What We’re Talking About

After more than 2 million tickets were sold for TAYLOR SWIFT’s 2023 Eras tour through Ticketmaster’s Verified Fan presale on Tuesday, the ticketing company announced Thursday (11-17) that a planned general sale for all other customers has been canceled. Ticketmaster stated that it was due to extraordinarily high demands on ticketing systems and insufficient remaining ticket inventory. The site was supposed to be opened up for 1.5 million verified TAYLOR SWIFT fans and instead had 14 million people hit the site — including bots. More than 90% of the ticketing inventory is already gone, breaking the record Tuesday for the most tickets ever sold in a single day by a touring artist. It’s unclear how the remaining tickets will be distributed or sold.

Due to extraordinarily high demands on ticketing systems and insufficient remaining ticket inventory to meet that demand, tomorrow’s public on-sale for Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour has been cancelled.

— Ticketmaster (@Ticketmaster) November 17, 2022

A woman from North Carolina watched and recorded video as a bear invaded her family’s Tennessee cabin grounds, broke into a vehicle and stole a bag of popcorn. She posted the video to Facebook, where she noted they later learned the bear had broken into another nearby car and stolen a bag of chips. The family says they learned from the experience and won’t leave food inside their car again while camping.

A new seasonal stunt product is out and this time it’s from Spam. A few years ago Spam came out with a pumpkin spice variety of the canned meat and this year they’re coming out with Spam Figgy Pudding. Check out the commercial they released for their new Christmas product.

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by The SPAM® Brand (@spambrand)

“The variety features cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice and cloves, along with popular winter flavor profiles like fig and orange flavors,” Spam writes in its announcement.  The holiday variety is available now while supplies last in two-packs of 12-ounce cans….suggested retail price is $10.00.

The house made famous in the movie “A Christmas Story” is officially up for sale in Cleveland, Ohio. You can see the listing on AChristmasStoryHouse.com. The listing includes 1.3 acres of property, and includes the Bumpus house, the gift shop, museum and a number of vacant lots. While the exact price of the property has not been announced, the listing agent says he expects to see a number in the eight-figure range. In the past, fans of the 1983 holiday film have been able to visit the house and see original costumes, props, and other beloved memorabilia associated with the character Ralphie Parker and his family.  

The sequel, “A Christmas Story Christmas” is available on HBO Max starting tomorrow(November 17th).

Periodic bouts of mostly light snow are expected into Thursday. While heavy snow is not anticipated, the extended period of light snow will result in accumulations for most, if not all of the area. The higher amounts are currently favored across portions of Minnesota into northwest Wisconsin. That said, enough snow could accumulate on area roads to make for some slick travel from time to time. Be prepared to dust off your winter driving skills – you might need them.

On November 11, 1940, a rapidly deepening low pressure system moved northeast from Kansas City, MO northeast through the Upper Mississippi River Valley and into the Upper Great Lakes. This low pressure area produced the lowest pressure reading ever recorded up to this time at Charles City, IA (28.92 inches), La Crosse, WI (28.72 inches), and Duluth, MN (28.66 inches).

Armistice Day (now known as Veteran’s Day) began with blue skies and temperatures in the 40s and 50s. The weather forecast for that morning was for colder temperatures and a few flurries. The day was so nice that duck hunters dressed in short-sleeved shirts rushed to the marshes along the Mississippi River early that morning.

During the late morning and early afternoon, a strong cold front moved through the region. Behind this front, the weather became rather blustery and the temperature plunged to the single digits by the next morning. The rain turned to sleet and eventually to driving snow. Twelve duck hunters were trapped on the Mississippi River between St. Paul and Prairie du Chien by gale-force winds and threatening waves. These hunters sought shelter on small islands and eventually froze to death. Rescue work the next day was hindered by ice which had developed during the preceding night.

Elsewhere heavy snow fell across the Dakotas, much of Minnesota and Iowa, and northwest Wisconsin. The greatest snow total was 26.6 inches in Collegeville, MN. In addition, 30 to 50 mph winds caused considerable blowing and drifting of snow which trapped unsuspecting motorists.

Twenty foot drifts were reported near Willmar, MN. The blizzard left 49 dead in Minnesota, and gales on Lake Michigan caused ship wrecks resulting in another 59 deaths. The storm claimed a total of 154 lives, and killed thousands of cattle in Iowa. More than a million turkeys were killed by the storm in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and other states. The storm became know as the “Armistice Day Storm”.

After the Armistice Day Storm of 1940:

In the days and weeks after the storm, the U.S. Weather Bureau responded to criticism that it failed to predict the huge blizzard. Officials said they knew a storm was coming, but were wrong about its strength and scope.  Perhaps the most embarrassing revelation was that no one was watching the storm’s explosive development in the pre-dawn hours of November 11 (the low pressure deepened 1-2 millibars per hour over a 24 hour time period). A retired government forecaster says the Midwest headquarters in Chicago was not staffed overnight. The uproar led to several changes.

Source:  National Weather Service

Last night at the CMA’s, Alan Jackson performed and was given the Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award. Check out Alan’s heartfelt acceptance speech.

A house with real square footage … There was an old woman who lived in a shoe, and for about $269, you could, too. The owners of a shoe-shaped house in Pennsylvania are now renting it out on VRBO for short-term stays. Known as the Haines Shoe House, it was built in 1948 by Mahlon Haines, who owned a chain of shoe stores in Pennsylvania. The current owners, Waylon and Naomi Brown, bought the house in July and renovated it. It features three shoe-themed bedrooms, which have been dubbed, “Shoelace Space,” “Instep Suite” and “Ankle Abode.” Reservations are available starting at $269 a night.

It was a big night for Luke Combs, Lainey Wilson and Cody Johnson at Wednesday at the CMA Awards.

Luke took home two of the most coveted awards of the night – Entertainer and Album of the Year, while Lainey scored the New Artist win, then collected Female Vocalist of the Year. Cody also earned two CMA awards — his first, for Single and Video of the Year, both for “Til You Can’t.”

Also,  Chris Stapleton won Male Vocalist of the Year Award for a sixth time.

One of the biggest surprises of the night may have been when Brothers Osborne took the stage to accept their Vocal Duo trophy and John announced that he and wife Lucie Silvas are expecting twins.

Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning proved to be both hilarious and thoughtful co-hosts, but the evening wasn’t without a little good-natured football ribbing. Peyton, a University of Tennessee alum, introduced a clogger hoofing to “Rocky Top” until Luke, a Georgia Bulldogs fan, shut it down.

WINNERS

• Entertainer of the Year: Luke Combs
• Female Vocalist of the Year: Lainey Wilson
• Male Vocalist of the Year: Chris Stapleton
• Vocal Group of the Year: Old Dominion
• Vocal Duo of the Year: Brothers Osborne
• New Artist of the Year: Lainey Wilson
• Album of the Year: Luke Combs – Growin’ Up
• Single of the Year: Cody Johnson – “Til You Can’t”
• Song of the Year: Jordan Davis – “Buy Dirt”
• Musical Event of the Year:  Carly Pearce and Ashley McBryde – “Never Wanted to Be That Girl”
• Music Video of the Year: Cody Johnson – “Til You Can’t”
• Musician of the Year: Jenee Fleenor
• Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement: Alan Jackson

Here are the winning Powerball numbers!

YouTuber MrBeast was giving away stacks of money and iPhones on Halloween, but one kid preferred the candy. “I was handing out $10,000 on Halloween and one kid tried to trade the $10k for candy,” MrBeast, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, said. On video, the child could be seen trying to hand the stack back. MrBeast ended up giving the child the money AND a Feastables bar.

@mrbeast He almost gave the money back 😂 #halloween ♬ original sound – MrBeast

“Holiday Lights Opens November 23”

Helping Services for Youth & Families is happy to announce the opening of the 18th annual Holiday Lights event, held at Pulpit Rock Campground in Decorah. Holiday Lights is an annual fundraiser for Helping Services for Youth & Families, a nonprofit organization with programs that promote healthier and safer families throughout Northeast Iowa.

Thanks to the help of volunteers and sponsors, Holiday Lights will be ready for the opening Walk-through Night on Wednesday, November 23rd from 5:00 pm to 7:30 p.m. Visitors will be able to walk-through to see the lighted displays up close. Parking will be available at the soccer fields on Pulpit Rock Rd with shuttle buses provided by EARL Public Transit to transport visitors into Holiday Lights, or at the Twins Springs side of the campground that connects by a footbridge. Visitors are invited to stroll through the lighted displays and enjoy donated soups, cookies, and hot chocolate while supplies last. There will be a live Nativity hosted by St. Benedict’s Parish, carols performed by local choirs, photos with Santa, and “Pokey Pete” train rides for children, weather pending.

The Holiday Lights drive through event begins Thanksgiving and is open nightly, 5:00 to 9:00 pm until Christmas night. Santa will visit Holiday Lights every Friday through Sunday from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. leading up to Christmas. Santa’s last night will be Sunday, Dec. 18th. Returning this year is the fireworks show on Friday, December 9, starting at 6:30 p.m. over downtown Decorah. All guests are welcome to enjoy the show in the Decorah High School football stadium.

A free-will donation will be collected as you enter the gates of Holiday Lights. All donations benefit Helping Services for Youth & Families. For the complete schedule and list of sponsors, please visit www.helpingservices.org/holidaylights.

JASON ALDEAN and his wife, BRITTANY ALDEAN, always turn out for Halloween and this year was no exception. Yesterday (Monday, October 31st), the couple shared an almost four-minute video of them spoofing ‘Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy’ as Ron Burgundy and Veronica Corningstone that pokes fun at LUKE BRYAN, KANE BROWN and the recent social media feud between Brittany and MAREN MORRIS.

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Jason Aldean (@jasonaldean)

Photo Credit:  jasonaldean via Instagram

Who remembers the “Blizzard Of 1991”??? Here are some of the details from the National Weather service from Halloween of 1991.

In 1991, a low-pressure system developed on Halloween morning over southeast Texas and moved rapidly north-northeast, reaching its maximum intensity (984 mb) just east of La Crosse, WI on the afternoon of November 1st. This storm became known as the “Halloween Blizzard” in most of Minnesota and the “Halloween Ice Storm” in Iowa and portions of southeast Minnesota.

Snow moved into southern Iowa during the afternoon of October 30th and then spread into northern Iowa and Minnesota early on October 31st. Warm air aloft wrapping around this low-pressure area caused the snow to change into a mixture of snow, sleet, and freezing rain by mid-morning on Halloween across southeast Minnesota and much of eastern Iowa, and this mixture continued until the late afternoon of November 1st. One to two inches of ice accumulated from southwest Iowa into north central Iowa, and from 2-3″ of ice accumulated across south central and southeast Minnesota.

In Iowa, Interstate 35 was closed down by fallen power lines. 80,000 homes were without power and there was $63 million in utility damage. Ten to fifteen percent of the corn crop was still in the fields and the combination of ice, snow, and wind from this storm flattened some fields. Crop damage was estimated up to $5 million. This storm is considered the most costly ice storm in Iowa history. It took over a week to restore power in some rural areas. Governor Terry Branstad declared 52 of 99 counties as disaster areas.

In south central and southeast Minnesota, 11 counties were declared federal disaster areas due to this ice storm. The total damage was $11.7 million. According to the National Weather Service publication Storm Data, “at least 20,000 people experienced power outages from October 31st to November 2nd as many power lines and poles snapped under the weight of the ice. Many rural areas were without power for about a week. Governor Arne H. Carlson declared a state of emergency in Freeborn and Mower counties. The National Guard was called upon to help provide generators to rural farmsteads. The National Guard armory and a local mall in Albert Lea were both used as the shelter for many stranded motorists November 1st and 2nd. At the height of the storm, an 180 mile long stretch of interstate 90 from South Dakota border to Rochester was closed.”

During the evening of November 1st, arctic air moved into the region, changing the precipitation to all snow. The snow continued until midday on November 2nd. 6 to 10″ fell across Winona and Houston counties in southeast Minnesota, and La Crosse county in southwest Wisconsin. Meanwhile, 3 to 6″ of snow fell across the remainder of southeast Minnesota, portions of western Wisconsin, and a small portion of northeast Iowa. These amounts are small in comparison to the snowfall from Red Wing, MN northward to the Duluth, MN area. This winter storm dropped 28.4″ of snow on the Twin Cities (single storm record for the metropolitan record) while Duluth received 36.9″ of snow (the largest single storm total in MN history).

Wind speeds of 30 to 50 mph and gusts to 60 mph on November 1st and 2nd created blizzard conditions across eastern South Dakota, Minnesota, western Iowa, and extreme western Wisconsin. This storm closed schools, businesses, bridges, and public transportation systems for several days. Clean up was hindered by numerous accidents and abandoned vehicles.

At least 20 people died in Minnesota due to traffic accidents or heart attacks from digging out after the storm. In addition, two Wisconsin hunters died when their boat was capsized in Lake Onalaska during the storm.

Mc Donald’s has brought back the McRib sandwich once again! If you’ve never had one, according to the Mc Donald’s website, it’s “seasoned boneless pork dipped in a tangy BBQ sauce, topped with slivered onions and dill pickles, all served on a toasted homestyle bun.”  They are hinting that this might be it for the pork sandwich, as the website also says this is the farewell tour.  The Mc Rib will be available at participating locations beginning October 31st until November 20th.  

Tune in every Monday morning around 6:45, and we’ll get a detailed harvest report from our friends at Beck’s Hybrids.  We’ll also hear about how Beck’s is helping farmers be successful this harvest season.  If you missed any of the reports, they are below for your listening pleasure.

Monday, October 3rd

Monday, October 10th

Monday, October 17th

Monday, October 24th

WYNONNA JUDD will continue The Judds: The Final Tour into next year, she announced yesterday (Monday, October 24th) on NBC’s ‘Today’ show. The 11-date arena tour with several of her favorite female artist friends filling in for her late mother, NAOMI JUDD, kicked off last month. Many of those same women — ASHLEY MCBRYDE, BRANDI CARLILE, KELSEA BALLERINI, LITTLE BIG TOWN, and MARTINA MCBRIDE – will all be returning for the second run, an additional 15 dates set to launch on January 26th in Hershey, PA. Tickets go on sale to the general public starting on Friday (October 28th) at 10 a.m. local time at TheJudds.com.

Cuddle a turkey … Lots of people have a turkey on their table for Thanksgiving, but an animal rescue wants people to have a different turkey experience. The Gentle Barn, with locations in Santa Clarita, California; Nashville, Tennessee; and St. Louis, Missouri, is offering “turkey cuddling” on Thanksgiving. “We are inviting you on Thanksgiving Day to cuddle our turkeys,” The Gentle Barn said in a press release. For a donation ranging from $25-$50, depending on the location, visitors can spend 90 minutes with the birds.

Loretta Lynn’s memorial service will air live from the Grand Ole Opry on CMT on October 30th. 

Those honoring Loretta include George Strait, Brandi Carlile, Keith Urban, Tim McGraw, Little Big Town, Barbara Mandrell, Crystal Gayle, Darius Rucker, Faith Hill, Margo Price, Martina McBride, Sheryl Crow, Tanya Tucker, The Highwomen and more.

Coal Miner’s Daughter: A Celebration of the Life and Music of Loretta Lynn will be hosted by NBC’s Jenna Bush Hager. 

Most of us know the Cookie Monster, but did you know that’s his nickname, and not his real name? In a Tweet, the official @MeCookieMonster account wrote, “Did you know me name is Sid? But me still like to be called Cookie Monster.”

Did you know me name is Sid? But me still like to be called Cookie Monster.

— Cookie Monster (@MeCookieMonster) October 13, 2022

Some people were shocked by the revelation, with replies demanding to see a birth certificate. The Cookie Monster first revealed his name in 2004 in a song, but it seemed to fly under the radar.

SHANIA TWAIN is joining the cast of ABC’s ‘Beauty and the Beast’ 30th Anniversary Special to play the part of Mrs. Potts. She shared the big news on social media on Monday (October 17th) writing in part, “I am unbelievably honored and excited… and all of the emotions(!!) . . .” ‘Beauty and the Beast: A 30th Celebration’ will be taped in front of a live audience at Disney Studios and will air on Thursday, December 15th at 7:00 PM.

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Shania Twain (@shaniatwain)

According to ‘Today,’ a sequel to the 1996 film ‘Twister’ is in the works at Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment. Titled ‘Twisters,’ the new movie follows the daughter of HELEN HUNT and BILL PAXTON’s characters from the original film, as she chases storms like her parents. Universal did not comment on whether Hunt would be reprising her role. Paxton died at the age of 61 in 2017 due to complications from a heart surgery.

Let’s take a look back at the original…

The first teaser for the “Christmas Story” sequel is here. There isn’t any new footage, only some sound bites of the classic movie. “A Christmas Story Christmas” will stream on HBO Max, November 17th.

On November 17, Ralphie returns. #AChristmasStoryChristmas is coming exclusively to HBO Max. Full trailer coming soon! pic.twitter.com/0rXVtKQney

— HBO Max (@hbomax) October 17, 2022

Photo Credit:  hbomax via Twitter

The next time you forget to take out your contact lenses and think it’s no big deal, you should be reminded of this California woman. An ophthalmologist was visited by an elderly patient who came in for a routine eye exam and was shocked when she discovered as many as 23 forgotten contact lenses stuck under her eyelid. The doctor believes they had been there for about a month. She posted about it on Instagram and said she needed to use very fine surgical instruments to remove them all. 

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Ophthalmologist | Dr. Katerina Kurteeva M.D. | Newport Beach (@california_eye_associates)

​The Canadian Pacific (CP) Holiday Train will return to the rails this season on its first cross-continent tour in three years, following virtual concerts in the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021. The train will again raise money, food and awareness for local food banks in communities along the CP network.

“I’m grateful to the CP team members who adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic to deliver two exceptional virtual Holiday Train shows and to all those who continued to donate while we kept community members safe,” said Keith Creel, CP’s President and Chief Executive Officer. “The Holiday Train is all about families and communities coming together to celebrate the season and help those in need. We are excited to be back out on the rails and in our communities, taking these two beautiful trains across our network and sharing the joy that comes with gathering in the spirit of giving.”

The 2022 tour will launch on Nov. 23 with the Holiday Train’s first-ever Maine shows in Jackman, Brownville Junction and Hermon. Also for the first time, the Holiday Train will host shows on Nov. 24 in Lac-Megantic, Sherbrooke and Farnham, Que.; the first Canadian stops of 2022. The tour will feature 168 live shows, including Toronto on Nov. 29; Bensenville, Ill., on Dec. 2; Davenport, Iowa, on Dec. 3; Kansas City, Mo., on Dec. 4; Calgary on Dec. 11; and a final show in Port Coquitlam, B.C., on Dec. 18. A full schedule is available at cpr.ca/holidaytrain.

Live music is essential to the CP Holiday Train experience. This year’s performers will include Alan Doyle, Tenille Townes, Mackenzie Porter and Lindsay Ell, to name a few. Details about this year’s artists and which performers will play which shows are available at cpr.ca/holidaytrain.

Holiday Train shows are free to attend. CP asks attendees to bring a cash or non-perishable food donation if they’re able. Local food shelves will set up collection stations at each event, with all donations made staying with the local food bank to help people in need in the community. Because local food shelves buy food at a discount, cash donations can go further than food donations to help those in need.

“Food banks and communities across Canada are so excited to see the CP Holiday Train return, as it brings together the City of Calgary to kick off the holidays and give back at the same time,” said Calgary Food Bank President and CEO James McAra. “The Calgary Food Bank is so grateful for CP’s continued support to help us build a Canada where no one goes hungry.”

Since the Holiday Train program launched in 1999, it’s raised more than $21 million and collected 5 million pounds of food for community food banks across North America.

“This year, more than ever, the support, awareness and goodwill that the CP Holiday Train brings will make an impact beyond imagination to the food support programs of East Side Neighborhood Services,” said Mary Anstett, Vice President, Community Engagement for East Side Neighborhood Services in Minneapolis. “With the support that Holiday Train brings in, we can rest assured that so many will have warm nutritious food on their tables in the coldest months.”

About Canadian Pacific

Canadian Pacific is a transcontinental railway in Canada and the United States with direct links to major ports on the west and east coasts. CP provides North American customers a competitive rail service with access to key markets in every corner of the globe. CP is growing with its customers, offering a suite of freight transportation services, logistics solutions and supply chain expertise. Visit cpr.ca to see the rail advantages of CP.

Stops in our area will happen on Wednesday, December 7.

Guttenberg- East side of Schiller Street railway crossing from 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM 

Marquette- Marina parking lot, north off Casino Queen Marquette at Water Street & Hwy 76 from 3:00 PM – 3:30 PM.

Lansing- Ball field on South Front Street between North 2nd and Dodge Street from5:00 PM – 5:30 PM. 

New Albin- Parking lot adjacent CP tracks on Railroad Street between Ross Avenue & Oak Street from 6:30 PM – 7:00 PM.

La Crescent- The Commadore Food & Spirit parking lot, 215 South Chestnut Street from 8:30 PM – 9:00 PM.

Photo Credit:  Canadian Pacific via Facebook

Scotty McCreery  has received the Randy Owen Angels Among Us award from St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for his commitment to furthering their mission. Alabama’s own Randy Owen presented him with the trophy at the Country Cares Seminar in Memphis.

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by St. Jude (@stjude)

Just in time for the upcoming holiday season, a twist on a holiday favorite:  Eggo Nog Sippin’ Cream.  Kellogg’s and Sugarlands Distilling in Tennessee are spreading the holiday cheer this year with Eggo inspired egg nog liqueur.  The 40 proof nog will be available at selected retailers.

 

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Eggo (@eggo_us)

Photo Credit:  eggo_us via Instagram

Last Tuesday was Hump Day at an In-and-Out Burger location in Las Vegas when a camel appeared at the drive-thru window wanting fries.

A man named Brandon Nobles walked his camel, Fergie, to the drive-thru and ordered food. Workers there were understandably shocked, but it was the highlight of their night. Nobles explained to them that Fergie is 14-years-old and loves French fries. They then watched as Fergie enjoyed her snack. According to Nobles’ Instagram page, Fergie also enjoys going to Wendy’s and Einstein Bros. Bagels. 

Everyone knows how expensive oil is these days, and that apparently goes for used cooking oil as well. 

A couple of Florida men were arrested after they were caught trying to steal 7,000 pounds of used cooking oil from a barbecue restaurant. A police officer happened to drive up to Woody’s Bar-B-Que at 3:15 am and spotted two men in their 40s wearing headlamps and pumping the used cooking oil out of a large vat in a fenced area and into a container inside a box truck. The men, as police found out, own a recycling company which typically pays restaurants for their used oil and then recycles it into diesel fuel.

The oil the men were stealing is said to be worth about $5,000. They were arrested on burglary charges. Police also advised other restaurants to check if they’ve had any cooking oil stolen.

BLANCHARD, Okla. – Grammy award-winning recording artist Jody Miller passed away yesterday morning in Blanchard, Oklahoma from complications related to Parkinson’s Disease. She was 80 years old. Miller first signed to Capitol Records as a folk artist in 1962, landing her first single “He Walks Like a Man” on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1964. Best known for her 1965 Grammy-winning hit “Queen of the House,” Miller became a country star overnight when the single crossed over from the pop to country charts, cementing her status as a pioneering cross-over artist whose radio-friendly versatility paved the way for the likes of fellow artists such as Linda Ronstadt, Anne Murray, and Olivia Newton-John. In 1966, Miller went on to win the Grammy award for the song, becoming the second woman to pick up the trophy for “Best Country Performance—Female.”

According to Miller’s longtime representative Jennifer McMullen, “Jody Miller’s talent cannot be overstated. She had this innate, God-given ability to interpret and communicate with the most beautiful tones and inflection. She made it look and sound so easy that it sometimes takes a moment to realize the greatness of what you are hearing. But she was just as authentic and exceptional in her own life as she was on stage and on record.”

Throughout the ’60s, Miller recorded for Capitol Records, releasing scores of singles such as the hit teen pop anthem “Home of the Brave”, as well as the richly expressive Hot Country charter and fan favorite “Long Black Limousine,” while making multiple appearances on teen shows such as Shindig and American Bandstand.

In the ’70s, Miller began recording for Epic Records in Nashville, working with Billy Sherrill as one of his premiere Countrypolitan artists, notching several hits, including the Top 5 singles “Baby I’m Yours,” There’s a Party Goin’ On,” “Darling, You Can Always Come Back Home,” and the Grammy-nominated cross-over hit “He’s So Fine.” With her beauty and charisma, Miller became a frequent guest on shows such as Hee Haw and Pop! Goes the Country.

In the early ’80s, Miller retired from touring to spend time at home with her daughter Robin and husband Monty Brooks, helping to manage his thriving quarter horse breeding and training business at their farm in Blanchard, Oklahoma. In the early ’90s, Miller rededicated her life to Christ as a born-again Christian and began a gospel music ministry, sharing her testimony through story and song, recording half a dozen gospel albums, culminating in her induction into the International Country Music Hall of Fame.

With all of her accolades, Miller was deeply devoted to her family. Following the death of her husband of 52 years Monty Brooks, Miller began performing with her daughter Robin Brooks Sullivan and her grandchildren Montana and Layla Sullivan as Jody Miller and Three Generations, releasing a single in 2018 “Where My Picture Hangs On the Wall.” In 2021, Miller attended the groundbreaking for a Blanchard Public School Building named for her, The Jody Miller Performing Arts Center, an honor which she called “better than a Grammy!” Dealing with the symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease in the past few years, Miller made the decision to enter the studio one last time in 2020 for an upcoming project Wayfaring Stranger on Heart of Texas Records. The title spiritual song, part of the artist’s folk repertoire back in the ’60s seems a fitting bookend to her 60-year career. As label President Tracy Pitcox explained, “Jody lived her life, just as she conducted her career, with the utmost class and dignity.”

Arrangements are currently pending. 

For the fifth year in a row, the team at All Home Connections found the most searched Halloween costume in each state. This year, witches and cats rule the nation with a combined 22 states searching for them most.

But don’t underestimate the power of pop culture—costumes inspired by Lightyear and Encanto also made the list with 11 states searching for characters from these new Disney classics.

Whether you’ll attend a monster mash or stream the newest scary movie on your couch, here’s a look at the biggest costume trends of the year, so you can decide if you’ll join the crowd or try something new. 

Freaky Facts 

• The classic cat costume is the most googled Halloween in the most states, with 12 states searching for it most.
• Eleven states searched for witch costumes the most. With Hocus Pocus 2 out, it’s no wonder their popularity has soared.
• Vampire is the most searched costume in the third most states. Perhaps it’s due to Twilight’s resurgence in popularity.
• Disney has influenced several states this year, with Buzz Lightyear and Encanto inspired costumes being searched most in six and five states, respectively.
• Mississippi and Nevada searched for Elvis Presley costumes the most, perhaps motivated by the biopic about the singer released earlier this year.
• With HBO’s House of the Dragon garnering 20 million viewers in its premiere episode, it’s no surprise some states have Game of Thrones on their minds—Jon Snow is the most searched Halloween costume in Alabama and Oklahoma. 

Paradise Valley Presents the PVC Haunted House.  Open to the public every Saturday now through October 29th.  Hours are from 7:00-11:00 PM.  Admission is $10.00 per person.  Location is 19745 Keystone RD, Garnavillo, IA.  

Caledonia, MN- Scare at the Fair is happening October 21st & 22nd, 28th and 29th at the Houston County Fairgrounds.  Hours are 6-10 PM.  From 6-7pm will be a child friendly version of the haunt. Not so scary and lights will be on.  Admission for KID FRIENDLY is $5.00, after 7pm, tickets are $10.00.  Proceeds are going towards the Livestock Building Project.

Spring Grove, MN- Trick or Treat Friday evening, October 28th.

Waukon, IA- Trunk or Treat on Saturday, October 29^th at Iron Ridge Church. Begins at 3:00 PM

New Albin, IA- Halloween Party Saturday, October 29th from 11-1 PM at the splashpad.  Free family event with a hot dog lunch, costume contest, hayride, pumpkin painting, scavenger hunt, and Halloween games.  Costume contest at 12:30 PM.  

Waukon, IA- Waukon EMS Association  5K Chiller Fun Run/Walk that will be held at Empty Nest Winery on Saturday, October 29^th. This will be an off road course with a Halloween vibe. Costumes are not required, but are encouraged for a spooktacular time! Same day registration will begin at 3:00 p.m. 5K Chiller Fun Run/Walk begins at 4:00 p.m.

Arlington, IA- Halloween Party at the Arlington Community Center on Saturday, October 29th from 7:30-Midnight.  Boos & Brews at 7:30.  DJ starts at 8:45.  Costume Contest for 21 and up.  $5.00 cover charge.

Spillville, IA- Saturday October 29th – Halloween Costume Bash at the Inwood Ballroom.  Have fun and help raise funds for Winneshiek Medical Center Hospice. Music by Triple Threat. Prizes for costumes.  8:00 pm – midnight. Doors open @ 7:30.

Elma, IA- Kids Halloween Masquerade beginning at 4:00 at the Elma Memorial Hall on Saturday, October 30th.  Trick or Treat to follow.

Eastman, WI- Spooktacular Pancake Breakfast from 6 AM- Noon at the Eastman Community Building on Sunday, October 30th.  Serving Pancakes, French Toast and Ham.  Dine-in or Carryout.  Sponsored by the Eastman First Responders.

Protivin, IA- Trick or Treat on Saturday, October 30th from 1-4PM. Don’tT miss out on photos and goody bags at the “CAT house.” This is the white house across from the storage unit close to the apartments. SPOOKY surprises inside for those who dare enter.

Caledonia, MN- Trick or Treat Monday, October 31st from 4-8 PM.

Calmar, IA- Trick or Treat Monday, October 31st from 4-7 PM.

Monona, IA- Trick or Treat Monday, October 31st from 5-8 PM. 

Elkader, IA- Trick or Treat Monday, October 31st from 5-7 PM. 

Waucoma, IA- Trick or Treating will be Monday, October 31st from 4:30-7:30 PM.  Leave your porch light on if you like some spooky visitors.

Waukon, IA- Good Samaritan and Evergreen Court residents invite you to Trick or Treat on Monday, October 31st from 3:30-5:30.

Ridgeway, IA- Trunk or Treat- Sunday, October, 30th from 4:00-5:30 PM at the Ridgeway Community Center parking lot.

Ossian, IA- Trick-or-Treating will be on October 31st from 4-7pm.

Spillville, IA- Trick-or-Treating will be on October 31st from 6-8pm.

Decorah, IA- Trick-or-Treating will be on October 31st from 5-8pm.

Postville, IA- Trick-or-Treating will be on October 31st from 5-7pm.

Waukon, IA- Trick-or-Treating will be on October 31st from 4-8pm.

Monona, IA- Trick-or-Treating will be on October 31st from 5-8pm.  Trunk or Treat happening from 5-8 PM  at West Center Street.

Lansing, IA- Main Shriek Lansing presets Trick or Treat on Main Street from 4:30 to 6:00 PM on Monday, October 31st.  Trick or Treat at participating businesses.  Halloweenies & Haunted Chocolate at Lansing Office Works 5:00- 6:30 PM.

West Union, IA- Trick or Treating Door to Door is October 31st from 5-7pm. Residents- please turn your porch lights on so the little ghosts and goblins know where they can come to.

Lanseboro, MN- Trick-or-Treating will be on October 31st from 3-5pm at participating businesses.

Prairie du Chien, WI- Crawford County Treatment Court presents The Haunted Dungeon on Monday, October 31st from 5-8 PM at the Crawford County Courthouse.  Walk through the oldest jail in the state of Wisconsin and hear the stories of those who were condemned to stay there.  This spooky family friendly tour is free to all.  Free will donations will be accepted and proceeds will go toward community service projects and addiction awareness efforts in Crawford County. 

Ossian, IA- The City of Ossian and the Ossian Crown Club will be hosting a “Hot Dog Handout for Halloween”. The event will be on Halloween night, Monday, October 31, from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm or until the hot dogs are gone outside of the Ossian Community Center.   The “Hot Dog Handout for Halloween” will include a free hot dog, chips, McDonald’s apple slices, and a fruit drink.

Waukon, IA- 4-H Junior Halloween Party on Sunday, November 6th at Zion UCC- Waukon from 4:00 PM until 5:30 PM.  For 4th-6th Grade 4-H Allamakee County Members.  Please RSVP to the Allamakee County 4-H Office by Tuesday, November 1 by calling 563-568-6345 or email foelsm@iastate.edu

Got an event?  Let us know!  erik@kneiradio.com

With seconds remaining in the first half of last night’s “Monday Night Football”, a man ran onto the field at Levi’s Stadium carrying a pink smoke flare. As yellow-clad security staffers struggled to keep up, a pair of Rams defenders saw their opportunity. When the protestor ran on the sideline in front of the Rams bench, defensive end Takkarist McKinley chased the protestor directly into the path of All-Pro linebacker Bobby Wagner, who trucked him into the turf.

OMG BOBBY WAGNER JUST TRUCKED THE FAN THAT RAN ON THE FIELD pic.twitter.com/uwoEzkrFxc

— Cameron Salerno (@cameronsalerno1) October 4, 2022

Photo Credit:  Cameron Salerno via Twitter.

>>UPDATE:  BREAKING NEWS! Lid’s Bar & Grill in Waukon is home to the 2022 Iowa’s Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin!  The 2022 runner-up is Ludlow’s Steakhouse in Corydon!>>  Scroll down for video!

For two decades, Iowa’s Best Breaded Pork Tenderloin Contest has been drawing attention from connoisseurs near and far. After all, the coveted title is not just given away in what many consider the heart of tenderloin country.

The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) is kicking off National Pork Month by revealing the five Iowa restaurants vying for this year’s top award. Listed alphabetically by town, those finalists are:

• Corydon — Ludlow’s Steakhouse
• Massena — Main Street Bar & Grill
• Olaf — St. Olaf Tavern
• Van Meter — 5th Quarter Bar & Grill
• Waukon — Lid’s Bar & Grill

“Even after 20 years, we continue to discover new variations of the classic breaded pork tenderloin sandwich,” said Kelsey Sutter, IPPA’s marketing and programs director. “Some are thick. Some are thin. And you’ll find a diversity of seasonings, textures, and flavors. That all makes selecting a winner incredibly challenging.”

Qualifying pork tenderloins must be hand-breaded or battered. In addition, the Iowa restaurant serving them needs to be open year-round and offer the sandwich as a regular menu item. Food trucks, concession stands, seasonal eateries, and catering businesses are not eligible.

IPPA will announce the first- and second-place winners later this month, dubbed #Porktober22 on social media channels as part of the monthlong celebration of pig farmers and the great product they produce.

The annual quest to find the state’s juiciest, most flavorful tenderloin sandwich starts with public input. Each spring, tenderloin fans have about two months to nominate their favorites. This year IPPA received 4,812 votes for 449 establishments.

Judging of the top 40 took place this summer. That list included the five restaurants with the most nominations in each of IPPA’s eight districts, which “helps ensure statewide representation,” Sutter said.

IPPA members and industry affiliates anonymously visited those locations and scored the tenderloins based on pork taste and quality; physical characteristics; and presentation.

From there, IPPA’s restaurant and foodservice committee reviewed those 40 evaluations and selected the five contenders to advance to the next round. That same committee appointed a panel of three judges to travel to each of the finalists to determine the first- and second-place winners.

The winning restaurant will receive $500, a plaque, a banner to display, and statewide publicity that will drive new business. The runner-up is awarded $250 and a plaque from IPPA.

Saturday (10-1) marked the anniversary of the mass shootings that took place at the Route 91 Harvest Festival in Las Vegas, where Jason Aldean was on stage at the time. He posted this weekend about it and wrote, “5 years later and it’s still a rough day.” On that day in 2017, a lone gunman killed 58 people when he opened fire from his room at the Mandalay Bay hotel, just across the street from the festival.  “11 Minutes”, a documentary on the shooting is now streaming on Paramount+.

As Hurricane Ian hit Florida with raging winds and a massive storm surge, in the middle of all that a shark swam through the streets of Fort Myers. Check out the video…

@Gutfeldfox somehow a shark ended up in a Fort Myers neighborhood during Hurricane Ian.. pic.twitter.com/l3WbzgNQHj

— Brad Habuda (@BradHabuda) September 28, 2022

Hurricane Ian is leaving a trail of destruction throughout Florida, and a man who’s in the middle of it is Jim Cantore of the Weather Channel.  If a major weather event is happening, he’s there.  Yesterday got a little scary for Jim, as he was reporting he was hit by tree branch.  Thankfully, Jim is alright.

Jim Cantore got hit by a flying tree branch during hurricane report pic.twitter.com/ybONC3VR51

— Gifdsports (@gifdsports) September 28, 2022

Photo Credit: gifdsports via Twitter

The Dragon’s Breath pepper is so spicy that it is showcased in a sealed container. Kelly Joel Myers can tell you firsthand how spicy it is, as he ate three of them last weekend! Myers is the winner of this year’s Easton Farmers Market pepper-eating contest. 10 contestants participated in total, and Myers won after the 11th round. The tiebreaker rounds included Carolina Reapers and Dragon’s Breath peppers. Myers, who goes by Hot Pepper Boi on YouTube, has shared the full video of the competition.

The Pro Bowl as we know it is no more. The NFL announced that the all-star game would be replaced by week-long skills competitions and other events with a flag football game between the AFC and NFC on February 5th in Las Vegas. Part of “The Pro Bowl Games” will be produced by Peyton Manning’s Omaha Productions, and Manning will be on the coaching staff for the flag football game at Allegiant Stadium. The East-West Shrine Bowl, the senior collegiate showcase football game, will also be played in Las Vegas during the week.

Introducing the 2023 Pro Bowl Games presented by Verizon.

Coming to @Vegas this February. pic.twitter.com/RdJRsMBK5U

— NFL (@NFL) September 26, 2022