The music + kids = joy! fundraiser for The Children’s Breakfast Club was wonderful‼ I was thrilled to see so many lovely people out & fulfilling a great cause.

The Children’s Breakfast Clubs will benefit from your support. People care– and I’m inspired to continue the initiative because of the love I continually receive. The event was a success and raised over $800– and the donations are still coming in. Love it!

Thank you to everyone who came out for a good time, congrats to the winners of some really cool prizes, and I hope you’ll continue the journey with me…

a MASSIVE THANK YOU to the following sponsors for their generous prize donations…

Avon
Fusicology Toronto
Jenny Green Communications Inc.
Kelly’s Cakes
Milestones on Four
Mixed Signals Music
OM Records
Parkdale BIA
Sony/BMG
Solid Garage
The Main for Women of Toronto
Universal Music
Wayfarer’s Insurance Brokers Ltd.

Love & Appreciation to the following generous donors…
Aisha Wickham Thomas
Brian Cave
Darlene Gunness
Devon Matthew
Frank Litorco
Jeromina Juan
Jolie Chen
Leanda Kirwan
Natasha Carr
Ned Ma
Rhonda Bowen
Wayne Wilson

a Warm & Special Thank You to…
Conor Kelly– who pulled a 28,000 lb bus in October to feed children and spoke about his initiative, ‘Pulling for the Hungry.’ We loved that he joined us to pull a great set of winners!
http://www.pullingforthehungry.com/

& last but certainly not least…
An endless stream of love to my beautiful team of volunteers– who helped get the word out for such an important cause, took strong initiative & literally made this thing happen with me. I love you!

Silent Auction items donated by Fusicology Toronto: Bill Withers, ‘Still Bill’ vinyl and Stevie Wonder ‘Innervisions’ limited edition vinyl.

THE  BREAKFAST PROJECT!

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and yet some children still don’t have what we so often take for granted. This goal of this little shindig is to raise funds to donate to The Children’s Breakfast Club!

On November 14th, spend an afternoon eating, mixin’ ‘n minglin’, visiting old & new friends, and celebrate the spirit of supporting a great cause! The goal is to raise at least $2000 for The Breakfast Club and in return you’ll have several chances to win numerous musical prizes courtesy of some very generous sponsors and private donors.

The party will take place in the lounge area of Milestones Restaurant at Dundas Square.  Yummy treats will provided by Milestones, a custom designed cake by Kelly’s Cakes and there will be several draws for HOT prizes! Enter to win music and other amazing prizes! All donations from the draw will go to The Breakfast Club!

It all happens at Milestones on4 [Toronto Life Building/Yonge & Dundas], on Saturday, November 14, 2009, between 2-5pm.

A BIG THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING DONORS

Avon
Fusicology Toronto
Kelly’s Cakes
L3 Magazine
Milestones on Four
Mixed Signals Music
OM Records
Solid Garage
Sony/BMG
Universal Music
Wayfarer Insurance Broker’s Ltd.

Last week, I attended the annual AGM for the U of T Alumni Association. It was 300 of us packed in a room, sadly, not there to listen to the budget breakdown or the newly elected Board members, but for the guest speaker Dr. James Orbinski, co-founder of Dignitas International, and past president of Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctor’s Without Borders).

Although I was immediately moved by his lecture and had to tell everyone about it, it has taken me a week (as it does usually with moments like this) to digest the material completely.  And in light of recent world events, his words resonate with me even more so.

So much is taken for granted.  Specifically this mystical entitlement to freedom,  idealized political theorems and this notion of not only equality, but also equity.  Orbinski reflected upon his life and work, with a speech touching upon several relevant topics. He spoke of those “entitlements,” as it pertained to the notion of citizenship and what it means to be accountable for each other as humans beings. To the attribution of human dignity and what that signifies, and lastly, global health and what ‘we’ are doing to help those less fortunate.

I’d naïvely argue that the word “accountable” is quite simple. However, I’d lose. The word “accountable” has become, an ‘each person debate and develop their own unit of measure,’ which itself seems unfair and unjust to those who are dependent on a fairness and equity. Can there really be a universal standard of accountability that ‘we’ take on, or is that too a utopic ideal?

In explaining the meaning of being an ‘accountable citizen’ of the world, Orbinski explored a few points:

1. Equity is a practical hallmark for a respect for human dignity – where there is no distinction. Equity is organized. And similarly, a lack of equity is too, organized.  So, what happens when this equity is repeatedly and systematically defective?

2. With regard to an ‘engaged citizenship’ Orbinski says, “Dignity begins with seeing the saneness of self,” and compares the process to an ‘Imperfect Project’ (like a science experiment, with out perfect outcomes or controlled variables). How can we restore dignity to those whom have been stripped of rights, and of voice?

3. Hope lies in what we actually do, not in utopian dreams. (It occurs to me that this whole exercise is a ‘utopic’ way of explaining what we know we ought to do.)

4. The right kind of politics can be effective. ‘Listen first, act next.’ My faith in politics is stunted at the moment. From local governments, to foreign governments. And yet we still ask and rely on them to do, act, and help.

5. There’s no suffering worse than suffering alone. Another debated word. Another word that comes to mind: empathy.

To cope with the last point, Orbinski wrangles upon the difference in definitions between optimism & hope. The former thought based on reasonable outcomes based on action; the latter, that a certain action is right and makes sense regardless of outcome. Though he’s seen the worst of what humans are be capable of, he’s also seen the best and continues to be optimistic and have hope for the future saying, “…hoping creates optimism in choices.”

After spitting out a good 10 minutes of  ridiculous statistics of certain pharmaceuticals, deaths due to smog, west nile, heatwaves, lack of water, lack of medication, the realities of disease, stats of money: money people make, money to save lives, money to start organizations, money to underwrite illness, money for dignity and money for equity – Orbinski holds on to hope and ends with this positive yet empowering message, “…that ideas are more powerful than economy and armies.”

And therein lies our call to action.

music + kids = joy! 2.O … PLANNING IS UNDER WAY‼

This year’s event will be very reminiscent of last year’s with a chilled atmosphere, wonderful company AND again … amazing prizes for you to win! The scheduled date is Saturday, November 14th, 2009 – and because I’d like to avoid unnecessary heart murmurs and elevated blood pressure – I’m starting 8 months in advance instead of 5 weeks!

Keeping in mind the spirit of the cause, helping the kiddies, this year’s event will be raising money for The Children’s Breakfast Club. The Club serves up to 4000 breakfast meals to children each week, and provides a wide array of  educational and extra curricular activities for them as well. It’s my suspicion that with a  struggling economy, children’s diets have become severely at risk. Let’s help maintain a healthy menu for all children!

If you’d like to help with the fundraiser somehow, feel free to contact me. There are plenty of small ways you can be involved!

SAVE THE DATE!!

I’ll be keeping you posted!

– BEFORE – DURING – AFTER -
“This is the album I’ve always wanted to make, but wasn’t able to in the past.  It’s much more musical and spherical. I’m very happy with it!”

Photo by Libelia De Splenter

I became a dedicated BRISKEY fan years ago, with that feisty vibe from ‘Cucumber Lodge,’ songs like, Conchita’s Cabin, Galactic Jack, and Lovelier Without Makeup – which I’m still in love with! They were funky little secrets that I had magically stumbled upon, through another Belgium composer, Buscemi.

The man behind BRISKEY is Gert Keunen. He’s in my top 10 favourite composers list. He’s also a professor who last year found himself working on his Ph.D in Sociology, as well as completing his new solo album ‘before-during-after.’ In comparison to his other albums, these songs feel slower, darker and more dramatic, but still tell an imaginative story.

BRISKEY’s sound is unique – jazz-esque themes, resembling cinematic scores coupled with groovy beats. His journey began over a decade ago with experimentation of the fusion of jazz and electronica. He knows how to merge the electronic and acoustic – perfecting what would become his signature sound. His message was: ‘Getting people to swing.’ His early studio recordings incorporated samples from big bands from the 30’s and 40’s, and now expanding on that characteristic sound, he’s formed his own full Briskey Big Band for his arrangements. What a great idea – keepin’ it real!  He now tours with the 14 musicians, performing long sets of songs from past albums along with the new album released March 2, 2009.

Next step:  BRISKEY & BIG BAND live!

Music from ‘before-during-after’:
www.myspace.com/briskeymusic
ww.last.fm/user/briskeymusic

FREE DOWNLOAD: www.briskey.be

Things just suck for some right now.  I realize it’s gloomy, but chin up Ok?  I laugh every time someone says we’re in ‘unique times.’ Yeah, you think?  It’s clearly an understatement, but it’s beginning to feel as though our little economic situation has subconsciously given people the permission to unleash their silent inner demons.  All of a sudden, some people feel the need to act out their warped id – and indirectly blame it on the dismal economy.  Suddenly times have become so drastic, that they’ve forgotten common courtesy and can’t be bothered with simple manners.  I’m not buying.

If you can’t be sincerely pleasant – at least pretend. It’s like they say, “The best way to be happy – make someone else happy.”  So try it, the next time you want to be a grump.

SYMPTOMS: Massive migraine-esque headaches, extensive lethargic behaviour, bitterness towards the world at large, tendency to snap at friends, acquaintances, relatives and various random strangers, reluctance to leave the condo/apartment/house; or a variation thereof.

DIAGNOSIS: Slight depression due to prolonged cold weather, and the current “economic situation.”

PRESCRIPTION: A week on a beach.

However, if that’s not possible – a dose of the following may help:

FIRESIDE – CULTURE WEEK | March 2 – 7, 2009, along Queen West.  Enjoy a week-long celebration of various Art, food, live music, comedy, spoken word etc. Performances are scheduled at various outlets such as, Poor John’s Café, The Parkdale Drink, Rustic Cosmo Café, Gallery 1313, and Studio 1686.

Visit www.parkdalevillagebia.com for a full list of the week’s events.

PROGNOSIS: Prolonged exposure to such activities may alleviate melancholy, grumpiness and general disinterest; depending on dosage. (Note: the meds won’t work if you don’t take it.)

Feel better!

Hello & Happy New Year!

I’ve been on a small hiatus from blogging – but for a very good reason! I’ve been busy canvassing for donations for The United Way and then subsequently initiated my own music fundraiser in November called music + kids = joy! This initiative has since raised $620 (and counting, as people are still making donations!) for The Children’s Wish Foundation.

It was a very inspirational Fall 2008, and with its own synergy, one thing lead to another and I found myself deep in the midst of fundraising. The passion for the fundraiser came from the love of music and the need to give back to something positive. In a matter of weeks, friends, colleagues and industry folk, including: record labels, djs/producers, musicians, artists/writers and promoters, generously donated music, tickets and art for random draws. The event itself took place at Milestones on FOUR at Yonge and Dundas on December 20th, 2008. Congrats to all the winners!

There were a couple of large objectives of this fundraiser, one was to raise funds for The Foundation, and another was to raise awareness for such a worthwhile cause. The idea that people are still donating to the Foundation means that people do want to give, if given the opportunity to.

It was an exciting 5 weeks! Everyone came together and miraculously got the job done. I’m absolutely thrilled to this moment, and couldn’t have asked for better friends or for more support from the music community, in Toronto, Canada, and internationally. It was truly a global effort!

The Dreamteam! (LtoR: Kristen Zemlak, Amphy Saygnavong, Marcus McLean, Leanda Kirwan, Cheyenne Baptiste and Staffeen Thompson)

Silent Auction Grand Prize #1: Autographed print by Robert Small, contributions by Gilles Peterson, Nick Holder, Joi Cardwell and CDs courtesy of Universal Urban.

Silent Auction Grand Prize #2: ABBA Gold CD, autographed by 2 ABBA members; donated by Paul Oswell.

According to Moses Znaimer, these are some of the characteristics of the Zoomer:

Zoomer – noun.

1. The boomer with zip.
2. The boomer with loads of money.
3. The boomer who seeks thrills and adventure.
4. The boomer who has “been there, done that” – now wants quality experiences.
5. The boomer who is smart and computer/tech savvy.
6. Estimated age range: 45+

According to Znaimer, the Zoomer is the new audience. Everyone knows how much they have, what they want, and to some degree how they’re going to get it!

But apparently they’re being ignored by marketers. And I would agree to some degree. Our society is obsessed with youth and pre-youth, and we’re completely forgetting who has the real cash.

That said, the Zoomer exists because they were able to acquire that wealth within a consistent and more or less seamless career. It was hard work in a different economic climate. Their career transitions made sense. Nowadays, the number of people in their 20’s and 30’s with multiple degrees and years of job experience, but still can’t settle on a career (or find a job in some cases) is disturbing and discouraging. Our transitions do not make sense. And our economic climate sucks.

But the Zoomer is still largest demographic with that type of endless (it seems) disposable cash! They were essential in defining an era, and now have become the ignored and forgotten.

SO WHAT?

Znaimer thinks the focus will shift towards the Zoomer, rather he’s calling for a movement. Hire a Zoomer, market to a Zoomer. And while the evidence may indicate that it’s quite possible, I doubt marketers are that fickle.

Obviously, I challenge the broader definition of the Zoomer. I take it with a few grains of salt. I think there are plenty in that age range who do not fit that description, for various reasons and circumstances. Also, the concept of “thrill-seeking” varies from person to person, does it not? I mean, what’s a thrill these days? Not only does it vary from generation to generation, but it changes from person to person. And if the Zoomer has already “been there and done that” – what EXACTLY is a thrill for them? What’s left? I think this statement applies to all ages, not just the Zoomers.

MY THOUGHT…

As always, I see the transition become more of equilibrium – a balance in the score. Maybe there’ll be a change in the quality of goods, services, experiences, art, culture, music, etc. I hope there IS a massive movement – and like everything else is society, the pendulum WILL eventually shift to accommodate The Overlooked (notice the capitals).

Ode to TIFF

I’m gladly on your fringe—
though the vortex of you is becoming more & more seductive.
You are chaos.
And though I am on the outside looking in
I still feel the tireless rippling effects of your presence.
I felt it two weeks ago when everyone was preparing for your arrival…
and will feel it well into October when you’ve strayed
(possibly) leaving me hollow
& empty.
I have exhausted my festival fever with you.
The lavish.
The indulgence.
The glamour.
The expense.
The thought of those, too.
The spare-no-expense. The R.S.V.P.’s.
The incessant state of “What the?” coupled with,
a slight hysterical laughter of, “You’re kiddin’ me right?”
When I see the grand total.
You are my fortune, and I’m penniless.
I’ve started to contemplate giving up sleep because of you…
because why sleep when you can enjoy the hedonism that you deliver?
Why sleep when you can
I’m trying to reconcile your value to my day-to-day
your madness to my sanity.
But I sincerely can’t—
because I have to get up really early tomorrow morning
for work…