Keener Today – March 19

April 8, Eclipse Visibility

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:

1962, Bob Dylan‘s self-titled debut album was released in the US by Columbia Records. Produced by the legendary John Hammond – who discovered Billie Holiday, Aretha Franklin, and Bruce Springsteen – it was largely ignored on its release. Its disappointing sales saw Columbia executives describe it as “Hammond’s Folly.”

1964, Sean Connery begins shooting the James Bond film “Goldfinger”

1974 , Jefferson Airplane re-named the group and became Jefferson Starship. The new line-up included Paul Kantner, Grace Slick, drummer Johnny Barbata, David Freiberg, Peter Kaukonen, Cragi Chaquico and Papa John Creach.

1975, Led Zeppelin played the first of two sold-out nights at the Pacific Coliseum in Vancouver, Canada. Tickets cost $7.50. The set list included: ‘Rock And Roll’, ‘Stairway To Heaven’, ‘Whole Lotta Love’, ‘Black Dog’ and ‘Heartbreaker’.

1977, Last episode of “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” premieres on CBS, with a group hug searching for a box tissues, then singing “It’s a Long Way to Tipperary.”

1979, US House of Representatives begins live TV broadcasts via C-SPAN

Singles Released Today: 

* 1965 • Martha & The Vandellas • Nowhere To Run [UK]
* 1965 • Herb Alpert • Whipped Cream [UK]
* 1965 • The Supremes • Stop! In The Name Of Love [UK]
* 1971 • Jethro Tull • Hymn 43
* 1971 • Brewer & Shipley • One Toke Over The Line [UK]
* 1974 • Aerosmith • Same Old Song And Dance
* 1974 • The O’Jays • For The Love Of Money
* 1975 • America • Sister Golden Hair
* 1980 • Ambrosia • Biggest Part Of Me

Miss-heard Lyrics:

Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In’ by Fifth Dimension
– Misheard: “This is the dawning of the Age of Asparagus”
– Correct: “This is the dawning of the Age of Aquarius”

‘We Will Rock You’ by Queen
– Misheard: “Kicking your cat all over the place”
– Correct: “Kicking your can all over the place”

‘I’m a Believer’ by The Monkees
– Misheard: “Then I saw her face, now I’m gonna leave her”
– Correct: “Then I saw her face, now I’m a believer”

‘Blinded by the Light’ by Bruce Springsteen
– Misheard: “Wrapped up like a douche, another rumor in the night”
– Correct: “Revved up like a deuce, another runner in the night”

‘We Didn’t Start the Fire’ by Billy Joel
– Misheard: “We didn’t start the fire, it was always burning, said the worst attorney”
– Correct: “We didn’t start the fire, it was always burning, since the world’s been turning”

‘Desperado’ by The Eagles
– Misheard: “You’ve been outright offensive, for so long now”
– Correct: “You’ve been out riding fences, for so long now”

‘Big Yellow Taxi’ by Joni Mitchell
– Misheard: “If it ain’t paradise, then put up a parking lot”
– Correct: “They paved paradise to put up a parking lot”

‘Stairway to Heaven’ by Led Zeppelin
– Misheard: “There’s a wino down the road”
– Correct: “And as we wind on down the road”

‘Purple Haze’ by Jimi Hendrix
– Misheard: “Excuse me while I kiss this guy”
– Correct: “Excuse me while I kiss the sky”

‘Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds’ by The Beatles
– Misheard: “The girl with colitis goes by”
– Correct: “The girl with kaleidoscope eyes”

Beatles Monopoly

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.

According to a survey, 75 percent of us are done with moving clocks forward and backward. Don’t expect congress to do anything about it anytime soon.

The Doobie Brothers are working on their first new album featuring the band’s core lineup, including Michael McDonald, in almost 50 years. Co-founders Patrick Simmons and Tom Johnston revealed the project to Billboard, noting it would be the first collaboration with McDonald since 1975’s “Takin’ It to the Streets”. The upcoming album is currently in production, with a planned release before their summer tour in June.

Did you know: The “three-color rule” is a versatile style principle used in fashion and other visual fields. It suggests limiting an outfit to a dominant color, a secondary color, and a smaller accent color for a balanced and stylish look. This simple guideline can elevate your wardrobe, streamline dressing decisions, and ensure a cohesive, polished appearance. I have a deeper dive for you on the Keener Today page at Keener thirteen dot com.

USAOpoly’s officially licensed Beatles Monopoly game has been updated for 2024. The latest edition blends classic Monopoly gameplay with iconic Beatles imagery, featuring album covers and song-themed components.

Congratulations to the Ann Arbor Pioneer boys swim team. They won their fourth consecutive state swim chapionship in Division I competition over the weekend. Although the team didn’t win any individual event, they earned the championship with seven second- and third-place finishes.

Warby Parker wants to ensure you witness the April 8th solar eclipse safely by providing free solar eclipse glasses starting April 1st. The celestial event will be visible across a 115-mile-wide path in Mexico, the United States, and Canada.

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.

July 24: Montclair, NJ @ Welmont Theatre
July 25: New York, NY @ Sony Hall
July 26: Patchogue, NY @ Patchogue Theatre
July 27: Glenside, PA @ Keswick Theatre
July 29: Ocean City, NJ @ Ocean City Music Pier
July 30: Kent, OH @ Kent Stage
Aug. 1: St. Charles, IL @ The Arcada Theatre
Aug. 2: Milwaukee, WI @ Pabst Theater
Aug. 3: St. Louis, MO @ The Pageant
Aug. 4: Cincinnati, OH @ Ludlow Garage
Aug. 5: Indianapolis, IN @ Toby Theater at Newfields
Aug. 6: Nashville, TN @ Brooklyn Bowl Nashville
Aug. 8: Dallas, TX @ Majestic Theatre
Aug. 9: San Antonio, TX @ Empire Theatre
Aug. 10: Austin, TX @ ACL Live at Moody Theater
Aug. 12: Tempe, AZ @ Marquee Theater
Aug. 15: Los Angeles, CA @ The United Theater on Broadway
Aug. 17: San Francisco, CA @ Palace of Fine Arts

Neil Young is returning his music to Spotify after a two-year boycott prompted by Joe Rogan’s podcast spreading vaccine misinformation. Young’s decision comes as Rogan’s podcast expands to other platforms, making a Spotify-exclusive boycott difficult. Despite his return, Young remains critical of Spotify’s audio quality.

Detroit Free Press columnist Mitch Albom and other Michiganders were rescued from Haiti by helicopter in an operation led by Florida U.S. Rep. Cory Mills. Albom was visiting an orphanage run by his charity when he became trapped in the country. Michigan U.S. Rep. Lisa McClain worked to facilitate the rescue.

Tigers legend Miguel Cabrera has a new role this year as special assistant to GM Scott Harris. Even though he’s retired, Cabrera took the field in Lakeland yesterday during Detroit’s first day of spring training. (Free Press)

March 13 is being celebrated as 313 day in Detroit, in honor of the iconic Michigan telephone area code. Axios note that events today include:

– The Siren Hotel downtown is hosting art and local DJs while Ash Bar, on the second floor, serves Detroit classics like Coney dogs, hani, bumpy cake and wing dings.
– East-side bar Spot Lite is holding an art raffle worth $313 as DJ Blaaqgold spins all night long.
– TV Lounge is celebrating the city’s music until 2am with a lineup of DJs.

A Deeper Dive: 20 One-Hit Wonders From the ’70s: Where Are They Now? –

Todays Keener Birthdays: Neil Sedaka is 85. (“Breaking Up is Hard to Do”; “Love Will Keep Us Together”), born in Brooklyn, New York/ William H. Macy (Shameless, Jurassic Park III) is 74 (in 2024). Dana Delaney (Hand of God, Body of Proof) is 68 (in 2024), Adam Clayton of U2 is 64 (in 2024) •

Christopher Nolan’s biggest reward for helping “Oppenheimer” was a payday estimated to be just south of $100 million. The film’s success has sparked speculation about Nolan’s next project, which some say might be a remake of the 60s television series, “The Prisoner,” with potential suitors including Warner Bros. and Universal. This month in 2009: some bungling burgers’ bid to steal thousands from a bank ended in farce as they mistakenly drilled into an empty office next door, earning them the title of Britain’s worst bank robbers.

A Keener Health Tip: Better Report suggests it’s better to brush your teeth before breakfast since plaque builds up while you sleep. Dentists also suggest flossing before you brush for best results.

Today in history:

1877 American Chester Greenwood patents earmuffs after inventing them at age 15

1965 Eric Clapton, concerned that the band is becoming too commercial, leaves The Yardbirds. His replacement is Jeff Beck.

1976 The Four Seasons hit #1 in America with “December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night),” making them the only act to chart #1 hits before, during and after The Beatles.

1999 Cher becomes the oldest woman to top the Hot 100 with “Believe.” It spent four weeks at number one when she was fifty-three.

2006 Isaac Hayes quits the TV series South Park after an episode airs mocking his religion, Scientology.

Keener Number ones this week:

(1964) Suspicion, Terry Stafford
(1965) Can’t You Hear My Heartbeat, Herman’s Hermits
(1966) These Boots Are Made For Walking, Nancy Sinatra
(1967) Happy Together, Turtles
(1968) Love is Blue, Paul Mauriat
(1969) Dizzy, Tommy Roe
(1970) Bridge Over Troubled Waters, Simon & Garfunkle
(1971) What’s Going On, Marvin Gaye
(1972) Without You, Nilsson

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.
Marshall Crenshaw

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)

70 Degree Routes

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

Keener Today – January 27

What’s Happening:

Ford Field ScreensTickets for the Ford Field Lions watch party sold out on Monday in less than 12 hours. StubHub still has tix. You can check out the entire Ford Field seating chart here.

See Father of the Bride is on stage at Meadowbrook tonight at 6pm. Details at Ticketmaster.com

Check out Dinosaur World Live at The Fisher Theater 3011 W Grand Blvd, Detroit – Today at 3pm. Details and video at DinosaurWorldLive.com

Winterfest on Bell Isle Nature Center happens today from 11am till 4pm. Admission is free with details at detroitzoo.org

Get that heart rate up at Skates and Salads today at 5:30 at the Campus Martius Rink followed by healthy eats at 7Greens Salads. Details at AllEvents.

Congrats to new Michigan Football head coach Sherrone Moore. Jim Harbaugh’s successor already has six wins to his credit.

You say it – Keener plays it:

We’re playing faves from this week in 1968 all day on Keener13.com. What are yours? Pick em and we’ll play em. Kick the request box.

“I was a pre-teen AM rock enthusiast living in West Bloomfield, MI and couldn’t get enough of “The Motown Sound” and Stax, which pleased my parents as they liked R&B, but then came that second wave of British invasion. That included Cream and Small Faces from the above list. I STILL can’t get enough all that, which is now ‘classic rock’.” – Adrienne Daley – West Bloomfield.

“I remember Spookey. Great Tune.” – Bob Naismith – Flint.

“The year of the Tiger!” – Christine Hibbard – Livonia
This week in 1968

Born Today:

1885 – Jerome Kern: Prolific theater, film, and music composer with over 700 songs. Notable works include “Ol’ Man River” and “Smoke Gets In Your Eyes.” Died at 60 on 11/11/1945.

1919 – David Seville (Ross Bagdasarian): Armenian-American actor, pianist, and creator of Alvin & The Chipmunks. Notable songs include “Witch Doctor” and “The Chipmunk Song.” Died at 52 on 1/16/1972.

1930 – Bobby “Blue” Bland: R&B/soul-blues-gospel singer, Lifetime Grammy winner. Notable track “That’s The Way Love Is.” Died at 83 on 6/23/2013.

1937 – Bruce Tate: Founding member and tenor vocals for The Penguins. Notable hit “Earth Angel.” Died at 36 on 6/20/1973.

1943 – Thom Bell: Jamaican-American musician, key architect of “Philly Soul.” Notable works with The Delfonics, The Spinners, and The Stylistics. Died at 79 on 12/22/2022. Some of his hits include: Betcha by Golly, Wow, Didn’t I (Blow Your Mind This Time), I’ll Be Around, La-La (Means I Love You), The Rubberband Man, Then Came You, Mama Can’t Buy You Love.

1946 – Nedra Talley: Backing vocals for The Ronettes, known for “Be My Baby.”

1948 – Kim Gardner: Bassist in The Thunderbirds and Ashton, Gardner & Dyke. Died at 53 on 10/24/2001. We have video of Resurrection Shuffle, live on Top of the Pops.

1951 – Brian Downey: Drummer for Thin Lizzy, known for “The Boys Are Back In Town.”

1951 – Seth Justman: Keyboards and vocals for J. Geils Band, wrote “Centerfold.”

1952 – G.E. Smith: Guitarist, bandleader, and session musician. Played with Hall & Oates, Saturday Night Live, Bob Dylan, and others.

Actor Alan Alda is 88. Humorist Mo Rocca is 55. Actor Elijah Wood is 43.

Singles Released Today:

1956 – Elvis Presley“Heartbreak Hotel”
1967 –Smokey Robinson & The Miracles“The Love I Saw In You Was Just A Mirage”
1973 – Electric Light Orchestra “Roll Over Beethoven”

Today in History:

In 1956, Elvis Presley made his first national TV appearance on “Stage Show,” a CBS program hosted by Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey. We have video.

In 1962, with “The Twist” at #1 in America, two San Francisco DJs sell out the Cow Palace in San Francisco with a “Twist Party” headlined by Chubby Checker.

In 1970, John Lennon wrote, recorded, and mixed his new single ‘Instant Karma!’ in one day at London’s Abbey Road Studios, making it one of the fastest-released songs in pop music history, hitting stores just ten days after its creation. We have video.

In 1973, a cease-fire officially went into effect in the Vietnam War, a day after the signing of the Paris Peace Accords by the United States, North Vietnam and South Vietnam.

In 1973, Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition,” featuring a drum beat originated by Jeff Beck, became his second No.1 single in the US, 10 years after his first No.1 hit, and despite being initially offered to Beck, Berry Gordy insisted that Wonder himself record it first. We have video of Stevie and Jeff performing Superstition at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 25th anniversary celebration.

In 1986, the space shuttle Challenger exploded 73 seconds after liftoff from Cape Canaveral, killing all seven crew members, including schoolteacher Christa McAuliffe.

Weekend Extra: 22 Songs That Mention Michigan

  • “America” – Simon and Garfunkel – LYRIC: “Michigan seems like a dream to me now”
  • “Back in ’72” – Bob Seger – LYRIC: “But we got homesick for Lincoln Park”
  • “Brass In Pocket” – Pretenders- LYRIC: “Been driving, Detroit leaning”
  • “Dancing In Lansing” – Ronnie Hernandez
  • “Dancing In The Street” – Martha & The Vandellas – LYRIC: “Can’t forget the Motor City”
  • “Detroit Breakdown” – J. Geils Band
  • “Detroit City” – Bobby Bare
  • “Detroit Made” – Bob Seger
  • “Detroit Rock City” – Kiss
  • “Don’t Stop Believin’” – Journey -LYRIC: “Born and raised in South Detroit”
  • “Heart Of Rock & Roll” – Huey Lewis & The News -LYRIC: “DETROIT!”
  • “Heat Is On” – Glenn Frey – From the film “Beverly Hills Cop” which takes place in Michigan.
  • “I Care About Detroit” – Smokey Robinson & The Miracles
  • “I Got A Gal In Kalamazoo” – Glenn Miller
  • “Inner City Blues” – Marvin Gaye“Makin’ Thunderbirds” – Bob Seger
  • “Michigan Blackhawk” – The Monkees
  • “Night Moves” – Bob Seger
  • “Panic In Detroit” – David Bowie
  • “Saginaw, Michigan” – Lefty Frizzell
  • “She Was Hot” – Rolling Stones – LYRIC: “Detroit was smoky grey”
  • “Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald” – Gordon Lightfoot -LYRICS: “The searchers all say they’d have made Whitefish Bay,” “Lake Huron rolls, Superior sings,” “Old Michigan steams like a young man’s dreams,” “And farther below Lake Ontario takes in what Lake Erie can send her,” “In a musty old hall in Detroit they prayed,” “Superior, they said, never gives up her dead.”

Michigan Central Terminal

The Top 113 Requests of 2023 – Plus the second 113

During Keener’s first official year back on the air, 22,769 listeners made 14,738 requests for over 2,300 different records. It’s fascinating how time deepens our love for some tunes and presses other back into the deeper recesses of our memories. Here’s a list of the 226 most requested songs you made on the Keener Digital Hitlines, in order of popularity. Keep em comin!

Title Artist
1 Respect Aretha Franklin – Rationals
2 Grazing in the Grass Friends of Distinction – Hugh Masekela
3 I Can’t Help Myself “Sugar Pie Honey Bunch” Four Tops
4 Like a Rolling Stone Rolling Stones
5 “We Ain’t Got” Nothin’ Yet Blues Magoos
6 I Fought the Law Bobby Fuller Four
7 Do You Believe in Magic Lovin’ Spoonful
8 Five O’Clock World Vogues
9 Nowhere to Run Martha and the Vandellas – Isley Brothers
10 Get on Up Esquires
11 Twist and Shout Isley Brothers – Beatles
12 I Had Too Much to Dream “Last Night” Electric Prunes
13 Fire Crazy World of Arthur Brown – Jimi Hendrix
14 Along Comes Mary Association
15 I Can See for Miles Who
16 It’ the Same Old Song Four Tops
17 Light My Fire Doors
18 Brown Eyed Girl Van Morrison
19 Time Won’t Let Me Outsiders
20 You’re the One Vogues
21 Sugar and Spice Cryan Shames
22 Somebody to Love Jefferson Airplane
23 I Wonder What She’s Doing Tonite Boyce and Hart
24 For Your Love Yardbirds
25 Good Vibrations Beach Boys – Todd Rundgren
26 California Dreamin’ Mamas and Papas – Beach Boys
27 Come On Down to My Boat Every Mother’s Son
28 You Keep Me Hangin’ On Supremes
29 There’s a Kind of Hush Herman’s Hermits
30 Runaway Del Shannon
31 Pleasent Valley Sunday Monkees
32 Love Child Supremes
33 Hungry Paul Revere and the Raiders
34 I Know a Place Petula Clark
35 Journey to the Center of the Mind Amboy Dukes
36 Go Where You Wanna Go Fifth Dimension
37 Touch Me Doors
38 Feelin’ Stronger Every Day Chiacago
39 Glad All Over Dave Clark Five
40 Catch Us If You Can Dave Carlk Five
41 Bits and Pieces Dave Clark Five
42 Ain’t No Mountain High Enough Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
43 All I Really Want to Do Byrds – Cher
44 We Can Work It Out Beatles – Stevie Wonder
45 Walk Away Renee Left Banke
46 Shotgun Jr. Walker and the All Stars
47 Oh Pretty Woman Roy Orbison
48 Paperback Writer Beatles
49 I’m Into Something Good Earl Jean – Herman’s Hermits
50 Lightnin’ Strikes Lou Christie
51 For What It’ Worth Buffalo Springfield
52 Can’t Buy Me Love Beatles
53 Wichita Lineman Glen Campbell
54 Words of Love Mamas and Papas
55 Vehicle Ides of March
56 Superfly Curtis Mayfield
57 Spinning Wheel Blood, Sweat and Tears
58 She’s Not There Zombies – Neil MacArthur
59 Shakin’ All Over Guess Who
60 Mr. Tambourine Man Byrds
61 Rambilng Gambling Man Bob Seger
62 Never My Love Association
63 Rescue Me Fontilla Bass
64 Kicks Paul Revere and the Raiders
65 I Dig Rock and Roll Music Peter, Paul and Mary
66 Do Wah Diddy Manfred Mann
67 California Girls Beach Boys
68 “I Can’t Get No” Satisfaction Rolling Stones
69 Carpet Man Fifth Dimension
70 Turn, Turn, Turn, Byrds
71 The River Is Wide Forum
72 Your Precious Love Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
73 Up Up and Away Fifth Dimension – Johnny Mann Singers
74 Valleri Monkees
75 The Game Of Love Mindbenders
76 Sweet Pea Tommy Roe
77 Secret Agent Man Johnny Rivers
78 Thank the Lord for the Night Time Neil Diamond
79 Soul Finger Bar-Kays
80 She’s Just My Style Gary Lewis and the Playboys
81 Please Mr. Postman Beatles
82 Look Through Any Window Hollies
83 Mony Mony Tommy James
84 No Matter What Badfinger
85 I Saw Her Again Mamas and Papas
86 I Get Around Beach Boys
87 Don’t Pull Your Love Hamilton, Joe Frank and Reynolds
88 Eight Days a Week Beatles
89 Good Lovin’ Rascals
90 19th Nervous Breakdown Rolling stones
91 Baby Blue Badfinger
92 Build Me Up Buttercup Foudations
93 Baby I Need Your Loving Johnny Rivers – Four Tops
94 Cherry Cherry Neil Diamond
95 Classical Gas Mason Williams
96 Born to Be Wild Steppenwolf
97 You’ve Got Your Troubles Fortunes
98 You Didn’t Have to Be So Nice Lovin’ Spoonful
99 Turn-Down Day Cyrcle
100 To Sir With Love Lulu
101 The Beat Goes On Sonny and Cher
102 San Francisco Scott MacKenzie
103 Silence Is Golden Tremeloes
104 The Letter Box Tops – Joe Cocker – Arbors
105 Pinball Wizard Who – Elton John
106 Magical Mystery Tour Beatles
107 Over And Over Dave Clark Five
108 I Only Want to Be With You Dusty Springfield
109 Indian Lake Cowsills
110 I Like It Like That Dave Clark Five
111 Green Tambourine Lemon Pipers
112 Elusive Butterfly Bob Lind
113 Hang on Sloopy McCoys
114 Here Comes My Baby Tremeloes
115 Him or Me Paul Revere and the Raiders
116 Baby It’s You Smith
117 A Well Respected Man Kinks
118 California Soul Fifth Dimension
119 Can’t Take My Eyes Off You Four Seasons – Lettermen
120 25 Miles Edwin Starr
121 Be My Baby Ronettes
122 Dancing in the Street Martha and the Vandellas
123 Up-Up and Away Fifth Dimension – Johnny Mann Singers
124 Ticket to Ride Beatles – Carpenters
125 You Don’t Have to Say You Love Me Sandy Posey
126 She’d Rather Be With Me Turtles
127 She Loves You Beatles
128 The Girl’s Song Fifth Dimension
129 Ruby Tuesday Rolling Stones
130 Monday Monday Mamas and Papas
131 Piece of My Heart Big Brother & the Holding Company
132 Memphis Johnny Rivers
133 Needles and Pins Searchers
134 Only the Lonely Roy Orbison
135 Nobody But Me Human Beinz
136 Nothing but a Heartache Flirtations
137 Last Train To Clarksville Monkees
138 Itchycoo Park Small Faces
139 I’m a Believer Monkees
140 Friday On My Mind Easybeats
141 Hanky Panky Tommy James
142 Everybody Loves a Clown Gary Lewis and the Playboys
143 Eight Miles High Byrds
144 “Just Like” Romeo and Juliet Reflections
145 Dance to the Music Sly and the Family Stone
146 Barbara Ann Beach Boys
147 Anyone Who Had a Heart Dionne Warwick
148 Aquarius / Let the Sunshine In Fifth Dimension
149 Cool Jerk Capitols
150 Wishin’ and Hopin’ Dusty Springfield – Dionne Warwick
151 You Can’t Always Get What You Want Rolling Stones
152 Yakety Yak Coasters
153 White Room Cream
154 This Diamond Ring Gary Lewis and the Playboys
155 Wild Night Van Morrison – John Mellencamp
156 Time for Livin’ Association
157 Western Union Five Americans
158 See You in September Happenings
159 Shape of Things to Come Yardbirds – Max Frost
160 Sunshine Superman Donovan
161 Shake Me Wake Me “When It’s Over” Four Tops
162 Temptation Eyes Grassroots
163 Shake Rattle and Roll Arthur Conley
164 Summer in the City Lovin’ Spoonful
165 Proud Mary Creedence Clearwater Revival – Ike & Tina
166 Love or Let Me Be Lonely Friends of Distinction
167 Music to Watch Girls By Bob Crewe Generation
168 Love Grows “Where My Rosemary Goes” Edison Lighthouse
169 MacArthur Park Richard Harris
170 My Boyfriend’ Back Crystals
171 Midnight Confessions Grassroots
172 Little Darlin’ Diamonds
173 Mirage Tommy James
174 My Whole World Ended “the Moment You Left Me” David Ruffin
175 If I Were a Carpenter Bobby Darin
176 I Got You Babe Sonny and Cher
177 I’m Happy Just to Dance With You Beatles
178 It Hurts to Be in Love Gene Pitney
179 I Want to Hold Your Hand Beatles
180 I’m Telling You Now Freddie and the Dreamers
181 I Want to Take You Higher Sly and the Family Stone
182 I Was Made to Love Her Stevie Wonder
183 Help Beatles
184 Bus Stop Hollies
185 1,2,3 Len Barry
186 Bernadette Four Tops
187 Dance Dance Dance Beach Boys
188 Twistin’ the Night Away Sam Cooke
189 Will You Be Staying After Sunday Peppermint Rainbow
190 The Pied Piper Crispian St. Peter
191 You Were on My Mind Wee Five
192 Whatcha See Is Whatcha Get Dramatics
193 Shake Sam Cooke
194 Magic Carpet Ride Steppenwolf
195 Rag Doll Four Seasons
196 Out of Limits Marketts
197 I’m Gonna Make You Mine Lou Christie
198 Kentucky Woman Neil Diamond
199 I Want You Back Jackson Five
200 I Should Have Known Better Beatles
201 I Feel the Earth Move Carole King
202 In the Midnight Hour Wanted
203 Don’t Sleep in the Subway Petula Clark
204 Hello I Love You Doors
205 Domino Van Morrison
206 Help Me Rhonda Beach Boys
207 Dead Man’s Curve Jan and Dean
208 Done Too Soon Neil Diamond
209 Good Morning Starshine Oliver
210 Fever Little Willie John
211 Cherish Association
212 All My Loving Beatles
213 Beechwood 4-5789 Marvelettes
214 A Sign of the Times Petula Clark
215 Bend Me Shape Me American Breed
216 Awaiting On You All Silverhawk
217 Can’t You See That She’s Mine Dave Clark Five
218 September Earth Wind and Fire
219 Big Yellow Taxi Joannie Mitchell – Counting Crows – Amy Grant
220 Baby Now That I Found You Foundations
221 Because Dave Clark Five
222 Be True to Your School Beach Boys
223 You Really Got Me Kinks
224 Turn Back the Hands of Time Tyrone Davis
225 We Can Fly Cowsills
226 Town Without Pity Gene Pitney

The Top 13 Most Requested Artists were…

The Beatles
The Beach Boys
The Four Tops
The 5th Dimension
The Rolling Stones
The Dave Clark Five
The Temptations
The Monkees
Neil Diamond
The Mamas & Papas
The Association
The Supremes

Question: Do listener requests reflect a song’s popularity on Keener?

Answer: Yes and no. When we launched the reinvigorated Keener13.com, we built our music library by researching every record Keener played, should have played and might have played, using sales data, chart positions across several of the country’s most popular top-40 stations and with a keen set of eyes on what you told us you wanted to hear on the digital hitlines. Listener preferences ebb and flow with time and familiarity. Yup, you hear a lot of the same songs you remember, some more frequently than others. If you tell us it’s “too frequent,” we’ll put a song on vacation for awhile. Every bit of music feedback molds the Keener sound for you every day. Hopefully it’s a mix of both the fresh and the familiar, with the personal attention to you and your interests that made Keener popular when it first burst onto the scene in the fall of 1963. This list reflects the specific requests you made over the past year. Some songs, you may not have asked for, because you were already hearing them. Perhaps that’s why classics like the Temptations, “I Can’t Get Next to You,” The Doors’ “Light My Fire,” and other records that charted at the top of the WKNR Music Guide aren’t on this list. We play em, and you’re hearing them. So you’re thinking about other tunes you might not hear as often and plugging those into the request queue. Whatever the methodology, we’re thrilled by the audience participation in the new Keener Thirteen. We’re still your station, we still care about Detroit – Michigan and about you. Boomers still rule and we still play what you say.

Detroit

Keener Today – October 20

Things to do in Detroit this weekend: (Visit Detroit)

  • Ofrendas: Celebrating el Día de Muertos – The 11th edition of ‘Ofrendas: Celebrating el Día de Muertos’ features 13 beautiful ofrendas created by local artists and community members. This annual exhibition offers a unique opportunity to connect with the customs of honoring the departed and participate in a collective act of remembrance.
  • Take a Haunted Tour – Detroit has a wide variety of paranormal tour activities, catering to both experienced enthusiasts and families. .
  • Honest John’s Side Lot Cider Mill Visit the side lot beside Honest John’s to enhance your October weekends.
    From 10 am to 5 pm, enjoy fall treats like cider, donuts, drinks, and games in a lively autumn atmosphere.
  • Halloween Science – Head to the Cranbrook Institute of Science for Halloween Science fun. The whole family can engage in Halloween-themed activities, watch pumpkins launched from a three-ton trebuchet, and experience a 1,000,000-volt Tesla coil demonstration in the auditorium. Costumes are welcome!
Latest National Weather Map

Notable:

Jan Crave is our Keener Word of the Day – Happy Birthday, Jan!

Electric “air taxis” are poised to revolutionize commuting in New York and Los Angeles. Gleaming new Delta Air Lines terminals in these major cities plan to introduce convenient “vertiports” for passengers utilizing electric air taxis. This innovation aims to address the often arduous journey to the airport, whisking customers above congested roadways, saving time and offering quieter, more eco-friendly transportation. The success of flying taxis will hinge on FAA approvals, production scaling, and cost considerations.(Axios)

Is 98.6 still normal? Keith’s one-hit-wonder celebrates a 150 year old paradigm about body temperature. New research says we may be running a lot cooler. (NYT)

Are we too available to our kids? That’s what one mom started wondering after her 13-year-old son tracked her down at her exercise class with a request. Doctor Becky Kennedy, who studies these things said recently, “Our phones rob us of our feeling of enoughness,” she told the audience. They make us feel like there’s always something more satisfying that we could be doing.” (The Cut)

Netflix’s campaign to crack down on password-sharing appears to be yielding results, as indicated by the latest earnings report. The streaming giant exceeded Wall Street expectations by adding nearly 9 million new subscribers worldwide and generating $8.5 billion in revenue for the third quarter of 2023, an almost 8 percent increase compared to the previous year.

Today in History:

1954 – The musical “Peter Pan” starring Mary Martin and Cyril Ritchard, opened at New York’s Winter Garden Theater for a planned limited run of 152 performances.

1955 – Elvis Presley, Bill Haley, The Four Lads and Pat Boone appear together in concert at the Brooklyn High School auditorium in Cleveland, Ohio.

1955 – Harry Belafonte records a traditional Jamaican Folk tune called “The Banana Boat Song” (“Day-O”). It reached #5 in the US in early 1957 and later became Belafonte’s signature song.

1955 – “No Time for Sergeants,” starring Andy Griffith, opened at New York’s Alvin Theatre for 796 performances. Don Knotts also made his Broadway debut in the play.

1957 – The documentary series “The 20th Century,” hosted by newsman Walter Cronkite, began its 12-year, 2½-month run on CBS-TV.

1961 – Bob Dylan began two days of recording for his self-titled debut album. The cost to produce the sessions was $400.

1962 – “The Monster Mash” by Bobby “Boris” Pickett, reached the top of Billboard’s Hot 100 singles chart. This novelty song, which was recorded in less than two hours, has now become an annual favorite.

1963 – 2.5 million Keener lucky matchbooks are distributed through 100 Detroit area Cunningham Drug Stores.

1965 – At EMI’s Abbey Road Studios in London, the Beatles recorded “We Can Work It Out.”

1968 – Former U.S. First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy married shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis. They remained together until his death in 1975.

1969 – The Who performed their new rock opera “Tommy” in its entirety during the first night of a six-night run at New York’s Fillmore East.

1973 – The Rolling Stones had the number one song in the US with “Angie”. It made #5 in the UK. It is often reported that the song was written about David Bowie’s wife at the time, the former Angela Barnett, but many reliable sources say that the song is really about Anita Pallenberg, the long-time love of Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards.

1976 – Led Zeppelin’s film, The Song Remains the Same, a mixture of concert footage and fantasy sequences, premieres at Cinema I in New York.

1977 – Three members of Lynyrd Skynyrd, die in a plane crash. Ronnie Van Zant, Steve Gaines, his sister Cassie Gaines (one of three backing singers) and manager Dean Kilpatrick were killed en route from Greenville, South Carolina, to Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The remaining members, Gary Rossington, Allen Collins, Billy Powell and Leon Wilkeson were seriously injured, but all recovered. The band was finished for ten years, until the survivors invited Ronnie’s younger brother Johnny to join them in a reunion concert.

1978 – The Police made their U.S. performance debut in New York City at CBGB’s. They flew from the UK on low-cost tickets with Laker Airtrain and carried their instruments as hand luggage.

1979 – Herb Alpert, who led his Tijuana Brass on seventeen instrumental chart hits in the mid 1960s, reached number one in the US with a dance tune called “Rise”. IThe song will win a Grammy Award for Best Pop Instrumental Performance.

1980 – At Soundcastle Studio in Hollywood, Juice Newton recorded “The Sweetest Thing (I’ve Ever Known).”

2001 – An all-star lineup including David Bowie, Mick Jagger, Eric Clapton, Billy Joel, Elton John and The Who appear at The Concert For New York City at Madison Square Garden in a five hour show to benefit the victims of the 9/11 attack.

2014 – Cat Stevens first album in five years, “Tell ‘Em I’m Gone”, began streaming on www.NPR.org. The LP was supported by a six-date tour beginning in December, his first string of North American dates in 35 years.

Singles Released Today:
1962 – Four Seasons – “Big Girls Don’t Cry”
1972 – Focus – “Hocus Pocus”
1973 – Steve Miller Band – “The Joker”
1978 – Talking Heads – “Take Me To The River”
1980 – John Lennon – “(Just Like) Starting Over”

Today’s Birthdays:

1927 – Joyce Brothers, American pop psychologist ($64,000 Question, Naked Gun), born in NYC, New York (d. 2013)
1931 – Mickey Mantle, American Baseball HOF outfielder (1956 Triple Crown; 20 x MLB All Star; 7 × World Series; 3 × AL MVP; NY Yankees), born in Spavinaw, Oklahoma (d. 1995)
1932 – William Christopher, American comedian and actor (M*A*S*H & AfterMASH – “Father Mulcahy”), born in Evanston, Illinois (d. 2016)
1935 – Jerry Orbach, American actor (Law & Order, Dirty Dancing), born in The Bronx, New York (d. 2004)
1937 – Wanda Jackson (age 86) – (“In The Middle Of A Heartache”)
1939 – Jay Siegel (age 84) – lead singer of The Tokens (“The Lion Sleeps Tonight”)
1945 – Ric Lee (age 78) – drummer for Ten Years After (“Spider In My Web”)
1951 – Al Greenwood (age 72) – keyboardist for Foreigner (“Waiting For A Girl Like You”)
1953 – Tom Petty (“Don’t Do Me Like That”) (d. 2017)
1958 – Viggo Mortensen (age 63), American Actor (Lord of the Rings, The Road), born in NYC, New York.
1964 – Vice President Kamala Harris (age 59), American lawyer, politician and 49th Vice President of the United States (2021-) who was the 1st African-American, Asian-American attorney general of California, born in Oakland, California
1968 – Sunny Hostin (age 55), American lawyer, journalist and TV host (The View), born in New York City.
1971 – Snoop Dogg (age 52), Rapper, entrepreneur (“What’s My Name”; “Drop It Like It’s Hot”), born in Long Beach, California.
1979- John Krasinski (age 44), Actor, director and producer (The Office, A Quiet Place), born in Boston, Massachusetts.

Stock Ownership

Keener Today – October 19

More households own stock than ever before – It’s a distinctive characteristic of American capitalism, differentiating us from other major advanced nations, according to Axios Markets’ Matt Phillips. The Federal Reserve’s triennial Survey of Consumer Finances for 2022 revealed that approximately 58% of American households held stocks, whether directly or indirectly through investment accounts, surpassing the previous peak of 53% during the dot-com era and prior to the Global Financial Crisis. Notably, the surge in direct ownership of individual shares, rising from 15% to 21% between 2019 and 2022, played a pivotal role, attributed partly to changes in American behavior influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, with many turning to the stock market as an alternative to sports gambling. This shift was further propelled by user-friendly smartphone apps like Robinhood, making retail stock trading a prominent cultural phenomenon, exemplified by the GameStop frenzy in January 2021. (Axios)

Notable:

The Las Vegas Aces win two WNBA Championship in a row – WNBA Finals MVP A’ja Wilson expressed her satisfaction in silencing critics as her Las Vegas Aces secured their second consecutive championship victory by narrowly defeating the New York Liberty 70-69 in Game 4 held at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. Wilson’s exceptional performance of 24 points and 16 rebounds was instrumental in the Aces’ comeback from a 12-point deficit against New York in a thrilling matchup of “superteams,” as reported by Reuters. Addressing reporters, Wilson emphasized the significance of this win, stating, “To be up here – this one was special because so many people counted us out. A lot of people counted us out… a lot of people in here said Liberty in five. We read it, we see it and it fueled us. So thank you! That says a lot about us. We came ready to play.” (WNBA)

Catalytic converter theft is up 1,215% since 2019, says the National Insurance Crime Bureau. Thieves target them for pricey metals. To protect your car: Park securely, use lighting and cameras. Paint or engrave your converter. Get an alarm or anti-theft device from your mechanic. (NBA) Continue reading “Keener Today – October 19”

The Bee Gees

Keener Today – October 18

Today in 1968, The Bee Gees’ “Massachusetts” reaches No.1, their first of five No.1 hits.”Massachusetts” was written by the Gibb brothers in New York City during a US tour and originally intended for The Seekers, an Australian folk act. Bee Gees recorded the song themselves when they couldn’t reach The Seekers, even though they had never been to Massachusetts; they liked the name.The original Bee Gees also included Vince Melouney on rhythm guitar and Colin Petersen on drums.

Notable:

Who has the best Mac n cheese? Bon Appétit conducted a rigorous blind taste test. Eight brands of boxed mac and cheese were subjected to scrutiny, judging factors like sauce consistency, noodle texture, and overall appeal. Ultimately, Annie’s Shells and Real Aged Cheddar beat out old favorites like Kraft and Cheetos, charming tasters with its delightful shells, rich, sharp cheddar sauce, and perfectly creamy consistency. (Bon Appétit)

Looking for Halloween themed bar action in metro Detroit? We’ve got some enchantingly diverse suggestions – At Halloweiss by Weiss Distilling Co., ghoulish bartenders craft concoctions within a haunt of monsters and ravens. If you’re in the mood for movie-themed trivia, Five15 Royal Oak offers Halloween and Hocus Pocus-themed challenges paired with adult frappés and spiked cocoa. For a dose of horror movie trivia and themed drinks, Dragon’s Landing in St. Clair Shores is the place to be on October 24. Hamtramck’s Black Salt, the city’s sole “witchcraft cocktail bar,” hosts rituals for the Celtic festival of Samhain, while Abick’s Bar in Southwest Detroit offers private psychic readings and spiritual workshops. The Horrorween Bar Crawl, hitting bars in Greektown and beyond, promises spooky fun with food and drink specials. Canine to Five brings adorable costume contests to Marble Bar, while a Rock & Roll Horror Show at Cadieux Cafe raises funds for WDET, Detroit’s NPR station. At Small’s, the Thirst Wave + Industrial Is Not Dead Halloween Bash is your retro music haven with costume contests and cash prizes. Ferndale Halloween market offers shopping delights at Urbanrest Brewing Company, and Whiskey in the Jar beckons you to Hallowhiskey for a night of raucous partying. The Unity Fund Halloween Bash supports LGBTQ+ political candidates, while Birmingham’s Daxton Hotel hosts a formal masquerade. For a magical touch, visit the Witching Hours Magic Tea Party at the New Dodge Lounge, featuring traditional English tea, tarot readings, and a costume competition. Detroit’s Halloween bars are brewing up the perfect concoction of scares and delights for the spookiest season of the year. (Detroit Eater)

The Firefox browser will soon be able to detect fake news. The company has acquired Fakespot, a startup that specializes in detecting fake online reviews. The newly integrated ‘Review Checker’ feature in Firefox uses an A-to-F scale to rate the reliability of product reviews on sites like Amazon, Yelp, TripAdvisor, Walmart, and eBay. (Mashable)

Factoid: Worldwide, there are nearly 600,000 individuals aged 100 or older, most of whom claim not to know the secret to reaching such an age. However, if you aim to surpass 100, their unanimous advice is to avoid attempting to extinguish 100 birthday candles.

Did you know: Six US locations made the cut In a recent survey of the world’s coolest neighborhoods. Here’s the entire list. (Timeout)

Selected taxpayers across 13 states will get to try out the agency’s pilot electronic free file tax return system beginning in January. – The IRS says Hundreds of thousands of taxpayers are expected to participate in this program for the 2024 filing season. This move has raised concerns from private tax preparation companies that have profited from charging users for their software, potentially disrupting the industry. The IRS aims to roll out the program incrementally, drawing on data from the pilot to determine its effectiveness. While the pilot initially covers individual federal tax returns and not state returns, there are plans to integrate state taxes in the future. Eligibility for the pilot program will be determined based on income, tax credits, and deductions, and further details will be released in January. (Detroit News) Continue reading “Keener Today – October 18”

Keener Today – October 17

WKNR 10-17-1966The week of October, 17, 1966 found Keener at the zenith of it’s popularity. The air line-up you see is the iconic staff most Keener fans of the era remember, with the legendary Detroit radio personality, Dick Purtan cemented into the morning shift he would hold down for decades. Ted Clark and Jerry Goodwin became the quintessential mid-day team with Bob Green in the crucial “afternoon drive” time slot and Scott Regen pulling in huge night-time ratings between 7-10pm. J. Michael Wilson, who would find his way to mornings on Keener after Dick’s departure jocked from 10p-1a, while former WKFR (Battle Creek) DJ, Jim Jeffries sat in the chair overnight. Paul Cannon, a weekend stalwart, also held down the music director role and was responsible for the combination of sales data and listener requests that populated the week’s WKNR Music Guide.

The Surfaries kept their top spot. Perhaps listeners still longed for summertime as Detroit’s fall temperatures plunged. The Top 10 included records we still hear today, including artists like Johnny Rivers, Mitch Ryder, Herman’s Hermits and Tommy Roe. Acts who had less long-term endurance included the Pozo-Seco Singers, the Left Banke and Sandy Posey.

It was an odd time when no Beatle records were in the survey. Sunshine Pop was in full swing with the Monkees, Gary Louis, the Mamas and Papas and The Lovin’ Spoonful all getting heavy hit line action. And the Beach Boys entered the chart this week with what would become their only Keener Hit Number One, “Good Vibrations.”

While Keener’s signature Motown sound had only one tune in the survey, The Four Tops’ “Reach Out” was on the way down, two of the three albums of the week were Motown products. Continue reading “Keener Today – October 17”

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Keener Today – October 16

Today in 1950, C.S. Lewis published “The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.” The first book in “The Chronicles of Narnia” series became a timeless classic has captured the hearts and imaginations of readers of all ages for over half a century and spawned a successful Disney film version in 2005. Beneath the surface lies a profound exploration of themes like morality, redemption, courage, and the battle between right and wrong. Children have been captivated by the magical world and adventures, while adults appreciate the profound themes and moral lessons. We’ve returned to the story again and again over a lifetime.

Notable:

Suzanne Somers
Suzanne Somers

Remembering Suzanne Somers – Suzanne Somers, known for her iconic portrayal of Chrissy Snow in “Three’s Company” and later for her successful health and diet business empire, has passed away at 76. She survived an aggressive form of breast cancer for over 23 years, according to her publicist. Her career took a memorable turn during contract negotiations in 1980 when she advocated for equal pay with her male co-star, John Ritter, leading to her dismissal from the show. Despite this setback, she continued to make her mark in the entertainment industry with numerous film, TV, and talk show appearances. She and her husband, Alan Hamel, transformed the ThighMaster into an iconic product through infomercials, amassing hundreds of millions in sales. She was also an accomplished author, with over 25 books to her name, many became bestsellers, focusing on themes related to the human body and aging. While some of her medical approaches faced controversy, her overarching message of sex positivity and its connection to overall well-being remains a significant part of her legacy Continue reading “Keener Today – October 16”