Habitat For Darryl

2011-05-28T06:47:00.000-07:00

I participated in the second annual Plane Pull Challenge, hosted by the United Way, was held in Kelowna on Friday. The fundraiser pits community groups against one another to pull a plane, a Convair 5800, 20 feet across the tarmac in the fastest time possible.

Proceeds from the Plane Pull Challenge help the United Way fund 25 agencies in the Okanagan that serve children, seniors and vulnerable adults.
Last year, the event raised about $20,000.

Organizers expect to raise around $35,000 from this year’s Plane Pull. $34,000 was raised by the particpating 24 teams. I joined the Flying Fairfield Flamingo's team (Fairfield Hotels and Suites)

© Copyright (c) Shaw Media Inc.

"Like My Mother Does"

2011-05-25T08:53:00.000-07:00

In the Music Industry there must be some prestige in penning the songs that are given to the American Idols to sing as their first release. It must be bittersweet as the song will either be wasted on someone; we the public will immediately forget about or maybe it could be a small hit. Last night serendipity happened on Idol. Lauren's song will not only be a huge hit but an anthem for years to come. Did anyone catch J.LO throw up in her mouth when she even realized, that a 16 year old nobody was given such a career defining song? Forget Idol, a Superstar was created before our eyes last night...

Overstreet Can Forget It

2010-02-26T20:34:00.000-08:00

Even if I win Lotto Max tonight at $50 million, I would surprise myself if I were to enter into the crazy heritage comic market presently unfolding with some pedigree comics being sold at record prices (see article below). I've wanted for years to get back into the superhero collectible market, but many reasons have prevented this. I did a search of the Internet and found the record breaking comic discussed below in a condition and price point (Image included in this post) that I could hypothetically see in my future.

DALLAS - A 1939 comic book in which Batman makes his debut sold at auction Thursday for more than $1 million, breaking a record set just three days earlier by a Superman comic, Heritage Auction Galleries said.
The Dallas-based auction house said the rare copy of Detective Comics No. 27 sold for a total of $1,075,500, which includes the buyer's premium, to a buyer who wished to remain anonymous. The consigner wanted to remain anonymous as well.
"It pretty much blew away all of our expectations and now it's the highest price ever raised for a comic book," said Barry Sandoval, director of operations of Heritage's comics division.
A copy of the first comic book featuring Superman, a 1938 edition of Action Comics No. 1, sold Monday for $1 million in a sale between a private seller and a private buyer, with the transaction conducted by the New York City auction site ComicConnect.com. "We can really say that Batman has nosed out Superman, at least for now," Sandoval said. He said the consigner had bought the Batman comic in the late 1960s for $100. With a bright yellow background, the comic features Batman swinging on a rope above city rooftops. "That cover is just one of the most famous of all comic book covers," Sandoval said.
J.C. Vaughn, associate publisher of The Overstreet Comic Book Price Guide, said most people had predicted it would be the comics with the first appearance of Superman and Batman that broke the $1 million barrier. Both comics that sold this week were in great condition - scoring an 8.0 on a scale that goes up to 10, he said. "I think that you can greenly ascribe this to a real comfort with the liquidity of rare, high grade vintage collectibles," Vaughn said.
George Pantela, owner of Melbourne, Australia-based GP Analysis, which tracks sales of certified comics from more than 20 auction houses and dealers, said the previous record was about $317,000 paid a year ago for a lesser grade Action Comics No. 1 than the one sold this week.
Vincent Zurzolo, chief operating officer of Comicconnect.com, took the breaking of their record in stride. "It's an exciting week in comic books when you have two comics selling for $1 million," he said.

The Hitman Returns

2009-12-29T03:22:00.000-08:00

Bret Hart - my childhood "wrestling hero", back in the WWE after all these years. In the cartoon world of wrestling; this is big news. Without getting into the long story of why this looked like it would never happen; instead I am going to enjoy that it is. The article below does well in capsulizing some of the reasons why this is something I will not want to miss..., besides, I've never tried my hand at shooting a live wrestling event - maybe now is the time!

The Pink and Black is back
By: Craig Tello

Hell must be frostbitten and winged hogs must have been spotted overhead. On Jan. 4, 2010, Bret Hart returns to WWE.

For years, the world presumed that the day would never come for the almost mythic “Hit Man” to once again step foot on the WWE turf of Vincent Kennedy McMahon. Hell would freeze over and pigs would fly – requisite impossibilities – before the true pink and black would ever again be seen on WWE programming.

As unperceivable as it may be, the new decade kicks off with perhaps the biggest announcement in WWE history: Bret is back.

Hart’s legacy
The five-time WWE Champion and two-time WCW World Heavyweight Champion began to establish his electric pink legacy throughout the 1980s, flourishing with his greatest successes in the 1990s as he pioneered a “new generation” in World Wrestling Entertainment.

Boasting a lineage as rich as his ring achievements, the Hit Man is perhaps the most recognizable member of the legendary Hart Family, but more so, he is arguably the most outstanding product of Stu Hart’s infamously venerated Dungeon.

A “graduate” of his father’s basement training ground in the Harts' home, Bret ultimately debuted in WWE in 1984. Thereafter, in addition to his World Title feats, The Excellence of Execution captured the World Tag Team and Intercontinental Championships (on two occasions each), and proudly held the United States Championship in WCW three times. He was the first Superstar to capture the radiant King of the Ring crown on pay-per-view. He’s even won the 30-man Royal Rumble Match.

Essentially, there is nothing the Hit Man has not done inside the squared circle.

Pink and blackest night
The infamous Montreal Screwjob. A well documented tale of deception and betrayal that permanently impacted all of sports-entertainment, but moreover, the career of the greatest technical wrestler of our time.

The 1997 Survivor Series was the WCW-bound Hit Man’s final night as a WWE competitor as defending WWE Champion Hart clashed with his ultimate rival, Shawn Michaels, in D-Generation X’s infancy. To insure that the Hit Man would not be able to leave WWE with the coveted title, Mr. McMahon conspired with several key officials to guarantee Hart’s defeat in Montreal.

Drawing Hart's fellow Canadian countrymen in attendance to their feet, Michaels applied his own version of The Excellence of Execution's signature hold, the Sharpshooter. Leaving mouths agape, the referee immediately signaled for the ring bell as McMahon wildly commanded the timekeeper to follow suit. In one shocking instant, the match and WWE Title were awarded to HBK, while a disoriented then irate Hart watched the gold prize exit the arena over the shoulder of his greatest enemy.

The WWE Chairman would endure Hart’s fist-clenched wrath, but the blow would be returned the next night on Raw as McMahon callously summarized the controversy with a simple explanation: “Bret screwed Bret.”

The most foul end to any relationship, this was the tainted culmination to The Excellence of Execution’s unrivaled legacy within WWE. Bret’s career, however, proved more prolific than its most notable blemish acquired on that November night much colder than any other in Montreal, Quebec.

Honoring excellence
Realizing triumphs very few Superstars have attained in their careers, there was no surprise when the Hit Man was called to the WWE Hall of Fame in 2006.

The true shock, rather, was Hart’s willingness to attend the induction ceremony since Hart vowed to never again walk the WWE Chairman’s territory as long as he breathed. For his countless fans, so many members of the WWE Universe, Hart participated in the Hall of Fame event that celebrated his heavily decorated and respected career.

The best return there ever will be
This prestigious night was the last time Bret Hart appeared live for any WWE function of any kind. But as announced by the Chairman, that changes when Hart returns live to Monday Night Raw as arguably the most distinguished special guest host to date.

It will likely be an emotional night for The Excellence of Execution, his unanticipated homecoming to a place he never thought he’d ever revisit. It’s a WWE fan’s dream come true, limited to just two hours on USA Network. But so much has changed in WWE since 1997, raising countless questions.

What will it be like when the Hit Man walks into a WWE locker room after more than a decade? What kind of reception awaits him? How will the WWE Hall of Famer use his authority? Will he be overwrought by his personal feelings? Might he be vengeful? Or is this his means for closure?

Perhaps more on the minds of the WWE Universe is the almost guaranteed encounter between the WWE Chairman and the Hit Man. What might happen between these two men? And what of a potential meeting between Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels?

Don’t miss this monumental edition of Monday Night Raw kicking off a new decade in WWE, and witness the long-awaited return of “the best there is, the best there was and the best there ever will be,” live on USA Network at 9/8 CT.

No regrets @ 40 Club

2009-08-18T12:19:00.001-07:00

With Dan's 39th birthday just passing, it got me thinking. Do I need to get 'my house' in order? Am I going to be able to say, "Life is beautiful", when I celebrate my fortieth birthday next year? I remember, very clearly, when my father turned 40; his life after that became different. I dunno if society just thrusts you into another bracket; but to me it seemed that your perception and people's perception of you change.

So, I'm starting my club. I'm going to be ready. I will ask myself, "Is there anything in my life that at 40; I will stand and realize has passed me by?"

I want to write a book, but if I fail to do that by 40 that won't be a regret. If I'm not in physical shape and well-being at 40 that would be a regret. That's how the approach to this club will work. If there are certain things that JUST HAVE to be in order by 40; then by all means I will make it happen. I will not stand amongst my friends on my birthday with a down turned smile and say I am happy if I am not....if I do then I haven't taken advantage of this warning to myself. I can be honest and say that today everything in "my house" is not in order. I know I need to get better definition of who I want to be at 40. I want to be settled in that person I will take beyond that. Maybe I need to be nicer. Maybe I need to be less nice. Whatever it might be; I have just over one year to set it straight.

A "Wonderful" Conclusion

2009-08-10T09:54:00.001-07:00

Back in the early 1980's, Sara had a chance to meet, in person, her childhood idol, Lynda Carter. Lynda was making a public appearance in Toronto in full Wonder Woman costume and signing autographs for kids. Sara's mom was late in taking Sara to the signing; resulting in Sara never meeting her childhood idol. "All I ended up getting was a poster", Sara has told me time and time again. Finally this past Saturday, Lynda returned to Toronto and I was able to deliver Sara to the appearance on time. Here's the photo proof!

Of interesting note is that Father Dan and I share a similar story with Sara, not Wonder Woman, but about Adam West [Batman], Burt Ward [Robin] and the Batmobile being at Motorama in the 80's and not being taken to meet our heroes because of...well a plethora of reasons....we're still waiting!

If a picture is worth 1000 words - my proud dad grin says it all

2009-06-29T19:52:00.000-07:00

If somebody would've told me ten years ago that I'd.....

2009-06-26T20:20:00.000-07:00

The KISS fan routed tour contest has been alot of fun. I've been able to get Peterborough excited about KISS playing here. When I contacted the paper back in April and had my story published on the front page; I immediately felt a responsibility to "bring the contest home". My staged publicity stunt gaining the Mayor's endorsement, visiting the radio station and finally appearing on Chex TV to do the weather [in full KISS costume and make-up] was both hard work and exciting. KISS has been a part of my life for 31 years and never have I expressed my fandom for the band in the way I expressed this past week. For someone who spends the lionshare of time being far too serious, I'm happy that KISS reminds me that I can still be silly. At contest end - it looks like Peterborough will finish sixth.

A Step into the Past; a Step into the Future...

2009-06-21T03:28:00.000-07:00

The thousands of people, the screaming girls, the talent with attitude. It was wonderful being back in the element. David Cassidy didn't disappoint. I was very, very curious how a former teen idol has continued to make himself viable....near 40 years later! His legion of dedicated fans served as a wonderful example of someone who knew enough to either, hire the right people to manage his career and/or show respect to your fanbase over time and they will continue to serve you well. For me this opportunity was a wonderful reminder that I can slip back into doing what I did at one time so well. The senses were sharp and my anticipation for what could and did happen served me well. I'm not done yet!

The Girls with the Olympic Torch

2009-06-11T12:08:00.000-07:00

The Torch stopped in Peterborough today on a publicity swing for the carry the torch contest. Stephanie is certainly posing proudly with the torch while Lola Grace was more excited by the Royal Bank Mascot! My application has been submitted; with a wonderful, champion letter by Father Dan. I find out the result of the contest after July 15.

A Return of Sorts...

2009-06-02T11:51:00.000-07:00

Growing a family has certainly curtailed my chance to work in the Entertainment Industry. I haven't had a high profile 'gig' in some years. I am happy to announce that this June 20th, at Peterborough's Festival of Lights Concert Series; I will be on hand to perform Artist Security for the very talented David Cassidy. Hopefully I'll have lot's of fun things to write about after the show. Stay tuned!

Joke of the Moment

2009-04-15T21:38:00.000-07:00

An Atheist man was walking through the woods.
'What majestic trees'!
'What powerful rivers'!
'What beautiful animals'!
He said to himself.
As he was walking alongside the river, he heard a rustling in the bushes behind him. He turned to look. He saw a 7-foot grizzly bear charge towards him.
He ran as fast as he could up the path. He looked over his shoulder & saw that the bear was closing in on him.
He looked over his shoulder again, & the bear was even closer. He tripped & fell on the ground. He rolled over to pick himself up but saw that the bear was right on top of him, raising his right paw to strike him.
At that instant the Atheist cried out, 'Oh my God!'
Time Stopped.
The bear froze.
The forest was silent.
A bright light shone upon the man, a voice came out of the sky. 'You deny my existence for all these years, teach others I don't exist and even credit creation to cosmic accident. Do you expect me to help you out of this predicament? Am I to count you as a believer'?
The atheist looked directly into the light, 'It would be hypocritical of me to suddenly ask you to treat me as a Christian now, but perhaps you could make the BEAR a Christian'?
'Very Well,' said the voice.
The light went out. The sounds of the forest resumed. And the bear dropped his right paw , brought both paws together, bowed his head & spoke:

'Lord bless this food, which I am about to receive from thy bounty through Christ our Lord, Amen.'

Canada Election

2008-10-13T17:18:00.001-07:00

The issue of democracy in Canada is no longer who can vote - just about every adult group has fought and won that battle. The issues facing Canada today are how to encourage greater participation, especially by young people, in the political process and how to persuade every citizen that taking part in the system is not just a luxury - our survival as a democracy depends on it.

So Friends, please cast your ballot on October 14!

Defining Moments

2008-07-15T20:19:00.001-07:00

Everyone has a time in their life that could be characterized as "that insane period". This photograph does not lie. Somehow I thought that 'returning to eden' would give my character the boost it needed. 'Growing and dressing' your own food sounds romantic until you're doing it. This particular part of my life exists only in myth to my new friends and few of my old ones. I offer you the proof of when I lost my mind.

Site Under Construction

2008-07-15T05:36:00.001-07:00

Sorry, for the mess! Please visit again soon!!

Do It For Love

2008-06-25T18:44:00.001-07:00

Revisiting the DFG comic books has been great. I've enjoyed working with Todd Abbot and recreating some of the old Nepto stories of yesteryear. By the second issue, however, I sensed a lack of satisfaction in the work. Sure, it was great completing a few issues just to have some evidence of the brain work going on, but the stories and art were disappointments to me. Instead of starting over, I decided I would soldier forward with the new series, but just start to do it the way I WANTED. Three new books were in the canon and so I had less pressure to produce something quickly. So, it is with the fourth issue that I will present the first legitimate Nepto story for this millennium. I hope it makes me proud.

CosmoTV Contest

2008-05-15T16:16:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who voted for me and for your kind words. Your response got me featured in the television commercial and allowed me to change monikers from the negative, "Canada's Worst Handyman" to a cheery, "One of Canada's Most Eligible Bachelors. I didn't win the contest, that naturally was reserved for the young and naked.

Nepto & Me

2008-02-27T10:03:00.001-08:00

- or how you can learn a lot about yourself from the Superhero you create!

Nepto was my first "Super-hero" creation, therefore he had to be a REALLY big deal. Back in '81, I was reading every comicbook I could get my hands onto including: Batman, The Sub-Mariner, Spiderman, Moon Knight etc. I took the very best from every character and implemented it into him. I was just starting to learn about the value of own ego and was exercising some escapism with this character. Over the years, Nepto has always been progressive; never static. I attribute this to my own life as it mirrored constant change and no true defination. Nepto would change costumes like I would change personalty traits [drop one, pick up another]. With Nepto I could change his appearance, his powers, his orgin and offer no explanation. I tried to do the same thing with my life many times, simply by not offering any explanation for sudden personality or direction changes in my life. I wouldn't allow myself ownership over anything and frustrated all around me with how sudden I could change my stance on what to some were very important issues. All these years later, Nepto is still a work in progress. There is no character sheet that would illustrate exactly who he is. I have to think after all these years that notion was appealing to me [no simple defination], frustrating to everyone else, but right or wrong, a life coping skill I've transfered to my hero.

CosmoTV Contest

2008-02-20T20:38:00.000-08:00

Ok, on Valentine's Day Sara is watching cosmotv and she sees a bachelor contest...a few merlots later, she enters me and now I'm frickin' in this crazy contest. Isn't rule number one to not go onto the Internet when drinking? God, to show poorly would be soooooo embarrassing. LOL- it's all for good fun!
F.Y.I. Here's the link:
http://cosmotv.ca/HotGuys/BachelorSearch/181/profile.aspx

D.F.G. Comics Line-up Revealed for 2008

2008-02-19T05:49:00.001-08:00

D.F.G. Comics would like to invite fans to visit the official website, open during construction www.dfg-comics.blogspot.com for news, exclusive content, an online store and more! Check back often as the site is receiving continuous updates and looks to be fully functional soon!

In conjunction with this announcement, D.F.G. Comics would like to provide fans with a preview of new issue solicitation:

Spy-Classics - featuring "The Return of the Alligator"
The Todd Abbot Project - "Cyclone v. Tornado: The battle over Tsunami Girl"
The Invincibles - "Batttle of the Invincibles" storyline continues
Retro Spy - "Nova"
A New Captain Nepto Re-launch

BBQ's Best day

2008-02-19T05:45:00.000-08:00

Giving & Taking

2008-02-12T05:32:00.001-08:00

A Date in Kisstory...

2008-02-01T05:03:00.000-08:00

If you know me, you know that I've been a KISS fan since the '70's. I suppose this day [read below] does have some meaning in my life.

35 Years Ago Today
From: KISSOnline
Posted: January 30, 2008

Thirty five years ago today - January 30, 1973, KISS performed their very first concert at Popcorn (The Coventry) in Queens, NY. The band performed 2 sets at the club that night for a crowd of under 10 people.

Earlier this week, Gene recalled how that show came about:

1973 was the beginning.

Wicked Lester had just finished its album for EPIC RECORDS. There were five members in the band, including Paul and myself. Though we had a real recording contract with a major label, and though we had finished an entire album, we were depressed. It just wasn't what we had envisioned.

So, we started again. We tried firing the other three guys in Wicked Lester, but some wouldn't leave.

So, we quit.

We started again with a vision. "Let's put together the band we never saw on stage."

We got a manager named LOU LINET, who managed JF MURPHY AND FREE FLOWING SALT and DIANA MARCOVITZ (or something like that)...and when he heard the newborn baby -- KISS. He thought it was the worst crap he had ever heard. Needless to say, he was gone immediately.

So, we were managerless.

I put together a bio kit, while I worked at the Puerto Rican Interagency Council, as assistant to the Director. Peter's friend owned a printing press and printed up our invites.

But, where to play?
We didn't have a manager.
We didn't have an agent.
We never had.

I made a phone call cold to a place called Popcorn in Queens, NY and on the phone convinced the guy to hire a band, who would soon be changing their name from WICKED LESTER to KISS.

We got the gig -- three nights -- Wed, Thurs and Fri for the sum total of $150.
That was the beginning.

Thirsty Canadian Superstars

2008-01-28T21:51:00.000-08:00

Many people made the Thirsty Canadian United Way Challenge a great success, but none worked harder and longer, in my opinion, then Rich Vissers and Greg Keating of the Thirsty Canadian Pub & Grill....to be updated

Pond Hockey & Politics

2008-01-28T20:02:00.000-08:00

I'll be adding some comments about this experience soon.

Know Who You Are...

2008-01-27T04:48:00.000-08:00

As a career building exercise, I recently took a test to 'unlock the secrets of Personality Type'. I suppose finding out this information would be of great surprise to many people, but I've lived with myself all these years and already had awareness as to what Type I would be classified under. For fun, I'm posting the results - as to whether I agree with them or not or if you agree or not in your perception of me - we can discus.

INTP
(Introverted iNtuitive Thinking Perceiving) is one of the sixteen personality types found in a number of psychological typology systems based on C.G. Jung's theories of psychology.
INTPs live rich worlds inside their minds, which are full of imagination and excitement. Consequently, they sometimes find the external world pales in comparison. This may result in a lack of motivation to form and maintain relationships. INTPs are not likely to have a very large circle of significant relationships in their lives. They're much more likely to have a few very close relationships, which they hold in great esteem and with great affection. Since the INTP's primary focus and attention is turned inwards, aimed towards seeking clarity from abstract ideas, they are not naturally tuned into others' emotional feelings and needs. They tend to be difficult to get to know well, and hold back parts of themselves until the other person has proven themselves "worthy" of hearing the INTP's thoughts. Holding Knowledge and Brain Power above all else in importance, the INTP will choose to be around people who they consider to be intelligent. Once the INTP has committed themself to a relationship, they tend to be very faithful and loyal, and form affectionate attachments which are pure and straight-forward. The INTP has no interest or understanding of game-playing with regards to relationships. However, if something happens which the INTP considers irreconciliable, they will leave the relationship and not look back.

INTP Strengths
-They feel love and affection for those close to them which is almost childlike in its purity
-Generally laid-back and easy-going, willing to defer to their mates
-Approach things which interest them very enthusiastically
-Richly imaginative and creative
-Do not feel personally threatened by conflict or criticism
-Usually are not demanding, with simple daily needs

INTP Weaknesses
-Not naturally in tune with others' feelings; slow to respond to emotional needs
-Not naturally good at expressing their own feelings and emotions
-Tend to be suspicious and distrusting of others
-Not usually good at practical matters, such as money management, unless their work involves these concerns
-They have difficulty leaving bad relationships
-Tend to "blow off" conflict situations by ignoring them, or else they "blow up" in heated anger

Dan, Dan,..The Man

2008-01-16T22:02:00.000-08:00

I remember back in 1991 that Dan called me for a 'meeting' to discus something very important. This of course was odd, since we didn't book meetings with each other. Dan was also the manager of a Dairy Queen[!} store and when did he start booking meetings? I was told by one of his co-workers - he didn't even tell me personally about my required attendance to this meeting - but the word came to me that this was very serious and Dan was nervous of my reaction to the upcoming news he was going to tell me. If I were a better man; I'd have recognized then - what an asshole I had already become. I mean, my life-long friend being nervous about telling me something...some friend must have I been. Anyway, to labour this no further, Dan revealed to me that he had decided that his life-path was going to include God and the Church. My reply was, "Yeah - so what? What's this big thing you have to tell me?" I suppose there is a deep meaning to the story that I'm posting here, but for today I am just very proud of Dan and for the achievements that he's made. God willing there will be many more.

YouTube

2008-01-14T18:52:00.000-08:00

Visit this link and type in "Daniel Francis Graves" in the search box to see a short unedited video of a few moments of the ceremony. YouTube does not have a rotation feature - so the clip appears how it was filmed in my electronic source - I will edit the clip in time. www.youtube.com

Pictures from Dan's Ordination

2008-01-14T14:23:00.001-08:00

Filming in February

2008-01-03T17:05:00.000-08:00

Kim Woodburn, host of the British series "How Clean Is Your House", has found at least one family member in our household "that lives their life with a complete lack of cleanliness, etiquette or organization,”. Our family is participating in her new show, KIM'S RUDE AWAKENINGS. According to the W Network casting notice, “Kim is on a mission to give Canada's most slovenly, lazy, bad-mannered families a rude awakening in a bid to help them lead happier, healthier and more organized lives.”

We're filming our episode in February...should be a blast!!

Record Setting Turkey - for the Wrong reason

2007-12-25T18:14:00.000-08:00

We had a small 5.258 kg frozen, pre-stuffed "Our Compliments" basted turkey this Xmas that took an incredible time to cook. Imagine putting the turkey in the oven at 1pm and finally having it reach an interior temperature of 180F at 10:42pm!! I did some checking to see if this was even possible. I found "How to Cook A Thanksgiving Turkey Perfect Every Time". Now this was Xmas, but I can assume it would make no differece. Here are the words from Turkey Budda him/herself:

There are many variables that come into play when cooking a turkey. How accurate is temperature in your oven? Has the turkey been totally thawed? The only way to be absolutely sure that your turkey is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. The interior of the breast meat should be 170°F and the interior of the thigh meat should be 180°F. Then you know your turkey is done.

If your oven is accurate and your turkey has been completely thawed, the turkey cooking time chart below should give you a perfect turkey.
Size Turkey Time at 475°F Time at 250°F "Resting" Time Total Preparation Time
10 lbs. 20 minutes 3 hours 20 minutes 20 minutes 4 hours
11 lbs. 20 minutes 3 hours 40 minutes 20 minutes 4 hours 20 minutes
12 lbs. 20 minutes 4 hours 20 minutes 4 hours 40 minutes
13 lbs. 20 minutes 4 hours 20 minutes 20 minutes 5 hours
14 lbs. 20 minutes 4 hours 40 minutes 20 minutes 5 hours 20 minutes
15 lbs. 20 minutes 5 hours 20 minutes 5 hours 40 minutes
16 lbs. 20 minutes 5 hours 20 minutes 20 minutes 6 hours
17 lbs. 20 minutes 5 hours 40 minutes 20 minutes 6 hours 20 minutes
18 lbs. 20 minutes 6 hours 20 minutes 6 hours 40 minutes
19 lbs. 20 minutes 6 hours 20 minutes 20 minutes 7 hours
20 lbs. 20 minutes 6 hours 40 minutes 20 minutes 7 hours 20 minutes

Well, our turkey was only 11 pounds when converted and even with the pre-stuffing how can you account for the 9+ hours of cooking time? In the end when the dust settled; the comedy of this Xmas dinner flop will be well remembered and we still did enjoy our family dinner albeit a little later then expected.

Is Nothing Sacred?

2007-12-25T00:12:00.000-08:00

Cocaine found in Bibles
By TOM GODFREY, SUN MEDIA
The Toronto Sun

A drug ring that used couriers to smuggle cocaine into Canada in Bibles and other religious books during the busy Christmas season has been smashed by customs officers at Pearson airport.

Two couriers were arrested in separate incidents this month after more than $850,000 in drugs were found in holy books packed in luggage entering the country on flights from the Caribbean, Customs officials confirmed on Saturday.
"This is not something we see on a regular basis," said Patrizia Giolti of the Canada Border Services Agency. "Bibles are what people read for spiritual support and not for smuggling drugs.'

Giolti said a 21-year-old visitor from Barbados was arrested Dec. 11 after four kilograms of coke worth $550,000 was found in the binding of a Bible and other books. Another 21-year-old man, who claimed to be visiting from St. Vincent, was arrested a day later arriving from Guyana with 2.5 kilos of coke worth about $310,000 inside a Bible and in the false bottom of a suitcase. "The covers of the Bibles are unglued or slit and drugs in flat plastic bags are placed inside," she said.

Giolti said officers became suspicious because the books were heavier than normal.

Both men have been charged with importing a controlled substance and are before the courts. They face deportation to the Caribbean if convicted, police said. Their names have not been released due to an ongoing probe. Also arrested last week were two GTA women, aged 22 and 29, after six kilos of marijuana worth $125,000 was found in coffee in luggage arriving from Jamaica. And a woman, 21, was nabbed after arriving from St. Vincent with four kilos of coke smuggled in Christmas candles.

Highlight of 2007 - Without Question

2007-12-23T21:39:00.001-08:00

In an eventful year; the addition of Lola Grace Graziano Andrews to our family, was without measure, the high-point of 2007. Honourable mentions include: a grown-up marriage proposal and a return to school to embark on an exciting career change.

Wouldn't You Blow Off Phonics For This???

2007-12-23T21:28:00.001-08:00

The Underworld is abuzz with the rumor that Batman is dead! The only question is, who did it? A court of Batman's foes gathers to find answers! Their first suspect: Catwoman!

The report goes out from coast-to-coast in the underworld that Batman has been killed. But scores of contradictory versions spring up as to who did it, how it was done, or if it was done at all. To settle the controversy, Col. Jake "the Claw" Van Cleeve, a top Gotham mobster, provides his estate as a court of crime to determine the truth or falsity of the reports from the top contenders, Catwoman, Lex Luthor, the Riddler, and the Joker. The judge is Ra's Al Ghul, the district attorney is "Two-Face", and the jury is composed of the Mad Hatter, the Spook, Poison Ivy, the Scarecrow, Signalman, and Mr. Freeze.

The Catwoman, in widow's weeds, gives her testimony. After Batman recently broke up one of her rackets, she packed up her belongings and made an escape, but Batman blocked the road with his Batmobile and forced them both off a bridge. She says that she bobbed to the surface and clung to a floating jaguar cage for safety. When Batman attempted to do the same, she made a tough decision, kicked him off, and watched him drown.

"Two-Face" demolishes her testimony by demonstrating that her jaguar cage, made of Brazilian pepper tree wood, is too heavy to float and could not have supported her in the water. Her phony testimony is an attempt to convince the underworld that she is capable of killing, thus convincing top criminal talents, who have hitherto shunned her, to flock to her banner. The jury declares Catwoman not guilty, and Ra's Al Ghul dismisses her and adjourns the court till the next claimant can be heard.

4 A.M. Stories with Lola Grace

2007-12-19T04:32:00.000-08:00

Sara swears that Lola will work out her schedule on her own...so in the meantime I get to enjoy Lola Grace's stories of adventure and thrills at 4 o'clock in the morning : )

More Info on the Big Hockey Game

2007-12-19T03:09:00.000-08:00

Reported by the Peterborough Examiner

If their power plays match their political pull, then Peterborough MP Dean Del Mastro is suiting up a strong team for a charity hockey game.
Del Mastro is rallying MPs together for the Thirsty Canadian Hockey Challenge for the United Way and believes their coach will be none other than Prime Minister Stephen Harper.

"He's working it into his schedule," Del Mastro said yesterday. "As is common with the prime minister you don't get 100 per cent confirmation until pretty close to the event."
Harper is writing a book on the early history of Canadian hockey and is a hockey dad for his son Ben, 11.

The game will pit the Conservative Party of Canada team against the United Way All Stars in the Jan. 23 charity match as a fundraiser for the Peterborough and District United Way.
Del Mastro will be in net and joined by at least 20 other MPs who are volunteering their ice time. "If we were recruiting based on skill, I don't know how many MPs we'd have on the team," Del Mastro said. The current roster has 11 MPs and he's hoping to confirm some high-profile additions.

Finance Minister Jim Flaherty and Defence Minister Peter MacKay are likely possibilities to join the bench, along with Human Resources and Social Development Minister Monte Solberg. Del Mastro chuckled at the suggestion that Environment Minister John Baird could be the team's enforcer. He doesn't think Baird plays, but maybe he'll join Harper behind the bench.

The United Way All-Star's lineup may have a little more skill, with former NHL player Jody Hull and Petes coach Vince Malette already signed up. Organizers hint that other big names will also be announced. "It's going to get bigger. There's still a couple big names to come," assured Rich Vissers from the Thirsty Canadian. "We want to build the hype right to the game."

The United Way team will also include local celebrities, police officers and other community members who play hockey. This isn't the first time the Conservatives have suited up for the United Way. The team played a similar event in Kemptville in October. After that game, Del Mastro asked about bringing the team to Peterborough.

He'd previously been approached by the Thirsty Canadian about bringing his hockey team to town. "I guess they didn't understand at the time that I was talking about my colleagues in Parliament," Del Mastro said.

The game will be broadcast live on Cogeco and should be a big sendoff for the United Way's 2007 campaign.

"It'll be the last event, because we announce (the campaign's final tally) the following Monday," said Len Lifchus, CEO of the United Way. "I'm amazed at how interested people are in it, it's got a life of its own."

The money will come from ticket sales, jersey and period sponsorship, and a souvenir program. Local businesses will also donate prizes and items for auction.
"We're going to auction off a spot to play on our team," said Vissers, who has been overwhelmed by the community response.

Like all good politicians, Del Mastro and his team are out to win. But after hearing about the United Way's team, Del Mastro's getting a bit worried.
"I've been working on getting myself in shape, but the timeline has gotten a little shorter. I don't want to embarrass myself," he said. "Obviously, the goal of the night is to raise as much money possible for the United Way."

All involved are looking forward to the game and are excited about the attention it's already received, but nobody's promising to play nice.
"I promise the Conservatives will keep the elbows down if the United Way does," Del Mastro said.

Game day
What: The Thirsty Canadian Hockey Challenge for the United Way
Who: Conservative MPs, coached by Prime Minister Stephen Harper, versus local personalities and past NHLers to raise funds for the Peterborough and District United Way.
Keep an eye on both teams' rosters at http://thirstycanadian.com.

When: Jan. 23 at 8:15 p.m.
Where: Memorial Centre.
Cost: Tickets $10, available at the Memorial Centre or the Thirsty Canadian.

The Return of an Old Friend

2007-12-14T21:20:00.000-08:00

Years ago I celebrated my 11th birthday by visiting the movie house to watch "Raiders of the Lost Ark". What was pariticulary special about this birthday was that it afforded an opportunity for me to see my best-friend Dan, who I didn't see much as my family had moved away a year earlier. I remember he and I, with my brother Mark getting wired on cola and driving my parents mad with our retelling of the Nazi commander Belloq's grotesque demise. Now, 26 years later, I was surprised to find in my e-box the advance sheet of the new Indy movie that Dan sent me. It brought back many great memories and a reflection of where we are today. I don't often visit the movie house these days, instead electing to watch movies in the comfort of our own home, but I think for this particular movie I will extend an invite to Dan and his family to join us. I will be watching the consumption of cola by the kids however.

To Tell the Truth; I'm Going to Have to Lie - Confucius D.T.A.

2007-12-11T22:01:00.000-08:00

37 Musings

2007-11-27T01:31:00.000-08:00

updated soon

Thanksgiving for the Gift of a Child

2007-10-15T13:18:00.000-07:00

We recently had the wonderful honour of Lola Grace having a private celebration of her birth, at home by our close friend, Rev. Daniel Graves. Lola's birth was certainly a cause for celebration. Like most people we were overcome by a sense of awe at the creation of new life and wanted to express our thanks to God. This service was our opportunity to give thanks for the birth of Lola and to pray for a wonderful family life.

Friend Rob't Gage on Superstar Hair Challenge

2007-07-22T19:41:00.000-07:00

My good friend Rob't Gage [pictured with Marc Anthony] is appearing in a new television show on the Slice Network. Be sure to check it out!

By Rita Zekas
Living reporter

Between the two of them, Marc Anthony and Robert Gage have spent 82 years tending to hair – and in many cases, to the follicles of the rich and famous.
This more than qualifies them as judges for Superstar Hair Challenge, which debuts Monday at 10 p.m. on Slice.

Ten finalists are culled from hundreds of stylists across the country and Anthony and Gage are called on to make the cutting remarks.
Each of the seven episodes features challenges that range from creating bridal 'dos to affecting an avant-garde look garnished with objects gleaned from a shopping spree at Honest Ed's. It was evident from the results that some of the contestants didn't know what avant garde meant.

Anthony, 38, who has officially been doing hair for 20 years, was pleasantly surprised with the show.
"At first I was hesitant for a number of reasons – I didn't want to be a part of something not good. I dedicated 12 days in January during Oscar time when I was very busy. But I was very happy with the overall results: with the production and direction; with the talent; and the level of emotion that gets built up, which is remarkable."
That emotion should not be raging ego. Anthony demands that his workplace be a diva-free zone.
"I like to have people in my company who are humble and respect the client in their chair," he says. "They need to have a `star' quality like a Julia Roberts, not like some (who he won't name) who have an entourage of 15 people following them around shining their shoes."

Gage bonded with Anthony and let him do the heavy lifting – telling the hopefuls they didn't cut it.
"He was swift justice," Gage says. "Like one of The Sopranos. Some were so cocky they ruined it for themselves. We dispatched them with pleasure."
Gage has been doing hair since he was 15. He is turning 65.
"Don't print that! Do you want to put wrinkles in the paper? I was one of the youngest hairdressers in Canada and now I'm the oldest. It's experience.
"I don't usually do hair shows," he adds. "I'm past that. They hired me because I am old. Most people don't think I'm alive."
Gage describes himself as a "classic" hairdresser.
"It was very good for me because I had the opportunity to see people up close and see what they find acceptable," he says. "There was a group of hairdressers with one technique and no analytical skills. There is a reason you can't be a shampoo boy one week and a hairdresser the next.
"The East Coast has amazing hairdressers – they have nothing else to do but fish. There was a lovely girl from the East Coast who did wonderful things with a flat iron.
"But some were not on their game. They did superstar hair but they buckled in front of the camera, which was good TV. The other thing they miss when they're so wrapped up being a gymnastic hairdresser is that you have to make a person who is having their hair done look good. Nine times out of 10, they were very self-serving. Then there are the one-trick ponies . . .
"I kept thinking: who's going to be a hairdresser in five years from now and who is not? She's going to be a pole dancer and he'll be doing something else."
But really they were all winners, Gage stresses, because they made the finals out of hundreds of applicants.
"Marc and I appreciated skill, but if it didn't improve the person's look or at least keep up with it, they have failed," Gage says. "Looking different is not good enough; you need to look fabulous. It is no accident I have the richest clientele in the city."

A Real Honour!!

2007-05-07T16:24:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday, May 06, 2007, I had the honour of attending [with sara & Stephanie] the Ordination of Daniel Francis Graves to the Sacred Order of Deacons. This journey started many years ago for Daniel and it was an incredible moment to share with him and his family. Not so much an end but a new beginning; Daniel will now serve the community of Thornhill, ON where he will continue to be a role model and a genuine asset to the community.

Film Industry Survivial 101

2006-12-20T12:36:00.000-08:00

Darryl is in the midst of preparing a lecture specifically on the In's & Out's of the Toronto Film Industry for a Continuing Education College course.

Learn about the Industry from Darryl who's had success on both ends of the camera. Learn about Unions, Guilds and Networking shortcuts to gain valuable entry to the very
competitive Film World.

Watch this space to learn more details and how to sign up to attend this very detailed seminar.

Dream Super Power

2006-12-13T09:57:00.000-08:00

The Fantasticalnator.......was this dream I had with a unique super power. I could perform any non-impressive task, like say: sweeping the floor, take out the garbage, get dressed, put away groceries - all in an amazing fashion; but lost my power when it came to tasks that I would want to use this amazing power for. Note to all you 'dream-readers' out there...don't wear yourself out trying to analyze this one!

The Warkworth Experiment

2006-10-28T16:48:00.000-07:00

People like to say that in order to find happiness you need to find balance. You also need to throw away the materialistic trappings of society and return to nature so to speak. Do what you love and don't spend time on things that don't matter...blah, blah, blah. Everyone has read these books or seen an episode of Oprah that all but demands a change in life be made. Well, as everyone knows by now, on my suggestion, the family left the City behind and moved to Warkworth, to allow me to get in-tune with the meaning of life. Of course this experiment went waaaaaaaayyyyyy North; providing perhaps the most difficult years of my life, but I did learn two great things: perhaps, I'm just not ready to abandon greed, power, an urban lifestyle, running water and pre-stuffed turkeys at Thanksgiving and second, all those "advive-giving,budda-on-a-mountain-top",type people, need to to return to their perfect island and stop giving advice to the active, vibrant people of society who get temporarily derailed by their bullshit.

Screws And Hammers

2006-05-15T20:23:00.000-07:00

The Summer is over. A move is on the horizon. A new challenge awaits. How will it end? I'm not sure, but let me start at the beginning...

A Brief Introduction

2006-02-03T14:52:00.000-08:00

Raised and professionally trained in Toronto, Darryl is presently based in both Hamilton & Warkworth, ON where he has just completed a two-year sabbatical from the film industry to pursue other interests. Darryl has been the Personal Bodyguard to Industry Icons, Ms. Sophia Loren, Jamie Foxx and Sylvester Stallone (just to name a few). Seeing the many negative changes happening rapidly in the Film Industry, Darryl took leave to decide his future. Landing first in Trent Hills, Darryl discovered a wonderful community filled with generous people and commerce, yet wanting the proper promotion it deserves. For that reason, Darryl actively pursued a position in the Trent Hills & District Chamber of Commerce and many other community programs. It has been this positive change of lifestyle and community that has re-energized Darryl to return to the film industry and launch some new business ventures. Surprising, his first foray back into the film industry was as a participant of Discovery Channel’s soon to be released, “Canada’s Worst Handyman”, a reality show/documentary, showcasing five very challenged people who set out to renovate an apartment.