Dallas Report

WVU lands at the Fiesta Bowl!!!!

2007-12-03T17:09:00.000-05:00

WVU is off to the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl to take on Oklahoma!!!!

Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Site: University of Phoenix Stadium (73,000)
Kick-Off: 6:00 p.m. MST (8:00 p.m. EST)
Television: FOX (Matt Vasgersian, Terry Donahue, Pat Haden and Laura Okmin)
Radio: ESPN Radio (Sean McDonough, Bob Davie and Stacey Dales)
Mountaineer Sports Network (Tony Caridi, Dwight Wallace and Hoppy Kercheval)
Sooner Sports Radio Network (Bob Barry, Sr., Mark Rodgers and Merv Johnson)

Highlights of last week's CMA's!

2007-11-12T15:10:00.000-05:00

I've compiled my favorite clips from the 41st Annual CMA awards from last Wednesday.....with comments etc....

If you missed the awards last week you can catch the rebroadcast on Thanksgiving night on CMT. That'll be some great after Turkey viewing and listening...

Kellie Pickler.....wow all I can say is I was crying. Knowing her history and how her mother left her at the age of two makes this song all the more powerful. Her father has been in and out of jail. Basically Kellie grew up without a proper biological father and mother. She feels every single word of this song. And there she is singing her life on stage for all the world to see. Kellie you're the best!!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b1XdZtYG1ms

Jennifer Nettles is a powerhouse. This performance of "Stay" was the bomb!!! She's got the goods. From the calls I get at the station this is a favorite of a lot of women and not so many men. Still a powerful tune and worth every second.....

http://youtube.com/watch?v=p1z-UP-ynDc

My favorite performance of the night was by a band that's never done an awards show before.....I loved them 28 years ago when they last released a studio album and I love 'um now(as does Kenny Chesney, Garth Brooks, Tim McGraw, Phil Vassar and many others)

The Eagles. These guys have the best harmonies!!!

http://youtube.com/watch?v=xcxudMY38ug

There you go!! I'll be watching with the in-laws in Chicago on Thanksgiving night!!

Have a great week and keep listening for details on Shop-a-pa-looza!!! It's gonna be some shop-a-holic fun!!!

Big Weekend in Clarksburg!!

2007-11-08T15:36:00.000-05:00

Hope you're having a great day!! The fall almost winter weather has kicked in and I love it!!!

Lots' of cool stuff planned for the holidays.

Listen Friday afternoon November 9 to win a $25.00 gift certificate to Eat-N-Park and FREE music from Kody's Prize Den.

Cool Stuff to do and see this weekend!!!
Nickel Creek plays a farewell concert Friday November 9th at 7:30pm at WVU's Creative Arts Center. Tickets are available. This is one awesome band!!!

This weekend on Saturday November 10th...I'll be hosting the Colgate Country Showdown at Village Square in Clarksburg. This is the Northeast Regional Final and will feature the 10 best acts from the Northeast....... The winner will go on to compete on the National stage against the southeast/midwest and west coast winners. Some big name acts in the past have gone one to stellar careers and you should come out to see who's gonna represent West Virginia and the area.

Tickets are available at the door on Saturday night. Showtime is at 7pm. We'll see you there at Village Square in Clarksburg.

For more details on the Colgate Country Showdown go to: http://www.countryshowdown.com/

The Eagles Fly Once Again!!! Yipee!!!

2007-10-26T16:23:00.000-05:00

It's finally here.....I've waited 28 long years for a new studio album from one of my favorite bands of all times.....The Eagles.....
Don Henley, Glenn Frey, Joe Walsh and Timothy B. Schmidt....
They are absolutely the best...
The Long Road Out of Eden features, "How Long" which you've been hearing on WKKW.
Below is a complete track listing.....
It's specially priced and a two album set and available only at Wal-Mart on Tuesday October 30....

No More Walks In The Wood
How Long
Busy Being Fabulous
What Do I Do With My Heart
Guilty Of The Crime
I Don't Want To Hear Any More
Waiting In The Weeds
No More Cloudy Days
Fast Company
Do Something
You Are Not Alone
Long Road Out of Eden
I Dreamed There Was No War
Somebody
Frail Grasp On The Big Picture
Last Good Time In Town
I Love To Watch A Woman Dance
Business As Usual
Center Of The Universe
It's Your World Now

Here's a link to a review in Billboard Magazine....

http://www.billboard.com/bbcom/news/article_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003648769

Eagles will be performing six nights in October with the Dixie Chicks as a Grand Opening celebration for the new NOKIA Theatre L.A. LIVE in downtown Los Angeles on October 18, 20, 21, 24, 26, and 27.
http://www.eaglesband.com/
Myspace:www.myspace.com/eaglesmusic

Trick or Treat Times for North Central West Virginia!!

2007-10-24T15:46:00.000-05:00

Alright Moms and Dads.....Here's the scoop on trick or treat times for all our ghosts and goblins for North Central West Virginia for Halloween 2007......
Have fun and here's hoping everybody eats a few apples and oranges with all the dum-dum pops, candy corn, dots, Snickers and Reese's Cups!!!!

AUBURN, RITCHIE COUNTY: OCTOBER 28 FROM 5:30PM-6:30PM. HALLOWEEN PARTY AT THE COMMUNITY BUILDING IMMEDIATELY AFTER

BELINGTON, BARBOUR COUNTY:OCTOBER 31 FROM 5:30PM-6:30PM

BEVERLY, RANDOLPH COUNTY: OCTOBER 31 FROM 5:30PM-7PMBLACKSVILLE,

MONONGALIA COUNTY: OCTOBER 31 FROM 5:30PM-6:30PM

BRANDONVILLE, PRESTON COUNTY: OCTOBER 31 FROM 5:30PM-7PM

BUCKHANNON, UPSHUR COUNTY: OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-7PM

CAIRO, RITCHIE COUNTY: OCTOBER 31 FROM 5:30PM-7:30PM

CAMDEN-ON-GAULEY, WEBSTER COUNTY: OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-8PM

CLARKSBURG, HARRISON COUNTY: OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-7PM

MIDDLETOWN MALL; KID'S HALLOWEEN PARTY AND DANCE; OCTOBER 26, 2006 FROM 6PM-9PM. FREE FOOD AND DRINKS. SPONSORED BY BAXTER VFD AND MARION COUNTY RESCUE SQUAD

COALTON, RANDOLPH COUNTY: OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-7:30PM

DAVIS, TUCKER COUNTY: OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-8PM AGES 12 AND UNDER

ELKINS, RANDOLPH COUNTY: OCTOBER 31 FROM 5:30PM-7PM

ELLENBORO, RITCHIE COUNTY: OCTOBER 31 FROM 5:30PM-7PM

FAIRMONT, MARION COUNTY: OCTOBER 31 6:30PM-7:30PMFAIRVIEW, MARION COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-7PM

FARMINGTON, MARION COUNTY (825-6442): OCTOBER 31; PARADE FROM 6PM-6:30PM; TRICK OR TREAT 6:30PM-8PM

FLEMINGTON, TAYLOR COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-8PM; FLEMINGTON DAYS COMMITTEE WILL HAVE TREATS AND DRINKS AT THE OLD JAIL BEHIND THE COMMUNITY BUILDING DURING THESE HOURS

GLENVILLE, GILMER COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-7:30PM

GRANT TOWN, MARION COUNTY: OCTOBER 31; PARADE AT 5:30PM; TRICK OR TREATING FROM 6PM-7PM; HOT DOG PARTY FROM 7PM-8PM AT THE COMMUNITY BUILDING

GRANVILLE, MONONGALIA COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-7PM

HAMBLETON, TUCKER COUNTY OCTOBER 31 6PM-8PM

HARRISON COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION TRICK OR TREAT ALTERNATIVE; HALLOWEEN PARTY AT MEADOWBROOK MALL SEARS COURT

HARRISVILLE, RITCHIE COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 5:30PM-7PM

HUTTONSVILLE, RANDOLPH COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-8PM

KINGWOOD, PRESTON COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 5:30PM-7PM

LEWIS COUNTY: OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-7PM

LUMBERPORT, HARRISON COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-7PM

MANNINGTON, MARION COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-8PM

MASONTOWN, PRESTON COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 5:30PM-7PM

MIDDLETOWN MALL; KID'S HALLOWEEN PARTY AND DANCE; OCTOBER 26, 2006 FROM 6PM-9PM. FREE FOOD AND DRINKS. SPONSORED BY BAXTER VFD AND MARION COUNTY RESCUE SQUAD

MILL CREEK, RANDOLPH COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-8PM

MORGANTOWN, MONONGALIA COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-7PM

MORGANTOWN MALL: TRICK OR TREATING NIGHT; OCTOBER 26 FROM 6PM-8PM

NUTTER FORT, HARRISON COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-7PM

PARSONS, TUCKER COUNTY OCTOBER 28 FROM 6PM-8PM

PENNSBORO, RITCHIE COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 5:30PM-7PM

PHILIPPI, BARBOUR COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 5:30PM-6:30PM

PLEASANT VALLEY, MARION COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 6:30P-7:30PM

PULLMAN, RITCHIE COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 5:30PM-7PM

REEDSVILLE, PRESTON COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 5:30PM-7PM

RIVESVILLE, MARION COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-7PM

ROWLESBURG, PRESTON COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 5PM-6:30PM

SALEM, HARRISON COUNTY: SALEM HAUNTED HOUSE AT SUNBRIDGE CARE AND REHABILITATION OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-8PM CALL 782-3000 FOR MORE INFORMATION

SAND FORK, GILMER COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-8PM

SHINNSTON, HARRISON COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-7PM

STAR CITY, MONONGALIA COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-7PM

STONEWOOD, HARRISON COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-7PM

TERRA ALTA, PRESTON COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 5:30PM-7PM

THOMAS, TUCKER COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-8PM AGES 12 AND UNDER

UPSHUR COUNTY: OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-7:30PM

WEBSTER SPRINGS, WEBSTER COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-7:30PM

WEST UNION, DODDRIDGE COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-7PM

WESTOVER, MONONGALIA COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 6PM-7:30PM

WORTHINGTON, MARION COUNTY OCTOBER 31 FROM 5PM-6:30PM

Halloween Happenings!!

2007-10-15T16:47:00.000-05:00

Hello from the Tri-Cities,

Halloween is only a couple weeks away and we're getting you ready at 97.9 WKKW. Listen to Big John in the mornings, Tracy Stevens in the midday and myself in the afternoon to win passes to Grey Skull Haunted House in Clarksburg. This was voted the BEST Haunted Attraction in West Virginia last year. And this Thursday night will be a family friendly night(not quite as scary and perfect for the kids) So come on out. Here's the scoop:

Grey Skull Manor

Special Events :
Thursday Night October 18 2007 Family Fun Night at the haunted house from 7- 9 p.m. NOt as scary Live Radio Remote Free Pop Corn and Face painting for the kids and Special guest Appearance by Scooby DOO himself Live at the location!! All events and times are subject to change call ahead to plan accordingly.

Greyskull Manor offers special rates for Groups and churches please call ahead for more information.

What Evil Lurks Within the walls of GREYSKULL MANOR? Come find out for yourself... IF you DARE!!!!

Open Nightly October 11- 31st Sundays - Thursdays 7 p.m. - 10 p.m. Friday & Saturdays 7 - 12 midnight

Old Bridgeport Hill RD ( old Route 50) Beside Rollins Market and Napa Store

25 Minute Tours
25 live actors
Special effects and props from Don Post Studios in Hollywood CA
15 Rooms
1 Maze
. Find out the story at the GREYSKULL MANNOR.. Not for Cry Babies!!! or the weak of heart once you enter the manor there is NO TURNING BACK

Admission $10.00 Adults $8.00 Children

Proceeds to Benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters for North Central WV

Voted Best Haunted House in the state 2006

Rascal Tuesday and Dierks is coming to Town!!!

2007-09-24T15:42:00.000-05:00

Well it's finally here. The release date for the Rascal Flatts, "Still Feels Good" CD is Tuesday September 25 and I can't wait. From what I've already heard it's gonna be bigger than their last album from 2006.(which, by the way was the biggest seller of the year 2006)
They'll appear on GAC nights on Tuesday. Also on Good Morning America on ABC.
Tuesday nite look for Rascal Flatts on David Letterman. There's also gonna be a USA Today feature story on Tuesday. And a story on their current tour in the 9/28 edition of People magazine. They'll also be on CNN in the next week. And of course they will perform live at the CMA awards from Nashville on November 7th. Wow!!! What a schedule. When do those guys sleep?
Some tidbits about the new Rascal Flatts:

Their current single, "Take Me There" was written by Kenny Chesney. Guitar player Joe Don Rooney c0- wrote "Scare Me" on Kenny's new CD "Just Who I Am, Poets and Pirates" Talk about switcharoni deals......

The guys wrote 5 of the 13 tunes on the new album. Jamie Foxx does a duet on "She Goes All The Way"

Joe Don played most of the major guitar solos on this album.

When the video for "Take Me There" was shot in Malibu, California in August, the temperature was 111!

Rascal Flatts have sold more than 15 million albums since their self-titled debut back in 2000.

They were the best selling artist in all genres of music in 2006. How about that Kanye West and 50 Cent?

Rascal Flatts is the reigning ACM and CMA Vocal Group of The Year.

The band's 2006 tour played to over one million fans in 74 cities.

I saw the "Still Feels Good" Tour show in Raleigh, NC last month with my eight-year old, Logan and six-year old, Tyler and they loved it. The encore, " Life Is a Highway" .....20,000 people singing along...it was amazing!!! Of course my boys know the tune because it's on the CARS soundtrack. What a live show. And during the show, Joe Don, Gary and Jay thank God for their lives and careers. Now that I love!!!

Here's hoping they sell a boatload of the new one. They deserve it!!!
They're good guys!!

Where is Big John? In a buffet line at Ryan's in Fairmont? At the Hotel Morgan grabbing free newspapers and coffee? At the FBI center in Bridgeport trying to get a job as an undercover agent? In Nutter Fort, changing Tires at an Auto Repair shop? Well we'll give you clues and it could be you walking off with free tickets to see Dierks Bentley and Jack Ingram at the WVU Coliseum on November 3rd. We'll give you clues to where Big John is, and if you find him you win!! We promise we'll make it easy for ya. We wanna see you at the show!!!
Have a great week!!!
Don't forget to join us for Kevin Sharp for the Make A Wish Foundation at Mylan Park on September 30th.

Reba Duets and Almost Fall Ruminations!

2007-09-17T15:35:00.000-05:00

The Reba Duets CD comes out in stores on Tuesday September 18 and I anticipate she'll do fairly well in sales. This is a star packed album. Of course you might have already heard the leadoff single, "Because of You" with Reba's fast new friend and fan, American Idol Kelly Clarkson. The album also includes duets with Kenny Chesney, Ronnie Dunn, Vince Gill, Faith Hill, Rascal Flatts, LeAnn Rimes, Trisha Yearwood Justin Timberlake, Carole King and Don Henley. As Kelly Clarkson so eloquently stated, "Reba is the voice of a generation. She's an icon" I couldn't agree more!! 31 Years in the biz and she's still going strong.

The NASCAR NEXTEL CUP Chase for the championship officially started on Sunday at New Hampshire and RCR driver Clint Bowyer now leads the points after winning the Sylvania 300. Who would have ever thought Clint would be in the driver's seat after one week?

Ruminations after the weekend:
Can anybody stop Robert C. Byrd? This is one incredible high school football team. I'd like to see them play University High. University barely got by a great Elkins team on Friday night.

Thanks to everyone who came to the West Virginia Outdoors Hunting and Fishing Expo this past weekend at the Pro Performance Indoor Arena at Mylan Park.
Thanks to Allan and Ed who make some fine flintlock and Long rifles. Quality craftsmanship for sure. Allan has his West Virginia Mountaineer Type Gun(which is a one of a kind) on display at Damon's Restaurant and you can go by and see it(or buy it)!!! It's $6000.00 of the most original gun anybody's ever seen.

Went to the fireworks at the Mason Dixon Festival on Friday night! It was incredible. I watched it from the top of the parking deck at the Waterfront Place Hotel. That is a great vantage point to watch the fireworks from.

Hello To The Tri-Cities!!! Go WVU!!!

2007-09-10T16:00:00.000-05:00

Hey thanks to everybody who have called and welcomed me to the Tri-Cities. Talk about some super nice people. A big thank you to Morgantown Auto Repair for fixing up my road weary Toyota and to Robbie Murray at Summers Towing for getting me going after I broke down this morning. I'm set for a great week.
We've got the WV Outdoors Hunting and Fishing Expo coming up this Saturday and Sunday with our friends from Budweiser. Join me on Saturday from 10am-1pm and Sunday from 10am till noon at Mylan Pro Performance Park. Dove season just arrived and deer season is on the way!! Crisp fall camping nights await as well. The folks from Gander Mountain will be there as well as Sportrider Outdoors. If camping, hunting fishing is your thing or someone in your family loves the outdoors then this is the event to come to..... Directions...Pro Performance @ Mylan Park
Take Star City/ WVU exit 155
Turn left and follow US 19 East
Pro Performance is on the Right

Listen to WKKW all week for your chance to win tickets for the upcoming NASCAR race in Dover. Your chance to meet all 43 drivers before the race. Now that's a dream come true.
WVU takes on Maryland this weekend!! It'll be a war!!!
Thanks for listening and keep on keepin' on!!
Dallas

Off To New Adventures!

2007-08-30T14:01:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow is my last day at the NEW 99.9 Genuine Country. As many of you might have read in the Triangle Business Journal, the station is changing to a sports talk format. Which, in ACC country is great news! But for me, not so good. I'll be moving on to a new country station in another city. Pretty much just like the theme song to the 70's TV Show, WKRP in Cincinatti......town to town, up and down the dial. The radio life is a gypsy life and I certainly have lived up to that creedo. I have lived in Six different cities in the past 20 years. But I wouldn't trade it for the world. To be able to play great music and have fun, talk with great people like you and just enjoy life and try to help folks get through the trials and tribulations by sharing a laugh. That's worth everything! So please listen and call in your requests. It's gonna be fun....3p-7pm....

For info on where I'll be going go to http://www.dallasreese.com/ and www.myspace.com/dallasreese
Thanks for the fun!!! Off To New Adventures!
Yours in Country Music
Dallas

Flatt Out Awesome!

2007-08-23T12:29:00.000-05:00

Went to see Rascal Flatts at The Creek on Sunday night and now I know why they were the biggest selling act of 2006. They are amazing! Lights, video, musicianship, great songs, smoke....it was one incredible show. Felt like it was the 70's and I was seeing KISS again!! I took my sons Logan and Tyler and it was their very first concert. They loved it!! Gary, Joe Don, and Jay finished the show out with two encores and the very last song was the one I expected(because I've seen the movie about 300 times with my kids) Life is A Highway! That Cars soundtrack has been a big part of my household for the past eight months or so.

Rascal Flatts new album is called "Still Feels Good" and it will be in stores on September 25th. The first single, "Take Me There" is currently on 99.9 Genuine Country. Tell me what you think by writing to me at: dallasreese@usa.net I'd love to hear your thoughts on the song.

The picture on this blog is a sneak peek of the cover for the new album....

Takin' Toys from Kids!

2007-08-15T14:48:00.001-05:00

Recalls galore this week. The Chinese have a problem. I know, I've been there. I've seen how things operate. The Chinese don't have standards like we do here (as evidenced from recent food recalls) and they certainly don't have stringent government agencies like the FFA, FDA, FTC, EPA etc. that we have here in America to keep our planes, food, toys and environment safe. And of course there are countless other oversight agencies here to protect us from harm. I'm not a fan of big government, but in the case of safety and security, I'm all for it. We do a great job in the USA of making sure things run smoothly. I feel sorry for all the parents out there like myself, who now have to take toys away from our kids. Best way is to just make them disappear or go buy a replacement. Maybe something not made in China. Of course, I think all toys are made in China now. We might have to go old school and start making our own toys again like my great-grandfather did in Highlands, NC back in the late 1800's.

Here's a list from Parenting magazine of recalled toys from the past couple days:

Polly Pocket Magnetic Play Sets B2632 Polly Pocket! Polly Place Hangin’ Out House B3158 Polly Pocket! Polly Place Treetop Clubhouse B3201 Polly Pocket! Spa Day B7118 Polly Totally! Polly Place Totally Tiki Diner G8605 Polly Pocket! Quik-Clik Boutique H1537 Polly Pocket! Quik-Clik City Pretty Playset H1538 Polly Pocket! Quik-Clik Sporty Style Playset H3211 Polly Pocket! Totally Zen Playset 55503 Polly Pocket! Happenin’ Pet Station B2631 Polly Pocket! Polly Place Magnetic Additions Assortment B3203 Polly Pocket! Activity Lunchbox B3204 Polly Pocket! Activity Locker B3207 Polly Pocket! Collectible Lip Gloss B3209 Polly Pocket! Collectible Make Up Powder Puff B3210 Polly Pocket! Dip N’ Dive Pool B3396 Polly Pocket! Birthday Surprise B7078 Polly Pocket! Dazzlin’ Pet Show Divine Dogs B7082 Polly Pocket! Rick’s Magic Show B7125 Polly Pocket! Sweet Treats B7127 Polly Pocket! Birthday Mailbox B7128 Polly Pocket! Stretch Polly Disco Lamp B7129 Polly Pocket! Jewelry Box Purple B8478 Polly Pocket! Polly Magnet Bus B9521 Polly Pocket! Collectible Caboodle B9522 Polly Pocket! Activity Lunch Box Pink B9523 Polly Pocket! Activity Locker Orange B9525 Polly Pocket! Polly Glitter Puff B9578 Polly Pocket! Collectible Caboodle Purple B9929 Polly Pocket! Fashion Boutique on the Go C0504 Polly Pocket! Birthday Mailbox Pink C0505 Polly Pocket! Jewelry Box Yellow C1341 Polly Pocket! Disco Lamp C1342 Polly Pocket! Disco Lamp Purple G8602 Polly Pocket! Mermaid Stars G8606 Polly Pocket! Quick Click Playset G8612 Polly Pocket! Snow Cool Hotel G8614 Polly Pocket! Quick Click House of Style Playset G8615 Polly Pocket! Polly by Me Totally Beadiful G8616 Polly Pocket! Quick Click Penthouse H1553 Polly Pocket! Quick Click Movie Time Playset J1659 Polly Pocket! Pollywood Limo-Scene Vehicle J1661 Polly Pocket! Pollywood Dial A Style Lila J1662 Polly Pocket! Pollywood Dial A Style Lea J1670 Polly Pocket! Stick N’ Style J1681 Polly Pocket! Pollyworld Rockin’ Theme Park Playset J1687 Polly Pocket! Pollyworld Dress N’ Drive Lounge Playset J1695 Pollyworld Theme Park Party Quick Click Doll and Fashion J4169 Polly Pocket! Pollyworld Quick Click Polly Doll J4170 Polly Pocket! Pollyworld Quick Click Crissy Doll J4171 Polly Pocket! Pollyworld Quick Click Lea Doll J4172 Polly Pocket! Pollyworld Quick Click Shani Doll J9305 Polly Pocket! Pollyworld Costume Art Lea J9306 Polly Pocket! Pollyworld Gift Shop Lila J9648 Polly Pocket! Twirl and Swirl Beauty Case J9965 Pollyworld Dial a Song Polly Fashions J9966 Pollyworld Dial a Song Polly Fashions K3460 Pollyworld Rockin’ Tour Bus H1554 Polly Pocket! Quick Click Pool Party Playset ►Read the CPSC Report
Doggie Day Care Magnetic Toys H1532 Doggie Day Care Coco H1533 Doggie Day Care Sparley G4461 Doggie Day Care Lula and Baby G4462 Doggie Day Care Crockett and Baby G4464 Doggie Day Care Taffy and Baby G4459 Doggie Day Care Snack Time with Cookie G4460 Doggie Day Care Diaper Change with Ginger H1530 Doggie Day Care Ice Cream with Ranger G9703 Doggie Day Care Puppy Park with Dixie G4457 Doggie Day Care Dream House Nursery with Honey G4458 Doggie Day Care Bath Time with Beau ►Read the CPSC Report
Sarge Die Cast Toy Cars ►Read the CPSC Report
Barbie and Tanner Magnetic Toys ►Read the CPSC Report
Batman and One Piece Magnet Action Figure ►Read the CPSC Report
Parenting.com, August 2007

Here's a link to some painless ways to take the toys away from the kids....
http://www.cnn.com/2007/HEALTH/family/08/14/par.toy.tips/index.html

Garth is Back! And I've got your Gretchen Wilson tickets!!

2007-08-14T14:04:00.000-05:00

Well he says he's not gonna tour till his youngest daughter is out of school.(which will be 2015) I'll have a few more gray hairs by then, and I imagine Garth will as well, but I'll still go see him then because he is one incredible live performer. For now we'll have to get our Garth fix in the form of new music coming out most likely in mid-November(just in time for the Christmas shopping rush) Here's the scoop:

Garth is having a press conference in Nashville this weekend. I'll bring you audio from the press conference next Monday. Be sure to tune in on Monday between 3pm and 7pm on 99.9 Genuine Country.

The three disc box set is gonna include four new tunes and a cool DVD. Garth has been in Nashville over the past month or so recording the tunes for Big Machine records(same label as his wife Trisha Yearwood) Trisha has a fantastic new tune out as well. It's called Heaven, Heartache and the Power of Love. It's got that classic Trisha sound and I think it's gonna do pretty well for her. The family that sings together, stays together. What a husband and wife.
I'll have the scoop on Garth Monday. Join me then.

The Redneck Woman is Coming to Roanoke Rapids!!
Gretchen Wilson will be joined by the Charlie Daniels Band at Carolina Crossroads on Saturday September 22 and you're invited. Listen this week between 3pm and 7pm and I'll have your free tickets for this rollicking good time.

Have a great day!
Dallas

How to Live Off of 4 Hours of Sleep a Night!

2007-08-02T13:56:00.000-05:00

Well I was shocked when I read this new article from this month's Discover Magazine. It seems that sometime down the road we'll all be able to get by on only four hours of sleep a night. Think of the possibilities: Get more done....work, play, chores,vtime with the kids. If only it really works. Guess we'll have to wait till we all have the devices. When I was a kid, I always thought all that crazy stuff on the Jetsons could never really happen. Now I'm starting to believe......We've already got videophones where you can see you're talking to....and I think floating hover cars aren't far off. And, of course you can get a magnetic shot of energy to improve your memory and help you get by on less sleep. Don't ya just love technology!

Here's the scoop from DISCOVER magazine.....

A good night’s sleep just takes too long. Scientists may soon be able to cut those eight wasted hours down to three or four—by waving a wand, more or less.
The technique, transcranial magnetic stimulation, involves an electromagnetic coil that emits pulses of skull-penetrating, neuron-activating magnetic energy. Depending on where the wand is and how fast it pulses, TMS can play all kinds of tricks. It can make a thumb twitch, create the illusion of a flash of light, or even treat depression. Neuroscientist Giulio Tononi of the University of Wisconsin set out to see if TMS could switch on certain sleep phases.
Working with a group of six sleeping men, Tononi and his team located a spot on the skull that they could zap to induce the brain waves characteristic of deep, non-REM sleep. Although Tononi’s volunteers got only a few minutes of artificial sleep—not enough for the volunteers to draw meaningful subjective conclusions about sleep quality—previous studies have indicated that TMS applied at certain frequencies during sleep can improve memory. Even more intriguing, says Tononi, “there is the possibility that if you have particularly intense slow waves” like the ones the machine induces, “you may be able to do with less sleep.”
Electronic naps are a long way off, though. Between the armchair, the clicking coil, and electrodes, “it’s clearly not a machine that you can use at your house,” Tononi says. “It’s actually hard to get the person to sleep while doing these magnetic stimulations.”

Don't Mess With Faith's Man!!!

2007-07-31T15:19:00.000-05:00

Faith Hill is my kinda woman!! Have you heard what happened Saturday night at a show in Louisiana!! Here's the scoop:

Want a handful of TIM MCGRAW? Be prepared for an earful from his wife, FAITH HILL. At a stop on the couple's Soul2Soul tour Saturday at the Cajundome in Lafayette, Louisiana, a female fan grabbed Tim in the crotch area as he walked between a barricade and the stage to greet fans. Shortly thereafter, in front of the whole crowd, Faith barked at the fan in a brief rant that was of course captured on tape. "Somebody needs to teach you some class, my friend," she chides the fan. "You don't go grabbin' somebody else's, somebody's husband's [private parts], you understand me? That's very disrespectful." A rep for Faith confirmed that the fan had grabbed Tim and said "Faith dealt with the situation on the spot and said all that needed to be said from the stage."

Click here to see the video of Faith protecting her man: http://www.tmz.com/tmz_main_video?titleid=1125900995

Now that's my kind of woman! You go girl!!!

Kenny Mania overtakes the Triangle!!!

2007-07-30T14:08:00.000-05:00

Kenny Chesney takes over the triangle this weekend, with two sold out shows at Walnut Creek Amphitheatre Friday and Saturday. If you don't have tickets, be sure to tune in 99.9 Genuine Country. We are your Kenny Konnection!! (I had to get that alliteration in there)
Vince Daniels has tickets every morning this week!! One winner is gonna sit in the VIP box with Vince on Saturday night August 4th!!!
Until Tuesday, you can drop by JR Outlets in Burlington(off I-40) and in Smithfield(off I-95) to sign up to win tickets. Vince will draw the grand prize winner on Friday morning, as the Triangle goes Kenny Krazy all week!!!

Listen here Friday afternoon for tons of Kenny tunes and pre-concert tailgate fun!!!

Six Degrees of Martina Premires Tonight!!!

Tonight on ABC it's the premiere of "Six Degrees of Martina." This is a show about six potential singing stars who do their best to find someone who knows someone, who knows someone, who knows somebody, who knows Martina McBride. Interesting concept, and Martina says she had a blast filming the show! Expect some interesting background and info on Martina's upbringing in Kansas! For more details go to http://www.abc.com/

Have a great week! July is almost over. Before you know it we'll be back to school! Of course, I guess that's all relative to where you live, since we have year-round schools in Wake County now!!
Dallas

So You Think You Can Write a Great Country Song?

2007-07-11T06:20:00.000-05:00

Have you ever wondered to yourself, I can write a great country song but nobody knows how good I really am? Well now there's a chance for you to show off your songwriting skills and impress the best in the business. My longtime friend Phil Vassar is one of the judges for the Music City Songwriting Competition. You have until August 31 to get your entry in and it doesn't have to be anything more than a vocal/piano or vocal/guitar demo. Now if you want to fully produce a demo that's fine but the song is what really matters. As long as the words and the melody are communicated clearly.
Here's the scoop from the Nashville Convention and Visitors Bureau.....

Be a part of the FIRST Music City Songwriting Competition and make history!Write a song. Send it in.Win a trip to Music City to get your song professionally produced by Universal Records South.Perform it with Phil Vassar on XM Satellite Radio show "Music City Connection: Heroes Behind the Hits."Share your music with the world. For more details go to: http://themusiccitysongwriter.com/

Happy Birthday America!!!

2007-07-02T14:14:00.000-05:00

This Wednesday marks the 231st Birthday of the greatest country in the world and to celebrate we're gonna have special patriotic tributes and tunes for ya all day on July 4th. Be sure to tune in to Vince Daniels on Wednesday morning from 6am-10am for FREE tickets to the Soul 2 Soul 2 Tour with Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. When Vince plays two Tim McGraw or Faith Hill songs back-to-back be caller nine at 860-0999 or toll free 1-866-344-0999 and you'll pick up two tickets for the show at Greensboro Coliseum on July 2oth.

Congrats to Barton College graduate Anthony Adkinson.....(Anthony is the guy who scored 10 points in the final 45 seconds of the NCAA Division II National Championship game to lead the Wilson school to the title against previously unbeaten Winona Minnesota State. ) Anthony has been picked by the Harlem Globetrotters to join the team. What memories I have of Meadowlark Lemon, Curly, Goose and the rest of the Trotters I saw when I was a kid. What a great way for Adkinson to follow his love of mentoring kids and continuing his basketball career. What a story, what a season, what a great way to follow your dreams!!!!! Make sure to vote for Anthony and the Barton College team in the ESPN Espy awards. They're up for best finish. Here's a link to vote: www.espn.go.com/espy2007/index.html#/vote/
just click on best finish, and then Barton College.......
I hope they win!!!

Live Free or Die Hard! Bruce is Back!

2007-06-20T14:16:00.000-05:00

Well I just got through watching the previews and trailers for the new Bruce Willis sequel..."Live Free or Die Hard" It's "24" on the big screen. Bruce(John McClane in the flick) is Jack Bauer. He doesn't die no matter what kind of crazy situation he gets into. I love these movies. They're so mindless and basically are just a great escape. Looks like I'll be popping into the theatre in July to check this one out. It officially opens on June 27. This is the fourth installment in this series. Remember the first Die Hard...?? It came out in 1989 or so. Wow, what longevity. I bet it does big bucks at the box office! If you love action, you'll love it.
Here's a link to some extended clips from the movie..........

http://meta.yahoo-streaming.jp/webevents/yahoo/movie/diehard4/trailer03_1m.asx A Japanese website, they have posted two extended clips from Live Free or Die Hard, The film stars Bruce Willis, Justin Long, Maggie Q, Timothy Olyphant, Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Jonathan Sadowski.The 10-minute high-definition clip has 2 scenes from the movie, showing the incredible non-stop action from the film ... definitely worth the watch!!!

The Summer of 2007 is on the way!

2007-06-19T15:33:00.000-05:00

Summer officially arrives on Thursday June 21 and once again Old Spice has listed the top 100 Sweatiest Cities in the U.S. and luckily we're not the most damp. Although if you stand around for a couple minutes outside today you'll be sweating like Raleigh ranks 32nd....I would imagine that includes the entire triangle region because the temperatures are similiar.
I wonder if this qualifies us for free deodorant from Old Spice?

TOP-100 SWEATIEST CITIES IN AMERICA
Brought to You By the Sweat Experts at Old Spice
1. Phoenix, AZ
2. Las Vegas, NV
3. Tucson, AZ
4. Dallas, TX
5. Corpus Christi, TX
6. San Antonio, TX
7. Austin, TX
8. Shreveport, LA
9. Houston, TX
10. Waco, TX
11. Miami, FL
12. New Orleans, LA
13. Orlando, FL
14. Tampa, FL
15. West Palm Beach, FL
16. Honolulu, HI
17. El Paso, TX
18. Memphis, TN
19. Fort Myers, FL
20. Baton Rouge, LA
21. Little Rock, AR
22. Mobile, AL
23. Jacksonville, FL
24. Tulsa, OK
25. Fresno, CA
26. Jackson, MS
27. Savannah, GA
28. Montgomery, AL
29. Nashville, TN
30. Columbia, SC
31. Oklahoma City, OK
32. Raleigh, NC
33. St Louis, MO
34. Birmingham, AL
35. Huntsville, AL
36. Richmond, VA
37. Louisville, KY
38. Chattanooga, TN
39. Washington DC
40. Wichita, KS
41. Omaha, NE
42. Norfolk, VA
43. Springfield, MO
44. Virginia Beach, VA
45. Atlanta, GA
46. Greensboro, NC
47. Charlotte, NC
48. Philadelphia, PA
49. Albuquerque, NM
50. Knoxville, TN
51. Columbus, OH
52. Kansas City, MO
53. Evansville, IN
54. Lexington, KY
55. Wilkes-Barre, PA
56. Cincinnati, OH
57. Harrisburg, PA
58. Baltimore, MD
59. Charleston, WV
60. Springfield, IL
61. Moline, IL
62. New York, NY
63. Roanoke, VA
64. Indianapolis, IN
65. Des Moines, IA
66. Bristol, TN
67. Salt Lake City, UT
68. Detroit, MI
69. Sacramento, CA
70. Chicago, IL
71. Dayton, OH
72. Toledo, OH
73. Cleveland, OH
74. Minneapolis, MN
75. Hartford, CT
76. South Bend, IN
77. Syracuse, NY
78. Providence, RI
79. Pittsburgh, PA
80. Albany, NY
81. Buffalo, NY
82. Asheville, NC
83. Grand Rapids, MI
84. Milwaukee, WI
85. Rochester, NY
86. Boston, MA
87. Denver, CO
88. Madison, WI
89. Flint, MI
90. Youngstown, OH
91. Burlington, VT
92. Los Angeles, CA
93. Green Bay, WI
94. San Diego, CA
95. Colorado Springs, CO
96. Portland, ME
97. Portland, OR
98. Spokane, WA
99. Seattle, WA
100. San Francisco, CA
###
Phoenix Named

What a summer!!!

2007-06-14T17:20:00.000-05:00

Wow, Have we got some great concerts coming to the Triangle or what?
This week I"m giving away tickets to see Merle Haggard/Willie Nelson and Ray Price...The Last of The Breed Tour coming to Carolina Crossroads on Friday August 24th. To purchase tickets go to: www.carolinacrossroads.com

Rascal Flatts just announced they'll be at Walnut Creek on Sunday August 19.
And of course Brad Paisley's coming.....Kenny Chesney has two shows in August. And Toby Keith is here next week. So many concerts.....I'm ready!!!

Listen to Vince Daniels in the mornings and TJ next week for more FREE concert tickets...which show(s) you'll find out next week!!!

Have a great Thursday!!!
Dallas

Get Your NC History Fix!!!

2007-05-30T14:13:00.000-05:00

Great new exhibit at the North Carolina Musuem of History....I'm taking my sons there to learn about the history of North Carolina and the wars that have taken place.......War ain't pretty and it's something nobody wants, but sometimes it happens. I thank God above when we come out ahead so we can maintain our freedom to live a life like we want in the greatest country in the world. Take the kids...it's a great summer day trip and best of all it's FREE!!! That's my kind of learning.......

Eleven wars in one exhibit gallery. For the first time, visitors to the North Carolina Museum of History in Raleigh will see artifacts from the American Revolution to the war in Iraq in one exhibit. On Tuesday, May 8, the museum will open A Call to Arms: North Carolina Military History Gallery, filled with weapons, uniforms, home front items, photographs and other objects from wars that have touched thousands of Tar Heel lives. This long-term exhibit is dedicated to North Carolinians who have answered “a call to arms.” Admission is free.
“This exhibit brings together facts and artifacts about North Carolina’s involvement in every important United States conflict,” says Ken Howard, Director, N.C. Museum of History. “Because of the significance of North Carolina’s military history,A Call to Arms will become a permanent gallery, but will feature changing exhibits about the state’s military history.”
Touch screens, videos and sound sticks will give visitors a chance to hear letters written by soldiers, test their Civil War knowledge, look at a sailor’s World War II scrapbook, and more. The exhibit is presented as part of “History Happens Here,” a yearlong celebration of North Carolina history, initiated by the Department of Cultural Resources.
“A Call to Arms is an opportunity for the museum to display military artifacts acquired both decades and literally weeks ago,” adds Curator of Military History Tom Belton. See selections from the newly acquired collection of items related to the military service of Mocksville native Col. Thomas W. Ferebee, bombardier of the B-29 bomber Enola Gay,which dropped the first atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Japan, on Aug. 6, 1945. On view are rare documents such as the 1944 orders transferring Ferebee to Utah for top-secret training with the 509th Composite Group (formed for training to drop the atomic bomb) and the 1945 bombing plan for Hiroshima.
A Call to Arms covers the American Revolution, War of 1812, Mexican-American War, Civil War, Spanish-American War, World Wars I and II, Korean War, Vietnam War, Gulf War, and the war in Iraq. A sampling of exhibit artifacts follows:
A cavalry saber found at the Revolutionary War site of the Battle of Guilford Courthouse.
The Civil War battle flag of the 26th Regiment N.C. Troops that was captured on Oct. 27, 1864, at Hatcher’s Run, Virginia.
A World War I gas mask with bag and accessories carried by Paul E. Brauer of Warren County. He served in the 81st Infantry Division.
A 302nd Fighter Squadron patch that belonged to Vernon Haywood, a Raleigh native who served as a Tuskegee Airman in the European theater during World War II.
An Army Nurse Corps uniform worn by World War II POW Evelyn Whitlow of Caswell County. Captured in the Philippines in 1942, she spent four years in a Japanese POW camp. Her family’s in-service banner with six stars, representing four sons and two daughters in the military, appears in the exhibit.
A crude Vietcong homemade single-shot pistol made of pipe that was used in the Vietnam War.
The exhibit’s concluding section commemorates the service and sacrifices of the soldiers of the 30th Heavy Separate Brigade of the N.C. National Guard during Operation Iraqi Freedom. During the brigade’s tour of duty in Iraq, Guard members secured items such as a gas mask from Saddam Hussein’s army and a bomb-making kit used by Iraqi insurgents to make improvised explosive devices.
On June 5, look for an addition to A Call to Arms: the traveling exhibit North Carolina in the American Revolution,organized by the Society of the Cincinnati in Washington, DC. The exhibit focuses on North Carolina’s contributions to the American Revolution and will run until June 1, 2008.
For more information about the museum, call (919) 807-7900 or access the website. Parking is available in the lot across Wilmington Street. Weekend parking is free.
The N.C. Museum of History’s hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m.to 5:00 p.m., and Sunday, Noon to 5:00 p.m. Admission is free. The museum is part of the Division of State

Crashing the Big Time NASCAR Party!

2007-05-29T14:03:00.000-05:00

Casey Mears, J.J. Yeley and Kyle Petty!!! WOW, is all I can say! David Poole from the Charlotte Observer said it best, The Coca-Cola 600 was kind of like a nice 75 degree day in December. Not expected, but it sure was nice!! First time the Petty name has been in a post race news conference since 1997. You could see the joy on Patty Petty's face when she hugged Kyle on FOX after the race!
And yes Hendrick wins again!! Mears has kinda been on the outside looking in all year at Hendrick while Jimmie Johnson and Jeff Gordon have been racking up wins!! This is great for him and his future at Hendrick. And what about Kyle Petty!! That my friends was simply amazing!!! Those boys hung in there and I'm so happy for the whole gang from Level Cross, NC!!!! Way to go!!!

Country Music Happenings!!

2007-05-23T17:16:00.000-05:00

Found out today from my Nashville buddies there's gonna be a great Christian inspirational album out this fall with a country slant. It'll feature Rascal Flatts, Charlie Daniels, Emerson Drive, Ricky Skaggs and more....
Here's the scoop..........................
Time Life is slated to release the 16-song disc in September. It'll be produced by Teddy Gentry of Alabama and Mike Curtis. The disc was recorded in Nashville and Muscle Shoals, Ala.
Charlie Daniels, Diamond Rio, Emerson Drive, Ricky Skaggs, Linda Davis, Rebecca Lynn Howard, Bryan White and Collin Raye are among the artists participating on the disc.
Curtis said the disc has been has been planned for seven years, but recording didn't start until March. "Sometimes it takes awhile for things to pass," Curtis said.
The only previously released tune on the disc will be the Rascal Flatts' song, "He Ain't the Leavin' Kind" from their last studio album. All other songs are newly recorded.
A live concert of the album is slated to be held at the Ryman in Nashville in September. Curtis said most of the people on the disc would participate.

More soon.....
Stay tuned for details on-air of some big stuff happening soon....

Memorial Day Coming Up!!!

2007-05-22T14:09:00.000-05:00

Well this week is a BIG one!!! First off, remember to join Vince Daniels on Thursday from 5pm-7pm at the Remington Grille at Cary Crossroads shopping center. Vince will draw for the Grand Prize Winner for the trip for two to Nashville for the CMA Music Festival June 7th-10th. For more details on that, and who you'll get to see if you win go to: www.cmafest.com
Remington Grille has a great menu. Plan to come out and have dinner with Vince on Thursday night and you just might be going to Nashville as well!!!
For a look at their menu go to: www.remingtongrill.com

American Idol Final is tonight. I won't be watching this one. I've given up on my once favorite show. Melinda Doolittle is far more talented than either Blake or Jordin. I like Jordin and Blake and the fact that they're younger probably played into things. Melinda is too shy and didn't have the charisma to pull a big hometown show. On the other hand, Blake is very marketable to a younger demo and will probably sell a lot of records whether he wins or not. Jordin is extremely talented but I think she needs more time to develop. She doesn't yet have a focus. I wouldn't know which genre to put her in.......she'll need to develop a specific style over the next two to five years and I'll think she'll do really well. Blake could give Maroon 5 a run for their money already.
But like last year the best singer will not win the competition. Just ain't right!

Lonestar on the tube this week.........and here's the skinny!

They'll be on the Hannity & Colmes show Thursday night May 24. Lonestar will perform the title track to their latest album Mountains, which was their latest radio hit since announcing Richie McDonald will be leaving the group at the end of 2007. Lonestar will also make an appearance and perform on an upcoming June episode of Emeril Live!

Now some news on my buddy Phil Vassar....

He's got a new Label, new Co-Producer, new Album and new single with something to say. And with "This is My Life," Vassar has topped himself, crafting a once-in-a-lifetime leadoff single that rocks the Country and tells it like it is. Let there be no mistake; this time out musically and lyrically the Virginia-born, piano-pounding singer/songwriter isn't pulling any punches.
"Gas prices are out of control, our schools aren't safe and there are no in-betweens any more," Vassar says. "It's really getting worse every day, and there are a lot of people out there that feel the way I do."
Clearly, this is not "Just Another Day in Paradise." Newly signed to Universal Records South, Vassar headed directly into the studio with a new energy and a new co-producer, label head Mark Wright (Brooks & Dunn, Gretchen Wilson), who adds an in-your-face sonic wallop to Vassar's piano-driven brand of Country.
Kicked off with his signature piano and a dramatic flurry of strings, "This is My Life," which Vassar co-wrote with Tom Douglas ("Little Rock," "Love is the Only House"), laments the current plight of the middle class including both Democrats and Republicans and hits hard with an unrelenting message of unity and determination before exploding into a sing-along chorus that has "hit" written all over it. Of course, having written chart-topping songs for himself and artists from Tim McGraw to Jo Dee Messina to Alan Jackson and beyond, Vassar is no stranger to hits.
"It's time to speak my mind!" Vassar shouts in "This is My Life," and judging from early radio reactions, he's right on the money.
"It's cool, an edgier production and a nice step out for Phil!" Beverlee Brannigan, Operations Manager, Journal Broadcast Group/Wichita "When I played it, many listeners called in and said, 'That's exactly how I feel!'" Tony Thomas, KMPS "We love this one!!" KYGO / Denver, CO, MD: Garret Doll "I dig this one! I think it is a very cool tune." WNCY, APPLETON, WI MD: Stix Franklin ‘‘’This is My Life' is really a song about all of our lives and what's going on this country," Vassar says. "Sometimes you feel you've just had enough and something's got to change."
That's what some fellow radio folks are saying about the tune. I dig it too and hope it does well for Phil!!!
Info on Memorial Day weekend happenings coming before the week is out!!
Join me on the radio weekdays from 3pm-7pm!!!

FREE Trace Adkins Tickets coming Wednesday!!! The ACMS Are Tonight Yipee!

2007-05-15T14:07:00.000-05:00

The Academy of Country Music Awards are country music's glitzy show from Vegas and the fun happens tonight at 8pm on WRAL TV 5 in the triangle. The show will be hosted by Reba McEntire and expect Faith Hill to sing a brand new song on the show. In case you miss the festivities, tune in all day tomorrow on 99.9 Genuine Country...and we'll have comments from the winners and more info on the big night.

Join me on Wednesday at high noon at Imagine This Gift Store on Falls of Neuse Road in Raleigh for a lunchtime freebie for you......Tickets to the Trace Adkins/SheDaisy/Povertyneck Hillbillies show June 2 at Carolina Crossroads in Roanoke Rapids...we'll hand out pairs of tix while they last. Limit one pair per family or person. Just our way of saying thanks for listening and an opportunity for you to check out a showcase venue in Roanoke Rapids. Here's a link to Imagine This for directions and info on this cool gift shop! www.imaginethisgifts.com

This Saturday night I'd love for you to come out to American Tobacco Historic District in Durham(right beside the DBAP) for the 2nd Annual Triangle Corporate Battle of The Bands. Our Capitol Broadcasting Band "Transmit This" will be the first band to go on.....the fun starts at 7pm. Admission is $25.00 but you will see more entertainment in one evening than an entire year of reality television. Last year was a hoot! Even better, the money is going for a very worthwhile cause. The Durham Communities in Schools program. This is a program designed to help Durham County Schools reduce their dropout rate so more students can get better educated and go on to live productive lives. There'll be food, beverages and of course a rockin' good time. We'd love to have you there. We need more groupies there to scream and cheer for the band and for the good cause!!! For details click on www.americantobaccohistoricdistrict.com and www.trianglebattle.com

Ticked!!

2007-05-08T13:55:00.000-05:00

Hope you're having a great Tuesday!!! Some interesting things going on in the world of country music this week. First up, we're giving away a trip to the CMA Music Festival in Nashville June 7-10, courtesy of our friends at Remington Grille. You can stop by any of the five triangle area Remington Grille's to sign up or listen to 99.9 Genuine Country for your chance to quailfy for this cool trip and a chance to meet all your favorite country stars and win a Sara Evans autographed guitar.

Now on to some news........I just knew this was gonna happen with that prankster Brad Paisley.....

The practical joke war has begun, and Brad Paisley's opening acts -- Jack Ingram, Taylor Swift and Kellie Pickler -- better watch their backs. It seems the trio ganged up to pull a fast one on Brad Friday during the performance of his current single, "Ticks," at a stop in Moline, Illinois this past weekend. Taylor (a-k-a "Taylor Tick") and Kellie ("Kellie Tickler") -- dressed in tick costumes -- entered from opposite sides of the stage and made their way directly toward Brad. A couple of minutes later, Jack ("The Exterminator") broke up the "attack," while wearing a "Jack's Pest Control" suit, to save Brad by exterminating both "ticks." One of Brad's band members was overheard saying, "Even Taylor's mama ain't safe now!"

Here's a link to the video of the show and I have to say I love the Red High Heels Kellie "Tick"ler is wearing.....http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L4JFul5Ff50

I love Brad!!!

Don't forget to listen to Vince Daniels this week in the mornings to win some cool Mother's Day gifts for your mom. The big day is coming up Sunday May 13th..

I'll have tickets to see Trace Adkins at Carolina Crossroads.....every afternoon this week. When you hear me play two Trace Adkins songs back-to-back be caller nine at 860-0999 and you'll win a family four pack of tickets for the show on June 2nd, which also features SheDaisy and The Poverty Neck Hillbillies.

The Academy of Country Music Awards is next Tuesday night in Las Vegas and you'll feel like you're there when the show is broadcast on WRAL TV 5 in the triangle. Showtime 8pm and the fun and frivolity will be hosted by Reba McEntire. Listen this week for special blurbs on the nominees here on 99.9 Genuine Country.

Mother's Day Is Sunday May 13

2007-05-03T17:05:00.000-05:00

Mother's Day is coming up Sunday May 13th.....
More than anyone else in the world, my mother influenced my life in ways I'll never be able to repay. My mom was a schoolteacher and she instilled in me a love of learning and a curiosity about the world around me. She encouraged me to soar high and I thank her for always believing in me.
The folks at Lifetime Television recently conducted a big survey about motherhood. The results are below:

In a poll of moms (by Lifetime Television), actor Denzel Washington was the guy most women want to tuck them in at night, besting Mario Lopez and Matthew Fox. Singer Tim McGraw out-paced Will Smith and Patrick Dempsey for the role of "Mr. Mom" to clean the house and help take care of the kids.The poll also revealed that:

An overwhelming number (77%) of moms feel raising a child is far more difficult than a generation ago.

27% of moms insist their mothers were horrible at giving advice.

Just 36% of moms wish they were more like their own moms.

Nearly as many, 31%, wished they were less like their mothers, citing neuroses, fashion sense and physique as the traits they are glad they didn't inherit.As for fave Mother's Day presents:

61% of respondents selected hugs and kisses, trailed by a handmade gift/card from a loved one
45% chose spa treatments
39% a romantic dinner

Happy Mother's Day to the hardest workin' folks in the world.
And to my wife Amy, I salute you. Your job is far more difficult than mine!!!

April Showers Bring May Johnsonville Brat Cookouts!!

2007-04-30T15:04:00.000-05:00

Of course in this case it's probably we need some May showers, because April sure didn't bring much rain. My new grass I planted a month ago is starting to wilt. But ya gotta love some warm weather. Of course I could wait till July for the 90 degrees we'll get a couple days this week.

I was teaching my kids about the pleasures of Johnsonville Brats this weekend...Logan is the one with the tongs....Tyler is the middle one and Katie is the blonde. Thanks to Johnsonville for making spring and summer cookouts sizzle!!!!

What's on for this week....
Well romantically linked friends Blake Shelton and Miranda Lambert both release new albums this week. Blake's is aptly titled "Pure BS" If ya know Blake or have ever met him after a show, then you'll know that title fits his wacky personality just perfectly. He's one funny guy!!! I love him!! We'll see which half sells more the first week out. I wonder if they've got a competition going with a dinner going to the one who sells the most the first week out of the shoot. Blake's new tune is fantastic. You can hear it on 99.9 Genuine Country. It's called "Don't Make Me"

If you haven't taken a picture of your roof yet and entered our "Ugliest Roof" competition, then do so. It's an easy way to get a new roof for "FREE" Complete details at our website. And it's all brought to you by the Roof Design Center in Raleigh. Their website is: www.roofdesigncenter.com

The Smithfield Ham and Yam festival is this weekend and Daryle Singletary and Jeff Carson are on the Red Hot and Country Tour. They'll take the main stage in downtown Smithfield on Saturday night May 5 at 8:30pm. It's a FREE show!
Listen for Vince Daniels in the morning this week to talk with Daryle.

And a couple things coming up in the not too distant future.......

Coming next week you'll have a chance every afternoon to win family four packs of tickets to see Trace Adkins at Carolina Crossroads. Listen between 3pm and 7pm for the Trace Adkins Dangerous Man Doubleplay. When you hear two tunes back to back from Trace Adkins be caller nine at 860-0999 locally or toll free 1-866-344-0999 to win on the NEW 99.9 Genuine Country. The winning starts on Monday May 7.

Don't forget Mother's Day coming up on Sunday May 13. That's only a couple weeks away and we'll honor the hardest workin' folks in the world.....Moms!!!

Listen Tuesday May 1, when I'll talk to Blake Shelton about the making of his new album. We'll play some of his new stuff for you as well.

Hitting the Road this weekend!!

2007-04-25T15:40:00.000-05:00

Hey, if you're out and about on Saturday I'd love to meet you. I'll be at Triangle Horse Sports off Old Wake Forest Road near the Oak Forest Drive intersection in Raleigh. I'm there from high noon 'till two pm. I'll have the Genuine Country Prize wheel with me and tons of goodies for ya!!
This is a great store with some awesome tack. If you ride horses, or wanna ride, then Triangle Horse Sports is the place to go for all your needs. They can custom fit your apparel for all your summer rides, thru the country, steeplechase, or cuttin' events. The owners Giles and Christine are very experienced riders and are there to help you. Come by and say hi and we'll see you on Saturday. And thanks for listening and supporting our advertisers.

Trace Adkins is Coming To Roanoke Rapids!

2007-04-23T14:27:00.000-05:00

Hope you had a great weekend!!! Sure was nice weather..
This week looks to be a fun one....Gonna be warm and wonderful
Hank Jr. comes to the RBC Center this Saturday on the Rowdy Friends Tour with Lynyrd Skynyrd and 38 Special.....

And just announced last week Trace Adkins is coming to Carolina Crossroads in Roanoke Rapids on June 2nd. Trace will be joined by SheDaisy and the Poverty Neck Hillbillies. And if you listen to Vince Daniels this week in the mornings between 6am and 10am for your chance to win a Family Four pack of tickets...

I'll be giving away tickets for the Trace Adkins show in just a couple of weeks...
Stay tuned...

This week I'll have passes for the Temples and Tombs: Treasures of Egypt....
It's at the North Carolina Museum of Art from now till July 8th. Really great educational exhibit for kids and adults alike. You'll get a a rare glimpse at over 3000 years of Egyptian History. I'm fascinated by history and plan to take my kids to this one. I'll have a chance to win this week!!!

Time for a cookout!!!

2007-04-18T16:47:00.000-05:00

Well it's almost the weekend and once again spring will be in bloom.(I think it disappeared for a little while with that cold snap the past week or so)
And at my house we're cooking up brats. I've been a fan of Johnsonville brats since about 2002 or so when I first started grilling them. I had eaten brats at festivals and fairs before but I truly found the best when I was turned on to Johnsonville Brats.
I've included one of my favorite Johnsonville receipes...

Reuben Brat
Wonderful spin on a sandwich favorite!
Submitted by: The Kitchen at Johnsonville Sausage
Ingredients
1 pkg. (19.76 oz.) Fresh Original Johnsonville Bratwurst5 dark rye hoagie rolls5 thin slices Swiss cheese1 tsp. butter1 lg. onion, sliced1 can (14 oz.) sauerkrautReuben Sauce (combine next 2 ingredients)1/3 cup Thousand Island dressing1/3 cup coarse ground mustard
Directions
Grill one package Johnsonville Fresh Original Bratwurst according to directions. Keep warm. In a pan with 1 teaspoon of butter Sauté sliced onions in a pan with 1 teaspoon of butter over medium low heat until they turn a light golden brown. Keep warm. Warm sauerkraut in a saucepan until heated through. Blend Thousand Island dressing and mustard together to make Reuben sauce.To make 1 sandwich, place two tablespoons of Reuben sauce on an open-face hoagie roll and add 1 slice of Swiss cheese, onions, 1 bratwurst. Top with sauerkraut and serve warm. Yield: 5 sandwiches.

Wind/Tragedy and Trace!!!

2007-04-16T14:22:00.000-05:00

Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill The New Windy Cities!!!!!
Wow!! The wind is incredible today. I almost got knocked over while trying to pump some gas out in Knightdale this morning. This wind is following all the wild weekend weather that's bringing a Nor'easter to the New England states. Luckily we got mostly heavy rains and wind. It's sure helping my grass I planted in the bare patches in the back yard. I saw sprouts shooting up this morning when I left the house. Funny how a little thing like grass growing in red clay can make a man happy!!

What's going on in the world?
I just heard about the shootings on the campus of Virginia Tech. At least 32 dead....this is so sad. If you've ever been to Blacksburg, Virginia, you'd know that it's the most idyillic place. Hard to imagine something so dark could happen in a place that's so beautiful. My prayers to the families and I pray this violence ends somewhere down the road. My one hope in life is to see a peace that passes all understanding for the human race. I know it's a seemingly impossible task but I believe we have the capacity to achieve great things!!!

Listen to Vince Daniels in the morning on 99.9 Genuine Country next week(April 23rd-28th) to win tickets to see Trace Adkins, SheDaisy and the Povertyneck Hillbillies at Carolina Crossroads on June 2nd. This is gonna be one awesome show!!! Have you been to Carolina Crossroads yet? This complex is an entertainment destination for eastern North Carolina. Last summer Gretchen Wilson, Big and Rich and Hank Jr. sold out.....Expect more incredible shows this summer. For details on tickets and directions(and answers to questions Vince Daniels will ask next week on Trace Adkins Dangerous Man Jeopardy click here: www.carolinacrossroads.com Kudos to Randy and Dolly Parton for giving Carolina Crossroads big name recognition and especially co-owners George Ragsdale and Michael Dunlow for having this incredible vision for Roanoke Rapids and the state of North Carolina!!!!! There's nothing like LIVE entertainment. Let's go have some fun!!!!

Pollen Pandimonium!!!

2007-04-04T06:17:00.000-05:00

Breathing has been a bit difficult for folks with allergies this spring in the triangle region of North Carolina. Now we know why. Levels of pollen are at an all time high. Of course records have only been kept for nine years, but this is the worst. The Allergy Foundation of America released their annual rankings of U.S. cities with the worst spring allergy problems and the southeastern U.S. is ground zero, if you will, for the entire problem. Raleigh/Durham/Chapel-Hill ranks as the 48th worst area in the country for allergies this spring. Tulsa, Oklahoma was number one.
It's mostly tree pollen that causes the problems. I'm taking Allegra and Flonase, which both seem to work really well. I only developed allergies recently and know why people don't like pollen. But it's a vital part of nature, but problematic for lots of triangle residents. I love the springtime though. New life is all around.
For the complete story and list of U.S. cities with the worst allergy problems this spring, click here: http://www.forbes.com/2007/04/02/allergies-health-pollen-forbeslife-cx_avd_0403allergy.html

The Carolina Hurricanes lost last night 3-2 to the Tampa Bay Lighting and thus knocked themselves out of playoff contention. This makes the Canes the first defending Stanley Cup champion since 1996 to not make the playoffs the following year. It was a tough year. Lots of injuries didn't help. But, they've still got two home games left. Friday night at 7pm against the Atlanta Thrashers and Saturday at 7pm against the Florida Panthers. I'll be there Saturday and hope you will as well. It's a great Easter weekend time and let's still show 'um we love 'um!!!

The Durham Bulls open their season on Thursday night at the DBAP and hopefully the weather will be nice. Gametime at 7pm against Syracuse. Get your tickets at the ballpark. The Bulls will be home on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday as well. America's game is back. Bring the kids. I'm ready for some hot dogs and baseball. Details at:http://www.dbulls.com

Coach G is leaving Duke to join the program at Texas. She's had a great career at Duke over the past 15 years. She compiled a 396 wins, 99 losses record. Amazing. Congrats to Coach G. Now that's two coaches Texas has grabbed from the triangle. First Mack Brown from North Carolina and now coach G. Texas knows we have the best folks in the world right here in North Carolina.

And finally, Capitol Records is looking for the next big country star. This is gonna be cool. $50,000 grand and a big time three song demo and possible record deal could be yours. If ya wanna enter then get to this website: http://bix.yahoo.com/contest/6902

Have a great day!! Thanks for listening!

Dallas

Sanjaya still singing!!!

2007-03-28T13:43:00.000-05:00

So have you been watching Amercian Idol this season?

I have never watched it all that closely until this year. I thought it was time I checked out this phenomenon. But I have to say, I cannot for the life of me, understand why Sanjaya is still in the competition. My pick for the win still goes to Melinda. Once again, last night she was incredible. She could sing the phone book and it would sound good. Lakisha is rockin' as well. And my pick for the best of the guys is Blake Lewis. I'm partial to Chris Harrison as well. He's just cool.

I found this article in the Charlotte paper that might help explain Sanjaya's mystique. He was parodied on Saturday Night Live this past weekend as well. He's sort of becoming a cult figure like William Hung was several years ago.

And the hairdo Sanjaya sported last night was kickin'. Gary Levox(from Rascal Flatts) would be proud!!!

Weak `Idol' wannabe gets online support
By MELANTHIA MITCHELL
Associated Press Writer

SEATTLE --Flowing hair and a precious smile have their rewards.
Especially if you're Sanjaya Malakar, who is considered one of the weakest performers on "American Idol" but has a fan base that has helped him survive multiple rounds of viewer elimination.
In the online community and in Malakar's home state of Washington, the croaking crooner seems to have a loyal following of friends, family and fanatics who would like nothing better than to see him achieve the ultimate "Idol" success and be the last singer standing in May.

Read the rest here: http://charlotte.com/200/story/65561.html

On the show today:

Details on Tour De Cure and how you can help fight diabetes in North Carolina.

Details on several big concerts coming to the triangle this summer.

The scoop on Toast To The Triangle, which happens this weekend(and that's

no April Fool)

Thanks for listening and email your thoughts, requests, suggestions, ideas, to me anytime: dreese@999genuinecountry.com

or call the request line at (919)860-0999.

Tim McGraw is gonna "Let It Go"

2007-03-27T16:01:00.000-05:00

Tim McGraw is turning 40 this year. When he started this incredible ride back in 1990, he was a 23 year old kid with a dream and a prayer. On his first radio tour around the country, Tim gave out baseballs to promote his first single "What Room Was The Holiday Inn". I think that was to play off the fact that his dad was the famous major league pitcher, Tug McGraw.
Tim looks back now and says it was a terrible song, but he's thankful people gave him a chance. Little did he know back then, he would end up a multi-millionaire, Grammy winner, married to one of country music's biggest female stars. Add to that, three beautiful daughters and enough money to live for 10 lifetimes. Tim has achieved what many people dream of when they stand in front of a mirror as a kid, playing air guitar and singing to themselves. He deserves it. He's one of the most humble, kindest people you'll ever meet.
His new album "Let It Go" is out in the stores today and it doesn't disappoint. I've listened to it twice already and my favorite tune is one of the two duets with wife Faith Hill. Shotgun Rider is gonna be a big hit(if it's released as a single) It reminds me of a Waylon Jennings, Jessie Colter duet circa 1976.
A song Old School country fans might recognize is Tim's cover of the Eddie Rabbit tune, "Suspicions" This one is a steamer!!!
"Let It Go" is chock full of some real country songs. There's one in particular I love. It's called "Not Worth Dying For" It's a great tune about the perils of drinking and driving. I wish the whole world could hear it and would take it to heart.
This CD sort of reminds me of "Everywhere" with its more traditional sound.
There are less of the rock style songs and more straight up country tunes.
Another favorite of mine is "Whiskey and You" This is a dog-gone good country tune. A great one for folks who've lost a love.
Tim's 11th CD is a good one and poised to be a big ole' smash!!!

Spring has Sprung!!!

2007-03-20T14:55:00.000-05:00

Some happenings this week:
Billy Ray Cyrus is on the fourth season of Dancing With The Stars and the judges said last night he looked like a crazy bear lost in a swamp. Billy got the lowest point total of all contestants, but did dance to his own song, "I Want My Mullet Back" and he got in a plug for his new album. How many other contestants can do that? I love Billy. Let's vote for him and keep him on the show. He'll dance again next Monday night at 8pm on ABC. Vote for Billy Ray, Okay!???
If he'd dance the Achy Breaky he'd win!!!!!

The weather is so nice today......doesn't this just give ya the spring fever?

Gossip website TMZ.com is reporting that American Idol contestant Haley Scarnato is wearing the same hair extensions previously worn by last season's runner-up Katharine McPhee. Now that's recycling!!! American Idol hair guru Dean Banowetz says he washed them up before using them on Haley. I would hope so!

I was reading the Sunday newspaper supplement, Parade magazine, and discovered what the most unwanted inventions of all time are.
Here's the survey from Parade readers.
1. High Heels
2.Jet Skis
3.Leaf Blowers(I personally love mine...could be a sign of creeping age or a desire for power over ants and dirt that I never had before)
4.Automated Telephone Assistance
5.Television
6.Video
7.Bass amplifiers( How would we hear the groove without these?)
8.Neckties
9.Car Alarms
10.Cell phones

Thankfully Radio wasn't on the list of most unwanted inventions. Mr. Marconi we love you!!!!

Tomorrow is the first full day of Spring!!! Yippee!! If you're like me, your house could use some de-cluttering.
The following tips might not actually help but I thought I'd at least give it the college try.

Be serious about getting rid of clutter. Or don't be serious at all. You'll reap the benefits of being in the dog house 24/7. I've learned by watching Survivorman on Discovery Channel that you can survive anything, if you believe. Even a grilling by Simon Cowell!!

Remember to throw out the papers when ya read them. Or else some other person in the house who is absolutely tired of you cluttering up the bathroom with the News and Observers from two weeks ago that you still haven't read, will get rid of them for you. Remember, recycle everything, you may not get a second chance to remarry.

Set a day to start. Don't put it off, just because a good movie you had no intention of ever seeing comes on the Lifetime Network, because before you know it, two or three hours have passed, then a figure of major authority in the household is saying you better go to bed now, because you've got a honey do-list bigger than the RBC Center just waiting on ya when you wake up.

Be reasonable with yourself about what you can accomplish!! Give yourself a set amount of time to accomplish it. Usually it's 10-12 hours per box of stuff, depending upon what books or mementos you find in the box that sidetrack you enough to waste a whole day! Remember to try and get something done. See the note about you may not get a second chance to remarry. You're not as young as you used to be.

A big room might be too overwhelming, so start with something small like a drawer. Take it easy, remember to stop for snack breaks, bathroom breaks, or to listen to Vince Daniels in the morning on 99.9 Genuine Country, or check Mike Maze's amazing forecast on www.wral.com, or find other distractions that prevent clutter clean-up from actually happening. Don't hesitiate to stop and watch Curious George with your kids. That monkey and your kids are more important than all those pens, pencils and Wal-mart receipts stuffed in that sock drawer. Quality time with the kids may sidetrack you, but hey, clutter has its price.

Give the illusion that you've done something. Move stuff around from one room to another, so it looks like you cleaned something up. Doug Henning and David Copperfield can help you with this one. Or call me, I've got experience with this amazing feat.

Finally, make a to do list. Even if ya don't get anything de-cluttered or cleaned up, you'll feel like you at least did something.

Or keep the to-do list in your head and dream nightly about what the house will look like when you eventually get around to de-cluttering. Sometimes this becomes a nightmare and you'll wake up in cold sweats. But, like I said, clutter sometimes has its price. A sweaty brow and nightshirt can easily be cleaned. A house on the other hand, is a different matter.

And remember if you don't clean up your clutter, you could end up in Central Prison, because clutter is a felony offense in some households. I'm figuring that's most houses in my neighborhood, because every time I walk by their windows their homes are immaculate. Don't break the law. Clean the house now. Remember, you may not get a second chance to remarry.

I leave you today with some wisdom from Miami Herald columnist Dave Barry.

Things that took over 50 years to learn-

Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a laxative on the same night.

You should not confuse your career with your life.

The most destructive force in the universe is gossip.

You will never find anybody who can give you a clear and compelling reason why we observe Daylight Savings Time

There comes a time when you should stop expecting people to make a big deal about your birthday. That time is age eleven.

The one thing that unites all human beings, regardless of age, gender, religion, economic status or ethnic background, is that, deep down inside, we ALL believe that we are above average drivers.

Never lick a steak knife

There is a very fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness"

Here's to spring!!! Nothing could be finer than to be in Carolina!

St. Patricks Day Fun!

2007-03-15T14:46:00.000-05:00

Now some St. Patrick's Day Fun:
St. Patrick's Day is Saturday March 17. My family always does something special because I have many Irish ancestors. My wife's family came to the U.S. much later than mine and they love eating Irish food. In fact my wife's Great-great grandfather William Phillips came to the USA in the 1800's when the potato famine was really bad in Ireland. He had been a newspaper reporter in Belfast and wanted a better life for his family. They settled in Connecticut where my wife's great-grandfather and grandfather were born and raised. Then the family moved to Worcester(near Boston) where there's still a very large contingent of Irish folks.
My Irish ancestors are on my mother and father's side. They came to the U.S. much earlier and all came to the south. Some came in the early 1700's to Virginia and South Carolina. Others in the mid to late 1700's to North and South Carolina. Some came from County Antrim and others from County Donegal.
To keep some of those Irish traditions alive, my family always tries to make some foods we don't normally eat so we can celebrate. Or course Irish people probably had very plain menus with potatoes being a staple. To liven it up we add our own twist and make desserts and cool sides with our corned beef and cabbage.
Of course the holiday started as a feast celebrating the patron saint of Ireland, St. Patrick, who lived between 386 A.D. and 493 A.D. And any feast is a friend of mine. I mean who doesn't like celebrating with food?
The day is a national holiday in Ireland and the whole country is off work that day. Here in the U.S. the holiday wasn't celebrated publicly until 1737 and the first celebration was held in Boston, Massachusetts, which has been the epicenter of the Irish immigration into the U.S.

Here's a great corned beef and cabbage recipe!!
One 3 pound corned beef brisket uncooked in brine
16 cups cold water
2 bay leaves
2 teaspoons black peppercorns
4 whole allspice berries
2 whole cloves
1/2 head large green cabbage(about 2 pounds, cut into 8 thick wedges)
8 small new potatoes(about 1 and 1/4 pounds), halved
Freshly ground black pepper
Serving suggestion: Whole-grain maple bread goes good with this as does horseradish sauce. My kids like the kind with mayo in it. I prefer the real straight horseradish, it's spicier.
Preheat oven to 300 degrees
Place corned beef in a colander in the sink and rinse well under cold running water
Placed corned beef in a large Dutch oven with a tight fitting lid(or similar metal pot with tight lid): add the water, bay leaves, peppercorns, allspice and cloves.
Bring to a boil uncovered and skim off any unwanted film that rises to surface.
Cover and transfer pan to oven and braise until very tender, about 3 hours and 45 minutes.

Transfer the corned beef to a cutting board and cover tightly with foil to keep warm. Add the cabbage and potatoes to the cooking liquid and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes.

Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cabbage to a large platter. Slice the corned beef across the grain of the meat into thin slices. Lay the slices over the cabbage and add potatoes. Ladle hot cooking liquid over the corned beef and season with pepper. Serve with horseradish sauce or hot mustard.
I love this dish!!!!
Here's a great side dish from Ladies Home Journal:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Parsnips
Ingredients
9 medium baking potatoes (3 pounds), such as russet
1-1/2 pounds parsnips
1 bulb garlic, unpeeled
2 teaspoons olive oil
3/4 cup milk
1/2 cup butter (no substitutes)
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper

Directions
1. Peel potatoes and parsnips; cut into 1/2-inch chunks. Cook in a Dutch oven or large saucepan in boiling salted water until tender, about 25 to 30 minutes. Drain.
2. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Cut about 1/2 inch off tip of garlic head, and discard. Place garlic in a custard cup. Drizzle with olive oil. Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until tender when pierced with the tip of a sharp knife. Let cool. Squeeze garlic pulp out of peels. Mash with a fork, and set aside.
3. Press the potatoes and parsnips through a potato ricer or food mill (or mash with a potato masher), and return them to the Dutch oven.
4. Heat milk and butter in a small saucepan just until boiling. Stir into the potato mixture. Stir in mashed garlic, the 3/4 teaspoon salt, and the 1/8 teaspoon pepper. Heat through. Season to taste with additional salt and pepper. Serve immediately. Makes 14 servings.

And it wouldn't be St. Patrick's Day without a great Irish dessert.

Chocolate-Irish Cream Cheesecake
Makes 12 to 18 servings
Prep: 45 minutes Bake: 50 minutes
Ingredients
1 cup chocolate wafer crumbs (about 18 cookies)*
1/4 cup butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened
1 8-ounce carton dairy sour cream
1 cup sugar
1 8-ounce package semisweet chocolate, melted and cooled
3 eggs
1/3 to 1/2 cup Irish cream liqueur
2 tablespoons whipping cream or milk
2 teaspoons vanilla
Fresh raspberries (optional)
1/3 cup semisweet chocolate pieces, melted (optional)

Directions
1. For crust, in a medium mixing bowl combine crumbs, butter, and cinnamon; toss gently to mix. Spread mixture evenly in the bottom of a 9- or 10-inch* springform pan; press onto bottom for a firm, even crust. Set pan aside.
2. For filling, in a large mixing bowl combine cream cheese, sour cream, sugar, and the 8 ounces melted chocolate; beat with an electric mixer on medium to high speed until combined. Add eggs all at once. Beat on low speed just until combined. Do not overbeat. Stir in liqueur, whipping cream or milk, and vanilla.
3. Place pan on a baking sheet. Pour filling into crust. Bake in a 325 degree F oven for 50 to 60 minutes or until center appears nearly set when gently shaken. Cool in pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes. Loosen sides; cool 30 minutes more. Remove sides; cool completely. Cover and chill cheesecake for 4 hours or overnight.
4. Before serving, transfer the cheesecake to a platter. Top with fresh raspberries and drizzle with 1/3 cup melted chocolate, if desired. Makes 12 to 16 servings.
*Note: If using the 10-inch springform pan, add another 1/4 cup chocolate wafer crumbs to the crust.

American Idol, Paula Abdul and St. Patty's Too!

2007-03-14T14:58:00.000-05:00

Well after watching the 12 finalists last night on the biggest show in America, I'm completely convinced that the next American Idol is Melinda Doolittle or Lakisha Jones. These two just hover miles above the other contestants. Finally Simon agreed with me and said so on the show. In fact, Associated Press reporter Verne Gay said yesterday, "What happens if neither Lakisha or Melinda win American Idol? Then the whole Idol competition will become a travesty......."Here you have two fantastic front-runners and everyone else. Paula, he says, "knows it. Randy knows it. Simon certainly knows it. Everyone else knows it. And you know it. Which means we may as well declare the sixth season over and done with right now. Except that there are 11 more weeks to go and anything could happen."
Well stated. And I agree.

If you're not into March Madness basketball this Friday night then grab the remote from your husband or wife and switch over to QVC. Paula Abdul will be on at 6am and 10pm. She'll present new styles from the Paula Abdul Jewelry collection. The pieces range in price from $20 bucks up to $90 bucks. Items up for grabs include, charms, pendants, earrings, bracelets and Simon Cowell's used Coca-Cola cup(okay so I made that last one up)
After the 10pm show ends, you'll be able to ask Paula questions during an online chat at QVC.com
I wanna call in and sing to her....."Straight up now tell me if Melinda's gonna win or are we just caught up in a hit and run!!"
For those of you not old enough to remember, I appropiated some of the previous lyrics from Paula's big time 80's dance hit, "Straight Up, " An awesome tune with the windows rolled down on an I-85 cruise circa 1989. Gosh I'm old!!!
Have a great St. Patrick's weekend!! I'm going to Harris Teeter to get some corned beef and cabbage.
Don't forget the Raleigh St. Patty's Day parade.....it's Saturday March 17 at high noon. It starts at the corner of Cabarrus and Wilmington streets downtown. TV 5's Debra Morgan is the Grand Marshall.
Here's wishing ye the luck 'o the Irish!!!

American Idol March Madness Part Two

2007-03-12T14:46:00.000-05:00

Well once again I was impressed by how good the girls on American Idol have been this season. Every week they continue to raise the bar for the men. I personally think a diva is gonna win this year's competition. No offense to the guys, but the girls are just in a different league this year.
I was surprised with the results show last Thursday when Sabrina Sloan was booted. I really thought she deserved a place in the top 12. Randy Jackson agreed with me.
I really think the show is gonna come down to Melinda Doolittle and Lakisha Jones. These two are so far ahead of everybody else it's unbelievable.
Lakisha is a powerhouse vocalist. Awesome control of her voice as well.
Melinda has the skills to be versatile. She's so humble as well!
Chris Sligh is my favorite guy and I believe he's got the goods to have a career, plus he's from Greenville, SC so he's a homeboy.
I think the final will come down to Chris Sligh and Melinda Doolittle.
Melinda is my pick for winning it all. Even if she doesn't, she'll end up on Broadway or with some kind of big time record deal.
I belive Blake Lewis will be picked up by a label as well. He's got serious skills and major appeal to younger demographics. Record companies will see the $$$signs he would bring to the table.
Best of luck.
The action cranks up for the Top 12 finalists Tuesday night at 8pm on FOX 50 in the Triangle.

American Idol March Madness!!

2007-03-07T13:20:00.000-05:00

Wow, Kellie Pickler was, uh, ......you know what I mean....when she appeared on American Idol last week. Did you catch Ryan Seacrest when he asked her what she's spent her money on?
I think we can tell can't we? I love her voice and her personality is so bubbly. And she's from Albemarle, which makes it all the more cool. We've got Bucky Covington from Rockingham, Kellie from Albemarle, Clay Aiken from Raleigh, Reuben from Birmingham, Alabama, Taylor from Alabama, Fantasia from High Point, NC. Have you ever noticed that a bunch of the best singers on American Idol are from the South? And a boatload from right here in Carolina. Must be the grits and sweet tea we love! Helps build strong vocal chords!!!!

Still to come this season..... Martina McBride will coach the contestants in Los Angeles next week. Then Martina will return to the show on April 18th to sing the incredibly uplifting new tune "Anyway." Martina wrote the song(her first stab at writing) with the Warren Brothers(who have written quite a few great tunes for Tim McGraw and Faith Hill) and Martina's new album "Waking Up Laughing" will be out in the stores on April 3rd.

Carrie Underwood will also appear on Idol again....she'll sing her new tune about the perils of alcohol. It's called "Wasted" You can hear Wasted from Carrie and Anyway from Martina on 99.9 Genuine Country now!!!

Now on to my opinion of the guys from last night. I wasn't as impressed as last week. I think I've narrowed down my list of who should be in the finals!! Here we go:

Chris Sligh
Blake Lewis
Chris Harrison
Brandon Rogers

These four are the only ones who consistently sing on pitch. They are all worthy winners and have the talent and ability to have a career in music. Blake's vocal acrobatics are amazing. He'll get a record deal whether he wins or not. I'm not a huge fan of the music he does, but his talent is amazing!!
My favorite of the guys is Chris Sligh. He sang a tune from a Christian band last night. Nobody knew the song but his voice is so powerful, he sold it to me. His humor and his strong voice win me over.

I liked Chris Harrison's version of Keith Urban's "Tonight I Wanna Cry" Chris sort of gave the song that Brian McKnight treatment. A definite R&B kind of flavor. Very original.
Brandon has great vocal ability. He justs needs to step up the charisma. He's got the goods though. Reminds me of a young Lenny Kravitz.

No real country singers from the group of guys though. I was hoping for one this year.
Tommorrow we'll see if the girls step it up. Something tells me they are gonna be on again tonight. I've been thouroughly impressed so far with many of the female singers.
Git R Done!!!
Who's going home on Thursday? I think Jared and Sanjaya. What do you think?

March Madness is Here!!

2007-03-04T21:56:00.000-05:00

No matter where you are in North Carolina the next few weeks you're bound to get caught up in March Madness. Tournament basketball is upon us and in these parts, worker productivity goes down and office, home and car radios and TV's are tuned to hear and see all the action!!!
After an incredible women's ACC basketball tournament this past weekend in Greensboro(congrats to North Carolina and NC State on making the final) we now turn our attention to the men's tournament.
Here's the rundown if you're setting your DVR or Tivo or if you just want to see when you'll need to sneak out of the office to a TV set.

ACC Tournament Pairings
THURSDAY
#8 Clemson vs. #9 Florida State, Noon (WRAL -TV 5)
#5 Maryland vs. #12 Miami, 2 p.m. (WRAL-TV 5)
#7 Duke vs. #10 N.C. State, 7 p.m. (ESPN2)
#6 Georgia Tech vs. #11 Wake Forest, 9 p.m. (Ch. 5) FRIDAY
#1 North Carolina vs. Clemson-Florida St. winner, Noon (Ch.5)
#4 Boston College vs. Maryland-Miami winner, 2 (Ch.5)
#2 Virginia vs. Duke-N.C. State winner, 7 (Ch. 5)
#3 Virginia Tech vs. Georgia Tech-Wake Forest winner, 9 (Ch.5)
SATURDAY
N. Carolina-Clemson-Florida St. winner vs. Boston College-Maryland-Miami winner, 1:30 (Ch.5)
Virginia-Duke-N.C. State winner vs. Virginia Tech-Georgia Tech-Wake Forest winner, 3:30 (Ch.5)
SUNDAY
Semifinal winners, 1 (Ch.5)

THOUGHTS ON THIS PAST WEEKEND'S ACTION
Coach Sylvia Hatchell's Lady Tarheels won a hard fought battle Sunday over Kay Yow's inspired NC State team. I think the Wolfpack ladies were just exhausted physically and mentally from their win over number one ranked Duke on Saturday. Tournaments are always tough because you have to play so many games in a short time frame. Hats off to the Wolfpack....they had won nine games straight going into the ACC women's championship game on Sunday. The Lady Wolfpack will most certainly get an NCAA tournament bid, if for no other reason than the incredible win over Coach G's number one ranked and undefeated Duke women. NCAA tourney bids as well to the number one ranked Tarheels, the Duke girls and Maryland. The women's NCAA tournament will have a strong ACC flavor.
As will the men's NCAA tourney, I think Georgia Tech is a lock to get into the Big Dance now, no matter how they do in the ACC tourney this week. I think Boston College will need at least a victory in the tourney. And, if the NC State men beat Duke in the first round on Thursday I believe they'll get a decent seeding, but probably in the Midwest or West Regional. The Duke team will play without superstar Gerald Henderson after the combative foul on UNC's Tyler Hansbrough on Sunday. Personally I don't think Henderson meant to foul him. I though he was going for the ball. Sure looked like it on the replay on my DVR. But Henderson is suspended for one game and that's the NC State first rounder on Thursday.
Watch out for Clemson and Georgia Tech. They could shock some folks in the tournament this week. I really think Virginia can win it all if they put together all the aspects of their game for three days in a row. In fact I think the final will feature Virginia and Maryland. I'd love for NC State to go all the way, but Coach Sidney Lowe's team doesn't have the depth to keep the energy level there for four days. It's a tough mental and physical adjustment to make and the Pack needs more depth to take it all the way. I love 'um though!! I'm not impressed with Duke or North Carolina like I have been in seasons past. But either team is capable of winning it all. At the beginning of the season when I saw Carolina beat Ohio State I thought they were unstoppable. I mean I thought I was witnessing one of the greatest teams ever. Now I'm not so sure. Here's hoping their intensity level remains like it was on Sunday during the final regular season game against Duke. Now that's the team I remember from earlier in the season.
I'm really worried that once the NCAA tourney rolls around we won't have a single ACC team in the Sweet Sixteen, much less the Elite Eight or Final Four. It's been an off year for the perenial powers on Tobacco Road. Here's hoping there's some redemption as the Ides of March are upon us. Good luck to all and let's have some close games!!

And there you have it. A fun filled week is upon us. Enjoy ACC fans!!!

I'm Up and Around after a Week on the Ground!!!!

2007-02-22T17:07:00.000-05:00

Well I'm up and around somewhat now, after having surgery last Thursday February 15. I'm finally able to gather up enough steam to be able to write a few posts. For those of you interested, I had what's called an anterior cervical fusion. Basically three discs in my neck were degenerative(combination of years of skiing, mountain biking and lifting heavy speakers at music gigs) and Raleigh neurosurgeon Dennis Bullard had to take the degenerative discs out and put in three bone grafts, along with bone marrow and stem cells from my own hip. After inserting the bone grafts he secured it all with a titanium plate and some screws in my vertabrae. Sounds attractive doesn't it? I mean I never knew as much about the spine as I've learned over the past month with this ordeal. I woke up early in January with numbing pain down my neck and right arm(sort of felt like a stroke) and I thought I must have pulled something. After getting X-rays and an MRI the docs at Carolina Back discovered my spine was in serious trouble. So I consulted with quite a few folks, went to Raleigh Orthopedic and then finally to Triangle Neurosurgery. Needless to say the surgery went well. I can't drive for six weeks while it all heals, but it feels great to have the nerves working again in my right arm. For the record, this was the first time in my 42 years I've ever had any surgery(besides my tonsils and wisdom teeth) I guess I've been lucky, because I never knew how real pain felt. I can safely say I have seen that road and don't wanna go back. From here on out I'll eat more fruits and vegetables, drink tons of water and exercise like crazy.

In order for your spine to stay healthy you need to do all of the above. If you have any pain whatsoever, don't hestitate to see a doctor. It could save your back and your life.

For more details and some good resources online go to www.espine.com, www.spineuniverse.com, www.spine-health.com All of these websites are great resources if you're having back problems. Remember exercise is the best medicine to keeping your back healthy and strong!!! I'm gonna go full tilt once I'm up and running at full speed ahead. Drinking lots of water helps keep your discs hydrated as well.

I'm hoping to get back on the radio within the next week or two. My surgery involved going thru the front of my neck and moving my vocal cords as well as my esophagus so I'm still pretty sore, but my voice is getting stronger every day!!! Pretty soon I'll be as good as new..

Talk to ya soon!

Dallas

Valentines Day is Wednesday and The Kids Need You!!!

2007-02-13T13:46:00.001-05:00

Valentine's Day is a time to share with those you love, and in that spirit we are broadcasting LIVE all day at Duke Children's Hospital in Durham, North Carolina. We've love for you to listen and donate what you can from the heart.
I toured the hospital today and can tell you from the heart that our dollars are used for a special purpose. I believe God put us all here for a reason. Sometimes it's hard to see what we as individuals can do to help others but in this case I can say that every dollar you give to Duke Children's Hospital will help out kids across North Carolina(and around the world) Most of their patients are from right here in North Carolina and Virginia. Whether it's a premature baby, cancer, bone marrow transplant, heart trouble or casatrophic illness, Duke can help. I myself saw a seven month old baby hooked up to a machine that costs thousands of dollars. Yet this machine was repumping the baby's blood out of and back into its body completely re-oxygenated, so the baby can live. That takes money. Money won't solve all problems but in this case it helps fund these machines, research and possible cures, not only for kids but for adults as well. Because really when it comes down to it, we're all human. We live, we love, we die. But in that time in between the dashes on your grave you can make a difference by donating. Because the life you save today, might be your own one day. Or your children's lives. I am proud of the state I live in and its people. We are caring, giving and resisiliant and always reach out to help our fellow man. On Valentine's Day make that call 919-684-1015 or toll free 1-866-684-1015. Or donate online at our website: www.999genuinecountry.com
Give what you can, give from the heart....
God will bless you!!
Dallas

Sizing up the Grammies

2007-02-08T14:16:00.000-05:00

The 49th Annual Grammy awards are coming up this Sunday night and to many musicians around the world these are the penutlimate awards because they are voted on exclusively by industry folks. Writers, performers, producers etc.....
The acceptance by professional peers is often the highest form of flattery and that's why so many performers covet the Grammy Award.
With that being said, these awards often don't reflect the realities of the marketplace. Because what's popular with the public isn't neccesarily gonna resonant with performers.
That's why, once again some folks who deserve to win won't, and some who don't really merit the award will win. Make sense?
For instance, can you believe George Strait, the undisputed heavyweight king of country music with 53 number one hits, has NEVER won a Grammy. That just doesn't seem real. I couldn't believe that when I found out.
George is up for Best Male Country Vocal Performance and I for one hope he wins this year. He is most deserving.
Bon Jovi has never won a Grammy either and this year could be Jon's first and it's in the country category with Jennifer Nettles of Sugarland. "Who Says You Can't Go Home" was a HUGE hit and had tons of crossover appeal. I for one love the song and many folks who love country music are fans of Bon Jovi as well. His songs are true grit and heartland all the way.(even though he's from New Jersey)
The Wreckers are up for best vocal duo performance but somehow I get the feeling industry people will vote for the Dixie Chicks in this category.
South Carolina native Josh Turner is also up for a Grammy. What a year it's been for him. Great new album, new baby with his wife and now a Grammy nomination. Josh is the real thing.
Carrie Underwood is a double nominee and a performer on the show as well. She's one of the biggest runaway successes ever!!! If Carrie wins the all-genre "Best New Artist" award Sunday night, it'll be the first time a country act has done that 1996. The winner back then.....teenager LeAnn Rimes.
Carrie will perform with Rascal Flatts with an introduction by Reba McEntire. Carrie is a true American Idol.
And Garth Brooks and wife Trisha Yearwood are up for a Grammy as well for best country collaboration. If they win it would be their first win as husband and wife. Now that's romantic!!!
Hats off to Little Big Town who are up for two Grammies and are my pick for best new country group of the past year.(even though they've been around quite a few years....this was their first big breakthru year)
Now my picks and pans............

Best Country Female vocalist....... Winner will be Carrie Underwood. My pick....Carrie Underwood

Best Male Country Vocal.....Winner will be Keith Urban.... My pick...George Strait

Best Country performance by a duo or group.... Winner will be the Dixie Chicks My pick is Little Big Town

Best Country Collaboration with Vocals
Winner will be Bon Jovi with Jennifer Nettles....my pick Bon Jovi with Jennifer Nettles

Best Country Instrumental
Winner will be Whiskey before Breakfast Doc Watson with Bryan Sutton My pick..Doc Watson and Brian Sutton

Best Country Song Winner will be Like Red On A Rose Alan Jackson my pick....Jesus Take The Wheel Carrie Underwood

Best Country Album Winner will be the Dixie Chicks, Taking The Long Way... my pick is The Road To Here, Little Big Town

And finally Carrie Underwood will win the Best New Artist in all genres of music.
Let's see how it goes!!!!
Here's to country music!!!

Bucky Covington Is Everywhere!!!!

2007-02-07T15:05:00.000-05:00

Rockingham, North Carolina native Bucky Covington recently signed a record deal with Lyric Street Records(the home to Rascal Flatts, Trent Tomlinson, Sarah Buxton, Josh Gracin, SheDaisy and more) With some help from Sawyer Brown frontman Mark Miller, Bucky is now on his way to superstardom. Mark's son was a Bucky fan during the fifth season of American Idol.
It seems Miller's son Gunner was walking around the Miller household saying, "Bucky this and Bucky that" . Intrigued, Mark tuned into the show and after Bucky was voted off, Miller put in a call to Bucky. The rest as they say is history. With Miller's connections, Bucky was soon on the tantilizing treadmill to Superstardom.
I think Bucky is perfect for country music right now. He's down home, nice as can be, very honest, and is as real as anybody will ever get. Humble is a great description as well.
His debut album is slated to come out about April 17th. The first single is called "Different World" It's a great tune for those of us who grew up with only three channels on the TV and no cell phones.
Check out the poll Country Weekly magazine did the week after season
five of American Idol wrapped up:
89 percent said I'm buying Bucky.
10 percent said I'm picking Pickler
1 percent said I'm all Idoled out

And here's just a sampling of where you'll see, hear and find Bucky Covington in the coming months:
Feb 9 TV Guide Channel "Idol Chat" Feb 12 Country Weekly Who’s New Feb 26 Country Weekly 1pg single story Feb CMT Insider March 9 Grand Ole Opry (not televised) Mar/Apr CMA Close Up new artist profile Mar/Apr CMA Close Up story on country stars who got their start on talent competitions Mar/Apr ACM Tempo new artist profile April 7 GAC Grand Ole Opry April 17 GAC On The Streets April 23 Fox Nashville Tennessee Mornings April 30 CBS Nashville Talk of the Town April GAC Nights April CNN Entertainment April CNN Larry King Live April EXTRA April Country Weekly feature story April American Idol Magazine feature
Whew!!! That my friends is one busy schedule. Here's to another Carolina boy making everybody proud. The future's so bright he's gotta wear shades!!!
Go Bucky!!!

Snows Coming and I'm getting Bread and Milk!!

2007-01-31T15:19:00.000-05:00

Many of my good friends from New Jersey, New York and places north are always enthralled with how excited we southerners get at the mere mention of snow. Me, I'm no different. I'm as excited as a kid in a candy store anytime snow is mentioned in the forecast. Now tomorrow doesn't look like it's gonna be a big event for the triangle(unless you're west of Raleigh) but the excitement level at my house is beyond belief. My sons are seven and five and they'll have the sleds ready before they go to bed tonight. My three year old daughter will run to the window the second she wakes up tomorrow and look for the snow. If it's not here, sadness all around. But if it does snow, I can be assured that we'll have to bundle everybody up for the trip outside. Reminds me of my childhood days in Concord, NC. We often didn't get snow when Winston-Salem and cities north and west did. But, when we did get snow the whole neighborhood would head to the hills of Rollingwood Forest off Hwy 73 to hit the sleds and use our makeshift skis(made out of race tracks or slicked up plastic...yeah we were poor)
In my adult life I've made the trek to Whiteside Mountain near Cashiers, NC on winter days and marveled at the beauty of a new fallen snow. From the summit of Whiteside a new fallen snow is one of the most beautiful sights I think we'll ever see on this earth.
My wife and her family are from Worcester, Massachusetts and had enough snow to last three lifetimes when they lived up there. So I can understand why they came south. But, the thing about snow in the south is it's here for a little while and then gone. Sort of like our lives. We must make the most of every flake we get.
Enjoy every minute!!!

Jason Michael Carroll Stays True!

2007-01-30T16:33:00.000-05:00

Youngsville native Jason Michael Carroll continues to see his star rise in the world of country music, with his debut album set to come out in stores in one week, his tune "Alyssa Lies" continues to climb into the Top Ten of the national country charts. But the tune might have taken a different turn had Jason not listened to his own heart.
It seems some folks in Nashville thought the tune was too dark and wanted him to rewrite it. Jason stuck to his own intuition and didn't change the song and now he's glad he did what he did.
Here's what Jason had to say,
They did. A couple people came to me and said, 'We want you to get with this writer, or that writer, and just try to fix it a littlebit.' And, it was exactly as it is today what everybody is listening to onthe radio." Jason Michael says he figures the reason for their concern was that the song was dark, without a happy ending. "So, finally I agreed to do it with one writer that I respected and I remember going into that session and five minutes before were to set down and start writing I said, 'Man I can't do this. This song is very important to me and it is what it is for a reason, I can't explain why but I don't think we need to touch it. I told him where I was coming from when I wrote it and he said, 'You know, I think you're right, we should just leave it alone."
Labels: Jason Michael Carroll
Here's to Jason sticking to his own heart. Sometimes ya gotta go with your gut and Jason is as real as it gets. Plus he's got four kids. I can relate to that. I've got four of my own and know the responsibilities he's got.
Go for it Jason. Keep on keepin' on....and here's too many successes for a straight up fantastic triangle native.

Add some romance to your February

2007-01-24T16:02:00.000-05:00

Alright Vince Gill fans, here's the perfect gift for your Valentine. The prize is a a dozen red roses that come with a Valentine's Day Card signed by Vince. And the proceeds will be used to help support the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Bids will be taken until 2pm on January 30th.
The auction happens here:
http://cgi.ebay.com/Valentines-Day-Flowers-Personal-Note-from-VINCE-GILL_W0QQitemZ110081701268QQihZ001QQcategoryZ16087QQcmdZViewItem
Best of luck and be good to your sweetie. Order your presents now to prevent the big markup in prices that inevitably happens the week before Valentines.
Here's to Love!!!!

Keith Urban is First class!!!

2007-01-22T17:36:00.000-05:00

Keith Urban made an announcement today on his website about his recent stint in rehab. You can watch the video at www.keithurban.net
Showing off all the warts of being a real human is one of the things I love about Keith. He's not afraid to talk about his problems, demons and things that frighten him. Fortunately for Keith he's got a great wife, family, friends and millions of fans who are there to lend support, prayers and encouragement, as evidenced by Keith's message. What about those of us who aren't so lucky? Well there are places you can turn if you have a problem. In the triangle you can reach out to: www.firststepraleigh.com They'll be glad to help you get back to a normal life. I know many of us don't have the financial resources or fame that Keith Urban has, but I do appreciate Keith openly dealing with his problem. It might help touch a fan out there somewhere that is fighting a demon that affects so many of us and requires help to overcome. Thanks Keith for being real!!! That's what country music is all about. Here's to a great 2007 for one of country music's most talented!!!
Keep on Keepin' On!!!

The Big Game is on the way!

2007-01-17T15:11:00.000-05:00

The Big Game is coming up and whether you like football or not, it's still a great excuse to have a big ole' party with friends and family and eat and watch some good football (sometimes) and great commercials.
Thought I'd pass along some great party recipes for the big game.
P.S. Listen to Vince Daniels 6-10am on the NEW 99.9 Genuine Country in the coming weeks for a chance to win a big screen TV for your big game party. It's Soup or Bowl Trivia!!! Yippee!!
Now on with the food:

Here's a great starter from www.epicurious.com

SPICED PARTY MIX
Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 1 hr
2 large egg whites1 1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce1/4 cup sugar2 tablespoons sweet paprika1 1/2 teaspoons cayenne9 cups freshly popped unsalted popcorn2 cups miniature pretzels1 1/2 cups salted roasted peanuts1 1/2 cups whole almonds, toasted1 1/2 cups pecans, toasted1 1/2 cups salted roasted cashews
Preheat oven to 325°F.
Whisk together egg whites, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, paprika, and cayenne in a large bowl. Add popcorn, pretzels, nuts, and salt to taste and toss until thoroughly coated.
Spread evenly in 2 buttered large shallow baking pans (1 inch deep) and bake in upper and lower thirds of oven, switching position of pans halfway through baking, until coating is crisp, about 20 minutes total.
Spread mixture on 2 large sheets of parchment paper or oiled foil and cool completely.
Cooks' note: • Spiced party mix can be made 3 days ahead and kept in an airtight container at room temperature.Makes about 14 cups.

Here's a great Spinach Dip from www.cooksrecipes.com for the chip eaters at your party

1 cup crumbled feta cheese
1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup finely diced red pepper
1/4 cup minced green onions
1 (16-ounce) package chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon OR 2 teaspoons dried tarragon
Preheat oven to 325*F (160*C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine all of ingredients. Spoon mixture into a greased glass baking/serving dish.
Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly browned on top. Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes prior to serving.
Serve with a variety of your favorite crackers.
Makes about 5 cups!
And I'm still pondering some main dishes. More to come.
Have a great wintry day!

The Flip Flop Summer of "07

2007-01-12T15:36:00.000-05:00

Kenny Chesney announced dates of his 2007 "Flip Flop Summer Tour" yesterday and let me tell you friends, this man is becoming bigger than the Beatles. It is just amazing that Kenny is playing stadiums now. But ya know he's filling a void that's been missing in all genres of music for quite some time. He's going old school if you will. He's the new Jimmy Buffett who's number one concern is " fans having fun"
Kenny still gets in his golf cart and rides around the parking lots of arenas, amphitheatres and stadiums before he does a show. How many acts in any kind of music do that? Not many for sure and Kenny is a one of a kind. The energy level at every show I've ever seen is incredible and after his performance on The People's Choice Awards the other night I'm proud he's out there. He's always "On" and in the world of entertainment that's as important as anything. He sings on pitch, oozes charisma and is very marketable. Plus he's the nicest guy on the planet. Makes for a great combination. I think that's one of the great things about country music singers. They're accessible and not aloof. They're part of us and we're a part of them. And that connection, which is very real, is what it's all about.
Here's the latest scoop on Kenny's tour:

KENNY CHESNEY's Flip Flop Summer stadium tour, includes stops at six stadiums beginning with Pittsburgh’s Heinz Field, June 9. BROOKS & DUNN, SUGARLAND, SARA EVANS and PAT GREEN will accompany Kenny on the stadium shows. Other concerts announced are: June 23, Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia; July 7, Quest Field in Seattle; July 14, Brown’s Stadium in Cleveland; July 28, Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts; August 18, Ford Field in Detroit.

More details at www.kennychesney.com

I can bet there'll be two shows again in Raleigh. This is one of Kenny's biggest markets in the south. Wonder if he'd consider doing an outdoor show at Carter-Finley stadium. Now that would be cool!

Nashville Star tonight!!!

2007-01-11T17:48:00.000-05:00

Well the fifth season of the country music version of "American Idol" starts tonight at 10pm on the USA cable network.
Blake Shelton and Randy Owen from the Alabama band will join Anatasia Brown as judges. I'm interested to see what Blake is gonna say. He has one of the most wicked senses of humor in the the country world. He and Brad Paisley qualify as the smartest of the smart alecs and I love 'um both because they are just plain funny!!!
Randy Owen will be able to give some great free advice to these 10 aspiring performers. Randy has seen everything you could see over the span of his 30+year career in the biz. I had a chance to spend some time with Randy at the St. Jude Hospital in Memphis, TN several years ago and the man is full of incredible stories about the stuff he's been through in what is arguably the most successful "band" ever in country music. He's a great guy and always willing to give advice and share his insights(which are many)
I think this year's show will have some very good talent. As to why no one besides Buddy Jewell and Miranda Lambert have been able to crack a hit on country radio, I don't know. I've had many people ask but I don't have any easy answer. It's a crazy business but here's hoping someone will shine and have awesome songs and will end up like Carrie Underwood.
Gonna be a fun time!!
More details at www.usanetwork.com

The Best Hair in Country Music

2007-01-03T17:00:00.000-05:00

Well I know it's my first post on this new blog and I'm excited to share my knowledge of the country music world and life in the greatest country in the world.

Who knows what I'll expound on in 2007. I know that I love the state of North Carolina(and South Carolina) more than anything and will probably talk about great places to visit in the Carolinas. I'll also discuss everything country music, which is a big passion and pays my bills as well.

And I'll of course try to cover things that matter and affect us in the triangle. I hope to cover many aspects of life in the Carolinas. Thanks for reading and now for some juicy gossip.....

Super-hair.net has released a list of nominees for the best hair of 2006 and the category of Best Hairstyle in Music is filled with nothing but country singers....Yes my friends they are a stylish bunch.
Drum roll please.............

The nominees for Best Hair in Music are: Sara Evans
Faith Hill
Martina McBride
Carrie Underwood
Gretchen Wilson
Of those I would say Faith Hill and Martina get my vote. They constantly update their look and are always hip. Faith changes her color quit a bit as well. I've had the chance to meet every one of these lovely women and without a doubt they are all good looking folks and deserve to win. I'm kind of surprised that no men made the list.....Keith Urban has some awesome hair as does Joe Nichols and Billy Ray Cyrus has a pretty swingin' new do(and the mullet is gone forever he tells me..) Who's the winner?

Well you can vote at www.Super-hair.net

I gotta go put some Grecian formula in my hair....all of a sudden I'm feeling like I need to get my hair styled and change the color back to the way it was when I was young!!