The Learning Channel's (TLC's) "Trading Spaces" has become more than the cult favorite it was when is debuted in September 2000. A twist on the British "Changing Rooms," "Spaces" is one of the most popular cable shows each and every week. Why? Strong and good looking personalities and face it, most home owners love to think about remodeling but would rather dream about it by watching others do the work on television.
One of the show's most popular stars is carpenter Ty Pennington. Pennington comes to Milwaukee on Sun., March 30 for two appearances at the 2003 Realtors' Spring Show at the Midwest Airlines Center.
A self-proclaimed "Jack of All Trades, Master of None," he was recently named one of People Magazine's "50 Most Eligible Bachelors" and was listed in Entertainment Weekly's "It List."
Pennington will make two appearances at the Realtors' Spring Show at 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Sun., March 30 exhibiting his carpentry skills and answering questions. The household items he creates at the show will be auctioned off to show attendees with proceeds benefiting Habitat for Humanity. Ty will sign autographs for one hour after each presentation.
OMC caught up with Ty recently, he put down his hammer and answered a few quick questions.
OMC: What's Paige Davis like, give us three words that best describe her?
TP: Tenacious, talkative, time conscious.
OMC: Why is "Trading Spaces" so popular?
TP: We showcase a variety of styles and personalities, but mainly because it shows you what you can accomplish in 24-hours.
OMC: Where did you grow up, go to school?
TP: Atlanta, Georgia; went to a variety of art schools.
OMC: How'd you land on "Trading Spaces?"
TP: Frank (designer Frank Bielec) found me in a circus in Florida juggling cats.
OMC: One thing you'd change about the show, if you could?
TP: I'd like to spend more time with the homeowners.
OMC: Typical day?
TP: Chaos.
OMC: I need to remodel my kitchen, where should I start?
TP: Plumbing and floors.
OMC: What's up with Vern using candles in all his rooms?
TP: It's not only letting people know he is full of Feng Shui, but he is also burning the candle at both ends.
OMC: Coke or Pepsi?
TP: I'm a Coca-Cola man -- originally from Atlanta.
OMC: What do you know about Milwaukee?
TP: Bucks, Brewers and original Braves.
OMC: You have a four-hour car ride, what two CDs are in your player?
TP: Ween, Flaming Lips.
OMC: What's next for you?
TP: Writing a book, "Ty's Tricks of the Trade."
OMC: Where do you want to be in five years?
TP: Building anything from houses to furniture, and surfing everyday on some tropical island.
A life-long and passionate community leader and Milwaukeean, Jeff Sherman is a co-founder of OnMilwaukee.
He grew up in Wauwatosa and graduated from Marquette University, as a Warrior. He holds an MBA from Cardinal Stritch University, and is the founding president of Young Professionals of Milwaukee (YPM)/Fuel Milwaukee.
Early in his career, Sherman was one of youngest members of the Greater Milwaukee Committee, and currently is involved in numerous civic and community groups - including board positions at The Wisconsin Center District, Wisconsin Club and Marcus Center for the Performing Arts. He's honored to have been named to The Business Journal's "30 under 30" and Milwaukee Magazine's "35 under 35" lists.
He owns a condo in Downtown and lives in greater Milwaukee with his wife Stephanie, his son, Jake, and daughter Pierce. He's a political, music, sports and news junkie and thinks, for what it's worth, that all new movies should be released in theaters, on demand, online and on DVD simultaneously.
He also thinks you should read OnMilwaukee each and every day.
