Category: Uncategorized

  • A Joyful Bus Stop Encounter: Thumbs Up for Music (and Dusty Springfield)

    At the bus stop, a person enjoys the sun and waits for the bus while carrying groceries and beer. They meet another man, “Sandals,” and an older man, “DJ Grandpappy,” who plays music. After sharing thumbs up, they bond over the song’s identity, revealing it to be Dusty Springfield’s “Son of a Preacher Man.”

  • Finding Joy in Frigid Days: A Personal Story

    The author reflects on an unusually cold April morning, reminiscent of January, and the strange disconnect between seasons. Despite the weather, nostalgia and moments of joy emerge, especially when witnessing a determined little girl who embodies hope and spirit. The narrative intertwines everyday life, weather frustrations, and poignant memories.

  • Affordable Hearing Aids: Financing and Assistance

    Hearing aids can be costly, often ranging from $2000 to $6000, and financial assistance through Medicare or Medicaid is typically unavailable. Various financing options exist, including health savings accounts, credit cards, and subscription programs like Phonak Freedom. Audiologists can assist in finding suitable financing options and resources.

  • Billy Bragg’s Unforgettable Toronto Concert in 1991

    In this post, George Perry recalls a 1991 Billy Bragg concert in Toronto, highlighting Bragg’s witty rants and topical lyric changes, including a nod to Wayne Gretzky. He also discusses the minimalist opening set by Disposable Heroes of Hiphoprisy and emphasizes the importance of paying musical heritage forward.

  • Deja Voodoo all over again! Gerard Van Herk at The Horseshoe Tavern in Toronto Sept. 28, 2024

    Deja Voodoo, a Montreal-based two-piece band active in the 80s, featured Gerard van Herk and Tony Dewald. They were known for their minimalist sound and prolific songwriting, producing short albums filled with numerous tracks. After the band split, van Herk became a professor while Dewald was a notable brewmaster until his recent passing.

  • Unexpected Encounter: A Harpist on the 11 Bus in Toronto

    The writer recounts a Sunday outing on the 11 bus in Toronto for advance voting and encounters a quirky harpist, nicknamed “Harpeux,” who engages passengers with music and French conversation. Despite appearing eccentric, possibly with mental health issues, his presence prompts reflections on life, art, and the unknown.

  • A 20 oz. pint for yourself or 20 Meals for the Hungry? – Give $10 to the Kitchener-Waterloo Food Bank

    The CKWR radio station in Canada plays alternative music, and on holiday Mondays, they have an all-request program hosted by Pete Fowler to support the local community. During the show, he encouraged listeners to donate to the Food Bank of Waterloo Region, which I did. I also learned about ways to maximize the impact of…

  • The Passenger: A song so good that not even Hasselhoff can ruin it

    A friend shared David Hasselhoff’s cover of Iggy Pop’s “The Passenger,” urging me to appreciate it. Originally from the 1977 album “Lust for Life,” the song reminded me of Paul Westerberg’s wit during an interview, where he humorously expressed a desire to have written “Happy Birthday,” showcasing the universal appeal of great songs.

  • Forced Fun is Never Fun.

    The author responds to the idea of incorporating play into the workplace, criticizing activities like meme creation and themed plays as forced and unproductive. They argue that genuine fun arises organically and can be incentivized, referencing the success of Grammarly’s engaging approach. The post emphasizes the importance of intrinsic rewards over prescribed enjoyment.

  • Baileys has delicious copy, too!

    The post discusses a LinkedIn-triggered response to negative reactions about Baileys’ ad copy. It argues in favor of the copy, citing its personal engagement, immediate impact, and relevance to the target audience. The author draws parallels to Carlsberg’s successful ad campaign and emphasizes the importance of knowing the audience. The post effectively conveys enthusiasm for…