer who could, along with co-creator Frankie Sullivan, take back full ownership of the song if they prevail, according to a litttle-known copyright law enacted back in 1978.

OCTOBER 5TH ON THE SHOW
Amid wide acclaim this summer has brought us Bonnie Jo Campbell's novel "Once Upon a River." Washington Post book critic Ron Charles says, "Without sacrificing any of it's originality," Campbell's "Story comes bearing the saw marks of classic American Literature the rough-hewn sister of "The Leather Stocking Tales," The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" and "Walden." Many are drawing comparisons between Campbell and Mark Twain. It's difficult to imagine that had she continued with her original career path as a middle school math teacher Bonnie Jo Campbell's talent as a writer would have gone undiscovered and she wouldn't be our guest. Bonnie joins us in an encore rebroadcast.

OCTOBER 4TH ON THE SHOW
For most of us a feeling of helplessness would settle in if we were to discover our powerboat had been stolen while we were 2,500 miles away. However when a $260,000 boat was recently stolen, that magical device called GPS enabled the boat owner to relay information to the Brevard County Sheriffs Department. Our next guest Deputy Todd Holland joins us with the details.

Sometimes it feels as though technology is changing at a warp speed especially if it involves the internet. It has radically changed the business model for many companies big and small. Borders is out of business and Barnes and Noble has seen better days. With the advent of readers such as The Kindle what does the future look like for book stores? And how will it affect libraries? What will a library look like ten years from now. Kris Neiman Head of Administrative Services with the Kenosha Public Library joins us with some new developments.

It's a small wonder how trees affect our lives in a positive way. And it's human nature to take something like trees for granted until the threat of losing them becomes a reality and the Emerald Ash borer can do just that. This devastating tree-killing beetle is playing havoc with trees in our area but hopefully a natural experiment conducted by the Lake County Forest Preserve District will achieve success. Joining us is Matt Ueltzen, a restoration ecologist who can tell us how 1,000 tiny predator wasps might bring us salvation.

OCTOBER 3RD ON THE SHOW
Jack Rose, President of The Kenosha County Chapter of NAMI rejoins us today. NAMI, which is the acronym for National Alliance on Mental Illness is on the frontline helping deal with a health issue that affects roughly twenty five percent of the adult population in any given year. The Kenosha Chapter of NAMI is holding it's annual fundraising drive this week and Jack is here to talk about it.

Will Harold deviated from his normal sleep pattern this past weekend but we're sure he feels it was well worth his efforts. Billed as Will Harold versus the cello, the young musician is the new world record holder in cello playing, beating the previous 24 hour record by at least 60 minutes. Will joins us to explain the motivation behind this feat.

A lack of funds will end a federal program that has quietly trapped and killed thousands of wolves in Northern Minnesota for the past 33 years. With a moratorium on earmarks in Washington there's no longer the funding to continue this program. Dale Lueck, treasurer of the Minnesota Cattleman's Association is with us to explain why even wildlife advocates are upset with the end of this program.

SEPTEMBER 30TH ON THE SHOW
It's not often that we have royalty in our studio but today is a special day. Both Beth Pelc and Cassie Bouy are with us to discuss their new business venture. Yes, they're entrepreneurs but first and foremost their queens... Coupon Queens and through their website kenoshacouponqueens.com the are sharing their knowledge and passion for saving money the old fashion way... couponing.

If you think life was better in the 50's and 60's you will probably be interested in what our next guest has to share with us. If you truly believe today's candy treats pale in comparison to yesteryears sweet delicacies listen up because our next guest Jeff Havron is the candyman from the past with his company retrocandyonline.com Jeff can supply you with those sweet treats that you used to get at the five and dime or corner drug store.

SEPTEMBER 29TH ON THE SHOW
Not in my backyard! If Tanner Industries has its druthers the town of Somers could see a tank farm next to the Canadian Pacific Railroad. It's not the tanks but what's in them that has Somers residents in an uproar. Stored inside would be anhydrous ammonia, which can be some real nasty stuff is handled improperly. A highly hazardous chemical it is a respiratory irritant that no one would want to see released either by accident or possibly by terrorists. Caught in the whirlwind of emotional frenzy are Vern Wienke, Somers Town Chairman and Bill Morris, Somers Town Administrators who are our guests today.

Three hots and a cot. Well maybe one or two of these meals in jail are cold sandwiches but regardless, while incarcerated, sustenance is part of the package. No small wonder when it was discovered that 1200 Milwaukee County jail inmates were still on the food stamp dole. While guests of Milwaukee County. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel has been diligently reporting on fraud involving the state's $1 billion a year FoodShare program. As co-chairwoman of the legislature's Joint Audit Committee, State Representative Samantha Kerkman joins us to discuss the issue involving lost Quest cards and inmates still in the food program.

SEPTEMBER 28TH ON THE SHOW
There's an airplane that has withstood the test of time, the Douglas DC-3 has proven itself to be the world's most practical and successful airplane ever flown. In celebration of it's 75th Anniversary, aviation historian Bruce McAllister joins us in an encore rebroadcast to talk about his new book "DC-3: A Legend In Her Time," a photographic journey that began seventy-five years ago on December 17, 1935.

In the mid 1960's ten pirate radio stations were broadcasting off the coastal waters of England. Unlike the monopolistic BBC, these stations offered listeners an option; Commercial radio that included a steady diet of music including The Beatles, The Who and The Rolling Stones. However, a clash between two pirate entrepreneurs resulted in a murder that would ultimately end the golden age of pirate radio. Our next guest Adrian Johns joins us in an encore rebroadcast to talk about his book "Death of a Pirate: British Radio and the Making of the Information Age" which succinctly captures an era in the 60's that has it's roots dating back to the 1920's

SEPTEMBER 27TH ON THE SHOW
One could almost think of it as a Trojan horse moving onto home turf. Recently a non-profit group called the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine erected a billboard near (of all places) Lambeau Field. The billboard reads "Warning: Cheese Can Sack Your Health. Fat. Cholesterol. Sodium" and features a grim reaper. In response, Patrick Geoghegan of the Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board joins us.

There was a time when businesses in the downtown area received mail not once but twice a day. Fast forward to the present and Americans are now looking at the prospect of no more Saturday delivery. With an every changing world, new technology and a prolonged downturn in the economy has adversely affected many Americans and their jobs. The post office has not been immune from these factors and is facing the prospect of service cuts. Joining us to discuss the issue is Rick Gallo, president of Local 840, of the American Postal Workers Union.

If you are what you eat how are we doing if cheese is one of the staples in our diet? There's a non-profit organization called Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine who has erected a billboard in Green Bay that reads "Warning: Cheese Can Sack Your Health. Fat. Cholesterol. Sodium" and features a grim reaper. Here to talk about their mission is Dan Kinburn, General Council for Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine.

SEPTEMBER 26TH ON THE SHOW
During these difficult times homeowners around the country are looking more than ever for ways to save money by tackling do-it-yourself projects themselves. For many, they Ask The Builder, Tim Carter whose nationally syndicated column dispenses valuable how to advice on any number of topics. Tim rejoins us today with answers to our questions.

Much has transpired since Laura Kaeppeler was last with us on March 7. Back then Laura was the reigning Miss Kenosha. Since then Laura has been in great great demand as our new Miss Wisconsin. Laura is kind enough to take time out of her busy day to share some of her experiences leading up to the Miss America Pageant in January 2012.

SEPTEMBER 23RD ON THE SHOW
He's one of the greatest NFL coaches of all time. It's hard to imagine that it's been 41 years since Vince Lombardi has left us. It's even harder to imagine that Lombardi's final resting place, a grave site at the Mount Olivet Cemetery in Middletown, New Jersey has fallen into disrepair but it had. When Gary Martin our next guest happened upon Lombardi's grave he took it upon himself to make things right. Gary joins us with the full story.

Wilbert "Chill" Wilson may have grown up on the rough streets of New Orleans but he was blessed to have a loving family. However there was adversity along the way that made him into the man he is today and prepared him for his lot in life before and after Hurricane Katrina. After Katrina, Wilson with little more than a tent, generator an determination came to embody the spirit of a city during it's darkest hours. Wilbert "Chill" Wilson joins us to share his story and his book "When The Walls Came Down."

SEPTEMBER 22ND ON THE SHOW
Growing up, how many times did we hear someone of authority say "Do as I say not as I do." The world is made up of double standards and that also seems to apply to predatory gambling operators. If you visit the website www.stoppredatorygambling.org you'll find an eye opening feature entitled "The Smartest Guys Not In The Room." What Donald Trump, Steve Wynn, Sheldon Adelson and so many other casino operators have in common is the realization that the only way to win in a casino is to own one. Les Bernal, the Executive Director of the Stop Predatory Gambling Foundation rejoins us today to discuss this new report exposing many people who profit from unwitting gamblers but don't gamble themselves.

We often wonder why school busses don't come equipped with seat belts. However we know of one school bus in America where seat belts and a fire-proof vest are mandatory. Our next guest, speed demon Paul Stender and his team, recently rebuilt a school bus using a 42,000 horsepower engine. With Paul's jet powered engine "the wheels on the bus go ground and round" 320mph in a matter of seconds.

SEPTEMBER 21ST ON THE SHOW
For several weeks now in our backyard I have watched with fascination a confrontation play out between our resident owls and a group of crows. I haven't been able to discern who has the upper hand but our next guest can shed some light on the situation. Her name is Lyanda Lynn Haupt and she joins us in an encore rebroadcast to discuss her new book "Crow Planet: Essential Wisdom From the Urban Wilderness." Today, in an encore rebroadcast, we will find out everything we always wanted to know about crows but didn't know who to ask.

There was a time in our history when an orphanage was a common sight in communities around the country. On of those communities was Waco, Texas, site of the Waco State Home. Most of the children at Waco were not orphans, most had parents who for any number of reasons were incapable of caring for them. For many they merely had the misfortune of being born poor. The Waco State Home is no longer in existence, however their stories, many disturbing live on in Sherry Matthew's new book "We Were Not Orphans: Stories From the Waco State Home." Sherry joins us in an encore rebroadcast to share some of these stories we will never forget.

SEPTEMBER 20TH ON THE SHOW
On August 17th Jaeger Mah changed his residence. His new mailing address became the Vancouver International Airport, Canada's second largest, and his new home for the next 80 days, to commemorate the facility's 80th anniversary. During his stay at the airport Mah is blogging and producing four 90-second videos each week. He's also sharing his experience with the media, which includes us.

Last week a smoking haze descended upon us in our area. Fire and police were inundated with calls inquiring as to the source of the smoke. Much to our amazement we discovered that the origin was hundreds of miles away emanating from the northern boundary waters. We thought it would be interesting if we went to the source Ely, Minnesota and visited with Bud Van Deusen of Van Air, who has been on the frontline of this natural disaster.

Aspiring filmmakers have it rough. Even if they are successful in raising the necessary funding for a project and bring it in under budget the mountain they must still climb can be almost insurmountable. Many filmmakers have said, in retrospect, getting a film made was the easy part. Getting it discovered and marketed proved far more difficult. Film festivals can go a long way in helping bring a movie to an audience. This week Milwaukee Film Festival 2011 launches with over 150 movies and shorts. Jonathan Jackson, Artistic and Executive Director of the festival joins us with details of the eleven day event.

SEPTEMBER 19TH ON THE SHOW
At the age of 70 Vivian Vance AKA Ethel Merte passed away in 1979. Before moving to California Vance lived in her home in Stamford, Connecticut, a part of the historic Long Ridge Village, with houses dating back to 1750. The current owner recently engaged the services of a team of paranormal researchers to investigate the presence of a female spirit. Todd Harrington of the Norwalk Paranormal Research Group joins us with an update of their most recent investigation of Vance's former home.

SEPTEMBER 16TH ON THE SHOW
The nights are getting cooler and the days shorter, a sure sign winter is on its way and that it's not to early to begin planning that warm weather getaway. And who better to ask then Tom Karnes, president of LaMacchia Travel, now celebrating its 80th year. Tom joins us today to share his travel insights and talk about some new Apple offers.

Bernie Ilson who brought us the delightful behind the scenes "Sundays With Sullivan" is back with "How David Made The Darkness Disappear." In his new book Bernie shows how a bedtime story helped his son David, many, many years ago when as a youngster he was afraid of the dark. Bernie joins us to discuss his new book and a new Ed Sullivan television special now airing on PBS stations.

SEPTEMBER 14TH ON THE SHOW
There are some out there saying that Social Security is nothing more than a giant ponzi scheme. Is it? Will the money be there when the younger tax payers retire? Our next guest, syndicated columnist Tom Margenau, has the answers we're looking for. Tom has worked in a variety of positions with the Social Security Administration since 1973, most recently as a director of public affairs for the aging. Tom's column can be found in every issue of the Smart Reader.

The kids are back in school. Does that mean the adults can reclaim their local movie theatres? In previous years the summer months were reserved for the popcorn movies including the big budget blockbusters and the fall months were reserved for more thoughtful, mature themed films. Is that still the case? Can we look forward to adult fare in these coming months? Jim Jansen with Marcus Theatres and Bryan Landon with Cinemark join us to share their insight on the movie business and discuss the fall slate of films.

SEPTEMBER 13TH ON THE SHOW
Every day another 10,000 baby boomers become eligible for social security. As America ages an ever increasing senior population is faced with new challenges. One of those journalists addressing senior issues is syndicated columnist Doug Mayberry whose column appears in the Smart Reader. Doug joins us to discuss senior life in the year 2011.

SEPTEMBER 1ST ON THE SHOW
Trust me, if the cameras were rolling the Lake County Fielders would be far more valuable as a reality television series than as a struggling baseball team in the struggling North American League. Through it all the Fielders have persevered despite all of the trials and tribulations they have endured. No one knows this on a more intimate basis than fielder general manager Mike Kardamis who has salvaged the season with an intense border war series between the Lake County Fielders and The Kenosha County Fielders aka Kenosha Kings.

AUGUST 30TH ON THE SHOW
Ripped from the headlines Margaret McLean, who in real life is a former prosecutor brings us the legal thriller "Under Fire." Drawing on her years of experience as a criminal prosecutor in Boston, McLean has crafted a compelling courtroom mystery that encompasses some of today's most controversial topics in news today. Margaret joins us to discuss her new thriller.

 

AUGUST 26TH ON THE SHOW
Hopefully in it's wake Hurricane Irene will be limited to property damage and not the loss of human lives. Surely it has also disrupted vacation plans for many. Tom Karnes, President of LaMacchia Travel joins us with suggestions on how to protect our vacation investment and why it's not too early to start planning your holiday trips.

If you want to learn more about the New Orleans Mardi Gras experience, specifically their world famous parades we suggest you go to the source... the place where it all begins. Located along the Mississippi River is Blaine Kern's Mardi Gras World, one of the Crescent City's most unique attractions. It's here where you'll meet the people who bring Mardi Gras to life. Since 1947 the folks at Blaine Kerns have created not only most of the impressive floats in their hometown but also for a number of other events around the world. Barry Kern joins us to talk about his company and what awaits you if you take the tour.

 

AUGUST 25TH ON THE SHOW
We're only three days away from the debut of Grill Games. Thirty two professional teams sanctioned by the Kansas City Barbeque Society will square off against each other. However, another competition takes place later in the day. It's the celebrity grilling contest with the prize money going to a local charity. One of those teams is headed by Kenosha Mayor Keith Bosman who joins us today.

World renowned comedian Jeff Cesario who appears frequently on the nationally syndicated Robert Wuhl Radio Show will be guest hosting for the next few days. Jeff joins us with a preview of the upcoming shows.

 

Last year Madison's own VO5 closed out the PB&J Summer Concert Series with a bang. The audience loved this high energy act so much that we thought it would be wise on our part if we brought them back for a season ending encore performance. Kelly Maxwell, Kathryn Capellaro and Drew Szabo of the multiple award winning VO% are in the studio with us to talk about the band.

 

AUGUST 24TH ON THE SHOW
Let the games begin! This Saturday Kenosha's beautiful Lakefront will be the site of Grill Games, Wisconsin's State BBQ Championship and Music Festival. Teams from the Kansas City Barbeque Society National Grilling Circuit will be on hand vying for over $6,000 in prize money. With numerous activities and an impressive entertainment line-up, plan on making a day of it. Lou Molitor, the executive director of the Kenosha Area Chamber of Commerce joins us with all of the details.

For so many of us we wax nostalgic for the good old days. But were they really all that great? Professor Jonathan Zimmerman who teaches history at NYU joins us to dispel the myth being circulated by some in the GOP that we can merely cut our way back to prosperity and return to the days before big government. If we allow history to speak for past events that transpired in our country we would come to realize that just maybe Americans of an earlier era were not as sturdy and self sufficient as we would like to think.

 

AUGUST 23RD ON THE SHOW
Throughout the summer there's car shows and then there's the car show, the 8th Annual Classic Cruise-in. With over 10,000 cars on display this is a must attend event for gear heads and anyone who has an appreciation for the automobile. One of the founders of this premier event is Tony Pontillo who joins us today.

If you love oldies, you're really going to enjoy our next guests. Terry Havel, who has been spinning the hits for over five decades and can be heard every Saturday afternoon from 2pm to 6pm on "Rock and Roll Never Forgets" joins Ronnie Rice, former lead singer with the New Colony Six. Today in an encore edition we're talking about six Chicago bands who in the late sixties were on the national charts and a top 40 mainstay including one of those six Chicago bands the New Colony Six.

 

AUGUST 10TH ON THE SHOW
We seem to be witnessing a disturbing trend. It feels as though we are now being inundated with a flood of raunchy movies that are masquerading as adult comedies. Unfortunately, there is nothing about these films that feels adult except for the age requirement for admission. In a quest to continually push the envelope for a financial windfall, have the film companies degraded today's comedic actresses? Will this be a short-lived phenomenon and can thoughtful films such as "The Help" achieve success at the box office? Our next guest Gino Salomone, WISN Channel 12 movie critic, entertainment reporter and frequent contributor to our show, joins us with his thoughts.

AUGUST 9TH ON THE SHOW
The nation is watching as six Wisconsin Republican senators face a recall vote today. Next week, two Democratic senators are also up for recall, one being Bob Wirch of the 22nd district. We invited both Senator Wirch and Republican candidate Jonathan Steitz to join us together for a special two hour segment. Unfortunately, Senator Wirch's busy schedule would not allow him to appear today. However, Mr. Steitz is with us to discuss the upcoming election and the issues facing our fellow Wisconsinites.

Last week, given the current economic environment, Joseph Greenspan made a strong case for liquidity. Since his appearance we witnessed a huge sell off in the markets. Today the stock market is rebounding in anticipation that the U.S. Federal Reserve may announce yet another round of monetary easing. Will the S&P's downgrade have a lasting negative affect? In the weeks to come will we witness a roller coaster ride in the markets? Joe rejoins us today with answers to these questions and many more.