Much love and thanks to all those who sent in their suggestion for The Hek's "X-Men" name.

Also, the situation with a certain comment board (see Tuesday's post) has been corrected. Much love to that as well.

The Hek's Podcasts

Lots of people write down their dreams and try to interpret them. Well last night, The Hek had the strangest dream. Find out what it was in this latest experimental podcast.

Experimental Podcast #8 MP3 file

Experimental Podcast RSS Feed Link

The Hek

Not everyone is thrilled that the Argonauts have signed Ricky Williams. This should come as no surprise. Williams has caused many headaches within the Miami Dolphins as well as the National Football League.

Many such as Joe Theismann, have voiced their concerns. Theismann, a former Argo and Washington Redskin, stated that what Toronto has done is an absolute disgrace to the sport of football. In an interview with the FAN 590, Thiesmann expressed a deep sense of embarrassment for playing with the same team that has "stooped to this level to sell tickets, to bring in someone who is not worthy of playing professional football."

For their part, the Argos are arguing that people do make mistakes and no one is perfect. Head Coach Mike Clemens noted that his team does not go out and show people how to behave; instead, his players make up any mistakes they have made by going out and making a difference in the community, trying to prevent people from making similar mistakes. This will be Williams' role off the field.

Andy Barrie brings up an interesting point which deals with how we view those who use Marijuana. In Canada (and this does not represent the opinions of all Canadians), we do not necessarily condemn because we view Marijuana as a less harmful drug compared to Cocaine or Crystal Meth. We understand that some people smoke because they are going through a tough medical condition or that they need a "vacation" from the daily stress. In the U.S., they view Marijuana as an extremely harmful drug. Americans (and this does not represent the opinions of all Americans)tend to put their "heroes" on gigantic pedestals. When these so-called heroes conduct activity such as drug use, it causes a moral panic. Therefore, it is understandable why Williams is not viewed in the kindest of lights.

In the meantime, the only real concern should be how Ricky Williams performs this year. Will he lead the Argos to the Grey Cup; or, will he be a complete bust in Canada? Time will tell.

The Hek

That's odd.

I could have sworn that both Billy Ruffian and I made comments on this particular entry. Weird, very weird.

Last night, I watched X3. While most X-Men purists absolutely despise the film, I thought it was entertaining. It's not the best film in the series but rather, one of those films where if you go in with no expectations, you'll enjoy yourself.

It got me thinking: If I was a member of the X-Men, what type of mutant power would I want? I'd have to say that first and foremost, I'd want to have X-ray vision. That would give me the power to see things and get a clearer picture of my surrounding before anyone else. I would also like telekinesis. If I could read minds, my life would be a lot easier. Finally, I would love to have the power to jump over tall structures. I don't know exactly why I would want that trait. But I do feel it would separate me from the other mutants.

Now all I need is a mutant name like Nightcrawler and Wolverine. Any suggestions?

The Hek

I don't know about the rest of you but, I'm really concerned about the Detroit Tigers.

sing me to sleep
with a tenor note
dancing into my ears

The Hek

All I have to say right now: Let's Go Oilers!

I also find it hilarious how the Argonauts are calling Ricky Williams a role model.

The Hek's Podcasts

Normally, I record through Odeo's website. This time, I uploaded an MP3 file into Odeo using my new editing software. The volume is almost perfect. The reason as why I describe it as "almost perfect" is because of the noticeable hiss that accompanies my reading of a poem; the normal result of amplifying a very quiet recording.

Experimental Podcast #7 MP3 file

Experimental Podcast RSS feed

The Hek

Nothing new to report except that I have finished reading The Da Vinci Code and I highly recommend seeing Over The Hedge.

In the meantime, here are three video clips for your amusement:

First, for all those who watch The National with Peter Mansbridge, here is what the intro looked like in 1978.

Second, the BBC wanted to interview an expert on a recent ruling between Apple and The Beatles. For some reason, instead of actually interviewing the expert, they mistakenly interviewed the expert's cab driver. Watch as the cabbie holds his own.

Finally, here is something that is so over the top, it's gold.

Enjoy

The Hek

The Hek's Podcasts

Props to Odeo for putting in a function that allows a podcaster to upload recorded MP3 files from his or her computer. Boo-erns to certain editing software that won't allow The Hek a second "thirty-day trial."

Here's the newest experimental podcast. The Hek shares his feelings on the American Idol finale and updates some sports scores. The whole thing clocks in at 2:32. Once again, the ending is caught off and the volume is low (I really need to get a real microphone).

However, what excites me about this podcast is that I'm adding a new RSS feed. This new feed will take you to a page set up by Feedburner. On this page, you are provided with a number of options to subscribe to my experimental podcasts. These options include My Yahoo, Podnova, Newsgator and........................iTunes!!!!!

Experimental Podcast #6 MP3 file

New Experimental Podcast RSS Feed

I'll hopefully be back at CHEV tomorrow reading the news from 6-9pm.

The Hek

Tonight, American Idol will crown its season five champion. Experts are predicting that the new idol will be Taylor Hicks, a 29-year-old with silver hair and lots of spunk. Normally, I would spend my Tuesday and Wednesday nights watching the show. However, I have missed many of this year's episodes. There is only one logical explanation: The Hek is officially board of American Idol. Season one was special because the show was a unique concept; season two was awesome because of the talent they had; season three was not bad; and, season four was okay but the intrigue and excitement was gone. Season five does have its moments but I feel the show has lost its uniqueness and has simply become redundant. The question now is will have I the same feelings for Canadian Idol which begins its fourth season very shortly.

The Hek's Podcasts

As you probably can tell, I have not made any new experimental podcasts. That's simply because my voice is not quite 100% just yet. In the mean time, I checked out the website Feedburner, which offers free RSS subscriber feeds for blogs and podcasts. You might have noticed the new icons that have appeared on this page. This blog now has a its own RSS feed as well as RSS feeds for anyone who uses the personalized pages provided by Yahoo, Google and AOL (My Yahoo, My Google, etc.). Every time I make a new entry, a portion of the physical text will go to the personalized page. If you decide you want to read more, you click on the link and it gives you the full entry. It's essentially a way for you to get the new content without having to always check the actual blog to see if I made a new entry. Ain't technology great?!

The Hek

It has been seven years and he is still sorely missed.
He did not want to be a wrestler.
But he chose to become one so he would not disappoint his family.
He always put the needs of others before his.
It was this unselfishness that earned him the respect from his co-workers and the love of his fans.
It was also this unselfishness that lead to his unfortunate death.

Always remembered and never forgotten.
Sleep well, King of Harts.



The Hek

Last night at the Judgment Day PPV, the WWE Tag-Team champions, MNM, lost their titles to the team of Paul London and Brian Kendrick. Following their defeat, Johnny Nitro along with Melina turned on his teammate, Joey Mecurey.

Once again, an actual WWE tag-team gets broken up after only being together for just over a year.

If I ever wrote for the WWE, one of my goals would be to rebuild the tag-team division. This once productive division has fallen by the waste side. These days, if there is a popular tag-team, the wrestlers are soon put into singles competition and quickly find out they were better as a team. Of course, the WWE never admits an error in booking and doesn't bother to correct the situation. There are so many wrestlers in the WWE that are not being used. So why not put them into a tag-team. 5-6 teams per television program is all you need. Here's what I would do:

Smackdown
- Paul London & Brian Kendrick
- MNM
- FBI (Vito and Nunzio)
- Mexicools (Super Crazy & Psychosis)
- Gymini
- Stevie Richards & Simon Dean

RAW
- Lance Cade & Trevor Murdoch
- Goldust & Snitski
- Viscera & Val Venis
- Basham Brothers
- Johnny Parisi & Rob Conway

Now the WWE is not wasting their talent. If they would just do something about the tag-teams, I'm very sure the fans would buy into it.

The Hek

The fever has gone down quite a bit. I'll be fully recuperated by tomorrow. Last night was no walk in the park. I was in bed by 8pm and didn't rise until 9am, today. I was practically in and out of consciousness the entire night. When I was awake, I at least had the fortune of listening to the Blue Jays game as well as a program at 3am that taught me how to make a "Flying J;" which, is a retro Swedish meal involving chicken, chilly sauce, rice and bacon.

I have also chosen my dream car.

The Hek

102 degrees.

That's my current body temperature.

Yes, The Hek has got a nasty fever. Started with a funny feeling in my throat on Thursday. Friday, featured lots of sneezing. I thought it was allergies but started to change my mind when my throat started to swell.

Then came Saturday when the fever made its appearance. If you're adding this at home, that's a swollen and sore throat making it tough to speak along with a fever and to top it off, teaching 5.5 hours of basketball classes.

Needless to say, The Hek is going to be out of commission for a couple of days.

In the meantime, I was listening to Big City, Small World and they featured this great artist called, Deesha. She gave this great quote and I would like to share it with you:

"A paycheck doesn't always have to equal to happiness."

The Hek

Starback has created a unique poetry style. The Hek will now try his hand at it:

Apparently, Bobby Corson doesn't eat fried green hamburgers,
instead, justified killing literally merits nonsense over prescribed qualifications,
rightfully superstitions together underlines vicious warts xfoliating yet zooming pretty well.

Clickity-clack, Booyah!

The Hek

Some important briefs:

I was cruising around You Tube and I came across this weird, disturbing, yet funny clip. It's from a show called What its like Being Alone. I did some investigating and it turns out its a television program that's going to be on the CBC. Apparently it hits the airwaves on June 21st at 9:30pm.

CHEV Radio is off for the Long Weekend so I won't be on air this Friday.

And, it turns out that I'm going to be finishing the Saturday morning basketball classes that I filled in for last week.

The Hek's Podcasts

For some reason, the recorder I use keeps cutting off the ending. I'm not sure if its the headphones or the website. There are a couple of other podcast software websites I'll be checking out very soon. In any case, this new podcast is much longer then the previous ones. The best way I can describe it is two minutes of solid improvisation. Enjoy, if you dare.

Experimental Podcast #5 MP3 file

RSS m3u xspf

The Hek

It's a very unfortunate coincidence that a female Canadian Soldier has died in combat on the same day parliament votes on whether to extend Canada's presence in Afghanistan.

I believe that the majority of opinion on this issue is similar to that of a caller on the radio who said, he was for the idea that the troops should be pulled out, while also being against it because of the positive work our military has done in Afghanistan.

The Canadian military and the rest of the coalition forces should remain in Afghanistan for as long as it takes to bring peace to the country. Until the Afghan Government is able to run on its own and the threat of the Taliban and other violent opposition is eliminated, there should be absolutely no plans to remove our soldiers. If the troops are taken out then the so-called "enemy" that our soldiers face, will have an excellent advantage to take control and Afghanistan will be right back where it started five years ago.

What needs to be understood is that a structure of a nation does not change overnight; nor does it change in a year or two. The United States is finding that out the hard way with Iraq. Bringing peace and freedom to Afghanistan has to be a long-term commitment. It takes time, it takes patience and unfortunately, it takes sacrifice.

The Canadian public is also aware that there is a strong group of afghans who do not like the sight of foreign soldiers patrolling their streets or any form of occupation. One can certainly not blame the people of Afghanistan if they choose to take this stance. Therefore, what needs to remembered is that in politics, there is never a "perfect" or "correct" solution. Every political resolution will always have its opposition and consequences. It is essentially, the lesser of many evils. Afghanistan might not like foreign occupation. However, it is better then certain alternatives.

Regardless, any decision made about the Canadian Armed Forces in Afghanistan needs to be fully evaluated and cannot be rushed.

*Normally, the journalist in me usually sits on the fence. However, there are some issues where I turn into a commentator. If you disagree with what I just wrote, that's totally cool.

The Hek

First off, major props have to go out to my friend Blake in the CP for sending me this link: American Dad vs. Family Guy Kung Fu

Yesterday, Doug Flutie announced his retirement from pro football. Following a great career in College, Flutie spent 21 productive seasons in the USFL, NFL and CFL. Now, I don't mean to be bias but it was in Canada where his talent was truly shown. In his eight CFL seasons, Flutie lead the league in many offensive categories and was part of three Grey Cup winning teams. Perhaps the most amazing statistic was that he won the CFL's Most Outstanding Player Award, six times.
Many people feel Flutie is the best Quarterback ever to play in the CFL. I would certainly agree. I had the great fortune of watching Flutie when he played for the Toronto Argonauts. I was at the Rogers Centre in 1996 when the Argos beat Montreal to advance to the Grey Cup finals. Not only did Flutie have a great command of this particular game but, he also kicked a field goal to show he could score without even having to throw the ball. He captained a group of players that could be considered as one of the best teams ever assembled. If I were ever asked to form a list of the best sports teams, the 1996-97 Argonauts would definitely be near the top.

Another great thing about Flutie was that he did all this despite being only 5'9 which is considered to be very small in professional football. When he left Toronto to play for the Buffalo Bills, people were literally writing his obituary. "He's too small; he'll get eaten alive in the NFL." Flutie proved them all wrong, putting up some decent numbers with the Bills, Chargers and Patriots.

He might not get a spot in Canton, Ohio; but Doug Flutie will no doubt be inducted one day into the CFL Hall of Fame.



The Hek

Today, I tried a couple of things for the podcasts. First, I wanted to see if any other sound files would be recorded along with my voice. I used an instrumental song and played it off the sound recorder on my computer. Unfortunately, it barley got picked up by the podcast software. I'm going to be tinkering with this over the next few weeks to see what I can get. Second, I clicked on a button that would reduce echoing. Fortunately, this allowed me to record at a perfect volume. Unfortunately, when I played back what I recorded, there was a very noticeable and annoying hiss.

Along with the RSS link, I'm also adding an "m3u" and "xspf" link. They do the same thing as RSS and iTunes. I'm not sure about xspf but, I can tell you that m3u takes you to your Windows Media Player and puts on every Podcast I have made so far.

Podcast Subscribe Links: RSS m3u xspf

Experimental Podcast #4 - MP3 file

The Hek

It pains me to do this...








Choke

Definition:

1. To interfere with the respiration of by compression or obstruction of the larynx or trachea.
2. 1. To check or slow down the movement, growth, or action of: a garden that was choked by weeds.
   2. To block up or obstruct by filling or clogging: Mud choked the drainpipe.
   3. To fill up completely; jam: Major commuter arteries were choked with stalled traffic.
3. To reduce the air intake of (a carburetor), thereby enriching the fuel mixture.
4. Sports. To grip (a bat or racket, for example) at a point nearer the hitting surface.
5. The Ottawa Senators' 2005-06 season.
   

The Hek

Well today my voice is a bit shot thanks to 5.5 hours straight of teaching children how to play basketball and other fun games. Big space + 20 talkative kids (x four classes ranging from 60-90 minutes each) = one shot voice. Sometimes I question myself why I still teach children's programs and camps. I think its because of the money and this small fleeting hope that I am actually making a somewhat small impact on their lives.

Also, this weekend is quite significant for three reasons. First (and this is in no particular order), today is Abigail's birthday. Second, tomorrow will mark the first year anniversary of Noel and Leslie's wedding. I for one cannot believe it has already been a year; time certainly flies by. And third, it's Mother's Day; the Mother of all holidays.

Now on to: The Hek's Podcasts.

I tinkered with the sound recorder on my computer and was able to increase the recording volume on the makeshift microphone (aka my headphones). So the volume on this next experimental podcast is slightly better. However, the sound is the still the same.

I'm also adding the RSS link. Now for those that don't know, RSS acts as a free subscription service. When you click on it - or cut and paste it into your MP3 content provider/media player - what will happen is that every time I make a new podcast, it will automatically download to the content provider. You then have the option of downloading the program onto to your iPod or any other portable MP3 player. Now this RSS link should work with any content provider (like Juice, Doppler, or Transistr), except for iTunes as I have a feeling I would have to contact the company and pay a small monetary sum in order to be listed on their service. Of course, that's what I think is suppose to happen. For a better explanation, click here

Experimental Podcast RSS Link

Experimental Podcast #3

The Hek

Let's start with the quote of the day. This was said by a young boy who was in a science class The Hek was helping to teach at the Thornhill Community Centre. The kid looked at me straight in the eye and with great astonishment, exclaimed:

"Hey! You're not Jamaican!"

I kid you not.

I'll be heading back to CHEV Radio tomorrow to help with the 6-9pm show. As far as I know, I'll be doing the news and sports report again. If you're on the web, you can catch me at the top and bottom of the hour starting at 6:30. The show is called Between The Lines and offers lots of insightful sports talk. Tune in: 6-9pm on CHEV RADIO.COM.

The Hek

Alright...

You might notice at the bottom of this page is a media player. It's from the website where I put together the experimental podcasts. I thought it was going to be a caption with a number of links to hear the podcast I just made. However, it turns out to be just a media player that simply plays what I just made.

I'm fully capable of producing an MP3 podcast. What I am trying to figure out is how to upload the file to a website and then, have it in a way where you can either listen to it just as an MP3 file or download it to your iPod (which means an RSS/XML link). The website I'm currently using takes care of those two step. The only draw back is that you can only use their recorder which has no editing techniques (unlike Adobe Audition/Cool Edit Pro) and, there does not seem to be a function where you can upload from your hard drive to the website.

In any case, thanks to those who listened to the first experiment. I must repete that I'm using a set of headphones for a microphone which explains why everything sounds nasally and quiet. To show how bad it is, even when I turn the recording volume up, it still sounds quiet. Once I get a proper computer microphone, it should should normal.

And now: Experimental Podcast #2

Be sure to have the volume up.

The Hek

The Future of Radio: Podcasting

One of my goals for the summer was to figure out how to podcast. I'll be using this site to conduct experiments. This should hopefully lead me down the right path where I am constantly putting together a well sounded podcast that you can listen to on your compy or, download to iTunes. With that, let's begin our first experiment.

Now, I do not have the proper microphone so, I used my headphones. This a 26 second clip of The Hek reading a poem. The volume is really, really crappy; might have to turn your speakers up. If this works, please let me know in the comments. It would be much appreciated.

Experimental Podcast #1

Thank you very much.

The Hek

On Saturday, The Hek, Mr. Wood and Steven watched this great film from Hong Kong called, Infernal Affairs. It tells the story of two men. One is a member of the local Mafia who has been planted as a mole in the police force; and the other, is a cop who has been planted as a mole in the local Mafia. Their bosses, the police chief and the Mafia boss, have both found out that their group has a mole in it and assign both men to find out who the mole is. This of course leads to many twists and turns as both men are forced to do some internal soul searching to figure out which side they really want to be on. It's an action paced and well thought out plot and thus, receives The Hek Seal of approval.

Now, The Hek realizes not all of you can get access to Hong Kong cinema. So, you'll be happy to know that Martin Scorsese is making a Hollywood version of the film. It will be called The Departed and will have Matt Damon and Leo Decaprio star as the two men. The film also has Martin Sheen and Jack Nicholson playing the police chief and Mafia boss, respectively; and, Mark Whalberg will be in it as well. On an interesting note, the film will take place in Boston which is rather odd since Scorsese usually uses New York as his backdrop.

In other news, I spotted Mario Lopez playing a doctor on The Bold and The Beautiful. He certainly knew his stuff. I guess I missed Saved By The Bell: The Med-school years.

The Hek

The CBC has announced that they are canceling ZED.

Zed was a creative arts television show that had been airing in the 11:25pm - 12:25am time slot, on and off for the last five years. The program featured documentaries, short films and a solid amount of independent music. It's most unique feature was its website where people could watch clips and upload their own material which had a chance to be shown on television. The website was a hub of creative output. Numerous hosts of the show included Kardinal Offishall and Janet Chow.

Zed was also the program I had been freelancing for this past March.

This is what frustrates me about the CBC. Sometimes there is a program (such as Zed or the recently cancelled National Playlist) that may not be the most popular show, but develops a strong cult following. Although the CBC's mission is to serve cultural interests and goals, sometimes it takes on the goals of a commercial broadcaster which is to have the highest ratings and the most advertising revenue. This means that shows like Zed or the National Playlist are likely to be cancelled. Don't get me wrong, I love the CBC and I'm all for public broadcasting. But like most organizations, not every decision made is viewed as a "smart decision."

Tod Maffin also brings up a good point: most of the people who are currently working at the CBC are baby boomers and will soon be retiring. Eventually, the CBC will have to bring in a lot of "young" blood. In order for this to occur, there needs to be content that attracts young journalists, broadcasters and artists. Zed was a great way to do this. Unfortunately this will no longer be the case.

However, for what it is worth, Zed can be put to rest knowing that it probably lasted longer then most people would have predicted.

The Hek

That went well....

You might recall that I found out about a radio station in Markham/Thornhill called CHEV Radio. I checked it out on Wednesday. Turns out the station is broadcasted only on the internet and does lots of sports coverage. I spoke with the station manager and gave her my resume and demo tape. She then asked me to come in on Friday night and work with the 6-9pm show.

When I got there on Friday, the hosts asked me to put together a five minute news and sports update which was to be read on-air every 30 minutes. So, I got to be a news reader and did this five times throughout the show. It was a lot of fun; especially with the sports scores which were always changing. Along with being on-air, I think my favourite part was getting to add and take out parts of the actual update. Sometimes new information on a story becomes available or the score in a game keeps changing (this was certainly the case with Sens/Sabers match). Basically, no two updates were alike.

In any case, the hosts were happy with my work and I was feeling content about it as well. Like I said, it was a lot of fun. I'm not sure what will happen next with CHEV but I'll let you all know if anything comes up. It's a really cool station and keeps getting bigger everyday.

The Hek

I've been reading The Da Vinci Code for the last week. I would say that it is pretty good. The story is flowing quite well and the topics in question are well researched. A lot of people say that Dan Brown's writing style is not that great. However, I disagree with this opinion. Brown's writes in a way that puts himself on an equal level with the reader. This also goes well with the book's early theme of male/female balance.

Anyway, in tribute to one of the main tools that are used to "crack the secrets and codes," The Hek gives you this:

Shake dear hated thug

Spurtive phallicism saboteurs

Good luck, Hekamanicas.

The Hek

Despite working and getting a fitness assessment, I spent most of the day eating crow.




I know what you are all thinking: "The Hek, what does crow taste like?"

Straight up, crow tastes like ass. Pure, bitter, ass.

My buddy Andrew (aka Shooey) who is a big Hurricanes fan, is entitled to stuff my face with more crow. He's already started (see the comments for Monday's post). Any non-Canadiens fans are welcome to do the same. I'm hoping it will be quick and painless.

The Hek

Your lesson for the day: Never walk long distances in black business/formal shoes.

Meanwhile, midway through the second period, it's tied 1-1. I'm listening to the game off CJAD's website.

Yesterday, the car my family drives, died. Of course it doesn't die in a parking lot or a driveway; it dies in the middle of Bayview Ave. during rush hour. This is the third time this has happened. The car's first death occurred in August, 2000. Simple case of a dead battery. The second death was in June, 2004; just as I was beginning my G2 exit test. Same story, dead battery.

Clearly this third death is by far the worst one. It appears that it is more then just a dead battery. The Hek will follow this story as it happens. In the meantime, it might be time for The Hek's family to purchases one of those phones that operate on a cellular network.

The Hek has also discovered there is a community radio station right here in Thornhill/Markham!

And finally, here is another example why The Hek misses Paul Heyman, Joey Styles and ECW.

The Hek

So last night, the Hurricanes took a 3-2 series lead over the Canadiens.

Now I know what all you Hekamaniacs are thinking:

"Give it up, The Hek. Carolina is just a much stronger team. Montreal had a good run but the season is finished for them."

Well guess what...

YOU'RE WRONG!

Sure the Habs have their backs against the wall and sure, Carolina has had their number this year; but let me tell you something: It still ain't over. One of the reasons why Montreal is even in the playoffs is because they always overcome adversity. There were many games where they were down by a goal or two. And yet, the Habs still came back and won a majority of those games.

Here's how it will go down. Carolina is going to be pumped up and will probably get the first goal. Then, they're going to put it in cruise control thinking that they have game six all wrapped up. Then, BAM!!! Montreal scores three goals so quickly that Cam Ward's head is spinning. The Canadiens win game six forcing a winner-take-all seventh game which, they will win hands down.
It can happen. You just watch.

The Hek

Something is boggling The Hek's mind and it has to do with MSN. Could someone explain the difference between being "away" and being offline?

The Hek sees no difference at all.

Last night, I was online and for most of the night, almost all of my contacts who were online at the time were listed as "away." And I'm not talking about a few people; there was at least 20-30 people who did this. I don't get that. If you're not going to be at your computer and/or talking on MSN, why would you bother to sign in?

What does the "away" status tell us anyway? I don't have time to be at the computer but I'll still sign in so you know I'm there; even though you can't talk to me? If I choose not to be on MSN, I just don't sign in. In fact, I've rarely used the "away" status.

Busy, On The Phone, BRB; that makes sense. The "away" status when you think about it, is a complete contradiction.

In other news: The Hek has received yet another injunction. This time in regards to IGL.

And finally: Need a problem solved? Ask a ninja!

The Hek

For the first time from the suburban wasteland, it's time for The Hek's Super Playlist. New Entries are in red.

1. Kennedy Killed the Hat - Buck 65
2. I bought some books - Black Boot Trio
3. Watching the Wheels - John Lennon
4. Vacation - The Go-Go's
5. Like a Prayer - Madonna
6. Night Swimming - REM
7. Chicago - Sufjan Stevens
8. Ring, Ring - Abba
9. Call on Me - Eric Prydz
10. November Rain - Guns N Roses
11. Cruel Summer - Bannanarama
12. Hung up - Madonna
13. 463 - Buck 65
14. Judy is a Punk - The Ramones
15. The Laws have Changed - The New Pornographers
16. Portland, Oregon - Loretta Lynn feat. Jack White
17. Suzanne - Leonard Cohen
18. The Card Cheat - The Clash
19. Canadian Railroad Trilogy - Gordon Lightfoot
20. Boys in the Bright White Sports Car - Trooper
21. Mandy - Barry Manilow
22. Let's Get Together - Al Green

The Hek

P.S. Find Robert Langdon

6:45 left in the third period. Game Four. Hurricanes are beating the Canadiens 3-2. This ain't over.

In the meantime, here is some Heku; that's haiku poetry in The Hek's world famous style.

Ignoring the law
Toyota takes the right of way
avoiding a near collision

The Hek

Just when I thought the Habs might pull it off and beat the second best team in the Eastern Conference, Game 3 occurs. Not only does Montreal lose the game but Saku Koivu almost lost an eye. Now, Saku is out indefinitely. Not cool. But being the loyal Habs fan that I am, I still believe. The Hek is no Madame Cleo but, I can see the future. Montreal takes games four and five and moves on to the second round. They're led by Michael Ryder and Christobal Huet (aka, the Second Coming, part 3) with outstanding performances.

Disclaimer: Don't put your money down based on The Hek's predictions; they're sometimes wrong. Remember my World Series playoff predictions. I'm still sore from that.

I just sent an e-mail with my new address to everyone on my contact list. Lot of you guys have Hotmail which means that the e-mail may have gone the Junk mail section. Just so you know.

RIP Pat Marsden

The Hek

SYMPATICO'D!!!!

We're on the air. Live from Thornhill.

The Hek

Today is the beginning of "Turn-off TV" week. The Hek will be honoring this by watching TV.

Tonight is Game two of the Canadiens/Hurricanes series; 7pm on CBC. Then, at 11pm on Omni 1, it's the Bernie Mac Show which is one of the most hilarious shows I have seen. And who could not forget the Jerry Springer Show; midnight on Sun TV.

Come on, people. What idiot schedules a "no TV week" during the Stanley Cup Playoffs?

In other news, Josh from McGill Improv was in Toronto this past week. It was great to talk to him. Check out his world: Budman's Blog. (That might be the wrong link, though. Apologies if it is)

The Hek

Hey! These aren't my pants!

The Hek

Some reflections.

In August, 2002, I was a scrawny, 19-year-old kid who lived in a very sheltered world; the metropolis of Thornhill. I was a camp supervisor and I was longing for companionship.

Coming to Carleton was a big step for me. In the last four years, I learnt what independence really means. I learnt what it was like to do my own shopping, do my own laundry and make decisions without any outside influences. I discovered just how beautiful the nation's capital is. I also figured out what I want to do with my life. I even had some companionship here and there. There have been so many wonderful memories. I feel I have really grown up in the last four years and it all started that faithful August day in 2002 when I made the big step. What I mean by this is that when a chapter of your life ends, you begin the next chapter by taking the big step in a world that was completely different and has much more attributes then the one you recently left.

Pre-school to elementary school was a big step; elementary to high school was a big step; and, high school to university was a big step. So naturally, I should be making another big step from Carleton to the real world where I can finally start to make something of myself.

However, I'm returning as a not-so-scrawny -anymore, 23-year-old adult, to the same sheltered world. I'm still working as a camp supervisor. I'm currently still looking for a little companionship.

Instead of making a big step, I have gone in a full-circle.

I blew it.

The Hek

Now this is what I call a good day.

It started with my final Thursday Blend and it was a blast. Noel and I haven't missed a beat and there was tons of funny stuff; for example:

Hek: Al Green is celebrating his birthday, today. And here's a little something from the birthday boy himself.

Noel: Ah, yes. Here comes some baby-making music. Oh yeah!

After some breakfast and a brief pit-stop at my room, I went back to CKCU to burn all my archived stuff to CD. I finished with two stellar CDs as well as a couple of copies for those who took part in election debate I produced and moderated in January. I got the office a little present; a nice big canister of Tim Horton's coffee mix. Not only did they like the gift but they also had one for me: a pair of really nice micro-headphones plus accessories. After a few hours, I said my good-byes and left. As I walked back home, I felt an immense sadness. I'm really going to miss CKCU. I think it was the only location where I never felt like I was out of place. Hopefully I will be able to return to it many times.

However, the sadness went away when I checked my mail to find another cheque from the CBC. They took all my remaining invoices and lumped it all into one nice cheque. This officially completes my current freelance work.

I decided to celebrate by heading to the book store. I have some money on my campus card and I have to use it up or else it will be lost forever. I bought a 1.5 inch binder, a Carleton U t-shirt, and Dan Brown's The Davinci Code. It will be interesting to see if the hype surrounding it is legit or exaggerated.

Finally, I just checked my mark and found that I have finished my Media, Wars and Conflicts class with an A.

Booyah,

The Hek

Tune into the next Thursday Morning Special Blend.

This week, I'll be joined by a special guest co-host; former Special Blend host Noel Waghorn.

It's also a special show because it's my last Thursday Blend.........for now. I have recently finished my University studies and will be moving back to my home in Toronto. I'm not sure what the future entails. This could be the last time I'm live on CKCU's airwaves! If it is, I would like to thank all those who have listened. It was an honour to do this show, and I will miss it very much. Thank you, CKCU, and THANK YOU CKCU LISTENERS!

The Thursday Blend will feature:

- Ottawa Sports Recap
- Volunteer Ottawa Placement of the Week
- Poem of the Day
- On this day in History
- The CKCU Entertainment listings and the Byetown Cinema listings
- Weather Updates and lots of great music
- At 8:00, stay tuned for "Hour Two" with Dave Yazbeck; following the BBC World Service News

Got a song request, sports team you'd like to see covered, poem, something really cool. Send me an e-mail to thursday_blend@yahoo.ca

Catch the Thurs. Blend: 7-9:30am EST on CKCU 93.1 FM

The Hek

What I need to get:

1. MD Player
2. A (free) copy of Adobe Audition/Cool Edit Pro that won't expire in 30 days.
3. Internet service that is not part of any "bundle."
4. A microphone
5. Instructions on how to set up podcasts
6. CD burner
7. A wife, a dog and a white picket fence

Wake up to the Thursday Morning Special Blend! 7-8am EST on CKCU 93.1 FM

The Hek

The following post shall be entitled: Improv and Propaganda.

At exactly 1:39pm EST, The Hek handed in his last ever assignment and in the process completed his University career. Now, I wait for the marks and graduation in June. Meanwhile, to put it simply:

I AM DONE!!!

And it feels good too. Now for those who were wondering, my assignment was about the mass media's coverage of wars and conflicts. In order to prove my thesis (which was basically that the media throws objectivity out the window during War-time coverage), I needed some help from Noam Chomsky. I used two articles that he wrote as sources; 1988's Manufacturing Consent and, a 1992 article entitled "The Media and War. What War?"

To clarify, here are The Hek's thoughts on Noam Chomsky:

He's extreme and sometimes goes way off the deep end. I mean some of the stuff is really out in leftfield. Think about it. He called the 1991 Gulf War a terrorist attack by the United States. Now to me, both sides had casualties and fought each other; that sounds like a war to me and let's face it, shit happens. He's a bit outrageous with his claims. NOT THAT THERE IS ANYTHING WRONG WITH THAT. Chomsky's theories are debatable but he has built quite the following and has been quite successful and that, I think is pretty darn good. The only thing I hate is that for the last four years, I have had to interpret theories like his and by the time the last paper comes around, you're pretty much sick and tired of him. At least I can take solace that I don't have to worry about him anymore.

Now on to other things....

On Saturday, the folks and I that make up the Carleton Improv Association, put on our last show of the school year and it was fantastic! We packed Mike's Place and everyone had a great time. This was also a special show for me because it was my last show with the CIA. Before it started, I was a bit nervous that I would not have a good performance and that's how people would remember me. However, I am happy to report that the audience was laughing with me and not at me, most of the time.

This year for the CIA was extremely important. After the disasters we faced last year (i.e.: only six members, 12 audience members and getting screwed around by Carleton's Housing office), Noel and I wanted to make sure that the team was in excellent condition when it came time to take our leave (Noel was also great on Saturday as was the rest of the team). We had four goals: Bring in new members; Do more shows; Get back to Montreal; and, try to see if we had what it took to do shows at Mike's Place. Without a shadow of a doubt, I am happy to say we were successful on all four parts. Our rookies were some of the most talented people we have ever had on the team and it was also great to see veterans like Dave, Will and Owen stick with us. This year we did more shows then ever before including two great shows at Mike's Place. We also set up a great relationship with the wonderful people on the McGill Improv team. It is my hope that this relationship continues in the future.

I'm really going to miss the CIA. This may sound pathetic, but it was really the highlight of my weekend. There are so memories that have occurred over the last four years and I will always remember the respect and kindness of my teammates. It was through the CIA that I got to meet Noel who, was instrumental in getting me on the air at CKCU. I could write every single favorite moment but I would be here for awhile.

Instead I'd like to share a quote from Saturday's show. If any CIA members are reading this, feel free to add your favorite moments and quotes to the comment section.

During a game of "Life is Like." Suggestion: McDonald's

Will: Life is like McDonalds. It's where you lose your virginity in the bathroom at age fourteen.
The Hek: Life is like McDonald's. You go to the bathroom and there's some fourteen-year-old losing his virginity.

The Hek

In the middle of page six of the last paper you have to write, it hits you: I really, really, really hate Noam Chomsky.

The Hek

Get ready for some hilarious fun!

The Carleton Improv Association (CIA) is performing another exciting and hysterical show.

It's also our last show for the 2005-06 season!

Come see the CIA Saturday April 8, 2006
7:30pm
Mike's Place - 2nd Floor University Centre at Carleton University

FREE ADMISSION

Come watch the CIA perform games in the style of Whose Line is it Anyway?

It is an interactive show so come ready to shout out suggestions!

We hope to see you at the show

The Hek

Writing a paper I just don't give a rat's ass about.

The Hek

Catch the next Thursday Morning Special Blend!

The Thursday Blend will feature:

- Ottawa Sports Recap
- Volunteer Ottawa Placement of the Week
- Poem of the Day
- On this day in History
- The CKCU Entertainment listings and the Byetown Cinema listings
- Weather Updates and lots of great music
- At 8:00, stay tuned for "Hour Two" with Dave Yazbeck; following the BBC World Service News

Got a song request, sports team you'd like to see covered, poem, something really cool. Send me an e-mail to thursday_blend@yahoo.ca

Catch the Thurs. Blend: 7-9:30am EST on CKCU 93.1 FM

Today is the start of the baseball season. The Hek is very confident about the Blue Jays this year. Baseball is my favorite sport. To me, it's not just a spot but also an art from and a science.

Today, I also had the very last class of my University career.

Be sure to catch the Thurs. Blend! 7-8am EST on CKCU 93.1 FM

The Hek

The Hek is pleased that his Wrestlemania predictions were all right on the money. Except for JBL vs. Benoit.

In other news, the Carleton residence cafeteria forgot how to cook food this evening. The chicken burgers were rubber, the potato pancake was gooey, and the rice was plastic. I may die tonight of food poisoning. If I do pass away, I want you to......know....that I...........YARRGGGHHH.

*falls to floor*

The Hek

Like a bird, on a wire

You are happy
I hate that

Tonight is the biggest show of them all: Wrestlemania 22

Here now are The Hek's predictions:

Mickie James will beat Trish Stratus for the Women's title
JBL vs. Chris Benoit for the US title will end in a DQ
Carlito and Chris Masters will beat Kane and The Big Show for the RAW tag-titles
John Cena will beat HHH to retain the WWE Heavyweight title
Rey Mysterio will beat Kurt Angle and Randy Orton for the World Heavyweight title
Rob Van Dam will win "Money in The Bank"
Undertaker will beat Mark Henry
Bogeyman will beat Booker T and Sharmell
Edge will beat Mick Foley
Torrie Wilson will beat Candice Michelle
Shawn Micheals will beat Vince McMahon

Best match of the show: Mysterio vs. Angle vs. Orton
Worst match of the show: Wilson vs. Michelle

The Hek

Good old Saturday night. Staying at home writing papers. At least, there's THE HEK'S SUPER PLAYLIST. As always, new entries are in red.

1. Kennedy Killed the Hat - Buck 65
2. I read some books - Black Boot Trio
3. Watching the Wheels - John Lennon
4. Vacation - The Go-Go's
5. Like a Prayer - Madonna
6. Night Swimming - REM
7. Chicago - Sufjan Stevens
8. Ring, Ring - Abba
9. Call on Me - Eric Prydz
10. November Rain - Guns N Roses
11. Cruel Summer - Bannanarama
12. Hung up - Madonna
13. 463 - Buck 65
14. Judy is a Punk - The Ramones
15. The Laws have Changed - The New Pornographers
16. Portland, Oregon - Loretta Lynn feat. Jack White
17. Suzanne - Leonard Cohen

The Hek

Ohhhhh, tough break.

At the beginning of this month, I found out that the sponsorship and marketing coordinator at CKCU was taking a leave of absence for a year. Upon hearing this, my initial thought was: "I could hold a job like that." I had the skills that were needed and the current coordinator graduated from Carleton with the exact same degree that I will receive this June. Best of all, getting this job would mean I could stay in Ottawa, still work at CKCU (and get paid for it), continue my work on the broadcasting side and a job such as this would look great on a resume.

A couple of days later I was at CKCU when the station manager wanted to speak with me. He explained the situation. Basically, he was going to ask a member on CKCU's board of directors if he would take on the job. If the board member said yes, end of story. However, if the board member declined, then an open call for applicants would take place. It was at this point when my station manager looked me in the eye and said: "If we do an open call, I strongly suggest you apply."

Now for sure, I was going to do it. I also had the backing of many people. I even started to think of some ideas I could do to advertise the station and strengthen our funding drive.

Unfortunately, I found out a few days ago that the board member accepted the position.

Of course I am not bitter. I don't mind at all. The job would have been a lot of work and since part of it deals with the finances of the station, there would have been a huge amount of pressure to maintain the station's current financial situation which is in good standing.

What does suck is that this was probably my last kick of the can to try and stay in Ottawa after I finish school. I did however, apply to work as a communications consultant for the Canadian Aids Society. The only problem with that was the fact that I found out about it the day after the deadline for applicants had passed. I would be extremely surprised if they even looked at my application let alone consider it.

The Hek

BOOYAH!!!!

The Hek is pleased to announce that for the first time, he has been paid by the CBC. That's right, the first cheque came today. A nice substantial and well earned amount for a darn fine job. I believe it was Mick Foley who said, "The nicest way of saying 'thank you,' is with a cheque." Hopefully, this will be the first of many cheques to come from working with the CBC.

The Hek

Catch the next Thursday Morning Special Blend!

In the first hour (7-8), I'll be airing my interview with Mary-Martha Hale, co-chair of the Alliance to End Homelessness to discuss the Alliance's second report card on homelessness in Ottawa.

In the second hour (8-9), I'll be speaking with Ottawa 67s Owner Jeff Hunt about the Hockey Country Auction in support of former 67s player Sebastian Savage who was paralysed in a game last year.

In the last half hour (9-9:30), I'll be joined by Andrea Lagalisse to talk about the WaterCan fund-raising event taking place on April 1st.

The Thursday Blend will also feature:

- Ottawa Sports Recap
- Volunteer Ottawa Placement of the Week
- Poem of the Day
- On this day in History
- The CKCU Entertainment, Arts and Community listings and the Byetown Cinema listings
- Charlatan News Report
- Ottawa Metro News

Got a song request, sports team you'd like to see covered, poem, something really cool. Send me an e-mail to thursday_blend@yahoo.ca

Catch the Thurs. Blend: 7-9:30am EST on CKCU 93.1 FM

boobs



THURSDAY BLEND!!!!! 7-9:30am EST on CKCU 93.1 FM

The Hek

I don't know what it is. But for some reason, whenever the weekend comes, I feel sad. It's like this weird sense of depression and loneliness. I don't usually have these things happen to me; but Saturday night for some reason leaves me in such a depressed state. I try to block it out with many things but I still feel it when I head to bed. I wake up Sunday and I mope. I've never liked the feel that goes with Sunday. Everything is toned down, quiet, laid-back. The world just seems to stop.

I can't really pinpoint it on anything. It could be the homework; could be the crisis.

Anyway, my two presentations went well. I love presentations. It's sort of like a performance when you think about. But that's just the high school drama student in me. Props to Mr. Wood and Owen for the good luck.

The Hek

I just got back from hosting the ZED film night. Pretty good turn out, actually. I was a bit worried being that it was a Sunday night when most students stay at home to finish those papers that are due the next day at 10am.

Speaking of which I have one and possibly two presentations tomorrow.

Good day.

The Hek

CBC - Zed film night @ Carleton - Sunday, March 26th, 8pm!

	Come on out and join friends and fellow students for Zed Film Night at... Carleton University Sunday, March 26th, 8pm Commons Grille Residence Commons Building Come out and watch some of the best documentaries and short films Zed has to offer! Free Admission!

The Hek

Continuing my rage for the fact that The Simpsons is still on the air, it appears that this week's opening sequence will feature the characters in live action. Meaning that it will be humans, not animated cartoons, that rush home from work, school and the supermarket. A few weeks ago, my buddy Blake sent this link to me. Now The Hek's not sure if this is the actual live action sequence. However, in the spirit of showing my disgust for FOX renewing The Simpsons and not Arrested Development: Here it is.

The Hek

Now this is a kick in the crotch.

You've probably had this happen to you. You're working on a paper or a project that involves the use of a computer. Suddenly, something happens and all the hard work you put together is gone. Despite your best efforts you can't bring it back. It recently happened to Owen and I know for a fact that it has happened to Mr. Wood and Mark.

Well, it happened to me.

On Wednesday, I made my way to CKCU to do an interview. This was not just any other interview. The Hek had managed to schedule an interview with WWE superstar Rob Van Dam. As I prepared, someone mentioned that the computer I was to record the interview on was acting up. I tested it out and everything seemed to be fine.

So I had my first interview with a wrestler. It was something that I had always wanted to do. RVD and I talked about Wrestlemania and his time in ECW. It was awesome! Here I was speaking to someone who I watch on television. Here was someone who helped define ECW and the hardcore style.

As I neared the end of the interview, I noticed that the computer had stopped recording; in fact, it froze. I finished the interview and immediately went to get help. The Production manager came in told me to reboot. Apparently, there was a chance that the Auto Recovery would kick in. It didn't. We tried a number of different things but each attempt failed. The interview was gone.

Words cannot describe how I felt. I was depressed for the rest of the day.

And it's not like I can just call up WWE and say "The computer screwed up, may I have another interview." WWE is very protective of their starts especially when it comes to speaking with the media. It's not like they need any extra promotion either.

What hurts the most was that it was a great interview and at the end one of the best wrestlers of this era said, "Thank you, Eric." He called me by my first name.

It's now just a memory in my head and I can't share it with the rest of you.

The Hek

Catch the next Thursday Morning Special Blend!

The Thursday Blend will feature:

- Ottawa Sports Recap
- Volunteer Ottawa Placement of the Week
- Poem of the Day
- On this day in History
- The CKCU Entertainment listings and the Byetown Cinema listings
- CUSA Referendum Results (and possibly, an interview with someone from CUSA)
- At 8:00, stay tuned for "Hour Two" with Dave Yazbeck; following the BBC World Service News

Got a song request, sports team you'd like to see covered, poem, something really cool. Send me an e-mail to thursday_blend@yahoo.ca

Catch the Thurs. Blend: 7-9:30am EST on CKCU 93.1 FM

A true and interesting fact: In 1986, Leonard Cohen made a cameo appearance in Miami Vice. He played the head of Interpol.

Catch the Thursday Morning Special Blend! 7-8am EST on CKCU 93.1 FM

The Hek

First off, The Hek would like to wish Mr. Wood a very HAPPY and HEALTHY BIRTHDAY!

Also, one of my assignments was pushed back to April 10. So my University life will be extended by three days but at least my workload gets a little easier.

Finally, the people at ZED have put up pictures of all the pub nights and film nights. You can check out the pics from the Carleton pub night that The Hek ran. Click here to check them out.

The Hek

My buddy Andrew was in town visiting his fellow 4th Lanark floormates. Andrew graduated from Carleton last year and is currently working on another degree at Western. He gave me a call on Friday to ask if I'd like to go to the Sens game on Saturday night. He got two free tickets and was looking for someone with the same passion for hockey that he has. Of course, I told him I would be delighted.

Now there's a number of difference between going to an NHL game in Ottawa and going to an NHL game in Toronto. The Hek will now elaborate:

Location: The Air Canada Centre is located in the heart of downtown Toronto. Scotiabank Place is located in Kanata which is west of the City of Ottawa. To be more blunt, the Sens' arena is literally located in the middle of nowhere. It's a 20,000 seat entertainment facility that is surrounded by highways and farmlands. Tor: 1; Ott: 0

Traveling: There are two ways to get to the Air Canada Centre. You can drive and park in the many nearby parking stations; or, you can take either the GO Train or TTC to Union Station. Since the ACC is connected to Union Station, you don't have to go outside. To get to Scotiabank Place, you need to take a "400 Series" bus. These busses leave at specific times from their respected stations. You miss it, you're out of luck. When coming home, most busses will make their last departure at around 9:30pm, regardless if the game has finished or not. You miss it, you've got a $40 cab ride back to Ottawa. Tor: 2; Ott: 0

Team: The Ottawa Senators are one of the top teams in the NHL. They have one of most dangerous forward lines (Alfredson, Spezza, Heatley) in the history of hockey. Many experts have picked the Sens to win the Stanley Cup this year. The Toronto Maple Leafs are in 11th place in the Eastern Conference and likely going to miss the playoffs. The Leafs suck.
Tor: 2; Ott: 1

Game Program: If you wish to have a game program at a Maple Leafs game, you must pay $5. A game program at the Sens game is FREE. Tor: 2; Ott: 2

Type of game: Those who attend a Leafs game are more likely to see the home team lose. Those who attend a Sens game are more likely to the home team win. OTT: 3; Tor: 2

Now on to the game recap. The Ottawa Senators beat the Buffalo Sabers by a score of 4-2. This game was touted to be a great one as the second place Sabers were just a point behind the first place Sens. The game was good; but not great. The Sabers were very stale for the first two periods. The Sens took advantage of this by outshooting the Sabers 22-5 in the first period and having a 3-0 lead midway through the second. In the third, the Sabers finally started to look like the team that had previously won its last 8 games. The Sens were also getting a little sluggish but managed to hold on for the victory. They sealed the deal with Sens forward Chris Kelly netting an empty netter with 11 seconds to go in the game. To be fair, Buffalo could not buy a break. Any good chance they got resulted them in missing the net or hitting the side of it. Sure, Sens goalie Ray Emery made some good stops but the Sabers' lack of aim and failure to take advantage of defensive miscues was the real reason why they only scored twice. The only player on Buffalo that earned his pay was goalie Ryan Miller who impressively, stopped 45 shots. Miller received the first star of the game. Second star went to the Sens' Zedeno Chara who scored his 13 goal and the third star went to Ottawa's Brian Smolenski who notched a goal and an assist.

All in all it was a fantastic night. It was also great to see Andrew again. And just for the record, Andrew loves the Carolina Hurricanes and The Hek loves the Montreal Canadiens.

The Hek

Rather then comment on how I don't really understand the concept of St.Patty's day, it's time for some new additions to THE HEK'S SUPER PLAYLIST. New entries are of course, in red. The Hek is posting links to watch the music videos if they exist. Enjoy

1. Kennedy Killed the Hat - Buck 65
2. I read some books - Black Boot Trio
3. Watching the Wheels - John Lennon
4. Vacation - The Go-Go's
5. Like a Prayer - Madonna
6. Night Swimming - REM
7. Chicago - Sufjan Stevens
8. Ring, Ring - Abba
9. Call on Me - Eric Prydz
10. November Rain - Guns N Roses
11. Cruel Summer - Bananarama
12. Hung up - Madonna
13. 463 - Buck 65

The Hek

Today I want to share some quality poetry. Both of these poems come from two legends; Louis Dudek and Leonard Cohen. Not many people realize the amazing things that occurred in Montreal during the 40's, 50's and 60's. Montreal was the birth of the modernist movement and home to many great poets. The Hek wonders if all the ACWC literary lovers know about this.

A Dead Language

By: Louis Dudek

Art is the Language of God
that man was just trying to learn

There have been a few fluent speakers
in the past

but they are now incomprehensible
to the people

We still like the sound of the words

This next poem was written for a girl named Anne. However, I believe you can switch Anne's name with the name of any female from your past; Lita, Esmerelda, Margaret, Mary-Ellis.

For Anne

By Leonard Cohen

With Annie gone,
Whose eyes to compare
With the morning sun
Not that I did compare
But I do compare
Now that she's is gone

The Hek

Catch the next Thursday Morning Special Blend!

The Thursday Blend will feature:

- Ottawa Sports Recap
- Volunteer Ottawa Placement of the Week
- Poem of the Day
- On this day in History
- The CKCU Entertainment listings and the Byetown Cinema listings
- At 8:00, stay tuned for "Hour Two" with Dave Yazbeck; following the BBC World Service News

Got a song request, sports team you'd like to see covered, poem, something really cool. Send me an e-mail to thursday_blend@yahoo.ca

Catch the Thurs. Blend: 7-9:30am EST on CKCU 93.1 FM

The Hek

Another Birthday has come and gone. It's always interesting that I actually never post anything on the actual day (March 13th). Anyway I want to thank everyone that acknowledged it and celebrated it and at least thought about it.

My birthday is a very weird day for me. I sort of go through this push and pull feeling. I want people to celebrate it; but at the same time, I don't want people to celebrate because I feel selfish asking people to party on this random day just because I happened to be born on this day. To put it simply, I want the attention but I also don't want the attention.

I really feel this when people sing "Happy Brithday." I want people to sing it to me; but when they do, I feel really embarrassed. When I was a baby and people would sing "Happy Birthday," I would cry. Even now, when people sing it, I get squeamish.

Then there's the actual celebration. In our society, there is this pressure that on your birthday, you have to go out and party and have this extravagant celebration. However, I'm not the type of person to go up to people and say "Hey, would like to come celebrate my birthday." To me it just doesn't feel right to organize your own party. If your friends want to celebrate, they should organize something and if they don't, you just live with it.

Yesterday, I organized this gathering at Patty's on Bank Street. As a side note, it just so happens that this pub was opened on March 13, 1975; exactly 8 years before I was born. I was hoping people would come. But, I wasn't expecting a lot of people to show up because it's Monday night and school work is getting intense and I thought no one would really have the time to come out for a few hours. I was wrong. People did come out. I can't begin to tell you how happy that makes me.

Then again, maybe I'm being too negative about this sort of thing. My roommate has told me on a number of occasions that I don't relax and I never allow myself to enjoy things because I'm too worried about the consequences of pleasure.

Once again, thank you to all of you for your birthday wishes.

Catch the Thursday Blend! 7-8am EST on CKCU 93.1 FM

The Hek

Now Celebrating 23 years...

To help end your weekend on a funny note, here are some of the CIA quotes from Vanganza (taken without permission from Owen's blog).

7:05pm Noel (Carleton!) This will be a scene in Gibberish. Which I guess you call Quebecois...

7:21pm
Noel: YouÂ’re one of those upper-class, sense-of-entitlement jaywalkers!

7:29pm Abby: Remember the last time you tried to spin an elaborate scientific lie?!

7:45 Noel: WhoÂ’s going to need to chew gum 24 7? Hookers!
Eric: And people at vaganza!

Noel: What would catch the hookerÂ’s attention? Money! We can make the package look like money!

7:52pm Owen: I am the amalgamated clone descendent of Pat Roberston, Bill OÂ’Reilly, Queen Victoria and the Pope... and his first stripper.

7:55pm Abby (WorldÂ’s Worst Whale) Kirsten, look at my sparkly spout! IÂ’m Your Little Whale!

7:57pm
David (WorldÂ’s worst construction worker): Aw, shit, weÂ’re out of lego.

7:59pm Abby: Ok look Kirsten, IÂ’ve lined up all our construction helmests, taken hamsters, put glue on their feet, and now theyÂ’re going to race and weÂ’ll see who gets to the other side of the room first!
Kirsten: YouÂ’re a monster!

:18 Noel: So what would you like, weÂ’ve got a psychedelic soup with lots of flavours and colours or weÂ’ve got, uh, steak.

2:40 am:
“melbourne! where even the genitalia are upside down!” Noel with city slogans

Hour 16: 3-4am (Photo: Moby Dick)

3:36 - Eric: ItÂ’s something you think about in general and often
Owen: Pornography?

3:45 - Noel: We need a dead celebrity
Mariana: Marilyn Monroe
Maryam: Yup, sheÂ’s dead.

3:52 - Kirsten: Hey, you really smell like nuts.

7:12am: Mariana and Adam have cracked, and are just jabbering madly to each other on stage (Coffee of Doom!). Josh and Eric are valiantly trying to play Deaths in a Minute over the noise.

7:13am: Mariana and Adam are back to normal.

7:13am (Deaths in a minute on the moon)
Adam: IÂ’ve discovered water on the moon....... TSUNAMI! (still too soon)

7:40am
Eric: All I got to say is keep pushing

7:57am
Eric: My main goal in life is to develop a normal... well, not a normal, but a Canadian accent.

8:29am
Merav: Just having Paris HiltonÂ’s name taped to my back makes me feel skanky.
Josh: You are skanky.
[not part of a scene]

8: 36am Eric: I thought you were about to start teabagging everyone spontaneously (not part of the scene)

8:40am: Arvind takes off sheets of paper--but leaves the sheep.

8:50am Arvind is a suicidal cigarette who smokes himself half to death and then stubs himself out in an act of desperation.

9:37am
Josh: Can I get a weird and wacky object that youÂ’re not sure why it ever existed?
Andrew: The keeper!
Mariana: Hey, the keeper is fucking awesome, okay?
Josh: WhatÂ’s the keeper?
Mariana: The keeper is a menstrual cup. Instead of tampons, which absorb blood, the keeper—
Josh: Okay, thatÂ’s enough of that. Can I have something you would find in a hornetÂ’s nest, that isnÂ’t hornets?
Mariana: What are you, twelve?!
Eric: WeÂ’re talking about Josh here.

The Hek

Now celebrating 23 years...

Thanks to everyone who posted their kind comments in regards to yesterday's blog. I really appreciate it.

Today, The Hek needs to do some housekeeping. Last week I was in Montreal with the CIA for McGill Improv's Vanganza show. Vanganza is basically a 24-hour improv show that raises funds for a worthwhile cause. It was a great show and we raised tons of money. Here are some photos:

March 3, 7:00pm; Noel Waghorn, The Hek and Abigail perform an improv game called "commercial."

March 4, sometime b/t 2-3am; The Hek performs "Say again" with a member of the McGill team.

Here's Owen Hewitt at 7am and still going strong.

CIA's Kirsten (in pink sweatshirt) performing with McGill improvers.

Owen Hewitt; 9:30am and still going strong.

The Hek, Owen and Kirsten perform with the McGill team; March 4, 7-9am.

Last but not least, here are the last three photos of The Hek's trip to West Palm Beach!!!

The Hek's roommate, Mark; still working on that off-white tan.

The Hek

So what the heck has The Hek been up to lately....

About a month and a half ago I was hired as a "street team member" (the technical term is Communications Assistant) for a CBC television program called ZED. My role was to help promote the show in Ottawa by organizing events. After weeks of some research and calling around the nation's capital, I was able to set up a number of important events.

The first events were ZED pub nights. This was part of nation-wide pub nights that were occurring this week as well as next week. I put together a pub night at Mike's Place on the Carleton campus as well as 1848 on the University of Ottawa campus. Both were held yesterday.
The second events were ZED film nights. This entails the screening of a number of documentaries and short films that are shown on ZED. So far, I have set up one for the Carleton residence students. It will take place on March 26.

Now, these pub nights and film nights are really, really fun. Not only do I hand out free stuff and promote the show, but I also give out some amazing prizes. Some of the prizes included t-shirts, iTunes gift certificates and DVDs. Plus they sent me my very own ZED t-shirt.

So yesterday were the pub nights and I hosted the one at Mike's Place and had an awesome time! About 250-300 people came
through the doors and I managed to give out almost all of the stuff. People really loved the buttons
and the postcards. Some even took home the posters.

There were only two little problems. First I had no microphone to use.
The pub manager thought I was just going to "network" around the bar.
Slight miscommunication I guess. Instead, I had to shout everything.
But in the end, everything worked out; except for my now sore throat.

Second (and on a lighter note), some guy was upset that I awarded
the iTunes certificate to someone else and not him. He swore that he
would never watch the CBC again. Most of the people around him told him
to stop whining.

Quite a few people told me that they love Zed and think its just
awesome.

So, by now you're probably wondering if I get paid for this. Well, yes I do. I'm basically freelancing for the CBC and I can't begin to tell you how much that makes me happy. This is something I have always wanted to do. Also, my coordinator in Vancouver, where the show is put together, has been very pleased with my work. Hopefully this will lead to bigger and better things.

The Hek

Come on out and join friends and fellow students for Zed Pub Night at...

Mike's Place, Carleton's campus pub
2nd Level University Centre, 1125 Colonel By Drive

Thursday, March 9th, 8pm

Fun games & prizes

Zed: Docs, shorts films, music
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 11:25pm, CBC Television
http://zed.cbc.ca

Catch the next Thursday Morning Special Blend!

Tomorrow, I'll be airing my interview with Mary-Martha Hale, co-chair of the Alliance to End Homelessness. Mary-Martha and I will discuss the Alliance's second report card on homelessness in Ottawa.

The Thursday Blend will also feature:
- Ottawa Sports Recap
- Volunteer Ottawa Placement of the Week
- Poem of the Day
- On this day in History
- The CKCU Entertainment, Arts and Community listings and the Byetown Cinema listings
- Charlatan News Report
- Ottawa Metro News

Got a song request, sports team you'd like to see covered, poem, something really cool. Send me an e-mail to thursday_blend@yahoo.ca

Catch the Thurs. Blend: 7-9:30am EST on CKCU 93.1 FM

The Hek

Damn,

The Hek can't put up the last three pictures of his trip to West Palm Beach. Blogger is taking forever to download. I feel like I let the one thing that gave me inner peace slip away. Now, the mountain of frustration just builds. I just want to show the photos.

Catch the Thursday Morning Special Blend! 7-9:30am EST on CKCU 93.1 FM

The Hek