backpacks & haircuts

Great fun this week as we kick off the brand new EZ Rock morning show with Seanna Collins joining the fun.  Actually we had Seanna in last week warming up and the two of us hosted our first event last friday at the Stollery Childrens Hospital.  Way to go northern Alberta ATB branches rasing over $350,000 for the Stollery!  Some great personal stories were pretty awe inspiring.  Seanna and I had fun although it felt like we're an old married couple already...she almost made me carry her purse at one point.  Mind you she has three!  And she carries her curling iron where ever she goes....intersting.

 

Maybe I should pick up a backpack for her.  My wife and I have been on the crazy back to school shopping spree and it's the new backpack season.  I have found that there are two kinds of backpacks...Regular backpacks that are sturdy and can hold books and lunch and are completely uncool...and little teeny backpacks which cost a fortune, can barely hold a book and are twice as expensive but are totally hip...guess which ones we ended up springing for.

Mouse in the House

Back from Holidays

Holiday bound

Getting set for my final 2 weeks of summer vacation I'm feeling as though the time is passing by too quickly which I say a lot.  If only we could put another month on to summer I think that would be perfect.

Heading out to the Okanogan on Saturday to visit both my parents who have been divorced for over 40 years but now live closer together than ever before. Weird hey-- Mind you in BC when people retire they all seem to move to the gorgeous hills and lakes of the Okanogan.  Swimming in a lake is one of my all time favorite summer activities and this is the best place to do it.  Lots of new changes with the EZ rock morning show when I return.  As you may have heard Seanna Collins will join Cheryl and I and we've got lots of fun and exciting things up our sleeves!

Wasn't that a Party!

The title of the old Irish Rovers song was bouncing around my head when I woke up Monday morning after a fun filled 4 days in the our wonderful city.   It's not the kind of thing my wife and I can do ( or afford) every year but with my favorite Aunt and Uncle coming to town we planned a wide array of activities and I played tour guide.

We kicked things off on thursday with a lovely cruise aboard the Edmonton Queen Riverboat.  What a relaxing and different way to view the City.  The views from the riverboat really highlight some of the best scenary  from the river valley and showcase the diverse charms of our city.  Its a great way to challenge out of towners pre conceived ideas about the landscape of Edmonton.  Great food and music aboard too.

x-weighted

Coming up next week I'll post some fun pictures of my weekend activites on the Edmonton Queen, Red Friday and the Indy...plus details on our new addition to the morning show...Seanna Collins!

In the meantime here's a note a got from listener Ryan;

 

I was hoping you could send a quick message out for me if

possible? My name is Ryan and I am a personal trainer and lifestyle

coach, with Healthy Rhino, here in Edmonton..

 

I may have an opportunity for a lucky family or two, from our city:

 

A television series: X-WEIGHTED has contacted me in order to find families

for their documentary series this season. They document an individual's

helping out a young local talent

here is an email from Helen at McElheran's Fine Furniture.  It would great if we could all help out.

Good Day to you all!

 

 

 

I work with an amazing man, Otto Esposito, who is the proud father of two, talented young models.  Both girls have been active in the local circuit.  NOW... his oldest girl, Jessica, is being considered by a modeling agency in New York and Paris.  The agency has decided to put the finalists on their web site and have the general public vote on who should be selected.  The winner will be the model who obtains the greatest number of votes.  You guessed it!  I'm wondering just what the chances would be that you could mention this, on air, and see if we can't get some more votes for our local gal.  I realize you likely have numerous restrictions on just what you can and cannot do but I figured it was worth a try.  Below is a copy of the letter I received from proud papa and it contains all of the information.  I thank you for your consideration.  The competition ends July 31^st.

 

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taking the kids to Capital EX

More summer fun!  Well we took the plunge this last weekend...after missing Capital EX last year I promised the kids we would go.  Sunday was the only day that worked for us...it was gonna be hot and crowded.  Oh well, "we'll get an early start".  Good thing we did...by 3 pm you could hardly move--the Agricom construction really slows up the foot traffic.  Kind of like driving on the Whitemud....the heat didn't really bother, or the cost--it's just the masses of people.   And I have to say there is some pretty massive people out there.  The health warnings about obescity really hit home after a couple hours of people watching....which is really my favorite thing to do at the EX.  And it appears that many people do want to be watched as they certainly dress up to attract attention.  We made it four and a half hours and about $200 later my eldest son Maxwell said to me ," well that was pretty fun huh Dad?"   I sensed that he wasn't all the positive and I told him it was fun to see him have a good time.  He also seemed to learn a thing or two about the cost of the Fair...he was shocked to discover that of the $27 he had saved to take with him he returned home with only $3.  And that may be the best lesson of all.

cabin life-Summer vacation

Back in the 1930's my Grandfather Norman and his brother "Red"  bought two cabins deep in the woods south of Prince George B.C.  The cabins were skidded from a logging camp to a beautiful lakeside lot on a lake called "Bobtail".  It's along the Blackwater road which used to be called the Telegraph Trail and you can still find pieces of the old telegraph wire that used to run through there.

The forests are huge Fir and Pine trees, although much of the Pine has been killed off by the Mountain Pine Beetle.  There's an abundance of wild life and great fishing on the lake.  Steep hills and mountains and hundreds of lakes and rivers surround the area.  Since I was about 5 years old I spent my summers at "The Cabin" and have thousands of magical memories.  Great boyhood adventures and wonderfull family memories .  My wife and I even got married there.  Trina spread wild flower seeds everywhere that are now full and beautiful.

ARRGH--THE HUMIDITY!!

YEP--I REALIZE THATS NOT A PICTURE OF ME-----BUT IT IS WHAT MY HAIR PRETTY MUCH LOOKS LIKE IN THIS HUMIDITY......YIKES!  (THIS IS CHERYL BY THE WAY--NOT SHANE--HIS HAIR LOOKS FINE)

 I DO HAVE TO SAY THAT MY NEW BASEMENT SUITE IS A GODSEND IN THIS HEAT.  THE OLD APARTMENT BUILDING I'D BEEN LIVING IN WAS LIKE DANTE'S INFERNO WHENEVER THERE WAS A HEATWAVE---AND YOU CAN ASK BOTH SHANE AND ROBIN WHAT I'M LIKE WHEN ITS HOT AND I DONT GET ENOUGH SLEEP.  IE: IF I HAVE TO SUFFER---YOU ARE TOO!!!   CRANKY STUFF ASIDE---ITS SO MUCH BETTER FOR MY DOG AS WELL.  (SIDE NOTE TO ANYONE WITH A PET:  PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE DONT TAKE THEM WITH YOU IF YOU'RE DOING A LITTLE SHOPPING IN THIS HEAT----IF YOU THINK ITS UNBEARABLE FOR YOU IN A HOT VEHICLE---ITS WAY BEYOND THAT FOR ANIMALS--THEY DONT SWEAT THE WAY WE DO---AND BESIDES--THEY'RE WEARING FUR!)

middle class

Well...here's hoping everyone had a wonderful Canada day .  With our 141st birthday falling on a tuesday it created a bit of confusion as to what days we all took off.    At least the weather was gorgeous for outoor fun. 

Canada day is also a time to reflect on what it means to be Canadian.  One of the wonderful things about Canadians is how we are generally a very happy and generous country.  We really do care about other people and want to do whatever we can to help others out...we feel bad when we see others suffering.  I think it comes from our ancestors...many who came to Canada with a desire to create a better life and weren't afraid of hard work.  And they knew if they helped others out that one day that person might be able to help them out if they needed it.

play safe

Play safe....as a parent I know I've said it dozens of times to my kids.  I don't think they even had bicycle helmets when I was a kid and I definetly earned my share of bumps on my melon.  With all the safe gear kids have nowadays there is no reason not to wear it.  Big scare this past weekend when my nephew plowed his quad into and underneath a trailer.   The crash sheared off the handlebars and gas tank .  Little Carson's face smashed into the edge of the trailer which seperated his top gums and teeth from his skull but thanks to a full face helmet thats where the damage stopped.  Dental surgeons re attached everything and amazingly there should be no permanent damage.   But if it weren't for that helmet this blog might  have been a whole lot sadder!  Did a lot of praying thursday night.

Mysterious twins

Wow can you imagine trying to get anywhere if you were either one of those co-joined turtles?  "I wanna go this way...No I wanna go that way".  Are fertility drugs to be blamed for the over abundance of celebrity twins?  Think about it...Julie Roberts, Jennifer Lopez, Diana Krall and soon....the wonderbabies for Brad Pitt and Angalina Jolie.  All week we'll be giving away tickets to see RyanDan...Ryan and Dan Kowarsky.  The identical twins...in both looks and incredible voice.  There is some weird and wonderful stuff about twins that we'll share.  Listen in to win tickets!

Yeah!  Cheryl's back from her vacation...she's joined the bike to work gang and will give you some tales from her adventures soon.  She had to put the seat down to the lowest level.  If Robin was here the "short stuff" remarks would have been flying.  I'll leave it to him.

golf entry

Here's the scoop on a free round of golf with me as your host.   I'm hosting the Realty Executives  annual golf tournament in support of the Edmonton food bank and I've got an opeing for two!  The date is Friday June 20th and includes a continetal breakfast , round of golf and steak dinner.  Of course there's all kinds of prizes .  So send me an email --telling me why you should go golfing with me, tell me a golf joke or funny story and I'll make the draw this friday June 13th.  You can email me anytime at smichaels@radio.astral.com

Getting a little tired of this rain?  Me too....we try to keep a positive spin on things on the EZ Rock morning show but summer is such a short season.  I try to get all my summer chores done before the kids are out for school  but even the painting and roofing have to be put off.   I'm just hoping that the home repairs don't interfer with the summer fun come July. At least it's inspired me to do more practise with the guitar.   RKM music is setting Robin Allen and I on the track to learning a musical instrument.  We both regretted not learning as youngsters so we're taking the plunge now.  Me on the guitar and Robin on the Accordian.  Robin has already discovered that you should never practise the Accordian with your shirt off!  And I'm getting blisters on my fingers but its been a great experience so far.

BYE BYE

I'M ON HOLIDAYS TIL THE 16TH----SO MAKE SURE YOU KEEP AN EYE ON THOSE OTHER TWO N'ER DO WELLS ON THE MORNING SHOW.   

I DONT FISH--SO LETS JUST SAY---I'M GONE SLEEPIN'.......ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

HAVE A GREAT WEEK EVERYONE!!!

CHERYL

golfing for charity

Well here we go with the wonderfully busy charity golf tournaments.  I usually  host at least half a dozen a year where everybody has a great time, fun prizes and a great bar b q.  First up this year is The Realty Executives event June 20th at River Ridge golf course--the views here are spectacular!  Its kind of at the end of Ellerslie road.  The event is in support of Edmonton's Food Bank.

We're giving away two spots next week for fathers day to golf with me and my best buddy Chris.

If you would like to join us....here is the entry form....at the bottom.

By the way I got a few emails from people wondering how the guitar lessons are going with RKM music.  Three lessons down and I'm feeling pretty good...my fingers are getting tougher and I can play some chords and scales.....no serious stuff yet.  Teacher Al has been great  and is very good ...challenging but not too much.  Also if you're thinking about buying a musical intrument now is an excellent time as there are many sales on since this is kind of a quiet time of year.  RKM music is in Sherwood park and Millwoods.

comfort recipe

We usually associate comfort food with cold days but even in summer some comfort food feels and tastes great.   One of my favorites is Coquilles St. Jacques...now if you don't like seafood this one isn't for you since Scallops are the main ingredient.  It's a french cassarole that was invented to use up mashed potatoes. Cafe Select has always made one of the best but I wanted to be able to make it at home so I tried a few different recipes and this is the best one I found courtesy of Food Network Canada.  It only took me about 20 minutes and was very good but needs a little more seasoning than is listed .  A little more salt and pepper and next time I'm gonna try a little Terragon.

Sandi Richard's Coquille St. Jacques

  Yield:  4
Recipe Courtesy Sandi Richard, Fixing Dinner. Ingredients:

SEX, THE CITY AND MOVING

OKAY--AS MARTINA MCBRIDE WOULD SAY--"THIS ONE'S FOR THE GIRLS".......

YES--I LOVE LOVE LOVE INDIANA JONES--AND STILL PLAN TO SEE THE KINGDOM OF THE CRYSTAL SKULL ONCE THE CROWDS DISPERSE---BUT ITS GOING TO BE GREAT TO SIT DOWN FOR A MUCH NEEDED VISIT WITH FRIENDS CARRIE, SAMANTHA, MIRANDA AND CHARLOTTE.  I, LIKE MANY OTHER WOMEN WAS GLUED TO THE SHOW "SEX AND THE CITY" WHILE IT WAS STILL ON TV AND I HAVE TO BE HONEST--I ALWAYS THOUGHT THE ENDING WAS PRETTY LAME.  I DISTINCTLY REMEMBER SAYING--"THATS IT?"   WHEN THE END CREDITS ROLLED.....    AND IF YOU'RE LIKE ME  (OR POSSIBLY NOT)--YOU IDENTIFIED WITH ONE CHARACTER MORE THAN THE OTHERS.  (I TEND TO BE A 60-40 MIX OF MIRANDA AND CHARLOTTE--WITH A TEENY BIT OF CARRIE THROWN IN).   MY BIG THANKS TO OUR PROMOTIONS DEPARTMENT FOR PUTTING TOGETHER A SWEET LITTLE GET TOGETHER AT THE ELEPHANT AND CASTLE IN CITY CENTRE BEFORE THE 6:45PM SHOWING OF THE MOVIE THIS FRIDAY..  WE OF COURSE, ARE PLAYING SEX AND THE CITY TRIVIA THIS WEEK FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN TIX TO THE MOVIE THAT EVENING---AND AN INVITE TO OUR EXCLUSIVE GATHERING RIGHT BEFORE.  THE E AND C IS GOING TO HAVE COSMOPOLITANS AND MUNCHIES FOR US---WE'VE GOT MR. BIG CHOCOLATE BARS--AND WE'RE GOING TO HAVE A SPECIAL PRIZE UP FOR GRABS AS WELL.  (CANT TELL YOU WHAT IT IS NOW--ITS A SECRET--BUT IF YOU'RE LUCKY ENOUGH TO BE COMING--YOU'RE GONNA LOVE IT!)

things I learned at the garage sale

We had a garage sale this past weekend...with mixed success.  This is the first time ever and I'm not in a hurry to do it again.  First off its a lot of work to schlep all your "stuff" out of its hiding spot in the attic, garage, basement---under your kids bed etc.  Then you have to set up tables, arrange your "stuff" and then price it.  And then you have to hang around all weekend while strangers come and look at your items.  It's not like showing your underwear but it's kind of personal....will they like my stuff?  What will they pay for it?  Will they even buy it?  Can I just give it away?

Lets face it many people have a garage sale to get rid of a bunch of stuff they don't want and the buyers know this.  In fact most of our custoners made it clear they already had a bunch of thier own stuff that was taking up too much room.  We are such a rich , consumer society!

FRIDAY STUFF

ITS FRIDAY--AND YOU KNOW WHAT THAT MEANS!!   (TOMORROW IS SATURDAY)

-GOOD LUCK TO THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE ST. ALBERT RAINMAKER RODEO---WHICH STARTS TODAY AND RUNS THROUGH SUNDAY.  (YOU'LL FIND IT ON THE RODEO GROUNDS IN THAT FINE COMMUNITY)  JUST HEAD TO www.rainmaker.ab.ca FOR MORE INFO.

-THIS SUNDAY MARKS THE START OF THE "KIDS PIRATE ADVENTURE CRUISES" ONBOARD THE EDMONTON QUEEN RIVERBOAT.  THEY RUN ONCE A MONTH THRU SEPTEMBER 14TH.  HEAD TO www.edmontonqueen.com FOR MORE INFO.

-BEST WISHES TO EVERYONE TAKING PART IN THE CANADIAN CANCER SOCIETY'S ANNUAL "RELAY FOR LIFE" AT FOOTE FIELD.  STARTS TOMORROW NIGHT AT 7--AND GOES TIL 7AM SUNDAY----ALL TO RAISE MONEY AND AWARENESS FOR CANCER RESEARCH.  (SHANE DID THIS A COUPLE OF YEARS AGO-AND HE SAYS ITS GRUELING--BUT UPLIFTING AT THE SAME TIME)   FOR MORE INFO-HEAD TO www.cancer.ca/relay

I'm a Rocket Man

When the Space Race was on back in the late 60's and early 70's many musicians were inspired to write songs with their own take on the Out of this world experience.  David Bowie's "Space Oddity" and Elton John's "Rocket Man" were probably the two biggest.  With news that Elton is coming back to Edmonton Sept 13th I had to take a look at the lyrics...afterall the tour is going to be called  "The Rocket Man: number one hits".

"I'm not the man they think I am at home...oh no , no, no  I'm a Rocket man.  Rocket man burning out his fuse up here alone".  Okay...kind of wierd but still a classic with lyrics by Bernie Taupin.  Its from one of my favorite Elton John albums..."Honkey Chateau".

STUFF TO DO THIS LONG WEEKEND!!!

IF YOU'RE LIKE A LOT OF PEOPLE YOU'RE PROBABLY SAYING TO YOURSELF--THANK GOD THE LONG WEEKEND IS HERE.  I MYSELF PLAN TO SNOOZE FOR A WHILE (ACTUALLY A LONG WHILE--AND MY FAT LITTLE DOG IS HIGHLY THANKFUL FOR IT)

ALRIGHT--LETS GET DOWN TO IT--WHATS THERE TO DO THIS WEEKEND?  

HEAD TO CHURCHILL SQUARE DOWNTOWN TONIGHT, TOMORROW AND SUNDAY FOR "MOVIES ON THE SQUARE"---FREE MOVIES ON A GIANT INFLATABLE SCREEN OUTDOORS---BUT YOU SHOULD BRING YOUR OWN LAWNCHAIRS.  SNACKS FOR SALE ON SITE--AND IT KICKS OFF AT 8PM EACH NIGHT.   THE MOVIES ARE "HITCH"--"ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS" AND "THE KARATE KID."

-THE CITY'S OUTDOOR SWIMMING POOLS OPEN FOR BIZNEZ TOMORROW.  BORDEN PARK, OLIVER AND MILLCREEK ONLY......THEY'LL BE OPEN FROM 11AM TIL 7PM EACH DAY THROUGHOUT THE SEASON.

Digging in the dirt

Ahh the long weekend is coming AND it's gonna be nice!  How often have we all experienced the chilly May long weekend....shivering around a bonfire with our camping friends, laughing about the weather as we try to make the most of a miserable situation?  This weekend promises to be different--well i don't want to jinx it.

Like many others I will be digging in the dirt...my wife does the bedding plants and I do the garden. To be honest I was going to take a year off the vegetable garden but then my in laws showed up with seed potatoes and cheerfully informed me how happy they were that I would have fresh vegetables again.   I truly do love gardening --especially tomatoes--its just trying to find the time to do everything through our too short summers.

GIVE ME A HOLE TO HIDE IN

SO AM I THE ONLY ONE WHO THINKS THE WORLD HAS LOST ITS MARBLES LATELY?

 EARTHQUAKES, CYCLONES, COP SWARMINGS, BEATING DEFENCELESS ANIMALS, KILLER TORNADOES, RECESSION, SKYHIGH GAS PRICES........IT JUST NEVER STOPS.... WHEN I WAS FIRST STARTING OUT IN RADIO, I USED TO GET PUMPED UP ABOUT THE PROSPECT OF "BIG NEWS STORIES".   NOW I'M JUST SICKENED BY IT ALL.   DOING WHAT WE DO FOR A LIVING, WE REALLY DONT HAVE THE OPTION OF NOT READING, WATCHING OR PREPARING THE NEWS OURSELVES.  (DONT GET ME WRONG--I LOVE WHAT I DO FOR A LIVING)--BUT THERE ARE TIMES WHEN I WOULD LOVE TO CRAWL INTO A HOLE AND JUST STAY THERE WHILE THE WORLD SORTS ITSELF OUT. (IF THATS POSSIBLE)

-ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE SPECTRUM--THERE ARE GROUPS SUCH AS THE ANIMAL CANCER THERAPY SUBSIDIZATION SOCIETY AND THE PEOPLE AT "A DIRTY DOG SPA" ON 100TH AVE AND 157TH STREET.  I HAD A GREAT TIME THIS PAST SATURDAY CLEANING UP SOME DIRTY POOCHIES--ALL IN THE NAME OF HELPING PET OWNERS WHOSE FUZZY GUYS HAVE BEEN HIT BY CANCER--PAY FOR THE TREATMENTS THEY NEED.  THERE WERE 6 GROOMERS IN THE AREA TAKING PART IN THE DAY---AND I'VE HEARD THRU THE GRAPEVINE THAT THE DIRTY DOG SPA ITSELF RAISED ABOUT 3-THOUSAND DOLLARS FOR THE CAUSE.   (AND OWNER MARGARET AND HER PEEPS DID IT WITH SMILES ON THEIR FACES).  I WAS BEAT BY THE END OF THE DAY---BUT ITS NICE TO GO HOME WITH A REAL SENSE OF ACCOMPLISHMENT.  BY THE WAY--WE SHOULD FIND OUT LATER THIS WEEK JUST HOW MUCH THE SPRING DOG WASH MADE IN TOTAL--SO AS SOON AS I KNOW--I'LL PASS IT ON. (AS A SIDENOTE---WHEN A GROOMER RECOMMENDS THAT YOU WEAR SAFETY GOGGLES TO KEEP THE FUR OUT OF YOUR EYES WHEN YOU'RE BLOW DRYING A DOG---TAKE THEIR ADVICE--PLEEEEEEASE!!)

But Why....?

Its so hard to imagine and every parents worst nightmare.  The late night phone call from Police telling you that your child has been involved in a car crash and they are on the way to the hospital.  The Panic!  Heart pounding fear and then of course the questions....Is he okay?  What happened?  Who was driving?  Was it his fault?

"Your Son was hit by a Drunk Driver"  Oh my god!  "He was tee boned at an intersection by a speeding, red light running drunk". " His car flipped over and caught on fire...he's been badly burned".  "Oh and by the way--the drunk driver was an off duty police officer"!   Stunned silence.

18 year old Robert Wasyliw suffered a broken collarbone and burned back that will require skin grafts.  I've had skin grafts.  Its very painful and takes a long time to heal.  Your scarred for life and have to be very careful in the sun and with infections.  Robert is Alive.  Thank God!

LAST CHANCE DAWGWASH & OLD GUYS ON BIKES

OKAY EVERYONE---ITS FRIDAY--AND TOMORROW---I'M WASHING DAWGS AT THE DIRTY DOG SPA ON 100TH AVENUE AND 157TH STREET (IN THE AFTERNOON).  ITS THE ANIMAL CANCER THERAPY SUBSIDIZATION SOCIETY'S 9TH ANNUAL SPRING DOG WASH---WITH 100-PERCENT OF THE PROCEEDS GOING TO HELP PET OWNERS WHOSE FUZZY GUYS HAVE BEEN HIT BY CANCER.   ITS A GREAT CAUSE--AND BEST OF ALL---YOU DONT HAVE TO DEAL WITH THAT WET DOG SMELL  YOURSELF!!

-TICKETS ARE GOING LIKE WILDFIRE FOR THE "SPEAKING OF WOMENS HEALTH" CONFERENCE FOR THE LOIS HOLE HOSPITAL FOR WOMEN.  IT HAPPENS SATURDAY-OCTOBER 4TH AT THE SHAW CONFERENCE CENTRE.  THERE'S ROOM FOR 800 PEOPLE.  MORE THAN 600 TIX HAVE BEEN SOLD AT THIS POINT--AND THEY JUST STARTED SELLING THEM THE OTHER DAY.   CALL 735-4012 TO GET YOURS TODAY.

HOSPITALS AND DIRTY DAWGS

SORRY I MISSED YESTERDAY--BUT THERE WAS A GOOD REASON--SHANE AND I WERE AT THE NEWS CONFERENCE FOR A BIG FUNDRAISER FOR THE LOIS HOLE HOSPITAL FOR WOMEN YESTERDAY.   ITS A GREAT DEAL--ITS CALLED THE "SPEAKING OF WOMENS HEALTH" CONFERENCE--AND HAPPENS SATURDAY, OCTOBER 4TH AT THE SHAW CONFERENCE CENTRE.   ITS A DAY LONG EVENT THAT WILL FEATURE KEYNOTE SPEAKERS, ALL SORTS OF HEALTH SCREENING AND SESSIONS ON HEALTH, WELLNESS, MONEY MANAGEMENT, PERSONAL SAFETY, FAMILY RELATIONS AND MORE.  AND EDMONTON IS THE FIRST CANADIAN SITE FOR THIS EVENT----SO ITS A MAJOR SCORE FOR THE CITY AND THE LOIS HOLE HOSPITAL.   THE CONFERENCE IS REALLY AFFORDABLE TOO---ONLY 40-BUCKS FOR TICKETS--AND THAT INCLUDES FOOD AND A GOODIE BAG WORTH ABOUT $150.  ITS NOT TIL OCTOBER, BUT ITS EXPECTED TO SELL OUT--SO GET YOUR TICKETS NOW----CALL 735-4012 OR HEAD TO www.capitalhealth.ca/speakingofwomenshealth.

The Roundup

Still lots of heat on Premier Stlemach regarding the duck deaths on the Syncrude pond of death.  The premier pointed out that more than 30,000 migratory birds die each year because of wind turbines however he refused to answer my question.  How would you rather die...suddenly and instantly from a wind turbine that you didn't see coming or...slowly drowning in toxic goo.   Ya, not surprisingly most people would pick the wind turbine.  I'm just saying.

Wanna go golfing with me?  I will be hosting The Realty Executives 2008 Golf For Food Tournament.  Its Friday June 20th ( first day of summer).   Interesting people Realtors and a very fun tournament.

$125 for the full deal including steak dinner...its at River Ridge so the scenery is gorgeous.  Call Crystal if your interested 231-9401

LIL O'THIS AND THAT--ITS FRIDAY!!

ITS BEEN AN INTERESTING WEEK--NEWSWISE AND PERSONALLY. 

-HOW ARE YOU FEELING ABOUT THE TRAGEDY AT SYNCRUDE'S TAILINGS POND?  I SAW SOME LETTERS IN THE PAPER TODAY FROM PEOPLE WHO SAY----"THEY'RE JUST DUCKS".    WHAT A SAD OUTLOOK ON LIFE--I HOPE THOSE INDIVIDUALS GET THE BIG PICTURE SOME DAY. 

-THE MILEY CYRUS VANITY FAIR PICTURE DEBACLE....COME ON ALREADY!!  SHE'S 15!  I KNOW I DID SOME "NOT SO WELL INFORMED" THINGS WHEN I WAS A TEENAGER--AND I'M WILLING TO BET THE PARENTS WHO ARE LIGHTING THEIR TORCHES AND THREATENING TO STORM THE CASTLE WITH PITCHFORKS IN HAND DID WHEN THEY WERE HER AGE AS WELL.  

-MOVIEWISE--I KNOW SHANE WAS GUNNING FOR "IRONMAN" (WHICH OPENS TODAY) AND "SPEEDRACER" (WHICH IS STILL ON THE WAY).  I MYSELF AM LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEW "INDIANA JONES" MOVIE--AND "SEX AND THE CITY"----BOTH OPEN LATER THIS MONTH---SO I'LL PASS ON A REVIEW ONCE I SEE THEM.

pop culture mash up

And here I thought we had taken care of old man winter!  With a nasty turn in the weather -again, I buried my head in some pop culture and entertainment news.

 

First up...do you think the whole brouha over Miley Cyrus is overblown?  Yes she's a 15 year old superstar and role model for many.  Were the photos a mistake , inappropriate....were they scandalous?  It all seems so over blown.  I love her Hannah Montana show , my kids and I watch it all the time.  She is talented and quite funny but we're not gonna go overboard on this story.

Since I have kids most of the movies I watch are family flicks.  I am looking forward to seeing Iron Man--opening this weekend.  I've heard its great and I love to see men fly!  Also on the horizon one of my favorite childhood shows  "Speed Racer" and for sure we'll go see the new Indian Jones movie.  Its cool to be able to share the stories you saw as a kid with your own kids.  Now if they could only do a new version of Johnny Quest!  The new Batman movie looks pretty dark (which the comics really were back in the day) There's an on line trailer of the new movie which debuts on sunday at www.whysoserious.com/happytrails.com

FUN THINGS TO DO----EZ ROCK STYLE!!

-THERE'S NO DOUBT THERE'S ALWAYS SOMETHING TO DO IN TOWN--SO TODAY-I THOUGHT I'D RUN DOWN WHATS ON THE GO THIS WEEKEND---AND GIVE YOU A FEW THINGS TO THINK ABOUT OR SIGN UP FOR THAT YOUR LITTLE MORNING BUDDIES WILL BE INVOLVED IN THE WEEKS TO COME....

-TOMORROW & SUNDAY:  THE EDMONTON HEALTH AND WELLNESS SHOW AT THE MAYFIELD INN.   MORE THAN 150 EXHIBITORS, FITNESS GURUS HAL JOHNSON AND JOANNE MCLEOD WILL BE THERE TOMORROW, THERE'S GOING TO BE A BLOOD GLUCOSE TEST, A BONE DENSITY TEST AND THERE'S EVEN A BOOTH WHERE YOU CAN GET YOUR SUNGLASSES CHECKED TO SEE IF THEY ACTUALLY DO PREVENT THE SUN'S RAYS FROM REACHING YOUR PEEPERS.  FOR MORE INFO ON THE SHOW--HEAD TO www.edmontonhealthandwellness.com. 

FUN THINGS TO DO----EZ ROCK STYLE!!

-THERE'S NO DOUBT THERE'S ALWAYS SOMETHING TO DO IN TOWN--SO TODAY-I THOUGHT I'D RUN DOWN WHATS ON THE GO THIS WEEKEND---AND GIVE YOU A FEW THINGS TO THINK ABOUT OR SIGN UP FOR THAT YOUR LITTLE MORNING BUDDIES WILL BE INVOLVED IN THE WEEKS TO COME....

-TOMORROW & SUNDAY:  THE EDMONTON HEALTH AND WELLNESS SHOW AT THE MAYFIELD INN.   MORE THAN 150 EXHIBITORS, FITNESS GURUS HAL JOHNSON AND JOANNE MCLEOD WILL BE THERE TOMORROW, THERE'S GOING TO BE A BLOOD GLUCOSE TEST, A BONE DENSITY TEST AND THERE'S EVEN A BOOTH WHERE YOU CAN GET YOUR SUNGLASSES CHECKED TO SEE IF THEY ACTUALLY DO PREVENT THE SUN'S RAYS FROM REACHING YOUR PEEPERS.  FOR MORE INFO ON THE SHOW--HEAD TO www.edmontonhealthandwellness.com. 

SNOW SHOVELLING KARMA =)

SO HOW MANY TIMES THIS WEEK HAVE YOU ALREADY HEARD THIS PHRASE:---"OH MY GOD!!!  CAN YOU BELIEVE THIS???  ITS APRIL???!!!" 

SHANE, ROBIN AND I TOOK THE BOOTS TO OLD MAN WINTER THIS MORNING WHEN HE DECIDED IN HIS INFINITE "UNWISDOM" TO PAY US A VISIT IN THE STUDIO.  WE SUSPECT HE'LL BE BACK TOMORROW---AND IF SO----WE'LL DO IT AGAIN---AND ITS GOING TO BE LIKE THE ULTIMATE FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP....WHERE--IN THE WORDS OF "FRIENDS" ALUMNI CHANDLER BING----"THE RULES ARE----THERE ARE NO RULES!!!"

-ONE GOOD THING THAT DID COME OUT OF THE ONGOING SNOWPARTY--IS THAT I DECIDED TO BE A NICE PERSON AND SHOVEL THE PARKING LOT AND THE WALKS OUTSIDE MY APARTMENT BUILDING YESTERDAY.  (MAINLY BECAUSE NO ONE ELSE SEEMED TO BE DOING IT AND MY DOG WAS HAVING TROUBLE GETTING OUTSIDE FOR THE THINGS THAT DOGS NEED TO DO).  AT ANY RATE---I DO BELIEVE IN KARMA--BECAUSE I GOT MY TAXES DONE TODAY----AND I'M GETTING A REFUND!!!!  YAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!     (ITS NOT A BIG ONE--BUT I REALLY DONT CARE AS LONG AS I DONT HAVE TO GIVE $ TO "THE MAN".

WHAT A WEEK--AND MORE TO COME---$$$$$$$$$$$$$

WOW--ITS BEEN AN INCREDIBLE WEEK HERE AT 104.9 EZ ROCK--WHAT WITH THE 10-THOUSAND DOLLAR CALLER CONTEST NOW IN FULL SWING.    EVERYONE WHO'S BEEN THE 9TH CALLER HAS WON A STACK OF SCRATCH AND WIN TICKETS--AND THEY'RE NOW ALL QUALIFIED TO WIN THAT BIGTIME JACKPOT OF 10-GRANDARONI!!!!    IF I WAS ABLE TO PLAY AND WIN---LETS JUST SAY THE VISA PEOPLE WOULD BE VERY VERY HAPPY WITH ME.  (BLASTED CREDIT CARDS!) 

IF YOU'RE WONDERING HOW IT ALL WORKS BY THE WAY---YOU CAN CLICK BACK TO OUR HOME PAGE--BUT BASICALLY-ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS LISTEN FOR THE CUE TO CALL (ITS VERY DIRECT)--BE THE 9TH CALLER THRU AT 437-4949---AND THEN YOU'VE GOT YOURSELF AN INSTANT PRIZE AND A VERY GOOD CHANCE AT SNAGGING THAT 10-GRAND.  WE'RE MAKING THE BIG DRAW--THE FIRST WEEK OF JUNE.  DONT MISS  YOUR OPPORTUNITY!!!

YOUR CHANCE TO WIN $$!!! AND SHANE'S BACK

WELL ITS ALL UNDERWAY--THE BIG CONTEST WE'VE BEEN TELLING YOU ABOUT--THE EASIEST CONTEST IN TOWN.....THE EZ ROCK 10-THOUSAND DOLLAR CALLER!!!  AND IT COULD BE YOU!!!  WE KICKED IT OFF YESTERDAY MORNING---AND ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS LISTEN TO 104.9 EZ ROCK.  WHEN YOU HEAR THAT CUE TO CALL (TRUST ME--ITS OBVIOUS)--BE THE 9TH CALLER THRU AT 437-4949---THEN YOU WIN AN INSTANT PRIZE--AND YOU'RE QUALIFIED TO WIN THAT 10-GRAND!!!   I COULD NOT POSSIBLY PUT IN MORE EXCLAMATION POINTS!!!!!!  (OKAY--MAYBE I COULD!!!)  ANYWAY--MAKE SURE TO KEEP LISTENING--TELL YOUR FAMILY AND YOUR BUDS---AND WE MAKE THE DRAW FOR THE MAJOR BUCKS--THE 1ST WEEK OF JUNE.....(WOW--I'M WORN OUT JUST WRITING ABOUT IT)

-SHANE'S BACK FROM HIS VACATION--NO WORSE FOR THE WEAR OR HOWEVER THAT GOES.  DESPITE WHAT HANS THE RESORT GUY TOLD US ON THE PHONE LAST WEEK, SHANER DOESNT SEEM TO HAVE ANY MONKEY OR KOMODO DRAGON BITES.....(BUT THEN I DIDNT TAKE A REALLY CLOSE LOOK).  HE DID BRING ROBIN AND I SOME SOUVENIRS FROM THE TRIP TO MEXICO THOUGH---LITTLE PLASTIC IGUANAS.  (MINE HAS GOOGLY EYES THAT SEEM TO FOLLOW ME NO MATTER WHERE I AM IN THE ROOM)  HE'S SITTING ON MY COMPUTER AS WE SPEAK. 

TOMORROW'S THE BIG DAY---FOR YOU!

WE'VE BEEN TEASING YOU SINCE LAST WEEKEND ABOUT THIS---AND FINALLY--THE DETAILS ON EZ ROCK'S 10-THOUSAND DOLLAR CALLER CONTEST WILL BE GIVEN TOMORROW MORNING---SO BE SURE TO LISTEN TO THE EZ ROCK MORNING SHOW.   THATS RIGHT---NOT ONLY WILL IT BE HIGHLY ENTERTAININING----BUT WE'LL HAVE GOOD NEWS TOO!!!  YAY!!!!  ITS A GREAT CHANCE FOR YOU TO WIN SOME SERIOUS COIN.  (BY THE WAY--THE CONTEST ACTUALLY KICKS INTO GEAR THIS COMING MONDAY--JUST IN TIME FOR SHANE TO GET BACK FROM HIS LITTLE VACATION IN MEXICO----THE BIG GLORY HOG!!)    BUT WE LOVE HIM ANYWAY.   (AND REMIND ME TO ASK HIM ABOUT THE ADVENTURES HE WAS ON WHILE DOWN THERE----WE WERE TOLD ALL SORTS OF CRAZY STORIES ABOUT MONKEYS AND KOMODO DRAGONS----AND DONT GET ME STARTED ON HIS DANCE AND TENNIS LESSONS)   AT ANY RATE--WE'LL BE HAPPY TO HAVE HIM BACK.

HOLIDAY BOY AND CASH CASH CASH!!!!

SHANE THE HOLIDAY BOY IS OFF ON VACATION AGAIN (YES--AGAIN!!!!!--BUT DONT TELL HIM I SAID THAT).   ANYWAY---RON CLARK HAS BEEN KIND ENOUGH TO JOIN ROBIN ALLEN AND ME MONDAY AND TUESDAY--AND THEN WE KIDS ARE ALLOWED TO BRING DOWN THE HOUSE ALL BY OURSELVES.....(AND AT SOME POINT--WE'RE GOING TO BE CALLING SHANE AT HIS LITTLE MEXICAN RESORT---SO WE'LL FIND OUT WHAT HE'S UP TO ANYWAY)

-WE'VE GOT A VERY INTERESTING EMAIL TO SHARE WITH YOU FOR MAILBAG MONDAY BY THE WAY--AND WE'D LOVE TO HEAR WHAT YOU HAVE TO SAY ABOUT IT.   HAS TO DO WITH MORE WEDDING GIFTS---AND THE LENGTH OF MARRIAGES.......(ITS A DOOZY!!!) BE SURE TO CALL US MONDAY MORNING AT 437-4949.........

-THE EDMONTON HOME AND GARDEN SHOW IS ON AT THE AGRICOM ALL THIS WEEKEND---AND WHILE I DONT HAVE A HOME TO RENO--YOU'VE GOT A CHANCE TO WIN A 10-THOUSAND DOLLAR BATHROOM MAKEOVER--JUST BE HEADING TO THE EZ ROCK BOOTH WHILE YOU'RE THERE.....(I AM HOWEVER--GOING TO CHECK OUT THE PAMPERED POOCH FASHION SHOW--SINCE MY "BIG BONED" DOGGIE MAY BE IN NEED OF A NEW AND HAPPENIN' HOODIE.  (PLUS ITS A GREAT WAY TO HELP OUT THE EDMONTON HUMANE SOCIETY).

watching and waiting

Overheard in the Costco store, while shopping for my annual new shorts of spring. "I was wearing my Capri's on the weekend and it was so great, I just wanna put some sandals on but it's too cold"!

I'm more of a hiking shorts kind of guy, but I can sure relate.  April can be a cruel month for those of us anxious to expose our legs to the sun.  I settled on a cool pair of cargo style hikers in a lovely greenish tan.  There's probably a better colour description but I don't know it.

There is still a good 10cm in my backyard behind the big spruce and poplar trees.  Various dog trails spider across the yard where Lola and Buster have made their daily rounds...who knows what lurks under that snow!

My wife and the two boys will once again venture to Mexico soon.  One week golfing and lazing by the beach.  A brief chance to bridge that gap between the arrival of Spring in March and when Spring really arrives....well, whenever.  Did you go on an interesting winter getaway...maybe the trip of a lifetime?  why not email me...love to hear your  tale smichaels@radio.astral.com

what goes around, comes around

Don't know if you've seen this one but it is true and pretty amazing!

His name was fleming, and he was a poor Scottish farmer.  One day, while trying to make a living for his family, he heard a cry for help coming from a nearby bog.  He dropped his tools and ran to the bog.  There, mired to his waist in black muck, was a terrified boy, screaming and struggling to free himself.  Farmer Fleming saved the lad from what could have been a slow and terrifying death.  The next day , a fancy carriage pulled up to the Scotsman's sparse surroundings.

An elegantly dressed nobleman stepped out and introduced himself as the father of the boy fleming had saved.  "I want to repay you," said the nobleman.  "You saved my son's life."  "No, I can't accept payment for what I did," the Scottish farmer replied, waving off the offer.

At that moment, the farmer's own son came out the door of the family hovel.  "Is that your son?" the nobleman asked. "Yes" the farmer replied proudly.  "I'll make you a deal .  Let me provide him with the level of education my son will enjoy.  If the lad is anything like his father he'll no doubt grow to be a man we both will be proud of."  And that he did

Father Fleming's son attended the very best schools ane in time, he graduated from St. Mary's Hospital Medical School in London, and went on to become known throughout the world as the noted Sir Alexander Fleming, the discoverer of Penicillin.

Years afterward, the same nobleman's son who was saved from the bog was stricken with pneumonia.  What saved his life this time?  Penicillin.  The name of the nobleman?  Lord Randolph Churchill.  His son's name?  Sir winston Churchill.  someone once said: What goes around comes around.  And remember that the person you help today could wind up helping you tomorrow.

 

Shane 

 

TIME CHANGE--AND THANK GOD SPRING'S ON THE WAY!!!

THE TIME CHANGE HAS COME EARLY!!! THE TIME CHANGE HAS COME EARLY!!!  THIS IS THE WEEKEND TO TURN YOUR CLOCKS AHEAD ONE HOUR....DO IT BEFORE YOU GO TO BED TOMORROW NIGHT OR DO IT AFTER YOU ROLL OUT OF SLUMBERLAND SUNDAY AFTERNOON--ITS ALL GOOD.  (OF COURSE, NO MATTER HOW INFORMATIVE I THINK I AM--I ALWAYS MANAGE TO FORGET---SO THEN THERE'S THE BIG SCRAMBLE MONDAY MORNING....

THE LAST FEW MONTHS HAVE BEEN PRETTY EXCITING FOR ME.  I GOT CABLE IN SEPTEMBER AFTER NOT HAVING HAD IT FOR A FEW YEARS-----AND I GOT MY FIRST DIGITAL CAMERA THIS WEEK.  SHANE AND ROBIN ARE POSITIVELY THRILLED---THEY'VE BEEN SUBJECTED NON-STOP TO MY MINI-HOME MOVIES OF MY DOG COLBY. 

-SPEAKING OF THE DOGGY---I'M GETTING PRETTY EXCITED ABOUT THE UPCOMING WEEKEND--BECAUSE ITS PAJAMA PARTY TIME AT THE JASPER PARK LODGE......WOMEN OF ALL AGES WILL BE DESCENDING UPON THE JPL FOR A WEEKEND OF BONDING--THRU AN HONEST TO GOD JAMMIE PARTY, THEN ALL SORTS OF COOL SEMINARS ON THE SATURDAY---AND OF COURSE--JASPER HAS GOT TO BE ONE OF THE MOST GORGEOUS PLACES ON THIS PLANET.  (THERE'S A SMALL CONTINGENT OF WE EZ ROCK GIRLIES HEADING OUT--AND MY DOG IS GOING TO BE OUR OFFICIAL MASCOT---HE'S A BOY--BUT HE DESERVES A WEEKEND OFF TOO)

helping seniors and websites

104.9 EZ rock is doing as much as possible for those poor seniors who had to deal with a devasting fire at the Britannia Gardens apartments.  The facility is run by The  Greater Edmonton  Foundation, a non profit agency that provides affordable housing for seniors.  Over 70 elderly people were displaced by the fire and 7 people lost everything they own!  The foundation is looking for donations of mens and womens clothing and small furniture items...as well as cash.

You can drop off new and gently used items at their office 14220 109ave.  Their office number is 482-6561 if you have any questions.  Thank you for helping out!

The University is offering a free fun day for kids age 5 to 12.  My youngest son always reminds me its "Children Dad", "I'm not a goat".  During science sunday children will explore natural science through many fun activities 12 to 4pm March 2nd.   More information at 492-5834 or visit www.museums.ualberta.ca

Japer Park Lodge.  Just the name conjures up such a soothing feeling--I just love it there and you can find out more about the 'Pajama Party In Jasper" March 14-16.  Cheryl will be heading to this great event once again and for more call 1-800-441-1414 or on the web at www.thepajamaparty.info

 

Favorite time waster web site of the week.  And a great resource for anyone who can't remember the name of a song but they can recall the rhythm .  Just use your computer space bar to tap out the rhythm of a song stuck in your head and the computer does the rest...figuring out the mystery song.  go to www.songtapper.com

And finally I  am frequently asked about travel and how to find the best deals.  The best website I've ever found for it is www.belairtravel.com. They are advertising on 104.9 EZ Rock and I've used the site to check out great deals as its very easy to use....just fill out details like where you're travelling from and where    you would like to go and the site kicks out hundreds of great deals on vacation packages.  Their phone operators are also very nice and I have booked several trips through the site.  happy travelling

till next time,

 

Shane 

 

 

FREE BREAKY, GREAT SERVICE AND SO MUCH MORE!!

I WOULD HAVE DONE THIS BLOG YESTERDAY, BUT IT TOOK A WHILE FOR MY FINGERS TO THAW OUT FROM YESTERDAY'S OUTSIDE EXCURSION.  THERE WERE A WHACK OF US FROM EZ ROCK OUT DURING THE MORNING SHOW YESTERDAY--HANDING OUT FREE BREAKFAST PACKS AT THE INTERSECTION OF 42ND AVE AND CALGARY TRAIL----AND DESPITE THE FACT IT WAS DOWNRIGHT CHILLY---IT WAS A TON OF FUN.  WE JUST WANTED TO STRESS THE IMPORTANCE OF HAVING A HEALTHY BREAKFAST--ESPECIALLY SO FOR KIDS IF THEY'RE GOING TO DO WELL IN SCHOOL.  BIG HUGS TO THE BREAKFAST CLUBS OF CANADA WHICH SPEARHEADED THE PROJECT---AND MASSIVE HATS OFF TO OUR STREET TEAM PEOPLE--WHO SPENT THE ENTIRE MORNING OUTSIDE--DODGING TRAFFIC (AND ALL WITH BIG SMILES ON THEIR FACES!!)  THIS JUST MIGHT BECOME AN ANNUAL EVENT (I'M HOPING THEY MOVE IT TO SEPTEMBER----I'M SUCH A WIMP WEATHERWISE).  BY THE WAY--IF YOU BUY DESIGNATED ITEMS AT WAL-MART---A PORTION OF THE PROCEEDS WILL GO TOWARDS THE BREAKFAST CLUBS OF CANADA PROGRAM......

clean out your computer day

Computers.  Like a belly button...everbodys got them.  Well almost everyone. If your like me it's a love, hate relationship...can't live with them can't live without them.  I secretly envy those who don't have to always be in touch...checking web sites and email, staying on top of stories and assignments.  Living "Off the Grid" as they say.  For now most of us have to keep our home PC's and work computers up and running smoothly so thats why we have an official Clean out Your Computer day.  The fastest way to do this is: a) go through all your files deleting the ones you don't need anymore b) hire a technician to come in and clean up your system c) run a scan disk  d)just buy a new one and throw the old one out.  I know that (d)seems a bit extreme but sometimes these virus's can make your computer a total mess not to mention that they can get outdated pretty quickly.  Its our whole disposable society.

Here's a few "free" suggestions courtesy of our broadcast engineers.  You can get tips on the website www.ibt-pep.com and click on "tips" in the menu.  There's a great free downloadable  virus scan at www.avg.com . And to clean your computers C drive...use google to search for "c drive".  There are several free ones that clean out all kinds of junk.

Another site that we mentioned a while ago still has people interested is regarding old school parenting and how todays kids have a sense of entitlement.  Very interesting stuff at www.parentingbythebook.com

Had a nice trip out to BC to visit my mom and her husband.  My kids call them Granny and Papa. Funny how every family has different names for grandparents.  The Okanogan area is slowing down for residential home building but the resort/vacation industry is still booming.  They had losts of snow but its melting quickly and I suspect the golf season is about 3 weeks away.  Their spring is so much sooner than ours.  Also I noticed that everywhere in BC now you have to pay before you fill up gas.  Like the United States the incidents of "Gas and Dash" means gas stations force you to pay first...personally I find it a major pain in the neck.

Looking forward to my next story on "What's up Wednesday"...it sounds like an urban myth but its true..."The Exploding Whale"! 

till then,

 

Shane 

 

 

  

 

 

NEW PICS, STAY WARM--AND I'M NOT YELLING

(I'M NOT "YELLING"----MY TYPING IS JUST A LOT FASTER THIS WAY)

(AND HOPEFULLY THERE'S GOING TO BE A NEW PICTURE SOON---BECAUSE I DONT REALLY LOOK LIKE THIS ANYMORE--AND NO ONE BELIEVES ME WHEN I TELL THEM WHO I AM)

ITS FRIDAY--THANK GOD,  BECAUSE I PLAN TO CRAWL UNDER THE COVERS THIS WEEKEND AND STAY THERE GIVEN HOW COLD ITS GOING TO BE.  SHANE'S OFF TO BC TO DO A LITTLE VISITING (BY THE WAY--HIS B-DAY IS NEXT SUNDAY---SO MAKE SURE YOU TELL HIM HOW OLD HE'S GETTING--SEEING AS HOW HE KEEPS RUBBING IT INTO ME ON HOW I'M TURNING 40 THIS YEAR. ).....AND ROBIN--I BELIEVE HE'S CONCOCTING ONE OF HIS ODDBALL STEWS THIS WEEKEND.  ROBIN IS OF THE NOTION THAT SARDINES, BLUE CHEESE AND OLIVES GO WITH EVERYTHING.  (I'M PRETTY SURE HE'LL NEVER HAVE HIS OWN SHOW ON THE FOOD NETWORK).  

KIDS, CRITTERS, AND KINDNESS

THIS IS MY FIRST SHOT AT DOING THE MORNING SHOW BLOG, SO IF THINGS SEEM SOMEWHAT ASKEW, I PROMISE I'LL GET BETTER.  (MY TYPING IS STILL BETTER THAN SHANE'S =) )

AT ANY RATE--TODAY WAS "WHATS UP WEDNESDAY" ON THE MORNING SHOW--WHEN WE PROVIDE A FEW MORE DETAILS ON STORIES YOU MAY BE CONCERNED WITH OR JUST WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT....AND TODAY WE RAN A SEGMENT ABOUT "SENSORY PROCESSING DISORDER".  MOST PEOPLE ARE FAMILIAR WITH AUTISM---"SPD" IS THE OPPOSITE--WHEN CHILDREN FEEL TOO MUCH--SENSORY OVERLOAD.  THERE'S A CONFERENCE IN TOWN THIS FRIDAY AND SATURDAY--AND WHILE ITS FILLED TO CAPACITY--I THOUGHT IT WOULD BE NICE TO PROVIDE YOU WITH SOME WEBSITE YOU CAN LINK TO IN ORDER TO GET MORE INDEPTH DETAILS...  THERE'S A FEW--INCLUDING:

changes to the telephone system

Here's an interesting notice that came our way from Telecommunications Alberta regarding a big change in the coming months .  Get your dialing finger ready!

 

Telecommunications      http://www.servicelink.gov.ab.ca/Telecom/index.cfm [Image]       

New Area Code and Ten Digit Dialing Coming Soon to Alberta

 

As a result of increased demand for services, Alberta has been assigned a new area code that takes effect this summer. The new area code will also mean 10-digit dialing even for local calls. After September 8, 2008, you won't be able to make 7-digit local calls, you will have to dial the area code and the 7-digit number. To help customers prepare, the industry is phasing in a "permissive dialing period" from June 23, 2008. During this period, when you dial 7 digits for a local call you will hear an announcement reminding you to use 10-digit dialing the next time you make a local call. Then your call will be connected.

Your input

A great big thank you for all the input from you the listener!   Over the last few months we have revamped the morning show somewhat featuring various theme days that lean on listenr advice and suggestions.  And the repsonse has been great.  From Mailbag Monday we can draw on the mood of listeners and whats going on in their lives.  Send your email to me at smichaels@radio.astral.com

Family Matters Tuesday has been very interesting especially from a fathers perspective.  Just to find out what other parents and families are going through.  Lets face it , there are a lot of tough issues out there and raising kids is a hard job.  We do our best to offer support and practical advice and once in a while have agood laugh.

jasper is calling

It seems like we should be nesting after the Christmas break but there is no better time to hit the slopes than January.  I've been a big fan of the Jasper in January festival for many years.  Not only is it a great mid winter break and a fun family get away but it's in one of my favorite places--Jasper.  Not only is the great National park full of wondrous scenery...the town itself is so warm, cozy and peaceful...it makes me think of a simpler time in the not so distant past.

One of the big draws of Jasper in January is the reduced prices on everything from hotel rooms to lift tickets.  Ez Rock is also a proud sponsor of the Snow bus to Jasper and there's the incredible VIA Rail Snow Train option too .  The toughest thing for me when I go to Jasper is leaving at the end of the weekend!

healthy again

Happy New Year!

Its that time of year again...new beginnings, staying healthy...self improvment.  I don't usually go all crazy about setting unrealistic goals however looking at the weight scale and the notch on my belt...it's time to get serious about exercising.  Like a lot of people I seem to run out of time during certain seasons and get too busy to stay active.  This past summer and fall it was the combination of a large home renovation project and breaking the handlebars on my stationary bike!  The painting had to be done and besides the bike wasn't available.  It became easy to make excuses.  The real problem kicked in when we went on a two week holiday (all inclusive buffet!) followed by the usual excess of Christmas.  Unfortunalty the longer we ignore these things the harder it becomes to loose the weight.  And unfortunatly I do love food.  Oh well, I also love working out and playing sports.  It's just that darn time factor .  Here's hoping you stay healthy this year.

welcome to the blog

Welcome to the blog.  Yes I've joined the millions who post on line musings , news , jokes and information for you to peruse at your leisure.   I think you'll find a lot of miscellanious ramblings about a wide variety topics that interest me. If you have comments or suggestions please email me at smichaels@ezrock.com.

Lets start by thanking you for tuning into the EZ Rock morning show with myself ,Cheryl Brooks and Robin Allen.  We have a lot of fun and I feel very lucky to have such a cool job.  Okay getting up at 3;45am is not cool but the rest is.  Incidentally did you see that new British Study that has found a lack of sleep can more than double your risk of heart attack?  Get a good sleep!