IS THIS ON? - Broadcast on KMKR (99.9 FM/Tucson)

Dave and Phil describe their new monthly political comedy show, "Laughing Liberally" a mix of stand-up with desk pieces, sketches, news and improv. Phil recalls the history of the show which began in Tucson in 2011 at various locations from Sky Bar, Plush, FlyCatcher, and Club Congress. The newest version of the show will be hosted at the Tucson Improv Movement (TIM) and will feature the improv troupe "Ballot Babes" who provide a fresh and custom made style of lampooning. The opening show featured long time Arizona Star Editiorial cartoonist, Dave Fitzsimmons and Mo Urban, voted Best Comic in last year's Tucson Weekly poll. Dave and Phil host the show and provide political news with a twist of hilarity plus timely newsmaker interviews. Plus we look at the Tucson Comedy scene and review the new Adam Sandler Netflix film.

Former Mayor Rudy Guliani joins Dave and Phil in studio to discuss his indictment in the State of Georgia. Plus ITO Investigates has come into posession of the black box recording from the Russian plane crash which killed Yevgeny Prigozhin. Dave and Phil play it live on air and speculate if there could their be foul play? Plus we look at an unusual new "pay for play" opportunity for comics.

Dave and Phil are joined by ITO's 3rd Wednesday of the month host Roxy Merrari as we take a look at the comedy open mic scenes in nearby cities including Phoenix, Los Angeles, San Diego, and Las Vegas. Dave gives us a heads up on special days coming up in August. Plus, Art Fern shares his thoughts on the Barbie film craze and explores the trend toward creating films around our favorite children's toys.

Please leave your written thoughts in celebration of the life of Simon (the bald) Goldstein. We will read them on the next "IS THIS ON?" on July 12...

ITO celebrates the life of local comic icon Simon (the bald) Goldstein who passed away at age 83. He was a fixture at LAFFFs Comedy club and always a crowd favorite. His rapid fire delivery was a tribute to borscht belt comics of yesterday. Here's a link to a recent article about Simon published in the AZ Jewish Star...

https://azjewishpost.com/tag/simon-the-bald/

Dave and Phil welcome friend of the show legendary actor Al Pacino, age 82, who proudly announces that he and his girlfriend Noori Alfalla, age 29, are expecting a child. Our conversation reveals racy details of the night of conception. Plus we review the new Lorne Michaels' Peacock series, "Bupkis" starring Pete Davidson and a stellar cast of stars including Joe Pesci. We convene a session of the ITO Book Club with a summer reading selection from Senator Josh Hawley's new book, "Manhood: The Masculine Virtues America Needs". Really...we're not kidding.

Tucson comedian Jerrod Martin joins Dave and Phil in the studio to talk about the local comedy scene. Hear directly from the man about to be roasted for his 40th birthday this Saturday @ 6 PM at the Music Box on 6951 E, 22nd St. Plus, ITO reviews the new Netflix special from John Mulaney and also updates the status of the Monty Python Spamalot film.

ITO pays tribute to the Spark Project open mic hosted by our good friend Ernie Celeya as they prepare to host their final show on Friday, May 12 @ 7:00 pm. Dave and Phil encourage the Tucson Comedy Community to come out and hang out with Ernie. ITO welcomes back Prince Harry as he returns from a rather brief appearance at his father's Coronation. The Duke 0f Sussex spares no punches as he rails on the Royal family. Plus we review at the Vice TV series "The Dark Side of Comedy" as we look at the sad but true personal struggles that many top comedians have faced.

President Joe Biden drops by the studio to follow up on his 2024 candidacy announcement done by video release. Mr. Biden shares other release ideas that were considered but not used. Dave and Phil talk about the new baseball rules. Plus, ITO gets a job application for the new commentator position from a recently available candidate...Tucker Carlson.

Dave and Phil go back in time to search for answers to today's complex political questions and seek out the wisdom of America's third President, Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson offers some terse criticism of current American politics and shares his interpretation what the founding fathers intended regarding guns and the second amendment. We take a look at the new "Roast of Bert Kreischer" special produced and hosted by Whitney Cummings on the "Only Fans" platform. Phil shares his thoughts on the recent Chicago Mayor election.

Dave and Phil discuss the World Baseball Classic and look forward to the start of the baseball season. We review audience reaction to last show's visit from Gov. Ron DeSantis and his verbal exchanges with Donald Trump following the publication of his new book. Also, we review the Academy Awards and welcome special guest and friend of the show, Elvis Presley who dropped by to share his disapointment at the lack of recognition for the 2022 feature Elvis with Austin Butler.

Dave and Phil welcome Florida Governor Ron DeSantis to discuss his new book, "The Courage To Be Free".  Listen is as we probe Gov. De Santis on cancel culture, Disney, and his future plans for higher office.  Plus we review the newest Mel Brooks and friends film, The History of the World, Part II just released on Hulu with a star studded cast and many surprises.

ITO welcomes Tucson comic Cory Lytle who tells us all about his two new open mic nights at Cheba Hut and at Chicago Bar. Cory shares his insights on being a show runner from his previous experience with his long running mic at House Of Bards.  Dave and Phil also welcome President Joe Biden who stops by the studio with political consultant James Carville to discuss the President's State of the Union address.  

IS THIS ON? welcomes Tucson comedian, actor and writer Ron Reid to the studio for a lively discussion of all things comedy.  Ron traces his career from standup in NYC to Seattle and stops in between.  In addition to standup Ron has written, produced and acted in a feature 1990s length film, "The Montana Run" which is currently available on You Tube.  These days Mr. Reid runs a successful booking agency for comedians primarily performing on cruise ships.  Hear great insights from a man who was done it all in the world of comedy.

"IS THIS ON?" begins 2023 with highlights of the 139th ANNUAL TUCSON NEW YEAR'S DAY PARADE.  Join Dave and Phil directly from the parade route down Fourth Avenue as they review floats, marching bands and the food ad fun court.  Plus, many celebrities stop by the reviewing stand to chat.  It's the Old Pueblo's social event of the year and you have a front row seat.  We also talk about Hari Kondabolu's recent show at 191 Toole.  

Dave and Phil interview comedian Hari Kondabolu before his performance at 191 Toole on December 19.  Hari shares his insightful political comedy roots and tells us all about the making of his ground breaking documentary "The Problem With Apu".  Plus we have a holiday visit with the King of Rock & Roll.  Staff announcer Art Fern previews seasonal specials at Craycroft Tatoo Removal.

Dave and Phil discuss a few of the big name comics coming to Tucson in December, Hari Kandabolu (scheduled to appear on ITO 12/14) and Jim  Gaffigan with some cuts from their recorded comedy.  Dave makes his 2023 predictions.  We preview the announced guest hosts for the upcoming SNL holiday season.  an ITO Investigates exclusive, probes the recent controversial Mar-A-Lago dinner Donald Trump held with the entertainer formerly known as Kanye West and white supremicist Nick Fuentes.    

Dave and Phil discuss a new comedy documentary in the works about John Candy and a new podcast series with JB Smoove about ground breaking black comedians.  Sylvia Remington provides an Open Mic report.  With the 2022 elections only a month away we sit down democratic strategist James Carville to project results.  Plus we provide equal time to conspiracy theory giant Alex Jones to discuss the huge civil judgement against him (you may want to turn the volume down).

"IS THIS ON?" welcomes Stephanie Lyonga, Tre Farrington and Coy Johnson to the studio to chat all about the "What's Up...." show on Saturday, September 10 @ the Screening Room @ 7:00 pm.  We talk all about Stephanie's process for crowd work in her act and Tre Farrington tells us about how they've incorporated music into the show.  Coy Johnson will host the event.  ITO staff announcer Art Fern drops in to tell us about our generous support from Craycroft Airlines.  Plus we share news of the 10 minute Open Mic at Spark Collective on Friday, September 9.  

https://www.eventbrite.com/.../whats-up-muth-tickets...

Dave and Phil look at the Fall TV Preview for the new season and recall what a huge deal the Fall TV Preview once was.  We look at comic and actress Aubrey Plaza's new film, "Emily the Criminal".  With the 2022 mid term elections around the corner we sat down with Senator Bernie Saunders for his thoughts on the democracy, classified documents, cole slaw and more.  We preview local shows for the weekend from Unscrewed to Catalina and more.

ITO welcomes local favorite Charles Ludwig to the studio.  Ask any comedian in Tucson who makes really them laugh and they'll always say Charles Ludwig. Learn all about how Charles attended Catalina High School and became a part of the Tucson comedy scene.  Dave and Phil join the celebrity press junket for Indiana Jones 5 and chat with legendary actor Harrison Ford.  Plus we bring news of the Emmys including the announcement of this year's new host. Tune to find out and have some laughs.

IS THIS ON?  (ITO)  is a weekly comedy broadcast of KMKR (99.9 FM) Tucson, Arizona which airs at 9:00 pm (MT).

ITO is all about the open mic comedy scene in Tucson as we meet local comics Sylvia Remington and Jess Sweeney who tell us all about the new Monday night mic at Bumsted's.  We update the open mic weekly calendar.  Dave gets ready to ring in August with a list of special days.  Plus, ITO Investigates reveals newly released audio from the British documentarian, Alex Holder who chronicled the Trump family activities during the January 6 insurrection.  

Last night on ITO...We were joined by the ever-wonderful multi-multi-hyphenate Katie Popiel, Rudy Giuliani takes us inside the White House--to the janitor's closet where he's been sleeping, and Phil voices his disdain for prank shows and radio's Morning Zoo.

#IsThisOn

#ITOInvestigates

#WhereverFinePodcastsAreSold

Local comic Ashley Tappan joins Dave and Phil to promote her upcoming headline gig on Friday, July 1 at the Screening Room.  Ashley tells us all about her comedy journey from her roots in upstate New York to Tucson by way of Second City Improv training in Chicago.  Ashley energetic and refreshing observations are always insightful and hilarious. ITO Investigates uncovers a preview of the documentary footage of the Trump family behind the closed doors of the White House in the days leading up o January 6.  Plus, Dave and Phil review the ne HBO George Carlin documentary.

(...ITO apologizes for some audio feedback issues at the start of the show)  

Dave and Phil welcome local Tucson favorite Ernie Celaya who tells us all about the comedy shows he produces with the Spark Collective.  It was a pleasure talking trash literally and figuratively with Ernie one of the most liked figures on the Tucson Comedy scene.  Ernie hosts several shows a month at Spark Collective which provides Tucson comics a very welcoming environment and generous time slots.  Next up is Saturday, May 25:

https://www.facebook.com/events/404372548358041/?ref=newsfeed

As part of their community service release conditions, David Wayne Fitzsimmons and Elliot Glicksman have been ordered to appear on “IS THIS ON”.  Join Dave and Phil as we welcome these two giants of the Tucson comedy scene to our KMKR studio to talk about their new project, "Return of the Sweatlodge".  Elliot and Fitz tell tales of the early Tucson comedy scene and share behind the scenes stories of their annual "Old Pueblo Radio Hour" holiday specials.  Elliot shares the latest news about his work with the Tucson Jazz Festival.  It's one podcast that you'll want to share with friends who love the Tucson comedy scene.

For "Return of the weatlodge" TX: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/return-of-the-sweatlodge-tickets-324251233167?fbclid=IwAR0HRIOSX_CcjxPULSOoSeU_1LBv5TUHY-tZ3udqRJIdWmvzhqoZgzIh_I4

Dave and Phil open the show with Cuban cigars and a discussion of Phil's recent trip to Havana.  The ITO traveling mic visits with Cali comic Rajh Kirch who tells us about various shows he produces in San Diego and LA.  We review the new Taiki Watiti HBO comedy series "This Flag Means Death" starring SNLs Leslie Jones.  Plus a preview of Unscrewed Theater's "Friday Night After Dark" variety show.  

All of the world saw President Trump's video message to the "legitmate political discoursers" at the Capitol.  New revelations reveal that there were several attempts at recording the message.  ITO Investigates uncovers the details of these previous recordings.   Don't miss this history making moment.  Plus we shre our thoughts on the recent sad passing of Louie Andersen and Howard Hesseman.  We look at important days in February and more.

IS THIS ON? Dave and Phil review the new Aaron Sorkin film, "Being The Ricardos" which chronicles the making of the classic TV sitcom "I Love Lucy".  ITO looks at the top sitcoms of all time.  Plus a look at important days coming up in January.  

Dave and Phil welcome Tucson comic and improvisor Rich Gary to the show live to talk about his upcoming projects including classes at The Tucson Improv Movement and Keep Tucson Sketchy shows.  Learn about Rich Gary's comedy journey and enjoy his infectious, positive on-stage style.  ITO Investigates does a post Thanksgiving wellness check in with Rudy Giuliani.  Dave looks at important calendar days in December.

Kenny Schied of Gratitude Productions stops by the ITO studio to talk about the Halloween Spooktacular celebration Saturday, Oct. 30 at Catalina Craft Pizza in Catalina.  The FREE show begins at 4pm with music, comedy and more.  ITOs Dave and Phil don't just talk about comedy...we're both on the show!  Plus, ITO Investigates finds Rudy Guiliani at the Williard Hotel in DC.  Art Fern drops by and more.

Dave and Phil review the new Dave Chappelle Netflix special, "The Closer" and talk about some of the recent controversy about it's release. As the new James Bond film "No Time To Die" is released we look at Bond theme songs over the years. Plus Dave and Phil talk about the upcoming show at Tucson Improv Movement as they prepare to hit the stage.  

Katie Popiel returns to IS THIS ON to tell us all about the new Red Herring Puppets production as well as other projects in the works including White Christmas.  Phil and Dave consider which comic greats deserve a bio pic and who should portray them.  Plus a look at special days coming in October.

Dave and Phil visit with Allana Erickson-Lopez and Cy Barlow who tell us about all of the wonderful events happening at Unscrewed Theater including improv shows and classes plus a brand new Friday Late Night variety show.  We share thoughts on the passing of Ed Asner.  ITO friend Al Pacino wanders by the studio on his first visit outdoors since the pandemic.  Tune in to find out the latest on the the Tucson improv and standup comedy scene.

Dom DiTolla, a local Tucson comedy favorite drops by to share BIG NEWS about his move to Nashville.  As we wish Dom all the best he shares his comedy journey in the Old Pueblo from open mics to headlining.  Plus, Dom brings along his own cast of characters from Robin Williams to his alter ego, the ravishing Dominique.  Don't miss this chance to say farewell to a Tucson treasure.   

We check in with comedy road warrior Will Abeles as he passes through Tucson again to host at Laffs this weekend.  Find out first hand what getting back on the road is like post pandemic.  ITO Investigates uncovers another day of cell phone messages from the seized phone of Rudy Giuliani.  Dave shares some ideas for speeding up baseball.  Chit chat about new mics and showcases about town.

Comedy is springing up all over Tucson!  Dave and Phil take a look at all the new showcases and returning open mics in the Tucson area post pandemic.  We look at the CNN documentary "The Story of Late Night".  ITO Investigates reveals more recorded messages from Rudy Guliani's cell phone messages.

ITO returns to the beautifully remodeled KMKR studios for the first time in over a year.  We look at Special days in May.  Dave and Phil review highlights of the Oscar awards and take a deep dive into the comedy and film careers of the hilarious Lucas Brothers.  ITO Investigative Reports uncovers the voice mail messages from Rudy Guliana's cell phone which was seized by the FBI.  

ITO takes a look at Tucson Comedy Open Mics that are currently operating.  Dave and Phil visit with a sometimes awake Al Pacino to discuss the Golden Globes controversy.  We remember the late Patrice O'neill and review a new documentary about him.  NuPBIcbRHxmlRAfGzf4W

Dave and Phil welcome Ted Cruz back from Can Cun along with mean thoughts on the passing of Rush Limbaugh.  A visitor from the East pays tribute to Black History Month.  News of a free weekly on-line comedy event Girls Night In and IS THIS ON welcomes a new sponsor Craycroft Airlines.

Dave and Phil are back for our first live show of Season Two with ITO new staff announcer formerly host of NBCs Tea Time Movie, Art Fern.  Art shares memories of his Tonight Show days and looks ahead to working on IS THIS ON?  We scour the the Super Bowl commercials for comedy and review any costume malfunctions.  Plus we preview special days in February.

Dave reviews special days in October; James Carville predicts the 2020 election results; Dr. Tony Fauci gives an update on the coronovirus task force.  Plus news of a commemorative Presidential chess set.

Dave and Phil share some of the funniest moments of 2020 from tv, film and podcasts.  We celebrate Ali Musa as Tucson Weekly's selection for local comic of the year.    Plus we highlight some stand up special gems of 2020 including Sara Povitsky and Nattalie Palamides as Nate.  

Dave and Phil look back at significant events from the year 2020.  We also take a look back at the time in 1968 when Harry Belafonte hosted the Tonight Show and how it all connected with the Chicago 7 trial and reminds us of current events.  Plus, Dave almost does his Truman Capote impersonation.

Dave and Phil share Thanksgiving memories including a special look back at that fateful day in 1963 when JFK was assassinated.  We remember comedian Vaughn Meader and his landmark "First Family" record album.  Plus, we look at the newly released documentary about the late John Belushi and a new HBO show for Conan O'brien.

Freshly brewed politcal humor and analysis with Dave and Phil as they review Joe Biden's journey to President-Elect with Democratic strategist James Carville.  Plus , by way of seance, we contact the spirit of Richard Nixon who offers Trump his advice on moving forward.  A look at special days in November and much more.

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Hail to the chief...President Trump calls into the show.  Dave does a deep historical dive into the many comparisons of Lincoln and Trump.  A sneak peek into the new Borat film.

Dave and Phil take the 2000 decade quiz.  A preview of special days in October.  Plus, James Carville on debate prparation.  Your chance to help select Trump nicknames for Joe Biden to use against the Donald.

Dave and Phil are joined by political strategist James Carville who offers Joe Biden potential nicknames to call Trump during the upcoming Presidential debates.  Dave reviews special days in September and we mourn the passing of Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Tom Seaver.

Dave Margolis and Phil Gordon review highlights of the convention including the attempted lighter moments from host Julia Louis Dreyfuss.  Plus, an ITO exclusive interview with former President Bill Clinton who discusses his plans for DNC week.  Arizona comedian Stuart Preston performs stand up on the ITO Clean Comedy stage.  More Presidential firsts and an inside look at Dave's dna.

Dave and Phil visit with America's favorite cardboard fan, Jerry Delgado; Dr. Anthony Fauci calls in from an undisclosed location; and ITO reviews the brand new Comedy Central special by Ester Povitsky.

IS THIS ON?

On the next IS THIS ON Podcast with Phil and Dave, we chat with Dr. Murray Wilensky, who administered the Cognitive Assessment Test to Donald Trump…

PHIL: Did the President really answer “Person Woman Man Camera TV”?

DR WILENSKY: That’s right, Phil. Unfortunately, the question we asked was “What’s half of six?”

Plus, James Carville's diary and we look at comedy and baseball and therefore Bob Eucker...Play ball!* * * * * * *

Check it out wherever fine podcasts are sold! https://spoti.fi/331Emn0

IS THIS ON?

Join Dave Margolis and Phil Gordon with our special guests Bob Dylan and Dr. Anthony Fauci.  

IS THIS ON? S1, EP 11 - recorded July 4, 2020 on KMKR 99.9 FM/Tucson, AZ

 We introduce a new feature--Updated Nursery Rhymes!

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Little Jack Horner hung out on the corner

But he refused to mask it

Little Jack Horner is back in the corner

That’s where they placed his casket

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Join Dave Margolis and Phil Gordon as we celebrate Carl Reiner, look at Special Days in July, and dip into James Carville's Dirty Tricks Diary! There's something for everyone Wednesday night on IS THIS ON?

Let's turn back the clock to January 1,  2020 for highlights of a fun event...the 137th Annual Tucson New Years Day Parade.  Phil and Dave are on the sidelines to report on the activities.  Visits from celebrity guests include President Jimmy Carter; Senator Bernie Sanders Al Pacino, and Sean Connery.