Bill Burr talks about having to evacuate his home during the fires, people commenting on how it all started and giving their opinions online, knowing how to fly a helicopter, how he reacts in an emergency situation, getting in touch with his emotions, friends from the east coast checking in on him, the type of shows and movies he watches with his kids, his new stand-up special “Drop Dead Years,” and making his Broadway debut in Glengarry Glen Ross.
Tim McGraw to Headline Historic Performance at the Iconic Field of Dreams in Iowa
Today, U.S. Concert Agency along with their ticketing partner, StubHub, announce the first-ever, all-day concert event at the legendary Field of Dreams in Dyersville, Iowa. Music superstar and 3x GRAMMY-Award winner Tim McGraw will headline this historic event on August 30, 2025. The performance will mark a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for fans to experience McGraw’s electrifying live show at one of America’s most iconic locations, and additional opening acts will be announced in the coming weeks.
Located on a picturesque 193-acre farm in Iowa, the Field of Dreams has become a symbol of American culture, drawing visitors from around the world to relive the magic of the 1989 film and celebrate America’s pastime. This concert is more than just a night of country music—it’s a unique celebration of history, family, and the spirit of baseball. Set on the same iconic field made famous by the movie, the event will also pay tribute to MLB legend Tug McGraw, Tim McGraw’s father, on what would have been his 81st birthday. Tug, who played for the New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies, left an indelible mark on the game, and his legacy will be honored in this unforgettable celebration. Fans can experience the magic of the Field of Dreams in a whole new way, combining the excitement of country music with a heartfelt nod to one of baseball’s greats.
In addition to the exciting concert announcement, USCA has partnered with StubHub as the Official Ticket Partner for the event. Starting on January 20, 2025, tickets will be available through StubHub’s platform, offering fans access to a variety of ticket options, including General Admission, VIP, and exclusive Home Run VIP packages. Pre-sales for the event will begin on January 20, 2025, with general sales launching on January 24, 2025.
“We are beyond excited to kick off this partnership with StubHub,” said Nick Abate, Founder of USCA. “With their world-class technology and reach, it will be easier than ever for fans to access tickets to this unforgettable event, as well as many more in the years to come. We always strive to curate memorable and impactful events, and this tribute to Tug McGraw’s legacy is no exception. It’s a huge moment not only for the fans but for Tim as well, and it’s just the beginning of something truly special.”
This concert marks the beginning of a multi-year partnership between USCA and StubHub, with plans for future events that will bring fans even more unforgettable live experiences. Through this collaboration, StubHub will help streamline ticket access for concertgoers, ensuring an easy and seamless experience for fans across the globe.
“We’re thrilled to partner with USCA to bring Tim McGraw’s performance to such a historic and beloved venue,” said Adam Budelli, Head of North America Partnerships at StubHub. “This event is going to be an incredible experience for both country music fans and baseball lovers, and we’re proud to provide fans with easy access to tickets through StubHub’s global platform.”
McGraw’s unparalleled career includes sales of over 103 million records worldwide, 47 number one radio singles, 19 number one albums and countless industry awards and accolades. He holds the record for second-most #1 albums in the U.S. just behind George Strait. His unique chart achievements include having three singles in the Top 20 of the radio charts on multiple occasions, as well as having two singles spend over 10 weeks at number one. He has brought to life some of the biggest hit singles of all-time, including “Live Like You Were Dying” and “Humble and Kind,” a message that continues to impact fans around the world, including a Spanish version sung by McGraw. He has routinely been cited as one of the biggest touring artists in the history of country music. As part of the host committee, McGraw welcomed the largest outdoor crowd ever to his Nashville performance at the 2019 NFL Draft. He also appeared in the NFL Tailgate Party for Super Bowl LII and the College Football Playoffs 2020. His latest EP release, Poet’s Resume follows the massive success of “Standing Room Only” whose title cut launched with the most first-week streams of any track in McGraw’s career and became his 47th career #1.
On-Sale Dates:
- StubHub Pre-Sale: January 20, 2025
- Event Pre-Sale: January 21, 2025
- General On-Sale: January 24, 2025
Ticket Options*:
- Home Run VIP: $499.99
- Dedicated entries and viewing deck
- VIP lounge with private bar & restrooms
- Complimentary small bites, non-alcoholic refreshments, and event merchandise
- Access to the movie site field
- VIP: $299.99
- Dedicated viewing area and entries
- Private bar & restrooms
- Access to the movie site field
- General Admission:
- Pre-sale: $69.99** | Regular: $99.99
- Access to the movie site field
**Limited supply; max of 6 tickets per order
*Taxes and fees apply.
For more information about tickets, visit www.USCA.live.
Middle School Band Brings Down the Church with Epic “Sweet Child O’ Mine” Cover.
Who needs a stadium when a middle school band can rock a church to its core? Drummer Jasper Hughes and his classmates nailed a Guns N’ Roses classic, proving holiday concerts can be anything but traditional.
How to Protect Your Home from Mold During Rainy or Humid Seasons
By Mitch Rice
Rainy and humid seasons bring fresh air, lush greenery, and… mold. Yep, the kind of mold that invades your walls, floors, and even your health. But here’s the good news: with the right strategies, you can keep your home mold-free even during the soggiest of seasons. Let’s dive into some practical, no-nonsense tips to help you win the war against mold when the weather turns wet.
Why Is Mold a Problem During Rainy and Humid Seasons?
Mold loves moisture. When the air is damp or heavy rainfall saturates your environment, your home becomes the perfect breeding ground for mold. It sneaks into damp basements, grows behind poorly ventilated walls, and even thrives in overlooked corners of your bathroom or kitchen. The result? Musty odors, unsightly stains, and potential health risks for your family. This is why mold remediation is a must if you’ve already spotted mold—but prevention is even better.
5 Actionable Tips to Prevent Mold During Wet Weather
1. Keep Humidity Levels in Check
Invest in a good dehumidifier to maintain an indoor humidity level of 30-50%. Mold can’t thrive in dry environments, so this is your first line of defense. Place the dehumidifier in moisture-prone areas like basements or bathrooms to keep the air crisp and mold-free.
2. Ventilate, Ventilate, Ventilate
Good airflow is crucial, especially in high-moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Use exhaust fans or crack open a window when cooking, showering, or running the dishwasher. If you live in a humid region, consider installing a whole-house ventilation system.
3. Fix Leaks Immediately
Got a leaky roof, pipe, or window? Don’t wait to fix it. Even small leaks can create the kind of damp environment mold thrives in. Inspect your home regularly for signs of water intrusion and address them ASAP.
4. Clean and Dry Flood-Prone Areas
If heavy rains lead to minor flooding in your home, act fast. Remove any standing water within 24-48 hours, and thoroughly dry the area. Use fans, wet/dry vacuums, and even professional mold remediation services if necessary to ensure no moisture lingers.
5. Use Mold-Resistant Products
Planning a renovation or just want to be proactive? Opt for mold-resistant drywall, paint, or insulation. These materials can act as a barrier, making it harder for mold to take hold in your home.
Bonus Tip: Regularly Inspect Your Home
Take a monthly walk-through to check for mold hotspots, like under sinks, around windows, and in the corners of your basement. The earlier you catch any signs of mold, the easier it is to tackle before it spirals into a bigger problem.
What If Mold Still Shows Up?
Sometimes, even your best efforts aren’t enough. If you do find mold, don’t panic. Professional mold remediation Idaho Falls services can safely remove it and restore your home to a healthy state. Remember, mold remediation isn’t just about removing the mold—it’s about addressing the root cause so it doesn’t return.
By staying vigilant and proactive, you can protect your home from the worst mold has to offer this rainy season. Because the only thing that should thrive in rainy weather is your garden, not mold!
Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.
Kelsie Watts to Make Her Broadway Debut as Queen Jane Seymour in SIX The Musical
Kelsie Watts, the powerhouse recording artist celebrated for her electrifying vocals and viral social media presence, is set to make her Broadway debut as Queen Jane Seymour in the globally acclaimed SIX The Musical. Remixing 500 years of historical heartbreak into a euphoric celebration of 21st-century girl power, SIX is the winner of 23 prestigious awards, including the 2022 Tony Award for Best Original Score (Music and Lyrics) and the Outer Critics Circle Award for Best Musical. Watts has captivated millions with her viral singing videos and soulful performances, amassing over 194 million views across social platforms. With 1.7 million TikTok followers and 1 million Instagram fans, she’s become a beloved figure for her empowering pop anthems. Now, her remarkable journey continues as she takes the stage in SIX, marking her Broadway debut while gearing up for exciting new music releases in 2025. The new Queens will begin performances on Wednesday, February 19, at the Lena Horne Theatre (256 W 47th St, NYC).
A few years ago, Kelsie was performing in a variety show on the Nashville Showboat, where her favorite number was “Desperado” by The Eagles. After one show, a woman in the audience handed Kelsie her card, encouraging a call about a casting opportunity. That woman was Roberta Duchak, musical director for SIX. Now, in 2024, the stars have aligned. “I’ll forever be grateful to Roberta for her friendship, guidance and her belief in me,” Kelsie reflects.
On joining the SIX cast, Kelsie shares, “Joining the Broadway Cast of SIX The Musical is absolutely mind blowing! I’ve wanted to be on Broadway since I was a little kid. But to be honest, I never thought it would happen. As an artist, I’ve chosen to express my creativity through tattoos, pop/rock music and little things like changing my hair color. Even though I studied opera and vocal performance, I believed these are things that excluded me from being in musical theater. I’m so grateful to say I was wrong. The Broadway world has accepted me with open arms just as I am. I am beyond ecstatic to take on the role of Jane Seymour.”
Born into a musical family in Lubbock, Kelsie Watts discovered her voice at just two years old. Encouraged by her talented parents, she honed her artistry performing in church, school plays, and later studying opera and commercial music at Belmont University in Nashville, where she began songwriting and creating music that launched her career.
Kelsie’s self-released music soon caught the attention of industry professionals, leading to her feature on AJ McLean’s (Backstreet Boys) single “Hurts to Love You” in 2020. Later that year, she wowed audiences on Season 19 of The Voice with her viral performance of Kelly Clarkson’s “I Dare You,” earning a spot on Team Kelly and millions of social media views.
Kelsie has since emerged as a dynamic independent pop artist. Her single “Live Out Loud,” produced by GRAMMY-nominated NicoTheOwl, became the theme for the Tokyo Sky Tree Global Campaign and streamed 24/7 during the Tokyo 2021 Olympics. In 2021, she released the empowering anthem “Look What You Missed” and the heartfelt ballad “I Can’t Say Goodbye,” written about the sudden loss of her brother to mental health struggles, aiming to support others in similar pain. In 2024 Kelsie released singles “After Midnight” and a duet with Nate Amor, “Forgetful,” which was written by the incredible Diane Warren. When not writing and performing, Kelsie can be found advocating for mental health and has worked with Didi Hirsch and the Not Alone Challenge to help spread awareness.
With an impressive list of accomplishments already under her belt, Kelsie Watts’ Broadway debut in SIX marks the start of an exciting new chapter for this powerhouse artist and songwriter. A rising force in the music industry, Kelsie Watts is undeniably one to watch.
5 Surprising Facts About Talking Heads’ ‘Speaking in Tongues’
When Talking Heads released Speaking in Tongues on June 1, 1983, they redefined how art-rock could dominate the charts and dance floors. From the infectious “Burning Down the House” to the heartfelt “This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody),” the record bridged avant-garde experimentation with commercial success. Here are five lesser-known facts about this groundbreaking album that highlight its innovative spirit and creative genesis.
1. The Art of the Limited Edition
The Speaking in Tongues limited-edition LP wasn’t just music; it was a museum-worthy piece of art. Designed by legendary artist Robert Rauschenberg, the packaging featured a clear vinyl disc enclosed in clear plastic, accompanied by three colorful plastic discs that created a collage effect. The design was so impactful that it earned Rauschenberg a Grammy Award for Best Album Package. Meanwhile, frontman David Byrne handled the standard album art, proving the band’s dedication to marrying music with visual art.
2. “Burning Down the House” Started as a Funky Chant
The album’s biggest hit, “Burning Down the House,” had unconventional origins. Chris Frantz was inspired by a Parliament-Funkadelic concert and started chanting “Burn down the house!” during a jam session. This chant morphed into the song’s title, while David Byrne refined the lyrics using his unique method of singing nonsense syllables until words clicked. Early drafts included quirky phrases like “Foam Rubber, USA” before arriving at the iconic chorus.
3. DIY Production After Parting Ways with Brian Eno
For the first time since More Songs About Buildings and Food, Talking Heads produced the album themselves, stepping away from longtime collaborator Brian Eno. While Eno’s influence had previously shaped their sound with complex polyrhythms, Speaking in Tongues leaned into simpler, groove-oriented structures. Tracks like “This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody)” showcased this shift, with a repetitive ostinato forming the backbone of the song—a stark departure from their earlier, denser compositions.
4. “This Must Be the Place” Is an Honest Love Song
“This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody)” stands out as one of Talking Heads’ most sincere tracks. Known for his abstract and cerebral approach, David Byrne embraced emotional vulnerability here, creating what he called “a love song made up almost completely of non sequiturs.” Its naive charm extends to the instrumentation: Tina Weymouth played guitar, Jerry Harrison handled bass on a Prophet synthesizer, and Byrne alternated between guitar and synth, experimenting in ways that defied traditional songwriting.
5. A Dance and Chart Sensation
While Talking Heads were rooted in new wave and art-rock, Speaking in Tongues achieved crossover success, even dominating the dance charts. Tracks like “Slippery People” and “Making Flippy Floppy” resonated with clubgoers, propelling the album to the No. 2 spot on Billboard’s Dance Chart for six weeks. Beyond its grooves, Speaking in Tongues became the band’s highest-charting album in the U.S., peaking at No. 15 on the Billboard 200 and earning platinum status in Canada.
Speaking in Tongues was a cultural milestone that balanced intellectualism with accessibility. From its Grammy-winning artwork to its chart-topping hits, Talking Heads proved that music could be both innovative and mainstream. Whether you’re grooving to “Burning Down the House” or reflecting on the emotional depth of “This Must Be the Place,” this record remains a testament to the limitless possibilities of creativity.
5 Surprising Facts About U2’s ‘War’
When it comes to iconic albums, U2’s War sits high on the list, not only for its powerful music but for the fascinating stories behind its creation. Released on February 28, 1983, this was the album that catapulted U2 into the international spotlight, showcasing their ability to merge raw emotion with political commentary. Here are five lesser-known facts about War that might surprise even the most dedicated U2 fans.
1. The Boy on the Cover Was Bono’s Friend’s Brother
The striking cover of War features a young boy staring directly into the camera, a face that has become synonymous with the album’s powerful themes. That boy is Peter Rowen, the younger brother of Bono’s childhood friend, Guggi. Rowen also appeared on the covers of U2’s Boy and Three, making him an integral part of the band’s early visual identity. The band chose his image to symbolize the emotional and psychological effects of war, rather than depicting physical violence.
2. “Sunday Bloody Sunday” Was Inspired by an Argument and a Bus Stop Encounter
One of the most celebrated protest songs of all time, “Sunday Bloody Sunday,” began as a guitar riff by the Edge, written after an argument with his girlfriend. Struggling with self-doubt, he channeled his frustration into the song. Later, a chance encounter at a bus stop with violinist Steve Wickham led to the addition of the electric violin, recorded in just half a day. This haunting violin part became one of the song’s most memorable elements.
3. Larry Mullen Jr. Was Convinced to Use a Click Track by Sly & the Family Stone’s Drummer
Drummer Larry Mullen Jr. was initially resistant to the idea of using a click track during recording, as he felt it restricted his style. However, a conversation with Andy Newmark of Sly & the Family Stone changed his mind. This decision resulted in tighter drumming and became a defining feature of the album’s sound, especially on tracks like “Sunday Bloody Sunday” and “New Year’s Day.”
4. “New Year’s Day” Was Originally a Love Song
Bono initially wrote “New Year’s Day” as a love song for his wife, Ali Hewson. However, the track took on a political tone after Bono was inspired by the Polish Solidarity movement. Its distinctive bassline, which Adam Clayton accidentally discovered while trying to play “Fade to Grey” by Visage, gave the song its unique energy. “New Year’s Day” went on to become U2’s first UK top 10 hit and remains one of their most performed songs.
5. Kid Creole’s Coconuts Made an Unexpected Appearance
The album’s eclectic sound owes a nod to the Coconuts, the backup singers for Kid Creole. While on tour in Dublin, they were invited to contribute backing vocals for the track “Surrender.” Producer Steve Lillywhite described the collaboration as a happy accident, one that added unexpected flair to the serious tone of the album.
War as a statement that cemented U2 as a force in both music and political discourse. Its boldness, creativity, and raw emotion continue to resonate decades later, proving that great music is timeless. Whether it’s the haunting violin in “Sunday Bloody Sunday” or the politically charged lyrics of “New Year’s Day,” War remains one of U2’s most defining works.
CAJ Fall 2024 Mentorship Program Matches 52 Journalists With Mentors
The Canadian Association of Journalists (CAJ) is pleased to announce that 52 early- and mid-career journalists (including this guy’s own Hannah Alper) have been successfully matched with mentors as part of the 11th round of its semi-annual mentorship program.
“Matching more than 50 journalists to be mentored by some of the best and most talented in our industry is a tremendous way to ring in a new year,” said Brent Jolly, CAJ president. “Journalists helping journalists develop new skills and techniques to help them succeed is a beacon of optimism that is at the core of the CAJ’s mission in 2025.”
Over the course of the next few months, mentees will work with mentors from across the country, mediums and platforms. Mentors had the option to select mentees for a full six-week individual or group mentorship, or to have a one-hour conversation. This allowed flexibility for mentors’ busy schedules, and allowed for more early- and mid-career journalists to participate in this round of the program.
The CAJ received a total of 107 applications for this round of the mentorship program. As a competitive program, applications were first evaluated by a panel of committee members and then shared with individual mentors. Mentors then made the final decision about which mentees they wanted to work with.
The mentorship matches for this round are:
- Shireen Ahmed – Columnist, CBC Sports
- Selsela Naseri – Presenter, Mawj TV
- Lauren Phillips – Education reporter, The Coast; Freelance journalist; OCUFA Higher Education Fellowship
- Drew Anderson – Alberta-Saskatchewan reporter, The Narwhal
- Emma Arkell – Freelance journalist
- Patricia Bitu-Tshikudi – Morning radio show host, ICI Manitoba
- Sorousheh Salman – Student, Toronto Metropolitan University
- Laurence Brisson Dubreuil – Video journalist, CTV News Montreal
- Emma Honeybun – Journalist and photographer, Canstar Community News
- Rachel Browne – Freelance journalist
- Hannah Alper – Student, Western University; Coordinating editor, Western Gazette
- Emma Jones – Recent masters graduate, Toronto Metropolitan University
- Darren Calabrese – Freelance photojournalist
- Keito Newman – Student, Soka University of America
- Adrian Ghobrial – Senior correspondent, CTV National News
- Adam Duffy – Student, Fanshawe College
- Mike Hager – B.C reporter, The Globe and Mail
- Robert Korotyszyn – Reporter, Western Wheel
- Emma Bainbridge – Student, McGill University
- Nicholas Hune-Brown – Executive editor, The Local
- Mayumi Ramos – Student, University of Toronto
- Asad Chishti – Casual reporter/editor, CBC North/Yukon
- Paul Hunter – Journalist, CBC News
- Yalda Sarwar – Student, Carleton University; Volunteer host/anchor, CKCU Radio
- Freshta Farhang – Publisher/editor-in-chief, Kharbanama News Agency
- Konnor Killoran – Student, Toronto Metropolitan University
- Godlove Kamwa – TV host, ICI Manitoba
- Caroline Samii-Esfahani – Freelance journalist
- Tamara Khandaker – Podcast producer, Al Jazeera
- Genevieve Sugrue – Student, University of Toronto
- Lucas-Matthew Marsh – Freelance journalist
- Meriem Nour – Student, Toronto Metropolitan University
- Adrian Lee – Opinion editor, The Globe and Mail
- Angelina Mazza – Freelance journalist
- Diary Marif – Journalist, Rabble
- Andrea Varsany – Freelance journalist
- Angus MacCaull – Student, University of King’s College; Freelance journalist
- Nalyn Tindall – Student, Toronto Metropolitan University; Features editor, The Eyeopener
- Kayla Kurin – Freelance journalist
- Geoff Leo – Investigative reporter, CBC News
- Julia Israel – Video journalist, CBC Newfoundland and Labrador
- Clara Loiseau – Journalist, Journal de Montréal
- Christopher Nardi – Parliamentary reporter, National Post
- Alexis Zhou – Student, McGill University; Freelance journalist
- Maggie Macintosh – Education reporter, Winnipeg Free Press
- Angela Capobianco – Digital broadcast journalist, Global News Halifax
- Cassidy McMackon – Reporter/editor, The Canadian Press
- Samira Mohyeddin – Founder, On The Line Media
- Azeeza Kagzi – Student, University of Ottawa; Broadcast news editor, The Fulcrum
- Colin Perkel – Retired journalist, formerly with The Canadian Press
- Patrick Sutherland – Executive director, The Ontarion Campus Newspaper
- Ariel Tozman – Student, Toronto Metropolitan University
- Saša Petricic – Senior foreign correspondent, CBC News
- Jack Sutton – Student, Fanshawe College; Writer/podcaster/host, FSU (The Interrobang Newspaper)
- Alexis Lapointe – Freelance journalist
- Aarti Pole – Network anchor, CBC News
- Shaaranki Kulenthirarasa – Student, Toronto Metropolitan University
- Sarah Rieger – News writer, WealthSimple Media
- Faith Tabladillo – Student, MacEwan University
- Lauren Anjema – Student, University of Western Ontario
- Manjula Selvarajah – National technology columnist, CBC Radio
- Arrthy Thayaparan – Digital producer, Thomson Reuters
- Ryan Persaud – Student, Humber College
- Matt Simmons – Journalist, The Narwhal
- Tori Fitzpatrick – Reporter/editor, CBC News
- Caroline Bellamy – Freelance journalist
- Donna Sound – Reporter, CTV National News
- Vanessa Tiberio – Student, Toronto Metropolitan University; Radio room reporter, Toronto Star
- Christian Zdravko – Student, University of Toronto
- Liz Sullivan – Deputy editor of visuals, The Globe and Mail
- Kai Wilson – Student, Western University; Photo and layout editor, Western Gazette
- Salim Valji – Calgary reporter, TSN
- Andrew Wilimek – Student, University of Ottawa; Co-editor-in-chief, The Fulcrum
- Connie Walker – Investigative journalist
- Mikayla Tallon – Student, University of Regina
- Dionne Phillips – Freelance journalist
- Marika Wheeler – Journalist, Radio-Canada
- Jules Bugiel – Journalist in residence, CKUT Radio
- Jen Zoratti – Arts reporter and columnist, Winnipeg Free Press
- Madison Taylor – Student, Queen’s University
Caley Watts Is Spotify’s Newest Indigenous Ambassador For January
Caley Watts, Cree singer/songwriter based in The Great Bear Rainforest, BC, is Spotify’s newest Indigenous ambassador for the month of January.
Growing up along the river banks, mountain ranges and rainforests that fill Nuxalk Territory, Caley’s music blends folk melodies heavily reminiscent of the beauty of her home. Her debut album River’s Daughter is set to be released later this year, and she’s been well on her way to climbing the charts with hits like “East Wind” and “White Buffalo”.
To celebrate the takeover, she’ll also be featured on a billboard in Toronto’s iconic Yonge-Dundas Square on January 24.

