I Give Up

This year I really tried: harder than ever. I tried to get into the NFL draft.

I see how much fun my fellow sports fans have with the event - it seems right up there with the Masters and Kentucky Derby as far as off the beaten track sporting events that are cool.

I was and continue to be bored to tears with the whole thing. It reminds me of when I lived in the deep south and Division I college football had their recruiting.

It was bigger than life to everyone. I never got it.

So my list of things in pro-sports for which I have 'missed the boat' remains the same:

• NFL draft (To me it's like listening to names being called at the DMV)
• NCAA Division I recruiting (I cannot allot enough time in my life to keep up on the nation's top high-school athletes)
• MLB pre-season baseball (unless you're sitting in the sun - snooze)
• The NBA Regular Season (if you can dribble ... you make the play-offs)
• International Soccer (between the fighting fans and grueling 2-1 games ... snooze)
• The Olympics (I know they are not pro sports, but today they really are. It's all about money, sponsorships, and endorsements. I wish it was still about beating the 'Commies.'

The Hunt for the Real Alec Baldwin

The Hunt for Red October is one of my favorite movies of all times. I am an Alec Baldwin fan. As I sit listening to him on The View, I really feel for him and his situation of being alienated from his daughter.

Alec has always been one of my favorite actors ... and I pray to God that is not what I am seeing now: because he is very convincing. If he is acting, may his after-life consist of being locked in a room with Kim Basinger (yes gentleman, that would be hell because she is certifiable, his ex-wife and we are talking about eternity).

I've overhead my red-state friends scream that he is an abusive parent and hypocrite. My blue state friends say that he is a gentle man and must have been pushed (apparently, rallying for global warming makes you a warm person - do you see the irony too?)

The majority of us who live in PURPLE AMERICA (where red and blue come together) want to hear him speak.

We honestly wish he would have chosen a more reputable setting like a press conference where he wasn't holding hands with Barbara Walters. We also wonder why he went to Dr Phil? You mean to tell me Dr Phil was the best available counsel for his situation? We better not see a prime time special out of this.

I hope NBC lets him out of his contract so he can indeed further the isolated parents cause. Even now, I cannot watch 30 Rock without thinking of the incident. Again, I hope the NBC thing wasn't a calculated ploy where he asks, they say no and the show goes on - with a much bigger paycheck for Alec.

That's the problem with my Purple America Paradise: we are forced to be suspicious of everything because we know that 'spin doctors' are some of the most creative and highest paid people in the world (and we're not talking about the guys who sang "Two Princes.").

Our only consolation is that at least we're not living in the Matrix like world of professional spin. We took the blue pill - and live in reality.

Does Alec?

The 581C Bucks?

Scientists have discovered the most earth-like planet ever ... in a near-by solar system.

Right now it's official name is 581C.

How earth-like is it you ask?

• Cheney awarded Halliburton the exclusive 581C contract.
• Hillary has already raised 11 million dollars from 581C's "blue" craters.
• Ryan Seacrest is tapped to host 581C Idol.
• The Bucks are moving to 581C unless Milwaukee gives them a new arena.
• Nickelback has 3 songs in the 581C top 20 chart.
• Al Gore thinks he's a movie star on 581C too.
• President Bush has already mispronounced the name 3 times.
• CNN is already losing to FOX NEWS in the 581C ratings.
• 581C today announced their 2117th Starbucks grand opening.
• Airtran has promised direct flights from Milwaukee to 581C if AND ONLY if the Midwest shareholders accept their offer.
• John Kerry has already said something so stupid, that he is unelectable on 581C.
• Bush is already drilling for oil.
• Barry Bonds is the most hated athlete on 581C too.
• Walmart has already put the 'little guy' out of business.
• Residents are thrilled at the proposed new 581C "Deep Tunnel." Their over-flow problems are over!
• Three 581C radio stations have flipped to classic rock in the past month.
• 581C residents can name all 6 kids from SAVED BY THE BELL, but not 581C's 6 continents.
• Oprah is already the richest person on 581C.
• Scientist have already identified two of 581C's bars as "Packer Bars."
• Don Imus is hoping nobody on 581C heard about the Rutgers flap.

And the Most Earth-Like Quality Scientists Have Identified on 581C:

• The Planet's leaders are too locked in a power struggle of partisan bickering to address any of their world's real problems.
  

Guess What ... We got something!

I can't get an over-heard conversation out of my head this morning.

It happened the first weekend of the baseball season when the Cubs came into Miller Park (sarcastically called "Wrigley North") and gave us a pretty good spanking. A loud mouth Cub fan (and a Bud-Man, I'm sure) was spouting off on how over-rated the Brewers were in the baseball rags. He was bagging on Suppan, Jenkins and especially Bill Hall. He just kept stammering: "You guys got nothing ... I'm telling you ... nothing."

After a few innings, one of the good guys turned to him and said:

"Hey Buddy ... tell you what. Take a good look at my face. When your guys 'Cub' it up again and the Brewers are leading the division - remember this face ... because I told you it was coming. I know I will remember yours ..."

I can't speak for either of my box-mates, but I sure remembered both of their faces last night while watching the game from Wrigley (never to be called MP south).

Brewers Win ... Brewers Win ...

I Stand Corrected

Radio City is a big building with a lot of people running around during the day. So many people, that we fall into that category of knowing people by a characteristic. I am known among even those who I don't know as the guy "who can't stand Geoff Jenkins." I am sure there are other things I am known for behind my back ... but the Jenkins thing is the one out in the open.

For years, people I barely even know would pass me in the hall and make a comment:

"Hey ... Jenks was 2 for 3 last night ...

or

"See - he's coming around!" (this was last September after the Brewers were out of it)

There was a time when Gino even started a Geoff Jenkins collection of newspaper clipping on my office door. In fairness to Gino, he included both the good and the bad - including that USA TODAY photo of Geoff striking out for the 6th consecutive time.

So you can imagine earlier this year - I was screaming that we need to trade him ... for anything. I kept hearing from "Jenkins Nation" in our building that he was in a contract year and this would be the big one. I wasn't buying.

Today, April 24th, 19 games into the season: I stand corrected.

He and his platoon mate Kevin Mench are both hitting .350. Jenkins is taking walks, hitting the ball the other way, and actually making some more contact.

So here goes ... My hands are trembling as I write this: but the Brewers would not be in first place without Jenkins right now. There I said it. That wasn't so hard. It just seems odd.

My assessment is that Jenkins surge this year has less to do with it being a contract year, and more to do with the platoon. Face it - last year lefties were striking out Jenkins on intentional walk pitches! He can look awful against lefties. Now, he's got his confidence back - his defense saved a game last night and the boo-birds are no longer chasing him at Miller Park.

I'm sure there was some Doug Melvin intervention here too. Some kind of fatherly like talk in which Doug told him to be the leader: period: no more excuses.

So ... I dedicate this post to all those who I have offended in years past with my Jenkins tirades - at opening day, our company outings, in the Pick 'N Save deli, on Flight 924 to Tampa etc. Truthful as they were, I now realize they were hurtful too.

Don't expect me to go out and get a number 5 jersey.

But do expect me to clap when his name is announced.

Brother ... Can You Spare A Square?

Well what do you know: Seinfeld imitating life again.

Remember the 'can you spare a square' episode when Elaine runs out of toilet-paper and the lady in the adjacent stall refused to help her ... saying she can't spare a square?

Better start hording squares.

Sheryl Crow's think tank has decided that Americans should reduce their use of TP in order to hold global warming at bay.

*** Again - for those who do not read my blog on a regular basis - I am not one who questions global warming. It's happening. I am disappointed that man-kind as a whole feels so invulnerable that we think we can beat mother nature ***

But rationing TP? It's no wonder the cause gets such little traction.

Sheryl says that one square per visit will slow the globe's warming.

Maybe so.

But I don't want to live in a world where TP is rationed ... and neither does gray America (the blended red and blue America in which we real Americans live).

Until Sheryl Crow publicly denounces compact discs and 100% endorses the cause of 'green' downloaded music via iTunes - she can shut her mouth (please remove the bong first).

I once visited a CD plant in Indiana and know how many non renewable resources go into one Sheryl Crow CD ... pretty much every part of the package. Not to mention the waste. Plus, I checked. I was sent 4 copies of the last Sheryl Crow single at KTI ... two via regular mail and two via Fed-Ex.

Nice and green - huh?

So here is the deal: I won't ask you to give-up your CD's for lower revenue making downloads.

Just keep your nose out of my hygiene. Cool?

Return of the Horse

I was a little embarrassed by the people booing Carlos Lee almost like he was Gary Sheffield.

Shef slams the Brewers and the city of Milwaukee at any chance. I expected an uneducated boo from a Cubs fan. But our guys?

Carlos left because he knew his market value. And for the record we traded him for a closer that turned out to be the deal of the year (for us).

Carlos said "show me the money" and Houston did.

The same fans who buy up all the Cubs-Brewers tickets, then sell them to FIB's for a 200% profit - boo Carlos Lee for taking the cash.

That's shameful.

I clapped when Carlos was announced ... and I clapped even harder when he K'd.

Hello 1982 - Please Take Your Uniforms Back!

Sheet walks the first batter of the game. Has this ever happened to Benny?

It's those damn retro uniforms. I'll say it again:

"Don't Look Back You Can Never Look Back" - Don Henley

Are we being served?

It's the age old media debate:

The public's right to know ... versus the public's best interest (which as a whole, the public cannot be expected to handle).

I watched the video of the VT shooter once ... and wished I had not (and I have been in the media for 20+ years - 'cutting' my teeth in a newsroom in Boston).

I read with interest NBC's official statement that they broadcast the tape because it was a "unique look inside a killer's mind." In this instance, I honestly do believe that their motive was not ratings - although the NBC 'bug' in other coverage sent chills of doubt down my spine.

News people are bred on passing along information and I'll bet most in the NBC chain from Brian Williams all the way down to Matt Laur would have voted to show it. I don't fault them for it. They believe in spreading the word.

One obvious question - why not just post it on MSNBC.COM and let those who want to see it, actually take steps more detailed than turning on the TV?

This is where my problem with the whole thing comes to light.

The killer could have put it on-line - he didn't need NBC. But he was counting on NBC to broadcast the tape ... why ... because something on broadcast TV still has credibility as opposed to something on the Internet.

The end result: the killer's plan was executed perfectly. Like one of those WWII suicide bombers that took out a ship and scared a nation - he was successful.

Either way ... it would have ended up on TV. But by starting on NBC, it had instant credibility in heartland America's mind.

So the public's right to know was served. But was their best interest? Was this no different than openly negotiating with terrorists?

All future mass murders now have a plan. They have seen exactly what will happen. Most don't care about fame while alive. They want posthumous fame anyway.

BTW: This type of thinking was why I decided a career in news wasn't for me. I am of the belief that if a meter is streaking toward earth and we all have a week to live - I DON'T WANT TO KNOW. It's not in my best interest.

The media did not serve the public's best interest - once again. Which is why I'm glad my biggest choices are choosing which new hit to play on KTI ... or who should take Amy Taylor's place as our morning show co-host. Those are decisions I can live with.

15 Days Into It ...

Here we are ...

15 games into the Brewers 2007 season (not counting the Indians games here in Milwaukee or the rain-out in St. Louis to be made-up)

We're in First Place ...

We had a WINNING road trip

Kevin Mench is our secret offensive weapon (???)

You know ... this year could be fun! So here it is: Nobody asked me at 15 games, but:

• Turnbow = drama. I think the 2nd Pirates game was good for Derrik in that he looked like he was going to melt down - but did not.
• Man, the Cards still have my respect. I know they're not as good as last year's team: but I still feel like our guys are not as good. So far - that is the only team that makes me feel that way.
• Our base running sucks.
• Ricky Weeks rocks.
• Prince Fielder can make it look too easy. Sometimes he reminds me of that softball guy who just trots up to the plate and pokes one to an open hole like he's better than everyone else. Prince does this against lefties too! He is an amazing player to watch.
• Can we get Jason Bay? I don't have the stat in front of me: but I can't think of another opposing player who raises his average like Bay when visiting Miller Park.
• I think Dave Bush is going to have a big year (maybe at the plate too). If he works out a few kinks - he's there. What if he was the ace? Huh? C'mon: it could happen ...
• I am glad Sheets told us that he felt lucky on opening day and that the Dodgers were just "off." Otherwise we might think he is hurt again. Wait ... do we think that?
• I love watching opposing pitchers hold Corey Hart on base. With those long legs, he gets a good lead without looking like it.
• Ken Griffey Jr is still the Reds franchise player.
• I was WRONG about Kevin Mench. I knew the stats said last year's Brewers stint was a fluke. But I'm wondering if now that he looks more like Lyle Overbay up there (succinct swing) if he's gotten better.
• Anybody hear why Damian Miller started at 1st on Wednesday night? I missed it.
• Every time I hear the Cubs lost again ... it's like finding a dollar in my jacket pocket.
• My daughter thought the guy who plays President Palmer on 24 was Bill Hall. Have you noticed the resemblance? They both have the growling look when looking at a fastball.
• The Brewers have a losing record on RETO DAYS (Sunday last year, Friday this year). Like the man (Don Henley) says: "Don't Look Back, You Can Never Look Back."
• I really appreciated the moment of silence before Wednesday's game to honor those who lost their lives at VT. I'm guessing those in the suites didn't hear the silence part as they kept yakking - and eating their $50.00 chicken fingers ...
• In conclustion: I'm a very happy fan at 15 games. Hopefully, we'll get better and I will raise my expectations. But for now: play ball!

Third Party Verificaiton ...

Who’s more likely to start a spousal spat – the husband or the wife?

A study conducted by researchers at Harvard University and the University of California at Berkeley found that after a stressful day, female spouses were more likely to instigate fights and alienate themselves from their partners.

Source: Best Life, May 2007

Are you going to argue with Harvard and Berkeley?

Refrigerator Denial ...

Have you ever had a refrigerator go out slowly? It happened to my family this week.

Hmmm ... does the orange juice seem a little warmer than normal?

No ... the milk is always this temperature.

See ... that jar of jelly that's been in there since the Clinton administration is still cold ...

A refrigerator isn't cheap - and it's hardly something any budget conscience family is ready to handle. Maybe that's why we just hope the catsup is supposed to be warm.

After all - the stuff in the freezer is fine? Ice cream: still frozen.

Ice cube tray: full of cubes.

But remember - even during a power failure: the freezer lasts for days if you do not open it. Yes but we are in denial.

After three days of trying to ignore the problem, someone opens the freezer and sees the ice cream box leaking a cookie-dough sludge into a puddle of water at the bottom of the freezer.

Yes - in a scene right out of Frosty the snowman: our ice tray is empty: melted.

Skip ahead now 3 more days (that's how long it takes to get an EMERGENCY appointment) and we're finally getting it fixed.

Looking back: our denial wasn't so much procrastination. It was knowing how much a new fridge cost ... and not wanting to hear we had to go that way.

So for now ... the old 'girl' is fixed and our neighbors all have their coolers back. But you know what really digs at me?

The premium cookie dough ice-cream was on sale, so we bought a few extra. Man, that premium stuff is hard to scrub off plastic ...

VT

I plannned on blogging this afternoon on something radio related, but could not. The events that happened at Virgina Tech today were just too heart-breaking. I'm taking a blog day off.

Tribe Should Have Stayed Here ...

Indians host White Sox at Jacobs Field in Cleveland for a Friday Night Game:
16,789 attend.


Indians host Angels at Miller Park in Milwaukee for a Thursday Noon Game:
17,090 attend.

A Tale Of Two Franchises

Miami - Ft. Lauderdale is a large market. This means the Florida Marlins are a large market baseball team.

Yet their payroll is less than half that of the smallest market in the big leagues (our beloved Brewers).

And believe it or not: they compete!

This franchise is arguably the most successful in MLB history - right up there with the Cardinals, Dodgers and Yankees as far as displaying WS bling versus years in existence.

Yet nobody in Miami, Ft. Lauderdale of the Palm Beaches cares. Including ownership.

In any other universe, the team would fold an move ANYWHERE where people care about baseball. I'm guessing the 'good old boys' club that are the ML owners don't want to give up such a large TV market which along with merchandising extends into Latin America.

So tell me: Why not move the team to Latin America? At least they would play in front of fans?

After watching the Brewers-Marlins this week here is my South Florida version of Nobody Asked Me ... But:

• The Marlins' owner Jeffrey Loria (of Montreal Expos fame) is awful. He and the Orioles owner may be the worst in MLB. Last year he fired manager Joe Girardi in part because Girardi asked him to stop yelling at umpires. Girardi left with the respect of everyone while Loria continues to look like a spoiled Rich kid who is not grateful MBL bailed him out fo the Expos mess HE CAUSED.


• Can you imagine if the Brewers had won two world championships in the past 10 years and been competitive in most of the others? We would be talking about Brewer tickets like we talk about Packer tickets.


• Granted: they went the Free Agent way to win their world championships ... but even in most off years, they have fielded a better team than most of the rest of us. Look at those guys we just saw. Never heard of any of them - yet they all looked awesome.


• That stadium sucks. I have seen several games there and would not return. I hear their call for a new yard - but I still don't think anyone will really care. One of the big myths down there are the rabid Dolphin fans. I never saw any when I lived in FL. Heck, the Buccaneers in Tampa Bay had better fans.

They should do the humane thing and move that talented group of young players and proud franchise to somewhere it will get the respect it deserves.

Bud ought to contract the Devil Rays and move the Marlins to Tampa-St. Pete. I don't know if the players would approve the Marlins playing 2 or three series in Miami and a few in Orlando - but it would sure make sense. The combined media markets of Miami, Tampa, Orlando ... plus medium markets like Jacksonville and Ft. Myers would make a nice size TV market for a true Florida team.

Just leave Loria behind ... or (and here is my idea of the year ...) let him buy the CUBS!!!

The Original Idol is Back!

Kelly Clarkson is back!


Her new CD "My December" is not out yet, but we radio folk got a pre-release of the first single "Never Again.



If you don't catch it on the air - click below:

http://release.sonybmg.com/content.select?pid=R_bzi0CpOk6lJA7a8y371oKxm04Q6tEj&UserName=Unknown



You can also go to her MY SPACE page and her the tune:



http://www.myspace.com/kellyclarkson



So ... what do you think?

Be Scared ... Very Scared

Having been in the radio/media biz for my entire adult life, I have respect for anyone who can put out a compelling show day after day. It is not easy. For every successful show that connects with an audience, there are hundreds that didn't cut through.

Al Sharpton has always been good on the radio. I have met him in person at a radio convention in Minneapolis and have always found him interesting. Like any good radio talk show host, he makes his point and makes you feel something.

As a radio programmer, I do not listen to the radio the same way as you might. I am usually studying technique, style, and one's ability to direct a show. But this week was different. I heard the most utterly horrifying thing come from Sharpton's mouth following his victory over Imus:

"It is our feeling that this is only the beginning. We must have a broad discussion on what is permitted and not permitted in terms of the airwaves." - Al Sharpton.

Say what?

Beginning? Permitted? Our Feeling?

Actually Al - it's only the beginning of the end ... for you.

Wanna get ordinary Americans riled up? Those who are more likely to vote for Carrie Underwood than for their next governor will all of a sudden take a stand against anyone trying to stifle what this country was built upon: FREE SPEECH.

First of all - let's assume he wasn't talking about the prime-time line up on the CW Network (because someone does need to look at that...). I think it's time for action.

I want to see Tim Russert, John McCain and John Kerry (regular Imus guests who no longer have a regular radio home) take a non-partisan stand against censorship. They do not need to support I-Man (their affection name for Don Imus over the course of a decade in which they all appeard on his show).

Why is it when we're ticked off at the French, some idiot in congress enters a resolution to rename French Fries to Freedom Fries ... but nobody will stand up to Sharpton and his Big Brother tactics?

It's bad enought that I found myself saying "You Go Rosie" when Rosie O'Donnel stood up for free speech on the View ... now ...

I'm asking for real leadership.

So Long Kid ...

If you missed it this morning, Amy has decided that now is the time to leave the show and spend more time with the family - especially those famous triplets!

Thinking back, one of the primary reasons I wanted Amy Taylor at KTI was that I loved her perspective on life. She said the things I was thinking - but never thought to say. If I remember correctly, the first time I met her I was detained out in the hall and her time with us was almost up. I think she said something like, "Hey gotta run ... would've been fun ... see ya."

When I first met Amy, she was an established TV anchor at channel 4 hosting daybreak. She used to come over to our side of the building after 7am and hang with the boys. It was magic. They loved it ... she loved it ... you apparently loved it. But she still was a channel 4 person.

One day she invited me to sit-in and watch how they do a TV show. While I was impressed with the technical stuff and talent of the producers, it was what I heard Amy say between stories - or during commercials - that really caught my attention. She was very witty and could find humor in anything. When I got to know Amy a little better, I realized that is how she approached life in general: she made it more interesting. It was then that I really wanted her on KTI.

It is ironic that the reason I wanted her on KTI - is now the reason she has decided to leave the show: real life.

When she joined us at KTI she and Jason were child-less. Despite the personal nature of going through fertility treatments - Amy shared it with the world. I still remember her describing the "romantic" process of Jason waking her up at 1am for her shot in the buttocks. Again - Amy bringing humor into real life and sucking us into her life.

I also remember being on vacation with the family in Massachusetts when I got the call she was pregnant. Great - I said (wondering why she would call me on vacation) ... then she finished ... with triplets!

We all lived that experience with Amy, Jason and the rest of her family as if it was our own. There were some awkward moments for me ... like when I showed up at her house with our chief engineer to set up a mobile studio (if you remember, she was on mandatory bed rest). A very very pregnant Amy let us in - not caring that she was in a very very maternity robe and slippers.

I wish Amy and Jason all of the best as they raise those triplets. Be assured I will miss her at KTI. There was never a situation - no matter how tense - in which Amy didn't add a little humor.

Her last day on the air at WKTI is Friday, April 30th.

For Rent?

With the help of USA TODAY, ESPN and a few other national outlets, the rest of the nation has seen first hand what a world-class faculty we have in Miller Park.

And world-class fans too - who want to make sure those who are dis-placed feel at home.

Could this be the beginning for Miller Park and Milwaukee? As a 5-County taxpayer, I would like to see us find a way to make some scratch off of this and possibly rent out Miller Park for:

• Tampa Bay Devil Rays series versus the White Sox (the Rays are already moving a Texas Series to Disney World in Orlando next month). Between Chicago Sox fans and Wisconsin American league fans - they would sell more tickets than in Tampa-St. Pete.
• Any Atlanta Braves play-off game. The Braves only sell out the Series. I guarantee a Braves Division Series Game or LCS game would sell-out here.
• Washington Nationals - Cubs series. Hey - let the north-siders have the whole place to themselves.
• Any Arizona Cardinals NFL game (the novelty is wearing off that new stadium as the fans realize it still houses the same awful franchise).
• The Masters - (okay ... an exaggeration ... but at least we could turn on the heat!)
• The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade - a guaranteed rain-maker in NYC

Can you think of any others?

Point of Order ...

Not to start yet another baseball statistical controversy ... but do the sausage races being held at Miller Park during the Indians - Angels series count?

When we get back to Brewers baseball and they post the sausage standings - will these races be included? Do we need to have Bud issue an asterisk next to the winners?

These are the things baseball purists will argue to the death ...

I Take Partial Blame ...

Lips says it's all my fault. I drained the fuel out of my snowthrower, cleaned it up, and put it in storage.

I guess that's just too tempting to Mother Nature. So I will take the blame ... but not alone: .

• Culvers has their patio furniture out



• ShopKO had all baseball/softball equipment on sale already (25% off!)



• Daylight savings time came



• TMJ-4 switched out the WINTER ALERT text message commericals for SPRING SEVERE ALERTS



• Walgreen has the swim toys out

These are just a few of the things I thought of today. So I join everyone else above for tempting mother nature.

And I apologize.

Is this Baseball Heaven? Close: Wisconsin.

The crowd at Miller Park last night was double that at Miami-Ft. Lauderdale's Dolphin Stadium. That in itself is not news as it happens frequently. Except Dolphin Stadium was hosting Florida's home team - one that has won 2 world championships in the past 10 years. Miller Park was hosting the Cleveland Indians home opener 440 highway miles from home.

Milwaukee is a baseball town: period.

No disrespect to the religion in these parts that is the Green Bay Packers - but this series is a tribute to how much this town really loves baseball. I think the new Brewers ownership knows this and that is why they are willing to fund better baseball in Wisconsin.

BTW: The MAPQUEST driving time of 7 hours from Cleveland to Milwaukee is as laughable as the crowd at Dolphin Stadium last night. It doesn't take into account that giant parking lot known as I-94 through Chicago. I heard a few fans who made the trip say they just got to Milwaukee in time because they didn't allot extra time (a day?) to go through Chicago.

He's Always Been A Cranky Old Bastard

When I was living back east in the early 80's, I remember hearing "Imus in The Morning" on New York City radio station WNBC (660 am). The station became more famous posthumously in the 90's when Howard Stern showed us his take on the station in his movie "Private Parts."

Twenty-Five years ago - Don Imus was a cranky old bastard ... just like today. I have always wondered how this guy stays on the air. At least back in the 80's, he surrounded himself with funny people and you could get a laugh from the show. Today he just rants about his cranky old views everyday on MSNBC and a network of radio station. He tries to be Howard Stern without the ability to really tell stories.

Remember when President Clinton's people hired Imus to speak at a dinner in D.C. (after Monica), and then were shocked when he made jokes about getting a "Lewinksy?"

Hello?

What is it with Tim Russert, Dan Rather, Tom Brokaw and the rest of the media elite. Now they are going to distance themselves from Imus?

Now? He was just being who he always has been. You didn't know he used that kind of language? Maybe you media elite should ask the public: they knew.

But now he has to deal with what I call the STORM CHASERS.

Just like those who follow tornadoes in Kansas and Oklahoma, the media STORM CHASERS sit and wait for someone to say something explosive. Then they race to the scene of the storm and become a part of it.

People love to be heard.

What if only those who actually heard Imus say the inappropriate thing were allowed to go on TV and tell them how it made them feel? In other words, no STORM CHASERS (also known as opportunists).

Many years ago when I hosted a talk show on the radio, I used to give regular time to a lady who we always credited as a "community activist." She was an eloquent speaker and I really loved having her on the show. One day in conversation it came up that she didn't go to high school locally - not a crime: yet she used her HS days in some of her rants. A few calls and I discovered she didn't even live in our community! She lived in a neighboring community - one without the media platform she needed to be an activist.

She was so mad at me pointing this out, that she never came on our show again. Too bad - I was honestly wanting to know how someone who is a full-time community activist makes a living?

I think it would be for the better for all of the media if Imus went away. He is the most negative, bitter, crusty person I have ever heard on the air. I just hate to see him chased out of the biz by those opportunists who will seize the platform now that it is national.

Remember - some of these same people called Imus "I-Man" up until this week.

Brewers: Week One

My family and I were on TV last week at Miller Park and did not even know it. These two guys waving their shirts were filmed by FSN to use as a bumper to spots (media term for the picture they use when they are transitioning from programming to commercials - usually with the theme music underneath). We were behind them and to their left - just in line for the camera.

Good news for FSN - people are watching because I cannot believe how many people saw us on a Tuesday night game. I saw all 6 Brewer games in opening week (3 at the park, 3 on TV).

Week #1's edition of Nobody Asked Me But:

• JJ Hardy was the most valuable player in week #1. His bat and his glove made a big difference. At first I thought it was just me being relieved that he was ready to play again after such a long time off. But his stats's back him up.
• Runner-up? Derrik Turnbow. The first batter he faced on Tuesday took him deep - but the out was made. On Sunday he beaned the first guy (Derrik Lee) - but held the lead. He scared the crap out of us ... but he delieverd. His innings were crucial to those two wins. Maybe the 8th inning is really where he belongs.
• Honorable mention in week one: Jon Estrada showed real leadership and a veteran approach to the plate (please pay attention young apprentices Hall & Weeks). Also a shout to Geoff Jenkins (still not a clutch hitter - but showed much more discipline and focus than over the past 5 years).
• The organist at Miller Park played "Winter Wonderland" before the game on Saturday. Lots of smiles and laughs as most people got it.
• Why do the Brewers play an animated cartoon of them smashing all of the other NL Central parks before each game? Their road record is bad - abysmal against the NL Central. It's almost like someone paid for the cartoon and wants to make damn sure it gets played.
• I miss Darrin Sutton - but like the new guy. Darrin gave the games character. Brian just lets them happen. Both work for me. Jimmy Powell is still my favorite.
• FIGURES: I saw a spot on Wisconsin Avenue that was close enough to the yard that I figured I would save $8.00 in parking. I even made a big deal out of it - giving my kids the money to spend in the park. Of course after the game - I had a $30.00 ticket under my wiper for parking less than 4 feet from a driveway (I was about 28 inches). I was wrong - but ended up shelling out $38.00 that night (kids had already spent the $8.00)
• I know our outfield is crowded ... but something tells me the more Tony Gwinn JR we see - the better.
• I was surrounded by families - all wearing Cubbie gear on Saturday. All were very nice and several said Miller Park was a tradition for their family. When I asked why, the first thing they said was the roof means the game will happen - no delays, rain-outs, or frost-bite. Others hinted (quietly) that Wrigley was no longer family friendly (was it ever?). One of the moms quickly said at Miller Park they have ladies rooms. I think they do at Wrigley - just not enough.
• After such a nice experience with the Chicago fans during the game - our walk back to the car was not as pleasant. A few inebriated fans chanted "Brewers Suck," followed by "Green Bay Sucks" finishing with "Cheese sucks." Most of the pin-striped fans shook their heads in embarrassment. One of our guys responded with "Toll Booths Suck." Everyone got a good laugh out of that.
• I do not think baseball players find themselves in the middle of great moments by accident. Craig Counsell is going to be honored tonight in Miami during the 10 year anniversary of the Marlin's series win (he scored the winning run). He was also part of the 2001 Diamondback victory. The guy is a winner. His batting average is deceptive because he causes more damage when it counts than most .300 hitters. Already this year, when runners are on base and the game is tight - he hits (5 RBI this week alone). Seriously - if the season was on the line ... he is the guy I want at the plate (batting average be damned)
• The Crew still doesn't play enough small ball. I know it's all about the 82 Brewers this year. But we should study the team that beat us that year: the 82 Cardinals were all about pitching, speed and defense. Let's emulate that and play some October baseball.
• I am just so happy that baseball is back.
  
  

Did you ever know a kid who didn't like Easter? I was that kid.

I loved the plastic eggs, baskets and chocolate bunnies: it was the hard boiled eggs that I couldn't take. My mother used to make us eat the eggs we colored when we were done with them. Hard boiled eggs ... egg salad ... yuch. I hated eggs.

I still don't know why. We weren't so that poor that we coulnd't afford to toss a few eggs into the trash. My mom would toss apples and banannas when they were old. She was just hung-up on the hard bolied egg thing.

• One year I decided not to color any eggs. Too bad: the family is having egg salad sandwiches. Eat 'em or miss lunch.
• Okay ... I'll miss lunch. No problem: your sandwich will still be there at dinner.
• I can miss both lunch and dinner ... we'll save you an egg for breakfast.

As an adult, I refuse to eat hard-boiled eggs. But I still get that funny feeling around Easter.

Isn't it amazing how much your child-hood shapes you as a person forever.

Soon to be in 'living color'

If Capitol Drive is part of your commute, you are familiar with our marquee message board in front of Radio City.

It's History.

Actually, it's being replaced with a brand new state-of-the art color screen (actually two of them - one on each side).

While we think it's cool to have a marquee, we kind of take it for granted. Not anymore.

The new one will be able to handle graphics and even a limited amount of movement (instant replays?)

The best part is that our new system is very 'green.' The old one (seen being dismantled in the picture) was all good old fashion light-bulbs. The new one is like a sport stadium scoreboard - and uses a fraction of the electricity.

Look for us - IN LIVING COLOR - starting next week on Capitol Drive.

We Surrender Already!

Is this weather the ultimate kick in the butt or what?

I overhead someone in the office say they wished we had never had those days in the 60's and 70's because it makes this cold blast feel colder.

I don't know if I totally agree, but this I know.

I will cherish every warm and toasty moment we get later this spring and summer. I promise.

This is Paolo Nutini ...

Lots of calls to 'KTI wondering who is this Paolo Nutini?

He's a Scottish singer to whom ROLLING STONE gave the coveted "artist to watch in 2007" label.

Ta-Da ... and here he is!

This weekend, Paolo's "New Shoes" is our NEW MUSIC song awaiting your vote. Starting Saturday morning at 6, log onto www.wkti.com and give us your vote:

KEEP PLAYING IT ???

or

SEND HIM BACK TO SCOTLAND???

I'm Just Glad It's Over

It's bad enough that we have to see/hear all of the negative campaign ads every other fall. Now the local/state races are figuring out the undeniable unfortunate truth:


THEY WORK.

Both wings of the political spectrum are claiming victory this morning with Alderman McGee and Judge Ziegler both winning. Meanwhile - the vast majority of us in the middle are just glad it's over.

Here is Judge Ziegler:

"Today, I think the voters made clear that they reject negative campaigns and that those don't work..."

In other words - her negative ads were better, more on-focus, and resonated with John Q Public. Those negative TV spots she ran with Linda Clifford saying "I am not a judge" over and over again were very effective. They had one message - and one that the average person could understand (how could someone who has never been a judge advance to the supreme court?)

Here is Linda Clifford:

"I'm especially, though, disappointed in the fact that judicial elections in our state are now so overwhelmed by money that it appears that the candidate with unlimited funds is surely going to be the victor"

In other words - she needs to fire the agency who made her negative ads because they didn't have one consistent message ... and she forgot that the voters of this state for some reason don't get stuck up on allegations of corruption.

The average couch potato heard two things:

• One's never even sat on a bench
• One ruled on cases which involved her husband's company

The worst part was that the Clifford campaign rattled off stats that included Judge Ziegler ruling in his favor 85-90% of the time.

Speaking for the average slobs of the electorate I think out-loud: why didn't she rule for him 100% of the time? I would (for my wife).

TOO MUCH INFORMATION LOSES ELECTIONS.

Study the Clinton and Bush political machines. They get it and they both privately use the same old time marketing acronym: KISS

Keep It Simple Stupid!

Bud ... Can you spare a few $$ for the Rays?

Baseball commissioner Bud Selig made $ 14.5 million last year.

The Tampa Bay Devil Rays payroll is $ 22 million this year.

What's wrong with this?

I'm totally cool with Bud's salary. It's the Ray's that seems outrageous! They are a larger television market than Milwaukee, St. Louis, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Pittsburgh and Denver - just to name a few.

I have friends in Tampa who LOVE MLB and they don't understand why they got dealt such a loser. For years, the gold coast tried to steal teams. My buddy has a TAMPA BAY WHITE SOX shirt that the Chi-Sox printed up years ago when the called Chicago's bluff. The SF Giants threatened to move there too.

Could the Ray's be the biggest disaster since the Seattle Pilots? (... and if you don't know what happened to the Pilots ... you need to learn your Milwaukee Brewers history!).

Maybe it's the Florida thing. The Marlin's are arguably the 2nd most successful franchises in respect to years in service and World Championships. Yet they survive with a small fan base and always the threat of moving to Vegas (which is a much smaller TV market than Tampa).

When on vacation last month in Florida - I kept asking for info on the Rays and what the natives thought. The first guy I talked with immediately mentioned the Marlins (2 rings) and the D-Backs who came into the sport on the same date - and have a ring.

Most didn't buy the old "nobody is from here" excuse that the Braves use in Atlanta - quickly pointing to the Buccaneer's and their solid fan base (which the Atlanta Falcons still need).

In a division against the Yankees, Red Sox, Orioles and Blue Jays - the Rays almost look like a triple A team.

Tampa - St Pete and the Gulf Coast deserve better.

An Inconvenient Smell ...

From the current Women's Health (April 2007)

Cattle and sheep alone pass so much wind that they generate a whopping 18 percent of all methane - a dangerous gas that contributes to global warming.

Play Ball!

It's Opening Day! Nobody asked me but:

The Brewers lost the 1982 World Series. Must we celebrate that all year long? I don't like the retro stuff. I know, I know: it was our best shot? But we came up short. Let's wait until we win it all: then never let the world forget!

Forget any wild-card talk. Win the division, or watch the play-offs from home. With the Dodgers, D-Backs, Mets, and Phillies (just to name a few) looking like better teams: one of them will surely be the wildcard. Let us not speak of the WC again.

Yost had better lose it a time or two: not with the umps, with the players. He needs to be a Billy Martin and scream at someone who isn't giving it 100%. No more babying millionaires.

Thanks for all of the TV games. The real fans won't miss a moment of the season!

Look at when SF comes to Miller Park (July 20). Bonds may be right at the history mark. Don't you think he would love to make some noise in Bud's hometown? Get your RF tix now!

My biggest worries?

• Prince has a sophomore slump.
• Corey Hart was not really ready.
• We have to go to the bullpen anytime before the 8th.
• Jenkins is up with the season on the line.
• Cubs fans sitting next to me.