Keener 13

Keener Today – October 29

Happening Now:

Godspeed Terry Garr, who passed away today at the age of 79. She began her career as a dancer, appearing in films like “Viva Las Vegas” before transitioning to comedic roles in movies like “Young Frankenstein” and “Tootsie” (for which she received an Oscar nomination). Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1999, Garr became an advocate for the MS community while continuing to act in TV roles until her retirement in 2011. Here’s a compilation of some of her most memorable film work: Continue reading “Keener Today – October 29” →

Keener Today – October 7

Hurricane Milton is rapidly intensifying. Upgraded from a tropical storm to a hurricane on Sunday, it’s now expected to hit Florida’s Gulf Coast as a Category 4 storm by Wednesday. Currently in the Gulf of Mexico, about 780 miles from Tampa, Milton has sustained winds of 85 mph but is forecast to reach 145 mph before landfall.

The Tigers hope to recover from this weekend’s playoff loss today in game two of their series in Cleveland. Gametime si 4:08pm.

If you’ve been Downtown, you might have noticed the #SpiritofDetroit is getting some routine maintenance, including bronze and gold leaf restoration and patina reapplication. Hopefully, he’s ready by Wednesday to wear a #detroittigers jersey! Continue reading “Keener Today – October 7” →

Keener Today – October 6

What’s happening:

The Tigers, Wolverines and Spartans all posted losses this weekend.

Fall is in full swing in Detroit! This weekend, the Annual Detroit Harvest Fest and Food Truck Rally returns to the Detroit Riverfront. With over 50 food trucks, trick-or-treating alleys, a pumpkin patch, crafts, spooky science, and live music across four stages, it’s the perfect fall celebration. The event, held along the Dequindre Cut Greenway, was voted Detroit’s Best Food Truck Gathering by Metro Times readers. Admission is $8, free for kids under 3, seniors 65+, and military personnel. Open today 11am-8pm.

If you’ve been Downtown, you might have noticed the #SpiritofDetroit is getting some routine maintenance, including bronze and gold leaf restoration and patina reapplication. Hopefully, he’s ready by Wednesday to wear a #detroittigers jersey! Continue reading “Keener Today – October 6” →

Keener Today – October 3

We all become bionic men and women eventually. Elton John shares that he’s missing his tonsils, adenoids, appendix, prostate, 2 knees, and a hip. He also admitted to an audience recently that he’s having trouble seeing.

New data indicates Detroit traffic has now surpassed pre-COVID levels. Traffic in the Detroit area has increased by 5.9%. It could be worse. Indianapolis and Columbus, increased by 13% and 16%, respectively.

The Tigers pulled off another magic act yesterday, scoring four runs in the eighth inning for a series-ending, 5-2 win over the Houston Astros. In our first playoff appearance since 2014, Detroit advanced to the American League Division Series against the Cleveland Guardians. Game 1 of the best-of-five series is Saturday at 1:08pm at Progressive Field on TBS.

GM CEO Mary Barra leads Fortune’s list of the 100 most powerful women in business, released yesterday. The list is based on “company size and health, their career path, influence beyond their organization, and how they wield power.” Continue reading “Keener Today – October 3” →

Keener Today – July 28

Keener will be in the house Live when the Foundry Town Survivors return to Ann Arbor, Friday August 9, 6:30-9PM at The LIVE Nightclub at 102 S. First (at Huron) in A2. If you’re within hailing distance, join Keener live, or listen on any device anywhere. The Foundry Town Survivors, August 9. If it’s cool and it’s happening in Metro Detroit, It’s Keener.

Tell a friend about Keener. We’re on every device everywhere. Continue reading “Keener Today – July 28” →

Keener Today – July 22

Today in History:
1934 Outside Chicago’s Biograph Theatre, “Public Enemy No. 1” John Dillinger is mortally wounded by FBI agents.
1959 Ed Wood’s cult classic “Plan 9 From Outer Space”, called one of the worse films ever, premieres.
1963 The Beach Boys released the single “Surfer Girl.”
1967 The Vanilla Fudge rock cover of “You Keep Me Hangin’ On” peaks at #67 in America as the band play their first concert, supporting The Byrds at the Village Theater (later the Fillmore East) in New York City.
1969 Elvis Presley’s NBC-TV Special soundtrack (a/k/a “The ’68 Comeback Special”) is certified gold.
2019 Marvel superhero film “Avengers: Endgame” becomes the world’s highest-grossing film overtaking “Avatar” earning $2.9 billion Continue reading “Keener Today – July 22” →

Keener Today – July 4

Happening Today:

Experience a masterful musical performance amidst 300 years of American history at Salute to America in Greenfield Village. For over 30 years, The Henry Ford and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra have created an unforgettable Fourth of July concert. The village features food trucks, a historic 1913 carousel, presenters in period clothing, and musical ensembles throughout. With seven historic districts to explore, guests can enjoy choral singing, ragtime, blues, jazz, and more. At sunset, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, led by guest conductor Lawrence Loh, delivers a triumphant performance featuring Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture,” cannon fire, and a fireworks finale. Details at TheHenryFord.org. Continue reading “Keener Today – July 4” →

Keener Today – March 19

Have you marked your calendars for the April 8 eclipse? While Detroit won’t experience the full eclipse, the city is close to the path of totality. This proximity is leading to increased interest in eclipse-related events and travel to areas with better views. Delta Airlines even offered a special flight from Texas to Michigan to see the eclipse.

Today in History: Continue reading “Keener Today – March 19” →

Keener Today – March 15

Today in history:

In 1913 1st US presidential press conference was held by Woodrow Wilson.
In 1956 Alan Jay Lerner and Frederick Loewe’s musical “My Fair Lady”, starring Rex Harrison, Julie Andrews, and Stanley Holloway, opens opens in New York for 2,715 performances, winning 6 Tony Awards.
In 1968 LIFE magazine calls Jimi Hendrix “most spectacular guitarist in the world.”
In 1972 “The Godfather”, premieres in NYC. It will win the Best Picture Academy Award in 1973.

Todays Birthdays include:
The late Former Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg was born today in 1933.
Actor Judd Hirsh is 89 today.
Beach Boy Mike Love is 83.
Sylvester Stewart, better known as Sly of the Family Stone is 80.
Blues Guitarist Ry Cooder is 76.
and American Housewife Eva Lonogoria is 49. Continue reading “Keener Today – March 15” →

Keener Today – March 13

Dan Gilbert’s skyscraper on the old Hudson’s department store site remains unnamed as its opening nears. The project faces trademark challenges for the historic “Hudson’s” name, prompting speculation about potential alternatives. While some experts favor incorporating “Hudson’s” for its legacy, the possibility of selling naming rights to large tenants remains open.

It’s never too late. It sounds incredible, but Carole King only recently earned her first platinum single for the iconic song “It’s Too Late”. Several other Tapestry tunes are now achieving RIAA certifications reflecting their continued popularity and sales.

10cc is finally returning to the US for the first time in over 30 years with their Ultimate Greatest Hits Tour. The tour starts this July, hitting major cities across the country. So far, Detroit isn’t on the trip-tik, with Cinci and Indy being the closest venues to Motown. Fans can snag VIP tickets and meet-and-greet packages during the pre-sale – check out 10cc.world for more info. Continue reading “Keener Today – March 13” →

Keener Today – March 12

Variety is reporting a star-studded tribute concert for the late Jimmy Buffett will take place at the Hollywood Bowl on April 11th, featuring Paul McCartney, the Eagles, Brandi Carlile, and many more. Pre-sale tickets go live Wednesday at 10 am PT, with general sales on Friday. This concert promises to be a fitting celebration of Buffett’s life and music.

Keener Birthdays include: Barbara Feldon (Get Smart) is 91 (in 2024) • Liza Minnelli is 78 (in 2024) • Mitt Romney is 77 (in 2024) • James Taylor is 76 (in 2024) • Courtney B. Vance (Law & Order: Criminal Intent) is 64.

Though spring feels close, don’t plant your warm-weather garden yet! Experts at MSU say Frosts can linger well into spring. Wait until after your area’s average last frost date to ensure your plants survive. In the meantime, you can still plant cool-season crops like kale and peas. https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/frost-free-dates

A US News survey says Screens before bed disrupt your sleep cycle because the blue light tricks your brain into staying awake. This leads to poor sleep quality and feeling tired the next day. Try standing while using your phone before bed – when you want to sit or lay down, put the phone away and go to sleep. https://www.usnews.com/360-reviews/sleep/state-of-sleep-americans-report

Wired reports: Starting at the end of April, Airbnb will no longer allow hosts to have security cameras inside their rental properties, citing a commitment to prioritizing guest privacy.

Did you know: Your refrigerator is a major energy user, but simple maintenance can lower your bill. Replace worn-out door seals, clean the coils underneath, and defrost your freezer if it doesn’t do so automatically. Finally, ensure good air circulation by spacing food out in your fridge and avoiding putting hot food inside. https://betterreport.com/refrigerator-maitenance-tasks-lower-electricty-bill/

Political campaigns send a massive number of texts to voters, and that number will likely surge for the 2024 election. This shift is happening because young voters are more likely to respond to texts than calls. To stop unwanted political texts, reply “STOP” or forward the message to 7726 (SPAM). https://www.axios.com/2024/02/22/political-campaign-texts-election-2024

Many millennials aren’t having children because the cost of raising them is too high. NerdWalket.com says Childcare is a major expense, costing millennial parents an average of $665 per month. Options to reduce childcare costs include using a dependent care FSA, seeking financial assistance, finding lower-cost childcare, or having a parent stay home with the child. https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/finance/why-dont-some-millennials-want-kids-they-say-its-too-expensive

Today in: 1969 Paul McCartney marries Linda Eastmanat the register office in Marylebone, London, and again at the Anglican church in St. John’s Wood. None of his Beatles bandmates attend.

1988 Rick Astley’s “Never Gonna Give You Up” hits #1 in the US. The video, which really takes off two decades later with the Rickrolling trend, as webmasters point links to the song’s YouTube video to trick unsuspecting readers into watching it.

1969 Simon & Garfunkel are among the winners at the Grammy Awards, taking Record of the Year for “Mrs. Robinson.” Glen Campbell wins Album of the Year for By The Time I Get To Phoenix.

1966 The theme song to the TV series Batman reaches its chart peak of #17. Brian Setzer still plays the Neal Hefti composition along with the theme from Hawaii 5-0 during his concerts.

The Detroit Institute of Arts has been voted the #1 Art Museum in the US by USA Today for two years running! Explore over 65,000 works in its stunning Beaux-Arts setting, including must-sees like Diego Rivera’s ‘Detroit Industry Murals’ and Van Gogh’s ‘Self-Portrait’. Don’t forget to check out their special Women’s History Month exhibit and grab a bite in the beautiful Kresge Court cafe.

Keener Today – March 11

Oppenheimer took home Best Picture at the 96th Academy Awards, winning seven in total. Poor Things also had a successful night, with Emma Stone winning Best Actress among its four wins. Jimmy Kimmel is getting kudos for hosting and the earlier start got us to bed before midnight.

Here are some of the top winners:

Best picture

“Oppenheimer”

Best actress in a leading role

Emma Stone, “Poor Things”

Best actor in a leading role

Cillian Murphy, “Oppenheimer”

Actress in a supporting role

Da’Vine Joy Randolph, “The Holdovers”

Actor in a supporting role

Robert Downey Jr., “Oppenheimer”

Best director

Christopher Nolan, “Oppenheimer”

Best original screenplay

“Anatomy of a Fall”

Best adapted screenplay

“American Fiction”

Best animated feature film

“The Boy and the Heron”

Best original song

“What Was I Made For?,” “Barbie”

Happy Keener Birthday to Blues Master Al Hill. Somewhere out there is a recording we made of the Beach Boys singing 409 when we were both 8 years old.

Other Keeener birthdays today: TV journalist Sam Donaldson is 90 (in 2024) • Bobby McFerrin (Don’t Worry, Be Happy) is 74 (in 2024) • Pop Singer Lisa Loeb is 56 (in 2024) • Jackass’ Johnny Knoxville is 53 (in 2024)

Kate Middleton has come clean about altering that controversial family photo everyone me is talking g about, sparking further speculation amid her recent absence from the public eye. Photo nerds think it’s a simple Photoshop edit rather than sophisticated AI-generated content. I say, who cares? The biggest photoshop request I get from others is, “get rid of my wrinkles.”

GQ reports those of us who live longest share common lifestyle habits known as the “Power 9,” which include staying active throughout the day, prioritizing social connections, and finding purpose in life. I bet keeping it Keener is part of that formula too.

Unique Beauty dot com discourages going to bed with wet hair. It increases the risk of infections and makes your hair more prone to breakage and tangles. If you’re a wet hair sleeper, let it partially dry first, and use an absorbent, protective covering, to protect those beautiful locks.

Did you know, that the hamburger has its roots in ancient Rome? The recipe spread throughout the Empire, eventually evolving into the Hamburg steak in England. The iconic American staple became popular here in the early 20th century, and has been part of our diet ever since.

If it feels like those airport TSA rules seem inconsistent, they are. Variations depend on what gadgets are available at each airport and evolve with new technology. You can message the TSA Facebook page if you have a trip coming up for your local details.

Did you know that Oat milk’s reputation as a healthy alternative is under fire? Critics allege that the second most popular milk substitute behind almond milk can spike blood sugar, especially if consumed without protein or fat. Despite the criticism, oat milk remains a favorite and is unlikely to disappear from grocery shelves anytime soon. (Delish.com)

On March 11, 1950, Ford Motor Company and Lincoln-Mercury dealers gave $2.5 million for the construction of the Ford Memorial Auditorium in the Civic Center on the Detroit riverfront. Opened in 1956 and demolished in 2011, its exterior is shown here. (Detroit Historical Society)

Like your temperatures right around 70? Climate scientist Brian Brettschneider released updated maps outlining US road trips where the temperature remains a perfect 70 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year. The new routes include both interior and coastal options, spanning over 7,000 miles. (Citylab)

Did you know: Pope Francis, was once a bouncer at a nightclub in Buenos Aires? Before becoming pope in 2013, his humble beginnings, including sweeping floors and working in a chemical lab, contributed to his reputation for humility and modesty.

A interesting fact: Many animal species besides humans are known for forming lifelong mating pairs. Wolves live and hunt in packs but create strong pair bonds for breeding. Swans symbolize love due to these lifelong bonds. Other lifelong partnerships include eagles, coyotes and sea horses.

Today’s quote worth requoting:

Don’t be nervous. Work calmly, joyously, recklessly on whatever is in hand. ~Henry Miller