There are so many great films out there, and everybody has their favorites. For me, I like a movie that isn't too difficult to follow, has a good soundtrack, and has a solid storyline free of any frustrating major plot holes. I like everything from action movies to foreign art films, but as you'll notice in my top ten, comedy and animated ones tend to be my prefrence. Sometimes I just need a good chuckle, and other times I like to have my emotions stirred. 

When I first started doing these Thursday Top Ten blogs, I figured it would be an easy way to write about something everyone can relate to. I had no idea how difficult it would be to settle upon my choices for these, as I like what I like and what that is could be different on any given day. Naturally, I will forget to include some stuff or will change my mind on the order, but all in all it is a lot of fun! (Side note: should I be doing The Tuesday Top Ten? It rolls off the tongue better, I think). 

Well, here's the list for my ten favorite movies; are any of these on your list?

10. Zombieland

9. Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas

8. Hot Rod

7. The Simpsons Movie

6. Talladega Nights

5. The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie

4. The Fast and the Furious

3. Cars

2. Fight Club 

1. Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World

*Bonus!* WQMX Weeknight Host Eric Matthews' Top 5 Movies:

5. Halloween IV

4. Scream 

3. Dead Men Don't Wear Plaid

2. Mrs. Doubtfire

1. Airplane!

I am too hyped for the "Scott Pilgrim Takes Off" anime coming to Netflix November 17th. I've read and own the graphic novel series, I have played the video game, and I have watched the movie literally hundreds of times. If you've never seen Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World, my favorite movie, you can peep the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7wd5KEaOtm4 

Do you ever utilize A.I.? Are you fearful of the potential dangers of it? Personally, it's a yes to both of those, and with news of the WGA strike coming to an end this week, I figure it's a good time to put out a little commentary on the subject. 

Whether it's generated images or text, A.I. is here to stay, and my perspective is that it is a tool best used for the mundane as opposed to the creative. We often encounter new ideas and inventions which may seem scary at first, but to resist change purely from fear stands in the way of progress. The issue many of us hold with A.I. is its capability to replace authentic human artistry, and regarding the writer's strike, the concerns centered around protections against the technology. There's also big push towards more regulations with visual artists like painters who believe all artificially generated images are a form of copyright since they draw upon preexisting human creations. I'm not sure on that one. 

My brother recently showed me something that left me scratching my head in relation to this; there are A.I. episodes of popular animated shows such as South Park. The one we watched was weird, and everything from the cartoons to the script and even the voices was generated. The imposter episode wasn't very good, but it was coherent and nearly watchable. To me this means we are on the cusp of something huge in media, where everything from TikToks to major box office films can be produced with little to no human involvement. It is no wonder why these writers have felt threatened, but just because something can do their jobs for less money and quicker does necessarily not make it better. 

Regarding media, naturally, broadcast radio is similarly susceptible to the encroachments of artificial intelligence. Not long ago I read something about the very first A.I. radio host hitting the airwaves somewhere in here in the United States, and it gives me the ick! I'm not about it, but if it ends up putting on a good show there is certainly the possibilty that this may become a trend in stations nationwide. My priority as an on-air personality is to play the best music and connect with listeners, and in that regard alongside a multitude of other reasons involving community, uniqueness, and authenticity; I believe us flesh and blood hosts will always have an edge. 

I'm not infatuated with Elon Musk, but I came across a comment of his about the technology that really stuck with me. He essentially said that we need to proactively respond to the threats of A.I. instead of scrambling to react. Word! 

Ultimately, I'm happy for the WGA union as their resolution seems to be a win. I'm curious to see what the future holds for artificial inteligence and media, and despite being concerned I am not afraid. As the infamous Spiderman quote goes, "with great power comes great responsibilty," and I have faith that we can collectively draw a line and lay the framework for how this technology can help the greater good. Some people will lose jobs, just like the switchboard operators connecting calls in the telecommunications industry did to automation. We simply must understand and accept that new technologies also bring on new, different jobs. For now, don't sweat it! 

My good friend recently sent me some photos from 2016, and with them the memories flooded in. We were in West Virginia at his family's cabin out in the sticks riding quads and enjoying life to the fullest. I don't remember the exact make or model of ATV on which I rode, but I fondly recall how awesome it felt to be close to unstoppable on a well maintained 4x4. Whether it was a mud pit or a mountain, that thing just crawled through it all with ease, unlike the two-wheel drive quad I personally have now. It even had brakes!

This trip we took was basically the first time I had done anything of the sort; I had maybe been on a quad a couple of times, but never 'ffroading like we did. As a kid, I had a dirt bike and later a go kart, but never really went on any overlanding adventures. After the first ride I was hooked, and still regard riding four-wheelers as one of my all-time favorite activities. It's fair to say that this vacation in WV was likely a catalyst for me to buy my Honda a few years later.

From the trails to the "roads" even, the terrain in that area was pretty intense. I put roads in paranthesis because they were hardly more than flat dirt trails, and they lended themselves to some gnarly ripping speeds on the bikes. Leaving it in 2wd lead to some dusty rooster tails and sweet drifts, and by the time I left I was so much more comfortable operating the machine. That's not to say that all went smoothly, however.

I flipped the quad on the very first day we went out, within the first thirty minutes. All the veteran rider old guys we went with surely didn't let me live that one down, but thankfully both I and the ATV were okay to continue. I learned from that mistake and had an otherwise accident-free couple of days, but let me tell you, it's dangerous down there. At any given moment as you take on a narrow trail at a steep incline, a small turn of the handlebars in the wrong direction could result in a freefall and potential fatality. That risk is part of what made it fun, and we were sure to always wear helmets.

To wrap this up, I love riding. The trip I took back in 2016 is one of the best vacations I have ever been on, and I cannot wait until the next time I go overlanding. I felt on top of the world, both literally and figuratively, in the picture for this blog, and if you have ever been out like I was you know the feeling. My perfect trip would include riding powersports, a hot tub, some cold beverages, and fishing... how about you?

Country music legend Dolly Parton is set to release a new album Novemeber 17th, and let me tell you I'm hyped! After her induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, she has decided to go outside her typical format and put out some rock oriented music. She's collaborated on songs with some huge names like Elton John, Paul McCartney, Stevie Nicks, and many more. The album will consist of 21 cover renditions and 9 brand new original pieces for a healthy total of 30 songs. It's kind of a big deal. 

Information has been trickling out about the project since the announcement of the album, and just today I came across a newly released music video for one of the tracks, "What's Up?" The song's a smash hit from the early 90's sensation 4 Non Blondes, and the original singer/ songwriter Linda Perry accompanies Dolly in this remake. Did you know Lainey Wilson also covered this song in her latest and greatest album, Bell Bottom Country? Anyways, I have high expectations for Dolly Parton's Rockstar album coming out in less than two months, and here's a link to the video of her version of "What's Up" for you to check out! 

Dolly Parton - What's Up? (feat. Linda Perry) (Official Music Video) - YouTube

Disappointed is an understatement on this one. The car market in general is crazy as ever, and EVs are huge these days. VW is well aware of this, and with successes like that of the new Ford Bronco, it's prime time to bring back an old classic like the bus. 

According to Volkswagen, the "ID.Buzz" will arrive at U.S. dealerships sometime in 2024, and it's a very cool ride by all acounts. I'd drive one in a heartbeat. That's not the problem. The essence of the van has been destroyed if you ask me. That's because of the sticker price, 40k on the low end. The original van represented freedom, basic transportation, and affordability; and this is quite the stretch from those origins. As it is with most any brand new car these days (Jeep Grand Wagoneers are in the 100k range!?!) with dealership markup and preoder options, this will inevitably become a status symbol reserved for those with wealth beyond the typical American. It's gotten to the point where I'm not sure I will ever be in a position to buy anything but a used vehicle, and with what's new these days I don't think I mind! 

I love all sorts of pets from parakeets to goldfish and everything in between, but we all know a dog is man's best friend. I've never met a dog I haven't liked, just ones that don't like me, unprovoked. (Just let me love you!) This blog is part of a series in which I rank all sorts of stuff, and the purpose of it is to give you some insight into who I am and what I'm about. It's also a lot of fun to get some input on my lists by those who rank things differently, so let's get into it and determine if we see eye-to-eye on favorite breeds of pups! 

10. Miniature Pinscher

9. Great Dane 

8. Labrador Retriever

7. Basset Hound

6. Dachshund

5. Rottweiler

4. Husky

3. Chihuahua

2. German Shepard

1. Bloodhound

If there's one thing to know about me, it's that I love everything with wheels. Whether it's a skateboard, bike, tractor, or truck; if it's something you can ride, I'm all about it. I especially love powersports like ATV's, motorcycles, and go karts; I even have a retired podcast on them! 

I know my way around a garage and have fixed up my fair share of machines, but I am no mechanic. I was reminded this after attempting to fix up a snowmobile that had been given to me a while back. It was crashed and had not been started in a number of years, but I was optimistic. I had a moment of clarity about a week ago and made the decision that I was in over my head having taken a bigger bite than I could chew. 

I posted the sled online for sale or trade and asked to be sent offers. I got some random offers like mini bikes, tools, and cash, but what really caught my eye was this big two-seater go kart project. I had actually seen it in an ad prior, and did my best to hide my excitement, though I was stoked. I jumped on it, and the offerer and I met up at his place to initiate the deal.

I was looking for a kart project to build up because I have a spare engine waiting for transplant in the garage, but I had no idea just how big this thing was. It's a Yerfdog Spiderbox with a Honda four-wheeler front end welded on in a questionable fashion, and it has a ton of potential. There is no engine or brakes and a few of the steering components need modified or repaired, but all things considered it's a solid start. 

Had he seen the snowmobile in person prior to agreeing to trade, I don't believe this fellow with the kart would have gone for it. It was rough, but I did nothing to mislead or misrepresent; I'm not like that.  To say loading that sled onto his trailer was a challenge, is a definite understatement. We tried every hairbrained idea until simply yanking it up onto the trailer with the truck, aggressively. I was glad no one got hurt and quite happy to see that piece of junk go to someone who is likely better suited to do something with it. 

Of course I am ecstatic about my new buggy project, but I have been left scratching my head on what to do for the powertrain. I unfortunately cannot use the engine I have on deck as it lacks ample power for the application, so that's gone out the window. I considered scooping up a used motorcycle or four-wheeler motor, (especially one with reverse) but those can be a nightmare with wiring and especially fabrication. With the stock engine putting down about 8hp, any 250 or bigger would easily do the job and gears sure would be cool. 

Going back to the title of this blog, I now have a toss up on my hands. Option one is the motorcycle engine with an unknown amount of work put in to adapt it to the kart platform. I could find something with gears including reverse, but it won't come cheap or easy. Option two is equally if not more expensive, but hugely simpler. Harbor Freight has a 15.8hp Predator engine on sale right now for a decent price. That motor combined with an Amazon 40 series torque converter would set me back nearly $700. Everything else needed to make it go would probably be an additional hundred dollars. That's nothing to scoff at, but the advantages of this option have me tempted. 

Both motors would have an electric start as well as a pull start, and with that a battery. Either option could power lights and maybe a winch. The motorcycle engine would likely have a clutch which may hinder certain friends of mine from driving it and complicate the intallation, whereas the Predator would allow for some pedal to the metal simplicity. Maintence is another consideration, as Predator parts are as cheap as they come whilst motorcycle and quad engine parts vary in afforability. The biggest appeal of all for the Predator over the alternative however, is the warranty. Buying new from a retail store provides confidence, and with such an expensive investment I know I want that.

The biggest toss up is not even necessarily between those two options, but rather when/if to proceed with purchasing a powerplant. I could get a very nice mini bike for the same price, or any number of other things. I'm looking at getting a dog, updating some appliances around the house, and some other major purchases right now, but my desire to make this kart into a mini-RZR is overwhelming. If I'm going to do it, I want it built and ready to rip come wintertime. Maybe I'll call it a birthday present to myself, as that's coming up soon! The sale on the Predator ends on the last day of September, so I guess I have until then to decide. I'll keep you posted on my progress, and thanks for reading!

I love to fish, and yesterday I took my kayak to a little honey hole I know of to try to reach some areas I can't from the shoreline. It was raining a little bit at first, and I hunkered down in my El Camino to wait it out. As soon as it cleared up, I launched the boat and readied my pole. I'm an amatuer fisherman by all accounts but I am pretty sure it's a good time to go out, right after some showers. 

I did a little paddling and tried out this spot I have always had my eye on, to no success. I always see them smacking the top around there, but I suppose they weren't hungry for my nightcrawlers at that particular moment. I took my time around there and threw on an automotive podcast to entertain myself. 

I should mention that the lake I went to is the Nimisila Resovoir, my favorite local fishing place. I'll keep my little spot a secret, but there's hardly a bad place to go there. I've fished there my whole life and have caught some impressive fish over the years, but what always escapes me is a big bass. 

Well, I found out where they are at! After moving to a few spots with no luck, I made my way into a small cove with a bunch of weeds and algae. Looking towards the land, about a yard out from the shoreline I saw something BIG swimming. As I approached, I thought it was a snapping turtle or maybe even snake, but I soon realized there was a large tail pushing side to side. Not only that, but I saw two more of the same nearby and it clicked that I was somewhere special. 

No less than five enormous bass were feeding off the algae and smacking the top all around me. It was quite the spectacle. I was slightly uneasy on that little kayak thinking about what I'd do if I actually caught one, as I figured one of these monsters could just about pull me around the lake if my line didn't snap beforehand. My pole in general was another concern, as it was just my "old reliable" little rod and reel with a relatively weak strength of line. 

Of course I casted towards them, again and again. I've never seen fish so unresponsive to disturbances near them. I guess they were just too big to be concerned with predatory birds or just about anything, as they just kept munching on that murky green stuff. Now that I know where the hogs are at, I can't figure out how to catch 'em. 

Just like Hank Hill, I'm a diehard worm guy, but I think I need to switch it up. On the kayak I tried a lure or two but kept getting snagged, and I gave up quickly. I'm thinking some sort of weedless frog could maybe work. It's been way too long since I have shopped for some new supplies for my tacklebox, and I'd love some suggestions. 

Let's talk fishin' sometime, hit me up on the WQMX studio line! Call or text 330-370-2000 weeknights from midnight to 5am and let me know what's working for you; I'd appreciate some tips and advice. Remember: it's called fishing and not catching for a reason, and there's never a failed day out on the lake if you're soaking up the sunshine and enjoying nature. 

This past Saturday evening, Hardy played a sold-out show at the Covelli Center in Youngstown and blew the roof off the place! The energy between the artist and audience was unlike anything I have witnessed before, and I can now say that I get Hardy. I've always loved his music, but I get it now. I don't know if that makes sense, but I'm not sure how else to describe it. Lainey Wilson compared his performance to a WWE event and at first I was confused, but not now. 

Hardy's fans seem to be as intense as he is, in the best way. Every song was a jam, and his setlist impressed me in that he was able to sample his diverse catalog seemlessly. To play tunes like Radio Song and One Beer within the same act and have an equally warm reception from the audience is a feat. I still can't get Unapologetically Country As Hell out of my head, which was probably my favorite from his performance. 

Of course I can't talk about this concert without mentioning my favorite female country artist, Lainey Wilson. (Megan Moroney might be tied with her, but I digress.) I've been a huge fan of Lainey since she first hit the limelight, and fondly remember meeting her for the first time at our Bossom Buddies Benefit Conert 2022. She was just gaining traction in the charts at that point, and soon after exploded in popularity (rightfully so). She's just amazing, and her story of perservearance is inspirational to all. I love her Bell Bottom Country style and attire, and on Saturday she wore this super-cool hat with a feather coming out; it was a certified 'fit.

My favorite song of hers is a little ditty called Those Boots, off her latest album. She unfortunately did not play it, but I can understand why as it is one of her less popluar tunes and may not have fit in so well with the rest of the show. She did play all my other favorites however, and she even did a striking solo version of Never Say Never. It was so good. 

To see Lainey Wilson glow up from where she began to selling out huge venues touring with Hardy makes me so happy. I was content to see she has mantained the same band she toured with on the smaller stages. Her producer/guitarist dude with the bowler hat is a whole vibe; he and the rest of the band are quite talented. Just like Hardy, Lainey Wilson did not miss a beat and put on a stellar performance. 

I unfortunately did not catch the opener Dylan Marlowe, but it was a sort-of funny story why. I never drive out to the Youngstown area, and I'm not sure if I've even been there once. With that, I was unfamilar with the map and ended up going about fifteen minutes in the wrong direction once getting off the highway. Let me tell you, it was weird. There was a single road with no outlets for miles, with woods and industry on either side. Traveling down it I thought, "there's no way the tour busses went down this road: something's off," yet I proceeded still. 

I should have trusted my gut, as I ended up in this weird little town that seemed like the setting for a horror movie. There were a ton of houses, streets, and cars; and aside from a resturant/bar we passed on the outskirts of town, there was literally no activity. It was uncanny, and I could smell bonfires but saw none and nobody. I joked that the whole village must be at the Hardy concert, but seriously it was strange. I'm still a little creeped out from it. 

I did hear Dylan Marlowe perform a Jon Pardi tune he wrote, and Hardy sang a Morgan Wallen tune that he penned. Scott Wynn once told me that Hardy is an incredible songwriter who has had a hand in many a hit song, but I had no idea just how much he has written. He wrote every one of my favorite Wallen songs and so much more, and I bet you'd be shocked as well to discover the depth of his discography. I'd venture to claim that Hardy is the best country music songwriter of this era. I'd love to hear a rebuttal for that, but personally I can't think of anyone comparable. 

To wrap this long blog up, I just want to express how thankful I am to have my job here at WQMX and for all the experiences it has afforded me. It's not always glamorous, but there's no where else I'd rather be in my professional life right now than at the best dang radio staion in the whole wide world, Your Country 94.9 WQMX! Attending events we put on and interacting with listeners is one of the best parts about what I do, and if that sounds like something you'd be interested in, Rubber City Radio Group is looking for enthustiatic individuals to work part-time on our Street Team in promotions. I'll drop a link for more info on that below, and thanks for reading!

https://rcrg.net/street-team/

I love all things fall, and one of my favorite things to do during the season is to have a big fire under the stars at night. The heat from the flames mixed with the cooler air is just blissful. Whether it's at my place or elsewhere, aside from attending concerts there's hardly anything I would rather do on a Friday night with friends. 

There are at least three fire spots on my property, with two of them being in the yard and one in the woods. When we're having a decent sized get-together at the house, we tend to use the closest one which lies in the middle of the backyard. It's an awesome spot to watch the sunset and the stars at night, but I prefer my pit in the woods. It is as close as can safely be to my treehouse, and there is just a cool vibe back there. We'll ride tractors and four-wheelers back there and do some ripping if we're feeling the need to get up and move around. 

Not only am I the overnight host for WQMX, but I am also a huge fan of the station and all the music we play. You already know I'm cranking my speaker up as loud as it goes, streaming the station from my phone whenever I'm having a bonfire. You too can stream live any time anywhere here on WQMX.com, on our app, or with your Amazon smart speaker-just say, "Alexa, play 94.9 WQMX." 

This weekend, I hope you have a lot of fun and enjoy this pleasant weather while it lasts. There's fun stuff going on at the Dusty Armadillo with Sarah Kay, both Friday night and Sunday. Three big concerts are happening Saturday with sold-out Hardy/Lainey Wilson at the Covelli Center, Chris Cagle at the Dusty Armadillo, and Brandi Carlile at Blossom. Jason Aldean will also be hitting the stage at Blossom on Sunday evening, back again after his last show was rained out a few months past. Whatever it is you're getting into, live it up!