hersh.happy.fun.time: Blog

For a friend.....

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 02:32:07 GMT

Love's Secret
by William Blake

Never seek to tell thy love, Love that never told can be; For the gentle wind doth move Silently, invisibly. I told my love, I told my love, I told her all my heart, Trembling, cold, in ghastly fears. Ah! she did depart! Soon after she was gone from me, A traveller came by, Silently, invisibly: He took her with a sigh.

The love of turmoil

Fri, 01 Aug 2008 20:03:33 GMT

Situations are often tremulous, callous and heart-rending

Lovers abandon, confident in choosing this fast ending

While others sulk, satisfied in continuous heart mending

While we sit and wonder about messages finding their sending.

Friends scuttle across their floors, with personas fending

Pictures on tables, their auras and energies strongly lending

While letters sit strangely unopened, withered and bending

We sit, stand, laugh and sing, our voices loose and pending.

Let's keep treading, swimming in the futures and intending

To stay afloat, thrive and continuing our impending turmoil.

Dreams dissolved

Sun, 13 Jul 2008 01:18:02 GMT

Sometimes one finds his dreams dissolved

Cravenly adrift, with pain to be absolved

Looking for hope, seeking to seem involved

Figuring out how life's puzzle can be solved.

But while some are content with devolution

The true want the power and grace of evolution

While some minds and bodies course with pollution

Others yearn for the strange beauty of illusion.

If all goes too easily, how can we find a solution

To this infinite curse of dreary modern seclusion

Dream on, you captive soldiers of idle derision

Wandering truth can cut through and make its incision.

Float on

Sat, 21 Jun 2008 23:24:31 GMT

Welcome to the warm summer solstice

For our moods a comforting poultice

The sun and wind our lovely sustenance

Birds and their worms get their prominence

Lawns and gardens require our diligence

Smiles, joy and laughter have their acceptance

While you and I should entangle in a dance

Either here, there or the coast of France.

What's better ....

Thu, 22 May 2008 20:03:52 GMT

... than reclining on a deck chair under the sun in the broad, open Western sky? Not much, I think.

Even better when my host has excused me from gardening chores. He says my company is enough, and my djing expertise controlling the musical flow is good too.

Enough of this typing, back to the carefree lounging.

In the West

Thu, 22 May 2008 02:24:55 GMT

I'm now firmly ensconsed in the central interior of British Columbia. I've traversed the mountain highway between Kelowna and Kamloops, taking in all the wonderful scenery of hills, valleys, rivers and lakes.

My wonderful, brilliant hosts Trevor and Julie wondered why I was so quiet on the trip. Apart from the jet lag, I just sat entranced with the scenery. Such a switch from the flat farmland and urban blights of southern Ontario.

Now the wonderful hosts are whipping a sumptious Indian meal, which I'm sure I will love. Tonight is a night in, featuring a film picked by committee. Unfortunately, I was voted down from my choices, but I'm sure "Savages" will be okay too. Never heard of it, but I'm sure I'll be asleep before the end anyway. Still operating on Eastern time after all.

Wish me well on my journey. I really needed to get away, and these surroundings will be just perfect.

May Two-four!!

Fri, 16 May 2008 23:00:45 GMT

This weekend finds us hale and hearty Canadians with our first long weekend of the relatively good weather season we call late Spring and Summer. It's the unofficial beginning of all things we find dear: camping, gardening, cutting the lawn, sitting around campfires, imbibing our yellow libations and on and on.

We are nominally celebrating Queen Victoria, the british monarch who happened to be our monarch in Canada's confederation year, 1867. You see Canadians happened to be British subjects most of the last century and a half, and continue to be loosely affiliated as members of the Commonwealth.

Now I'm not much of a royalist, but any celebration that allows me a three-day weekend is alright by me.

Bring on the heat and humidity I say. Open up those patios, you taverns and pubs of the land. People of Canada, fish out your sandals, shorts, t-shirts, funny hats, beach towels, balls and frisbees.

This fine weather is oh so fleeting up here. Enjoy it, and pour out a drop for our old Queen. The Queen is dead, but so is winter, and that's a beautiful thing.

It's May, and all is okay

Fri, 02 May 2008 11:41:07 GMT

It's the first Friday in May, so what can I say,

What to hope for, perhaps a sun ray,

Maybe more free time, to run and play,

Wishing faraway friends were here to stay,

My special ones' fears to neatly allay,

Somewhere fun and exciting whither to stray,

The blooming of tulips, roses, Spring hay,

And a hope for my dear ones to all be okay.

My Earth Day recap

Wed, 23 Apr 2008 08:19:35 GMT

Yesterday was Earth Day, an annual day set aside to focus on how we can improve this planet. I think such a gesture is certainly worthwhile, but I think any change has to start with each person doing their part, so here's I celebrated:

At 7 a.m. I took out my recycling, with its paper, cardboard, cans and a piece of plastic or two.

At 8 I took a quick shower. Then I shaved and brushed my teeth, doing neither with the water running. Later, I washed a few dishes by hand, using as little water as possible.

By 9:10, I rode my bike 5 minutes to work.

At work, I poured a few coffees into my favorite mug. No throwaway cups for me.

At 6 p.m. I rode home again.

Quick simple dinner. Minimal time with the television and the computer. One table lamp (compact flourescent bulb naturally) and a couple of candles for power.

Bed by 10:30.

Happy Earth Day everyone. I hope you enjoyed my sanctimony.

What is worth loving?

Sun, 20 Apr 2008 21:13:02 GMT

What makes life worth living, one may ask. This beautiful spring afternoon makes a man reflective.

Love of course. Love for doing one's best in all his endeavors. Love for the beautiful friends and family that are the bedrock of a man's happiness. Love for cool breezes, budding rose bushes, walks around the neighborhood, creating and appreciating art.

Love also comes from the anticipation of brighter things in the future. Hope is such an important emotion. Looking forward is so much more positive than being ensnared by past missteps.

Now what of romance. Is there anything greater than finding the "one." Many have tried, many have failed. Too often lusts overwhelm us into going down inappropriate avenues, often leading to eventual emptiness. I remain circumspect but open, but assure my next true love will receive all I can offer.

They say love is a many splendored thing. Indeed.

Welcome home, JJ

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 23:02:03 GMT

“When you're safe at home you wish you were having an adventure; when you're having an adventure you wish you were safe at home”

Thornton Wilder

"Vivamus, mea Lesbia, atque amemus"

Fri, 11 Apr 2008 02:06:23 GMT

"Lesbia, let's live and love

without one thought for gossip of

the boys grown old and stern.

Suns go down and can return,

but, once put out our own brief light,

we sleep through one eternal night.

Give me a thousand, a hundred kisses,

another thousand, a second hundred,

a thousand complete, a hundred repeat;

and when we've many thousand more,

we'll scramble them, forget the score

so Malice cannot know how high

the count, and cast its evil eye."

Caius Valerius Catullus

c. 84-54 B.C.

Solitude

Fri, 04 Apr 2008 11:15:50 GMT

This is the morning of my fourth day in my new apartment, and I am happy to report that all is well.

The serenity and solitude is a welcome change. All messes are mine, all decisions are mine, all entertainment choices are mine. There is a joy in freedom that can't be overstated.

Loneliness is not an issue. Friends and family abound in this quaint little town. A smiling face is around every corner. And all well-wishers are always welcome to darken my door.

I think things will be okay.

Online anonymity and the misanthropes who abuse it

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 02:53:54 GMT

This blog of mine has been a going concern for almost two and a half years. During that time I've done my best to be forthright and honest with those who read it.

Sometimes I think I'm a dying online breed, for out there lurks thousands of predators, delinquents and ne'er-do-wells who troll upon innocent others. Hiding behind anonymity, they serve up threats and creepiness, making good people wary of this online world.

These malicious mouth-breathing malcontents are social zeros in the real world, and thus bring their ineptitudes to their computer lives.

Why this rant? A good friend, who was admittedly made online, has now sworn off a popular social networking site because of this maliciousness. I, as an upstanding online citizen, want to apologize for the jerks out there.

A simple online rule would be: be nice and don't freak anyone out. Don't type things you wouldn't want said to you.

Good Friday

Fri, 21 Mar 2008 18:16:44 GMT

It certainly is!! Not only for the Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion and rising soon of Jesus Christ. But that is a total crib from Egyptian, Greek and Roman mythology, so no more on that.

It's also good because the day is almost coinciding with the first day of Spring. A needed reprieve from the brutality of this winter. The snow is melting slowly, the air is crisp, the sky is blue. What more can we ask for. Well another 10 degrees would be nice, but why quibble.

Spring is also well known for blooming, both physically and emotionally. Flowers are wonderful to see emerge, as is budding passions for love, reacquaintance and maintaining old friendships.

So let's all wear our broadest smiles for the beautiful season ahead. To sunshine, daffodils, tulips, new love, rushing rivers, patio weather and on and on.

They say it's my birthday, happy birthday to me!!

Wed, 05 Mar 2008 12:10:43 GMT

Horoscope for March 5, 2008
Yesterday | Today | Tomorrow
Today's Pisces Horoscope
(February 19 - March 20)

You may be able to see what you want, but it's like you're outside a closed store, looking through the window. There are so many goodies and it's frustrating when you cannot put your hands on them immediately. Instead of getting hooked by the impossibility of the situation, collect the images for future reference. You are planting seeds that will grow when you water them with action later on.

Yes, planting seeds. Very exciting times. The future is boundless as the seeds grow. Let me hope for a bountiful harvest.

Leaping on leap year

Fri, 29 Feb 2008 15:34:34 GMT

Hello friends, how are you doing on this extra day of the year?

An extra day to be productive or tell someone you love them. Perhaps finish a project you've always been meaning to get to. Perhaps take a trip somewhere to see something new.

A day full of excitement and opportunities. Take a chance and leap in.

Ralph Nader, go away!

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 03:34:13 GMT

So famed and prolific consumer advocate Ralph Nader has declared his candidacy for U.S. president as an independent. Great, visions of 2000 dance in my head. You know the one: where Bush stole the White House by a razor-thin margin. We all know how great the world has been with Bush and his cronies running things.

Ralph, I appreciate all your work for the last four or five decades, but this political agitation thing is not productive. You may garner 2 to 5% of the vote, pretty much the margin for victory in many U.S. elections recently.

The world can't afford Nader's outsider act. Too much at stake.

Ralph, you're well into your 70s, wouldn't it be best to quietly retire and perhaps return to your important advocacy work. The problem is that you are respected. If you were a dithering idiot like Ross Perot I wouldn't be too worried.

Give the world a break.

Mr. Svensson's indispensible philosophies

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 11:06:14 GMT

Last night I was in a celebratory mood: after having looked at a wonderful apartment, which I dearly hope will be mine after the formality of a rental application, I met up with a friend and headed to our favorite pub to partake of premium lagers and a bit of cognac.

Once there, I was happy to see Peter Svensson, one of this town's most interesting characters. Bon vivant comes to mind. Pete is a seventy-something great-grandfather, with an athletic build topped with shocks of long blond hair. Picture an older Rod Stewart.

Pete and I bonded many years ago mainly based on our appetite for music. While my collection is approaching one thousand pieces, Pete figures he owns over 10,000 78's, LPs, 45s, cassettes and the odd CD, which he thinks is a terrible format.

Pete and I can talk jazz for hours. I must be an old soul, because he seems to enjoy my knowledge. Yes, I'm a 30-something anachronism.

Anyway, as always Pete and I did predictably talk music for a while, but more interestingly talk turned to the topics of love and regret.

Pete has a huge, loving family. Even his ex-wife continues to be a close friend. He just attracts admiration. He has many suitors, when he goes dancing on weekends in London.

However, Pete really struck me when he told the story of how as a young soldier, stationed in a small town in Denmark, he met his future wife on a Saturday, and another young woman the following Monday. This second woman really struck Pete. However, he ruined things with her by running down her reputation to a soldier friend of his.

Soon, in this small Danish town, this poor teen had become an object of Derision. "I can never forget how unkind I was to this beautiful, sweet girl," Pete remembered.

His philosophy: if someone is kind to you, return it in kind. Don't peddle in negativity and hatred. Love the lovable.

Pete also, long before the Internet age, was a great collector of penpals, with friends in Japan, Germany, Georgia, etc. He was really intrigued by his Japanese friend, and wish he had taken the opportunity to meet her.

Pete has had a great life, well-travelled, successful, urbane, but even those things don't erase regrets.

Opportunities and decisions abound in every life. Make the most of them, if Pete can be believed.

February Blahs

Wed, 20 Feb 2008 06:01:06 GMT

I don't know about you all, but my family are immigrants, from a land with few opportunities thirty years ago. This land is a small island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, called St. Michael, Azores, a protectorate of Portugal.

I'm writing this to cheer myself up. After we emigrated, in 1971, I did not have an opportunity to finally see this land until a few scant years ago. It was a magical place, all lush vegetation, and an incredibly predictable temperate climate.

Why did we come to this Canadian land, I'll never know. This land features the opposite, harsh climactic extremes.

What I'm saying is: who wants to split on an Azorean villa for the winter for the foreseeable years ahead. I am sick of snow, wind, toques, gloves, heavy coats and sweaters, god dammit.

Right now here, -15C; there, 17C. I'm sure it'll range from 15 to 22C all year. That's my kind of place.

I have 30 odd years to save for retirement. Perhaps I'll end up where I started. One can dream.

Canada's shame

Thu, 22 Nov 2007 00:58:25 GMT

A Polish immigrant, Robert Dziekanski, arrived in our fair land in mid-October looking for a better life here. He left his land behind, no doubt to take advantage of Canada's many charms. His mother was already here, and no doubt told him of our many splendors. However, Robert was probably not expecting iron-fisted police more reminiscent of Poland before the iron curtain fell.

Poor Robert, a 40-year-old construction worker who had never left Poland, let alone taken a flight, flew a full 15 hours to Vancouver, then spent a further 10 hours agitated and frustrated in the airport waiting area, waiting for his mother. His agitation was spurned on by knowing no English and getting little help from airport officials. He finally expressed his exasperation by throwing a few items around. He finally received some attention, with the appearance of four RCMP officers, who within seconds stunned him with a Taser twice. Shortly afterward, Robert collapsed and was dead. The incident was caught on video by a bystander, so feel free to avail yourself of Youtube.

Official inquiries have begun, B.C. politicians are seeking a moratorium on Tasers (though the Vancouver police themselves have just ordered 70 more of the devices for their own force) and newpapers and radio call-in programs are rife with indignation. Personally, I am heartsick about the whole thing.

Robert's mother, Zofia Cisowski, was later reported to have been only a few hundred feet from Robert, but unfortunately they could never connect. Zofia had hoped that she and Robert would eventually open a business together in their new adopted land. Robert had packed lightly, with most of his luggage comprising geography books, no doubt of places here he was hoping to see.

A retired RCMP officer made a good point: why couldn't four young officers use physical restraint on this unarmed man? He was not out of his mind on drugs, as the preliminary autopsy showed nothing in his system and no pre-existing medical condition.

The American company who produces and markets the Taser expectedly trumpeted that Tasers do not kill, but come on, 50,000 volts of electricity is definitely a catalyst if not cause. CBS news has reported that 70 deaths have resulted in the U.S. in relation with Taser use.

I think a moratorium is imperative. What ever happened to the Billy club, pepper spray or the power of persuasion? I understand the attraction of the Taser for police, as it reduces the times a gun might be used. But in this case, Robert's only weapon was assorted office items in the sterile waiting room. Did the Taser have to be the first resort for these cowardly officers?

Let's hope that Robert's death is not in vain. Rest in peace, sir. May your mother find some comfort. Let's hope some lessons can be learned so this shame does not befall us again.

Judge not, lest ye be judged

Fri, 16 Nov 2007 02:03:50 GMT

Earlier this week, I was compelled by the Ministry of the Attorney General to do my civic duty and show up at the London courthouse and make myself available as part of a jury panel.

Ever since I got my letter in October, I was dreading this appointment. I didn't relish the possibility of being mired in a criminal proceeding, especially as one who had decision-making power. Nevermind the dread attached to having to hear the grisly details of a serious crime.

Anyway, after being sandwiched in with about 200 other unfortunate random citizens in a swelteringly dreary courtroom, attendance was painstakingly taken for each of the 200. The registrar dragged out the attendance by trying to be droll with some people's information. Stick to courtroom maintenance, and leave the humor to pros.

After an interminable wait, the principals came into the room. Twenty names were selected, of which about half gave the judge excuses why they wouldn't be able to serve. So other names were selected, until both crown and defence agreed on twelve jurors, based on nothing more than a quick visual sizing up.

I was not one of the selected, thankfully. However, today I read that the jury was just dismissed yesterday, so a new jury must be selected. And because they told us that we're supposed to be available for the next three weeks, if necessary, I am not yet clear.

I really don't have the stomach for meting out justice. I'm just a schlub who tries to keep his nose clean. Courtrooms are best seen in television and film dramas.

Friend reunion tour

Sun, 23 Sep 2007 19:31:17 GMT

I've been on vacation since this past Thursday, and I've decided to use this time to get reacquainted and acquainted with as many friends as possible.

Thursday began with accompanying my most stalwart friend, Mark, to pay a surprise visit to Karina, who though living in our very town, is too often left out of our carousing. We showed up at her place at 10 p.m. and I did not make it home til 10 a.m. Friday. Needless to say we made up for lost time, perhaps overstayed our welcome, but had a good time nevertheless.

Friday afternoon I accompanied my sis Sue and her boyfriend Bruce to Hamilton, where we met up with some of Bruce's friends for a pre-Beastie Boys concert barbecue and beer bash. There, I met Joey, Matt, Trevor and Erin. All fine, upstanding folks, though we all got less upstanding as the beer continued to flow. We eventually took the GO train to Toronto, where we took in a most exhilarating concert by the Beastie Boys, whom I've liked for half my life.

The post party began at the Jack Astor's on Front Street, where further drinks were quaffed. Joey and Matt were probably the worse for wear, culminating in an escort off the GO bus back to Hamilton by Mississauga's finest. However, after an expensive cab to Hamilton, all were accounted for. After another late night, with a second night's fitful sleep on a couch, Sue, Bruce and I were up Saturday morning, and headed to Toronto to see Nelson, Charlotte and their new baby.

The baby was adorable and it was great to see Nelson and family. We all shared coffee and a little nosh, and then headed home. Once home, I was pleasantly surprised to share the carousing last night with my old friend Lath, who made a surprise visit. We showed him the two extremes of Strathroy night spots, Copperfields and The Derby, both with their own particular charms.

Today, Sunday, is a day to recuperate, as early tomorrow I jet off to British Columbia, where I get to meet up with three more dear friends, who have been neglected for far too long. Can't wait, guys!

And to top off these 10 days, when I land in London next Saturday, I will be lucky enough to meet up with dear Ellen, who happens to be in London from Ottawa that weekend.

I recommend to all to use your vacations just as wisely. It's great to see Buckingham Palace and the Eiffel Tower, but nothing beats seeing the smiling faces of friends, both old and new.

Late summer recap

Wed, 12 Sep 2007 00:52:14 GMT

It's the sixth anniversary of the attack on the U.S., which has undoubtedly changed the world's affairs ever since. Vengeful wars have ensued, thousands have suffered and hatred is high. On this anniversary, think of all the victims of hatred on that day and following that day until now. Let your love and prayers ring out.

I have purposely avoided news media today, which has no doubt been solemn on this occassion. Anyway, this blog is sounding too much like last year's rant, so I'll stop now.

On to other debacles, so I hear Britney made a fool of herself at an awards show. Poor Britney, now the media is rife with personal attacks on her waist line. What a sad commentary on the commentators. Leave the poor woman alone.

On the personal front, I'm jetting off to the West Coast in a couple of weeks to finally reconnect with a few friends whom I've been neglecting for far too long. It will be majestic to see the Rockies and the Pacific. I hope and imagine I will be left speechless.

Work was overwhelming last week. Apparently dozens and dozens of people needed new mattresses, and we were happy to oblige. Phew, perhaps I'll be fully recovered in time for our next big event.

The marching band is now on hiatus until next season. We weren't the greatest this year, but audiences still dutifully clapped in between sips of their beer and wine. I can put the military uniform away now, and return to my civilian life.

The summer drought was interspersed with a few tennis matches and a beautiful day at the beach in August. Thanks friends for keeping me somewhat active before the usual winter hibernation begins.

Now it's time to zip up our jackets and wait for the explosion of pretty fall colours.

Stanley in Strathroy

Fri, 10 Aug 2007 23:56:37 GMT

The fair burghers get a special treat tomorrow as the hallowed hardware of hockey, the Stanley Cup, will be set up on the concrete floor of our old hockey barn.

You see a local boy, Andy Macdonald, was lucky enough to be on the team, Anaheim, that won this fair prize earlier this year. As is the custom, each player gets to do what he will with the Cup for one day.

Andy, being a goodhearted sort, decided to share it with us, the hockey-mad masses of Middlesex. I can't resist the allure of the Cup, and will dutifully stand in line to get some face time with something generally reserved for the arms of millionaire shinnyists.

The Cup is an overpowering symbol of our national fervour, notwithstanding our painful endurance of a full-year NHL lockout. Hockey is an important touchstone, as is a general love-hate relationship for Leafs and non-Leafs fans.

Before the 500-channel universe, i.e., my formative years in the 1970s, nothing brought families together like Hockey Night in Canada on a Saturday night, when games began at 8 p.m., the boards were not peppered with advertising and Don Cherry was earning a living as a coach and not a professional blowhard.

Canada = Hockey, the Stanley Cup = Hockey, so tomorrow Strathroy = Canada. A perfect equation.

Anyone reading this in Toronto is welcome to come see the Cup. It's the closest you'll get to it in your lifetime, that is if you don't want to pay to see it in Toronto at the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Go Habs Go!!

Hail to the Chief

Fri, 27 Jul 2007 23:35:04 GMT

David Antone, insensitively referred to as "Chief" by many, passed away a few days ago in our fair town.

Dave was a kind soul, who owing to being developmentally challenged and seemingly alone, bestrode the margins of daily life around here. He was often found towing a lawn mower, part of the tools of his trade of perenially doing odd jobs for people to earn his daily bread.

Dave enjoyed simple pleasures: he enjoyed a mug of beer now and then, and he liked to cut a rug on various establishments' dance floors.

Dave happened to cut our lawn once or twice, and helped us out one afternoon years ago helping us fix our roof.

He was not mute, as was the rumor I sometimes heard. Sure, he was far from loquacious, but if you happened to share a smoke with him, or helped him out with some change, he was quick to offer his thanks.

I will miss seeing Dave, or as a friend called him, our alternative-universe mayor.

Not seeing him in his familiar purple Adidas jacket will take some getting used to. I hope he finds the rest he deserves.

I hope the rumors aren't true that he succumbed because of injuries sustained in a beating. For such a peaceful man, that fate would be tragically ironic.

If you happen to be a denizen of Facebook, I encourage you to check out the group "Friends of Chief" for other thoughts.

Happy belated Canada Day

Tue, 03 Jul 2007 01:25:24 GMT

Hey hosers, hope you enjoyed your statutory holiday celebrating the 140th anniversary of this Great White North.

Oh Canada, where hope and opportunities abound, where beer and hockey keep us mollified, where the weather is a constant source of consternation, where most of our ancestors bounded to make a new start in a pristine landscape, then got bored of the beautiful scenery and moved to the cement caverns of Toronto.

From sea to sea, the people are wondrous and joyous and all determined to make a quick financial killing working in the Alberta oilpatch.

We also contain two solitudes, English and the French who mostly populate Quebec and most civil service jobs in Ottawa.

In the east, we find the hearty maritimers, some of the nicest people you'll meet in Fort McMurray.

Don't let my feeble sarcasm make light of your own love for this land. It is a special place, and it's right that I get to watch some fireworks and get a needed day off work to celebrate its majesty.

Take off, eh!!

Checking in

Thu, 31 May 2007 04:13:05 GMT

I apologize. I haven't been writing because between the hockey playoffs, work, my band and a burgeoning ardour for Facebook, I've been distracted.

Hell, I'm a Canadian male, thus the attraction of millionaire shinnyists. Right now I'm torn between the desire to see the Cup return to a Canadian franchise, and the desire to see the Cup in Strathroy, since one of the Ducks, Andy Macdonald, happens to hail from this fair burg. After tonight's result, I think we'll be seeing it being paraded down Front St.

Work keeps me busy during the day, thus those 40 hours are off limits for blogging. Since I am a mature, responsible fellow, I strictly adhere to the business-only internet usage rule. Okay, I'll check my personal email once and a while, but don't tell.

Now that it's spring then summer, my obligation as the first trumpet player in London's St. Cecilia marching band, fills up my Friday nights and most Sundays. Then my fear of not nailing my solos makes me practice a few nights as well, again eating into blogging time.

Then there's the addiction that is Facebook. Reconnecting with those in the shadows of the past has never been easier or more entertaining. It's certainly the internet fad of the moment, garnering much mainstream media coverage. Damn you Facebook, you've made me forget MSN Spaces exists, not to mention Friendster, Yahoo, Google, Amazon, Ebay, etc. At least it's saving me from my previous predilection for online shopping.

So those and other reasons explain my absence. I hope you all are as busy and productive. If I don't blog for another month, enjoy your summer sunshine.

The miasma that is our world

Sun, 22 Apr 2007 21:33:12 GMT

I know this irregular column is called Hersh.happy.fun.time, but the last month hasn't been too fun. Derangement continues unabated, on the campus of Virginia Tech, in the streets of Baghdad, in the deserts of Afghanistan, etc, etc.

What has happened to the fair denizens of this big blue rock? Why all the hatred, why all the anesthetized souls? I don't know how to help. Hell, things aren't even too pacific in my own backyard, with a family teetering on an angry edge.

How did everyone get so isolated and depressed? Why has everyone been forced into an emotional corner? Why are the delicate among us steered into stability by prescription?

I thought all these technological and social structures were going to make us all better off. I don't see it.

Help me, my friends, strangers, the whole damn world.

Let's try this strategy: kindness.

Et tu, Brute

Thu, 15 Mar 2007 22:56:19 GMT

It's the Ides of March, the day poor Julius Caesar met his match (a stabbing knife), thereby allowing the flowering of the Roman empire. This empire (along with the Greeks) paved the way for our Western culture.

I know this, because I studied the classics back in university. Yes, it turned out to be a bunch of ephemeral, highly unemployable knowledge, but it was fun while it lasted.

Caesar was a hell of a military man, but he was getting too big for his britches, so the Roman Senate did away with him, kinda like the CIA did with JFK, if you believe that theory.

Read all about the Ides at Wiki:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ides_of_March

I still think Johnny Iedema and the Ides of March is a hell of a name for a band. Unfortunately someone thought the Ides of March would be a great name for a band too, so my friends and I will have to stick to our alternate name, Terry and the Gentlemen.

Enjoy the middle of the month, everyone. Spring is almost here, and hell, St. Paddy's is finally on a weekend this year, so all is right with the world.

Happy birthday to a heck of a guy

Tue, 06 Mar 2007 00:25:48 GMT

It's my birthday, yes. Enjoy the frigid weather, which I ordered to commemorate this blessed event. On a day like this I always enjoy reading my star sign attributes, which I've reproduced below.

It's so true, my physical stamina is almost nil, but I wouldn't consider myself delicate. So I should have been a nurse? Now you tell me!

Anyone who wants to pass on their wishes, feel free, for as you see I'm a heck of a listener.

"Astrologers consider Pisceans to be sensitive, emotional, sunny, impressionable, dreamy, creative, psychic, and mystical. Pisceans tend to be idealistic; sometimes the real world gets too harsh and ugly for them. To escape unpleasant realities, some Pisceans retreat into their own dreams and fantasies and become evasive, even deceitful. Others escape productively through charity work, the arts, religion, meditation, and solitude. Pisceans make good listeners, can see different sides of issues, and often have great sympathy for the suffering of others.

According to astrologers, typical Pisceans do not have great physical stamina. Pisceans can be delicate and vulnerable, especially when under emotional stress. However, they are capable of great strength, in part because they are adaptable and can maneuver around difficult situations. They also have the ability to take life as it comes. Professions associated with Pisces are music, film, dance, and other arts; charitable work; counseling; jobs involving water, chemicals, oil, or drugs; clergy; and nursing."

R.I.P. Leroy

Mon, 26 Feb 2007 23:51:03 GMT

Like Joanie before him, a denizen of the local watering holes has passed. Leroy, often found belly up at the bar at Copperfield's, with a mug of Keith's in one hand and a questionable pulp fiction choice in the other, has sat and harrumphed for the last time.

He was one of those marginal characters you find in every comfortable watering hole across the land. He was certainly a fixture on the scene, especially on those lazy weekend afternoons where a drink was in order, preferably on a patio enveloped by summer sunshine.

We barely ever spoke, but his presence was comforting nevertheless. I never did get his last name. He was a crumudgeonly, dishevelled type, who I'm sure had many stories to tell, but he was most happy with his nose in a book.

Though the drinking sessions for me have ebbed away, I will raise a glass to Leroy the next time I partake. Another character takes his place in the firmament.

Courage

Thu, 22 Feb 2007 00:37:45 GMT

Live as brave men; and if fortune is adverse, front its blows with brave hearts.

Cicero (106 BC -43 BC)

Good advice, Cicero. But it's been a hard week or two. Trying times are at my doorstep. But I will remain brave, and all will work out surely.

Hollywood Babylon

Fri, 09 Feb 2007 00:38:04 GMT

Anna Nicole Smith, 39, passed away under mysterious circumstances in a Florida hotel room today. Ms. Smith, famed for modelling, marrying a loaded octogenarian and then fighting his family for his estate once he passed, and feuding with two men about who was the father of her five-month-old child, has now joined the ranks of show business people who left a beautiful corpse. Sadly, her own son also passed away just three days after Smith gave birth a few months ago.

When I heard the news, I quickly thought of Robert Smigel's "Smurfette Show" parody that aired on Saturday Night Live. It was a thinly veiled parody of the bitchiest parts of "The Anna Nicole Show," Ms. Smith's reality show which aired a few years ago. I share it here with you, dear readers:

http://www.thetravisty.com/Saturday_Night_Live/wmv/The_Smurfette_Show.htm

Ms. Smith, R.I.P.

A rare kudos to Mr. Harper

Mon, 29 Jan 2007 00:10:36 GMT

Well, Mr. Harper did the right thing and took about 30 cents from each Canadian and put it in the pocket of mistreated Maher Arar. He was the Syrian-born Canadian citizen who was detained in the U.S. on advice of Canadian authorities, and shuttled off to Syria, were for a year he was summarily abused and tortured in a jail cell hardly bigger than a coffin.

Congratulations to Mr. Arar for extracting some kind of recompense. I'm sure the money, however, will not take away the nightmares, crushed psyche and general life interruption Mr. Arar has endured. But money unfortunately is how we quantify these injustices. I hope it will give him and his family a semblance of security they deserve.

Trevor, if you see Arar strolling the streets of Kamloops, say hi, give him a hearty handshake and a pat on the back. He is an unwitting victim of the post-9-11 hysteria now the unfortunate norm in our world.

In other news, a birthday wish goes out to my Aquarian friends, Darin and Roxanne, and to my sister, Sue.

Also, do yourselves a favor, and watch "Pan's Labryinth," now playing at your local multiplex. It's a glorious melding of history and fantasy, which richly deserves its six Academy Award nominations. I know some of you can't stomach subtitles, but don't let that scare you away. Don't be so provincial!

George, Stephen and Oscar

Wed, 24 Jan 2007 00:45:56 GMT

Today is an important day for the political landscape of North America: George W. Bush will deliver his sixth state of the union address tonight, while today is the first anniversary of Stephen Harper's election.

Mr. Bush, as adroitly noted on the late-night talk shows last night, will continue his battle with the English language tonight, in an effort to summon up some support in these last days of his lame duck status. I'm sure the state of the union will be strong, the U.S. will be exhorted to win in Iraq and perhaps some conciliatory remarks will be made towards the Democratic-led Congress and Senate.

Let's hope for the world's sake that Bush and his cronies don't screw up much more in these last few months. I don't know what can be done in the Iraqi quagmire, but I don't believe more troops were the answer. Ah, sadly, some more fodder for insurgents' ieds.

Meanwhile, in our fair land, Bush's buddy Harper has now survived one year with his tenuous minority government. His iron grip on his caucus has ensured that nothing untoward has been done or said. A cabinet shuffle took place to quell concerns primarily with the environment minister.

The GST was cut by 1%, though the fact that income tax was adjusted to compensate was not so widely heralded. The famous $100/month day -care benefit has been provided, in lieu of a real national day-care policy.

Overall, I'm blase about this anniversary. I'm not looking forward to many more anniversaries for these people. Anybody but Harper et al., I say.

Speaking of politics, the Academy Award nominations were announced today. I've unfortunately not been able to see many of the nominees yet, though I did see Borat, which was nominated for adapted screenplay, and An Inconvenient Truth, nominated for best documentary.

Both are Oscar worthy. Borat was a howl and screamingly subversive, while An Inconvenient Truth is a very important film with a strong message concerning environmental degradation.

For those of you who've seen more of the nominees, any suggestions for what I should see first?

I do heed the entertainment advice of the voters of the Academy Awards, unlike those clowns over at the Hollywood Foreign Press (Golden Globes) or the simpletons running the Grammys.

A new year, a new affliction

Wed, 10 Jan 2007 00:38:55 GMT

So in these days after the world has lost a dictator, the godfather of soul and an ex-president, I've gained something: after a routine medical check-up followed by some blood tests I am now the proud holder of a hypothyroid diagnosis.

It seems my little buddy in the throat is not pumping out the necessary juice to maintain my body at its best. Now I have a medical excuse for why I'm fat and can't seem to lose as much weight as my dietician implores me to. Now I know why I'm tired half the day, and why I tend to while away weekends in bed for far too long.

It's the thyroid, not me. Yippee, I get to take some more pills! Fortunately, I'm told side effects are almost nil, and the pills are simply synthetic thyroid hormone.

Sheesh, I'm not yet forty, and already I take a handful of pills each night. I hope my medicine cabinet can hold all the future pills I'm sure will be added onto the prescription roll.

On the bright side, I guess I will perk up in the next few weeks, my metabolism will improve, etc., etc. Also, the medication is reasonably priced.

As is often the case in Canadian medicine, I've yet to talk to my doctor about the situation. I was just told to get the medication and then come in for an appointment and further blood tests in February. As always, it's always the drugs first and the discussion afterwards. You don't think doctors are in cahoots with the pharmaceutical industry?

At least I can fend for myself on the internet for information until I see the Doc. Thanks, WebMd, my real MD is all booked up until six weeks from now. Ah, the sad state of modern healthcare.

Wish me well.

A new year, new hopes

Sun, 31 Dec 2006 21:30:21 GMT

Happy New Year, everyone! I hope you all have brighter times in 2007, and make it a year to remember.

Keep those resolutions, if you're so inclined. Be nicer to those around you. Pray for the world, it needs our help.

Putting my paltry pics to shame

Fri, 22 Dec 2006 00:35:37 GMT

I thought I'd share a truly inspiring holiday light display. My pics of the neighborhood are now cowering in shame. Happy holidays, everyone.

http://www3.thestar.com/cgi-bin/star_static.cgi?section=news&page=/Videos/061218_weiss_lights_sm.html

Christmas spirit

Fri, 15 Dec 2006 00:33:24 GMT

I'm starting to get the feeling that something special is on the horizon. A few cards, some cheery emails and the surrender of our store's cd changer exclusively over to holiday music, and yes, I'm starting to feel Christmasy.

Beyond all previous experience, I've even managed to almost complete my shopping early. Only one person remains on my list, and that will be discharged this weekend.

I've just received a coveted invitation to the 17th annual Christmas Cartoon fest, a night that features all our favorites, from the sweet and sentimental to the acerbic and dark. This holiday tradition is a sure spirit lifter, and neatly brings all the cherished cartoons of our youth and later life into one neat package, thereby not forcing us to try to catch them separately throughout the tv holiday schedule.

This year I get a luxurious 4-day holiday break, which is another reason to feel blessed. Work's great and all, but a nice break is going to be fantastic.

Along with Christ's birth, I also get to celebrate a few birthdays of family and friends over the next couple of weeks.

So yes, I'm ready to let the glad tidings wash over me.

And to you three readers, Merry Christmas. I love you all. Consider this your Christmas card.

This mortal coil

Wed, 06 Dec 2006 03:12:49 GMT

I've caught myself feeling down, I know spurned on by the news that a contemporary passed away a few days ago. That's not usually supposed to happen to someone in their thirties, and it's just immensely sad.

He was not a friend, though we were cordial to each other in our school days. However, a few friends of mine knew him better over the ensuing years. This young man was a well respected teacher in London, who will no longer be around to mold young people in his fine image.

When I knew him those many years ago he was an intelligent, sensitive soul, and a mean trumpet player who sat beside me in the school band. I can only imagine he maintained his good qualities into his adult life.

May he find bliss in the next life.

Dion-mania!

Tue, 05 Dec 2006 00:22:59 GMT

That title is a joke. New Liberal leader Stephane Dion does not have the Trudeau charisma. He's professiorial surely, but apparently with none of the eccentricities and haughtiness of Pierre. Nevertheless, I hope he will be a good choice.

He's saying all the right things, with economic prosperity, the fostering of social programs and environmental sustainability being his three planks. He was an environment minister, so perhaps he can turn our ship towards environmental oblivion around.

Already of course the naysayers abound, with the belief he's anathema in Quebec at the top of the list. Guess what, if Rae was elected, he would probably have had a hard time in Ontario, the most vote rich area in Canada. Meanwhile the luster of Ignatieff was ebbing away each day. He would have had a hard time explaining away why he spent so much time outside of Canada. Also, his foreign policy pronouncements were sometimes iffy.

I think Dion has quite an upside: he's intelligent, experienced and seems good-hearted.

Another complaint I've heard is his workmanlike English skills. Doesn't anyone remember Chretien? I can understand Dion much better than Chretien, who nevertheless eked out a nice political career.

Harper, we're coming for you! Enjoy 22 Sussex while you can, because it won't be yours too much longer.

In like a lion

Sat, 02 Dec 2006 00:10:04 GMT

A few days ago I was going to gloat about how nice our weather had been, but thought better about it because that would be tempting weather.

Sure enough, it was cold and blustery today, so now we can join you in Western Canada in cursing the skies. The wind was just a menace today, regularly putting us in the dark at work this afternoon.

I am not a fan of this particular season we're entering. I stopped enjoying tobaggoning and outdoor skating years ago, so all that is left to me is the hope for Spring.

Stay warm everybody.

Wholesome fun

Sun, 26 Nov 2006 22:26:25 GMT

I spent Saturday doing a few things that were good for the soul. I eschewed taking in satiric, mean-spirited movies and instead took in the irony-free show Superdogs at the JLC in the afternoon. Ellen had invited me, so I accompanied her and her parents.

Superdogs is basically a dog show where many cute dogs run races, jump very high, go through obstacle courses, catch frisbees and other sweet things. It's strictly family-approved, with many young kids in the audience, some of whom were called onto the floor to participate in the fun. The action was narrated by a smarmy old man in a powder blue suit, followed by a shiny silver one after half time.

It was good for some laughs and some aw shucks moments.

Wholesomeness continued Saturday night as my band and I were part of the entertainment at a Holy Cross church fundraiser. In an attempt to make some money to pay for hymnals, we were called on the play three pieces, part of an evening lineup that included many choirs, a few Portuguese folk music groups and a couple of fellows on acoustic guitars, one of whom played strange Portuguese versions of House of the Rising Sun and Light My Fire.

There was a large crowd on hand, so between the door charge, the food and drink purchased and the raffle tickets sold, the church should find itself with some top notch hymnals. You're welcome, Holy Cross.

But as it sometimes happens at these things, the veneer of wholesomeness was stripped off as each successive adult beverage was enjoyed. I found myself a bit lit up. Hey, the drinks were free (bought by the band directors), so it couldn't be helped.

I hope everyone had a good Saturday too, wholesome or not.

Michael Richards goes nuts!

Wed, 22 Nov 2006 01:24:51 GMT

Our beloved Michael Richards, aka Cosmo Kramer of Seinfeld fame, lost his marbles last Friday night at a comedy club in L.A. It seems a heckler pushed Mr. Richards over the edge and he erupted into a firestorm of racial epithets. Check it out for yourself:

http://www.tmz.com/2006/11/20/kramers-racist-tirade-caught-on-tape/

It's vile stuff, so I hope Richards has some savings socked away from his Seinfeld days. He's going to have to mount a strong public relations battle to recover his reputation. Richards was on Letterman last night to apologize. His contrition was palpable, but he's got a Sisyphan mountain to climb to get out of this one.

Oh Cosmo, why so angry? You would think a pro comedian would have heard heckling before and could take it in stride.

By the way, who let the guy in with the video camera? Must everything today be caught on tape? I guess that's great for us, the pop culture voyeurs.

"I like you. Do you like me?"

Mon, 20 Nov 2006 01:54:46 GMT

I am happy that I was finally able this weekend to see the cultural phenomenon of the moment, Borat.

I laughed, I squirmed and I finally got to see the famous drunken frat boys spewing racist, sexist and xenophobic filth. The Romanian gypsies I thought came off better than some of the Americans.

There has sprung up a cottage industry of litigation against this movie. Certainly the naive Borat character manages to elicit some strong reactions from those he meets and interviews. A few subjects of his satire come off looking like fools, but didn't they see the cameras pointed at them?

More seriously, however, have been a litany of death threats in the U.S. against Sacha Baron Cohen, the actor who portrays the Kazakh journalist on a mission. It is sad there are so many out there who cannot differentiate between documentaries and comedies. I guess some Americans don't get the joke, perhaps like those folks at the rodeo who started booing Borat as he massacred the Star Spangled banner. Then again, perhaps I could be upset if I was duped into a fake interview or situation that was then immortalized in a successful film.

What Borat is, if you haven't heard through the media or on numerous blogs, is a social satire on America. The character was originally born on Da Ali G show, Baron Cohen's hilarious send up of a dim-witted Brit who is in love with and emulates hip hop culture. I highly recommend finding this show too.

Borat travels the U.S. trying to find the soul of America, with the final destination being a meeting with Pamela Anderson, who we all know is a Canadian bombshell.

I think The Globe and Mail review of the movie is the best encapsulation I've found, so I'll stop trying to pretend I'm a movie reviewer and leave it to them:

"With Sacha Baron Cohen touring the wilds of America, using his fictitious Kazakh journo as a fifth columnist for his invasive humour, Borat at its best is pure satiric genius, the Swiftian kind that has you busting a gut with laughter even while checking your conscience for implicating flaws. Since satire with sharp teeth is virtually extinct in our self-lampooning age, the movie can be forgiven its occasional lapses into Jackass inanity. Then again, Jackass inanity fans will fall in love with the lapses, which means the result is pretty much a win-win situation. When Borat is good, it's very, very good, and when it's bad, it's box-office gold."

Civic vote `06

Tue, 14 Nov 2006 02:06:47 GMT

Ontarians, I hope tonight you get the local governments you wanted and deserve. They say it's good to think globally, but act locally.

I voted by mail two weeks ago, surely an anticlimactic way, but how our municipality was forced to do it this time. They say this way cuts back on costs and improves participation.

I hope they're right, but I wish I could go to the polls again, as voting was intended to be. It's just not the same by mail, especially with reports that many ballots were spoiled by not being signed or otherwise incorrectly filled out. Stop monkeying with my basic democratic right.

Anyway, good luck to all candidates, but especially to my favorites. Pelkman and Brennan, give `em hell! Mel, be well.

Lest we forget

Sat, 11 Nov 2006 23:52:35 GMT

On this Remembrance Day (or Veterans Day for our American friends), that most dour and heart rending observance of the year, let us surely think of fallen heroes and those left behind with their horrific memories.

But let us also hope for a day when peace can take hold and war memories can secede into the dusty shelves of history.

Aren't we supposed to learn from the mistakes of history. It seems the human race is doomed to repeat its mistakes, with wars being at the top of that list.

Perhaps one day we can have a special observance for peace and harmony. Perhaps we can trade in the plaintive wail of pipers for joyful shrieking and dancing in the streets and public squares.

Dare to dream.