The New Canadian Street Team

For those of you who don't know I'm something of a supporter of Canadian Arts and Culture. Along with publicbroadcasting.ca I run Facebook group for CBC Radio 3 TV (R3TV), the CBC Radio 3 Sessions (also a page for that one), a group for the new CBC Radio 2, a group for upcoming Events in Toronto (there's a page for that one too) - then there's Friends of the CBC, the somewhat related Save CBC News and the (hopefully temporary) Against the City of Ottawa's Arts Cuts I also run a number of social and political groups but I won't go into that now.

Awhile ago, to address the lack of exposure that many Canadian artists get I started thinking about small things that people could do that would have an impact - things that didn't take alot of time or effort. I created the groups Boost: Canadian Film and Television where once a week (ish) I send out a trailer or clip that people watch and rate (driving up it's popularity on YouTube and making it more visible. Boost: Canadian Music is essentially the same (except I send out music videos).

The latest in this line is Street Team Canada - on this group I'll send out tour dates and people are asked to (when an artist is coming to their city) print and put up a poster or two or three in places they go anyway - work, school, their local pub or coffee house, their bus stop etc., If enough people do that and we can bring a few extra people to each of their shows we can help make touring a little closer to profitable for Canadian talent.

So far the response has been good and there are people who aren't in Canada offering to put up some posters for Canadian artists touring abroad. If you have a few extra minutes a week and a printer - sign up here.

Back to School Time for Tories

After listening to the Harper Government, it's representatives and supporters the only thing I can suggest is that they all go back to school. Things like simple math, logic problems and civics all seem to be lost on them.

Harper claims that Dion does not have the right to form a government without an election but, under a parliamentary system, he most certainly does - if he can put together a coalition of other parties strong enough to outvote the minority Conservatives.

Harper's supporters claim that this is a (I kid you not) 'coup d'etat' , demonstrating that they don't know what that means. A coup is a military overthrow of the government.

The same supporters claim that the will of the Canadian people is being subverted but only 37% voted for Harper. That means that 63% voted for other parties. If, in a minority situation, the government is so bad at compromise that they can't appease any of the other parties, those parties (representing 63% of the electorate) may band together and put forward a more democratically popular agenda.

Harper and his supporters claim that they are being forced to subsidize parties they don't like, but under the current system a party gets $1.95 for each vote they get. So each person is subsidizing the party they vote for and only the party they vote for. This insures that the popular support of the electorate is more important than the support of interest groups, large corporations and the very wealthy. Apparently this doesn't sit will with Conservatives.

Mr. Flaherty claims that the government is running a balanced budget, but in order to achieve that they have to sell 10 billion dollars worth of government assets. The government paid small fortunes for those assets and would be selling into a seriously depressed market. Does buy high sell low sound like good economics? Also remember that when Mr. Flaherty was working for Mike Harris the incoming McGuinty government was told that the books were in balance, only to find on taking office that they were several billion dollars in the hole. Sadly the Conservative finance minister doesn't even seem to have basic math skills.

It is time for conservative supporters, their party and their representatives to take a break from politics until they get a firm grasp on basic math, civics, parliamentary government and democracy.

Parkdale Street Writers Launches Tuesday

Emily Pohl Weary's annual workshop for young writers kicks off again this Tuesday:

Free workshops for young writers led by kick-ass local authors, comics artists, filmmakers, hip hop poets, and street artists. NEW PROGRAM STARTING DEC 2, 2008!

What will we do?
* Write about real life
* Produce song lyrics and poems
* Create our own comics
* Interview people
* Find and make art
* Publish our work
* Choose other kinds of writing

Work directly with fabulous authors and artists!

DATES/TIMES
Every Tuesday, from 4 pm to 6 pm.
December 2, 2008 to June 23, 2009.

COST
Zero. Nothing. Absolutely free!

REGISTER
info@parkdalewriters.ca or 416-537-2455 x349.

FINE PRINT
You must register.
Snacks and supplies will be provided.
TTC tickets are available for youth coming from outside the neighborhood.
We will collaborate with the Parkdale Book Artists program to do public readings and publish our favorite work!
Coordinated by award-winning Toronto author Emily Pohl-Weary’s (Strange Times at Western High, Girls Who Bite Back: Witches Mutants, Slayers and Freaks).

For further details see parkdalewriters.ca there is also a Facebook Group.

The Beginning of the End for Satellite Radio

Satellite Radio vs. the Dodo revisited

Back in 2005 in my Circles Around the Square blog (a thing tied to the CBC lockout) I expressed more than a few future of satellite radio.

"Soon, very, very soon - anything available online, and much that isn't available online yet will be available to anyone, anywhere, on their pda, cell phone, iPod, laptop or, of course, desktop. People will be able to listen to literally thousands of radio stations across the world, a small (very small) sampling of them are available on this site, and there are about 10,000 available here, even on publicbroadcasting.ca there are over 120 public, university and community radio stations listed. Then, add to this all of the available podcasts and now vidcasts, and the fact that TV will soon be as available as radio online (there are a few thousand feeds here already) and then peoples private collection of music and video plus, of course, video games, email, web sites, text messaging, phone calls...

Once all of this is available to you whereever you are, on virtually any device, largely for free (or for the cost of your cell/internet connection, who exactly is going to be paying "$14.99 per month" for "100 commercial free stations" on a separate, proprietary, device that doesn't do anything else?"

I won't even bother going into how far the internet/wi-fi/etc has come since 2005. But I thought it was worth mentioning that you can now buy a variety of internet radios for your home - that is radios that will play any of the tens of thousands of stations you can get online.













Cell phones and ipods that do this will be right behind I'm sure. If the CBC is short of funds they might want to see if anyone wants half of Sirus at a very reasonable price.

Laura Barrett in Session

There are alot of "Sessions" on the CBC Radio 3 site, but once a week they take one of them and put it out as a podcast. This week's is Laura Barrett (regular readers of this blog will, rightly, detect some favouritism).

You can download the Laura Barrett Session here you can also, if you like subscribe to the Sessions podcast with iTunes or a feed reader.

You could also join the Facebook Group or add the Fan Page a full list of available sessions is on the Facebook Group or here.

Does Stephen Harper Want Another Election?

The Harper Government's proposed cuts to funding for political parties are cynical and can be seen as nothing more than an attack on the other political parties. These subsidies were put in place to limit the influence of corporations and lobby groups. It means that, for those Canadians who take the time to vote, $1.75 per year goes to the party they voted for, win or lose.

In a time when we desperately need electoral reform in Canada this is the exact opposite. It means that if the party you vote for doesn't win your party and your candidate get nothing at all. I suppose it is not surprising that the party most tightly linked to large corporations and lobby groups should want to increase the influence that those groups have but it should not be seen as a 'cost cutting measure'. In the long run that increased influence will end up costing taxpayers far more than the little bit we save and ultimately it will weaken Canadian Democracy and limit the ability of minority parties to have their voices heard at all.

The timing of this, coming right after an election that only Stephen Harper wanted, cannot be ignored either. The Liberal are in the midst of a leadership race and the timing for an election is bad for everyone, but if it's a choice between an election and allowing the democratic funding of political parties to end then we must have another election. Under the circumstances it may be necessary for the Liberal Party to cut short their leadership race and go straight to a convention.

As you can probably guess a Facebook Group to this effect has been started.

Coming Up in Toronto

Thursday, November 27
Santa in the City Fundraiser 2008
Facebook Event Page

I Am Robot and Proud CD Release
Facebook Event Page

Spookey Ruben, Schomberg Fair, Black Hat Brigade, Whale Tooth at the Shoe!
Facebook Event Page

RIG: DESIGNS FROM THE FUEL TRANSITION
Facebook Event Page

TorQ Percussion Quartet
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New Music Night @ Clinton's Tavern
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Sneaky Dee's for SIR
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The Main Thing Presents... Super Soul Sound Showcase Revue!
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Friday, November 28
FUEL TESTS SYMPOSIUM + BOOK LAUNCH
Facebook Event Page

TWM 29: Pavlov's Dogs Orchestra, Young Contrarians & The Rest
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Two Hours Traffic w. Boys Who Say No & The Danks
Facebook Event Page

WOAH! GORDO -- KID METROPOLIS CD RELEASE PARTY
Facebook Event Page

Tidings in Toronto: Allison Crowe w. Special Guest Stacy Burke
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The Human Statues Return to the Rivoli
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ALLEY CABARET
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Looks Linear "Modern Patchwork" CD release party
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The Superstitions EP Release Party
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Double Dose of Samba @ The Gladstone
Facebook Event Page

We're Back And We're Ready To Rock!
Facebook Event Page

YACHT ROCK AT THE BOAT
Facebook Event Page

SHIT LA MERDE vs FAMOUS PLAYERS
Facebook Event Page

MUSK
Facebook Event Page

Saturday, November 29
The Paranormal Show at The Campbell House
Facebook Event Page

TWM Presents: Debbie Suede, Ginger & Irene + This is Picture
Facebook Event Page

Buy Nothing Day 2008
A 24 hour moratorium on consumer spending
Facebook Event Page

Crafternoon Tea
Facebook Event Page

The World Provider ‘Hard Feelings’ CD Release
Facebook Event Page

ANNE MADE ME GAY
Facebook Event Page

Slowdance Night - TORONTO Winter Formal!
Facebook Event Page

Don't touch me,I am dancing.
Facebook Event Page

ART CLOSING PARTY AUCTION
Facebook Event Page

Rock Lottery
Facebook Event Page

F'UNREAL
Facebook Event Page

Sunday, November 30
Broken Pencil's Second Annual Indie Writers Deathmatch!!
Facebook Event Page

Wavelength 441: Maynards + Pink Noise + School Jerks + First Person Shooter
Facebook Event Page

Sunday Night Live w/ host Chris Gibbs!
Facebook Event Page

December 1
Brainsgiving @ the Gladstone
Facebook Event Page

Sunday, December 2
Folk Yeah! Featuring Wendy Leung, Melissa Dalton & Lara Martin
Facebook Event Page

"NORM" The Broadcast Premiere!!!
Facebook Event Page

Monday, December 3
MBMG in Toronto w/ People in Planes!
Facebook Event Page

PWYC Weds w/ A Northern Drawl, The Boo, Vedette
Facebook Event Page

Tuesday, December 4
Gentleman Reg ~ 7" Release Party at the Drake
Facebook Event Page

Impulse 2008
Facebook Event Page

TAYLOR KNOX and the ISHMAELS + WILLIAM DELRAY with the SEXY MOVING PARTS
Facebook Event Page

Friday, December 5
Royal Wood at the Mod Club
Facebook Event Page

Audio Blood & TWM's JINGLE BELL HOP! with Oh No Forest Fires, Bass Lions..
and Brett Caswell & the Marquee Rose and DJ Earl Grey!
Facebook Event Page

Tiny Miracles
Facebook Event Page

SACRED FLESH
Facebook Event Page

TWM 30: Weathermaking Challenge,Racoon Wedding,Primordials & Blanc en White
Facebook Event Page

Saturday, December 6
YONDER w/Mandibles
Facebook Event Page

REMOVABLE PARTS — A Series of Love Songs About Voluntary Amputation
Facebook Event Page

Events for Life presents "Kickin It for Kenya!" Benefit Concert
Help send Alex on a Free the Children volunteer trip to Kenya!
Facebook Event Page

Garen LIVE?!#@ the Central - Sat.Dec.06
Facebook Event Page

Sunday, December 7
Rock-a-Thon 2008
Facebook Event Page

Hard Twist Exhibition
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Wavelength 442: Canaille + Theology 3 + Louwop
Facebook Event Page

Women In Tragedy/Doom Tickler/Gravitons/Almost Blue Sunshine
Facebook Event Page

Thursday, December 11
Wallace Halladay & Ryan Scott: LOUD Music for Saxophone & Percussion
Facebook Event Page

TWM Presents: Craft Economy's CD release @ Sneaky Dee's with...
Whale Tooth, Provincial Parks & DJ sets from DJ Lawrence!
Facebook Event Page

Friday, December 12
Alan Licht, Aki Onda & Michael Snow —3 Free Noise Music Masters
Canadian Exclusive Engagement! Duo + Trio Sets of Not-Totally-Indeterminate Improvisation
Facebook Event Page

My Big Fat Donated Kidney by Nikki Payne
A one person show by Nikki Payne
Facebook Event Page

Rock 'Em Sock 'Em w. The D'Urbervilles / Katie Stelmanis / Bocce / more!!
Facebook Event Page

Saturday, December 13
ANURYZM show
Facebook Event Page

☠ Base War // 12 ☠ One Year Anniversary! Dance Party ♡
Facebook Event Page

Sunday, December 14
Wavelength 443: Disguises + CATL + Bitter City
Facebook Event Page

Thursday, December 18
Hioliday Toy Fundraiser @ the Comedy Bar
Facebook Event Page

Friday, December 19
The Diableros, Great Bloomers & Serb Superb at The Boat!
Facebook Event Page

Saturday, December 20
"I Remember Halloween": The Art of Ghoulish Gary Pullin
Facebook Event Page

Sunday, December 21
Themis Wiccan X-Mas Party December 21st at The GoodTime Cafe
Facebook Event Page

Thursday, January 1
WINKY AWARDS
Facebook Event Page

January 5
Take It Back @ Next Stage Festival Jan 5-18
Facebook Event Page

Should these dots be connected? If so, how?

Crossposted from my Livejournal:

Jesse Brown just posted a note about the cumulative effect of several decisions by governments and corporations on the Canadian net-using public. He closes it by raising several questions of interest to me and to anyone looking to stay in touch with Canadians from anywhere else on the planet as well as the Canadian public.

(Alternative, you can read it here instead. There's more comments already posted at the Search Engine edition of the blog posting already.

Scared? Or Not Scared?

And while I'm on the subject, might this item have anything useful to do with the other above-linked stuff?

New Jenn Grant Album and Llamas?

According to CBC Radio 3 a new album is on it's way (announced via text message) from Jenn Grant.

"In a serious of excited yet cryptic text messages, Jenn eagerly informs us that her new album is entitled Echoes, and will be released by Six Shooter Records on January 27, 2009. Echoes was recorded at a farm house near Schomberg, Ontario, apparently owned by someone named "Puck"."

- It is unclear what role (if any) Lightning the Llama played in the recording or whether he/she or the kittens will be joining Jenn for the Tour.

Strange Things are Afoot at the CBC

I'm not sure exactly what to make of it all (apparently most are in the same boat). In late October the CBC axed two of its most senior foreign correspondents, then rumors began to fly about possible changes coming to CBC News.

The "Festivus Echo Chamber Miracle in The TBC Atrium," commonly known as the "CBC Christmas Party," has been canceled, as have all corporate-sponsored parties from sea to sea to sea.

Cuts come to CBC News on Nov. 26.

Fecan's Folly II: Richard's Revenge

The National will be moved to 11 o'clock to make room for Stursberg's burgeoning entertainment empire.

The National "back half" will be gone by the end of fiscal.

The National "back half" will remain, but the "full-edition" doc, once 28 minutes in the proud days of The Journal, then 22 minutes for a decade, then 21 minutes to allow for weather, will now be 15 minutes max.
The World at Six in up for a R2-style populist re-imagining.

Well it's November 26 and there were no cuts today but, inexplicably John Cruickshank after little more than a year on the job as the head of CBC news, is leaving. Cruickshank announced today that he is heading to the Toronto Star to take over as publisher - so is he leaving because he couldn't get what he wanted, or is he securing a spot on a lifeboat before the iceberg?

Those of us not in the inner circle will have to wait and see - but as an insurance policy the Save CBC News group on Facebook is 548 members and growing.

Fortunately the Arts and Culture Sector Has a Strong Sense of Irony

Before the election Stephen Harper swore we weren't going into recession, he said he wouldn't run a deficit and he was waging a non stop assault on arts and culture (the Mayor of Ottawa still is. The funny thing is now that we're in a recession, and headed into a deficit arts and culture will be one of the few industries that help keep it from getting worse. As I pointed out repeatedly during the election:

According to the Board of Trade arts and culture, both directly and indirectly employ 1.1 million people, generate 84 billion in economic activity and accounts for 7.4% of GDP.

Arts and culture, according to the Canada Council employs "roughly the same number of jobs as agriculture, forestry, fishing, mining, oil & gas and utilities combined".

According to the Government of Canada's website for Trade Routes Canada's cultural exports equal 5 billion dollars annually.

What's more arts and culture are pretty recession proof. During the great depression Hollywood (the southern one) saw a golden age. We were introduced to Humphrey Bogart and Jimmy Stewart. The Marx Brothers hit the limelight and films like King Kong, Gone With the Wind, the Wizard of Oz, Citizen Kane, Angels With Dirty Faces, Boys Town and Mr. Smith Goes to Washington gave people an escape from their everyday lives during tough economic times.

In this particular recession it is likely that the falling dollar will actually boost the sector as US production comes north to take advantage of the Canadian dollar. So as bad as the economy is and as bad as it is likely to get it won't get as bad as it could.

The arts and culture sector, belittled by Harper and vilified by most conservatives will continue to provide jobs - both directly and indirectly and provide economic activity, tourism, consumer activity and will keep tax dollars flowing into government coffers (no doubt to subsidize other industries that conservatives are more fond of.)

I would suggest that the conservatives might learn a valuable lesson from this, but they won't. Fortunately the people who make up the arts and culture sector have a strong sense of irony and we can all at least have a good laugh (or at least a knowing smirk) over it.

Jason Collett back at the Dakota this December

CBC Radio 3 reports that Jason Collett is heading back to take up residency at the Dakota Tavern in Toronto this December.

"Specifically, he's bringing his "Basement Revue" back to Toronto's Dakota Tavern every Tuesday in December.

The concert series includes performances by Collett, as well as appearances by guest musicians, writers and more.

At last year's first-annual Basement Revue, concertgoers got treated to a Broken Social Scene jam, a poetry reading from Andrew Whiteman, a sneak preview of Charles Spearin's The Happiness Project, an interactive cooking demonstration from celebrity chef Michael P. Clive and more."

Collett won't be available on December 9 so Broken Social Scene's Kevin Drew is filling in as host.

A National Code of Conduct for Journalists?

Richard Moon's report on the Canadian Human Rights commission was released today. In one of it's more controversial points it recommended that hate speech not be covered by the Human Rights act:

"My principle recommendation, in the end, has been for the repeal of Section 13," Moon told CBC News on Monday. "That does not mean that we no longer have hate speech regulation. What it means is that the Criminal Code of Canada, which has a ban on the wilful promotion of hatred, would be the recourse."

In his report, which was made public Monday, Moon also suggests that the application of the Criminal Code provision should also be limited. He says it should only be applied in cases where the speech "explicitly or implicitly threatens, justifies or advocates violence against the members of an identifiable group."

I certainly do not agree with Moon's conclusion. I do not see any excuse for hate speech on any level and do not believe it is over prosecuted even now. However there is something else in the report that I do like. From j-source:

""Newspapers and news magazines should seek to revitalize the provincial/regional press councils and ensure that identifiable groups are able to pursue complaints if they feel they have been unfairly represented in mainstream media," declares an independent report about online hate speech, released by the Canadian Human Rights Commission."

In the absence of press councils, report author Richard Moon called for "the statutory creation of a national press council with compulsory membership. This national press council would have the authority to determine whether a newspaper or magazine has breached professional standards and order the publication of the press council’s decision.

I think this idea could accomplish a number of things. I am not a journalist and don't claim to be, but the only thing separating me from the title is saying that I am. Currently there is nothing that necessarily defines a journalist. You can go to journalism school and not be a journalist, you can write for a national newspaper without going to journalism school - if the publisher is willing you don't even need any training or experience. While all publications and media outlets have a code of standards and practices this is done at the discretion of the media outlet.

A set of standards that applied to anyone wishing to claim the title journalist and enforced by a national board would protect the title. It would tell the public that there is a difference between a journalist and a blogger - not because of training or who they work for, but because they agree to abide by a certain set of standards. Apart from journalist/blogger issues it would prevent what has happened to US media.

I've said frequently over the last eight or so years that the most credible source in the U.S. for domestic news is Comedian John Steward. Virtually all of the others (excepting a few newspapers) have to one extent or another sold their souls for ratings. 'If it Bleeds it Leads' has become a journalistic rule, staged 'heroism' in places like New Orleans is applauded rather than condemned, journalists becoming part of the story is generally encouraged and long winded stories that are big on speculation, scandal and titillation but short on substance fill much of the news day.

A set of nationally applied standards and licensed peer reviewed 'journalism' would help prevent this. In the same way that it takes alot for an attorney to risk disbarment - few journalists would risk that title to grab a quick ratings bump and a 'news' organization that didn't employ 'journalists' would have a hard time continuing to call themselves a 'news organization'.

Sook Yin Lee's Year of the Carnivore in Production

According to Sook Yin Lee's Myspace Blog production on her feature film directorial debut started yesterday. Year of the Carnivore is shooting in Maple Ridge, B.C.

"I'm learning a lot. Normally I make little movies with my friends in our houses, but this is a much larger undertaking, we even have a transportation unit and a preproduction facility with a parking lot attendant who operates a gate!

I can't yet reveal who the actors are until all the leads are confirmed, but I must say, this cast rocks. My crew is top notch too. After years of writing this story, I can't believe it's actually becoming a reality. I'm excited and I'm scared. It's one of the biggest undertakings of my life. I was talking to my best friend Jooj the other night, when he gave me this simple advice: make something beautiful."

While Sook-Yin may be uncomfortable revealing details some are available at the website of Screen Siren Pictures

Year of the Carnivore is a bittersweet comedy, a coming-of-age story about a girl with an unrequited crush on a boy who thinks she's bad in bed, so she goes out to get more "experience".

More info is available at http://www.screensiren.ca/in-development/year-of-the-carnivore/

An Early Xmas Gift for Everyone from Mint Records

From CBC Radio 3 comes word that Mint Records has conjured up a free 7 song sampler featuring The Pack A.D., Kellarissa, the Buttless Chaps, the Awkward Stage, Vancougar, Novillero and Hot Panda. The only catch is that you have to have an eMusic account to access it - but the e-Music account is free so hop over to http://www.emusic.com/album/Various-Artists-Mint-Records-Mint-Records-Ridiculously-Late-eMusic-Sampler-MP3-Download/11332198.html and grab your 'Rediculously Late eMusic Samler'!

Also, if you are in the Vancouver area don't forget that Rediculously Early Xmas Party happens December 5th and 6th!

Laura Barrett - Consumption Video

Video from Laura Barrett's CD release for 'Victory Garden' at the Tranzac in Toronto. As I've mentioned you can hear the entire concert at CBC Radio 2's concerts on demand. You can also but a copy on Zunior and vote for Laura (and other great Canadian artists) at the CBC Radio 3 Bucky Awards.





Laura Barrett - Consumption

The Economy is Tough But Don't Forget

The collapse of the U.S. economy was not unexpected but we certainly hadn't planned for it. Even with this unexpected challenge though we have to remember that there are two primary challenges facing us in this generation: the environment and poverty.

As I pointed out earlier this week, we are not doing well on the environment - far from leading the world our emissions are rising faster than any country outside of eastern Europe (to tell the truth we are even outpacing them.)

We also learned earlier this week that we are failing to make progress on poverty in Canada.

"

Canada's after-tax child poverty rate appears stalled at 11.3 per cent.

Nearly one out every nine Canadian children lives in poverty.

Forty per cent of low-income children live in families where at least one of their parents work full-time year round.

Children among visible minorities, and new Canadian and aboriginal families as well as children with disabilities are at greater risk of living in poverty.

Nearly one in four First Nations children continue to live in poverty.

"

I started this with the economy because it's the issue on everyone's mind and I've noticed that when the economy is down just about every other issue is off the table. This is certainly understandable but given that poverty rates are bound to get worse, in Canada and around the globe as the economic crisis deepens and the environment is in crisis and isn't going to get better on it's own while we do other things I think it's important to keep these issues on the table.

To this end I've created a Facebook group that will act as a newsletter as well as a place to share and discuss information: If you are interested please see http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=36530163748.

Help Create Tiny Miracles in Toronto

On Friday, December 5th and 6th Sarah Hennessey and Pat Thornton host the 3rd annual Tiny Miracles at the Comedy Bar in Toronto. Both nights start at 9:30 pm and cost $10. Proceeds from the shows go to create care packages for Toronto's homeless.

The December 5th show features Debra Digiovanni, the Imponderables, Mark Forward and the Doowops.

December 6th will see Rebecca Kohler, Terry Clement, Winston Sear and Bullhooey.

Both shows will feature videos by Levi MacDougall, Chris Locke, Jared Sales, Josh Saltzman and Daniel Warth along with music from Boyfriends and Girlfirends.

FWC: Canada Screens Comes to Toronto

Canada Screens an initiative that has had great success in Vancouver is now being brought to Toronto by the First Weekend Club. The Cananada Screens events aim to "share the best of Canadian Film in social and intimate environments - very similar to our Genie TalkBack event." According to First Weekend Club:

Canada Screens bridges the gap between the audience and the filmmaker, and builds a stronger sense of community within the film industry.  The events share the best in Canadian Film within an intimate environment, bringing our special guests up-close and personal with film-goers, filmmakers, and creative audiences.

First Weekend Club (firstweekendclub.ca) is an organization that was created to help build audiences for Canadian film - especially the crucial first weekend. Good opening weekend attendance at films can extend their run in theaters enabling more people to see the film. One of the realities of Canadian Film is that it is greatly overshadowed by our American neighbours. The marketing budget for a Hollywood blockbuster is frequently greater than the entire budget for a Canadian film. In addition to being able to buy more advertising because American films are more heavily promoted and because they have big stars (who are also heavily promoted) Canadian media frequently gives them massive amounts of free press (while nearly ignoring Canadian film.) Another reality of Canadian film is that it is generally more thoughtful and diverse than the over-hyped Hollywood films. Membership in First Weekend Club is free.

Kicking off Canada Screens Toronto is Jean-Marc Vallee's film C.R.A.Z.Y. further information is available at http://www.firstweekendclub.ca/canada-screens/canada-screens-films/announcing-canada-screens-toronto.html.

Arts and the City (of Ottawa)

There ought to be a movie poster to go with a title like that.

Someday for that, if I can line up the right models to pose for the shoot. (Yes, this is a call for volunteers.)

Meantime...

From Dwight's photos

There was a meeting at the SAW Gallery two nights ago, this past Wednesday. It was announced on Facebook, a couple of days prior, as a follow-up on the gathering at City Hall on Monday.

(You may never have heard of SAW, so: it's located off of Waller near Daly, behind and under the Arts Court complex next to the Rideau Centre in the Byward Market section of downtown Ottawa. It all used to be the city's main court house. Vancouverites reading this are pre-emptively excused from charges of wrongful accusation if they suspect that Arts Court was based on something that Vancouver did first, as I also suspect it was based on their Art Gallery idea.)

From Dwight's photos

The meeting was a skull session, strategies and tactics for meeting the challenge of a staff budget proposal making the rounds at City Hall with an eye on FY 2009 to contain tax increases by slashing the arts/heritage/cultural support budget very nearly to nothing. Festivals, local museums, art shows and schools...yep, the full range.

It lasted about 90 minutes. Short, lively, and well-attended. You will likely see some of the ideas discussed put into motion between now and December 1st, where City Council will be receiving submissions from the public on why the proposed cuts are either a good or a bad idea.

For myself...well, I've already admitted my biases, else this bit of opinionation wouldn't be posted here. The line item covering the city's support of arts/heritage/culture events and institutions, and grants for specific artists as well, barely makes for what I've heard cited as 0.2 % of the city's budget overall at present.

You've already heard the "One dollar in, twenty-one dollars repaid to the city" line.

From Dwight's photos

I'm wondering if we can't boil it down more simply: let's not let the kids here grow up thinking this is a boring town. Or that it ought to be boring.

Because it doesn't have to be boring. Just happily exhausting.

Give Him a chance.

Is it one man's responsibility to save the world? Even with all the power that Superman possessed, bad things still happened all over the planet. So if Superman, Batman, and even Spiderman couldn't save the world from itself, is it fair for everyone to place that type of pressure on the newly elected President of the United States?

Not even in office as of this writing and the media (print and television) along with people on the streets are already putting in their request. People of color are saying he should do more for those that look like him. While others are afraid he won't do for them.

Here's a suggestion. How about we allow the man to be sworn in, pick his cabinet and move into the White House, maybe take a nap, pick out his superhero suit and cape colors before we ask him to fix in one day the ills of the past eight years.

Barack Obama is the President of the United States. He just so happens to have a darker pigmentation than those that previously occupied the position. While that may give some folks a reason to cheer, I think it's more important that those that voted decided that he was the one to bring change to a troubled country. Because regardless of your skin tone, if you live in the United States, you are an American and the President represents the people of America and not the color of the country.

Please join my family and I as we pray daily for this newly elected leader. God knows he going to need it.

Veda Hille Breaks Finger in Sock Accident

2008 Bucky Nominee Veda Hille has been forced to cancel some upcoming shows due to a broken finger - suffered (apparently) while putting on socks.

"ok, turns out my finger is actually broken. from taking off my socks. watch out people, danger is everywhere.

so i won’t be playing at the doxa event, or the clancy’s angels event, or even the theatre replacement event. rest and relaxation, and jeez i should probably stop typing too."

Free Dan Mangan Show in Toronto

On Wednesday, November 26 Vancouver singer songwriter Dan Mangan will be playing a show at the Annex Wreck Room, 794 Bathurst Street in Toronto. Thanks to the IndieCan Podcast the show is absolutely free. Given Mr. Mangan's popularity and the general popularity of free shows it would be a good idea to get there considerably earlier than the 10:30 start time.

The Facebook Event Page Is Here

Dan Mangan - Journal of a Narcoleptic

Coming Up in Toronto

Thursday, November 20
MOVIE-OKE
Facebook Event Page

Mind Officially Blown
Facebook Event Page

TWM: Revolution Love, Dead Sexy Sheila, the Vestaloynes, Common Dears
Facebook Event Page

The Paranormal Show at The Campbell House (Nov. 20 - 29)
Facebook Event Page

Friday, November 21
NOIR- GANGBANGAZ EDITION
Facebook Event Page

Footprints Reading Series!
Facebook Event Page

Big Blues little room
Facebook Event Page

TWM Presents: Dance Electric, Pants & Tie, The Vanishers
Facebook Event Page

Friday Night Magic @ Zemra Bar & Lounge
Facebook Event Page

The End of an Error
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Saturday, November 22
DPN @ Toronto Sketch Festival COMEDY BAR
Facebook Event Page

Good Jobs for All for a Greater Toronto
Facebook Event Page

It's TWM 100th show AND the Lovely Killbots CD release Party!
Facebook Event Page

Sunday, November 23
Wavelength 440 —Sports: The Band + Element Choir + Fall Horsie
Facebook Event Page

DPN @ Toronto Sketchfest DIESEL SHOW
Facebook Event Page

Super Jam Contest @ McGradies
Facebook Event Page

Tuesday, November 25
Colours of Comedy #5
Facebook Event Page

CANADA READS
Facebook Event Page

Wednesday, November 26
Sworn Enemy, For Today, Better Left Unsaid, W.I.T.W in Toronto
Facebook Event Page

Mary Bronstein's YEAST (Canadian Premiere)
Facebook Event Page

Thursday, November 27
Santa in the City Fundraiser 2008
Facebook Event Page

Spookey Ruben, Schomberg Fair, Black Hat Brigade, Whale Tooth at the Shoe!
Facebook Event Page

RIG: DESIGNS FROM THE FUEL TRANSITION
Facebook Event Page

TorQ Percussion Quartet
Facebook Event Page

Friday, November 28
FUEL TESTS SYMPOSIUM + BOOK LAUNCH
Facebook Event Page

TWM 29: Pavlov's Dogs Orchestra, Young Contrarians & The Rest
Facebook Event Page

Two Hours Traffic w. Boys Who Say No & The Danks
Facebook Event Page

WOAH! GORDO -- KID METROPOLIS CD RELEASE PARTY
Facebook Event Page

Tidings in Toronto: Allison Crowe w. Special Guest Stacy Burke
Facebook Event Page

The Human Statues Return to the Rivoli
Facebook Event Page

Saturday, November 29
TWM Presents: Debbie Suede, Ginger & Irene + This is Picture
Facebook Event Page

Buy Nothing Day 2008
A 24 hour moratorium on consumer spending
Facebook Event Page

Crafternoon Tea
Facebook Event Page

The World Provider ‘Hard Feelings’ CD Release
Facebook Event Page

ANNE MADE ME GAY
Facebook Event Page

Slowdance Night - TORONTO Winter Formal!
Facebook Event Page

Don't touch me,I am dancing.
Facebook Event Page

Sunday, November 30
Broken Pencil's Second Annual Indie Writers Deathmatch!!
Facebook Event Page

Wavelength 441: Maynards + Pink Noise + School Jerks + First Person Shooter
Facebook Event Page

December 1
Brainsgiving @ the Gladstone
Facebook Event Page

Sunday, December 2
Folk Yeah! Featuring Wendy Leung, Melissa Dalton & Lara Martin
Facebook Event Page

"NORM" The Broadcast Premiere!!!
Facebook Event Page

Monday, December 3
MBMG in Toronto w/ People in Planes!
Facebook Event Page

Friday, December 5
Royal Wood at the Mod Club
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Audio Blood & TWM's JINGLE BELL HOP! with Oh No Forest Fires, Bass Lions..
and Brett Caswell & the Marquee Rose and DJ Earl Grey!
Facebook Event Page

Tiny Miracles
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Saturday, December 6
YONDER w/Mandibles
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REMOVABLE PARTS — A Series of Love Songs About Voluntary Amputation
Facebook Event Page

Events for Life presents "Kickin It for Kenya!" Benefit Concert
Help send Alex on a Free the Children volunteer trip to Kenya!
Facebook Event Page

Sunday, December 7
Rock-a-Thon 2008
Facebook Event Page

Thursday, December 11
Wallace Halladay & Ryan Scott: LOUD Music for Saxophone & Percussion
Facebook Event Page

Friday, December 12
Alan Licht, Aki Onda & Michael Snow —3 Free Noise Music Masters
Canadian Exclusive Engagement! Duo + Trio Sets of Not-Totally-Indeterminate Improvisation
Facebook Event Page

My Big Fat Donated Kidney by Nikki Payne
A one person show by Nikki Payne
Facebook Event Page

Rock 'Em Sock 'Em w. The D'Urbervilles / Katie Stelmanis / Bocce / more!!
Facebook Event Page

Thursday, December 18
Hioliday Toy Fundraiser @ the Comedy Bar
Facebook Event Page

Sunday, December 21
Themis Wiccan X-Mas Party December 21st at The GoodTime Cafe
Facebook Event Page

Thursday, January 1
WINKY AWARDS
Facebook Event Page

The CRTC Refuses To Do It's Job

The CRTC ruled today that Bell can continue to control how you use the internet. This is in keeping with the CRTC philosophy of the last several years which generally boils down to 'screw consumers'. The CRTC has regularly failed Canadian consumers and allowed heavily publicly subsidized companies such as Bell, Rogers and Shaw to do as they please with little or no regulation or oversight and no obligation to give anything back to the consumers who subsidize their existence.

They have failed to control media consolidation, they failed to take any action when cable providers refused their legal obligations to the Canadian Television Fund, they refused to force cable providers to pay the same carriage fees to Canadian networks that they pay to US networks. In short the CRTC has failed to do the job it was created to do - namely to protect Canadian consumers and Canadian media.

The only real way, that I can see, to force the CRTC to do it's job is to put in place federal laws to more strictly regulate broadcasters, cable companies and phone companies. These should include:

Net Neutrality legislation

Greatly strengthened public service requirements

Increased restrictions on ownership/consolidation

Funds for cities to set up municipal wi-fi systems

Increased fees for licenses, including carriage fees and contributions to the Canadian Television Fund and the New Media Fund

There are obviously more, but that would be a good start. Until some action is taken by the government or the CRTC I don't believe that there is any reason for Canadians to show any respect to the CRTC, cable companies or ISP or to show any respect for their rules or regulations. Canada's broadcast systems - including the airwaves, and the infrastructure (the pipes) that these companies use belong to Canadians. The CRTC, contrary to it's mandate, wants to take them away and give them away to private companies - until we get them back these private companies and the CRTC should be seen as thieves and enemies of Canada and treated with no more respect than that.

Canadian Emissions Still Going Up

Everyone seems to be green these days, virtually every ad on television is about how green the company is. There are constant reminders of ways you can be a little greener, and everyone seems to be getting on board but despite our best efforts:

"They show that in 2006 emissions did actually fall by 0.1%, but the UN's climate change secretariat said that this tiny dip was statistically insignificant.
The overall underlying trend since 2000 is up, even though the countries in question had promised to cut their emissions.
The worst culprit has been Canada. Its emissions since 1990 have shot up 21.3% - they should have fallen 6%."

Full article at the BBC.

Now it can be hoped that the situation will improve a bit as US President Elect Obama forces Harper to be greener, and bans tar sands oil but even that will not be enough. Everyone doing their own little bit is no longer enough. It's simply not working - it is time for harsh government intervention and sacrifice. This should include a carbon tax and a cap and trade system. It should also include stronger emissions requirements for vehicles (with no grandfather clause - older inefficient vehicles should be banned from the roads), and other measures that would force individuals and industry to clean up their act. The voluntary Million Acts of Green type approach is simply not having an impact. (It should also be noted that the CBC 'Million Acts of Green' site was borrowed from the World Wildlife Fund.) For every little thing that you and I do to improve things there is someone out there (individuals or industries) who is going twice as fast in the opposite direction.

New Stuff Added

So first there was an election and then there was a move and over that time I've sort of neglected some updates. Listed below are the new blogs, podcasts and other feeds that I've added to various categories.

I've also tweaked the feeds (see the bottom of each page to find out how to subscribe to that feed - feed reader, desktop or email) and made them easier to read at a glance.

So, the new feeds (and the sections they are in):

Music Blogs

Danny Michel

Emm Gryner

For the 'records'

Lonely Vagabond

Tokyo Police Club

Performing Arts

One Big Umbrella

Play Anon

CanBlogs

Department of Culture

Herkind.com

Julianna Yau's blog

Naomi Klein

Steve Pratt

News and Politics

the Agenda with Steve Pakin

Allan Gregg in Conversation

the Canadian

Department of Culture

Naomi Klein

Rabble

the Tyee

Views from the Lake - Eh?

Literature

What is Stephen Harper Reading?

CanCasts

the Agenda with Steve Pakin

Allan Gregg in Conversation

Band Blogs

Catlow

Kyrie Kristmanson

Nif Dee

Internet Video

Boredomcorner

Halifax

Jon McKiel's Myspace Blog

Peterborough

Peterborough Politics

Edmonton

Wheat Pool

Winnipeg

BREAD AND WINE CULTURE IN H.M.S. PEG

Arts in Ottawa - Getting the Gang Together

In this case, that gang got together at City Hall to hold a press conference.

From Photos

It was well attended by people who care more than a whit over the civic budget cuts proposed by senior staff in the 2009 Draft Budget, about which Justin and I have spoken at some small length before. This is no small cause for thanksgiving. People who give a damn seem to have been multiplying in their ranks in recent years for any number of reasons. Good on you.

From Photos

The news services were also there in force. CBC/Radio Canada(both official languages) were represented, as were CTV/A-Channel, Rogers, CFQ, and others from the private-owned side of the aisle. To all of them as well, good on you. You've been paying attention.

As noted by one of the speakers, per the more recent financial investigations of such matters, it's come to light that for every dollar the city invests in the arts and heritage sector, the local economy gets $21 back in spin-off business effect. Hotels, convention facilities, restaurants, printing, assorted other businesses great and small throughout the city share in that windfall.

From Photos

Not exactly chicken feed, when you consider the effects on civic revenues. Or provincial. Or federal.

Plus you get some fine entertainments that stick around when the tourists, the business travellers and the diplomats all head home at the end of the day.

Win-win, as has been said elsewhere.

From Photos

Bucky Award Time (and some constructive criticism)

It is time to vote for the Bucky awards again, this is CBC Radio 3's annual music award thing. So my main point here is that you should go vote at http://radio3.cbc.ca/polls/?pollId=25.

I actually won one of these last year and am now probably going to kill my chances at a repeat. First though I need to say that this is done purely out of love. If I was generally unhappy with Radio 3 I'd just change the channel. With that said, I found this year's list of nominees pretty disappointing. Obviously I have some favourites - but out of about 75 nominees there are about 15 that I would have nominated had it been my call, there are 7 (of 17) categories in which there is really no one I want to vote for and, to my tastes, glaring omissions abound. By contrast, last year in almost every category I had hard choices to make, there were very few bands nominated for anything that I didn't like.

To tell the truth I am not sure if this is a deviation on their part or on mine. I certainly didn't listen to less music this year, or go to fewer shows, or stop discovering new bands but I've found myself disappointed by the Bucky Awards and the Polaris Prize this year.

I did not start publicbroadcasting.ca to be a critic, so I'm not going to get into a blow by blow of who should have been in and who should be out but I do have two suggestions on how to improve the nominating process.

1) Get rid of the timelines. Currently the Bucky Awards are only open to artists who put out albums in 08. The first problem is that it's not 09 yet. That means there is a hole. Albums that come out late in the year do not qualify for either year. The second problem is that this is indie music. Indie albums do not launch with a big marketing budget. That means that it sometimes takes a while for them to catch on and get people listening (this is frequently done through ALOT of touring and not through ads.) So pitch the timelines altogether. Crunch the playlists and see what Radio 3 played during the year (since the date of the last Bucky nominations) and go from that.

2) Let the audience in. Right now it is the people that work at Radio 3 that figure out the nominations and then the audience gets to vote. As part of the nominating process there should be a non-binding audience nomination period. The folks at Radio 3 can still pick the nominations but find out what the audience thinks - this would help prevent glaring omissions. Every office develops, to one extent or another, it's own culture. Radio 3 should check in before announcing the nominees to make sure that audience culture hasn't strayed too far from office culture (or vice versa).

Grant Lawrence used to have regular shows where he would ask 'what should we be playing' with the obvious counterpoint 'what are we playing too much'. This, in general, would be a good thing to do on a weekly basis I think (far more relevant than fashion thursdays and questions about sunglasses and the colour of your galoshes.

Again, all love to Radio 3 and the folk that work there. It is truly one of the bright spots in a country where the media has largely lost touch with the culture. Like anything else though Radio 3 can be better and in their case the road to 'even better' is neither long nor hard.

Steve Pratt

Steve Pratt, head honcho at CBC Radio 3 has a new blog up at stevepratt.ca: Steve is one of the smartest people in Canadian media especially in terms of future outlook (or if you are after a younger demographic, under 40-45 current outlook). On his blog you can read some of his advice for media, bands, and business in general in terms of being successful in the emerging media environment. I've added the feed from Steve's blog to the primary feed for publicbroadcasting.ca (the stuff on the front page). So you can read it here or there but either way you really should read it.

Brainsgiving 08: Making the Funny for your Brain

On December 1 at the Gladstone Hotel Eyes on Toronto presents Brainsgiving a evening of Comedy to benefeit for St. Michael's Hostpital Foundation.

Brainsgiving is the erm...brain child of Amanda Terfloth who was diagnosed with a pituitary tumour at the age of 17 and told she would need medication (with nasty side effects) for the rest of her adult life. After seeking a second opinion Dr. Harley Smyth (a St. Michael's neurosurgeon) operated and repaired the rebellious gland. Brainsgiving is Amanda's way of giving back. The story is actually much better than this you can read it all here: http://www.brainsgiving.ca/08_cause.html.

This year's Brainsgiving will feature Trevor Boris, Dave Martin, Jillian Thomas, James Salisko and Levi McDougall and the Eyes on Toronto cast. Doors are at 7:30, cost is 10 bucks and the rest of the info is at brainsgiving.ca or the Facebook group at http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=34973299933&ref=ts.

Next I was going to post the trailer, but I can't because it appears to only be on Facebook Video so I can't embed it, so I'll use last years and if you want to see this year's go to http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=45893381536&oid=34973299933.

Beyond that, go to this on Dec. 1 - it will be amazingly fun and all for a good cause.

The 2007 Brainsgiving Trailer

Coming Up In Toronto

Friday, November 14
Art Gallery of Ontario public opening
Facebook Event Page

THIRTY TWO SHORT FILMS ABOUT GLENN GOULD - the anniversary rerelease
Facebook Event Page

ENGINEER, Cauldron, The Womb, Skullfist, Demonthrone - Nov 14th
Facebook Event Page

WALDRON ENTERTAINMENT OFFICIAL LAUNCH PARTY AT THE HARD ROCK CAFE
COME OUT AND CELEBRATE WITH WALDRON ENTERTAINMENT
Facebook Event Page

TWM Presents: Alistair Christl, The Locusts Have No King, Mint Julip
Bring your best boots and snap shirts tonight!
Facebook Event Page

%#^GRAVITY WAVE$@#$ at the Whippersnapper Gallery NOV 14
Facebook Event Page

Saturday, November 15
DIED YOUNG STAYED PRETTY (Nov. 15 - 20)
Facebook Event Page

Plastic Crimewave Sound w/ Djin Aquarian + Mondo Drag
Facebook Event Page

Jimmy Hogg's Comedy Onslaught
Facebook Event Page

Praxis Theatre goes to the bar
Facebook Event Page

Nov 15 - Timber Timbre / Double Suicide / Evening Hymns @ Whippersnppr Glry
Facebook Event Page

THIS IS EXPLODING! MULTI-ACTIVE FUN!
Facebook Event Page

Yawn's CD release!
Facebook Event Page

GOSFORD w/ SUICIDE KINGS & THE DROP DEAD PINUPS
Facebook Event Page

$100 & STEAMBOAT AT THE THE DAKOTA
2 SETS EACH YOU ARE GOING TO FREAK
Facebook Event Page

THIS IS EXPLODING! MULTI-ACTIVE FUN!
Facebook Event Page

ANURYZM show
Facebook Event Page

Sunday, November 16
Super Jam Contest, Sunday afternoon @ McGradies
Facebook Event Page

Karmageddon - Toronto
Facebook Event Page

PWYC Sunday w/ Silver Speakers, Courtney Lynn, Elise LeGrow & Nika Smith
A new monthly night at the Rancho kicks off!
Facebook Event Page

Wavelength 439: Isla Craig + Tusks + Trike
Facebook Event Page

Monday, November 17
Trampoline Hall
Facebook Event Page

Tuesday, November 18
The Toronto Sketch Comedy Festival
Facebook Event Page

TorontoTheBetter PWYC Movie Series Screening
Facebook Event Page

Wednesday, November 19
Gangbangaz at Wrongbar's Hump Day Bump
Facebook Event Page

Twelve Beds of Christmas Charity Auction
Facebook Event Page

PWYC Weds w/ Animal Clinic, Five Star Trailer Park, Thrillharmonic
Facebook Event Page

Thursday, November 20
MOVIE-OKE
Facebook Event Page

Mind Officially Blown
Facebook Event Page

TWM: Revolution Love, Dead Sexy Sheila, the Vestaloynes, Common Dears
Facebook Event Page

Friday, November 21
NOIR- GANGBANGAZ EDITION
Facebook Event Page

Footprints Reading Series!
Facebook Event Page

Big Blues little room
Facebook Event Page

TWM Presents: Dance Electric, Pants & Tie, The Vanishers
Facebook Event Page

Saturday, November 22
Good Jobs for All for a Greater Toronto
Facebook Event Page

It's TWM 100th show AND the Lovely Killbots CD release Party!
Facebook Event Page

Sunday, November 23
Wavelength 440 —Sports: The Band + Element Choir + Fall Horsie
Facebook Event Page

Tuesday, November 25
Colours of Comedy #5
Facebook Event Page

Wednesday, November 26
Sworn Enemy, For Today, Better Left Unsaid, W.I.T.W in Toronto
Facebook Event Page

Mary Bronstein's YEAST (Canadian Premiere)
Facebook Event Page

Thursday, November 27
Santa in the City Fundraiser 2008
Facebook Event Page

Spookey Ruben, Schomberg Fair, Black Hat Brigade, Whale Tooth at the Shoe!
Facebook Event Page

Friday, November 28
FUEL TESTS SYMPOSIUM + BOOK LAUNCH
Facebook Event Page

Two Hours Traffic w. Boys Who Say No & The Danks
Facebook Event Page

WOAH! GORDO -- KID METROPOLIS CD RELEASE PARTY
Facebook Event Page

Tidings in Toronto: Allison Crowe w. Special Guest Stacy Burke
Facebook Event Page

The Human Statues Return to the Rivoli
Facebook Event Page

Saturday, November 29
The World Provider ‘Hard Feelings’ CD Release
Facebook Event Page

Slowdance Night - TORONTO Winter Formal!
Facebook Event Page

Don't touch me,I am dancing.
Facebook Event Page

Sunday, November 30
Broken Pencil's Second Annual Indie Writers Deathmatch!!
Facebook Event Page

Wavelength 441: Maynards + Pink Noise + School Jerks + First Person Shooter
Facebook Event Page

December 1
Brainsgiving @ the Gladstone
Facebook Event Page

Sunday, December 2
Folk Yeah! Featuring Wendy Leung, Melissa Dalton & Lara Martin
Facebook Event Page

Monday, December 3
MBMG in Toronto w/ People in Planes!
Facebook Event Page

Saturday, December 6
YONDER w/Mandibles
Facebook Event Page

REMOVABLE PARTS — A Series of Love Songs About Voluntary Amputation
Facebook Event Page

Sunday, December 7
Rock-a-Thon 2008
Facebook Event Page

Wallace Halladay & Ryan Scott: LOUD Music for Saxophone & Percussion
Facebook Event Page

Friday, December 12
Alan Licht, Aki Onda & Michael Snow —3 Free Noise Music Masters
Canadian Exclusive Engagement! Duo + Trio Sets of Not-Totally-Indeterminate Improvisation
Facebook Event Page

My Big Fat Donated Kidney by Nikki Payne
A one person show by Nikki Payne
Facebook Event Page

Rock 'Em Sock 'Em w. The D'Urbervilles / Katie Stelmanis / Bocce / more!!
Facebook Event Page

Thursday, December 18
Hioliday Toy Fundraiser @ the Comedy Bar
Facebook Event Page

Thursday, January 1
WINKY AWARDS
Facebook Event Page