Brian Hughes' Blog

What A Day

2009-06-26T04:16:00.000-07:00

Hollywood is mourning the passing of 2 icons within a few hours of one another...Early Thursday afternoon, we learned that Farrah Fawcett lost her long battle with cancer. The Charlies Angels star passed away with longtime love Ryan O'Neal by her side in a Santa Monica hospital at the age of 62. At least we were braced for her passing. Then later yesterday afternoon, we learned of Michael Jackson's cardiac arrest and his being rushed to the UCLA Medical Center. Then we learned of his passing. The King of Pop was only 50 years old.

No doubt June 25, 2009 will go down in music history, with the Day The Music died, when the Big Bopper, Richie Valens and Buddy Holly were killed in a plane crash, with August 16, 1977, when Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll passed away, and with December 8th 1980, when Beatle John lennon was gunned down outside his New York City apartment building.

Michael Jackson leaves behind a mixed legacy, an unquestioned brilliant entertainer, but also a troubled man known for bizarre antics and behavior, and of course, his infamous trial on child molestation charges. He grew up too quickly, not experiencing a real childhood because of his constant performing schedule with the Jackson 5, while at the same time, living a perpetual "Peter Pan" like existance, at his Neverland Ranch, trying to recapture a chldhood he was denied. A sad day indeed. R.I.P Farrah and Michael.

Chicago Woodstock and my new godchild

2009-06-19T05:54:00.000-07:00

Its been a while since my last post. A lot to catch up on.

I went to see Chicago and Earth Wind & Fire last Sunday at the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts. The center is built on the site of the historic Woodstock festival. Its a beautiful venue, and is only took me an hour and a half to get there from Scranton. I took Rt 6 through Honesdale, then Rt 652 to Narrowsburg New York, then a couple of state routes, and I was there. If you go there, be sure to have a full tank of gas, and bring along some food, because there really isn't much up there, when it comes to restaurants, or convenience stores. Just a whole lot of farmland. And be sure to check out the Woodstock Museum. Some great footage about how the famous concert came together, and a lot of background info on the artists that performed there. Had a great time at the show, we had a little rain, but it wasn't nearly as bad as the rain they had at Woodstock. Really great concert venue at Bethel Woods, with plenty of lawn room, and the people working there were very nice and welcoming.

The ride home was a little nerve racking, with miles and miles of dark 2 lane roads, with "Bambi and his extended family" potentially waiting on every curve of the roadway.

Last Friday, my niece Ashley gave birth to her second child, a boy named Sean, after his father.
I got to hold him when he was just 10 hours old. Quite an experience, and honor to be a second time godfather. Little Sean came into the world at 5:14am at Moses Taylor Hospital. Mom and baby are doing just fine.

Frankie "Avalon that is" at Mount Airy

2009-06-01T05:37:00.000-07:00

Went to see another Frankie on Saturday night. 50's and 60's teen idol Frankie Avalon appeared at Mount Airy Casino, and put on quite a show. He did all his favorites, "Venus" "Beach Blanket Bingo" and "Beatuy School Drop Out" from "Grease", as well as "Bandstand Boogie" and "California Sun" It was a family affair at Mount Airy, because Frankie's son, one of his 8 children, serves as his drummer, and Eton Everly, the son of Don Everly of the Everly Brothers is one of his guitarists. In fact, Frankie and Eton sung Everly Brothers favorites like "All I Have To Do Is Dream", Wake Up Little Suzie" and "Bye Bye Love". At the end of the show, Frankie offered a tribute to his late friends, Bobby Darin, Elvis Presley, Ricky Nelson and Bill Haley. It was a good time for all, and a very entertaining show Saturday night at Mount Airy. Frankie also hinted that more legendary acts may be playing Mount Airy soon, some names include Dion, James Darren and Neil Sedaka. Stay tuned.

Terminator and John and Kate

2009-05-26T08:50:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a great Memorial Day weekend. I saw the new Terminator flick, and its was pretty good. Christian Bale is the new John Connor, and even Arnold made an appearance, in a rather unique way I may add. After 25 years, we finally get a real view of the post apololyptic world of the Terminators, some even giant size. I give it 3 1/2 popcorns out of 4.

So John & Kate, (of John & Kate Plus 8 fame) are on the rocks, with rumors of both Jon & Kate Gossling engaging in extra marital affairs. What of their future and the future of their show on TLC? Well, Jon could always get together with Nadia Suleman, aka The Octomom. Oh the stories they could tell. And Kate could always get together in a new reality show with Muhammad Ali. "Kate & Ali" (lol).

Too Much Voting

2009-05-21T05:50:00.000-07:00

What a week for votes! Between Dancing With The Stars, Tuesday's primary election and American Idol, I'm worn out. I think I wrote in Adam Lambert for Mayor of Scranton and texted Chris Doherty for American Idol. Quite an Idol finale last night. I'm ashamed to say I mised the final hour. Hey, a guy needs to sleep sometime. Congrats to Kris Allen, but don't feel too badly for Adam Lambert. I'm sure he will find some work somewhere.

Big concert announcement from Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs! They announced their summer concert lineup yesterday, and its pretty impressive. LeeAnn Rimes on July 5th, Peter Frampton on July 19th, Hall & Oates July 30th, and for oldies fans, Bowzer (from Sha Na Na) and his Original Doo Wop Show on August 9th. Two more acts will be scheduled at a later date. Mohegan will have an outdoor venue for the concerts set up near the racetrack capable of seating 4600 people. Its the first concert at the Downs since Bon Jovi more than 20 years ago.

Why I love what I do

2009-05-14T03:43:00.000-07:00

Monday night was just another example of why I love my profession. On Monday, I met and spoke with former Washington Redskin Pro Bowl quarterback Joe Theismann, who was speaking at the Volunteers of America dinner at Genetti's in Wilkes Barre. As a lifelong Skins fan, it was a thrill to meet the quarterback who led my team to its first Super Bowl title. We talked about volunteerism, and football of course.

Since I've been at Magic, I have had the opportunity to meet some amazing people, including my favorite band, Chicago backstage at the Toyota Pavilion. Covering the prsidential election, I met former CBS anchorman Dan Rather, MSNBC's Chris Matthews, and shook hands with Bill & Hillary Clinton, as well as President Barack Obama. Last year at the Legends Game at PNC Field, I met and spoke with former Yankees Bucky Dent, new baseball Hall of Famer Goose Gossage, Roy White, Mickey Rivers, Chris Chambliss, and Red Sox greats Jim Rice, Fred Lynn and Bill Lee. Recently, I went backstage to meet Barry Manilow, after his show at the Wachovia Arena. Many famous guests have come to the radio station, including WWE wrestling champs Randy Orton & Sheldon Benjamin, and Jewel from Dancing With The Stars, and former American Idol contender Carmen Rasmussen. Thats why I love what I do.

Can't Wait for Star Trek

2009-05-08T08:01:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite times of the year, the summer movie blockbuster season. I saw Wolverine last week, and will be checking out the new Star Trek movie tomorrow. The reviews are excellent, and the special effects should be mindblowing. Kirk, Spock and company, the early years. And in 2 weeks, its Terminator Salvation.

This weekend on Sunday Magazine, I will be featuring a podcast from the Pennsylvania Medical Society about everything you need to know about the swine flu outbreak. Also, in honor of Mother's Day I'll be speaking with Stacy DeBroff of momcentral.com, who has plenty of tips for busy moms, and with Phyllis Brostoff from the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers on caring for older mothers. And I'll be speaking with representatives from the Wilkes Barre Family YMCA about their "Night At The Races" fundraiser coming up on May 14th at the Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs. Sunday Magazine, Sunday morning at 6:30am on Magic 93.

Happy Mother's Day to all the moms in Northeast Pa and everywhere else. Its a bittersweet time, as I lost my mom 16 years ago, but she's never far from my heart. Seeing the lilacs in bloom always reminds me of my mom, because I always picked them for her, because she loved the fragrance.

A pair of landmarks celebrated tonight

2009-04-29T05:56:00.000-07:00

Its an interesting coincidence that President Obama is marking his 100th day as president with a news conference tonight, while "Lost" is marking its 100th episode tonight on ABC. Both have had their ups and downs. Obama has had teleprompter issues, and losing track of presidential planes flying too low over New York City, while Lost has its smoke monsters, and islands disappearing through time.

On the upside, President Obama has been able to recapture international good will, while tackling America's economic difficulties, and of course, Lost still has Evangeline Lilly playing the role of Kate.

This week on Sunday Magazine, I will reair my interview with Doctor Monita Hara form the Scranton State School For The Deaf, as well as school boardmember Robert Boice. SSSD has been in the news again over the possibility the school could remain open as a day school under the management of the privately owned western Pennsylvania School For The Deaf. Catch Sunday Magazine, Sunday morning at 6:30am on Magic 93.

This weekend on Sunday Magazine

2009-04-24T08:38:00.000-07:00

This weekend on Sunday Magazine. you will hear my interview with Sergeant Mike Hutchinson from East Stroudsburg, currently stationed at Camp Bucca in Iraq. This Week in Harrisburg examines legislation designed to end pay for play politics in Pennsylvania, reforms to the state Gaming Control Board, a review of Earth Day festivities in Harrisburg, and highlights from a gun rally at the State Capitol, plus highlights from 97.9X's Jim Bone's interview with outspoken rocker Ted Nugent, who discusses topics ranging from assault weapons to dealing with Somali pirates to border security. Sunday magazine, Sunday morning at 6:30am on Magic 93.

Another part of my youth has gone

2009-04-14T06:55:00.000-07:00

Saddened to hear about the passing of legendary Phillie broadcaster Harry Kalas, who died while preparing for the Phillies game against the Washington Nationals yesterday. Kalas was 73, and has been one of the most recognized voices in our profession, not only serving as the radio & TV voice of the Phils since 1971, but on NFL Films highlights, and broadcasting NFL games on Westwood One radio.

I had the priviledge of meeting Harry at a Phillie Caravan stop at Genetti's in Wilkes Barre back in 1982. I covered the event for the University of Scranton radio station, WYRE. It was generous of him to take out a little time to talk to a "wet behind the ears" 20 year old college kid.

Harry was not only a great broadcaster, but a great gentleman as well, and as fine a representative of the Phillies and professional broadcasting as you could possibly find. I'm not a Phillie fan, but I enjoyed listening to Kalas and his trademark calls, "long drive, otta here", and of course "struck eeem out". I distinctly remember watching him with tears rolling down his cheeks the night the Phillies clinched their first National League East Division title back in 1976, at the old Jarry Park in Montreal. He was always a true pro, but you knew his allegiance was with the "Fightin Phils" Somewhere in that great broadcast booth in the sky, I can picture Harry and Richie Ashburn telling tales and calling balls and strikes. I feel a part of my youth has left with Harry. Godspeed.

Getting the jump on summer

2009-04-10T05:59:00.000-07:00

Since yesterday was such a nice day, I decided to get out the grill for the first time in 2009, and cook up some bratwurst. Oh, they were delicious! May as well take advantage of the one nice day of the week.

I also attended Holy Thursday mass last night at my church. Its one of my favorite masses of the year, with the washing of the feet, and the singing of "Pange Lingua Gloriosa", one of the few times Latin is used during the Catholic mass. Being a Vatican 2 baby, its nice to hear a little Latin every once in a while. I'm also scheduled to read the 3rd & 7th readings for our Easter Vigil mass Saturday night.

Just wanted to wish one and all a Happy & blessed Easter holiday, (likewise for those who observed Passover this week)

This week on Sunday Magazine, I'll be speaking with Richard Bitner from Visiting Angels, about getting area seniors up to speed on ICE phones. ICE stands for In Case of Emergency. I'll also be speaking with Charlotte Wright from the Red Cross about their upcoming auction, Samantha Coles, who has a fundraiser for Hazleton area soliders coming up next Saturday, April 18th. Frankie speaks with Dr Hazzouri about Junior League's Cinderella's Closet fundraiser coming up next week, A reminder about April as National Donate Life Month, and the need for organ donors in Pennsylvania. And I will have an encore of my interview with "The Jesus Guy" What's Your Name, who discusses faith during difficult times, appropriate for Easter Sunday.

Sunday magazine, Sunday morning at 6:30 on Magic 93.

Brian The Ubermodel

2009-04-06T05:46:00.000-07:00

For the third year in a row, I took part in the annual Helen Keller Day fashion show at St Mary's Center in Scranton. Yesterday's event was the 80th annual event to raise money for the Lackawanna Branch, Pennsylvania Association For The Blind, and was a record turnout. Tom and Noreen Clark from WNEP-TV emceed the event. Since it was so nice yesterday, I suggested we move the catwalk outside. I got to model a stylish black short sleeve shirt and tan slacks from Joseph A. Banks. No trips and no wardrope malfunctions. My thanks to my old buddy, Paul Trama and everyone associated with Helen Keller Days, and yes, I'll be back next year, if they will have me.

I was saddened to hear that Friday's 11pm newscast was the final one for WYOU-TV. I understand that local TV news is perhaps the biggest expense for a TV station, but it is also the only true identity a local TV station has. I started my broadcasting career as an intern at the old WDAU-TV 22, when it was in the basement of Scranton Prep, then when they moved to the old Kresge Building on Lackawanna Ave. I had the good fortune to work with the likes of Debbie Dunleavy, Derry Bird and Kent Westling, to name a few.

My question is, how does WYOU provide local programming of any kind now? I also wonder how CBS will respond to one of its affiliates not running a local newscast. Its not the same as the CW or My Network TV, which does not have network newscasts, or news content of any kind.

If I may offer a suggestion, why not simulcast the Frankie in the Morning show from 6 to 7am?
At least you will get an hour of local content, and even local news, weather and traffic. Better than whats on now, I would say.

Depressed Coal Mining Community

2009-03-30T09:08:00.000-07:00

Survived another birthday. It was my XLVII birthday, for those of you who are into Roman Numerology. I checked out the Timbers Buffet at Mohegan Sun, Great food, and I even walked out of the place with 30 dollars. Not too shabby. I walked around Lake Scranton on Friday, for the first time this year. A beautiful day to do so.

I caught the 20/20 feature on the Luzerne County judges. I have to agree with Frankie, enough already with referring to our area as a depressed coal mining community. Hey ABC! Take your cameras up to the Shoppes at Montage, or PNC Field, which is celebrating their 20th anniversary this year, or the Wachovia Arena, celebrating their 10th anniversary this year. Or the Mall at Steamtown in downtown Scranton and the movie theatres in downtown Wilkes Barre. This isn't a knock on our coal mining heritage, its just the reality that Northeast Pa. didn't die when the coal industry here did! We haven't had a working coal mine in Northeast Pa. since 1966!!! I'd like to hear the networks refer to San Francisco as that "earthquake ravaged community". A little consistancy if you will. Ah, it feels good to vent.

Taking The Plunge

2009-03-20T05:58:00.000-07:00

No, not the matrimonial plunge. I am going to jump in the lake, Harvey's Lake to be exact, Saturday around 12 noon at Pole 89. Its all for a good cause, proceeds from Lake Lehman High School's annual Polar Bear Plunge will benefit the American Cancer Society. People have been telling me to go jump in the lake for years, so...Hey, its Springtime, how cold can the water be anyway?

Well, my NCAA brackets are in shambles. I went 10-6 on the opening day Thursday, losing on BYU, Mississippi State, VCU, Minnesota, Butler & Illinois. Maybe today will be better.

March Madness & A Special Anniversary

2009-03-19T04:44:00.000-07:00

Don't expect much productivity at the office for the next 2 days. The NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament kicks off just after 12 noon today. I finished my bracket, and I predict when the dust settles, the Final Four will be Pittsburgh, Louisville, Memphis and Michigan. It will be Pitt & Memphis in the final, with the Pitt Panthers cutting down the nets at the end in Detroit. Another title for Pennsylvania, to add to the Phillies World Series title, and the Pittsburgh Steelers Super Bowl crown.

Today marks the 6th anniversary of the War in Iraq. Take some time out today to give thanks to all the men and women who are serving our country in Iraq, Afghanistan and all corners of the Earth. Northeast Pa is well represented with the 109th Field Artillery, and the 320th Military Police Battalion, just to name a few divisions.

I've Disgraced My Kinfolk

2009-03-17T03:45:00.000-07:00

Today is St Patrick's Day, and guess who forgot to wear green? Yeah, me. I wore green for Saturday's parade in Scranton, but not today. By the way, I don't want to say the parade was long, but I wasn't sure if we were at the end of Scranton's parade or the beginning of the Dunmore parade! (lol) At least I got to see my cousins, Jimmy and Patrick Murphy, who are on the parade committee. Every year, Pat gives me a shoutout from the grandstand as he announces all the participants when they arrive at Courthouse Square.

On Saturday I ran into former Scranton Mayor Jimmy Connors, who now has a park in South Scranton named after him, and I even say Hazleton Mayor Lou Barletta on Lackawanna Ave after the parade. Mayor Lou was Irish for the day I guess. My apologies to all my Murphy cousins. I forgot my green. I blame it on the early morning hours. When I leave for work, it still feels like the night before.

I'd like to wish my brother Jerry a very Happy Birthday today. Hope you and Dolly have a great day.

Luck of the Irish

2009-03-13T09:05:00.000-07:00

Looks like the Luck of the Irish will be with us this weekend. The weather for the parades in Scranton on Saturday, and Wilkes Barre & Jim Thorpe on Sunday looks good. I'll be in the Magic van for the Scranton parade. Expect at least 100 thousand people for the 48th St Paddys Day Parade in Scranton. The Wilkes Barre parade kicks off at 2pm on Sunday, and Jim Thorpe's annual parade gets underway at 1pm on Sunday.

This week on Sunday Magazine, we will be examining road rage and seat belt safety with several public safety officials. This Week in Harrisburg examines a series of bills to combat meth use in pennsylvania, as well as a state income tax credit for Pennsylvanians who purchase long term care insurance, a look at Wear Red Day to mark the fight against heart disease and stroke, and the prospect of higher electric bills for Pennsylvania consumers next year. And I'll be speaking with Harold Cameron of Scranton , the self proclaimed "Chief of Helping People" who discusses his role as a consumer advocate, and the power of positive thinking and living. Sunday magazine, Sunday morning at 6:30 on Magic 93.

The First Lady, Anoop and Daylight Savings Time

2009-03-11T08:39:00.000-07:00

I can't understand why everyone is giving First Lady Michele Obama so much grief over his fashion choices. After all, the Second Amendment says we all have the right to "bear arms".

I think Anoop is in trouble after last night's American Idol top 13 performances of the Michael Jackson catalogue. Wouldn't be surprised if America told Anoop to "Beat It" after last night's performance. The first hour was pretty good, but hour 2 dragged last night.

So the sun is staying out an hour later since the time change. Too bad we haven't seen the sun since Saturday! Hopefully we will see a little sunshine today, or else I'm hitting the tanning bed.
Too bad we couldn't replace this weekend's weather with last weekend's. That would make parade days in Scranton & Wilkes Barre a lot nicer. Hopefully the luck of the Irish will be with us this weekend. Celebrate safe everyone.

Watching The Watchmen

2009-03-09T08:48:00.000-07:00

Caught "The Watchmen" over the weekend. Not too surprised it was the number one movie in the country. Its not for the kiddies though. Talk about dark. Watchmen makes "The Dark night" look like "Pretty In Pink"!! Its 2 hours and 40 minutes long and based on the series of graphic comic novels written by Alan Miller in 1986. The series is considered to be the Holy Grail of comic novels. I'm interested to see how much repeat business it gets, since avid fans of the comics will be difficult to please. Despite the graphic scenes, the movie was amazing, and the visual effects incredible (and I'm not just talking about Mailn Ackerman's Silk Spectre spandex costume either).

Feeling a bit sluggish today. Not sure if its the time change or the Theraflu, (picked up a cold over the weekend) I blame it on Frankie. Give everyone a cold, and disappear to Orlando. Thanks Frankie. Better bring that Florida weather back with you!

Retooling "Reality TV"

2009-03-05T06:37:00.000-08:00

Some thoughts about this week's "Bachelor" finale. IS HE NUTS, OR WHAT?. Ok, I think its time to give these well worn shows some new life, starting with "The Bachelor".

For the final episode of "The Bachelor" Give Jason a 10 minute head start, and have all the angry bachelorettes hunt him down, just like the Arnold Schwartzenegger film, "Running Man" Guaranteed to be the most dramatic rose ceremony EVER.

American Idol: Have all the contestants sing while jumping through hoops of fire, or juggling chainsaws. Or give Ryan Seacrest a new co-host, TATIANA. Its turned into American Dramafest, why not show some real drama.

Apprentice: Time to dump the Donald. Replace him with Warren Buffett, someone who hasn't gone bankrupt 3 times in the past 10 years. Or even Jimmy Buffett, for the matter. Apprentice Margaritaville anyone?

Dancing With The Stars: How about some actual stars for a change? I would give anything to see William Shatner do the Paso Doble. Or Eva Mendes dancing the Lambata. Well, I can dream.

Survivor: At least one human sacrifice per season. Hey, the show is called "Survivor"!!!!

And relocate all the judge shows, Judge Judy, Joe Brown, etc to the Luzerne County Courthouse. I hear they're a few judges short.

March Madness

2009-03-02T08:53:00.001-08:00

And you thought March Madness was just a basketball tournament! At least we aren't getting pounded with snow like people from Atlanta to New England. As I write this, the snow outside the Magic 93 studios is beginning to diminish. We dodged a bullet this time, but I know there will be more snow in the forecast, followed by a few 60 degree days (then more snow).

Well, I have finally given in to peer pressure, and now have a Facebook page. Between a blog and a Facebook page, I have officially become a 13 year old girl (lol). Its still a work in progress, which is appropriate, because so am I. Well time to watch Hanna Montana.

Jumping The Shark

2009-02-26T08:33:00.000-08:00

Last night's American Idol truly "jumped the shark" The first 45 minutes were truly terrible, capped off by Nick (or is it Norman) Mitchell, who channeled Jennifer Hudson, (or was it Kate Hudson), and promised in song, that "He's Not Going Home". Thats what I'm afraid of. On the positive side, Allison, who's 16 going on 40 it seems, belted out "Alone" by Heart, and was the best of the night. Megan performed "Put Your Records On", and Kris Allen sung "Man In The Mirroe", (at least he was in tune). I think the final 3 from this fgroup will be Allison, Megan and Matt, who was a little off last night (weren't they all?) but has the likability factor in his favor.
The wildcard may be Kris. I knew I should have given up American Idol for Lent.

This week on Sunday Magazine, I will be interviewing "What's Your Name", the guy who dresses like Jesus. He's back in the area, and has a lot to say about faith, the troubled economic times, church closures and consolidations, and Catholic politicians and how they handle the abortion issue. Also Senator robert Mellow of Lackawanna County weighs in on how the federal stimulu bill will impact Pennsylvania, and Frankie warren speaks with our buddy Ron Evans about the upcoming Bowl For Kids Sake, to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters on Saturday March 28th at Stanton Lanes in Wilkes Barre. Tune in this Sunday at 6:30am on Magic 93.

3 out of 5 ain't bad

2009-02-23T04:54:00.000-08:00

Well, I was 3 for 5 in my Oscar predictions. I correctly guessed "Slumdog Millionaire'" would win for Best Picture, Kate Winslet for best Actress for "The Reader", and Heath Ledger for best Supporting Actor for "The Dark Knight". I missed on Penelope Cruz for Best Supporting Actress, I chose Taraji P. Henson, and Sean Penn took Best Actor, my pick was Mickey Roarke.

On the minus side, "The Love Guru" was the "best of the worst" at Saturday night's Razzie Awards, with Mike Myers taking the hat trick, for Worst Actor, Worst Film and Worst Screenplay. Paris Hilton also took home 3 Razzies, (she's hot, you know), and "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" took home the Razzie for Worst prequel, remake rip-off or sequal. It was a stretch, but come on, it wasn't that bad!!!

Congrats to the students at Penn State for setting a new record over the weekend for their THON dance marathon at the Bryce Jordan Center. The tudents raised more than 7.6 million dollars for the Four Diamonds Fund, which helps children with cancer.

Support the Troops tonight

2009-02-20T08:51:00.000-08:00

A big troop homecoming is scheduled for tonight in Luzerne County...A homecoming for 150 members from the 109th Field Artillery will be held tonight at 7:30pm at the Kingston Armory. The troops spent the past year in Afganistan and the Sinai Peninsula, and tonight's ceremony is open to the public. Stop by and show how much you support their efforts, and thank them for their service to our country.

Should be an interesting Oscar show Sunday night, with Hugh jackman, of X-Men Wolverine fame hosting the show. I think the big winners will be Slumdog Millionaire for Best Picture, Mickey Roarke for Best Actor for "The Wrestler", Kate Winslet for Best Actress for "The Reader", although she should have gotten that nomination for "Revolutionary Road" Best Supporting Actor should be a slam dunk, with the late Heath Ledger beoming the first actor since Peter Finch to win posthumously. Ledger's performance as the Joker in "The Dark Knight" turned a comic book movie into an art form. Finch picked up the Best Actor award for "Network" back in 1976. And Taraji P Henson is my windcard pick for Best Supporting Actress for "Benjamin Button". Henson was a cast member for Season 4 of "Boston Legal", one of my all-time favorite TV shows, so I am a little biased.

What To Watch.

2009-02-19T08:13:00.000-08:00

I was torn last night over what to watch, a one hour American Idol results show that could have only taken 5 minutes, or Lost...Hmmm, Tatiana or Evangeline Lilly? Tough choice, but I chose
the "time traveling island" and "smoke monster" over the overly drawn out dramafest. Don't worry about Tatiana. I'm sure she could be an acting coach, and if so, maybe her first client will be A-Rod!! Perhaps they could star in a telenovela together. Congrats to Danny, Aexis and Michael for advancing to the top 12 on Idol. I think Anoop will be the wild card from that group.

This week on Sunday Magazine, I will resume my series of interviews with members of the 320th Military Police Battalion based out of Ashley, and currently stationed at Camp Bucca in Iraq. This week, I will be speaking with Private First Class Mae Krayeski from Springville, who serves as a combat medic. Just want to let the people know even though Iraq has slipped off the front pages in recent months, we still have plenty of troops from our area serving their country.
Sunday Magazine airs every Sunday morning at 6:30am on Magic 93.

Presidents Day

2009-02-16T04:21:00.000-08:00

While its a day off for most of the staff, (and most everyone else) its another working day for some of us. Its kind of like working on a Saurday or Sunday. Since the boss isn't around today, we will hold our annual President's Day Chair Race down the hallway. Hope it ends better than yesterday's Daytona 500. At least in this race, weather won't be a factor.

Congrats to Barry Manilow for being inducted into the New York Friars Club over the weekend.
He put on quite a show on Feb 5th at the Wachovia Arena. Manilow joins the likes of Frank Sinatra and Billy Crystal, who were previous inductees. He took the teasing that comes with the induction in stride, telling the members that he has been teased ever since "Mandy" was released.

Here Come The Judges

2009-02-13T07:46:00.000-08:00

Well, there's nothing like picking up today's copy of the New York Times, and reading about Luzerne County Judges Michael Conahan and Mark Ciavarella on the front page. The network nightly newscasts were all staked out Thursday at the Federal Courthouse in Scranton to cover the story. You just can't buy that kind of publicity (or maybe you can...) Shameless plug alert!!!! Catch my interview with WBRE's Andy Mehalshick, (think I spelled his name right this time) on Sunday Magazine, Sunday morning at 6:30 on Magic 93, as we discuss the drama and corruption surrounding the Luzerne County Courthouse.

Thanks to Joe Rae for filling in on the news for me today. I'm normally not superstitious (knock on wood) given today is Friday the 13th, but hey, why take chances. Besides I'm going to spend the day at Camp Crystal Lake to take care of some "unfinished business" HA HA HA!

This Week on Sunday Magazine

2009-02-11T08:23:00.000-08:00

Pretty excited about this week's edition of Sunday Magazine. My guest is Andy Mehalchick of WBRE's I-Team, to discuss the contraversy and corruption surrounding the Luzerne County Courthouse. Its enough to make a former Illinois Governor blush. Catch Sunday Magazine, Sunday morning at 6:30am on Magic 93.

Is it just me, or is American Idol becoming American Drama Queen? Whatever happens to Tatiana, I'm sure there is a telenovela in her future. She's a good singer, but ease up on the theatrics! I think Lil' Rounds is the early favorite, but we'll see.

4 days until pitchers and catchers report for the Yankees and all everyone can talk about is A-Rod, (or is it A-Roid, or A-Fraud). I'm glad he came out and admitted his guilt, but I am curious to see if the other 103 names on the list will be published. TTFN.

Welcome to Brian's Blog

2009-02-09T05:57:00.000-08:00

I must say, last week was a busy one. On Wednesday, while having lunch at Mea's Restaurant in Downtown Hazleton, I met "What's His Name", a man who dresses like Jesus and travels from town to town. I'm hoping to have him on an upcoming edition of Sunday Magazine. If you happen to be in Hazleton, check out Mea's. Hey, you never know who you will see there.

And on Thursday, not only did I see Barry Manilow in concert, I met him after the show. I took my mother-in-law, Georgette to the meet and greet. During the concert, Barry asked the crowd if Wilkes Barre ever had any summer weather, I told him we have 3 weeks in August, and that's about it (lol) Will have the picture posted soon, I promise.

I'm also looking forward to interviewing Andy Mehalchick from WBRE's I-Team for an upcoming edition of Sunday Magazine to discuss the ongoing litany of scandal and corruption at the Luzerne County Courthouse. Who better to ask than Andy, who's covered that beat and that story for the past 2 years. Thats all for now.