Sandy's Blog

Animalfest for Big Sky

2009-07-07T18:33:00.004-05:00

The Big Sky Animal Sanctuary in Kemptville is a truly magical place created by Andy Parent to be a safe haven for animals of all shapes and sizes, furry, feathered, tiny souls to big loveable beasts. They all come to this place with a story, most of them unwanted, no where else to go. For years Big Sky has continued to provide these animals with dignity and respect and a loving home to live out their years, thanks to the generosity of animal lovers everywhere. Big Sky founder Andy Parent is battling cancer. But each day at the Big Sky Animal Sanctuary the sun comes up, and Andy makes his rounds, making sure all the creatures big and small are taken care of. We need to help him out now more than ever. This weekend is the 5th 'Animalfest' for Big Sky, a wonderful fundraiser thats filled with fun and animals, non-stop live bands, prizes, BBQ, all kinds of surprises. Bring the whole family out. Its only $5.00 admission, all proceeds to the dogs, cats, horses, sheep, goats, all the animals at Big Sky. This year Animalfest will be located next to the Canadian Tire in Kemptville. For details go to www.bigskyranch.ca . p.s. thanks to Steve Gregory and his wife Diane (along with countless volunteerss) for making this happen

JR and Sandy's 'Summer On' Show

2009-06-28T12:54:00.003-05:00

This past Friday 'the Morning After' on BOB FM took the show on the road to really kick-start summer! JR and Sandy's 'Summer On' show featured the Maria Hawkins band live on stage at World Exchange Amphitheatre at the corner of Albert and Metcalfe. Its not everyday that people about to enter their respective office buildings get to check out a few minutes of a live band before 8:30 in the morning. I think all workdays should start with a live band. Thanks to everyone who worked on this show! Maria Hawkins, Paula Partner from World Exchange, Wall Sound & Lighting, Brad Weaver for keeping JR and I on the air!

Check out Maria performing 'I Can See Clearly Now' from Friday's show on Youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DfhkMWX9ok

(above) the Maria Hawkins Band- so much energy so early in the morning!

(above) JR and Debra Great times! Summer has begun!

Kanata Centrum Plaza: Where Talent Gets Noticed!

2009-06-21T14:29:00.004-05:00

It was a ton of fun participating in the Youth Singing Contest, which was held yesterday at the Kanata Centrum Plaza on the pedestrian mall. I had the pleasure of being one of the judges, along with Don (singer extraordinaire, you've probably seen him performing atop the bar at Marshys) and Tracy (music teacher extraordinaire). I was the only one whose qualifications to be a judge were somewhat questionable. Thanks to Sheila of the Kanata Centrum Plaza for setting up quite a show, and Erin and hubby Colin did a wonderful job producing the event. Hats off to the stars of the show: the kids with the amazing voices!
pictured above: the singers pose for one big group shot

(above) this is Madison McSweeney, who played an awesome version of Alice Cooper's 'School's Out'. No doubt every kid's favourite song at this time of year....just a few more days......

Sophia Pantuso (on the left) : Winner of the senior competition, along with the junior winner, Lindsay White! Congratulations!!!

Sheila, Colin and Erin wind down after the competition at O'Connors Irish Pub!

Vik Sahay is one of ours!

2009-06-11T19:45:00.002-05:00

(pictured above: Vik Sahay and Zach Levi of 'Chuck')

Chuck is one of the best shows on TV!!! Thank goodness its coming back for another season, which will start next March. Chuck is smart, funny, well written and well acted...I've been a huge fan since the debut episode, so it was quite a bonus to discover this little tid-bit of information only recently: Vik Sahay is from Ottawa! Yep! The hysterical Vik Sahay, who plays 'Lester' from the Buy More, was born and raised right here and attended Canterbury High School! So...if anyone knows Vik, went to school with Vik, or happens to know if he's hanging around Ottawa for any reason this summer, let me know. We'd love to have him as guest on BOB and I would promise not to gush too much......

It Might Get Loud!

2009-06-11T19:19:00.003-05:00

Read this line out loud in a really deep movie trailer voice: If you only see one movie about guitars this summer, make it this one: 'It Might Get Loud'. Forget about all the other movies that may come out about guitars. This is the only one you need.

This documentary was produced and directed by David Guggenheim, the director of 'An Inconvenient Truth'. But the big story here is the stars of the show, pictured above: Jack White, Jimmy Page, and the Edge. The film brings these virtuosos together to discuss one thing and one thing only: the electric guitar. Candid discussions, studio out-takes, concert footage, all in the name of guitar worship from the point of view of 3 rock legends from three different generations. The people behind 'It Might Get Loud' offer this promise: watching the film won't affect how you play guitar, but it will affect how you listen. For any guitar player out there, this is a must-see. But you have to wait til opening day, August 14th. In the mean-time, change your strings. And comb the bottom of the washing machine for lost guitar picks.

Here's a link to the website and the trailer:

www.itmightgetloud.com

Swans on the Rideau!

2009-06-02T12:51:00.003-05:00

pictured above: Hannah and Tommy Sachs, this year's official 'Swanskeepers'!

As a kid growing up just a five minute bike ride from the Rideau River, a big part of my summer was spent hanging out watching the Royal swans (and feeding them stale bread crusts, which in hindsight was probably not a good idea). So it was such a fantastic experience this morning, to witness my first time ever 'Release of the Royal Swans into the Rideau', where they will spend the summer. On hand were Michelle Sachs and her kids Hannah and Tommy, who were the official 'releasers' of the swans today. (Michelle was the top bidder for this experience back in March at the Humane Society Fur Ball) We were also joined by Humane Society executive director Bruce Roney, Councillor Diane Deans (who was instrumental in saving the Royal Swan program - huge kudos to Diane!!) The City of Ottawa's mistress to the swans Christine Hartig was on hand, as well as Brent and Ray to help out. The swans were released in pairs in three areas of the Rideau River. The final release featured a male and a female who were not a 'couple'....yet. They were 'neighbours' in their winter pen, and had yet to really meet face-to-face, or 'beak-to-beak'. So when they were released simulataneously from their crates this morning, it was an incredible moment to see them pose together so beautifully, forming a 'heart' with their graceful necks, and swimming off to find some Rideau River romance. Christine was especially thrilled, now considering herself the 'Swan Match-maker'. Could a reality show be far behind?

Better prepare to get wet

Swans awaiting their summer vacation on the river!

Official 'swanskeepers' Hannah and Tommy Sachs, and mom Michelle

Brent helps Michelle and Tommy release a pair of swans

So beautiful!

And they come in 'black' too!

Another swan dives in

A romance begins!

I like your style

City of Ottawa's Christine Hartig, Tommy and Hannah

Ottawa Westie Round-Up

2009-05-22T06:51:00.002-05:00

'Westies in Need' is a non-profit organization that provides rescue and adoption services for West Highland Terriers. And Sunday, June 7th, its time to get Ottawa/Gatineau's Westies together for a big bash! Its the OTTAWA WESTIE ROUND-UP, located at K9sense, 982 Rideau Road! Westie games, prizes, bbq, all kinds of fun to raise money for Westies in Need. For pledge sheets and information, go to www.westiesinneed.ca!

Introducing 'Pound Puppy!'

2009-05-19T06:10:00.002-05:00

Andrew Thompson, the winning bidder for Vinney White's House Party, has come up with another unique way to raise funds for the Humane Society's 'Breaking Ground' campaign to build a new shelter! Introducing...'Pound Puppy', pictured above! Pound Puppy is a 1992 Volvo 740 that has been converted into a dog, complete with eyes, ears and a nametag! Andrew is offering people the chance to put their dog's name(s) on the car for a $20 donation to the 'Breaking Ground' campaign. He will also put your dog's photo on his website! The car is an actual racer, and will be competing at Capital City Speedway in the Enduro class on July 12th, August 12th and September 12th. The goal is to raise $20,000. To donate and have your pup on the 'Pound Puppy', go to www.keysina.com and click on 'FUNdraising'!

The BOB FM Great Pumpkin Growing Contest is ON!!

2009-05-19T04:25:00.004-05:00

Get some pumpkin seeds and stick them in the ground! Or do what Russell and Steven have done (pictured here) and start these babies in a pot, either way, the RACE IS ON! Its BOB FM's first ever Great Pumpkin Growing Contest! No registration required, just grow the biggest pumpkin you can. Drop us an occasional line at mornings@939bobfm. com , and you can send us photos if you like. This fall, we'll see who has the biggest pumpkin of them all! You'll win a great trophy and of course, bragging rights. p.s. hint.... word is that 'Atlantic Giant' pumpkin seeds deliver results. Pumpkins that are bigger than a bike. Good luck!!

These Animals Need Our Help!

2009-05-13T16:24:00.012-05:00

I recently spent the morning at the Ottawa Humane Society shelter; a building designed 40 years ago to house 2500 animals annually. The Humane Society now sees 11,000 animals a year. Animals stacked in cages; lack of proper ventilation; cramped conditions that contribute to the spread of disease.

Despite the terrible conditions, what amazes me about the shelter is the level of care that Ottawa's neglected, lost and injured animals receive by caring, enthusiastic staff and volunteers. Until now, they have worked wonders while working in this archaic environment. As Humane Society vet tech Iona Guindon-Carson described to me, the staff has been 'very creative'. But its time to give Ottawa's animals the conditions that they deserve. In March, the Humane Society embarked on an ambitious campaign to build a new state-of-the-art shelter. The goal is 9.5 million dollars. To say that the Ottawa Humane Society appreciates every dollar donated is truly an understatement. We all know how much our pets complete our family. Think of your own loved pet...cosy, comfortable...well fed and cherished. Now think about the ones who are not so fortunate. Look into the eyes of the faces below. These dogs and cats are desperately looking for homes. But until they find that home, they are being cared for by wonderful people who work miracles every day. The new shelter provides the promise of a future for Ottawa's lost and abused animals. The land has been purchased, the plans are in place. In fact, you can get all the details at http://www.ottawahumane.ca/breakingground/. Please give what you can. And if you're a kid, and you would like to get your classroom or the kids in the neighbourhood involved in fundraising for the Humane Society, I want to hear from you. email me at Sandy.Sharkey@chumradio.com. I promise to feature your story right here. Lets do it!

Something Worth Savouring!

2009-05-11T14:20:00.006-05:00

2009 Gala Fashion Show
Something Worth Savouring!

Please join me and A-Channel Morning's Angie Poirier for a fun-filled evening of fabulous food and fashion for St Joes Womens Centre!

Indulge in a delicious 3-course meal while savouring the latest haute couture from Richard Robinson Academy’s graduating protégés.
Celebrating 25 Years of Support
St. Joe's Women’s Centre

On May 14th 2009, St. Joe’s Women’s Centre will be celebrating 25 years of commitment and dedication to providing programs that service the needs of vulnerable women and children, in a supportive and safe environment. Social and educational programs are offered to promote empowerment, autonomy, and dignity in a non-judgmental atmosphere.

Join us on Thursday May 14, 2009 for our Silver Celebration. We will be hosting a Gala fashion show and dinner complete with prizes! Collections from graduating students of the Richard Robinson Academy will be showcased as we enjoy a fun filled evening. Get involved and get inspired with something worth savouring!

Limited tickets to this wonderful event are $100 pp and includes your dinner and fashion show. Tickets may be purchased via fax or phone at Fax: (613) 233-4594 or Phone: (613) 231-6722.
Doors open at 6:00 pm for seating and dinner.

Event Details :
Dinner – 14 May 2009
Canapes
Vegetarian Vietnamese spring rolls with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce
Tomato boccocini skewers with a pesto drizzle
Asparagus and prosciutto bundles
Salad
Spring salad leaves with a dressing of “petits fruits” and a terrine of bison (vegetarian option also available)
Entrée
Choice of:
Maple glazed seared fillet of salmon with a light fruit salsa and a parmesan, white wine sauce
Chicken Wellington, supreme of chicken stuffed with asparagus, goat cheese and red pepper served with a roasted red pepper coulis
Dessert
Triple layered chocolate mousse cake. Decadent layers of Dark, milk and white chocolate mousse with a rich raspberry coulis.

Hurry! space is limited
Tickets: $100 and only available in advance.
Purchase your tickets today613-231-6722 (ext. 224)

Thank you to all our sponsors!
151LaurierAve.E., Parish Hall, St. Joseph’s Church
613-231-6722

Best Caesar Salad Dressing Recipe on Earth

2009-05-06T16:23:00.005-05:00

I've been inundated with requests for my caesar salad dressing recipe!

Well, ok, one request from listener Caroline Parent, and one request from our producer Hammer. Two requests! That qualifies for the word 'inundated', in my opinion.

Here it is: (with thanks to the person who gave the recipe to me in the first place, Jay Mantha)

1/4 tsp dry mustard

2 - 3 drops tabasco

4 - 5 drops worcestershire sauce

2 - 3 cloves crushed garlic (or to taste, I use more!)

1 tbsp lemon juice

2 tbsp red wine vinegar

6 tbsp vegetable oil

5 or 6 tbsp grated parmesan or romano cheese (romano has more 'kick'!)

pepper to taste

4 - 5 inches anchovy paste (optional)

* 1 egg (later)

Blend all ingredients in blender. Mix in an egg. Pour dressing over chopped romaine lettuce & toss with croutons and freshly shredded parmesan cheese (and cooked bacon if you want!) Refrigerate unused dressing.

Big Sky Ranch Summer Day Camps for Kids

2009-05-05T13:48:00.005-05:00

Summer is coming up fast and if you want to give your kid the experience of a lifetime, the Big Sky Ranch fits the bill! Check into Big Sky's fun and educational summer day camps with friendly animals for company. Its one camp where its OK, in fact highly recommended to get dirty!

Summer Day Camps!
Monday to Thursday: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm

Friday: 7:30 am - 9:00 pm (Western BBQ night)

For Ages 5 - 14, Summer 2009Camp Runs from June 29th to August 21st

Big Sky Ranch is a sanctuary for abused and unwanted animals. Come and meet new friends in an experience of a lifetime.Every summer Big Sky will sponsor 1 child per week to attend camp for free. For more information on this please contact Andy at the ranch. Let us show your children how to care for and keep these animals with a western twist of activities such as:
Horse Shoe Toss
Gold Nugget Treasure Hunt
Scavenger Hunt
Trail Hikes
Arts and Crafts
Hay Rides
Water Games
Bobbing for Apples
Learning How to Saddle and ride a Horse
Lassoing Lesson
Feeding the Animals
Grooming the Animals
Exercising the Animals
Collecting Eggs
AND MUCH MORE!!!!Book Now - limited spaces available$175/week and then $150 for each additional week

For more information call 613-258-7118 or go to http://www.bigskyranch.ca/!

Tyler's Garage Sale!

2009-04-28T10:08:00.003-05:00

Pictured above (from top) Emily Tieu

and Perry, Tyler and Ida Huneault

The power of the human spirit is undeniable! Tyler Huneault is a 10 year old boy who is suffering from a very rare genetic disorder called 'sialidosis'. It is so rare, in fact, that Tyler is the only person in Canada with this condition. Tyler's parents, Perry and Ida, are doing everything they can to ensure that valuable sialidosis research continues at McMaster University, to find the necessary treatments to help their son. At the age of 7, little Emily Tieu heard about Tyler and decided to set up a garage sale, with all proceeds to sialidosis research. Emily is now 11 years old and has raised almost $13,000 for the cause!

Please consider helping 'Tyler's Garage Sale', which is now branching out and getting bigger than ever, with 2 sales coming up, Saturday May 2nd at the Blackburn Community Centre and Saturday May 9th at 1407 McMahon Avenue in Gloucester. Donations of goods and cash can be made through Emily's website. Full details and maps are also here, please go to

http://www.pauldesrochers.com/emtyler.html

And please tune in to the 'Morning After' on 939 BOB FM on Thursday May 7th, where Tyler and his mom Ida will be our special guests in the studio at 8:20 am.

Beat Bob's Bank Buys a Bassett!

2009-04-23T06:21:00.003-05:00

Everyone loves 'Beat Bobs Bank'! Your chance to win $$$$ cold hard cash weekdays on 'the Morning After'! Last week, Carol Manson was one of our contestants, and she won $1,025.00 on 'Beat Bob's Bank'. She said she was going to use the money for a big new gas barbeque!
Well, we just received an email from Carol and instead of the barbeque, Carol took her winnings and adopted a one year old bassett hound named 'Hooch', from Bassett Hound Rescue in Rigaud, Quebec. I love this story!!! Fantastic. Here is a photo of 'Hooch' with Carol's sons, Adam, Kyle and Wil!

Spring is Like Friday!

2009-04-19T09:40:00.003-05:00

Don't you just love spring? To me, 'spring' is kinda like 'Friday'. Because if you think about it, 'spring' is filled with wonderful anticipation. That feeling that something really great is coming. And that something really great, is 'summer'! Fridays are like that too. People love Fridays because Fridays are one step closer to Saturdays. So, when you really think about it, 'summer', is like 'Saturday'. Because now you are right into the good stuff. Best time of the year. Best day of the weekend. Continuing on with this theme, (unless of course I have lost your attention, which is quite possible by now) . Now lets move on to 'autumn'. 'Autumn', naturally, is like a 'Sunday'. Its still pretty nice, you're still enjoying it, its still like a weekend, but........there is that nagging feeling that very soon...its all going to come to an end. Autumn = Sunday. 'Autumn' turns into .... 'WINTER'. Ugh. 'Sundays'.....turn into 'MONDAYS'. Double 'ugh'. And now, finally ... WINTER. Winter, is 'Monday'. Enough said about that.
So, in summary:
'Spring' is 'Friday'
'Summer' is 'Saturday'
'Autumn' is 'Sunday'
'Winter' is 'Monday'
This is the point where people usually tell me that I have too much time on my hands.
-
The above picture of 'crocus' was taken in my garden about an hour ago. I am a gardening nut and I love the fact that this past-time has become so popular!! The recession has been ridiculously difficult for everyone, but some good things have surfaced as a result of the economic downturn- like people's desire to get down and dirty in the garden. A news story came out this week suggesting that a $70 investment in tools, soil, plants, etc would eventually yield about $500 worth of vegetables! Putting in a vegetable garden has never made more sense.
I don't have a vegetable garden. I have a daylily garden, a rock garden, a zen garden, a sloped garden, and a patch of 'anything goes' , but I've never had a vegetable garden. I might have to make one this year. I'll start with zucchini. I want to see if I can grow one of those 4 foot long zucchini. Or a 500 pound pumpkin. Or a 300 pound turnip. Since my husband doesn't really like vegetables, I may as well make my vegetable garden like some sort of science experiment gone wrong.

Earth Day is coming up this Wednesday! I love the fact that retailers are starting to put the brakes on plastic bags. I do own cloth grocery bags but I admit that I often forget to bring them to the store with me. Its just so easy to accept those horrible plastic bags. But as of Wednesday, Loblaws is going to start charging (I think its 3 cents?) per plastic bag. Not a huge price to pay for a bag, but it does send a message. Walking out of a store with your groceries stuffed into 10 plastic bags is soon going to be akin to throwing an empty Coke can out the window of your car. It just won't be socially acceptable. Experts knock us over the head with information about climate change and the environment. But the most effective way to get people to pay attention? Have us turn on each other. Sure, as of Wednesday, you will still be able to get plastic bags at the grocery store. But if you continue to use plastic bags, you may get icy stares. Other cloth-bag-using shoppers will look at you with disdain. Some may even snort at you. Al Gore really got the climate change ball rolling with his 'Inconvenient Truth'. But I guarantee that the single most important revolution towards a positive future for our environment, is having someone snort at you because you are using a plastic bag.

Disco Inferno Vegas Night!

2009-04-08T08:29:00.002-05:00

Its Disco Inferno Vegas Night! OK so the poster above may be a bit 'small' to read - its an event thats BIGGER THAN LIFE!! Thursday, April 16th Restaurant eighteen invites you to put on your best platform shoes, flare pants, white suits or any other fashions that made an impression from the movie 'Saturday Night Fever'! Its DISCO INFERNO VEGAS NIGHT!! Fabulous hairdresser and all-around nice guy Joseph Saikaley of Byblos Salon is celebrating his big '4-0' birthday - and in lieu of gifts - he wants everyone to come out to Disco Inferno night and help raise money for the University of Ottawa Heart Institute! Joseph and his fiancee Caroline Gosselin of restaurant 18 are big supporters of the Heart Institute. There will be fabulous food, silent auction, 'gambling', and dancing to live entertainment by Disco Inferno! Tickets are just $55.00 per person, so get yours now! For information go to www.restaurant18.com! Or stop by at Byblos Salon, 705 Bank Street in the Glebe!

Easter Bunnies!

2009-04-08T07:01:00.002-05:00

Happy Easter! I know its only Wednesday but what the heck. I love this cartoon

Please Help to Find Austin!

2009-04-03T09:45:00.002-05:00

Above is a poster that was sent to me by
Sherry Cleveland, who's beautiful dog has been missing since March 23rd. If you are in the LAGGAN/CORNWALL/DUNVEGAN AREA, and you know of Austin's whereabouts, please contact Sherry at phone number(s) above! p.s. we know how dogs can run, so even if you are not in the Cornwall area, and you've seen this dog, any information would be greatly appreciated!

Sam is the Man!!

2009-04-03T04:52:00.002-05:00

Our email address at the 'Morning After' on BOB FM is mornings@939bobfm.com
We love getting your letters, and this one was priceless. It comes from Nathalie Lamy, who played 'Beat Bob's Bank' with us this past Wednesday. Unfortunately Nathalie didn't win any cash (at one point she was at $410, but she went on to be overdrawn), but she did get a 'I played Beat Bob's Bank and all I Got Was this Lousy T-shirt' t-shirt. A consolation prize, as they say.
Pictured above: her son Sam in the t-shirt.
Here is Nathalie's note to us:

Hi,
I won your wonderful t-shirt playing beat Bob's bank on Wednesday. When my 8 yr old son came back from school I explained my whole Bob adventure, loosing 410$ but winning a Bob fm t-shirt and he was delighted! He could not believe that _I scored_ a Bob fm t-shirt! He put it on, slept in it and wanted to go to school in it but I had to draw the line somewhere. (This shirt is an extra large it goes down below his knees as seen in the attached picture) . This shirt is the ultimate prize it seems, even after I re-explained to him that should I had won the 410$, I would have been able to buy him the sooo coveted Bob-fm t-shirt. I guess for my son you guys are like royalty. He feels like he won the lottery. It was great fun and made my son's day.
Nathalie

I love it!

The Humane Society Fur Ball -$155,000 Raised!!!

2009-03-30T16:16:00.005-05:00

The Ottawa Humane Society Furball was a fantastic success!! $155,000 raised for the animals! Congratulations to all who worked so hard to make this evening so special! Mrs Laureen Harper returned as honorary chair, with her date, Environment Minister John Baird. Kudos to chef Kurt Wadele and jazz singer Deborah Davis. The event was sold out, a great time had by all...and details were unveiled about the exciting new 'Breaking Ground' campaign! The Ottawa Humane Society is on its way to raising 9.5 million dollars to build a new state-of-the-art shelter to help the animals. Please go to http://www.ottawahumane.ca/ to see the exciting new plans! p.s. a special thanks to BOB FM's Vinney White, who was 'purchased' for $2000 to bring his Friday Night House party to Andrew Thompson's house, all proceeds to the animals!

MPP
Jim Watson and CTV's Leanne Cusack

Belle, Maggie and friends from the 'Brightening Lives' program

Mrs Laureen Harper, John Baird and Mika

Mrs Harper, John Baird, Susan Giles, Mika and Rocket

Bruce Roney, executive director of the Ottawa Humane Society

Mrs Harper gives a heart-felt speech

Laurie (Cole Funeral Services), Tim (Palladium Insurance) and Leanne Cusack

James Jefferson and Frank Sukhoo

Trudy and friends!

Fleetwood Mac hits the Capital

2009-03-24T20:22:00.004-05:00

it was a great show last night, Fleetwood Mac brought decades of huge hits to Scotiabank Place. One of the finest shows I have ever seen! The band seemed genuinely happy to be here and they played well over 2 hours. Considering the fact that I've probably listened to Fleetwood Mac's 'Rumours' album over a thousand times, it was pretty cool seeing the band play so many of those songs. If I never go to a concert again, at least I got to see 'Go Your Own Way' played live.

Vinney White Friday Night Dog Party for the Humane Society!!!!

2009-03-24T19:06:00.002-05:00

Vinney White is a guy who knows how to find the party. Especially...when he IS the party. Vinney's FRIDAY NIGHT HOUSE PARTY is Ottawa's favourite way to spend a Friday night, so we thought....why not take it on the road for a great cause!! And the best part of all, is that the address of the party - could be YOUR HOUSE! 939 BOB FM is a proud sponsor of the Ottawa Humane Society Fur Ball, which is this Saturday at the National Gallery. (its sold out) The night will be an official kick-off for the Humane Society's 'Breaking Ground' campaign: details will soon be released about a huge campaign to build a new shelter for Ottawa's lost, abandoned and abused animals. To raise money for this wonderful cause, ALL THIS WEEK, on the home page at www.939bobfm.com, you can email a bid to HOST Vinney and the Friday Night House Party , at YOUR house! You can choose the Friday night you want, you can save it for the summer, you can have the party in conjunction with a celebration, a birthday, an anniversary, a street party, a community group, a girl's night out, WHATEVER!!! ITS UP TO YOU!! Vinney will arrive on your doorstep with the Bob technical crew, and Gabriels Pizza will swing by with pizza and refreshments for all! Email bids will be accepted until Friday morning, then the auction turns 'live' with Vinney joining JR and I on 'the Morning After'. Be sure to tune in and call us with YOUR best bid, the winning bidder will be announced at 8:30 am this Friday morning on 'The Morning After'. At this point, the TOP BID IS $800!!! We know we can do better than that....its for the animals!!!

Balderdash Ball!!!! Lies! Its all Lies!!

2009-03-24T18:32:00.002-05:00

Picture above: the 'CALM BEFORE THE STORM'!!!!
This is a snapshot (taken last year) of a room that was about to explode with laughter, at the annual BALDERDASH BALL!!!
What is the 'Balderdash Ball', you ask? It is a FOOLS FABLE CONTEST!! Come and hear fables and yarns and spoofs, and just plain 'balderdashery' - presented in a fashion that BEGS FOR votes, as it IS a contest!! This is my first year participating in the Balderdash Ball, and I'm really looking forward to it! I haven't figured out what yarn I will spin yet. I can either make the whole story up or tell a story with an ounce of truth. Maybe I'll talk about the time I met Morgan Fairchild...yeah...thats right. Morgan Fairchild!
Get your tickets now for this hilarious evening, dinner, dance and silent auction, with all proceeds to Childrens Village and the Debra Dynes Family House. It all takes place on Saturday April 4th at the Ukrainian Banquet Hall, 1000 Byron Avenue. Tickets are just $60 each, available by calling 613-725-2040 ext 139, or 613-224-3824. I may bring Morgan Fairchild with me.

Everyone's Irish today!!!!

2009-03-17T07:38:00.003-05:00

Happy St Pattys Day everyone!!

Thank you so much to our friend Brian McColl, radio announcer and radio guru extraordinaire, who joined us this morning from Dublin Ireland to give us a look at how St Pattys Day is celebrated 'across the pond'! Brian is 100 percent Irish and he loves Canadians! You can reach him at http://www.bmacmedia.com/

While in Boston last summer, my husband and I went to a pub called 'The Black Rose'. On the paper placemat was a story that I found incredibly interesting, so I saved the placemat for today, because it is a true St Pattys Day story! Here it is:

'Nine Famous Irishmen'

In Ireland, nine men were captured, tried, and convicted of treason against Her Majesty, the Queen during what has been referred to as the "Young Irish Disorders", in 1848 or thereabouts. The nine, who were sentenced to death, were Pat Donahue, Charles Duffy, Michael Ireland, Morris Lyene, Thomas McGee, Terrence McMannus, Thomas Meagher, John Mitchell and Richard O'Gorman.
The judge asked if there was anything any of them wished to say before being sentenced. Meagher, whose response summed up the attitude of them all, replied, "My Lord, this is our first offense, but not our last. If you will be easy with us this once, we promise on our word as gentlemen, to do better next time, sure we won't be fools to get caught."
The judge, outraged rather than amused at Meagher's remarks, indignantly decreed that the defendants should be hanged until dead, and drawn and quartered. Passionate protests, however, influenced Queen Victoria to commute the sentence to banishment for life and transportation to far, wild Australia.
In 1874, an astounded Queen Victoria received word that the Sir Charles Duffy who had been elected Prime Minister of Australia was the very same Charles Duffy who had been transported there some twenty-five years earlier. curious about the fate of the other eight young Irishmen convicted with Duffy, the Queen demanded that the records of those transported and banished from England during the incidents of 1848 be researched and revealed. This is what they found:
Thomas Meagher Governor of Montana
Terrence McMannus Brigadier General, U.S. Army
Patrick Donahue Brigadier General, U.S. Army
Morris Lyene Attorney General of Australia
Richard O'Gorman Governor of Newfoundland
Michael Ireland Attorney General of Australia
Thomas McGee Member of Parliament
Minister of Agriculture
President of Council, Dominion of Canada
John Mitchell Writer and prominent New York politician
His son became Mayor of New York City