NUFF TINGS A GWAAN IN T-DOT

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(We decided to start a blog to inform our readers on some of the lively events in Toronto, Canada.)
Week Ending October 15,  2008.  .  . Between Friends: Part 2 —  Unclaimed money .  .  . Guess by now some of you may be wondering why this platform of giving back to Canadians what is rightfully theirs. Firstly,  love of people. Secondly, why are so many people living in poverty, old people eating dog or cat foods because they can't afford to buy food to eat, homelessness, etc. while all this money (your money) is being held "dormant" in a trust account. Canada is a rich country in all resources, especially its people. Yet, it is a shame to see how we treat our own .  .  .So lets get down to business, there are a lot more monies to "claim" .  .  . Revenue Canada is holding an estimated $25 million in unclaimed tax refunds since 1990. There is no time limit on claims, but no interest is paid on amounts refunded. If you have any un-cashed cheques in your possession, Revenue Canada wants you to cash them, as they are unexpirable. Privacy legislation prevents Revenue Canada from publishing  owner names. Contact your tax office for additional information or file your tax return with your current address .  .  . The Province of Ontario does not have an unclaimed property program. The "Unclaimed Intangible Property Act" was enacted by the provincial Legislature in 1989 but never proclaimed. While a comprehensive unclaimed property law is not in force in Ontario, the Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee does administer property that belonged to dissolved corporations that were incorporated in Ontario. The Office also administers certain estates on a last resort basis - generally where the deceased died in Ontario (or was an Ontario resident who died elsewhere) without a will and without known adult heirs in Ontario who were willing and able to administer the estate. For inquiries about a dissolved corporation, provide any of the following if available: corporation name, date of incorporation, corporation number and a description of any assets apparently owned by the dissolved corporation. For inquiries about an estate, provide the full name of the deceased, with date of death if available, and any other family information which could show your connection to the deceased. This office will supply information about an estate only to those persons who can demonstrate a blood relation to the deceased. The Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee (OPGT) is part of Ontario's Ministry of the Attorney General. The OPGT also plays a role in protecting mentally incapable people by managing their finances. We'll talk more about the OPGT another time .  .  . Although the law stipulates that all these Trustees/Trust Accounts have websites to publicize the names of persons/businesses with unclaimed funds, getting the names online has been slow .  .  . Anyone laughing yet? Over $12 Billion in Unclaimed Money .  .  . May get my office back soon, where service may be more readily accessible .  .  . Until next week, Peace!
 
Week Ending October 2,  2008.  .  . Between Friends: Let’s talk economic (money). Christmas is coming and most of us have debt up to our ears. So with that in mind, Santa is arriving early to let you into a little secret — You may be richer than you think you are. Listen up, the Bank of Canada has reported that as at the end of December 2007, approximately 938,000 unclaimed balance, worth some $320 million, were on the Bank’s books. Over 86% of these were under $500. The oldest balance dates back to 1900. An "unclaimed balance" is a Canadian-dollar deposit or negotiable instrument, issued or held by a federally regulated bank or trust company. It can be in the form of a deposit account, bank draft, certified cheque, deposit receipt, money order, GIC, term deposit, credit card balance, or traveller's cheque .  .  . Next, ever declared bankruptcy? Most of us have at one time or another. Nothing to be ashamed of. Well, the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy has stated at their website that “there are currently 68,806 records in their database with total amount of unclaimed dividends of over $12 Billion. [Repeat $12 Billion]. The largest single amount of an unclaimed dividend is $179,636. . . Canada 3000 Airline declared bankruptcy and left many travelers stranded. As at November, 2007 about $758,000 are owed to people who had flights with Canada 3000 Holidays. About 2,700 cheques were returned because claimants either moved or changed their names .  .  . Actors (i.e. everyone who has ever worked on a production), ACTRA has a list of unclaimed payments cheques and is looking for you too  .  .  . Musicians, singers, etc, SOCAN has outstanding royalty cheques and has you “missing in action.” For those singers/musicians who think that it is unnecessary to join SOCAN. Well, if your music is getting airplay, SOCAN may have collected royalties for you — singer not a member no address to send cheques. As of today, the links are in working order, but they may change .  .  . There are many more institutions, e.g. insurance companies that have large “trust accounts” with your money. So, what are you waiting on, start your search, talk to a legal representative, etc. Get that money, spend some, invest some — Never know, Christmas may come early. Not everyone can win the lottery. Tell a friend or foe — "Helping to Put Dollars in Canadians' Pocket  One Dollar At A Time" .  . Happy Birthday Devon P. wherever you are! Missing you. Luv, your sis .  .  . Until next week, Peace!
 
Week Ending September 18, 2008.  .  . Girlfriend Talk:  Came across a situation recently, where a married man is having an affair with this beautiful, single, unemployed woman. She is receiving social assistance (welfare) and lives in subsidized housing. They have been having a relationship for, we’ll say, four years. The woman became pregnant and they both agreed that she would have the baby. However, she cannot put his name on the birth certificate as the father. The man fully intends to support his child, but without his wife’s knowledge. Her “workers” continually ask her who is the father, but she refused to give his name. What these “workers” proceeded to do is, contact one of the many “children welfare services” and informed them that this individual is unable to care for the child she is carrying. Consequently, at the time of birth, “children welfare” took the child away immediately.  Why? Because she would not tell them who is her “baby daddy”, therefore, this child falls into the category of “father unknown”. Do these sanctimonious, arrogant, devious, Bible beating individuals think that every woman has to be married to be a good parent? By revealing this man’s name, she would be destroying his immediate family and possible ruin their relationship. So they placed her in a situation to choose – baby daddy or your child?   “Heads or tails”, she looses. In this situation, the most likely person to protect this child is the father, but he can’t come upfront. The woman is left empty-handed and with a good relationship gone terribly wrong [mash-up]. Should she eventually establish another relationship with someone else, over time or marry, the “children services” have to approve this “new man”. These “charity” societies are destroying our families and sexual relationships, then they come around seeking “donations” from us so they can continue to destroy our lives. Charities are nothing more than liabilities to everyone. Do they actually help "needy" individuals? 10% or 20% of the time? There are many men and women in Canada living the single, lonely life in an effort to keep their children. [Kicker: The foster parent taking care of this woman's child may be the man’s wife!!!]  Say what??? .  .  . Until next week, Peace!
 
Week Ending September 10, 2008 .  . . Between Friends: As you may have read in previous articles on this page, The Society has temporary custody of my daughter's son. Initially, they advised us it would only be for 30 days. Thirty days has turned into over 90 days and court dates. So, what do we have to do to bring this child home swiftly? We were advised by one of their "professionals" that if my daughter wasn't at the residence, they would release the baby to me. The "professional" who approached me was advised that there would be "no option". My daughter is not going anywhere. Therefore, they  proceeded to meet  with her separately, to convince her of the plan. Unaware, my daughter quietly removed herself from her home for her baby's sake. This was ill-advice due to other outstanding legal issues. The professional's fiduciary duty was to advise her of the consequences, as they were aware of the situation. On the other hand, she thought she was assisting in a very complex and legal proceedings and listened to an uninformed "professional". Summing up the last 6 weeks, it is presumed that you got her out one way or the other. So where is the baby??  Families who find themselves in crisis are assigned a group of people to assist. However, some of these people collude and manipulate to create more dysfunction and chaos than solutions.  Occasionally, these "professionals" would advise others in the family not to inform other family members of their conversations. Is the truth incomprehensible?. . . . Hidden, seized or stolen money a joke?!! No joke or "assessment" lasts three (3) years or run  indefinitely. Only "mentally ill" individual(s) would watch a person go homeless, cashless, hungry, isolated, cold, shoeless, family in crisis, etc. and say it was a "joke". Why? Weren't sexually attracted to you? Maybe you were moving too slowly while the express lane is more my style, all the while legally hustling to make a living -- welfare is not for me -- "high maintenance" is my lifestyle. Someone find this "sick" person(s) and call in the "army" to "assess them" .  .  . Until next week, Peace!
 
Week Ending September 4, 2008.  . . Between Friends: Dilemma: the System’s guidelines for mental illness stipulates that anyone that smoke cigarettes, marijuana, drink alcohol or use any type of recreational drugs is ‘supposedly” mentally ill. Yet, the majority of case workers, social workers, psychiatrist, doctors, security personnel, etc. whose job it is to determine a person’s “mental competency” use one or more of these drugs at one time or another. Therefore, based on the aforementioned, how can a “mentally ill” professional determine another person’s mental competency? Do you see where this is going? For example, if an individual were asked a series of questions by one of these professionals to determine their mental competency, and their replies were not to the expected standards, then that person is declared “mentally ill.” However, some of these same professionals were deemed ‘mentally ill” and unable to gain employment elsewhere before they began working in the System. It is also quite possible that a case worker may have suggested that they attend school and study “social work,” whereby they ended up in the System as “assessors”, “case worker”, “social worker”, etc. These are the professionals who are assigned to submit observation reports on your life and mine, at times secretly gathering information from uninformed persons who have no personal knowledge of your person – mostly “hearsay.” Now, some of these professionals may have been unable to manage their own daily lives before, and is now assigned the task of assessing us and submitting reports and recommendations that affect our lives. Others may never have had a family, bought a home, hold a full time job, bank accounts, etc. – in short never had to “multi-task” or handle assets, to understand the value of the “estate” or the person they are evaluating. In conversations with some, they usually suggest selling or giving away the valuable assets or the money to "church" or "charity".  Presumably, managing the assets/money is too much headache. While others invariably suggests that one should not work if a family is involved. [Fact: Three years ago, one of the companies operated by me had a signed contract with another company that would generate revenue of at least $1 million/year for the next five years. The company was shutdown – mail stop arriving, telephone stopped ringing, client base dried up. They recommended “welfare". No wonder it is said that Canada is giving away money. Currently, the cheques are being deposited in a “trust account” while we live in squalor.] Insanity isn’t it! But these are the same people attending court or elsewhere giving evidence as “experts” on our behalf  .  .  . Until next week, Peace!
 
Week Ending 8/13/08 .  .  . Canada Crying . . . Tears from parents (incl extended family) who have involuntarily given up their child(ren) to foster parents –- to live in foster homes being cared by strangers. . . Some of these foster parents only want babies . . . so when the child(ren) reach the youthful age (10 years old and upwards) –- those troublesome years . . . they are no longer wanted or that home is only for babies and toddlers . . . these children are then shuffled off to another foster home . . . in most cases, the child(ren) don’t always understand why they are leaving their home and the foster parent they called “mom and dad” –- they are lied to (can’t take care of you anymore, etc.) . . . [Where are the birth parents by now –- those who have fought long and hard to reclaim this child(ren)? Given up from emotional and physical burn-out –- which is what The Society wanted in the first place . . . No! Children are not litters from a dog or a cat that are given away because there are too many to mouths to feed . . . they are family (we stay together) . . . you don’t give away anything of value . . . families are valuable . . . we love each other even when we fight . . .it’s the competitive nature of mankind] . . . In the majority of cases these children leave behind friends from school, the neighbourhood, doctors, etc . . . they are displaced and feel unwanted . . .emotionally scared for life, sometimes showing their frustration by throwing temper tantrums . . . However, a closer look at The Society's  “books” may uncover evidence of adoptions being conducted (legal or illegal) at the expense of these vulnerable women, and show cause for concern . . .Women (especially single ones) are placed into vulnerable positions in an effort to “steal” their child(ren) . . . The Societies then go to court with convoluted stories about these families to be granted legal guardian of this child(ren) . . . “mental illness” is the highest on the list . . . then there is “insufficient money to support the family” [no money to register birth of child], next is “father unknown”, “address unknown” and the list goes on . . . most of these inexperienced “social workers” have never parented a child(ren), therefore, how are they capable of formulating judgment on how one is to care for a child(ren)? . . . But it is their report the court system takes into consideration when making their final decision . . . usually the parent(s) have no voice – legal aid certificates are very difficult to acquire (therefore, they loose before they even walk into court). . . In the end, it is about money on all levels . . . the majority of foster parents and homes are only doing the job for the money –- fill the homes and beds with children . . . then when they become a problem or too ill to care for, transfer them somewhere else –- but parenting is long-term . . .we as a family work together through it all . . . My guess is that if the “Brady Bunch” were to exist today most “case workers” in the social service system would consider them “dysfunctional” and dismantle the family . . .but there was love in that home –- lots of it –- its those stories and memories that we jokingly share with friends and others as adults . . . even the days when we wore each others clothes –- sometimes a size or two too big or small . . . The Canadian family is a precious commodity, its time to protect them on all levels .  .  . Until next week, Peace!
 
Week ending 8/8/08 .  .  .Between Friends: On a daily basis we come in contact with people in your city and mine who are considered "ill" –- my coined phrase is "walking sick" . . .  some are homeless and living in shelters, others are your co-workers who might be dealing with domestic problems (wife/husband, alcoholic, etc.) . . . Let's talk about the homeless and shelter living –- most of us may never experience this type of living conditions –- however as society ages it is possible that someone may recommend this space as home or those who "serve and protect" may also suggest it for one reason or another . . . Had the opportunity of sharing space with some of these people and listen up –- a shelter is unacceptable living conditions . . . Firstly, your accommodation is shared with alcoholics, drug addicts, drug dealers, mentally ill, disabled, schizophrenics, geriatics, people with sleep disorders, etc. –- one condition that is immediately identified of these individuals are "sleeplessness" –- nights in a shelter are very noisy –- fights, very loud talking, banging doors, etc. (some things too delicate for this website) or sleeping with one-eye open to avoid people stealing your clothes or money –- so a full night sleep is impossible –- by morning around 5am there are chores, then by 6 or 7am breakfast is served, 8 or 9am everyone is "evicted" for the day –- over the long term a healthy person becomes very sick (walking sick) –- they fall asleep anywhere and everywhere . . . another drawback is "showers" –- everyone tend to get to the shower at the same time –- not enough shower stalls therefore if one overslept or had insufficient time to shower before "eviction" too bad . . .  food –- usually stale or prepared by some of these people previously identified in this article (??) –- most have no money [shelters do not always give the homeless their PNA] and to avoid eating at the shelter and getting sick prefer to panhandle and sleep on the streets in an effort to stay healthy .  .  . the City suggests that we avoid giving money to these people, but we suggest corrective measures at shelters and other accommodations of this type . . . some of these people are really hungry and in need of a good place to sleep while others may be "cons" . . . some try to earn a living –- singing, washing cars, handing out flyers, etc. and others are too aggressive –- exercise caution . . .We feed the homeless in other countries . . . why not our own? .  .  . Until next week, Peace!
 
Week ending 7/14/08.  .  . Lets talk about constructive dismissal . . . for those who are unaware of the term, its when management says "you are fired" but do not want to cut the severance cheque –- instead they in-concert with your co-workers harass the heck out of you so that you eventually quit –- some of their strategies are putting you on a short leash (always wanting to know where you are every minute of the day while others are enjoying 2 hour lunches), saying you steal when it’s a lie [Incident: Friday, going on vacation, large corporate cheque for deposit, money department closed early, so told someone to deposit same because of being on vacation – a week later came back to find out that they called the police because they could not find the cheque!?! (Oh! We eventually found it in the folder where you left it)], job description downsized to full-time photocopying, etc. –- get the picture? . . . My former job paid the bills and my immediate boss always pushed me to challenge myself – never bored, loved my job . . .Then they brought in a superboss, and just about everyone vacated the Division  –- except me –- and the act to “constructively dismiss” me was set in motion . . . stuck it out for 6 (yes, 6) years, even tried to transfer to other Divisions, but “superboss” references nixed them all . . . put up a good fight, but to no avail . . . the daily stress was unbearable . . . so one day with all my ducks lined up, decided that my health was more important than money and called it quits –- enough! that was in 2001. . . but they won’t cut the leash . . .seems “technically” still employed with them because they have my money . . . was overworked and underpaid (used to cover for all of them while they went golfing frequently, among other things) . . . was the only Black employee in the Division and they treated me like crap . . . they did not want me then ---- guess they now realize the depth of my knowledge and skill set . . . manage my own company now, very happy, plus more opportunities to see the world from the other side –- your tactics won’t work. . . I WAS FIRED! . . .It's time everyone respectfully move on, I have . . . Until next week, Peace! 
 
Week ending July 25, 2008 . . .  In court dealing with family issues . . .  A beautiful model-type teenager walks into a doctor's office with her mom and complains of "not sleeping well" – unknown to them, she is committed and placed into a mental hospital for assessments. There she is  raped by patients (sometimes while she is heavily sedated or in restraints). . . her entire body "shut-down" from the abusive treatment experienced from hospital securities, nurses, etc -- they placed on liquid food, etc. . . .Pregnant they perform therapeutic abortions, and she goes into post-partum depression – years later a baby finally makes it to full term – The Society takes it away at birth with visiting rights. Reports by The Society are that the newborn is being fed every 4 hours instead of every 2 hours –- the baby cries continually from being hungry, sometimes unable to fall asleep because of being hungry . . .Seems the family (according to the Society) is "unfit" to care for this beautiful child . . . To the Governing Bodies of this Country, it is time to take a close look at the operation of our country – what worked in 1962 is  unacceptable in 2008 – people are suffering . . . Until next week, Peace! 
 
Week Ending July 17, 2008 .   .  . Between Friends: Reversal of Process – born poor (status quo). Some people are born with double negatives – race and status (poor), others are born with triple negatives – race, gender and status, and so on. Lets approach the latter from a woman’s perspective – Black, woman and poor. It is very difficult for these individuals to achieve “status symbol” height. Why? Because they are usually the ones taking care of family and home - but with persistence, it can be achieved. In Canada, there is a Black woman who is a multi-millionaire. It is rumoured that she is as rich as another Black woman in the U.S., yet she lives in poverty. Seems there are those who benefit from maintaining the “status quo” and refuse to recognized an individual earned ‘status symbol”. This woman has been stripped of her years of hard work and efforts to crawl out of the poverty barrel. Instead, those in position have reversed the process by putting her back at the bottom. Time to change the way we treat people, irrespective of color, race, religion, etc. [Incident: on more than one occasion people have treated her with utter disrespect because she is poor, even spat at her.] – "Die Soldaten" ("The Soldiers"). . . Until next week, Peace!
 
Week ending 7/14/08.  .  . TORONTO — Concerts, concerts, concerts — reports are that the Akon, Wyclef Jean, Sean Paul and Kardinal Offishall concert was hyped but began late and some artists were unable to complete their set due to insufficient time . . .Great Big Sea w/ Joel Plaskett Emergency  was also in concert at Molson Amphitheatre . .  .EdgeFest: the annual rock concert festival that primarily promotes Canadian rock music was held over two days at Downsview Park on July 12 & 13, 2008 and featured more than 20 bands including Linkin Park, Stone Temple Pilots, Sam Roberts Band, The Bravery, Attack In Black, Ashes In Divide, Creature and many more. Presented by rock station 102.1 FM, the festival debuted in 1987 and is the longest running rock show in Canada  . . . The Beach Boys was at Casino Rama . . .Rush at Molson Amphitheatre . . .Themis at The Kathedral and Darkest Hour performed at Opera House . . . While these events completed their run for the season: The Toronto Burlesque Festival, Toronto Fringe Festival, The Salsa In Toronto Festival, Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition and Ritmo Y Color . . .Flo Rida and Yes concerts were cancelled. .  .Girlfriend Talk: People who fall head over heels in love — can't eat, sleep, work or breathe, unless that special person is there — Is this a female thing or men also experience this? And what happens when the love runs "in the "Gully" — Don't ask me! Seems someone is always singing "Confessions". . . Until next week, Peace! 
 
Week Ending July 7, 2008.  .  . TORONTO — Just For Laughs Festival is being held from July 24-26/08 and promises to be even bigger and better than before with the T-dot six prestigious Galas hosted by some of comedy's biggest stars, a new club series, a sketch show and national comedy showcase, two ethnic themed super shows, a very special concert event and loads of free outdoor programming, all taking place in the heart of downtown Toronto including Yonge-Dundas Square. .  . Oasis — it was a strategic PR move and musical sportsmanship that brought success — boost record sales, organizers made money and the fans had a tremendous time at the festival — T-Dot welcomes you at Virgin Fest scheduled for September 7, 2008. . . Jonas Brothers Mania – three heartthrobs: Joe, Nick and Kevin — the pop-punk singing brothers with hits "Burnin' Up" and "S.O.S." were in T-Dot promoting their soon to be release disc "A Little Bit Longer" with a stop at MuchMusic and a sold-out performance on Friday (July 4/08) — [All three brothers wear "purity rings" a symbol that they will remain pure until marriage] .  .  .The 11th Annual Corso Italia Street Festival held on St. Clair Ave. marks the opening of the new Corso Italia Streetscape which features new streetcarway, new sidewalks, parkades and facades. In 1984 Queen Elizabeth attended the event and in 2003 they broke the world record for the longest strand of spaghetti. . . There is a hidden gem, downtown T-Dot, close to the lake and accessible by TTC — Polson Pier — drive-in movie theatre, beach volleyball (olympic-sized outdoor sand courts), pool, soccer (55,000 sq.ft indoor space), mini putt, driving range, concert venue and more .  .  .During the summer months DJ Starting From Scratch will be on the 1s and 2s at Sunshine Sundays (Polson Pier) — it's a free event .  .  Between Friends: To O.C. — saw the B_list with 23 of Canada's top flight and you are still "el numero uno" — but there were no one wearing high heels on the list — where are they? Guys can't handle the competition? 2009 should feature at least one [hand shake]. . . Until next week, Peace! 
 
Week Ending July 3, 2008.  .  . TORONTO – American rapper LiL Wayne’s scheduled appearances in Montreal and Toronto was cancelled due to unknown circumstances. Lil Wayne is billed to perform at Reggae Sumfest in Jamaica on July 18, 2008 along with international stars such as Keyshia Cole. .  . Machel Montano HD, Sparrow, David Rudder, Patrice Roberts, Farmer Nappy, Zan, Kernal Roberts and much more performed at Paramount Event Theatre .  .  .Have you been following the headlines on the controversy in the UK on Jay-Z performing at Glastonbury Festival? – Well reports are that his performance "mashed up the place" – even helping to boost record sales – What's the saying? "If you can't beat him, you must join him" – Good going Jay-Z. .  . Between Friends – opportunities & competition .  .  .  When the cards of life are shuffled, each person is dealt a unique hand in life – how you play it determines your success or failure – sometimes it’s the person you meet or the ones you never met who determines your success [or failure] – but you must recognize the opportunity or competition and grab or dismiss it – opportunities once missed, could take 5 to 10 years for another to occur – sometimes we give up before the next one does – and become resentful and envious of the success(es) of others –  while creating roadblocks for these same people – "misery loves company" – however, the next opportunity could come from the person you are trying to obstruct – “It’s like moving mountain”. . . Until next week, Peace!
 
Week Ending June 29, 2008.  .  . We are celebrating Canada Day and enjoying the 3-day weekend.  There are numerous tourists and celebrities in T-Dot for vacation, concerts, festivals, theatre, corporate functions among other things  . . . on Saturday, it rained periodically, but the 13th Annual Dyke March Parade had participants dancing in the streets, wearing all types of costumes and enjoying themselves . . . Ice Cream Summerfest with performances by LL Cool J, Monica, Dru Hill, Joe, Ginuwine held at Molson Amphitheatre had concert attendees rocking to the beat of their favourite artists - a good time was had by all . . . At the time of this writing, the Annual Pride Parade, which is the highlight of Pride Week was in progress . . .  TD Canada Trust Toronto Jazz Festival held over 10 days at more than 40 venues was in its final stages  . . . Cute Is What We Air For performed at Mod Club . . .Classic Albums Live: Aerosmith: Toys In The Attic performed at Phoenix Concert Theatre . . . Girlfriend Talk: Women – and men who keep going back to their (s)ex because they are afraid to commit to anyone – Why? the s*x is good! Say what!? .  .  . Until next week, Peace!
 
Week Ending June 26, 2008.  .  .Ron Sexsmith performed at First Canadian Place, Waterfall Stage as part of Sound Bites Lunchtime Concerts In the Park – the next time he performs anywhere, make an effort to attend – there was a large group in attendance and the music was good. After the performance he held an autograph session at HMV. . . TD Canada Trust Toronto Jazz Festival is ongoing, we attended one of their lunchtime concert series for performers Michael Berube, Chantal Chamberland and George Evans at Nathan Phillips Square  . . .While at the event, visit the Artisans' Village to find unique handcrafted jewellery, South American bamboo instruments, quirky salt and pepper shakers, South Asian textiles, Toronto-themed watercolours, Jazz-inspired paintings and one a kind gifts . . . Pride Week 2008 is in progress with artists Melanie C., Dragonette, The Parachute Club, Hidden Cameras, Jully Black, Thelma Houston, and many more performing during the 10 days and nights event. The highlight is the Pride Parade scheduled for  Sunday, June 29/08 at 2 pm, beginning at Church and Bloor,  winding its way along Bloor to Yonge then south along Yonge  to Gerrard Street then east to Church. .  . Between Friends: Debt – Some people put themselves into debt – others put people into debt – while others are born in debt – some debt takes generations to repay, if ever. . . Until next week, Peace! 
 
Week Ending June 23, 2008.  .  .Damon Dash, former Roc-a-fella CEO and Jim Jones were spotted in Toronto recently . . . 50 Cent and the G-Unit at Circa Nightclub . . .The Rev. Al Green, Bachman, Cummings with Kim Michell were in Toronto for concerts . . . New millionaire, deal signed and ballin’ tonight? Here is a car that will definitely show your upgraded status – Gallardo Lamborghini Spider LP560-4, 2-door, color: baby blue (my choice) – oooh! What a beauty.  .  . Between Friends: Lets talk about something that may eventually affect all of us – Isolation, definition: “separate it from other things”.  .  . There are maybe two types of isolation – self-imposed and by others (society, system, etc.) – Isolation could be for your safety while at other times it's for control over a person (medical, financial, assets, etc.), as if no one cares – The most dangerous of the two is the latter, because friends, family, strangers, the entire network is being issued incorrect information on the individual.  .  . [Last weekend, in the local newspaper, there was an article about a 72 year-old woman trying to find her children.] .  .  . This got me thinking – who does it benefit to isolate an individual from their family, friends and lovers – so that after some time society assumes that this individual is dead? Identity theft? – To give the impression of a transient lifestyle – mental illness? .  .  . On the other hand, there are people who live the so-called "transient lifestyle" who are not mentally ill – especially those in the entertainment business – until an 'artist" have gained some kind of success where they can afford two homes, they are basically living out of a backpack and following their dreams . . . success takes years and lots of hustling . . . [happy family reunion]. . . Until next week, Peace!
 
Week Ending June 19, 2008 .  .  .NXNE and Luminato 2008: Festival of Arts +  Creativity Festivals ended on a high note . . . The stargazers were out in full force for the MuchMusic MMVA event held on June 15/08 .  .  . Singer Keyshia Cole [Universal Music] release "Heaven Sent" currently in heavy rotation on radio stations is a beautiful track. Other track from her CD incl. "Let It Go" featuring Missy Elliott and Lil Kim   . . . Girlfriend Talk: Heard the one about Matthew McConaughey and his girlfriend not taking baths? Well, the topic on "showering"  is so overworked that we decided to put a spin on it -- because those who frequently take a bath, don't discuss it in public. . . . My thoughts centre on those "soldiers" who are doing duty on the frontline that would love to have a bath every day but is unable because they are in a war zone fighting for people and country. Their first priority is "survival" and coming home safely to family and friends. Personal hygiene becomes secondary under those conditions –  you in a war zone, "hold your head and butt down". Many of us are at war, but we are not in a war zone, per se!  Life in big cities are not always "peaches and cream".  [New York City, they met a man on arrival and he was panhandling – (gave him some change) – six months later they are almost in the panhandler's position].  People find themselves in all kinds of unpredictable situations – must "survive" to enjoy that long leisurely shower or bath. To all "soldiers", stay safe and come home soon. . . Until next week, Peace!
 
Week Ending June 12, 2008.  .The Luminato 2008: Festival of Arts + Creativity was a big success, if you haven't had a chance to visit, you can still catch  Festival Dance: Mark Morris Dance Group - Slow Dancing to June 15/08 @ University of Toronto, St. George Campus .  .  .Visiting T-Dot? 25 things you must do while in Toronto [click] . . . Could this possibly be the afterparty of the year – may be too early to tell  – Akon and Kardinal Offishall Dangerous: MMVA Afterparty will be held on June 15/08 @ Circa – hosted by Lil X and music by Starting From Scratch and JDiggz .  .  . Also at Circa, Stella Artois Leger presented Wyclef Jean live in concert on June 10/08 at the launch of their national brand Stella Artois . . . Father's Day is being celebrated this weekend and there are many children who wish they had a father or a father-figure in their lives. If you are available this weekend, extend a helping hand to some child – sometimes it's the little things that money can't buy that these children need – and to those parents who are holding their children hostages [baby mamas and papas] – you are holding the future in your hands – handle with care. . . Girlfriend Talk: There are some people walking around using words like "payback" and "karma" – read these quotes somewhere: "if you are without guilt, then cast the first stone",  "leave vengeance to me, might be slow but definitely sure" and "what is rightfully yours can't be taken from you" – placing those things in hands mightier and more powerful than mine. . . Until next week, Peace!
 
Week Ending June 8, 2008.  .  .We checked our daily planner  and realized that we needed a larger one  because there are too many events for the small one we now have – therefore, if we were unable to attend one of your functions, we'll try to be at the next one .  .  . Alicia Keys and Jordin Sparks performed at Air Canada Centre .  .  . Jully Black was at Danforth Music Hall .  .  . Anne Murray and Michael Kaeshammer was at Sony Centre for the Performing Arts .  .  . Culture Shock performed at RBC Desifest .  .  .Justin Rutledge had a CD release at Trinity-St. Paul and Dangerous, the track by Akon and Kardinal Offishall hit No. 40 on Billboard Hot 100 Music chart. . .  Coming up MuchMusic presents 50 Cent in concert at Circa Nightclub on June 22/08 .  .  .Melanie C. a.k.a. Sporty Spice and ex-Spice Girl will play a free concert on June 28, 2008 at the TD Canada Trust Wellesley stage for Pride Week 2008. Melanie C. and the Spice Girls performed four sold-out shows in Toronto February of this year.   .  . R&B singer Jully Black, who just completed her sold-out headline tour, debut on Canadian Idol on CTV on June 3, 2008 as in-house "mentor"  . .  .Barbara Walters – The View – was in Toronto for interviews and a signing session at Indigo Book Store promoting her bestselling memoir "Audition". . .Between Friends: People, especially men, who get offended when a "mating call" goes unanswered. Sometimes the "call" is unheard because there is something more urgent on the table or just not interested. It is also better to ignore that "call" if it came from a co-worker  – my job is more important. . . Until next week, Peace! 
 
Week Ending May 14, 2008.  .  .The week began with CHFI 98.1 FM, “Toronto’s Life Favourite” radio and hosts Mike and Erin on remote at Winners for a 12-hour charity drive in aid of abused women shelters. . .  On Friday night in T-Dot, we decided to check out the party scene, in the Entertainment District. We met Mike the Drummer working the crowd outside Eatons Centre at Yonge & Dundas Streets – he is one of the regular sidewalk entertainers permitted by the City. . . Next stop, John and King Streets – there we walked north on John to Richmond . . . the partygoers are out in full force, including security men, policemen, firemen, taxis, limos, street vendors, etc. . . a number of ladies are wearing the skimpiest of dresses with the highest of heels – which gave the appearance of the longest of legs  . . .[reminded me of the mini- and micro-mini skirts era] . . . while their dapper dates were dressed to complement these ladies . . . Hooters, Scotiabank Theatre, Milestone’s, Palomino Bar, Montana, Fluid, Metro, Republik, Tonic, Reign are all within close proximity of each other – but the action seemed to be at Circa . . .We then checked in at Butterfly Lounge to look up a friend, only to find a “for lease” sign on the door . . . time to head home . . . heard singing at Gorilla Monsoon and stopped to listen to folk, rock/acoustic, singer/ songwriter Jenny Allen – while trying to enjoy the music, a man asked if we liked  “red lobster or red snapper” – had no idea what the heck he was talking about . . . but he spoiled the fun, so we left . . . Did we forget anything? – Oops! yes . . . Seven Lounge!!! . . .Accommodation Merger: have empty house, need 2 adults, short-term,  contact Nuff Tings A Gwaan In T-Dot. . . Until next week, Peace!
 
Week Ending May 8, 2008 .  .  .Mother’s Day celebrations are a few days away – have you bought your gift basket or flowers yet? Still thinking about it – maybe your relationship with Mom isn’t all that good. Well, listen up – she is not perfect and never will. She is your mom – your best friend. Her love is unconditional – she will discipline or cuss you out when you are wrong – next she is hugging and wiping your tears when you are sad. She is mom! Her job is a very loving, rewarding and difficult one. Mom worries about your health, school grades, safety, food, shelter, friends, interacting with adults, you name it. While ensuring that she takes care of herself – hair, makeup, clothes, job, car, mortgage, etc. Some mothers never stop being mothers even when you are 60 years old – a mom is always a mom.  There are never enough minutes or hours in a day to complete all her tasks – Sometimes she is cranky – of course she is – she works tirelessly – cleaning, cooking, washing, counseling, nursing, sleepless nights, squeezing a nickel out of a penny to take care of you and the family. However, should she ask to clean up the room, mow the lawn or take out the garbage – you are full of excuses. Now, get cracking – pick up that telephone or go shopping – she won’t remember what started the disagreement anyway. She would be just happy to see you or hear your voice – Happy Mother’s Day. . . Until next week, Peace!
 
Week Ending April 30, 2008  .  .  .Spring is finally here – technically that is – since at the time of this writing, the weather was uncooperative – 10F/0C. . . Recently, we checked out some of T-Dot's hotels, because the City will be abuzz with events after events for the next five months – we visited Sheraton, Novotel, Delta Chelsea and Bond Place.  Planning on attending one or more of these events –  haven't booked your hotel accommodations yet – space is limited! .  .  . There is a new cinema in town – AMC Theatre, located in Toronto Life Square, across from Yonge-Dundas Square. We attended one of their promotional shows to check out the oversized screen and seats with lots of leg room to watch "I Am Legend" starring Will Smith . . .Thumbs up to all my toolbelt-wearing friends who keep your City and ours humming – some work while we sleep. . . Girlfriend Talk: Heard about the man who wined and dined these women with imported sports cars, exotic vacations, fine dining, shopping sprees – they found out later he was impressing them using other people's money – last we heard he was doing time in prison. . . Until next week, Peace!
 
Week Ending April 24, 2008 .  .  . Several months ago we read a newspaper article about unclaimed money or royalties in bank accounts – curious, we did an internet search using those two words.  .  . Musicians, singers, rappers, actors, publishing companies (small), everyone in the entertainment business – there are companies “Looking For You” to deliver royalty and residual cheques, eg. SOCAN, ASCAP, ACTRA, Universal, EMI to name a few. These cheques are being sent to your last known address and is being marked “Return To Sender” or “Address Unknown”. There are Billions of dollars in trust accounts around the world with unclaimed monies. Most artists change addresses frequently while following their dream or passion, not realizing that they are leaving money on the table. The onus is on you, your agent, manager, etc. to keep your account information up-to-date.  .  . Why do we care? Because the money is not being circulated into the system – the talent is not being paid for work performed – it’s time to collect.  .  . So what are you going to do with the money, if and when you get it? Shopping? – Don’t forget to invest some – guaranteed investment certificates are good, but consult your lawyer or accountant first. . . Until next week, Peace!
 
Week Ending April 16, 2008 .  .  .A two-day audition for the next Canadian Idol was held at Dundas Square. On Saturday, the first day of audition, all participants were in good spirits, while enduring the intermittent rain showers.  However, the action centered around performances at the Jam Van outside, where we were entertained Karaoke-style by potential acts, along with Terra and Sean who were contestants in the Canadian Idol audition. We are not sure if they got eliminated on Sunday, but on Saturday, individually, they put on a good show. [Hey, JJ was that you hamming it up for the audience?]. . . Between Friends . . . Entrepreneurs know their business is a success, when they arrive at their business to find customers waiting in line to purchase their goods, long before they open the doors.  .  .Early one Sunday morning, had to get to my destination before 9:00 am. Unaware of the weekend service times, proceeded to the nearest subway, only to be told by the conductor that the train service begins at 9 am. Thought about taking the bus or a taxi, but I was already late, so decided to wait 15 minutes for the train.  Surprisingly, once I got to the subway platform, there were other loyal customers or riders waiting patiently for the train. And at exactly 9:00 am (subway clock) there was that beautiful train pulling into the westbound station, then at 9:01 the eastbound train arrived. Now, there are many ways to travel within the City of Toronto, but the TTC has thousands of loyal customers who enjoy riding the “rocket” to their destinations – let someone else do the driving, parking, etc. Now, lets presume that there were riders at every subway platform – east, west, north and southbounds waiting patiently for the "rocket" – money in the bank! The Toronto Transit service is a successful business – therefore, why are we not improving service and keeping employees contented? On the other hand, a successful business should not operate in the “red”. Let’s find ways to keep the “rocket” rolling – other businesses depend on those same loyal customers, it’s a vicious circle. . . Until next week, Peace!
 
Week Ending April 12, 2008 .  .  . The 2008 Juno Awards, held in Calgary, Alberta was hosted by Russell Peters, where Feist won 5 awards including Single and Album of the Year, Jully Black won R&B/Soul Recording of the Year for her album Revival while Mikey Dangerous won Reggae Recording of the Year for Don't Go Pretending. . .Between Friends .  .  Let's talk about things that affect people's lives -- poverty and homelessness -- imagine being worth $3-4 billion -- yet you and your family are living in shelters, on the streets or starving, with people scrutinizing every thing they do like they were criminals --- all the time these individuals know where the money is, tied up in some trust account being raffled off, given to friends or people who are already wealthy .  .  .The butcher: My dad was a butcher -- during the drama in my life, he had a stroke, recovered and had a second one, that time he did not recover. The situation meant that we were unable to travel to his funeral or assist the family with some of the expenses -- boxed in, no inside or outside contact --- There were days when we had no money to purchase anything -- hungry, harassed, tired -- Somewhere in the universe, there is a system where people  benefit from others being homeless. Yet, how can anyone give away an estate or property that is not theirs, when the rightful owner is alive and there are beneficiaries?. . . Until next week, Peace!
 
Week Ending April 6/08.  .  .  Finally, we are back -- and yes, we missed you too -- So what happened? -- Well, while walking (or in my case running) along life's highway, with eyes cast downward, bumped into a man who was 10 feet tall and the same size wide. Tried to avoid him, but he would not let me pass him. Could not step over him or go around him. Eventually, looked up and asked him his name, "Taxman".  Seems we hadn't spoken in several years, and he came to investigate my whereabouts. He thought something might have happened to me -- Aw! Schucks! so nice of him to care -- ?%#*&!  -- Anyway, we are back on speaking terms. Enough said! .  .  .  Now let's bring you up-to-date on some of the events that took place while we were off-line. . . Until next week, Peace!.
 
January/March, 2008.  .  .  A free benefit concert was held in memory of Jazz Great Oscar Peterson who passed away in 2007.  .  . The Musical Triangle, aired on CKLN 88.1 FM is now being hosted by Allan Jones. Jones is one of the founding partners of Jones and Jones Productions and a columnist for the Ethnic Umbrella. Milton Blake, long time host of The Musical Triangle, passed away in 2007, after a lengthy illness.  .  . The Face of Righteousness1, artist formerly known as Docta Peppa, released his twin-pack CD/DVD entitled "Gonna Be A Star", featuring "Angel" and "Omri". Pick up your copy here .  .  . Special thanks to Susan at Bell Canada Business Customer Service for her timely assistance in arranging our telephone  installation in 48 hours after someone else forgot the order placed 3 weeks prior.  .  . Jeff Healey, born Norman Jeffrey Healey, died on March 2, 2008. The Canadian jazz, blues-rock guitarist and vocalist who was blind since birth from a rare form of cancer, passed away a month before the release of his new album, Mess of Blues.
 
December, 2005-2007.  .  .  Beyonce, Justin Timberlake, Russell Simmons, to name a few, all visited T-Dot and performed at concerts or other events.  .  . At FLOW 93.5FM radio personalities were in constant rotation -- the "Mid-Day Mix" is hosted in rotation by Jason Chambers and P-Plus. DJ Starting From Scratch can be heard on the "Traffic Flow Mix" and "Trauma Unit" at 5pm and 7pm respectively. The new FLOW 93.5 includes Melanie (JJ King and Melanie  Show) and Jeni who replaced Hollywood Rich from 10am to 2pm.  .  . In the theme of Black History Month, we attended the film  "Dead Prez: It's Bigger Than Hip Hop", directed by John Treat at Harbourfront Centre.  .  . Trinity Chris, King Ujah, Lindo P and Lady D performed at Reggae at the Reverb launch party while King Ujah held his video/CD release party at Sidney's Island Restaurant in Mississauga for his single "Hot Zone" featuring Lady D.  .  .  Caribana celebrated its 40th year with a month long celebration. The Caribana Parade drew an estimated 1 million people -- it was reported that a man tried to hop on to one of the trucks, missed, and fell under the wheels of the truck --- he was hospitalized and loss one of his legs.  .  . from Catwalk to Sidewalk, a fashion and design festival in collaboration with The Bay was held at Yonge-Dundas Square. The event featured 50 of the city's top female and male models from some of the most renowned agencies wearing designs from Canada's top labels and international brands.  .  . Buskerfest Festival in aid of epilepsy was also held on the same weekend in the St. Lawrence Market area and featured local and international talents. [Ben Kerr, you are always in my thoughts].  .  . AfriVillage Fest a two-day event held at Bloorcourt Village featured live music, entertainment, fashion show, spice market and various African cuisines.  .  . The Dalai Lama visited Canada and met with Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Govenor General Michaelle Jean. Harper is the first Prime Minister to formally receive the Dalai Lama in his office on Parliament Hill.  .  . The Dalai Lama also spent  two days in Toronto with one delivering a talk on human happiness at the Rogers Centre.  .  .  Da Kink in my Hair premiered on Global TV. The series starring Trey Anthony, Ordena Stephens-Thompson, Ngozi Paul and Richard Fagon (Hollywood Rich, formerly of FLOW 93.5 FM).  .  . The 41st annual Cavalcade of Lights, designed by Brian Gluckstein in partnership with the Bay and financial support from Tourism Toronto was  launched at Nathan Phillips Square to kick-off the 2007 Christmas season. Presented by Scotiabank, the new design had  more than 300,000 dazzling LED lights.  .  . Jannett Scott aka "Lady Luscious" released her CD "Mystery Woman" at The Big Bop, inside Kathedral. The CD featured the song "See You Later My Friend", which is dedicated to the memory of Aleisha and Monique. (Scott lost her daughter Aleisha and her daughter's best friend Monique in a car accident in 2007.).  .  . Hayley Sales, Jully Black and DJ Tricky Moreira performed at the Cavalcade of Lights at Nathan Phillips Square.  .  .  Kardinal Offishall's 10th annual Christmas party was held at the Mod Club.
 
Orbituary/R.I.P.  .  .  Honest Ed Mirvish, 2007, he was 92.  .  . Jazz Pianist Oscar Peterson, 1925-2007, he was 82.  .  . CKLN 88.1 Radio Personality and host of The Musical Triangle Milton Blake, 2007, he was 62.  .  . Jacob Adams, actor/screenwriter, died in LA, he was 40.

New Products/Sections.  .  . A full line of "Nuff Tings A Gwaan in T-Dot" products (t-shirts, mugs, hats, etc.) is available on-line. T-shirts will be available for sale at our office location. .  .  . The website has three new sections: "Ballin2night", "Toronto DJs" and "Urban Radio Stations/Programs".

 
Between Friends:  .  .  .  The last three years wasn't easy,  difficult and tough at times -- but the challenge was staying on that surfboard and adjusting when the waves got too rough or too high, and the sharks began circling --- To the friends and advisors who threw out the safety net whenever it was needed -- we didn't always agree on the strategies, but we learnt to trust each other, thanks.  .  . In the end, I did it "My Way " and "Father, a nuff tings a gwaan 'round ya".  .  . Now, lets get back to business, have fun, make lots of money, because "It's a Wonderful World" after all .  .  . Hold on to your dreams.  .  . and, by the way, hubby where are you? "Me and You", "All Night Long"  listening to Millie Jackson "Live and Uncensored" with Barry White singing "It's Just Not Enough"-- we'll talk "Diamonds are Forever", later .  .  .Can you hear me laughing? -- all the way to f-r-e-a-k-ing corner store.  .  .  Finally, bliss!. . . Until next week, Peace!.

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