Jim McGaw's Blog

Friday, 7/30/10

Perhaps this has happened to you.  You run into someone on the street that seems to have known you forever.  They often seem to know everything about you but for the life of you at that moment you have no idea who they are!  One of the many cool benefits of having this cool radio job is I get to meet many interesting types of people.  Maybe after awhile I lose track.  The other day at the mall I was talking to a woman (about 50) who knew more about me than I know myself.  She knew where I worked, most of my family, where I grew up, where I went to school and both of my late parents.  I wanted to say, "It's really great to see you!  Who the heck are you?"

Summer is going by way too fast.  The best part of late summer to me is sweet corn.  I look forward to the Sweet Corn Festival in Sun Prairie in just a few weeks.  I  bought some corn earlier this summer at the grocery store but I guess it was just too early.  In fact, had I boiled my own shoe it would have been more tender and probably tasted better.  Well, my shoe... maybe not!

A very Happy Birthday tomorrow (7/31) to my longtime friend and coworker Amy Abbott!  I won't say her age because she's much younger than me and I think she can take me.  I remember for Christmas one year I gave her the N-Sync Christmas CD.  Somehow she still speaks to me!  Other Happy August Birthdays to my good friends Mark Stuart and Mike Nevins.

Monday, 7/19/10

Summertime is flying by way too fast.  It's winter that goes really slowly here.  I hope you made it to the Dane County Fair this year.  It's hard to believe this week's "Concert On The Square" will be the fourth one with just two remaining!  Be sure and sign up if up if you haven't.  It's a tribute to the Beatles this Wednesday.  Wouldn't it be cool if Paul showed up to play guitar and Ringo showed up to play drums?  I hope you win tickets to sit at Magic 98 table 75.  The company and food are amazing.  Mark Van Allen and Jim Bartlett will be your cordial hosts this week.

I'm actually one of those people who likes the hot, hazy days of summer.  To cool off recently we all got into my friend's "Menards Special" three ringer pool.  You know the type, it rises up as it fills.  We thought her neighbors would laugh at us but soon the neighbors were in there, too!  Good times in the summertime!  I like to go to our Madison beaches but I don't want to grow a fin when I come out of the water.  It looked a little green the other day.

Speaking of more summer fun....our Magic 98 Magic Night was a blast this past Friday night at Sprecher's.  I had the pleasure of having dinner with our Lanette and her new husband and her mom and dad.  I'm all about a great outdoor patio and Sprecher's
has a really good one.

Tuesday, 7/6/10

Here it is after the 4th of July and all of my fingers are intact!  You can tell I went easy on the pyrotechnics this year.  I actually was so tired Sunday night after a long drive out of town on Saturday I fell asleep early and didn't even go to any fireworks.  That's a first for me.  Usually I catch two or three fireworks shows every 4th of July season.  I feel like Linus did when he fell asleep in the pumpkin patch and missed the great pumpkin.  There's always next year.
I've found plenty of sites online to view of all the fireworks displays of this past weekend.  It's not quite the same as sitting on a blanket with a pretty girl and a wine cooler but it will have to do.

My brother Pat has been very cool in letting me buy his Pontiac Sunfire.  What a cool car.  It's in near mint condition and runs and handles perfectly.  I'm not sure sure if Lanette and Amy Hudson were teasing me one day when they said, "Jimmy, love the purple car."  I think it's pretty cool having a purple car.  When I was growing up one of my childhood heroes was stock car drive Dick Trickle from Wisconsin Rapids.  One of his best years was in 1972 and he drove a purple Ford Mustang (#99) sponsored by Super America and A & W.  I think when people see the purple car roll up they maybe expect Dick Trickle, Barney or Prince to hop out.  Hope they're not disappointed when it's only me!

Friday 6/18/10

So last Thursday night I took a little thrill ride on my way home.  While driving home late from a trip to the grocery store, I swerved to miss a deer in the road along Moorland Rd.  In the dim glow of headlights I swear he was roughly the size of my truck, maybe actually larger.  I ended up hitting the curb...hard...and then sort of going up over it and then downhill into the grassy area below.  The surprising thing was my airbags deployed.  I learned afterwards it only take a 14 MPH impact crash to activate the airbag system. 

Also, a hard impact surface like a curb which is much harder than say, Nerf will do it!  I don't know if you've ever been hit by an airbag and I really hope you haven't, but they can really hurt.  My side has been sore for about five days.  I would compare being hit by an airbag to being punched by a gigantic boxing glove.  Good news is, the deer survived and so did my truck and I...once again!  A really strange part of this ordeal is when I hit the curb, I could have sworn I saw flames.  Tim, my body shop friend said that can happen when the airbag deploys...some sort of Sulfuric reaction.  I'm glad it wasn't the devil coming to get me for almost mowing down an innocent deer!

I've been collecting websites since this awful BP oil spill disaster...here's a good one if you want to help. 

Friday, 6/4/10

I'm glad to report I haven't doubled in size since Bratfest last weekend.  Brats were tasty as ever and it was cool to see we broke the former record once again!  I really liked the band called The Trailer Kings.  They did an awesome version of "Radar Love" on Sunday.  if Bratfest whet your appetite for more tasty brats, I recommend the brats at the upcoming Oregon Summerfest last weekend of June.

The BP oil leak is enough to make all of us sick.  I keep wondering what we can do from here to help all of the animals effected.  They are really defenseless when it comes to situations like these.  I've been surfing the internet and seen pictures I wish I hadn't seen.  If you know of any organizations to help the animals that are hurting please shoot ol' Jim an e-mail at jim@magic98.com.  Thanks!

Friday, 5/21/10

Let the fasting begin as we get ready to consume 209,000 brats next weekend at "World's Largest Bratfest."  I'll think I'll skip a few meals and lay off the desserts for a few days!  Maybe some Tab, too. If they still make it.  I hope to see you there.  With all of those brats, I should be able to save you at least one.

I've never studied the world of metaphysics much but it's always fascinated me.  Maybe there is something to it, though.  The other night I had a dream about a girlfriend from 20+ years ago.  She was one of the good ones that got away!  Oddly enough I received an e-mail
from her!  She's all happily married but sometimes listens to Magic online and just wanted to say "hi."  It's weird how we dream things that come to fruition.  I hope soon I dream I win the lottery or that Sandra Bullock will be e-mailing me!  More importantly I hope I don't dream I get hit by lightning or get hit by a bus!

Wish me well as I try and resurrect my Yamaha motorcycle from storage.  It's been there for a few years and in need of some serious TLC.  I found a place online where I can get parts for a very reasonable price.  It should be fun.  I miss riding it especially when it gets about 65
mpg.  My truck is not quite that good!

Friday, 5/7/10

I recently had the pleasure of meeting Karen Thompson, longtime Magic 98 listener.  Karen works in the office at Madison's Forest Hill Cemetery.  Karen won our "Flowers Just Because" contest.  While I was there, I couldn't resist asking her if it would be possible to find where my great grandfather, Stewart McGaw was buried.  For several years, I had heard he was buried there but never quite knew where, and my relatives weren't quite sure where either.  My dearly departed relatives take up real estate all over Dane County.   Some are in the Town of Westport and many are in Oregon.  Karen was more than happy to help and within seconds on her computer, found my great grandfather's location.  I learned he had a son named James McGaw who died at the ripe ol' age of 26.  Yikes!  I wonder if he had high blood pressure, too.  He's also there at Forest Hill Cemetery...which means there's a headstone with my name on it!  I'm thinking maybe I could take a picture of the headstone, block out the dates, mail it to my creditors and get rid of them once and for all.  Thanks so much, Karen Thompson for the history lesson and thanks so much great grandfather Stewart for coming here from Ireland way back in the 1800's...wish I would've known you.  He died in 1922.  He's the guy who settled on the farm that's now Fitchburg's McGaw Park. 

Friday, 4/23/10

I just came back from my first full physical exam in several years.  Last year my hair stylist, my dentist and my former doctor all retired.  Not because of me, I hope.  It's a wonder I could leave the house without anybody available for my regularly scheduled maintenance!  Everything turned out just fine and it appears I have a few remaining miles left in me.  My new doctor is really cool.  Dr. Perry is her name.  She has a good sense of humor which is required when dealing with me.  Last December when I broke my arm they discovered my blood pressure was running way too high.  Dr. Perry has given me some pills and in just three months gotten it down to a normal level.  My ears have stopped ringing now.  I thought that was from playing my headphones too loudly.  Just learned today my heart is strong and my ears and eyes are good.  All other factory installed organs in good shape, too!  Dr. Perry rocks.  If you're looking for a new family doctor I'd recommend her highly.  She's at the U.W. Health Clinic in Fitchburg on Cheryl Drive.

I'm not on the air this Saturday but will be listening to our "Saturday at the 70s - One Hit Wonders" special.  I admit, some were cheesy but I like many.  Like...Born To Be Alive...Patrick Hernandez, Kung Fu Fighting...Carl Douglas, Driver's Seat...Sniff 'N' The Tears, just to name a few.  I was also surprised at some singers that ended up being "one hit wonders" when they seemed quite talented.  Thelma Houston, Ami Stewart, Eruption...I
Can't Stand The Rain.  It should be a fun show.  I hope you enjoy and have a good weekend.

Monday, 4/5/10

Wow, that vacation went quickly!  I guess they always do.  I owe Gary Cannalte lunch since the weather was nice nearly every single day I was on vacation.  I was surprised to get back and learn we're still doing "Magic 98 from A to Z." I didn't realize how many songs we actually have! 

I hope you didn't experience too many crank phone calls, whoopee cushions or handshake buzzers on April Fool's Day last Thursday.  A friend of mine left me sort of a lame April Fool's day prank by phone which I thought was really stupid!  I played it for my brother Dennis who thought it was even more stupid.  My favorite prank yet was years ago here at the station when we filled a former co-worker's desk drawer with those Styrofoam packing worms.  Timeless fun!

It's nice to be back from vacation.  Good luck with the Magic 98 Birthday Game!  I'm curious what happens with "A-Z" when we get to the letter "x."  Either "Xanadu" or a xylophone solo by Amy Hudson.

Wednesday, 3/24/10

I'm with Bob Bonner on this one.  What kind of idiot would mess around on Sandra Bullock?  I'd marry her tomorrow. It's not just her beauty, it's that she's really funny and smart.   I'm amused that Betty White wants to beat up Sandra's estranged husband.  Go Betty!  I think she could take him!  I think she could take me.

I enjoyed myself last week as Magic 98 payed some bills.  Times are tough and I hear we had more entries than ever.  Our pleasure to treat the best listeners in the world.

I've become a big fan of the the Discovery Channel's "Dirty Jobs."  I kept seeing Mike Rowe (the host) on all of the Ford commercials and I asked my brother, who is that guy?  He turned me on to the show and now I watch it all the time. It's pretty funny - I just hope Mike doesn't get himself hurt or killed.  Recently, he was up about 100 stories with a high-rise window washing crew.  I'll keep my cushy radio job, thank you very much.

I received the "you're all healed" word from my doctor last week at University Hospital.  My experience with the whole staff there was 110% excellent.  My friend and former boss Bill Vancil would probably agree.  He just spent some time there, too, for a liver transplant.  Get well soon, BV!   Many thanks to Dr. Tieding and staff for taking good care of me.  Arm is feeling pretty good.  Not quite 100% there.  Betty White could still take me in arm wrestling, too! I've been lifting weights to get my strength back.  I'm kind of getting into it.  Suffering daily but getting into it.  Very soon I just might be all buff and ripped and you won't recognize me!  Then again it could take awhile.

I'll be on my spring break next week so have a Happy Easter!  Easter candy is good.  So much for "buff and ripped." If your children find any cash while hunting for eggs on the ground it's probably mine and they should send it here to Magic 98. Thank you!

Monday, 3/8/10

I usually find most award shows a great time to get some quality nap time.  I was most pleased, however, to see Sandra Bullock win at the Academy Awards on Sunday night.  I've had a major crush on her for several years now. I didn't see the movie "Blindside" but heard all kinds of good reviews. I was also happy to see Jeff Bridges win for "Crazy Heart."  Another one I'm dying to see.  I guess Netflix will be getting a whole bunch of business from me. I don't think Jeff Bridges has any bad movies.  Yes, even "Starman", which I found in the Shopko $4.99 bin, wasn't that bad.

During all the medical treatment I've received for my broken arm, I learned I have a good strong heart.  How cool! A good strong ticker with no sign of blockages. Maybe I haven't consumed as many fast food french fries as I thought I had!  I really want to build on this good heart and starting biking and walking like I used to back in the day.  I used to walk about two-three miles a day and at one time bike about eight miles.  I should probably very gradually build back up to that so I don't end up "toes up" in the ditch somewhere!

I've learned a cool guy named Larry Werner reads my blog all the time!
So, hi Larry.  Get back to work.

Monday, 2/22/10

I think I'm nearly healed.  Last Friday I had my second (and final) cast removed.  I have some sort of Velcro splint deal I'm wearing now for another month.  It's way more comfortable than the cast but the the Velcro tends to pick up stray things like assorted clothes and things from the store.  I need to be careful!  My doctor said my arm healed well during the last 30 days.  I attribute it to my low-fat Dean's chocolate milk and clean living!  I had all sorts of weird sensations like that tingling feeling when your arm or leg fall asleep.  My doctor said that was the nerves and everything reconnecting.  The human body is an amazing system. Yes, even mine!

I made a trip to Lake Geneva on Saturday on some business and to visit some old friends.  When I was going to school in Kenosha I used to drive through Lake Geneva on my trip back home to Madison.  A couple of my buddies from school worked part-time at a cool little Lake Geneva radio station called WMIR AM-1550.  It  was an AM music station at the time playing the hits and giving the hog futures.  Adam Ant and the obits.  It was a different time in radio.   I had a chance to work there in 1982 but passed on it for some reason I don't remember.  Since the 80's it's been all sports and all religion and all dead air for awhile.  I was sad to see it now near its end.  The building is all boarded up and the parking lot is deserted.  I hear the current owners want to move the frequency to the Chicago area.  Good career move not taking that job back in 1982!

Here's a typical "Jim Move."  I recently took my good friend Michelle to the Tim McGraw concert at the Coliseum.  Somehow I ended up with tickets that weren't side-by-side but one behind the other!  Michelle took it stride and added, "This is great Jim and maybe we can
go to dinner later and sit at separate tables."  Call me Mr. Smooth.

Monday, 2/8/10

Our upcoming Valentine's Day visits always make me think of the first time I bought a girl a box of candy.  It wasn't a big box of candy but it was a box of candy nonetheless!  Her name was Jolynn.  I grew up in sort of a rural area at the time.  Miles and miles of cornfields and even more cows.  Jolynn was the first real girl in the neighborhood so she stood out right away.  Very cute blond and kind of tall.  Her sister Pam was good friends with my sister Jean so I thought I had an angle.  Not so much, really.  I gave her candy and a few days later I saw her at the P.T.O "Fun Night" at the junior high school gym and she punched me.  Maybe the candy wasn't very good.  Maybe I hadn't quite perfected my Don Juan Demarco skills at age 11.  Later on Kara moved into the neighborhood.  I don't think she ever punched me.  Then Marjorie moved into the neighborhood.  She dug me!  In fact, she was my girlfriend for the summer of 1976.  Marjorie never punched me either but she should have after I dumped her off of my Suzuki dirt bike.  Marjorie is still cool.  This Friday I'm looking forward to bringing you a heart-shaped pizza certificate.  If you're going to punch me let me know ahead of time so I can bring a stunt person.

Thursday, 2/4/10

My co-workers here at Magic 98 have made my job really easy this week for "5 at 5."  They've been picking all of their favorites for the theme this week.  Friday, I get to take my turn!  Before you ask me why I picked the five I did, let me explain.  "Moonlight Feels Right" by Starbuck...as a Cancer, they say I'm strongly effected by the moon.  Maybe so since I seem to love most songs about the moon!  "Moondance," "Dancing In The Moonlight" and "Moonlight Feels Right."  It also takes me back to 1976.  Other than my Grandma dying, it was one of my favorite summers of my life.  Great songs that year, too!  John Mellencamp "Crumblin' Down" was easy.  John is one of my favorite singers ever.  I don't think he has any bad songs.  I had a chance to meet him in 2001 and I was so nervous I chickened out on the spot!  Kid Rock's "All Summer Long" has a way of making me think summer even when it's 40 below outside.  My friend Angela (from the old Pearl's, where we both worked) was into him before he hit it big so I heard him long ago and liked him then already.  The "Sweet Home Alabama" and "Werewolves of London" samples don't hurt either. Gladys Knight and Mariah Carey are two of my favorite female singers.  If I left them out of my favorites lineup, I'd be too ashamed to go on the air!  I hope you enjoyed what we played all this week. 

Tuesday, 1/26/10

It's been one month since Christmas and finally got the Christmas tree down, thanks to my brother Pat.  It's hard to do some things without my right arm working. I'm getting used to it though.  I've become very skilled at writing with my left hand. I haven't become nearly as skilled at brushing my teeth or shaving with my left hand.  I've brushed my teeth and eyes a couple of times and nearly shaved off my lips more than once.  My arm is healing and I
should have this cast off in about three weeks.  They tell me once the cast comes off my
left arm will look like Popeye's arm but my right arm will look more like Olive Oil's arm. Nice! I might be in line for some therapy.  One cool thing about this arm experience is I have a new regular doctor now.  Her name is Dr. Perry.  She's real nice and has a good sense of humor.  That good sense of humor will come in handy when I get my physical this spring.

The final week of "The Tonight Show" was some of the funniest television in years.  Funny but yet very sad.  I think the network really gave Conan the shaft.  Seven months isn't really much time to develop an audience. Conan's farewell speech on Friday really showed a very sincere guy.  I hope he lands on his feet.  I've always been more of a "Letterman" viewer than "Leno" viewer so I probably won't watch much of Jay anyway. I really think Craig Ferguson is one of the funniest late night hosts.  I wonder if he would take Letterman's spot if Dave retires.

Monday, 1/11/10

It's hard to believe I made it to this age and have never broken a single bone!  Even more amazing is the way my cousin Rusty and I played while growing up and never broke a single bone.  Dirt bikes and climbing up to way too high places and other assorted dangerous adventures...it's actually a wonder I'm still here!  My "no broken bone record" sadly ended on Christmas Eve when I fell very hard on an icy sidewalk. I made up for no broken bones by breaking my arm in two places.  It was early in the morning and I managed to drive myself to Meriter Hospital.  It's the closest to my house and since I was born there way back when I figured they might still have the blueprints!  I've never experienced pain like this
before.  I don't do well with pain and hope it subsides quickly.  The most painful part was at the ER when they did a process called "resetting the bone." I think next time I'll just tell them to saw my arm off and avoid that ordeal.  Other than the pain, the whole experience has been quite educational.  I've met some really nice doctors and nurses at Meriter and UW Hospitals. I also have a green cast.  They make them out of  fiberglass now instead of plaster. Everybody at the station has been very nice.  Thanks to them and all of my friends and family for helping deal with this.  I'm getting really good at using my left hand for everything since as luck would have it I broke my right arm and I'm right-handed!

Monday, 12/14/09

I was not surprised when we were able to top last year's Holiday Wish Fundraiser amount this past Friday.  Magic 98 listeners (like yourself) are truly the kindest!  Thank you!

What does surprise me is the amount of snow I was able to shovel this weekend and not have a heart attack!  Seriously, I shoveled for three hours after work on Saturday night and again for several hours on Sunday. No chest pains so far.  I guess I'm in better shape than I thought. 

Christmas is really coming on quickly this year.  I'm sure you've noticed.  I actually put my tree up yesterday.  All the lights work and it looks really nice! My cat Target hasn't climbed it yet but I know he will.  He likes to sleep underneath it.  He was once a stray cat so I think it reminds him of the wilderness.  I found this really unusual angel for the top at Walgreen's
a few years ago.  She moves her arms back in forth likes she's trying to fly off the top since it's highly uncomfortable on top of  the tree or she's clapping to the funky beat.  I think it would be fun to find a miniature accordion for her to play and see if anyone notices!

I learned something really cool this weekend.  While watching "Christmas Vacation" with Chevy Chase I thought, "Man, the voice on the theme song that opens the movie sounds really familiar."  It turns out it's Mavis Staples of the Staple Singers.  Saturday when I get to work the first song I play on "Saturday at the 70's" is one by the Staple Singers.

Tuesday, 12/1/09

I think we need to come up with some "Thanksgiving Leftover Ideas" on our Magic 98 recipe page. All that turkey tends to linger for a few days! I hope your Thanksgiving weekend was fun and that all of your clothes still fit. Hard to believe December 1st is this week already. December 1st and no major snowfall yet. How strange considering where we live. You'll recall December 1st, 2007, was the beginning of our worst winter on record. I never fear winter much anymore since my truck will go through the deepest snow, maybe even quicksand! I was considering a set of new treads all the way around but I'll wait and see considering how easy it's been so far.

Tuesday, 11/17/09

I can't believe it's almost Thanksgiving! It seems like I was just digging into the mini Snickers Halloween candy. The station Gods here at Magic 98 have given me a very easy Thanksgiving week. I'm doing the Pat & Bob show and playing the part of Pat next Monday, Tuesday and Friday. Other than that, what an easy week for Jim. I hope to still fit on the radio by the Friday after Thanksgiving! I do like the pumpkin pie and even the leftovers. Perkin's has come up with a great invention. Pumpkin pie with the whipped cream already built into the pie...the greatest thing since cable TV.

In other holiday news, they've already powered up the lights at "Holiday Fantasy In Lights" at Olin-Turville park. It has a different glow this year since they've gone with all LED lights. A little gift for Mother Earth this year. I checked it out already since it's not far from my place. I usually check it out several times each year. I remember the very first one at Warner Park some 20 years ago.

Along with raccoons, stray cats and other critters I try very hard to avoid while driving home, I now need to watch out for a large buck in my neighborhood. I've yet to see him but my brother John says he's roughly the size of an elk or moose! Great. Sounds like he could really mess up a paint job. I'll just play my truck stereo loudly on my way home and hopefully scare him away.

Monday, 11/2/09

How unusual. I ended up way with way more candy Halloween night than I thought I would. Perhaps it was no accident! It seems to vary at my place. Some years the little monsters will swarm the neighborhood and other years just a few. Halloween night was just a few. I hope you had a fun Halloween. I heard the annual "Freak Fest" was a big success without many problems. I heard somebody made a costume of that phony kid in the Colorado balloon hoax. That's creative. I was playing the Halloween hits from the Magic 98 crypt Halloween night from 6p-9p. Good times, good times.

When I got home I found some really creepy vampire movie on TV. Actually it was a female vampire! She was really pretty but just so moody! It freaked me out and I tried to just fall asleep but couldn't after all the leftover mini Snickers I ate.

Have an awesome week. I'm out of here until November 9th. It's amazing how much vacation time I've accumulated for staying here so long. I'm going to take a couple of day trips and also see a couple of movies. I've heard all good things about Michael Jackson's "This Is It" movie. I guess it's only here for a couple of weeks.

I hope I don't get lost while I'm on vacation. This story is so me. At Saturday's Badger game I had to park several blocks from the stadium. When I went to find my truck, I couldn't find it. It turns out I had parked on a different street than I thought I had. I think it's too soon for senior moments but it sure was a weird feeling. I'll see you in a week. That is, if can find my way back to the radio station!

Wednesday, 10/21/09

If you crave Halloween fun this season or maybe you have a date you never want to see again, I have the place for you: Olin-Turville Park and the "Horror In The Dark" Haunted House. It's hosted by the Madison Metro Jaycees. Every year they donate proceeds to a local charity. I took my friend "Fly Girl Paige" there last Friday for a good scare. I hope she'll be alright! She was getting some color back and had stopped screaming when I dropped her off at her car. I'll be fine after some therapy and as soon as the monsters stop hiding under my bed. But seriously, it's really some good Halloween fun for only $8 a person and it goes to a great cause. Probably not recommended for little ones under 9 or 10. It's open this weekend and Halloween weekend, too. The hours are 7p-10p.

I went home for lunch today to discover my house plastered with those little Asian beetles. They seem cute enough but it turns out they're mean. Mean and hungry. I guess they cling to the walls because they're looking for a warm place to try and get inside before winter. Isn't that comforting. Also they like to land on you and bite! I hear they like to bite to determine whether we might be a source of food. Hmmm, trying to move into your home and looking for something to eat. Sounds like the relatives that will soon invade your home for Thanksgiving.

Wednesday, 10/14/09

I had the pleasure recently of seeing Kool and the Gang in concert. I always liked all of their songs and never even got sick of "Celebration." It was kind of a spur-of-the-moment decision to go but I'm glad I did. I heard the commercial on our station and thought "that might be kind of fun." The band still has some of the original members with a few new members added. Show highlights were "Get Down On It", a really cool sax solo and an extended version of "Let's Go Dancin'" with a cool reggae groove. After the concert, after a bunch of the audience had left, the band came right down in front of the stage and were shaking hands and giving hi-fives. You know I was in on that! Very cool or should I say Kool guys!

I'm just a DJ and not a pumpkin farmer so I don't know what kind of weather our orange friends prefer. This summer must have been the perfect growing conditions. The pumpkins I have seen are huge. I saw one so big at the grocery store I thought it might follow me home if I didn't buy it. I bought one this year and will probably buy one more. I sometimes like to carve my "Jason Hockey Mask" design and put a red light inside to make it extra creepy. When I'm groovin' to "Saturday at the 70's" I'll carve the "70's Have A Nice Day Smiley Face Design." One year I bought one of those carving kits and by the time I finished it I could have carved "Merry Christmas" in the pumpkin.

Wednesday, 9/30/09

OK, call me strange. Until last Friday night, I had never been to an Olive Garden. I guess when I crave Italian food and I often do, I head for Madison's own Gino's, which I love. I have to admit, though, Olive Garden is really good. It was my good friend Michelle's birthday. Michelle is one of my favorite people in the world. When her birthday rolls around she can pretty much go wherever she wants to go. I'm powerless! It turned out Michelle's birthday was a very affordable dinner date. I would have gladly paid way more for her. She was just happy I didn't get any food on myself. Earlier in the evening I stopped by my old place of part-time employment, the Crowne Plaza. They replaced Pearl's where I used to DJ with a really beautiful banquet room and there's a new bar called Growlers. Who would think a hotel lobby bar could be so nice but it really is nice. Growler's has a really yummy brat called the Milwaukee Footlong. As you might have guessed, it's a foot long! I think it could feed four at a tailgate party. it's so long it's like the wiener mobile without wheels!

It's that time of year already. It's time for the annual "World Dairy Expo." Once again I'm the DJ providing the music at the Sheraton Hotel. I've done this for over 10 years now. What fun! We haven't had a rowdy party reveler try to get a cow into the hotel yet but I'm hoping it might happen this year!

Thursday, 9/24/09

It sure is a nice summer we're having this fall! When I go walking this time of year one of my favorite places to go is Lake Farms County Park off of Libby Road. It's totally out in the country yet has all sorts of paths and shelters. Some of the walking paths run right alongside of Lake Waubesa. If you need to get out of the stuffy house or office and go for a walk I give it four stars. Another perk is in all of my trips to Lake County Park I've never encountered a bobcat, bear or any other hungry beast waiting to pounce and eat an unsuspecting human walker. How nice.

I went to see the Halloween II movie at the Point Cinema. I went by myself which is always a really bad idea for a horror flick. Here's what makes it even funnier - not only was I there by myself but it was the late show so the entire theater was empty, Yep, I was only person there to add to the spooky effect. I noticed Point Cinemas now sells White Castle burgers at the snack bar. Not that I was that hungry after watching Michael Meyers eat a dog!

Thursday, 9/17/09

Even though I can't play the "Magic 98 Birthday Game" it will be exciting to watch it unfold. All of our local stars did a fantastic job in the Birthday Game commercial. After I heard how long it took to produce it reminded me of my debut in TV. It was a short career! When I was a very small boy back when Moses roamed the Earth, I was asked to star in a local television commercial for Howard Johnson's restaurants. Madison had three at the time if I recall correctly. My mom worked at the location on the Beltline at Perry Street. It had an orange roof! I think they all did at the time. I think they bribed me into this by giving me all the brownie fudge sundaes I could handle. Sign me up! My role was to walk up the front sidewalk with my mom holding my hand, go inside and eventually eat a sundae. Me eating a sundae at that age was like watching "When Animals Attack." I thought it would be easy but it actually took half the day. The guy shooting and producing the whole thing was a total grouch. He kept telling me I was walking too fast or my eyes were closed. My mom was great! She was a total natural for TV. I belong on radio! I think after 50 takes and twice as many sundaes, I thought the whole thing was lame and I would rather be home playing with my Matchbox cars. The end result was pretty good I must say! My mom's boss at Howard Johnson, Mr. Snell, loved it. He hugged me, which was unusual since he was (I swear) eight feet tall and I was like two feet tall. My dad and all of my brothers and sisters thought it was really cool that the commercial often ran during Johnny Carson's "Tonight Show" on Channel 15. I was disappointed when my mom explained how Johnny Carson wouldn't actually see my commercial. So a big Jimmy salute to everybody that worked so hard to make our Magic 98 commercial look so good! What looks like fun is really hard work. It's not all glamour! Good luck with the Birthday Game!

Wednesday, 9/9/09

I hope your seatbelt still fits after the "Taste of Madison." As some of my friends from larger cities have admitted, Madison sure has several good restaurants and I think I tried most of them! Summer flew by this year. I'm sure winter will go much slower. Thinking of winter, I'm impressed my truck still has the original tires from 2005 and there's still some tread left! I might want to change them before winter so I can tear through the deep snow like always. My truck really can handle any winter. Road? I don't need a stinking road!

I have a feeling nobody uses paper checks anymore. I rarely do. I used to order several a year and now I haven't ordered any paper versions in ages. Recently, I needed to use one at the gas station and the clerk was like, "Wow, I haven't seen one of these in awhile, you strange man from another world." At least he took it!

I did a "September Birthdays Five At Five" yesterday. It made me realize all the September birthdays in my circle. So here I go...my brother Ed, my brother Dave, my sister Jean, my and your good friend Lanette Hansen, my good friend Michelle who can make me laugh harder than anybody, my friend Jamie who shares her birthday with Bruce Springsteen, my ex-girlfriend Marjorie who still speaks to me which is rare for an ex and my good friend Fly Girl Paige. Maybe I can find a couple more of those $4.80 yummy cakes like I found at Wal-mart for my birthday!

Friday, 9/4/09

It has been one exciting week in the world of Jim! On Wednesday morning at the end of a Magic 98 staff meeting, the Magic Crew threw me a completely unexpected 25th anniversary party! As of August 24th, 2009, I've been with Mid-West Family Broadcasting for a quarter of century. Yes, I started here when I was 12. I kind of mentioned the milestone date in passing to Amy Abbott and really didn't give it much additional thought. Isn't she sneaky! Wow! Big events do not go unnoticed here and I was very flattered. They tell me 25 years is almost unheard of in radio anymore so I feel like I've accomplished something without even trying! I've just been showing up everyday and having fun at a job that's not really a job, just playtime. I've been in three different buildings and worked with hundreds of good people. Our President Tom Walker says they've moved the station so many times to try and confuse me. To get an idea how long 25 years in radio is I've spun records, played tapes, CDs and now computer technology. I've never had a dull moment and loved every minute of it. Thanks to Bill Vancil for hiring me way back when nobody else would. Thanks to everybody I've ever worked with and those I currently work with for making it tons of fun.

Thursday, 8/27/09

Once again this past weekend I had some of the best sweet corn ever at the annual "Sun Prairie Sweet Corn Festival." I finally have gotten all the corn out of my teeth, eyes, ears and hair, and pockets. Yeah, it was a little messy. I guess maybe that's part of the fun! I've tried making my own sweet corn at home but it's never quite as good. The Madison area sure has some of the best, most unique summer festivals. I didn't really want to eat all that sweet corn with the "Taste Of Madison" just a little over a week away. I hope to see you there. It should be easy to spot me as I'll double in size from all the good Madison food. I just hope I don't block the view of the Capitol.

Monday, 8/17/09

This is totally unusual. It's rare that I get to see so many good movies in a row. I guess it means Hollywood is actually turning out some good flicks. Since earlier this year everything I've seen has been worth the admission! The latest was scorned by the critics and some of my friends for being too formula and too predictable. It was "The Proposal" starring Sandra Bullock. Maybe the fact that it stars Sandra Bullock was all it took for me. I've had a big ol' crush on her for the last 15 years. My friend Michelle has a strong resemblance to Sandra Bullock. True! How cool is that? "The Proposal" is really funny and Betty White plays a funny role, too.

I've always been a big fan of Steven Tyler and Aerosmith. When I heard he fell off stage a couple of weeks ago in concert I was concerned. However, after seeing the skit Jimmy Kimmel did (it's on YouTube) I'm less concerned and have been laughing out loud for days now. No offense to Steven - anybody still doing what he does at 61 years old is pretty impressive to me. Funny Jimmy Kimmel stuff, though.

Tuesday, 8/4/09

I've been to so many weddings lately! Some as a guest, many as the DJ. This past Saturday two very nice people named Jana and John had their reception at Madison's legendary Edgewater. They had the most original idea I've ever seen to get the bride and groom to kiss. Rather than have the guests clink their wine glasses, a guest wanting to see the newlyweds smooch would have to kick a soccer ball into the goal right next to the DJ table! Pretty original idea, I thought. Jana's father John Stransky - as in "Stransky Printing" - used to print the old "WISM Music Surveys" of the 1960's and 1970's so we had all sorts of things to talk about.

I've never been to "American Idol" but this has to be as exciting. This afternoon we will begin the auditions for our next Magic 98 TV commercial. I hope I'll be seeing you on my home screen soon!

Monday, 7/20/09

I never realized it could get as cold as it did Saturday morning. Unbelievable! I was up all night for the American Cancer Society's "Relay For Life" in Verona. It's an event I provide the music for every summer (I have a mobile DJ service on the side). It's easy to stay awake when your knees are knocking! I think the temperature just before sunrise was just barely 50, maybe even upper 40's. For the middle of July it felt like 30! Always a great event and some of the nicest people walking for miles to support the cause.

Sunday mornings, when I manage to roll out early, I often will watch the morning news shows. I saw some excellent tributes to the late Walter Cronkite and some excellent archive footage of history. The U.S. moon landing in July of 1969, the Beatles, many Presidential elections and Presidential scandals. You name it and Walter was there. I guess we thought someone like Walter would always be there.

The death of Michael Jackson has so many weird parallels to the death of Elvis in 1977. Both had supreme talent, both came from very humble backgrounds, both achieved worldwide fame, both changed the course of music history and both died way too young. In their short lives both gave away millions to many charitable causes which proves they probably weren't really bad guys at all. In the end both died under very suspicious circumstances and it seems both were extorted and used by many people. I think they both deserved much better.

Thursday, 6/25/09

I've never had the road "blow up" underneath me but I bet it's quite a thrill! It's probably not so good if you're riding a moped, Spree or Vespa. I've never heard of so many instances of exploding pavement as I've heard on my show the past few days. They just get the potholes patched up from winter and boom! Welcome to summer!

When a band has been together forever it seems like they go through a phase where they seemingly end up hating each other. In fact, they really don't hate each other and the issues are usually over music rights, creative differences or money. The Eagles are a good example. At some point, though, as they get older and wiser and realize they actually like each other, the band re-forms. I've heard rumors that the surviving members of The Beach Boys just might reconcile. Wouldn't it be nice? No pun intended! I've seen them at least three times since I was 14 and always a dynamite show.

How about our little Lanette? Ah, they grow up so quickly! She's getting hitched! First Fergie and now Netty. Listen carefully and you'll hear the broken- hearted men crying everywhere. Marc is a really great guy. I give him the Jimmy, big-brother-type two thumbs up approval! I bet her cool daddy (Wally) is more excited than when I told him Lanette and I were getting hitched on our trip to Mexico in 2005. Wally was not amused. Can you blame him?

If you spot massive flames shooting toward the sky in the days ahead, no worries. It's not wildfires. It's just all of my birthday candles. Yikes! Those "Golden Girls" are really starting to look "foxy" to me.

Tuesday, 6/16/09

Well, the weather has finally warmed up and I'm loving it! It was way too cool for June. I'm going to be a bit of a slacker the next couple of weeks. I'm off Friday this week and Thursday and Friday next week to celebrate my birthday. I need to enjoy a few days off around my birthday since I never know how long I'll last at this age!

"Concerts On The Square" season officially starts next Wednesday (June 24th). Make sure you get signed up to join two charming Magic 98 staffers at table 75 this year. Dayton Street Grille will feed you and your guest so you don't have to order a pizza or bring your own grill. We'll also have a cooler full of frosty beverages.

So many fun summer festivals to choose from around here this time of year. This week it's Cottage Grove and next week it's Oregon Summerfest. Oregon Summerfest has some of the best brats I've ever tasted and being from Wisconsin I've tasted a few!

Monday, 6/1/09

How did I get so lucky? I had both days off over the weekend and the weather was perfect! OK, it's June 1st so that means just 27 days until by birthday. I can't believe how fast time goes by. I remember my 18th birthday like it was two weeks ago and yet it was 100 years ago! I'm going to try to remember to buy myself a much smaller birthday cake this year from Copp's. The last one looked small in the bakery at Copp's but when I got it home it was roughly the size of the kitchen table! Very tasty though, and as you would guess it didn't go to waste. There's a bunch of June birthdays in my circle in June so here I go. Happy Birthday to my brother Bill, my cousin Steve, my niece Amber, my niece Lindsay, my niece Juli, my nephew Brandon, my friend Leah and my sister-in-law Karen. Whew! Maybe I should get another one of those big cakes at Copp's!

Pat O'Neill recently gave me something very cool. Historical recordings in fact. He knows what a radio geek I am. On June 17th, 1976 WISM 1480 presented "Spirit Of Madison Day". For that entire day, all of the station's programming was recorded and placed into a time capsule and stored away at the Wisconsin State Historical Society. Wow! I probably heard that day live as that was the station I grew up with. All the great D.J's back again. Clyde Coffee, David Ross, Jonathan W. Little, Charlie "Rock & Roll' Simon. This was one source of my career inspiration. These guys were having a ball! Good music too. The quality of that station was amazing. It always sounded like a major market radio station living here in medium size Madison. The only thing that surprised me was the number of commercials they played. Many of the commercials were for places long gone and out of business. Gimbel's, Petrie Sports, Treasure Island store, Lord Jim clothing store, the Shuffle Inn and more. I also noticed John Travolta's "Let Her In" was getting played alot that summer. Don't tell anybody, but I used to like that song!

Friday, 5/15/09

It's hard not to love a good outdoor patio now that warmer weather season has arrived. It's always a good time as long as the killer bees and rough weather stay away! A couple of my local favorites include Cheeseburger In Paradise, T.G.I. Friday's, The Fifth Quarter and Bourbon Street Grille. Visit one of those this summer and I'm sure to see you there! I hope I do!

I hope to make it to Summerfest in Milwaukee. The music line-up is pretty amazing this year. Just announced this week (and you probably heard it from Pat & Bob) is Stevie Wonder on June 28th. Hey, that's my birthday. He probably won't sing "Happy Birthday Dear Jim" but it will be worth the trip to Milwaukee to hear Superstition, Sir Duke, I Wish, Master Blaster and the list goes on and on for miles.

Tuesday, 5/5/09

Sunday was what I will call the perfect day. I don't need to tell you how nice it was. I put it to use by cleaning out my truck in a very detailed way. Floor mats, under the seats (scary place), behind the seats, washed all the glass, polished up my fancy mag wheels. Perhaps I did this because I was taking one of my favorite people (Lacie) to the Jason Mraz concert that night. What a concert that was! Jason is one of the best performers I've seen in years. If you saw the show, you're probably hoping like I am that he'll be back soon! Lacie and I only heard the last few songs of opening band "The Plain White T's" since we got there a little late after trying to get unstuck from the booth at "Texas Roadhouse" where they fed us enough for eleven people. Great food, though! Lacie is fun to go to concerts with because her enthusiasm level is so high. She gets into it more than anybody I've ever known and a DJ vet like me has seen a few concerts!

Monday, 4/27/09

I listened to Magic 98 for several hours on Sunday. I had some driving to do on Sunday afternoon so I enjoyed much of "Sunday at the 80's." As I was driving pretty much in the middle of nowhere, the sky turned very dark and wicked-looking, and it was good to have our very own Jim Bartlett telling me exactly was happening with the weather. Such great radio is becoming less and less common as more stations automate their stations almost totally on the weekend. As we enter severe weather season it's good to know Magic 98 is live and local with the News 3 Weather Center staffed all the time. It's harder and harder to find radio like that anymore.

I've seen a couple of really funny movies lately. If they make me laugh out loud that's a good sign and my own movie review gauge! "I Love You Man" and "Seventeen Again" both get two thumbs up and many belly laughs from Jim!

I'm really looking forward to Jason Mraz next Sunday at the Coliseum. I've seen him on "Saturday Night Live" twice so I know I'm in for a good show. Once again, my concert date is the lovely Lacie who's done an amazing job of keeping in touch since I had to hang up my Club D.J. job at the former Pearl's.

Birthdays of note...Casey Kasem (who works really hard on Magic 98 on weekends so the rest of don't have to) is 77. My good pal Randy Krueger is 55 - technically, but lives more like 25!

Tuesday, 4/21/09

I hope you missed me last week! In case you're wondering, I had a fantastic vacation. Fun and yet restful. I made many road trips and caught up with several friends that thought I was dead. My really good friend Craig works part time at the American Legion Hall in Darien, WI, so I paid a visit there. I was pleased to learn they listen to Magic 98 there on a daily basis and quite loudly! I saw an unusual thing there at the Legion Hall while I was visiting...a cocker spaniel that drinks beer! Yeah, there he was having a cold one! I just hope he didn't drive home! Also noticed several grass fires last week while I was driving all over the place. We're not talking another Peshtigo fire bit it was a little frightening. I guess it could have been worse, like if I was still driving my 1994 Chevy with a leaky gas tank.

You know what seems to be inevitable, at least for me? When I'm having dinner with a beautiful, amazing woman, I'm bound to get food on myself. This happened on Saturday night while I was having dinner with my good friend Michelle. Gigantic nacho sauce stain on my light blue shirt. Nice! Michelle got a good laugh out of that one. She laughed even harder when the waiter asked if we needed anything else and I said, "Yeah, how about a washing machine." I guess you can't take me anywhere. It's funny how our own Amy Abbott doesn't take me to lunch anymore since the "tomato soup on denim shirt incident."

This "Green Movement" has got me really thinking. On a personal level I've been trying to use much less paper. I've signed up for e-statements from my insurance company and credit union. It's cool, too, how much clutter it eliminates around the house.

Sunday, 4/12/09

That was one fun Easter Sunday. I enjoyed it at my sister's house in rural Brooklyn. Her famous taco dip and all kinds of wine with my way cool nieces! Oh sure there was ham but I filled up on taco dip and wine! It was also a birthday bash for my nephew Jacob. One cool kid. Happy Birthday Jake. I can't believe he's ten already. Of course, I can't believe my nieces are turning 30! How the heck did that happen? OK,I wanted to wish a very happy April birthday to these fine friends but I won't say how old they are: Bob Bonner, Kathryn Vaughn, Sara Freeman, Randy Krueger and Casey Kasem. I bet Casey's not counting birthdays anymore but still counting down the hits twice every Saturday on Magic 98. Nice plug, huh?

I hope you had a great Easter and found all of your eggs and maybe some large bills on the ground as well. It's good to know it takes three people to cover me when I'm gone! Wow! Enjoy Liz Terry, Sara Freeman and the other Jim, Jim Bartlett, while I'm gone all of this week. See you real soon!

Tuesday, 4/7/09

I'd like to be able to say how weird the snow is in April but I've seen stranger things. I recall May 1st of 1994 - while helping a former girlfriend move - it snowed at least a couple of inches. I hope I didn't curse our luck by bringing that up just now! If it snows on "Bratfest" or on our Memorial Day cookout, it may be time to relocate. I have a feeling any day soon it will be hot and humid. I say bring it on soon.

I didn't realize how hard it is to find a CD store anymore. I guess it's truly a "download" world. I think our options on a retail level are pretty much limited to Wal-Mart, Target and Shopko. Exclusive Company still has their excellent State St. and Janesville locations. Madison also has some great used CD stores like Pre-Play and Half Price Books. I never thought the day would come when there wasn't a CD store at the mall! When I was a kid (ancient times) the malls had a minimum of three record stores. Here's a great on line CD store I like. It's called "CD UNIVERSE." Great selection and prices. They have DVD's as well. Their website is www.cduniverse.com.

Wednesday, 3/25/09

One of the many perks of working at a radio station is free food! Grateful listeners, advertisers and assorted friends of the station will bring food at random. Lately it's been cake, wraps, bagels, sandwiches and some really tasty shamrock cookies last week for St. Patrick's Day. In the past, we've also received chicken wings, pizza and brownies. A million thanks to those who feed us so well. It's a good thing it's radio because soon I don't know if any of us would fit on your home TV screen. I do save money on vending machine change, though.

You always thought a house on the waterfront would be spectacular. Maybe not so much anymore! I know Gary Cannalte is not trying to scare us when he says how high the water tables are right now...he's just giving us a heads-up for things ahead this spring. There's a creek I drive by everyday to and from work. I noticed everyday it seems to be creeping up a little higher! Very soon it will swallow up the road and maybe me if I don't time my commute just right. A good friend of mine lives on the Rock River shore in Janesville. Another lives on the shores of the Sugar River in Green County. Both tell me they sleep with one eye open and a life jacket over their pajamas. At least Lake Delton will be full for summer fun.

Monday, 3/16/09

I'm truly a lucky guy in the career field. Every day I show up and and get to play really good music and talk on the radio. For this they pay me! What a deal! I fear one day I'll wake up and have to get a "real job." I hope I oversleep that day. My job here at the radio station is made so much more fun with the really excellent people I work with. Seriously! I like them all. They're fun, super creative, and passionate about their work. Sadly, one of them won't be here anymore. You probably heard about her. Her name is Jolene Neis. She was our company CFO and someone I was honored to call my friend. She died last Thursday way too soon at 44 years old. Jolene handled all of the important financial things here to keep the business running and make us on-air goofs sound good! Last Thursday night I took the long drive home and thought about her. I was remembering all the things she did for me, the radio stations and our community. I used up so much memory I almost forgot where I lived!

I also remembered a really funny moment with Jolene. Many years ago our studios and corporate offices were in different buildings. I knew Jolene's name but did not yet know her well. One "Saturday At The 70's" I was doing the late shift and a very happy woman called the Magic Line and said, "Jimmy, we're a bunch of wild women having a bachelorette party, keep the fun music coming." Me not knowing it was her said "Wild women at a bachelorette party? Want me to come over and dance like Fabio?" At that point she told me she was Jolene from the corporate office. Thinking I just finished my radio career here and would probably need to learn how to dance like Fabio to feed myself, she let out a huge laugh and said, "we'll pass, Jimmy but keep up the good work". Over the years she impressed me, like when a beautiful girl from De Forest was seriously injured in an ATV accident. Jolene led the charge to organize a fundraiser. She asked me to come and spin the tunes at the local park and I gladly did. Hundreds of people showed up to help in the cause. When our company took over the Elver Park July 4th fireworks Jolene stepped up once again. On a highly personal note, when my Mom was dying a couple of years from cancer, Jolene checked up on me everyday. These things and so many more were Jolene Neis. Smart business person, life of the party, super family woman. I wish Jolene's family and her many friends strength and brighter days ahead. When you enjoy the fireworks at Elver park this 4th of July, think of Jolene and smile. Catch you later, Jolene and you're right, I could use a haircut.

Monday, 3/9/09

You might say I have a low tolerance to pain. In fact, you might say I'm a wimp when it comes to pain. A couple of years ago I had a fairly serious accident. Ever since my neck has caused me extreme pain. It's almost enough to make me cry and I'm a pretty rough & tumble kind of guy! I've tried several different procedures without much success. My good friend Paige has suggested acupuncture. Now I'm not crazy about little tiny needles bring poked into my back and neck but at this point I'm willing to try anything. My biggest fear is the acupuncturist will poke the wrong nerve and I'll accidentally punch or kick them. I suppose it's a risk they take!

Sometimes in the morning when I'm getting ready to come to the station, I enjoy the Regis & Kelly show. The two of them have great on-air chemistry much like Pat & Bob. This morning was one of their funnier shows. Regis went shopping with his wife over the weekend only to return home and find a raccoon had invaded their home. This really struck a nerve with me as I recalled a similar incident in 2005. I was getting the Magic Van loaded for our "Concerts On The Square" broadcast that afternoon. When I opened the cover on our dumpster in the back lot, I discovered a raccoon had fallen inside. Racoons being nocturnal he was not enjoying the bright afternoon sun and was anything but glad to see me! I tried to make nice but he wasn't interested. I can't imagine what one would be like in your house.

Monday, 3/2/09

Was it just me or did yesterday seem way too cold for March? I think I'm looking more forward to spring this year than ever. I'm one of those unusual guys that actually likes the hot and hazy days of summer and for me they can't get here fast enough. Other than the cold weather, I had a most enjoyable weekend. I was Mr. DJ for a group of fine people that have me back every February. They love 70's & 80's music so it was much like being on Magic 98!

I met a very attractive lady who seemed to develop a little crush on ol' Jim. She kept wanting to dance with me so I did what I could while trying to keep changing the songs! I really need to get a laptop for these applications! At the end of the night she shocked me by asking me, "How did you get so cute?" I told her probably from the dim room lighting and all the drinks she had. Good times, though! The party was in a huge room with an indoor pool. Nice hangout for a freezing cold March weekend.

I was saddened over the weekend to hear of Paul Harvey's death. I guess we assumed since he was always there he always would be there all across America everyday. Not so. I really appreciate great, unique radio personalities like Paul and all of the ones I work with and all of the ones I grew up with. It seems like there are fewer and fewer of them in the corporate driven radio industry. I'm so lucky to work here!

Friday, 2/20/09

I hope you're enjoying the new digital television signal that is being beamed into your home. I believe Gary Cannalte looks younger, taller and more suave than ever! Most of the televisions at my place are on cable except the one in my bedroom. I didn't realize how much I must the watch the one in my bedroom until two days ago when my viewing options became limited to just two stations! Thank you Channel 47 and Channel 21 for still being there! My brother actually picked up a converter box for me a couple of months ago. It's not like I put it off or anything! That will be one of those cold winter day projects getting it hooked up correctly. I'm starting to miss my "Friends" reruns on Channel 57 as well as David Letterman on Channel 3.

My good friend and your "Sunday at the 80's" expert Amy Hudson takes her turn at riding the elephant this weekend at the Zor Shrine Circus. Everyone here at the station has taken their turn over the years. My turn was in 1998. I was scared to death and matters were only made worse by the circus employee who told me, "You'll be fine if you don't fall off because he'll squash you like a beer can." Thanks. Maybe I should take my chances on the high wire, too, I told him. It turned out to be great fun. I noticed you have to hang on tightly since there's so much lateral movement as the elephant sways side to side. I rode into center ring proudly and full figured without being squashed like a beer can. Elephant then let me dismount as he knelt down on one knee and I slid off like Fred Flintstone did from his dinosaur when it was quitting time at the quarry. He winked at me, too! If you get a chance, stop and cheer Amy Hudson this Saturday at the circus from 9:30-10:30am. She's awesome!

Monday, 2/9/09

I'm assuming this Valentine's day will be filled with candlelight and romance for you! The day before (2/13) will be filled with Rocky's heart shaped pizzas for many lucky Magic 98 listeners. If you crave some Magic 98 love, let us know and we'll be on our way! I'm trying to decide between dinner and a movie for Valentine's night or the Motley Crue concert! Nothing says "love" like Motley Crue. I thought last night's Grammy Awards were good. I saw a list of musical heavyweights that oddly enough have never received a Grammy. The list included Queen, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Diana Ross and the Doors. To see Robert Plant win last night for his work with Alison Krauss made it seem like somebody at the Grammy's finally got it right. I thought it took guts for British singer M.I.A. to perform so intensely on stage with her baby due yesterday. Her belly was even bigger than mine after Thanksgiving dinner! I had the feeling her doctor was backstage putting on his scrubs.

Lanette recently made my day like she often does! She e-mailed me a beautiful picture of my late, great and I mean great sister Jane! It was Jane and her daughter and I proudly say my beautiful niece and Godchild Amber. Amber was just a year or two old then. Valentine's Day would be Jane's birthday. I remember one year we took Magic 98 Valentine's treats to her for her birthday and Valentine's Day. I don't know if I ever seen her smile so big! Me, too.

Monday, 2/2/09

Well, Jimmy saw his shadow this morning so we're in for six more weeks of winter. I think we probably were anyway! I'm not sure if it's the same Jimmy we met years ago in the Sun Prairie "Flags of Freedom" Parade. We were there with the Magic Van and Jimmy was about two spots behind us in the parade line-up. I went back to visit him and he had a look on his face like he'd rather chew my arm off at the elbow than look at me! Maybe he gets that way from all the publicity or having to wake up so early.

I've been dealing with this everlasting winter by getting outside and walking around. After the Super Bowl last night, I got outside and walked about three miles. I thought it was good way to burn off all of those Cheetos!

Speaking of the big game...that was awesome! I wasn't cheering for either team although I tend to go for the underdog. Fitzgerald is a player that really impresses me. Harrison's 100 yard touchdown was pretty amazing, too! I'm really glad I watched that game. I think it was one of the most exciting in years. Springsteen rocked the house, too. I'm glad I didn't make another snack run during halftime! What can I say about Faith Hill? She could howl like a coyote and I'd listen. It's hard to imagine what Jennifer Hudson is feeling these days. It hasn't been very long since all the unbelievable tragedy in her life. It sure didn't affect her performance, though. Wow! That took your breath away last night.

Monday 1/26/09

I was feeling pretty privileged this past Saturday to provide the DJ music for Trek's very only inauguration ball. The President and first lady weren't there but we had a good time anyway! Since it was for Trek, I thought Lance Armstrong might be there too but no sign of him either! Big thanks to Jessica, Rebecca & Denise for hosting such a fun party.

I've never been a D.J. on a country station but I really like some of the superstar country bands. One that we play is Rascal Flatts. They will be in Madison on February 7th at the Kohl center just one week before Valentine's day. That could score you some love points if you forgot the flowers last year or the chocolates in the car.

Many many January birthdays in my circle. Here goes. Happy birthday to my cool brothers Pat & Dennis. Also my sister-in-law Linda, my cousin and partner in crime while I was growing up Rusty Rogers, my niece Stephanie, my cousin Bud & my friend Sandy from Edgerton.

 

Tuesday, 1/13/09

I hope your New Year's resolutions have worn off by now and you're enjoying life again! I've finally started writing the correct '09 date on my checks and other important documents. Have you had enough winter yet? I no longer regret having to make truck payments on my four-wheel drive. It has been the smartest purchase I've ever made.

If you want to take your date to a movie you might actually get to see, you might want to wait a week or so to see Clint Eastwood's "Grand Torino." Last weekend they were actually turning people away since all the seats were full. It has been Clint's top selling movie of his career. I've always been a big fan of "Play Misty For Me". That one has always been a great training film for aspiring DJ's.

As I write this it's 90 degrees in LA this afternoon! That won't make us feel better. This will. It's -13 degrees in Grand Forks, ND. Good to know somewhere is even colder than here. Be careful and stay warm.

Tuesday, 12/30/08

It seems when you drive a newer vehicle you're driving a moving target just waiting to be hit by something. For example, my truck - with well under 100,000 actual miles - got nailed by a flying stone from an overloaded dump truck on the Beltline. What started out as a small chip has now turned into a crack about two feet long! Last time I priced a new windshield it was about $400. Watch for flying debris on the Beltline because you never know.

I managed to watch all the classic Christmas movies and shows over the holiday season. I have a bunch of them on DVD which is nice if I get the urge to cool off by watching "Frosty The Snowman" some blistering hot July day! One really cool one I bought this year is the 1951 black and white version of "Scrooge/A Christmas Carol." The acting is good and the ghosts are downright creepy! Charles Dickens himself would give this version two thumbs up and four stars!

Friday, 12/26/08

I hope you had a Merry Christmas! Mine are always good. It's hard not to have fun when you come from a "Walton" size family. I have to admit it seemed a little sad since it was the second Christmas since my mom died. I think the second Christmas is worse because the reality has set in and you realize they're really gone. Nonetheless it was loads of fun and I'm looking forward to next year already! My sister makes the best Christmas cookies and taco dip ever. I believe Santa and I now wear the same size pants!

My vacation was quite long. I had to postpone some travel plans as did many people because of the wicked winter weather. One thing I've always wanted to do is go to the "Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade" over the holiday season. Maybe I can do that next year.

Tuesday, 12/9/08

It's kind of cool I remembered it's my dad's birthday today. He died way back in 1971 at the rather young age of 51. I was in third grade when he died and didn't realize how young 51 really is in the big scheme of things. It seems like he missed out on many cool things that went down since his untimely passing. He would have loved all of his grandchildren that came along over the years. With Christmas approaching quickly, I remember the last Christmas he was alive he bought us a new snowmobile! Wow! How's that for a Christmas present! We always had amazing Christmas presents. In fact, I remember always getting everything I ever wanted on Christmas morning. My awesome mom kept that going for years after my dad died. What a spoiled brat I was and what wonderful set of parents I had! So Happy Birthday to Ken McGaw and Merry Christmas to both my mom and dad. I'll miss them both this Christmas but something tells me they're having a good time together!

The Carrie Underwood concert was fantastic as was my concert date with Lacie. Carrie Underwood has a very strong voice that you could feel bouncing off the walls of the Coliseum. It was good to see the Coliseum nearly sold out for a concert. It seems like that doesn't happen as much anymore. Carrie seems very down to earth and not all that affected by "Idol Super Stardom." Lacie seemed way excited, as she put it, "to be in the same room as Carrie Underwood."

Monday, 12/1/08

Well the good news is all my clothes still fit this morning when I got dressed for work. Also, my seatbelt still fits and no bridges collapsed on my way to the station under my weight. Yeah, I ate like a pig on Thursday but had a wonderful time. If you're still dealing with turkey leftovers, go to the Copp's website www.copps.com for some great ideas for your 50 pounds of leftover turkey.

This whole holiday season thing is way too much fun. I've been invited to a batch of holiday parties and I think I can make them all this year. I'll be one "Jolly Old Elf."

Resident Magic 98 "Idol Expert" Amy Abbott has confirmed that Carrie Underwood is the only "Idol" winner to play Madison. She'll play the Coliseum this Thursday. I'm taking my good friend Lacie for her birthday which is that same day. Lacie and I worked together at the former Pearl's for a couple of years. For the first year or so she hardly spoke to me but then we became really good friends. I'm glad we got past that not speaking part or Thursday might be a little dull.

I've always enjoyed Ellen's show and I rarely see it since I'm on the radio when she's on TV. I didn't know they ran it on Sunday but while I was waiting for the Packer game there she was! One of her guests was Dolly Parton who had me laughing out loud. Recently, a Fox news report had indicated that Dolly had died from a heart attack! Good thing that report was false. Also, Dolly made a funny remark about running for President. I guess many of her fans want her to think about it.

Friday, 11/21/08

It's hard to believe that Thanksgiving is less than a week away now! It seems like we were just pigging out on Halloween candy. I think this the first time ever I'm actually not working on Thanksgiving. Thank you Magic 98! I'm hoping I'll still fit on the radio after the feast or I should say feasts! I've been invited to a few and I really don't want to be antisocial!

I probably enjoyed "Magic 98 from A to Z" as much as you! I actually played some songs I didn't know the station even had. Cool!

This auto industry situation is frightening. I've never seen our economy so messed up in my life. It does give one the chills. My parents and grandparents used to tell me the about the depression and I'd think, "That could never happen again." Now I wonder. I've been paying closer attention to the news than ever before. Our new President has quite a mess to clean up but I know he'll rise to the challenge. Many of my friends in the retail sector tell me how Christmas accounts for 1/3 of annual sales. The Christmas season can truly make or break a business so I wish them well. I'll buy as much as I can! My thoughts, prayers and well wishes go out to anybody who has lost their job. I know several in Janesville. Better days will come.

Friday, 11/14/08

My very unscientific method of determining the new President was right-on-accurate! Based on the number of Obama yard signs in my neighborhood and all around Dane County, I guessed he had it in the bag and he did. Speaking of Presidents, I recently saw the "W" movie by Oliver Stone while I was on vacation. Very well done but what I thought was funny is that the actor who played Colin Powell talked just like Louis Armstrong! I would recommend the movie, though.

No big scare but I had to take both of my cats to the vet. It was weird. They were sneezing just like a person does. The vet gave them some antibiotics and they'll be fine. The ride there was the problem. I've learned cats do not ride well in my truck. I would have been safer to ride in the passenger seat and let one of the cats drive. Next time I'm calling them a cab!

From the Department of "Good To Know They Notice Me" my good friend Lacie at the Crowne Plaza/former Pearl's sent me a very funny text this week saying they have a sign up in the break room to congratulate me on my upcoming employee anniversary date of November 26th, 1999. I left when Pearl's closed up forever on July 27th! Maybe I should have stayed punched in on the time clock. Hey, at least they had the date right.

Saturday, 11/1/08

That was the warmest Halloween I can remember. It seems like when I was a kid we'd pop the lid off the jack-o-lantern and gather around to stay warm on Halloween night! I had about eight little ghouls come by my front door. I always like that whole routine seeing what they dress up like. I bought way more candy than I needed. Hmmmm. Perhaps that was no accident. Our Magic 98 Halloween deliveries were a good time. I was Yoda and my partner in crime Lanette was a mummy. Lanette even had the makeup down perfectly. What a blast! Radio is truly one of those fields where you never really have to grow up completely.

Election day coming up quickly. I have to admit I, too, got a little hooked on all the polls and projections. The campaign seemed a little sleazy but I understand that's been going on for many, many years. In fact, here's a book I recommend...it's called Mudslingers. It's all about dirty campaign tactics and advertising. You'll find it at most major bookstores. I hear the turnout on Tuesday is expected to be the largest in over a century! The forecast high of around 70 degrees won't hurt, either. Maybe I'll just camp out at my polling place. They probably won't mind if I don't dig a campfire. Well, in anticipation of the long line, I'm taking the week off. I hope your guy wins and take care of yourself.

Tuesday, 10/21/08

I have another interesting election poll. I wonder if you can tell who will win based on the number of yard signs a candidate has in any given area. I've been counting them in my neighborhood (Fitchburg) and all over Dane County. Based on my very unscientific drive-by research, the clear winner is________! Ha ha, I'll tell you after the election. Let's see how close I was!

A very good friend of mine turns the big 4-0 this month. My friend shall remain anonymous for fear of my own personal safety! There will be a large party this Saturday with no black balloons.

My current favorite song on Magic 98 is "I'm Yours" by Jason Mraz. I like singers that don't sound like anybody else and that's him!

All the best to our Badger football coach. Hang in there. I had the pleasure of meeting him once at "Cheeseburger In Paradise" It's just a slump! A short slump at that. I bet it ends in time for Homecoming weekend.

Wednesday, 10/15/08

I would have never thought I could get so sunburned this late in the season but it happened. I was outside all day Sunday for the "Walk for Autism" at Warner Park. The turnout was excellent. Madison area people really rise to the challenge of these events. Hey, give yourselves a pat on the back!

I took a late night stroll around the Square Sunday night. That's something I usually do Thanksgiving night after I've consumed my weight in gravy, stuffing and pumpkin pie. The Capitol looked really cool all lit up in pink! This week it's green for "Money Awareness Week." I hope they can turn it orange for Halloween week. Speaking of Halloween...with all of the polling going on for the Presidential race, this one really fascinated me. The candidate that sells the most Halloween masks of his likeness is usually the candidate that wins. It makes you wonder - is that Mr. Obama or Mr. McCain campaigning at your front door or just somebody in a mask? I guess I would watch and see if he plucks his opponent's yard sign out of your lawn or not!

Monday, 10/6/08

I've just completed another week of "World Dairy Expo" fun at the Sheraton Hotel. Since 1998, I've been the DJ in the main ballroom for very hardworking farmers who don't get a chance to get off the farm very often. It was a wild time as usual! Along with Canadians, many in attendance this year were from Germany. Something I noticed is that those that have never been to Madison really love our city. Can you blame them? Thanks to the new staff of the Sheraton for all the help! The Sheraton changed owners last year so it's a whole new staff. The party goers didn't drink much milk even though it was "Dairy Expo." They kept the cows out of the hotel, though, so everything went well.

It's amazing what a little time, drywall and paint can do! I stopped by The Crowne Plaza recently. What used to be Pearl's where I was Mr. DJ all those years is almost completed as a new banquet room. You can't even tell it was ever a nightclub! The sign is gone, the bar, our groovy disco lighting all gone without a trace! Kind of spooky! Our former staff has done a good job of keeping in touch with each other. I like that. We were a close-knit staff.

Friday, 9/26/08

I spent a good part of this summer being kind of a slug. So recently, I've become incredibly physically active. Seriously. You'd hardly recognize me! It's sort of my own "micro Ironman." I only have two events each day. I walk about three miles every day and then hop on my mountain bike for about five miles. I haven't decided on a third phase yet to make it a true "Ironman." Maybe I could jog over to the Taco Bell. Exercise is a good thing. I was talking to Lanette about it and it's like once you've started it your body reminds you when you skip it for a day.

Amy Abbott and I just got back from the new Farm & Fleet store in Verona. Very impressive store! I think they've had the one store on Stoughton Road for about 50 years. I know my way around that one by heart. The new one is huge so you might get lost the first few visits.

I stumbled on a great video on "You Tube." If you love "Saturday At The 70's", check out "Life is A Rock" by Reunion. That's the 70s tune where the guy is rattling off all the names of great singers and bands. He does it really fast like he's had about twelve Mountain Dews and twice as many Red Bulls. I don't know if they were even making music videos when the song came out in '74 but it's still pretty well done. MTV came on in 1981 so this might be something that was produced well after the fact.

Birthday wishes. A long list in my circle for September. My sister Jean, my brothers Dave & Ed. Also, my good friends Jaimie, Michelle, Lanette Hansen, Marjorie, Paige and Jenelle! Whew! It would be easier just to call Pat & Bob at 6:30.

Monday, 9/15/08

I know it's too early to tell but the Packers are looking really good so far. We're not at the point of saying "Brett who?" yet but the new QB has done a good job. I'm really looking forward to this season. Sunday's game was a heart attack to watch - I'm glad I didn't miss it.

Speaking of great sports action, my friend Randy has bought the Wii game. I might not be seeing Randy for awhile. I think he spent most of the weekend playing it. I can see myself buying one of these for those long winter months ahead. The Wii is way cheaper than the Play Station. Play Station II is cool since you can watch DVD's on it and I do all the time.

I'll be hosting some Halloween parties again this year as the ghoulish DJ. I went searching for some Halloween props and lights this past weekend. As usual, Walgreen's has some of the best Halloween merchandise. I also found an item called the "Cellar Dweller." This ghoulish creature pops right out of these cellar doors when unsuspecting guests walk by him. Nice! It's fun to scare little trick-or-treaters but I don't want to give them a heart attack or send them to therapy for life. Although, maybe if they drop enough mini Snickers bars on the lawn I could get over it!

It's hard to believe but it's been one year (9/16) since my Mom passed away. I still think about her all the time. I finally got the courage to visit the cemetery. I hadn't been there since the funeral. It was weird to see her date of death. She bought the plots and tombstone way back when my dad died in 1971. Her birth date was engraved on there but date of death was blank all these years. I used to tease her when we visited my Dad. I'd say, "Look ma, you have reservations." She'd just tell me to shut up!

Thursday, 8/28/08

I was watching the Olympics and the Democratic National Convention and thinking what a nice picture my Sanyo flat screen TV has. Then I was thinking what a picture it won't have at all by next February if I don't get one of those digital converter boxes. As you know, next February all full power U.S. television stations go digital. If you don't have a digital ready TV or a converter box, your TV viewing will get pretty dull! Most of my place is hooked up to Charter cable so I'm set. However, my bedroom TV isn't so here's what I did. Go to this cool website...digitaltvanswers.com. There you can even get a $40 coupon off the fancy converter box you'll need for the big switch in 2009. You'll save money on the box and have more money for Cheetos!

Monday, 8/18/08

In all fairness, the sweetcorn from the grocery store is good and so is the sweetcorn from Popeye's Chicken. However, the sweetcorn at the "Sun Prairie Sweetcorn Festival" might just be the best in the world! I had much fun and many ears of corn. I hadn't been to that festival in many years so I was way overdue. Unlike last year, the weather turned out perfectly. It's really hard to be bored around here in the summertime, isn't it? Hard to be bored or hungry.

Speaking of food...It's full steam ahead for "Taste Of Madison." We'll see you there on Saturday this year. The event runs both days but if we stay too long we won't fit in our cars anymore.

Ever run into someone who knows you but you have no idea who they are? That happened to me twice this weekend. These two seemed to know everything about me with the exception of my DNA and credit score. For the life of me I have no clue who they were! I just smiled and nodded the whole time.

Congratulations to my friends Bryan and Jessica, getting married next weekend. Bryan has been chasing her for about seven years. He finally caught her! I saw him on Saturday night with no signs of cold feet. In fact, I've never seen him so happy and it should be fun.

Friday, 8/8/08

I guess they say getting married on August 8th, 2008 or 8/08/08 will bring good luck. I don't want to rush into anything, though! It could make for some very crowded churches and banquet halls in our area. Speaking of weddings, I had way too much fun at the reception for Lanette's sister (Karin) last Saturday! You should have seen Lanette boogie. She is the new "Dancing Queen." Karin was one beautiful bride. Her new hubby Andy is one lucky man! Karin is lucky, too, because Andy is a really great guy.

It's hard to believe how quickly "Taste of Madison" is approaching. Magic 98 will be there on Saturday, August 30th. It's just one gigantic buffet! Once again we'll have a great music stage for you. That is if we all don't eat too much and block the view! Yes, you know you've overdone it when someone shouts, "Get out of the way, you're blocking the view of the Capitol."

I'm feeling pretty good now after sort of a strange 36 hour case of the flu. Tuesday night my temperature hit about 103. I went to bed Tuesday night at 7:45. I think the last time I went to bed that early I was wearing a diaper and baby booties. Have you ever noticed the weird dreams you have with a high fever? Those dreams could top even the best Spielberg movie.

Monday, 7/28/08

I had no idea how sad it would be to leave a part-time DJ club job after nine years. Now I know! Saturday night was the last night for Pearl's in the Crowne Plaza (see my previous April 14th blog for more info). It was much like the last episode of "Cheers" in the early 90's. Regular customers get very attached to their favorite pub or restaurant. It kind of becomes like a friend of sorts. Saturday night was much like a visitation or wake for a loved one! Many people came in to say their farewells. I also didn't realize how we take for granted how attached we get to our co-workers and how they become like second family. So thanks to Mike, Joe, Tammy, Angela, Phil, Lacie, Dino, Michelle and anybody I forgot to mention. So long Pearl's 1987-2008. What a blast!

Before our "Concerts On The Square" season winds down (already), I want to thank Andrew Sewell and the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra, all of my co-hosts from Magic 98, Trevor Hoffman (our engineer), Kevin Conlin (helping us back at the station) and U.S. Bank. I'm already looking forward to next year! If you didn't make it to Magic 98 table 75 this season, I sure hope you do next summer.

Thursday, 7/17/08

You've probably noticed how technology is moving at a rapid pace. It won't be long and we'll have robots to mow the lawn, do the dishes and do the laundry. It seems though as new things are invented many old favorites vanish. The future of the compact disc looks very dim to say the least. This is because more and more people are downloading music these days. I've never done much of that because I always wanted to make sure everyone involved in the making of a great album were paid as they should be paid. If not, it would be like going to work all day and not getting paid for it. No thanks! Downloading is not going away but some CD stores have. I was sad to see The Exclusive Company on Madison's west side go out of business. They always had everything I was looking for and then some! Their State Street and Janesville stores remain open and I hope for a long time.

Only two more "Concerts On The Square" left for this summer. My guests so far have been some of nicest people in the world. I'm behaving myself so the Governor hasn't booted me from the Capitol lawn yet! I hope to see you there soon.

Monday, 6/30/08

I had quite a birthday weekend. First, the party at The Hody Bar in Middleton courtesy of Lanette and Peggy here at the station. Beer and cake! Yummy! Saturday, I watched the fireworks at Warner Park. I thought I would give more blood to the mosquitoes than the Red Cross takes in every year but the wind kept them away from the park. The crowd was smaller than previous years probably because of the fear of mosquitoes and the threat of rain. Sunday, I took in more fireworks at Angell Park after the races. I like to call it "Rhythm & Booms East." Hats off to Evergreen State Bank and everybody at Angell Park. Those fireworks were great, too!

What a retro trip I had this past weekend. On a return trip from Portage, I stopped at an original A&W drive-in. Oh yeah, cute carhops, tray on window, the works! The food was awesome, too. Your root beer still comes in a glass mug. Good to know they're still out there. If you're driving into Portage, it's on the right hand side of Highway 51 as you drive toward downtown. I know Edgerton has one as well. They listen to Magic all the time. I'm a little behind this year but I finally bought my first pair of flip-flops. Not only does Portage have one of the world's last A&W's but also one of the only K-Mart's in the area. Great flip-flops for guys. Stylish and cool and I'll have a reason to trim my toenails more often!

Monday 6/16/08

I'm glad to see the world hasn't ended! I had my doubts the last week with the strangest weather I've ever seen. I hope your basement isn't an indoor pool and your yard a lagoon. It appears to be getting better for this week with little rain and plenty of sun. I hope the weather holds out for June 27th when Lanette Hansen & Peggy Lenz from the station throw ol' Jim a little birthday bash at Capital Brewery in Middleton. Aren't they nice! My birthday is actually June 28th but why not start early, I say! On my actual birthday, I'm headed to Warner Park for fireworks and plan on inviting about 250,000 people to help me celebrate my birthday!

Here's a guy we should hire for "Saturday at the 70's." I met him at Pearl's one night about a week ago. His name is Lou and he and his wife now live in Florida. In the 70's Lou was a club DJ at one of the hottest discos in New York City. On any given night, he'd meet people like Donna Summer, John Travolta, and a long list of big timers of the era. Lou admits he isn't crazy about the new technology. In his day, he played the music off of 12-inch dance singles. You've probably seen them. They looked like vinyl albums but were actually singles. He was excited when I told him about our "Saturday at the 70's" show on Magic 98. He's going to listen now online every weekend and so can you wherever you roam this summer.

Tuesday, 6/10/08

This has been the weirdest weather I've ever seen. I thought after suffering the worst winter of our lives, we might get a nice summer. Fat chance. I started out last Saturday at a graduation/birthday for my cousin's daughter. It wasn't long into it the skies darkened, the hail started and the Arlington outdoor warning siren began to sound. I knew it would be a short party since we were in a shelter made of wood and tin and no walls. Things weren't much more peaceful at the station. I don't recall ever running more storm warnings in my long career. One would expire and two more would be issued. My heart goes out to the people of Lake Delton. It's a tourist haven, but I've had many hours of fun there. I'm not sure how they fill a lake back up to its normal level. It's not like everyone living on shore can turn on their garden hoses and fill it back up anytime soon. This will be interesting but I know things will get back to normal.
How interesting can a rock be? Very interesting to me these days. My grandpa Sam McGaw was one really legendary character. He was one of those people everybody seemed to love. When he died, his Fitchburg farm eventually became McGaw Park. My Grandpa Sam lived to be 90 years old! I hope I have those genes. Along the way he had five great children: my dad (Ken), my uncle (Don), my uncle (Stan) who I hear looked just like me. Poor guy! Also, my aunt (Eileen) and my aunt Mary. Only my aunt Mary is still alive. All five are now honored forever on a big, beautifully inscribed rock at the entrance to McGaw Park. Special thanks to my cousins Rick & Ronnie Rogers, Sam Cooke, Marc Jones all of my other Rogers cousins, my brothers and sister and the City of Fitchburg for making such an awesome monument a reality. This is the coolest rock since my pet rock of the 70's.

Wednesday, 6/3/08

I've read that the first song Sheryl Crow ever sang in public was "Downtown" by Petula Clark. I'm sure she sang it much better than I ever could at the karaoke bar. Sheryl Crow sings many good songs. I hope you can see her tonight (6/04) at our Coliseum. I've seen Sheryl Crow in concert twice and really got my money's worth both times. I also spent some quality time with her "Sheryl Crow And Friends Live In Central Park" CD back in 2004 when I thought I was dying from pneumonia. If you can't see her in person tonight, be sure and pick up that fantastic live CD.

Ok, I knew I wasn't 18 anymore about 10 years ago when people started calling me "sir" all the time. This is too much, though. Yesterday, I received my first application to the AARP! I do have a birthday this month but the big 5-0 is still down the road! Actually, my birthday is on "Saturday At The 70's" this year. If I end up playing W.O.L.D. by Harry Chapin, I just might cry.

June is a huge birthday month in my family. My late Mom's birthday is this Sunday, June 8th. This will be the first one without her. I'll have to pay her a visit at the cemetery. I couldn't quite do it on Memorial Day. Also, happy birthday to my awesome brother Bill on 6/20, my very cool cousin Steve on 6/20, my niece and Godchild (cool) Amber on 6/06, my niece Lindsay on 6/18, my nephew Brandon on 6/09 and my niece Julie as well. Happy Birthday to my sister-in-law and Christmas Eve wine drinking partner Karen. Wow! We'd better get a big cake for all of those!

Tuesday, 5/27/08

I was happy but not surprised that Johnsonville's World's Largest Bratfest broke its former record. I contributed on Sunday by eating two. Wow, were they good and only $1.50! The rest of the Memorial Day weekend was fun as well. My little brother Dennis has become quite the backyard grill chef. He grilled us some burgers and Angus burgers on Monday afternoon. Needless to say, I didn't go hungry this past weekend. I took a much-needed three mile walk this morning to make sure I'd still fit on the radio today after all of that food. My friend actually had 10 brats at Bratfest but said it was ok since he had a Diet Pepsi. Right.

In between eating so much this weekend, I heard some excellent radio. The Magic 98 #1 Weekend, of course, and also the "Big 89 Rewind" on WLS, Chicago. WLS is now a very successful talk radio station but they brought back "Music Radio WLS" and some of the legendary staff. Good stuff. It was good to hear Larry Lujack as sarcastic as ever and Fred Winston can still crack me up with his oddball twist on things. Some experts say music could actually make a comeback on AM with the new HD technology but we'll have to wait and see. I guess there isn't anything that surprises me anymore.

Monday, 5/19/08

It's only Monday and I'm really looking forward to the big holiday weekend. I do love my job but next weekend is going to be big fun! Thanks to the Magic 98 schedule gods I only have to work Monday and I'll be done early. I'm really looking forward to "Bratfest" and a bunch of my friends coming to visit from Milwaukee. Sunday you'll find me at "Bratfest" and Sunday night at Christy's Landing for karaoke. I promise not to sing "I'm Too Sexy," "Macho Man," or "Piano Man." I'll also try to save you a brat or maybe half of one! I hope you have all three days off this weekend because you deserve it. I hope I'm there to cheer on my buddy Lanette Hansen in the Madison Marathon. The price of gas is getting me down. I've never been a cheapskate but it's costing me over $60 per fill-up. I'm considering a moped or donkey as alternate transportation.

Here's something that's never happened to me before...a woman gave me flowers! Also, a really nice card that sings "What I Like About You" by The Romantics. I was having a bad day recently and I guess it showed. The nice person was my friend Lacie. She spells her name differently than the famous road. I swear she has angelic qualities like that Roma Downey who used to be on "Touched By An Angel."
I'm a regular fan of The Late Show with David Letterman. I'll definitely be watching tonight when Sara Bareilles performs. I think I have a little crush on her and I love her music! I read that Sara hasn't had much formal training. Unbelievable!

Monday, 5/12/08

Wow! It was a full house for Mother's Day yesterday at The Melting Pot. If your 1978 fondue pot went away with your chrome furniture, then The Melting Pot is for you. It was fun to spend a couple of hours with Sara Freeman since we now work on opposite sides of the building. It's weird how we all seem to have a double. Somebody that looks exactly like us. I used to work with a very nice woman named Mel. Last night I met her double. I'm not talking about slight resemblance...I mean she looked exactly like her! If I have a double, maybe he will work holidays and pay my credit card bills. Fat chance!
It's hard to believe but only two weeks until Memorial Day weekend. This also means only two weeks until "Johnsonville's World's Largest Bratfest." Let's all start fasting now. For the little money they charge for brats and refreshments you can hardly start your own grill. You'll see our Lanette there, too, as she runs the Madison Marathon. You might see her or maybe just a blue streak since she'll be moving so quickly!

Monday, 5/5/08

Fondue has come a long way since Jimmy Carter was President! Magic 98 will see you this Mother's Day (this Sunday) at "The Melting Pot Fondue Restaurant" on Odana Road. This will be my first Mother's Day since my mom passed away so it's good to have something to do to take my mind off of the holiday. Mom's eat for half price so bring your mom!

I think spring has really arrived this time. I mowed some lawn on Sunday and didn't even mind it that much. I'd much rather mow grass than shovel snow any day. Maybe I shouldn't let that get around!

Monday, 4/28/08

As you noticed on Friday, it looks like nasty spring weather has arrived! It's really good to have Gary Cannalte and his crew helping us out when the weather gets rough. Gary is a true pro as is the rest of the staff at the News 3 Weather Center. I've also noticed the really rough weather seems to roll in during my show! Gary has assured me it's nothing personal, it's just that late afternoon and early evening are common times for severe weather to develop. That's nice! Something to do with warm air meeting up with cooler evening air and not liking each other much. Besides having Gary and the crew on our side, one of those weather radios is a really good idea. I bought one about nine years ago. I was working overnights then and used to sleep in the day and sleep through anything. You name it...earthquakes, loud car stereos, thunderstorms and sonic booms. I figured one day I might sleep through a tornado and wake up in a nearby cornfield. Weather radios are often under $30 and well worth it. The alarm is annoying and loud and will send your cats up the wall or drapes but I think that's the idea. You can find them at Radio Shack, Circuit City, Sears, Wal-Mart and most major department and electronic stores.

Monday, 4/21/08

I'm thinking it's probably more of a thrill to have a tribute song or an entire tribute band in your honor while you're still alive to enjoy it! Therefore, I think the guys in Def Leppard would be impressed by the band called Photograph. They're an awesome Def Leppard tribute band I saw Saturday night at the Badger Bowl. The lead singer sounds so much like Joe Elliot of the real Def Leppard, I was thinking of having DNA samples taken backstage. The Badger Bowl still is and always been one of the best local live music venues in our area. This Saturday (4/26), it's the Journey tribute band Separate Ways. You guessed it...they're a Journey tribute band. I'll probably be there so I'll buy you a drink! Speaking of good local bands, check out Rainbow Bridge sometime. The band consists of Bob Hamann and Trevor Hoffman. Bob and Trevor are two of our mighty fine broadcast engineers here at the station. You know, the guys that fix everything we break!

I had dinner last Monday with longtime friend and radio legend Jonathan W. Little. That's always more fun than I can describe. We talked about radio, music, food and the state of the world in general. If you've never met him, he's one of the coolest people I know. It stills blows my mind. Jonathan W., David Ross, the late Clyde Coffee and Bill Vancil. Four guys I grew up listening to all became good friends of mine. I'm lucky.

I'm going to take my first bike ride of the season tonight after work. It's been a long winter so I hope I make it. If you see me "toes up" in the ditch, please call 911. Thanks, I appreciate it.

Monday, 4/14/08

When it comes to the IRS, they say those expecting a nice refund file very early. Those owing our favorite Uncle (Uncle Sam) tend to procrastinate. I can't believe how much I owe but I feel like I'm personally making a dent in our huge national deficit! Needless to say, I'm procrastinating to the bitter end and will get my taxes done tomorrow morning! I hope you're getting a nice size refund.

It's hard to believe it's been over six months since my super cool mom passed away. We've been going through the process of getting everything settled. We also need to go through the process of giving away her personal belongings. This I'm not looking forward to in the least. On a lighter note, my mom was a saver. It's become quite a lesson in family history. There's pictures of everybody in our big family from infancy through adulthood. It's fascinating! One of the highlights was seeing a baby picture of my little sister Joann. She was born in the mid 60s and died when she was barely two from a heart condition. What a cutie she was! Also a picture of me from 1976 with a haircut like Kelso from "That 70's Show."
Along with my radio job I love, for the past nine years I've spun the hits at Pearl's nightclub on the east side. We've learned that Pearl's will close to make room for a big banquet room in its place. It was literally a job I fell into without trying. I would go in there with my friends and Angela Stricker, who was the DJ at the time, kept trying to hire me and I kept saying no. Then she mentioned something about playing whatever music I wanted and I was sold! At its peak, Pearl's was quite the club, packing them in nightly. Its close proximity to the airport brought in many celebrities. I personally got to meet Jessica Simpson in 2001. Lionel Richie, Kenny Rogers, Britney and the Spin Doctors all came through the front doors. The rumor in 2000 was that Al Gore was there and Secret Service snuck him out through the kitchen. I've had a blast and made many friends including Angela Stricker, Mike & Joe Nevins, Phil Mielke, Amy Gold, Leah, Jim Hagen, Dino, Lacie McCredie, Michelle Thompson and the list goes on and on for miles. Not to mention thousands of customers I now call close friends like Jerry Fitzgerald, Wil and all the rest. Thanks to all my friends at Pearl's and the Crowne Plaza, Madison, for at least a million laughs and a job that wasn't a job at all but Jim's playtime! I guess it couldn't last forever. Nothing good ever does.

Tuesday, 4/1/08

I'm back! I'm all rested up from a week of vacation time. I didn't do anything really exotic but visited a few friends and had some quality rest and relaxation time. I didn't realize how many telemarketers actually call until I was home all day. I guess they don't take any vacation. I wanted to send out some well wishes to my friends Anthony and Sally. Check this out...Anthony just lost his mom to cancer. This after losing eight family members to cancer in 2007. Unbelievable! Also, my friend Sally is having quite a run of bad luck too. In January, her boyfriend died suddenly. Then, just a few weeks ago, her dad was diagnosed with a brain tumor. I'll never understand why such nice people have such rotten luck!

Monday, 3/17/08

Well, my Girl Scout cookies came in over the weekend. Wow! I really didn't need ten boxes but I'm always glad to help out when I can. I hope I have enough milk for all of those Thin Mints. It might be easier to just buy a cow. I know I'll never eat ten boxes of cookies or I wouldn't fit on the radio. Good thing I have some friends that like Thin Mints as much as I do.
Here it is St. Patrick's Day and I'm shamefully not wearing any green. What can I say, the green "Peter Pan" tights just don't fit like they used to. Oddly enough, I don't even like corned beef and cabbage, either. I'd much rather have Italian, Chinese or Mexican food. My name is 100 percent Irish and I hear my great grandfather Stuart McGaw came over on the boat from Ireland. However, I do like green beer, Shamrock Shakes, Van Morrison, U2 and Enya so maybe I'm more authentic than I think. Ireland is a place I will visit someday before I die. My brother John went there while in the Navy and said the phone book has about a million McGaws listed.

Monday, 2/18/08
Wow! That was a storm yesterday. I think it was probably like the type our grandparents used to brag about and we just thought they were losing their minds. I'm convinced after this brutal winter my little red truck will go through anything. It might even go through quicksand. During the last few big snowstorms, I've talked to people that have actually camped out at work! Probably not a bad idea but there's just something about cuddling on our lobby sofa with Bob Bonner I'm just not comfortable with. I was thinking how we just have to get though March but remembered how March can be one of the worst.

I hope you had an excellent Valentine's Day! Making Magic 98 deliveries was fun. I'm surprised I didn't end up getting hitched with the handy Cupid work Lanette and I pulled off on Thursday. Yes, the Magic 98 staff is very suave. I also made one personal Valentine's Day delivery on Thursday. That was fun! It was for a very sweet friend of mine who has enough energy to light up all of New York City. She was very understanding when I forgot the card that went along with the goods! I received an afternoon e-mail that read, "Uh, Jim, were those treats from you?" Nice going, Mr. Smooth. At least I didn't eat her candy in my truck on the way to her office.

I guess the next big holiday is St. Patrick's Day. You'd think with a name of McGaw I'd love all that Irish food but not really. I have been known to indulge in a green beer or two. I've also already quizzed McDonald's as to when the Shamrock shakes will be here.

Sunday, 2/3/08

She's not around to give a big hug to so my heart goes out here online to Sue Peterson. Sue is everything you hear on air on Magic. Funny, knowledgeable about the music and high energy! Sue lost her father last week. Her mom died several years ago. Sue and I have talked about this subject at length. Even as an adult it's very weird not to have any parents anymore. My mom and dad are both gone and it's a really empty feeling. I know she'll back up to speed in no time. I met her dad several times over the years and he was a fun-loving character, much like Sue!

Monday, 1/21/08

Ah, so close and yet so far! I'm glad yesterday's game is over because it almost gave me a heart attack to watch it. It could have gone either way and of course it didn't go the way we wanted it. I can't believe it's been ten years since we went to the 'bowl. At least we'll get to watch Tom Petty at the Superbowl! That's bound to be good. Maybe now that's it over for the "Pack" those Favre stocking caps will be easier to find.

Many birthdays in my circle in January. Happy Birthday to my little brother Dennis, my brother Pat, my cousin Rusty, my sister-in-law Linda, my friend Mary and my friend Liz Terry. I'd better go bake a big cake.

Wednesday, 12/26/07

I hope you had a wonderful Christmas! Wow, I ate like a large hungry swine. All my clothes seem to still fit so that's a good sign. My sister-in-law (Karen) showed up on Christmas Eve with the "Wine in a Box." It's a great tradition at our house. Over my vacation I was able to spend time with many friends. Sunday night plans were scrapped due to the weather. That was harsh on Sunday night! I think my mom & dad would have been pleased with the way our annual Christmas Eve bash turned out. Good times, good times. I bought some really good Christmas cookies at Copp's. I told everyone I baked them myself. Nobody believed me. I hope your Christmas was fun. For all the work it is it sure ends up being a blast every year. I think I might have a new favorite Christmas song. The song is anything but new! It's "Zat You Santa Claus" by Louis Armstrong. Total classic. I think many other singers have done it including Garth Brooks but the Louis Armstrong version is the best.

You should hear my new stereo in my truck. Then again, maybe you have! I just had it installed on Saturday at The Radio Doctor. His store is open after a bad fire in June. The doctor did a totally professional job. I was very impressed. My new stereo is very loud. It even has a USB port to hook up an iPod right through my car stereo. Now I won't have to fumble with CDs while I'm cruising down the Beltline. Consider yourself much safer.

The Magic staff is very excited about the return of Gary "Indiana" Cannalte. It will good to wake up to Pat, Bob & Gary once again. I wonder if Pat still has the "Gary Indiana" song? We'll find out in January.

Tuesday, 12/18/07

Do not be alarmed! I'll be off the air through December 24th for a long winter's nap! Actaully, I plan on having tons of fun. When my friends find out I'm free there isn't much winter napping at all! I've been keeping my Christmas spirit up considering the sad year it has been. But, then again, my mom and all of the other dearly departed wouldn't want us sitting around all depressed. So party on we will!

I've been enjoying the Christmas music on Magic 98. OK, so I'm a little biased and somewhat of a captive audience. But it's still hard to beat Band Aid, Sting, Barenaked Ladies, Paul McCartney and my current favorite "The Man With The Bag" by Diana Krall. She's a class act. She's also very beautiful. I bet her husband Elvis Costello keeps plenty of mistletoe around. If I were married to her, I'd grow a field of it next to the house! I'll probably avoid "Blue Christmas" this year since my mom died. In fact, my mom always hated that song after my dad died. She loved ol' Elvis but hated that song.

I read a funny story today about "Grandma Got Run Over By A Reindeer" by Elmo & Patsy. I guess these days Elmo is a practicing veterinarian. Elmo and Patsy were a husband & wife duo. They have since divorced. I bet doing that song over and over did their marriage in over time.

My heartfelt condolences to fans, friends and family of Dan Fogelberg. I had the pleasure of interviewing him on Magic back in 2003. It was his final concert here at the Civic Center. I was told beforehand that Dan could be kind of grumpy sometimes but I didn't get that vibe at all. He really warmed up when I mentioned his sailboat. I told him he should move here since we have plenty of water all around us. I think his music will hold up for many years to come. You probably remember his song "The Power Of Gold" with Tim Weisberg. I love that song! All of his songs are awesome. He was one of our "once in a lifetime" talents.

So, anyway...Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays. Enjoy and love all of your friends and family this time of the year. You're lucky to have them. Donate where you can. That's what it's really all about. Many thanks for helping out with our Holiday Wish!

Friday, 11/30/07

There's a great new invention for the holiday season: LED Christmas lights. They claim they use 90% less juice than the conventional Christmas lights. I checked them out at Menards and Home Depot. They even have kind of a different glow to them. Very cool. Another great feature is the bulbs will last up to twenty years longer than conventional Christmas lights. This new low-maintenance form of lighting would give you much more free time during the hectic holiday season to buy my presents, bake me some cookies and drink more Tom & Jerry drinks! LED lighting is the wave of the future. I've heard the City of Madison has changed some of the traffic signal lights over to LED bulbs. The red warning lights on the huge NBC 15 tower are LED type lights as well. I'm not sure about Rudolph's nose.

Monday, 11/19/07

I did the Magic 98 Morning Show today for the first time in months with Bob. I haven't seen Bob since before his heart attack so I was looking forward to this all weekend! Bob looks great. He told me how he works out and jogs now. I'm like, "What have you done with Bob"? Along with being impressed with Bob's dedication to his lifestyle change and willpower, during the midst of his recovery process Bob sent me a nice card and note when my mom passed away in September. Bob lost his mom last October so we can relate very well on the subject.

Looking forward to the holiday season ahead. My family wants to keep things as festive and normal as possible, That's the way my mom and late sister Jane would have wanted it. Not everybody sitting around all gloomy and depressed.

I hope you have a great Thanksgiving! I'll be working Thursday morning so feel free to slide a pumpkin pie (or two) under the door.

I'm very impressed with Lanette who has started her Christmas shopping already. Why, she must have received my list! I swear every year I'll do it early but it never happens. I'm usually at the all night Shopko on the 23rd of December. One year while I was checking out at 3am, I realized it was the same checkout guy from a year before. He recognized me, too! He said, "You again. Have you ever thought about doing this a little earlier?"

Monday, 11/5/07

I'm glad to say I finally finished off all of the Halloween candy at home. I'm also glad to say after finishing off all of the Halloween candy, I can still fit on the radio and my seatbelt still fits! Halloween is such a good time. This was actually the first year I did deliveries with Magic 98. I usually take the day off for an exorcism but not this year. What fun I had cruising around with Lanette as "Lucy"; I myself was "The Grinch." Many thanks to Brennan's for the treats and to Mallatt's for the costumes. It was a busy October and I didn't even carve a pumpkin this year. I usually do my "Jason Hockey Mask" face and my much kinder 70's "Have A Nice Day" pumpkin but not this year. The artificial pumpkins that Walgreen's sells are so close to real thing I don't know if I need all the hassle of a real one.

It's good to have everybody back on Magic 98 at their regular times. At least right up until the holiday season. Bob is sounding happy and healthy. I never dwell on the negative but this has been one of the stranger years I've ever seen. I plan on drinking plenty of champagne on New Year's eve! So long '07 and come on in 2008!

I'm looking forward to having lunch this Thursday with Liz Terry and a local radio legend named Ben Benedetti. I hope Ben's public will leave him alone and let him eat. Many years ago, I was having lunch with another local radio legend named Clyde Coffee. Clyde was so well known I don't think he got to eat half his lunch because people kept bugging him. He just took it all in stride and laughed it off.

Tuesday, 10/9/07

As you might guess, I had a really good time providing music for "World Dairy Expo". I couldn't help but notice how friendly the Canadians are. They seem to love Wisconsin and the Packers! The don't seem to like our president, though. It's no wonder Bryan Adams & Celine Dion recorded all the those love songs considering how friendly the Canadians are.

We're all looking forward to Bob Bonner's return. I've heard from many people that Bob will be a changed man. Some say he will be more subdued and less animated. Let's hope that doesn't happen! I'm glad he's alright since we were all very scared, although probably not as scared as Bob. It sounds like Bob has already kicked a few bad habits. I'll try not to lead him into temptation by leaving any chicken wings or Little Debbie's lying around the station. Lanette has been doing a great job filling for Bob. She used to get up at 5am for her workout but lately it's been more like 3am. She'll probably be really glad to see Bob!

John Mellencamp tickets are selling well but there are still plenty left. He's one of my favorites and I've seen him three times. It's well worth the price of admission.

Tuesday, 10/2/07

It's time for the annual " World Dairy Expo." As usual, I get to provide the music over at the Sheraton Hotel. I've been doing this since 1998. It's a total blast and a chance to meet people from all over the world. However, keep in mind many of these people don't get off the farm much and probably don't stay up much past 9pm. This week they will be far from the farm, up late and drinking everything but milk. This should be interesting. It usually is. I've seen everything from dancing on tables, fights, mosh pits and even the police showing up with tear gas! The good news is they do manage to keep the farm animals out of the hotel. I've enjoyed a great relationship with the Sheraton for many years and look forward to this every year.

Ok, it's time to roll credits after coming off the worst experience of my life. Many thanks to my huge family: Ed, Dave, Sam, Pat, John, Bill, Jean & Dennis, my sisters-in-law Karen, Kathy & Linda, all the Rogers boys and Kohlman cousins. Love you guys. Couldn't have got through it without you. Happy belated birthday to Ed & Jean. It kind of got overshadowed by mom's passing.

Also, my work family...Pat, Bob, Amy, Liz, Lanette, Sue Peterson, Juli Hinds, Chris Murphy, Amy Hudson, Jolene Neis, Tom Walker and everybody here at Mid-West Family Broadcasting. Your kindesss and pateince will never be forgotten.

Finally, all my close buddies who pulled me through...Randy "Big I" Krueger, Gary Kootchar, Mark Stuart, Jim Burns, Angela Sticker, Sandy Monger, Mike Nevins, Joe Nevins, Jamie, Michelle Thompson, Tammy Trines, Laci McCredie, Rachel Beck, Trip, Justin, Brian "O" and David Haight.

Many listeners sent cards and e-mails. I was blown away by the response. Wow. I just thought I was some dork on the radio. Little by little I'm getting back in the groove. You guys are the best!

Monday, 9/17/07

My fearless mom had a funny way of looking at death. She'd say, "When your number is up..." or "When God pulls the switch...." Sadly, her number came up Sunday morning at 1:36am. She died in the house she loved surrounded my most of her children that loved her plus one cat at her feet. My brother Sam describes her best as "The Real Heavyweight Champion of the World." Interesting title, since she was only 4-11 (or 4-11and 3/4 as she would remind you). She was a heavyweight champ, though, as she took on some tough opponents in her life. She buried her husband in 1971, both of her parents, all of her sisters, her brother and two daughters, my sisters Joanna in 1965 and Jane in 1999. Throw in a house fire, home burglary and all the stress a large family can put on you and her track record was nothing less than amazing. The one opponent she couldn't beat was cancer. I hate it. It took my sister and now my mom. I hate it with all of my soul. She leaves behind nine children, several grandchildren, great grandchildren and a bunch of broken hearts. I really lucked out in the mom department. I could have not been blessed with a better mom. She was kind, funny, smart and very headstrong. Also a workaholic. Any good personality traits I may have I directly attribute to my parents. The bad ones I learned on my own. I take full responsibility. She liked country music but would still listen to me on the radio. She would quote me on things I'd say. That was cool! Her Christmas Eve parties are legendary and she never forgot a birthday. We always had new clothes for school and every toy we wanted. She loved animals. Many strays found a good home at her cozy Fitchburg house including Target and Lucky, her two well-fed cats that currently rule her house. Recently, she had wild turkeys roaming around her yard. If she could have coaxed then into the house, they'd probably be pets, too. After all the children she raised, she still loved little babies. She would light up when she saw them at the store. She liked Chevy's but really liked to ride in my Ford truck. It sits up kind of high but she managed to climb right in there!

I love her alot and will miss her everyday until I die. I've had way too many people die on me lately so please be careful. I'll catch you later mom. Wow! Think of the family reunion we'll have! For now, say "hi" to everybody.

Tuesday, 9/4/07

Many Magic 98 listeners have said this "Taste Of Madison" stage was our best ever! I would agree. Everybody sounded amazing. Big thanks to Clear Blue Betty, Blue Olives, Robbie Dupree, John Ford Coley and all the others. Eggrolls and the beer were quite tasty, too! I hope you made it down there and I hope you had fun. I ran into many friends and the weather was perfect.

Life can really throw you a curve ball when you're cruising along in happy mode. This year it has thrown me way too many. In February, I lost my awesome Aunt Eileen (Myrtle) to cancer. Since then, I've lost three more awesome aunts (Kathy, Sally and Theresa) and my friend Tim Hoel in a car accident. Just when you've had enough, something else happens. I learned last weekend my mom has terminal cancer. It's in her lungs, liver, bones and at this point probably in her socks and shoes. She has limited time left on this earth. I always assumed my mom was somehow immortal...as tough as she is. I guess I was wrong. This is the biggest nightmare I've ever dealt with in my life. I'm lucky to have the support of our great family, great co-workers and friends. If I disappear from the radio for awhile I wanted you to know why. Cherish your friends and family while we're all still here. Settle all petty differences. Take it from me. You just never know.

Wednesday, 8/29/07

I hope your basement is safe and dry! I'm glad the President granted disaster relief to the parts of Wisconsin that really need it. The recent floods made me remember a funny or just maybe really stupid thing I once did. It was the summer of 1993 and we had heavy rains that summer as well. Our original studio was on Syene Road (see Pat's blog) in a swamp. Just south of our building was Nine Springs Creek. I think Nine Springs Creek has 12 or 13 springs when it rains really hard because it will sometimes flood and close Syene Road. After pulling my former overnight shift on that fateful summer morning, I decided to brave the raging flood waters and ride my motorcycle right on through where Syene Road used to be. I thought the water would only be about a foot deep but it was quickly up over my legs and rising. Like a faithful horse my motorcycle never even stalled but it seemed like it would take forever to get all the way through. How embarrassing to know my childhood hero Evil Knievel would have just leaped over the washed-out bridge. These days Chuck Norris would drink the flood water and spit it out of his way.

Monday, 8/20/07

Just when I was getting over the excitement of "WKRP IN CINCINNATI" being released on DVD, I've learned that "Hawaii Five-0" is now out on DVD as well. Wasn't that the best cop show ever? I've read many articles about the show and many cast members say Jack Lord wasn't the tough guy cop that he portrayed as Steve McGarrett. Cast members say he was very quiet and easygoing. I guess he liked to read poetry on the set. Who knew? Jack Lord died in 1998. The DVD series includes every single episode except one. Juli Hinds and I agree that "Hawaii Five-0" had one of the best show openings in TV history. Jack Lord was such a cool guy!

Speaking of cool guys, last Thursday was the 30th anniversary of the death of Elvis Presley. Elvis has sold over one billion records! I think the songs are awesome and really hold up over time. I like his early music the best. It had a raw quality to it that seemed to be rooted in gospel and blues. Although the movies were cheesy, I still watch them. "Jailhouse Rock" from 1957 has one of the greatest rock videos ever when Elvis and his cellmates do the "Jailhouse Rock." I have one fun Elvis story. It's not as cool as the gas station one but I'll tell it anyway. A woman I know used to be a maid at the Sheraton hotel here in Madison. Elvis always stayed at the Sheraton since it was across the street from the Coliseum where he played. Elvis remembered her and brought her a present every time he played here. There was an urban legend at one time that there was an underground tunnel from the Sheraton to the Coliseum under John Nolen Drive so Elvis could avoid the hysteria. My friends at the Sheraton have assured me there was no such tunnel! Elvis with all of his fame and fortune gave away millions to the down and out. He also remembered a sweet little housekeeper at the Sheraton. That's a cool guy.

Tuesday, 7/17/07

I can't believe we're past the halfway point for "Concerts On The Square" already! I hope if you haven't signed up yet you will soon. This week Lanette joins me for dinner plus eight more of our wonderful listeners. Maestro Andrew Sewell is such a class act. He does such an amazing job at making the weekly concert a mass appeal event. This week is a Caribbean theme which is perfect for summer. It will include a Beach Boys tribute. No word on if Lanette will be sporting dreadlocks for the show.

A very special thanks to Donna from Delavan. Donna noticed that my official "Here Comes Jimmy McGaw" theme song that starts each Jimmy McGaw show at 3pm is based on the old Quickdraw McGraw cartoon jingle. Donna sent me an official Quickdraw McGraw ring! Nice! Hey Donna, does this mean we're engaged?

Monday, 7/9/07

It wasn't quite like having my name in lights on Hollywood Boulevard but it was quite an honor! This past Saturday I provided my DJ skills for the Highwoods Clubhouse near Edgerton. Upon arrival, there was my name on a big wooden sign at the end of driveway leading to the clubhouse. While I was walking around the inside of the clubhouse, I noticed a picture on the door that was actually about half the size of the door! I thought "Who's that grinning bumpkin?" Then I realized it was me! Thanks to Highwoods Clubhouse for a great night of fun, fireworks and really good people!

Monday, 6/18/07

I received an interesting call on a recent Saturday night. A very nice woman named Julie Berlow was once married to a man named Rusty Berlow. Rusty was better known to Madison radio listeners as Rusty Hudson in the late 1970's. Julie had some great stories for me. Rusty was also a club DJ at the old Stone Hearth down at at the end of Park St. here in Madison. I remember a good friend of mine who almost got us beaten up on a cold night in 1982. My friend made a rather bold pass at a beautiful woman inside the Stone Hearth. Next thing I know we're running down the railroad tracks with about five huge linebackers from the Badger football team chasing us! The Stone Hearth isn't around anymore. I think a condo stands there now at the end of Park St. I don't hang around with that friend much anymore, either! I don't know if I can run as fast as I could in 1982.

I'll be picking up my new motorcycle in about two weeks. This is very cool. I was lucky to meet the "Hanley" in Hanley's of Sun Prairie last Thursday. That's probably where I'll get the motorcycle. Tom Hanley is the owner and a very nice gentleman. I thought they just sold lawnmowers.

Happy Birthday to my niece Lindsay today. She was born in 1978. Super awesome mom and a super awesome niece! Happy belated birthdays to my other awesome nieces Amber on June 6th, Juli on June 2nd and my nephew Brandon on June 9th. You guys rock! I'm one lucky uncle.

Monday, 5/7/07

The Magic 98 staff took a little field trip last Friday. We went to Milwaukee for a nice little tour. No, it wasn't a brewery or we'd still be there with me in the car! We went to "Gilda's Club" in downtown Milwaukee. Our tour guide was Rosemary. She 's a lovely litttle Italian woman that kept wanting to feed us! The tour was inspiring and interesting. Best of all, the Magic staff didn't leave me at a highway rest stop along the way. Our "Magic 98 Concert For Gilda's Club" starts June 6th. With a little luck and your support, our Gilda's Club will open its red door soon.

My heart goes out to everyone in Kansas after the tornado damage of this past weekend. It almost seems like tornados are getting bigger and bigger each year with more destruction. Perhaps it's just more population density and more areas are easily hit by one storm. I used to think I wanted to see a tornado from a safe distance but not anymore. After the Stoughton tornado a couple of years back and the videos I saw, I've changed my mind. The movie "Twister" and the movie "The Wizard Of Oz" are as close as I need to get to a tornado. I was on the air during the Stoughton tornado and it was eerie, to say the least! We went off the air for about 15 minutes and I was in the studio waiting for the roof to get sucked off and myself getting whisked away to Munchkin Land where, considering my height, I might get elected Mayor.

Thursday, 4/26/07

You probably don't think of a radio guy like me as a rugged outdoorsman but what an adventure I'm planning for the summer! My friends Mike, Mike and Joe and I are planning a camping trip. I used to love to camp when I was about 14 but learned to prefer the amenities a hotel could offer over a tick-infested north woods. My good friend Rick owns a huge farm near Oxford. He has invited us to camp on his land which has a stream and many wooded acres. If "Bigfoot" doesn't raid our coolers, drive off in my truck or fall in love with one of us, it should be one great time! Rick has warned us his land is home to many coyotes that love to feast on small wildlife and hopefully not a bunch of goofy guys drinking beer and eating s'mores around the campfire. We hope Rick can join us but we're not sure his wife wants him up that late. Rick has also mentioned that he has a mean bull that sometimes get loose on his farm. I should remember not to bring a red tent. I should also remember to check and see if the Oxford area has a Motel 6.

Tuesday night was a blast for me! My former boss and longtime friend Bill Vancil invited me over to his groovy pad in the country. We did some catching up, had some pizza and watched "American Idol". I think Bill and I are both pulling for Melinda. She has a kind of a powerful Gladys Knight sound. That "Blake" kid is o-k but it was hard to hear somebody other than John Lennon sing "Imagine". It was good to see Bill. He's the guy that hired me way back when! In fact, Bill and Jonathan W. Little were the only two guys that were kind enough to talk to me when I went looking for that big radio break on my spring break, 1983.

Monday, 4/23/07

I used to think it was odd that they put televison shows on DVD but now I'm loving it. I've even bought a few. I was excited to learn that "WKRP In Cincinnati" will be released on DVD this Tuesday (4/24). There is one little catch. Because of music licensing issues, the original hit songs have been edited from the DVD series. That means we won't be hearing "Hot Blooded" by Foreigner while Less Nessman gets ready for his hot date with Jennifer (Loni Anderson) by putting on his fake hair! It will still be good to see the show on DVD since I haven't seen it on TV in many years. Gordon Jump, who played station boss Arthur Carlson, was one of the funniest people on that show. I was sad when he died a few years ago. I was driving down I-90 recently and Gordon's image was still on a truck as The Maytag Man! It made me smile. The first in the DVD series will be season one when WKRP premiered on CBS in 1978. That means we'll get to watch the classic Thanksgiving episode all over again. I'm not sure if the nice people at PETA find that as funny as I do.

It's historical (or maybe hysterical) to hear Casey Kasem mention the stations that "American Top 40 - The 70's" was running on back then. For example, WYXE in Sun Prairie or WRKR in Racine. Those two aren't around anymore. He also plays some songs I forgot about long ago. The countdown is very interesting within the first hour when he's counting down hits number 40-30. If you haven't heard it yet, it's on Magic 98 every Saturday night from 9pm-12midnight. What a retro trip!

Wednesday, 4/18/07

I knew there was a reason I was procrastinating on filing my taxes. Ouch! I'll have it paid off in a couple years or so. I hope you did better than me. For what I owe Uncle Sam I should get a room at the White House.

I had a great vacation last week. I didn't do anything super exotic like visit Paris in the springtime or anything. I just caught up with many friends who never see me and think I'm dead. Lunch with my friend Annette was really nice in Monroe at Baumgartner's on the square. I hadn't seen Annette in like twenty years. She said I looked the same. Yeah right.

Here's one I haven't done before. I was recently at a wedding reception and I accidentally walked into the women's restroom. When I walked in there it was empty but I soon heard voices coming in behind me. Women's voices, not men's. I hid out in the stall until the coast was clear. I guess you can't take me anywhere. If I would have been thinking, I should have written my phone number on the wall.

Wednesday, 4/4/07

The big news here is that REO Speedwagon might be coming by the station tomorrow. These guys have always been one of my favorite bands in concert. I've seen them many times, including a 1987 show at the Dane County Coliseum. The Georgia Satellites opened for them at that show and I went to the show with Sara Freeman! Good times, good times!

I think this is the weekend I'll take a longer mountain bike ride. My mountain bike has an aluminum frame. I bet it's made out of all the recycled beer cans I once popped open. How appropriate I ride it for several miles. Hey, that's really water in the thermos!

Pat O'Neill has inspired me to finally get one of the HD radios. I checked one out at Radio Shack and Circuit City last night. I haven't heard Magic 98 in digital sound yet but I can't wait. I wonder if it will make me sound taller. My friends say it sounds like I'm using steroids. I think Pat & Bob are going for a James Earl Jones sound. There's a cool list at the C. Crane Company that shows all the stations in America that are now broadcasting in HD. Their site is http://www.ccrane.com/. They sell HD radios and all kinds of cool electronic toys!

Monday, 4/2/07

I find myself hooked on the new Christina Aguilera CD. Her voice is amazing! The cover isn't bad either! I'm pretty sure for the "Candyman" song she borrowed "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy" but it's still a cool song. Get ready to spank your radio this month. Happy Birthday to Kathryn Vaughn, Bob Bonner and Sara Freeman this month. I'd tell you how old they are but then they'd have to kill me!

Thursday, 3/29/07

I finally took the fall and caught the station flu bug...102 fever and serious vertigo! I haven't had bedspins like that since coming home late from the last bachelor party I went to a few years back. I'm feeling good and glad to be back on the radio. I get a little stir crazy after a couple of days at home. I watched a really funny TV show called "Still Standing" on CW 57.

Bob and I were the Magic Muffin Men this morning. What a retro trip that turned out to be! We went to Oregon's Prarie View School which was the Oregon Middle School when I went there roughly 100 years ago. Nancy was kind enough to give me the tour of a place I hadn't seen in a long time. My favorite place was the auditorium or as they called it the "The Little Theatre". Cool place with green carpet and awesome lighting and sound equipment. We had many plays and school productions there. I recall the front of the "Little Theatre" used to fill up with water since the school was built on a swamp. The trip also brought back memories of my first experience of rejection from a girl. Her name was Jolynn. I was in sixth grade and she was in fifth. I bought her a box of Valentine's Day candy. A couple of days later she punched me! Ah, always the Casanova.

Monday, 3/26/07

It's going to be really hard to stay inside all day today at the radio station. Maybe if I play the speakers really loudly the boss will kick me outside this afternoon! I'll probably take my first mountain bike ride of the season tomorrow morning before work. If I'm not on the air tomorrow afternoon, you'll know I was more out of shape than I realized and probably keeled over in a ditch somewhere. If I see a beautiful woman in a sports car, maybe I'll play dead and get some CPR. I learned that trick from "The Sandlot" movie
where the kid fakes his drowning so the cute lifeguard gives him CPR.

It's looking really good for me getting a motorcycle this spring. The nice lady at my credit union said it shouldn't be a problem. I loved how blunt she was. She basically said, "If you miss the payments, we'll just come and ride it away." Fair enough! I just have to narrow it down to one. I'm torn between three right now.

Thursday, 3/22/06

That was quite a thunderstorm last night! Now we know spring is really here. The official sign of spring here at Magic 98 is when Bob starts wearing shorts to work. Actually, the real sign of spring is when the Magic staff all start wearing sunglasses to work to block the glow from my ultra-white legs when I wear shorts to work.

Have you checked us out on the weekends lately? Casey Kasem is now working harder than any of us on Saturday. He's on twice! American Top 10 and American Top 40 The 70's. Both great shows and it's interesting to hear the variety of music on the 70's show. In the 70's it wasn't uncommon to hear Jethro Tull, Barry Manilow, Boston and C.W. McCall in the same hour of an American Top 40 countdown.

Wednesday, 3/14/07

Since my last name is very Irish, I'll be taking a couple of days off this week to celebrate. As Irish as I am, I don't seem to care for corn beef or cabbage. I would much rather eat Italian or Mexican food. I do remain true to my heritage by enjoying a McDonald's shamrock shake and some green beer. I try not to drink them both at the same time. I do love some genuine Irish beer such as Guinness or Smithwick's. I promise not to pour any on my Lucky Charms. Have a fun, safe and happy St. Patrick's day! The Magic afternoon show will be in good hands with Sara Freeman & Liz Terry.

Monday, 3/12/07

I always like to let you know when I buy an excellent new CD. The Magic 98 Prize Closet was fresh out of John Mellencamp's new one called '"Freedom's Road" so I had to actually buy it! It was well worth it since every song on there is good. John actually utilized some older analog recording technology which makes the CD sound really warm and full.

As much as I enjoyed playing Boston's "Don't Look Back" on Saturday morning on Magic, I was saddened by the death of Brad Delp, Boston's lead singer. I received the "Don't Look Back" album as a Christmas gift in 1978 and never grew tired of listening to it. Boston's website simply said "We've just lost the nicest guy in rock 'n' roll." If there really is a Rock 'n' Roll Heaven, think of the awesome band they must have: Elvis, John Lennon, George Harrison, Jimi Hendrix, Bill Haley, Otis Redding, Sam Cooke, Wilson Pickett, Jim Croce, Marvin Gaye, Janis Joplin...the list is a mile long! I'm not in a hurry to get tickets for that concert, though!

Friday, 3/9/07

Some very cool things are coming to our "Saturday at the 70s" show. Stay tuned to Magic 98. That's all I can say or they will have to kill me!

If you like 70's music, in its original form, I have found two sources in Madison for vinyl records. My good friend Craig is loading up his jukebox with 45's so I hunted these down: Mad City Music Exchange on Willy Street and Resale Records on Commercial Avenue.

I did it in 2003 and haven't done it since. Several of my friends and I are planning our next summer mountain bike tour. Last time we made it as far as The Grumpy Troll in Mt. Horeb. It wasn't a bad place to be since it was about 107 degrees that day.

Tuesday, 3/6/07

I'm slowly getting my workday groove back on after three big days off from radio. I had fun going to and being Mr. DJ for my friend Vicki's wedding reception in Lake Geneva. Vicki & I used to work together many years ago. Crowd was highly spirited but well-behaved. We didn't destroy the Riviera Ballroom in Lake Geneva but we tried! I used to drive through that area a lot when I was a student way back in the 80s! Yikes! That really is getting to be a long time ago. Delavan has changed much since then but I think Lake Geneva looked pretty much the same. When we were in school, a friend of mine used to work at the Lake Geneva AM radio station (WMIR) 1550. It was Top 40 then but now it has a different name and it's all religious programming. I bet he doesn't work there anymore as I recall how he used to party! Lake Geneva also used to have an exotic male dance club. None of us ever worked there. There's a shock!

Thursday, 3/1/07

I've been lucky enough to avoid the "bug" that's going around the city and the station. I've noticed it seems to help to sleep alot during the flu season. This works out nicely since I'm a big a fan of sleep! Lanette and I have been working different shifts while Amy Abbott was "down for the count". I've been taking more vitamins as I age. I've sort of outgrown the Flintstones chewables but try to take a good multiple in hopes that I still might grow taller! I also try and consume Omega 3 as often as possible. Omega 3 is good for skin, circulation and brain power. I haven't won a spelling bee since I've beeen taking Omega 3 but I'll let you know when it happens.

The station has been kind enough to give me this Friday off from work. In fact, I have a three day weekend coming! Wow! I just wanted to let you know so you didn't think I was dead, missing, fired or kidnapped. I'm heading down to Lake Geneva for a friend's wedding. I'll probably take the scenic Janesville route down there so I can visit Dunkin' Donuts in Janesville and my friend Craig in Delavan. Delavan has one of the last cobblestone main streets I know of in Wisconsin. It's kind of cool unless you have loose fillings in your teeth.

Monday, 2/26/07

Yes, it was an adventurous weekend here at the radio station. I bet your driving experience was adventurous as well. Some of our staffers were unable to make it to the station so we had "Camp Magic" set up here. When I arrived shortly after 7pm on Saturday, it looked like a slumber party. I was waiting for the pajama party to start up around 10. That was one of the most bizarre snowstorms I've ever seen, with thunder and lightning along with the heavy snow and wind. I learned that when we receive thundersnow, it actually snows harder! Nice!

Hats off to Mark Van Allen, Chris Murphy, Sue Peterson and Tricia Paige. They all managed to blaze a trail through the snow to keep the station running in one of the worst blizzards in 17 years. I gladly got to do an extra weekend shift on "Sunday at the 80s". I usually don't do the Sunday show so that was loads of fun. I especially enjoyed the breakdancing, although I may have a few
rug burns from the studio carpet.

My new Ford Ranger pickup with four wheel drive was superb in even the deepest snow on my way home late Saturday night. I didn't get stuck even once. McCoy Road wasn't much of a road at all when I came blazing through after 1am. I think I might have done better to drive on the bike path over to the right of McCoy Road.

I hope you were warm and safe and out of the ditch all weekend long.

Wednesday, 2/21/07

I had a great Mardi Gras night at The Hody Bar in Middleton! Good band, good food and my good friend Kerry from our sales staff all on hand. I've never been to the real Mardi Gras but wouldn't mind checking it out sometime. My brother did it once and said he never had so much fun. Hody has alot of space if you're planning an upcoming party. Nice people, too.

It's really hard to keep a new vehicle like new! I discovered a small stone chip in the windshield of my groovy new truck. Hey, that's why we have insurance. If we have any more hail storms like last year, I might end up with many stone chips in my windshield. I like my new truck so much I've become sort of overly protective and slightly paranoid. I swear I'd park it in our lobby if the lobby doors would open just a little wider.

Monday, 2/19/07

I just concluded a very intense weekend. Funeral services for my aunt (see previous blog) were actaully very uplifting. Does that sound strange? Saint James church did an amazing job of celebrating her life and not focusing on the sadness of her death. I commend them. My uncle Fred gave an incredible speech as well. Afterward, I managed my airshift with all that fun 70's music to take my mind off things. Later on that night, my good friend Randy and I went out on the town. I have found the ultimate margarita. It lives at Tumbleweed Steakhouse on East Washington Ave. in Madison. Jimmy Buffett might just do another maragarita song if he ever has one of these! The "Texarita" size is roughly the size of a birdbath or the Olympic Torch. Always have a designated driver if you have one of these.

I watched the Daytona 500 on Sunday. Our hometown hero Matt Kenseth was put out of contention as were many superstars. That truly was some wild television! I've wondering for years what it's like to go 180 mph in a car. I promise I'll never try it on the Beltline.

Friday, 2/16/07

I wanted to take a couple of minutes to salute my late and great aunt Eileen Carlson...or as we always called her, aunt Myrtle! She was my dad's younger sister and the greatest aunt a guy could ask for in one lifetime. Aunt Myrtle raised seven sons (no girls) who were pretty much like another set of brothers for me. Not that I needed anymore since I have seven great brothers of my own plus two awesome sisters at one time. Aunt Myrtle's third youngest son Rusty was my best buddy growing up in the 70's. We did everything together and Aunt Myrtle let us get away with more than we should have. Her other sons Randy, Ronnie and Rick (twins), Bud, Steve and Scott are the best cousins in the world. They all think it's neat that I'm on the radio! When my dad died in 1971 and when my sister Jane died in 1999, Myrtle was always there for me. Aunt Myrtle loved to travel but never really wandered too from home. Her house was one house away from the farmhouse she, my dad, my uncle Stan, uncle Don and aunt Mary were raised as children. It was my grandpa Sam McGaw's house in Fitchburg at the entrance to McGaw Park. Yep, that's where the park got its name. It was the family farm until Fitchburg purchased it in 1975.

She was a great mom, great neighbor, great friend and the best aunt ever! I loved her and will miss her forever. She died on Feb 15th at home (just a few hours after my late sister Jane's birthday) way too soon at age 72.

In September, at my cousin Steve's wedding reception, she told me she was very proud of me. What a rush that was. I was very proud that she was my aunt.

I'll catch you later Aunt Myrtle!

Monday, 2/12/07

I have to say the Grammy Awards last night were excellent! I hope to recover soon from the whiplash I received while watching Shakira shake! That woman has more wiggles than my mom's Thanksgiving jello. The tribute to the Eagles by Carrie Underwood and Rascal Flatts was very impressive. It would be hard to find somebody that can play guitar like Joe Walsh but I thought they did a good job. The Dixie Chicks ran away with the show racking up five awards. I haven't heard their new CD but it's received many good reviews.

The next electronic toy I'll have to buy will be an HD radio receiver. I haven't heard High Definition radio but I've been told it's pretty amazing. The receivers are a little pricey but not too out of line. I've learned that even AM stations will even be able to broadcast a digital quality signal. Many of my younger friends have a hard time believing me that AM used to actually play music. I'm like, "oh yeah, there was WISM, WOKY and WLS pumping out the hits."

I'm off to see the taxman this week. I just hire the nice people at a tax preparation service so I can avoid the frustration. If I disappear from the radio, you'll know I fled the country before April 15th!

Friday, 2/9/07

I just finished up another morning show with Bob Bonner. Working with Bob is always a complete blast. I'm not crazy about getting up at 3:30am. The one advantage is that traffic is really light at that hour and the donuts are really fresh at Speedway.

There's some Hollywood gossip going around saying that Paula Abdul is going to get fired from "American Idol". I hope such rumors are false. I think she makes the show. I swear everybody watches "American Idol". I just talked to a guy about 60 who never misses an episode! I get the feeling many people watch "Idol" and don't admit it.

The Grammy Awards are going to be great this Sunday. I hope Gnarles Barkley, K.T. Tunstall & James Blunt can all win.

It's offical from General Motors. They will bring back the Chevy Camaro in early 2009. Just in time for my midlife crisis! The new Camaro started out as a concept car in 2006. The prototype ws so well received at the Auto Show General Motors decided to bring it back.

Tuesday, 2/6/07

It looks like the Sun Prairie groundhog is right so far. While Jimmy was hogging or "groundhogging" the limelight, I overlooked Hamlet The Potbellied Pig from Cottage Grove. Hamlet didn't see his shadow so spring will arrive early, at least in Cottage Grove! I dated a girl briefly in the early 90's who had a potbellied pig for a pet. His name was Humphrey and he was mean as heck! He used to snort at visitors and especially me! Maybe it was the nickname I called him: "Baconbits." As for forecasting the weather, I would think a potbellied pig would cast quite a shadow. I know Bob Bonner and I do when getting out of the shower.

I hope to see many Magic listeners on Valentine's Day while the "Love Squad" is spreading the love. If we visit you and your real Valentine get jealous, remember...my name is Pat O'Neill.

Wednesday, 1/31/07

I'm feeling like a new man after a trip to MCV Salon in Sun Prarie. They managed to get rid of some the gray hair that keeps showing up before its time! Now that the gray is gone I guess I won't be taking over Bob Barker's job when he retires in June. I wonder if "The Price Is Right" will last without him. I bet he plans on doing some golfing with Happy Gilmore in his spare time.

Just when I get used to getting up at 3:30am, it's time to go back to my own shift. I filled in for Pat this week with Bob Bonner. I really like the way our live traffic reports sound. I remember a time when some radio "suits" thought Madison was too small for traffic reports on local radio. It seems now like the only place without traffic congestion is probably Amish country.

The 2007 Grammy Awards are going to be awesome! The Police will reunite for the first time in several years. Many of your Magic 98 regulars are nominated. I wish James Blunt, Corinne Bailey Rae and K.T. Tunstall good luck. I really love the new K.T. Tunstall song "Suddenly I See." I hope she wears her cowboy boots to the show!

Friday, 1/26/07

I've received many great ideas for "Superbowl Sunday" viewing. Thank you! I may have to visit several during the course of the game. Twist my arm into doing that.

I find a good way to escape the stress of a day is by going to the toy store on lunch break. Toys R Us not only has really cool radio controlled airplanes but now a radio controlled Superman! He really flies just like the "Man of Steel". It would be sad, though, if a large hawk or eagle plucked him out of the sky and took him back to the nest. I bet you wouldn't get a refund either. I did not spot a Wonder Woman with a radio controlled transparent plane.

My heart goes out to longtime friend Alan Carlson and his wife Karen. They lost their entire home to fire this week in the town of Dunn. I wish them both brighter days. I'm happy to hear the Red Cross is helping them out since they lost everything.

Monday, 1/22/07

Excellent football over the weekend. The Colt's finish was one of the most amazing I've seen in years. I was watching that game at a local "watering hole" with a Chicago Bears fan. He actually thinks Brett Farve is one of the greatest players of all time so we got along just fine! I'm looking forward to Superbowl Sunday. I'm now in search of the best place in southern Wisconsin to watch it. Your suggestions are welcome.

As Valentine's Day approaches, once again I'll be Mr. D.J. at Olbrich Gardens "Valentines In Paradise". I've been doing this for so long, I forget when I actually started doing this venue. If you have a Valentine you might want to see again, I recommend this for your romantic night on the town. Proceeds benefit Olbrich and I won't be wearing a Cupid outfit. Bonus! The date is Feb. 10th. There will be several desserts just in case you accidentally eat the box of candy for your Valentine.

Thursday, 1/18/07

I finally had the chance to see all of "American Idol" on Tuesday. I had no idea Denise Jackson from Madison was going to be on there. I've never had the pleasure of meeting her but was very impressed with her perfomance. It's very cool that Madison has a hometown representive on America's hottest show. Good luck to Denise! I hope she makes it all the way. When Denise mentioned to the judges that she was from Madison, I was hoping Paula would remember our intimate phone conversation last March on Magic 98. No such luck. The girl that sang like the lion from "The Wizard Of Oz" freaked me out a little bit. The judges sent her back home or back to Oz with her tail between her legs. Some say Simon is cruel but I admire his honesty. Jewel struck me as sort of unfriendly on that episode.

Since I never wake up for the "Magic Birthday Line" at 6:30 - there's a shock! - I wanted to send out birthday wishes to my brother Dennis, my brother Pat, my friend Craig, my friend Stephanie, my cousin Rusty and my friend and co-worker Liz Terry. I think that should cover everybody! It's so much cheaper than sending cards with money!

Monday, 1/15/07

Looks like winter has finally made it here. We kind of knew it would one of these days. My new truck is awesome on the snow. I've been looking forward to using my four wheel drive. It works even better than I thought it would. I'm not sure I'll be needing any plowed roads this winter. In fact, I may not need roads at all. My friend good friend Chris who sold me my truck was in to visit me this Saturday at Pearl's where I D.J. part-time. Chris works at Capitol Ford and is a super cool guy. Last winter we did a promotion together on Magic for the new Ford Fusion. Chris and I have been good friends ever since. I think he comes into to Pearl's to meet women, so if you're single woman looking for a guy and a vehicle "built Ford Tough," stop into Pearl's and meet Chris!

I lived like a "slug" all weekend long. I just kind of hung out at home and watched DVD movies and infomercials. I know it's hard to believe for a swinging D.J. type like myself! It's a good thing I can't find my credit card when those infomercials are on T.V. or I'd be the proud owner of a Design Home, a Dual Drill, Wonder Broom and a Juicer.

Friday, 1/12/07

I just saw the new Apple Phone/I-Pod. I'm not sure but I think I might be able to shave with it, too. The price seemed low for the technology involved. Isn't technology amazing? We've made major advances since I was kid in the 70's. A few weeks ago I found my C.B. walkie-talkie I had many years ago. It still works but there isn't much happening on the C.B. band anymore. I guess maybe truckers have switched to cell phones. When we were about 16, a buddy of mine used to meet girls on the C.B. radio. He said they usually looked much different in person than they sounded on the radio. I hear that alot about myself!

As Magic 98 continues to broadcast to the world through streaming, e-mail arrives from far and wide. We haven't made alien contact yet like Jodi Foster but it could happen. E-mail has arrived from England and France. I would love to get one from Australia. If you're listening in the "The Land Down Under," drop us a line and good day mate.

Tuesday, 1/9/07

My good friend Gerry and I will be heading for Quaker Steak & Lube in Middleton. While there, Gerry's very cool daughter Kayla and I will watch in amazement while Gerry tries to break his old record of eating 52 chicken wings! At least he'll have a diet soda.

I see the nominees for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame have been announced. I was glad to hear Van Halen & R.E.M. were both selected. I've never been there but it sounds like fun.

Friday, 1/5/07

I hope all of the New Year's resolutions have worn off by now and things have returned to normal for you! I was surprised that James Blunt was the number one song on Casey's Countdown. A great song, but I thought Natasha Bedingfield had the number one spot nailed down for the year. Good thing I didn't bet my salary on that outcome.

The warm weather has me thinking spring way too early. I've been shopping for a new motorcycle already. I'm thinking the gas I'll save with the bike will pay for itself over time. My old Yamaha XT blew up back in 2002. They'll do that when you run them low on oil! I think once you've owned a motorcycle you kind of always want one. Saving gas money would be a good thing. It will either be a new cycle or a donkey. As nice as this warm weather is, it is a little strange. I've never seen our lakes unfrozen this late in the game. Whatever
your political allegiance, try and check out Al Gore's movie on global warming. It's very interesting and a bit alarming.

I'm having a hard time unplugging my Christmas tree. I bought a fiber optic one at the very last minute this year. It's very "70's Spencer Gifts Backroom Retro." I'll keep it plugged in to celebrate Elvis' birthday.

Tuesday, 1/2/07

A very Happy New Year to you! I heard of a great survey that indicated 25% of those asked did not expect to receive a kiss at midnight on New Year's Eve. I hope you were one of the 75% that did get a kiss at midnight. I rang in the new year at The Fifth Quarter in Verona where I spun the tunes for a high spirited crowd. We had a very good time bringing in 2007. Since the
resoultions never stick, I've resolved to start smoking, eat lard from the can and never exercise. See what I mean? I'll be just fine.

Once again I've had the pleasure of playing the role of Pat on "The Pat & Bob Show". We've added an exciting new feature to the morning show...traffic updates with Shawn Prebil. Shawn has been doing traffic for another one of our stations for years so he really knows his way around town. I wanted to fly a Magic traffic helicopter around during rush hour but the idea was vetoed by those in charge.

The new truck is working out well. I keep washing it all the time at Octopus. It's probably going to rust out before its time if I keep washing it so much. It's hard to believe for a D.J. guy like me, but this is the first vehicle I've owned with a CD player. I've been putting it to very good use!

Tuesday, 12/26/06

I hope you had an amazing Christmas! Mine truly was a blast. It always is, now that I think about it. I spent Christmas Eve at my sister Jean's house near Brooklyn. My niece and Godchild Amber was in from Boston. She was telling me about a guy that wanted to date her. He sent her 60 text messages in one day! I don't call my friends 60 times in a year. We enjoyed a lovely family sing-a-along of "Tainted Love" after that story. Yikes!

My good friend Michelle is trying to get me to write a book about some of the interesting characters I've met with this fun radio gig. I'm thinking about it. When I was the overnight D.J., a woman once showed up at the studio in a car with cardboard doors. She brought me chocolate milk and donuts so I cut her some slack.

I'm not a gambling man but I would bet all money on Natasha Beddingfield having the #1 song of the year when Casey Kasem counts
down the top hits of 2006. Then again, maybe it will be Michael Buble. I tend not to get up very early on Saturday morning so let me know how it goes.

Wednesday, 12/20/06

Wow! I have a major Christmas shopping list this year! Maybe I should learn to start earlier than Decemer 23rd. I've learned over the years to hit the discount stores at 3am on December 23rd if you want to beat the crowds and ride the mountain bikes around the store. Hey, I'm off the week of Christmas so enjoy the Mark Van Allen show and tons of great holiday music. In fact, Mark Van Allen will be my tour guide of the lakes when summer rolls around!

Wednesday, 12/13/06

I should probably start my Christmas shopping anyday now. Hey, that's what December 23rd is for! I'll probably start and finish it all in one swipe. I usually do most of it late at night at an all-night department store. It's not that I mind crowds but late at night I can ride the mountain bikes around the store and try on clothes without a changing room. I kind of dig this whole Christmas thing
This will be the first year in several we're having the big family bash at my sister's place. We thought we'd give "Ma McGaw" the year off this year.

Holiday music is sounding great on Magic 98. I think my favorites are "The Man With The Bag" by Diana Krall, "I Saw Three Ships" by Sting and "God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen" by Barenaked Ladies and Sarah McLachlan.

I wanted to send out some special messages to some very close friends of mine. First, to my good friend Amy Abbott, my condolences
on the loss of her mom. That is never easy at any age. I've lost my dad, two sisters and all my grandparents. You never get over it you just get used to it.

On a happier note...Happy Birthday to Jonathan W. Little on December 16! Legendary radio guys are ageless.

Monday, 12/4/06

As the year starts to wind down, I'm thinking how cool it will be if the Magic staff puts their New Year's resolutions in their blogs! I'm not sure if there is enough space in our computer to hold all of mine. I was thinking about 2006 while I was on the air today. It was really a good year for music. Natasha Beddingfield, Rob Thomas and Tim McGraw all making Magic 98 sound great. By the way, our station celebrated its 23rd birthday on the December 1st. I wasn't here in the beginning but started on Magic part-time in October of 1985. I took over the overnight shift full time on December 7th, 1987, and then moved to afternoons in March of 2002. Wow! I've been at this awhile. I wonder if I would have lasted this long as a brain surgeon.

If you've grown tired of the mall holiday "muzak", I recommend the Mulberry Lane concert next Sunday at the Barrymore. It's their "all Christmas" show. They're the sisters from Nebraska that played our "Taste of Madison" stage this past September. Amy Abbott and I got to introduce them on stage which was awesome. I got to hang out with them backstage for a little while. It was a brief encounter before my knees buckled and I drooled on myself since they are quite beautiful. Speaking of interesting holiday events...I was having a cold brew over the weekend when I noticed Santa at the bar also having a cold one! The bartender said he was a mall Santa relaxing after a long day. I should have waited around until he was half-in-the-bag and hit him up for a Playstation III or a new motorcycle! Don't worry kids. The elves will drive the sleigh.

Wednesday, 11/29/06

Since we're all about the free admission events around town, I highly recommend "The Holiday Fantasy In Lights" at Olin-Turville Park. I usually drive through it several times each holiday season. They suggest you turn your lights off when you drive through for the full effect. Of course, I usually forget to turn them back on when I drive away from the park. Feel free to make a donation as you leave. Maybe that helps pay the electric bill. I'd like to see it from the air sometime. I'm thinking about spending a couple of days in Orlando
in December to visit my friend Angela. Maybe I can spot it from the plane.

I'm totally digging the new truck! I can't wait to try out the four wheel drive. I've owned three four wheel drive trucks before and really loved them on our wicked winter roads. I've washed and waxed it a couple of times already. Maybe the novelty will wear off once I make the first payment! It's nice to have a truck with a driver's side rear view mirror. I tore my last one off when I pulled up to my credit union's ATM machine.

Have you ever known of a movie that can make you laugh out loud just thinking about it when you're not even watching it? Mine is "Christmas Vacation" with Chevy Chase. I now have it on DVD so it will be one jolly season for Jim. Hopefully for you, too!

Wednesday, 11/22/06

There is nothing like the excitement of a new car - or truck, in my case. I just drove it off the lot at Capitol Ford on Monday. It's shiny, red Ford Ranger pickup. My legendary Chevy S-10 met its untimely death over the past weekend. I'm all set for winter with four-wheel drive. Now we probably won't have a flake of snow! I think I'm going to love this truck even when the new truck smell wears off in a few months.

I'll be doing the lonely Thanksgiving morning shift this week. Last year the building was very quiet and lonely when my big boss Tom Walker (he president) showed up to say hi. Last person I expected to see on a holiday. It was a good thing I didn't wear my pajamas to work.

I hope you have a great Thanksgiving. Eat hearty and have fun. It only comes once a year. I keep saying I'll do my Christmas shopping early but I know I'll be the dork at the all night Shopko on December 23rd.

Monday, 11/13/06

Just over a week until Thanksgiving. Probably should start fasting in advance. I hope you can win a dinner from Magic 98. That sure would save you some work. Thanksgiving preparation can be dangerous. I had a frozen turkey fall out of a freezer and on my head one time! Maybe that explains the way I am.

I enjoyed watching the Packers beat the Vikings yesterday. I was in the company of a highly spirited bunch of Packer fans at The Bourbon Steet Grill in Monona. It seems everybody is in a better mood at work on Monday when "The Pack" wins on Sunday. Have you noticed it, too? Hopefully that goes for your boss.

Monday, 11/6/06

I'm back! All rested up and ready to broadcast. I hope you had a fun Halloween. My brother John & I were hanging out at the McGaw family homestead passing out the treats Halloween night. Ok, we ate a few but also met a little girl who just moved to America. At age 11, this was her first ever time out trick-or-treating! Wow! By 11, I was a veteran trick-or-treater. Right up until I stopped at age 27.

I'm back today (Monday) then gone again tomorrow for the big Chicago show. I couldn't hang out at the station until 7pm, shower, shave, apply expensive cologne and make the show on time so I'm burning up one more vacation day. I can't wait. Chicago does many love songs so it's the ideal date concert. I know what I'm doing. Same reason I take notes when I listen to Barry White.

My once "trusty" truck has devolped a strange problem. The gas tank seems to have a slight leak. I never noticed how many drivers toss red hot cigarettes out the car window on the Beltline until my tank started leaking. I need to get this fixed right away. I also need to wear a firesuit like the NASCAR drivers wear.

Monday, 10/23/06

I was hoping for a warm fall but it's not happening. I left my friend Kurt's reception on Saturday night...ok Sunday morning...and there is like two inches of snow outside. I got my expensive rental dress shoes all dirty! It was another great time at a staff wedding reception. Kurt is a really nice guy from our rock station down the hall. One of the many cool things about this radio job is there are so many awesome people in our building. Very different formats including rock, classic rock, country and talk but many nice people.

Speaking of cool people...it's good to have Bob back on the air. Losing a parent is never easy at any age. I went to Bob's mother's funeral. I think it was the first time I've seen Bob sad. I've lost my Dad and two sisters so I know what a surreal experience it is.

Now I'm counting the days to the Chicago concert. The most excellent Michelle I'm taking has an amazing resemblance to a celebrity and I figured out which one. Elisabeth from "The View" on ABC. Hey, better her than Barbara Walters! Enjoy the view, Jimmy. Oh, I will! I hope you can win Chicago tickets starting on Thursday. I'd love to see you there.

Vacation time next week. Pat, Bob and I have been here so long we get like a month off per year! Kind of like the great Johhny Carson in his later years.

Wednesday, 10/11/06

Whew! I think I'm finally beating this rotten cold. I'm not quite back to my "Superman" self but I'd say about 70 percent there.

So when I check out a great new restaurant I like to tell you all about it. I had lunch the other day at the new Byrd's Pub and Grill in Fitchburg. Great burgers, cheese curds, awesome/fast service. Fitchburg is my hometown. It sure has changed alot in the last ten years. When I was growing up there it was several acres of cornfields. Not so much anymore. I guess they're getting a Target store soon. We just had mud and sticks to play with. Big thrill was when Marjorie Podgorski & Kara Oakey moved into the neighborhood...before that we didn't have any girls!

Our little Liz Terry is getting hitched this weekend. Seems just like yesterday I was training her here at the station. Liz has an awesome man named Steve. He's actually eight feet tall. Steve is a really nice guy. The whole Magic staff will be there on Saturday for the big reception.

All the best to Liz and Steve, two of the finest people I know. I really like her parents (Jim...good name...& Karen), too. Can't wait to see them along with the Magic Crew. My second family!

Tuesday, 10/10/06

I hope you are dodging the cold that's going around these days. Do not attempt to adjust your radio. It's me sounding bad. This bug is really hanging in there. I think I'm going to live. Seems to help to sleep a little extra. I've become a big fan of herbal tea. Who knew?

Since I rarely am conscious for "The Birthday Line", I wanted to wish a bunch of my mighty fine friends a Happy Birthday. I have many friends with birthdays in October. So....Happy Birthday to Tammy Taylor, my longtime buddy Brian (30-something) and my friend Denise on October 18th. I could say her age but she'd have to kill me! Also, can't forget Rachel on 10/16 (age unknown) but a cool Libra chick! Last but not least Kris Lee in Edgerton.

Let me know if you know of any really good haunted houses around here. The very cool Michelle (my Chicago concert date) wants to go through a really scary haunted house. I figure she'll cling to me in fear so I think this might be a great plan. Of course my plan might backfire if I faint or wet my pants in fear. Nice going Mr. Smooth.

Thursday, 10/5/06

You might want to keep a safe distance from your radio. I'm catching one mean cold. It has giving me kind of a "Barry White" voice - I could use this to my advantage!

I'm starting to get the new vehicle fever. I'm kind of holding off until another brutal Wisconsin winter passes. There is word that Chevy might bring back the Camaro. When I was roughly 16 every guy my age wanted 3 things from life: a Camaro, Bose speakers and to marry one of Charlie's Angels. The first two on that list seem possible but I'm thinking number 3 may not happen.

I've been having a total blast at Dairy Expo at the Sheraton. Time flies when everybody is having fun. There was a woman from the Netherlands dancing there the other night that sort of distracted me. Her moves were barely legal. One day I fear I will wake up and have to get a real job! Hopefully not anytime soon.

Tuesday, 10/3/06

Wow! What a lightning show last night. Nice effect for Halloween season. I was driving back late from Sun Prairie checking it out in the eastern sky. Lightning like that makes me glad I'm not tall.

I'll be doing some moonlighting this week. My good buddy Randy and I are spinning the tunes at "World Dairy Expo". I've been handling this event since 1998 at the Sheraton. Sheraton staff is super nice. If you're getting hitched or having a party it's a good place to be. "Dairy Expo" visitors get a little wild & crazy. I think they they get off the farm and don't have to get up early so they cut loose.

Now I'm really looking forward to this Chicago concert. Taking this awesome woman I met this summer named Michelle. I guess Peter Cetera won't be there but it should still be good. Michelle is excellent so I'll probably take her somewhere nice for dinner before the show. Somewhere without a drive-up window and an outdoor playground. Go Jimmy go!

Thursday, 9/28/06

I hope you can come out and visit the hospice care addition this weekend. A big celebration this Saturday and Sunday with food and fun for the whole family. I hope you never, ever require hospice care for yourself or a loved one but we're lucky to have such a facility. My late and awesome sister Jane spent her last days on this earth in hospice care in Marshfield so I know what great support they provide. I'll be out there on Sunday from 1p-2:30p. It's located in Fitchburg on East Cheryl Parkway near Promega.

I'm happy to say my other awesome sister Jean is still very much alive and kickin'! It's her birthday on Friday. Happy Birthday!

This streaming online is a rush. We're not heard in space yet but just give us time! I love checking my e-mail each day. The e-mail continues to arrive from places near and far. Like that line from Paul McCartney's "Take It Away" song, "You never know who may be listening to you." I feel bad we can't go to some of the places I hear from with our Prize Machine.

Tuesday, 9/26/06

I'm thinking it's way too nice to be inside today. I'll have to see what I can to get kicked out of the building to enjoy the weather.

The station is having a little contest so some of the Magic staff can win Chicago tickets. There's this super cool woman I'm trying to impress by taking her to Chicago so wish me luck. I guess Peter Cetera won't be there but should still be a good show. Chicago has so many hits I'm surprised they're not here for a few days.

I had a great weekend. Badgers lost but put up a great fight. I don't think anybody thought they would do even that well against Michigan. Packers looked good, too.

This radio job never stops being a total blast. Sunday afternoon I moved downstairs to our little sister station "The Tux"(WTUX) to run the controls for Ben Benedetti on his Sunday show that runs from 11a-3p. Ben is one of the nicest and funniest people I know. It was totally retro, too. From time to time he will play some music from vinyl records! I haven't spun vinyl on the radio in a long time so it was great fun. He's passionate about the music and his work. I love that in a person. I had a million laughs working with him. Thank you, Ben. He's been in radio for over fifty years! Even longer than me, Pat & Bob!!

Thursday, 9/21/06

Now it's really feeling like fall. I'm done wearing shorts & sandals for the season. The Magic staff is glad! With Halloween approaching, you should check out Schuster's Farm in Deerfield. Keep an eye on the scarecrow because I think he's watching you. There's a Magic Card Special there this week so it's a great time to go. I'd get lost in the corn maze unless they put a slice of pizza and a beer near the entrance, then I could sniff my way out of there.

K.T. Tunstall in town on Monday. If she sounds as great as she did on Jay Leno's Tonight Show, you'll get your money's worth. There is a great story about her in the current Rhythm section.

Happy Birthday on Monday 9-25 to my friend Michelle. She claims that Delilah & some dude named John Tesh used to be her favorites to listen to but now I come in first! I should bake her a cake or something. If you want to dedicate a song to her tonight after 7p, she likes James Blunt.

Funny how DJ's always know where the new restaurants are being built. Usually it's doughnut shops. Madison is getting its own Texas Roadhouse. I've been to the one in Janesville (many times) and it's great! Great steaks and alot of fun. It's out on the far east side near East Washington Ave. & I-90.

Monday 9/18/06

How 'bought those Packers? The season is young, though. Us loyal "Cheeseheads" hang in there until the bitter end.

I hope you get a chance to see Gordon Lightfoot this week at the Overture Center. I also hope your seat will act as a flotation device when he sings "The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald". A good radio friend of mine claims Gordon wrote that song while staying at the Sheraton Hotel in Madison in 1975 when that big boat went down. He read about it in the newspaper and the rest is history.

I'm going to be spinning the tunes for two fun Halloween parties next month...one at Hack's Sports Page in Oregon and one at The Fifth Quarter in Verona. I went shopping around this weekend for some cool Halloween party props. The selection at Walgreen's is excellent as is the selection at Kmart in Portage. They still have a Kmart. Great Halloween motion props. Things you can hang in your yard to scare all the kids away for the night. Then you can eat all the mini Snickers bars by yourself! They have a motion activated skeleton that says "bring me a glass of water and a mop." I get it. Good line. I promise not to use it on my show, though.
Tuesday, 9/12/06

Nice weather we're having, if you're a "Chia" pet. I seek out really bright places like department stores or grocery stores for the bright lighting on days like this. It seems to help my mood. My good friend Sue Peterson is super excited about the Tom Petty show tonight. I don't blame her. He still rocks in concert. The new Petty CD is really good...even the critics like it.

I'm trying to plan ahead on my Halloween costume for Magic 98 Halloween visits. I was thinking one of those guys from the Blue Man
Group might be kind of cool. That or a mummy but it might be hard to drive as a mummy. I'll keep you posted. One year I was the Tin Man. Not such a great costume considering all the rain we've been having this year. They might find me rusted to a pole somewhere.

You probably hear me talking about a fun store called "Simply Irresistible" on my show. I bought a book there called Worst Case Survival Handbook. It covers everything from being attacked by a bull to sinking in quicksand. I'm thinking it would be hard to read it while you're being attacked by a bull or sinking in quicksand so you read it ahead of time in your spare time.
Thursday, 9/7/06

Madison has made Pluto its official 9th planet. I think the City Council likes Pluto since it's the only place colder than Madison in January. You can't hear Magic 98 on Pluto (yet) but this streaming thing rocks! I'm getting e-mail from all over the place. I'm still waiting for that offer from Hollywood. Also, a vacation offer from someone with a spare room in a tropical paradise would be nice. Wednesday morning after I did the morning show with Bob, I listened to a bunch of stations from all over the country that stream. There's a station in Los Angeles that does all disco. That was kind of cool. It's hard to beat our Saturday at the 70s, though. Perhaps I'm a little biased .

Our staff has been here so long we get so much vacation time. Amy is gone this week. It's nice to have Mark Van Allen hanging around this week. He's one cool guy. We had a chance to hang out Labor Day after our day at Schoepp Motors. A million laughs when you're hanging out with Mark.

Badger home opener this weekend. Camp Randall is really cool with all the renovations. More room to "Jump Around" or do "The Wave". Watch out for those little bees. They like to drink more beer than me. That's hard to believe.
Tuesday, 9/5/06

I get to be morning man with Bob for a couple of days this week. It's always a great time working with Bob and Charlie. I actually went to bed last night at 8pm! I think the last time I went to sleep at 8pm I was deathly ill or in trouble with my parents at about the age of six. If I go to sleep at 8pm I can get up around 3am and not have to hurry. That way I don't cut myself shaving and I get the freshest donuts.

That is really sad news about "The Crocodile Hunter." I loved that show and thought he would never die. I guess you never know. I knew a girl who stepped on on a stingray once while on vacation. They usually aren't fatal - she just said it hurt like crazy. I've never stepped on a stingray but was stung by a bullhead once. We used to play in Nine Springs Creek when we were kids and it was full of bullheads. My brother put some in our aquarium once and they ate the eyeballs out of our goldfish. Freaky!

The Taste Of Madison was a blast! I thought the bands were outstanding. The lead singer for Hot Sauce has the perfect voice for those classic R&B tunes they do so well. Mulberry Lane sounded amazing too. Super sweet women. They'll be back for a holiday show. Link up to their website through ours.

Hats off to Bret, the new coach! A very impressive coaching debut. I had a few brews with him once at Cheeseburger In Paradise. I should buy him a few more after that game. I wanted to let you know a couple of great places to watch Badger games on Saturdays...the new Byrd's Pub in Fitchburg with big burgers and wings. Also, the Fifth Quarter in Verona. Many Bucky backers hanging out there. They also have really good pizza (homemade) and chicken drummies. Yum! I've been known to spin the tunes there from time to time as well.
Monday, 8/28/06

I can't wait to see you at the Taste of Madison this Sunday. I promise to save you some food and beer! It sounds like most of the Magic staff will be there at some point so please stop by and say yo!

I have to tell you how wild this "Snakes on a Plane" movie is right now! Don't go to it by yourself! What a scary concept for a flick. A snake crawls into your house, you just call the Orkin man. A snake crawls out from under the seat of your car, you just scream and pull over and run! What do you do on a plane when a nasty snake appears? You can't hide in the restroom because everyone else is hiding in there already!

If you're looking for a quick weekend getaway, I have to tell you about the Deer Valley Lodge in Barneveld. I spun the tunes this past weekend there for longtime Magic 98 listener Desiree. She married a cool guy named Jared, much cooler than "Jared the Subway guy" named Jared. Deer Valley has a golf course and a waterpark. Desiree and Jared put me up in my own VIP room! Yes. Rock star treatment. I didn't trash the place, though, like Van Halen did to the Sheraton back in '79. I had some wine, took a nice hot bath and drank more wine. It's not all glamour.

Monday, 8/21/06

The Taste Of Madison is less than two weeks from today! I haven’t started fasting quite yet. I’ll know I ate too much if someone yells, “Get out of the way, Jim, you’re blocking the stage!"

 

It’s hard to believe summer is almost over already. Oh yeah. It’s winter that goes slowly here. David George and I noticed how many bees have begun to attack outside this time of year. David says they like sweet things like soda. I give them beer so they get dizzy and crash into the ground!

 

I had the chance to tour Camp Randall Stadium recently. Our group actually saw the café where the Badgers eat. I think the coach feeds them raw meat to make them mean. I don’t get to see many home games since I’m usually working on Saturday but I hope you do. Thanks to John for the great tour.

Friday, 8/11/06

I've been doing the "Pat & Bob Show" the last few days. I played the role of Pat. Thursday afternoon I took a nice nap. At 6:07pm I woke up thinking I had overslept for Friday's morning show! It took me a couple of seconds to get my bearings straight.

I can't believe it's Packer pre-game season already. I'm excited though. I have a good friend who is a Bears fan! I'm always afraid he will get us killed at a local pub. I'm trying to convert him but not having much luck. I think maybe a trip to Lambeau might help him see the light.

Since I use my real name on Magic 98 (none of that phony radio stuff!), someone will recognize me from my past. Hello to my old high school friend Justin Dheal living in Baraboo. He called me one day out of the blue. Good to know I don't owe him any money from 10th grade.
Tuesday, 8/8/06

Now that the weather has cooled off a bit, I've been doing some serious mountain biking. I won't be ready for the next Tour de France or anything but I'm adding a few more miles each day. Also, the training wheels have come off and I'm not walking my bike up hill anymore. These are good signs! My bike has an all aluminum frame so it's lightweight. I'm thinking it's probably made from all the recycled beer cans I've had over the years. Next vacation I'm going on a super long ride on one of those state groomed trails.Did you know our state snowmobile trails are so good you can ride all the way to Canada?

I always get excited when I find some totally forgotten movie on DVD. For example, "Dual" starring the late Dennis Weaver. Have you ever seen it? It was some of Spielberg's early work. Plot is simple but compelling. Dennis Weaver is driving on a trip alone in his red Dodge Dart and a crazy semi truck driver is trying to run him off the road. I used to fear this when I took long trips in my Chevy Vega. Good thing it never happened. Great flick. Rent it, buy it or just stay up late at night and you're likely to see it on cable.

I made it down to Barneveld a couple of nights ago to hang with my good friend Desiree. We had pizza at this little place called Lucky's. Great pizza! I give it four stars. Barneveld is really growing. I probably am, too, after all that pizza. Better go bike some more.
8/3/06

I can't belive it's the final "Concert On The Square" already! This means Taste of Madison is coming up soon. I'll start fasting now. I'm not sure who will be on our stage this year. In the past, we've had War, Tommy Tutone, Animotion and Tower Of Power. I think they were all accidentally eaten by hungry "Taste" visitors to the square. Stay tuned. As you've noticed, Magic doesn't do anything small. A big special thanks to our Magic engineers Trevor, Bob & John. Also, Lisa Bradley back at the studio for making me sound good at "Concerts" all summer long. I would like to thank Ovations as well for some of the best food ever. Next date I have I'm going there! Find out what our amazing Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra does the rest of the year at www.wcoconcerts.com.

Wow! This news story about the car in Lake Waubesa is amazing. CSI Waubesa. When I was little kid (roughly 100 years ago) my great Dad used to take me fishing on that very side of Lake Waubesa. Yikes! I'll be following this one for awhile.
7/31/06

I hope you're keeping cool! It's not easy these days. I'm usually a big fan of the hot & hazy days of summer except the AC in my truck has quit working. Great summer for that to happen. Jim does not need an expensive pool to stay cool. After a very fun picnic on Saturday for the DMV, hosted by longtime friend and Magic listener Julianne Hogan, I dove into the Wisconsin River. The strong under current didn't wash me or my shorts away so it was great time! I was in there for about two hours.

About eight years ago I had this awesome, smart & beautiful girlfriend who was really into astrology. She got me into the habit of checking my daily forecast in the paper. Today was supposed to be a 6 for me but it really felt like a 10! I started the day invited to a benefit luncheon at Cherokee County Club. Yes, they actually let me into to a country club! I got to meet golf pros Steve Stricker, Jerry Kelly and Mario Tizziani. Super cool guys and really funny. Also, I got to meet "The Dean of Madison Televison Sports", Jay Wilson. That guy rocks! Turns out he listens to Magic 98. Jay is my favorite TV sportscaster of all time and a truly great person.

I'm loving this new Tim McGraw song "When The Stars Go Blue." Pat, Amy and I remember the old version by The Corrs and Bono. Tim does a great job on it, too. I highly recommend his Greatest Hits Volume II CD, where you'll find it.
7/27/06

It's hard to believe but only one "Concert On The Square" remains! Bob Bonner was on his best behavior last night. No food fights, no eating with his hands! Summer will be over soon but not before another "Make A Splash" day next Sunday, August 6th. I promise not to show up there in a Speedo or thong so you're safe!

Since we're in a city surrounded by lakes, I'm thinking about buying some kind of personal watercraft. We gave away a Yamaha Waverunner a few years back and I thought that was pretty groovy. My understanding of them is the faster you go the easier they are to control. Cool!

I had a chance to eat at Benvenuto's recently. Ahh love those gift cards. If you go there make sure you're really hungry! Large size calzones. I hope I'll still fit on the radio after eating there. Excellent food and service. Suddenly I'm a dining critique. I give it four stars.

7/25/06

This summer has been too much fun! It didn't take my friends Mike, Jamie, Joe & Randy to talk me into joining them at the Mallard's game this past Sunday night. OK, I didn't get to throw the first pitch like I did in early June but what a blast! We hung out on the "Duck Blind" party deck. Such a deal! For just $27 you get all the beer & brats you can handle. A dream come true for a purebred Cheesehead like me! I think if you text message the Mallard's the night before you get that same deal for just $20. The Mallard's have a great website - it's www.mallardsbaseball.com. Ahhh, their season is going by quickly. I hope you can make it out there. I'll be back on the party deck the next two Tuesdays. I hope I see you there!

I'm sorry I missed it but I'm glad to hear this happened. Our longtime friend and Madison radio legend Jonathan W. Little was honored recently at a luncheon during the Conclave radio convention. I have to admit that one of my career highlights was not just getting to know him but actually getting to be friends with him. In fact, I'm honored and proud to say three of the radio greats many of us grew up listening to in Madison became my friends over the years. Jonathan, David Ross & the late Clyde Coffee...true pros and three of the finest people I've known. When my sister Jane passed away in 1999, Jonathan came to the funeral for moral support. That's the kind of class act he is.

7/17/06

I hope you are keeping cool! I'm a bit of freak who actually likes the hot, hazy weather. I managed to find many shady places over the weekend. Also, it's hard to beat a vanilla ice cream cone at McDonald's for just $1.09.
I'm really looking forward to the Dane County Fair this week. Tom Thumb donuts, funnel cakes...aaah, the health food exhibits. I'll probably spend the day over there on Sunday and maybe stop in Thursday on my lunch break.

I'm having a truly awesome summer. Hope you are, too. The Magic 98 schedule gods have given me many weekends off to play! I have been playing hard. Mark Van Allen joins me for Concerts on the Square # 4 this week. I hope you will soon!

7/14/06

I received a phone invite to "Cheese Days" in Monroe this year. I'm there! I dig that little town. I try to make it down there when I can. They have the coolest downtown. You can plug the meters with pennies! Downtown Monroe has a great little place called Baumgartners. John Kerry was there during the last election campaign. Cheese Days isn't 'til September but I'm gonna pencil it onto my social calendar. Hope you can, too!

7/12/06

So I'm watching just a few minutes of that show "The View" the other day as I'm getting ready for work. There was a guy on there that is a nutrition & health expert. He has devised a formula for calculating your "Real Age". His real age formula is based on how well we take care of ourselves. He uses a point scoring system based on diet, sleep, stress, etc. If you have lived a good, clean healthy life, your calendar age might be 45 but your real age more like 30! Using his point formula I have calculated my real age to be roughly 115. I appear to be living on borrowed time. Please enjoy today's show!

7/10/06

Wow...did I get caught in a major rain storm yesterday! It was sunny and about 86 when I left on my mountain bike. About 1 mile from home the monsoon rolled into town. Now that I think about it it felt pretty good. I spent some time over the weekend hooking my turntable back up to my home stereo system. Yes, I'm one of the retro guys that hung onto some vinyl. I'm lucky to have one of the really nice Techniques MkII 1200 like all the cool club DJ's and radio stations use. I love the new technology but still hang on to some of the old, too.

My condolences to friends, family, coworkers and many fans of Mike McKinney. That really caught me off guard since I thought he was
doing better. I worked with Mike a few times over the years at various events. Most recently, he was in our building for our historical Gilda's Club broadcast back in March. Just a super guy. He will be greatly missed.

Hey, when I'm not spinning the hits on Magic, I spin the hits at Pearl's on the east side. I've been doing that since 1999. Pearl's is in the Crowne Plaza across from East Towne. It's been great fun and a great job. I've made some great friends there like my co-workers Mike, Tammy, Phil, Lacy and Bob. We have some great regular customers, too, like Jerry, Ben, Jan, Syrus, Dan, Adam, Amber and the list goes on and on for miles. Music is a little bit of everything and starts at 9pm Wednesday through Saturday. I'm not there on Saturday when it's the very cool Greg! Pearl's is a really nice club with great food as well.

7/6/06

Have you been enjoying listening to our station as much as me lately? I love K.T. Tunstall, Five For Fighting and also Natasha Bedingfield.

I really need to break my motorcycle out of storage and do some major repairs. I'm sick of paying for gas! My "bike" will go about 75 miles per gallon. There was a guy next to me at the pump the other day filling up his huge Dodge Ram truck. Watching the numbers go up on his pump was like watching the toteboard at a telethon. I heard him cuss several times. I had to turn the other way so he couldn't hear me laughing. I bet he trades his truck in for a moped.

Here's a cool website to check out, speaking of gas...it's www.madisongasprices.com. You'll find the highest & lowest in town.

I've been the morning man all week. Sure isn't much traffic out there at 4:30 on the Beltline! I might be sleepwalking, though, so startle me! It's fun working with Bob Bonner.

Time to slip into a nearby phonebooth and turn into my alter ego "Muffin Man". Hope I see you soon.

7/3/06

Well, I've used up all my vacation time for awhile so it's time to get serious about work. Like this is really working! Speaking of not working hard...our "Concerts On The Square" broadcast # 1 was a blast! It looked like a rain-out but we managed to pull it off in a pinch. I hope to see you at Table 75 very soon. I think you'll like Ovations and the fact that I actually use silverware when out in public.

I had a chance to see "Superman Returns" while I was on vacation. Started out great but kind of lost its steam in the second half. I like "Batman Begins" & "Spiderman" & "Spiderman II" better. Not that I'm any kind of expert movie critique.

Summerfest in Milwaukee is off to a rockin' start! My good friend Phil gave the Tom Petty show a rave review. I hope you make it to some of the shows. A pretty amazing line-up this year as always.

I did manage to try and check out the fireworks at Warner Park on Saturday. You can really strike up some interesting conversations with total strangers while you wait in the long line at the porta-bathroom! Some of these people come from all over the Midwest. As you probably heard, it was stormed out on Saturday but weather turned out great for the "relaunch" on Sunday.

6/28/06

Concert on The Square number one is just hours away! I'm always a little nervous for the first one making sure all the technical "bugs" get worked out in time. Our Magic 98 engineers are really the best in the business. I hope to see you at Table 75.

Thanks for the birthday greetings I received today. It's really appreciated! I think I'm going to buy the Red Green series. I found it on DVD! Cool! He cracks me up everytime I watch him. I hope the storms stay away for tonight. The Capitol looks like a nice sturdy building if we have to run for our lives.
I'm taking some time off for birthday/summer fun. Take care. You're in good hands with mine and your good friend Mark Van Allen.

6/26/06

I hope you had an awesome weekend like I did. You deserve it! I had a great time with my old friend Rex at Castle Rock Lake. He's opened up a new restaurant & bar right on the lake. These guys made me feel right at home. It's right between a bunch of cool condos that look like log cabins. I love that look. The new place is called South Shore Lounge. Rex has been in the biz for
years. The food and atmoshpere are awesome! He's a great guy. Tell him Jimmy said yo!

I made it back to town in time to hit my old stompin' ground of Oregon. I went to school there, grades K-12. Oregon is finally changing. Pat O'Neill lived there as a kid. I think they have three stoplights now. They also have several Kwik Trips. When I went to school there they had one A & W. I hooked up with many old, long-lost friends like Jim Staley, Kara, Bill Markham and most of my cousins!
No offense to Brat Fest but Oregon Summerfest has some of the best brats around! I look forward to it every year .

6/21/06

I hope I'll fit on the radio after one huge, delicious dinner at Ovations last night.I had a hot dinner date with Lanette! It was fun. Too bad Lanette didn't have a cuter date! They really rolled out the red carpet treatment for us and we really appreciated it. We were taste testing it for our Concert On The Square guests. Out of 5 possible stars...we give Ovations a 10!

We sure are having a wicked stormy summer. This past Sunday I was enjoying a peaceful "Sunday At The 80's", chillin' to a little a little Christopher Cross, when the sirens started sounding. I wish the tornados would leave the Stoughton area alone. The latest one was a little ways out of town. I think the Magic staff might pitch in and buy Liz Terry and underground bunker since she lives in Stoughton.

I enjoyed the goofy "Nacho Libre" movie over the weekend. Yeah, I was the guy laughing the hardest in the front row. Nacho kind looks like a friend of mine so it made me laugh all the harder. If I get time this week I'd like to see "Cars" and "The Break-Up".

I'm way excited about the first "Concert On The Square" on Wednesday, 6/28. It's also my birthday. Yikes! More and more candles on the cake. If the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra plays Harry Chapin's W-O-L-D, I'm leaving!
6/20/06

I'm looking forward to a complete weekend off this week. I'll be spending Sat & Sun at Castle Rock Lake. I think it's the second biggest lake in Wisconsin. I wonder if there is a fish as big as "Jaws" living there! A longtime friend of mine is having me up for a visit. I hope I can be back in time to make it down to "That Other Summerfest" in Oregon. My old stomping ground! It's always cool
to run into friends and classmates from Oregon where I went to school roughly 100 years ago.

I attended a great wedding reception over the weekend for my friends Kurt & Emily. The reception was at The Nau-ti-gal. I spun the tunes for about four hours. Rob and the staff there are so cool; I would highly recommend it if you're having a party or taking the plunge!
6/15/06

I’m really looking forward to summer. I even like really hot & hazy days. Two places I like to hang out are the rooftop patio at Bourbon Street Grill in Monona and the patio at T.G.I. Friday’s on Madison’s east side. OK, it has a view of Best Buy but it’s really cool! Bob Bonner keeps talking about taking me out on his boat. Cool. I haven’t tried the new Goodman Bros. pool yet but I hear it’s impressive.

My very awesome niece Julie just turned 30. I remember the day she was born like it was yesterday. June 2nd, 1976. She was feeling weird about the big 3-0. I’m like, “I remember the 70’s songs when they were new so cry me a river!" Speaking of 70’s songs, Frampton is playing live around here soon. I might have to check out that show.

I had a blast tossing out the first pitch at the Mallard’s game recently. I used to be able to hit ‘em pretty well but never pitched much before. Someone said I “smoked” it across the plate. Too kind I believe but I made it! Mallard’s staff & team are the best. We are lucky to have them here.

Isn’t Magic sounding great! I love the new songs by Five For Fighting, Natasha Bedingfield and K.T. Tunstall. I saw her on Jay Leno and the crowd went wild!

 

 

 

I'm looking forward to our annual station holiday party this Saturday. I always like them more when they happen before Christmas. That way I actually have money left to tip with! Our company always throws a good one, too!

OK, these guys are really good.  The Zac Brown Band in concert this coming Sunday. As usual, I'm taking my concert date Lacie. It's for her birthday on December 4th. She's feeling bad about turning...get this...23! Wow. I have things in my refrigerator that old. Speaking of good music...I thought Magic 98 sounded especially good this past Friday with our "Sneak Preview To 98 Hours Of Christmas Magic."  I didn't mind working the day after Thanksgiving at all! It sure beats camping in front of Best Buy in sub-freezing weather.