Monday, December 7, 2009

The Tragically Hip - December 04, 2009: Tripod, Dublin


December 04, 2009: Tripod, Dublin

Oncce again I went out of my way to see one of the best active rock and roll bands in the business and was not disappointed. Last Friday I spent an intimate evening with The Tragically Hip in Dublin, IE.

Among the roughly 600 fans in the audience were plenty of happy Canadian fans who were delighted to see a Buffalonian donning a Canadian Hip jersey.

The atmosphere was electric and the crowd was very much alive and ready for anything. We were treated with two full sets ( 2 encores) with each song as tight and as crisp as only the Hip can do, night after night! It was a real pleasure to once again have the opportunity to see the guys in a small intimate venue.

My thanks go out to The Tragically Hip, my wonderful Irish hosts, the beautiful Canadians who were as happy as ever and of course my traveling companions. I apologise about the photo quality, but it is the best one I took from the show.

SET LIST

1. New Orleans Is Sinking

2. The Depression Suite

3. Poets

4. It's A Good Life If You Don't Weaken

5. Fireworks

6. Springtime In Vienna

7. Morning Moon

8. Family Band

9. Love Is A First

10. Courage (For Hugh Maclennan)

11. Coffee Girl

12. Fiddler's Green

13. Gift Shop

14. Ahead By A Century

15. In View

16. At The Hundredth Meridian

17. Bobcaygeon

18. Fully Completely

19. My Music At Work

20. Grace, Too

21. Blow At High Dough

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

OH Bama?




Just a week before President Barack Obama accepts his Nobel Peace Prize he has decided to escalate the war in Afganistan by adding 30, 000 more troops. This increase will put the new total of troops at nearly 100, 000.

Not really the hope and change the world was expecting. Obama, like W, will continue to murder in our name "to prevent a threat to the US". I agree with Rachel Maddow, sounds like the Bush Doctrine is alive and well in the Homeland.

How could any of us have believed that Obama would bring the change from Bush policy he promised? Isn't the job of the American President merely to keep the corporations in power and continue the monetary system? War has always been America's fuel for progress - and will continue to be as long as puppets man the throne.

© bflo12, 2009

Friday, November 27, 2009

Free Yourself From Corporate Rule


Buy Nothing Day started in North America in the early 90's and has grown to an international day celebrated in over 50 countries.

Before you buy, ask yourself:
Do I need it?
Can I afford it?
How many do I already have?
Is it recycable or renewable? If not, how will I dispose of it?
Is it made in a sweatshop by a child slave?
How does my consumption effect poor countries around the globe?
Am I thinking for myself or am I just part of the herd?

Celebrate the holiday season(s) and BUY NOTHING!! This year make a gift, write someone a song or poem, cook them a homemade dessert or at the very least, support your local, independent retailers!

"Don't you know when you're out shopping your just fillin' up someone else's pocket book? You think you bought what you wanted man, no you probably just bit the hook." Uncomfortably Numb - Jared Burton

Thursday, November 19, 2009

Le Foot Pas Les Mains


It’s hard not to be disgusted after last night’s World Cup qualifying match between France and Ireland. For the second consecutive match, the Irish team was the better on the field but came up short. Yet, in a world where cheating is rewarded, it only makes sense that Thierry Henry’s blatant handball will be justified until it is forgotten.

I have been on the winning side of cheating. In the 2002-03 Western Conference Finals my Lakers beat the Sacramento Kings in what is now being described as a big fix. The more talented and tenacious Kings were robbed blind by the league and referees to make room for the star studded Lakers in the finals. I, like the Kings, feel cheated.I find myself caring less and less about the "spectacle" of professional sports.

Let us not be too surprised by this latest event. Even when the truth is seen, simultaneously by millions of viewers and spectators, its clear that no one will come forward to rectify the situation. Did any of the big corporations and banks come forward after the collapse and say “Oops, my bad sorry, here’s your money back” or “No thanks, we don’t deserve bailout money cause we lied, cheated and stole”? Hell no! So don't expect Thierry Henry or his conspirators to come forward either. Should we blame them? If they really believe in the simple "referee error" theory, no we can't blame them. But Mr. Henry clearly and deliberately broke the rules and should at the very least, own up to it.

If a sport is a metaphor for life, then last night’s disgraceful qualifying match is an accurate description of the reality of our existence in the society we have created and perpetuate. Hard work, honesty and tenacity DON’T payoff. Especially when profit is of utmost importance for sports and its governing bodies.

Ireland’s “loss” also seems like a reminder to us in the lower echelon to remember our place. When and if we make it to the big stage and get a chance to play with the ‘big dogs’ understand that the playing field will not be even and that revenue, power and interest will also be playing against us.

If Thierry Henry and his teammates were real men and had respect for the game of Football and sport in general, they would come forward and admit to the infraction and, at the very least, accept a rematch with Ireland. But don’t expect that. Much of today’s news gives the French media and their supporters far too much credit by stating that they are ashamed. That is extremely false. They are ecstatic about qualifying and when pressed about the legitimacy of their victory – they point to Maradona’s ’86 goal in a world cup quarter final.

I’m sorry, using that incident to justify the result of last night’s match is clearly a crime against reason. To even go so far are to try and end the issue by claiming it was a "fault d'arbitrage" (referee error) still doesn't cut it. Yet, there nothing we can do or that will be done about it. France will go on to South Africa while the Irish players will be left with the "what if" idea that will most likely haunt them for some time.

© bflo12, 2009

Monday, November 16, 2009

Open Thread


For more disocurse like the above cartoon, visit www.ecohearth.com - the premier ecology site on the web.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Park and Suites Lyon Part Dieu - Review

Doing my bit to punish lazy hoteliers the world over. If a place is cheap and I get what I pay for, then fair enough. But if I spy an injustice then I seek revenge like Ben Affleck in Daredevill...

A hotel review by Dean Turner

I stayed in this hotel because I needed to be close to the Part Dieu TGV station. Therein lies the first problem! It is probably 800m from the station and not the stone's throw they advertise on their website. France does not have a great athletic tradition in the javelin, but if this hotel can find the person who threw a stone from the Part Dieu to the front door of the Park and Suites Lyon Part Dieu Hotel then a gold medal beckons in London 2012!

The room was perfectly clean and comfortable , and double glazing meant that I scarcely heard the trains ( a lighter sleeper may struggle) that pass by the foot of my bed.

The real let down was the fitness room. One dangerous treadmill (a mechanical fault meant it slowed down randomly in use) does not constitute a fitness facility. It was also in the same room as the Jacuzzi/ small pool, which made the humidity perfect for Bikram yoga enthusiasts but for anyone else it was mighty uncomfortable.

All in all, this is not a bad hotel, but as I chose it based on its gym facilities and its proximity to the station it is safe to say that I won’t be returning."

After asking if I could post the review the gracious author of the review had this to say.....


By all means use that hotel review - it is up on trip advisor now. Hotel is called 'park and suites Lyon Part Dieu" - reading it again I was a little kind. It was a really lazily operated joint run by a disinterested management who know nothing about running a hotel. I'm sure they take the money, make the beds, clean the rooms etc, but all notions of service were lacking.

Monday, November 9, 2009

Manchild in the Wasteland


Manchild in the Wasteland
Saturday,
December 5th, 8:00pm International House - Davis, CA

Manchild in the Wasteland is a one-man performance written and performed by Davis native and returned Peace Corps Volunteer, Barton Bryan. Come experience the roller coaster ride of Barton’s desire to join the Peace Corps, his struggle to adapt to the realities of living in West Africa and finally, coming to terms with being a part of the village.

While on the journey, Peace Corps' Head Trainer Buck Hess will open your eyes to all the fascinating and sometimes shocking details of being a West African Peace Corps Volunteer.

This engaging and enlightening production will be performed for one night only at the International House in Davis, 10 College Park, Davis, CA http://www.internationalhousedavis.org/

Tickets are $15 and $10 for students. Seating is limited. Reservations and tickets may be obtained by calling Mary Jo Bryan at 530-756-3191 or visit his website at http://www.letsgotoafrica.com/West_African_Caravans.html and link to Manchild in the Wasteland Play. If you have any questions, please feel free to email Barton at barton@letsgotoafrica.com.

Barton Bryan has spent the last 9 years focusing on two main passions: Africa and acting. After completing a BA in Vocal Performance, Barton joined the Peace Corps and spent two years in Mauritania, West Africa where he taught English and worked with his village on several development projects.

In 2005, Barton put his Africa pursuits on hold and moved to New York City to study acting at the Maggie Flanigan Studio. During that time he wrote Manchild in the Wasteland and performed it several times off-Broadway and in Austin, TX.

Barton eventually moved to Austin, TX with his wife Val. Since then they have travelled to Tanzania with a non-profit organization to help an orphanage, and in early 2009, Barton and Val started a Volun-Tourism business which offers travellers a chance to engage in local developmental projects while discovering Africa’s natural and cultural beauty.

Friday, October 30, 2009


“ There is no pain so great as the memory of joy in present grief."— Aeschylus

Friday, October 23, 2009

Amerikana (EP) - Jared Burton


It would be too easy to simply label Amerikana an anti-war album, or an anti-government album or an anti-anything album. Not only would it be too easy, it would be an incomplete description. It would be like referring to someone who is outspoken against the doings of ill-minded governments as anti-establishment rather than democratic. It would only inform a part of the album and would fall short in describing the artifact as a whole.

What we have here on this independently released EP is an engaging, responsible, politically charged and subversive journey by way of folk, rock and blues - that takes us back to the first half of the Dark ages of recent American history (aka the Bush years). It is a reflective journey, one that demands our attention. For in it is the potential for a new horizon of understanding and a stronger image of what ought to be, rather than what we sometimes apathetically despise. It is influential in that it works on our memory by keeping the conversation going. A conversation that began well before W. and will continue well after.

The last time I saw Jared was in San Francisco 2002 for one of the largest anti-war rallies since the 1960s. I gave up a centre floor seat at Paul McCartney to take an overnight bus to be part of saying no to violence and embracing peace. The general mood that day was not of anger and resentment, but rather hope and perseverance - two of the many qualities that underscore the 6 wonderfully arranged selections of Amerikana.

As a human being Jared is kind, thoughtful, intelligent and forgiving. As a musician he is prolific and brings forth an angst that he immediately remedies with, often indirect, pleas for change through hope and cooperation. As you listen to Amerikana, you will hear for yourself a timeless commentary on the human condition, rather than a rant against political systems or specific government figures. What begins in Uncomfortably Numb and ends in Amerikana is a continuation of a conversation that is as old as the first human who sought to create a world that attends to the least fortunate and not the most fortunate. Though the names and places may have changed, the same decisions are there. Jared has graciously accepted the role of messenger, to remind us of our worth, our hopes, our potential for authenticity and certainly our responsibility.

Unlike most of the music that dominates the pop charts and local radio stations, Amerikana delivers lyrical and melodic snapshots of American life that are not unattached to past, the present or the future nor are they reduced to any specific period. They pull you in and serve as a reminder that passive observation results in an anorexic existence void of any weight or substance. And Jared does this all the while playing and singing wonderful songs that you will want to play again and again.

Jared Burton’s music
is nothing if not sincere, talented and thought provoking, but most of all enjoyable. Amerikana gives us an honest introduction to a side of Jared as the musician, although not the complete picture - which is why many of us hope that Amerikana is just the beginning of things to come.

Sample and purchase Amerikana at: http://www.myspace.com/jaredburton

© bflo12, 2009

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Hitting The Wall



Writing is no easy task! It requires work, and lots of it. Those of you out there who labor at this art know what I mean. We all have our own difficulties when it comes to putting something down, but we can all agree – sometimes it’s tough out there!
Today’s example is that I have hit the wall. Between my job as an editor and the work I do on the side, I feel spent for the day – nothing left to give. There’s plenty of time left in the day to produce something, but I feel fried! So, I’m going to get up, leave the computer, get some air and go listen to Joseph Arthur later this evening at an intimate venue in the city. The problem is that the stress of deadlines and the ongoing dialogue in my head are sure as hell going to follow me out tonight. They will take the place of that nagging younger sibling whose insistence on not leaving you alone with your girlfriend makes getting to first base impossible. First base for me tonight is simply, relaxation, but as any and every writer knows – even if you are not physically writing, you are still working!
The irony here is that I’m writing about my frustration about not being able to write anymore today!

As KV would say "So it goes!"

© bflo12, 2009

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Recycling To-Go/Recyclage à Emporter


Recycling is easy when the right facilities are provided for you. But what if they are not? What do you do? Do you simply give in to your conditioning and use the regular trash bins? How do you feel after you have thrown away that plastic salad container, aluminium can or plastic bottle and/or the cardboard packaging? If you feel guilty and feel that you were left with no choice, I have the answer – try take-away recycling!

Sometime ago, while eating lunch in a Parisian café, I was alarmed by all the vast amounts of recyclable debris that is discarded. This scene made me more determined than ever to really embrace my 'take-away recycling' practice. Since then, I have always ensured that I have a fold-up canvas bag in my backpack.

This canvas sack is my eco-doggy bag. Wherever I go, if recycling facilities are not available, I simply take containers and packaging with me and put it in the proper receptacles later.

The Responsibility Is Ours

Mandatory recycling laws only do so much if they even exist where you live. The chances are that more often than not, you are throwing away recyclables during your average day and (hopefully) feeling guilty about it. Take-away recycling has become my way of solving this problem.

In my office and others in the US and EU, paper and cardboard recycling is compulsory, but plastics and other recyclable products frequently end up in the trash. Restaurants and bars do little or nothing to provide recycling facilities for customers, even though most of what is used to package salads, drinks and meals is non-biodegradable and recyclable. So until recycling is the law everywhere, for anything that can be reused, I’ll take my recycling to go.

Make Recycling the Norm, not the Exception

The idea to write about this occurred to me the other day when a colleague asked me why I always take my “garbage” home. I explained that when recycling facilities are not immediately available – at lunchtime, for example– I prefer to recycle this “garbage” later by using the alternative bins at my home.

I walked away and wondered if what I had said had made any impact. Others in my office and in my life have seen me carry out this practice on a number of occasions, but I have seen little or nothing to convince me I’ve made an impression.

The reward, for now, is that I am improving my efforts to help the environment by finding new and creative ways to live ‘green’. I have not given up hope that my examples will go noticed. Hopefully, as the green revolution continues to gain momentum, the thankless acts so many of us carry out on a daily basis will become the norm, rather than the exception.

As we know, every little bit counts. Sure, in the big picture, even if I achieve a zero carbon footprint, it won’t have a very noticeable impact. But as Abbey Hoffman once said, “change doesn’t come about through conformists.” By taking my “trash” home or to proper recycling facilities, I have turned the tide. I have challenged the notion that throwing away recyclables is ok.

So by carrying an extra bag in my backpack I am able to take home everything I use during a workday or a day out that can be recycled. Whether it’s a take-away lunch, a sit-down meal or a picnic in the park, nothing gets wrongfully put in the trash on my watch!

© bflo12, 2009

Thursday, October 8, 2009

Clouds Over Paris



In all types of weather, at any time of day, Paris never ceases to deliver charm and awe.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Three Short Answers

Today, like most days, I had to explain to someone why I was a vegetarian who eats mostly organic foods, why I didn't sit in front of the TV and why I was taking my "garbage" home.

My answers to these questions vary, depending on my mood, but here are my answers today, as I am in a gentle mood.

1. I don't want to eat meat and I don't really have to. By combining certain foods like beans and rice or beans with potato, create a complex protein very similar to that found in meat. The one thing missing is the iron. For that I load up on green vegetables like spinach, brocoli or asparagus. If not, I take a mutli-vitamin to make up for my lack of iron. Not to mention that the means by which humans kill animals for food is...well...I find it unsettling.

2. The average American sits in front of the TV roughly 6 hours a day! To paraphrase Tim Leary, " that means that the average American sits like a vegetoid slug in front of a screen absorbing loads of information......" For me, that's not the answer for someone who desires an authentic existence. A DVD once in a while is a nice way to unwind, but I just find more intersting ways to occupy my time.

3. I take my "garbage" home because it is not yet the law to force businesses, restaurants and bars to recycle. Until it is, I will coninue to take my recycling to-go!

Friday, September 25, 2009

Timeless Knowledge


"We cannot get rid of mankind's fleetingly evil wishes. We can get rid of the machines that make them come true." - Kurt Vonnegut

Song Of The Day - Something For Nothing - Rush



Since as long as I have been listening to Rush - some 20 odd years, this tune has always been and remains of of my favorites. It rocks, yes, but what has always stood out is the final verse - on it's own is brilliant, but a screaming Geddy Lee gives it the punch it deserves!

peace and Happy Friday


Words by neil peart, music by geddy lee

Waiting for the winds of change
To sweep the clouds away
Waiting for the rainbows end
To cast its gold your way
Countless ways
You pass the days

Waiting for someone to call
And turn your world around
Looking for an answer to
The question you have found
Looking for
An open door

You dont get something for nothing
You dont get freedom for free
You wont get wise
With the sleep still in your eyes
No matter what your dreams might be

What you own is your own kingdom
What you do is your own glory
What you love is your own power
What you live is your own story
In your head is the answer
Let it guide you along
Let your heart be the anchor
And the beat of your own song

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Springtime Memories

The morning began gently. The soft glow of the sun mixed with the leftover evening cool did much to lighten the mood. Spring could be smelled in the air, and felt throughout the body. People seemed lighter, less in a hurry; this was quite a welcomed change from the harshness that winter bestowed. It was a time to look forward, breathe the air of change, to float on the river’s current to destinations ever unfolding along the banks of life. The season of rebirth restores our strength, our spirit, our love – allowing us to become the blossom of our hopes, and our dreams.

It’s only human to want joy and happiness to consume our everyday.

"Those condensed moments of pure delight are truly magical. Desiring that all the time, I think, is natural. I guess what I've learned is sometimes, for sure, it's tough to see beauty in such an [often]"ugly" world. That's when I think we ought to close our eyes and peer within. Go back to those moments of joy and reflect on them and reconnect with, as Joseph Campbell would call, our bliss. It's always there; sometimes we just find it difficult to tap into it. So, as we dive inward - let us see through eyes of wisdom and strive with a soul of perseverance." - bflo

Saturday, July 25, 2009

Song of the Day - Billy Bragg - Waiting for the Great Leap Forward



In September of 2008 I had the pleasure of attending a very intimate show featuring Mr. Billy Bragg. He played the tiny La Maroquinerie in Paris' 20eme arrondissement. Having been a fan for some time, I was more than excited to see him perform. What I'll say about the show is this; it was arguably the most enjoyable concert I have ever been to.

It was a perfect night. Billy played an amazing show and created a wonderful connection with the 300 or so of us in the audience. He sang our favorites and shared for us a bit of his ideology about love, war, peace and life.

After the show he came up from the basement to the outdoor courtyard and mingled with those of us who wanted to continue the evening talking about our favorite moments of the show. He proved a humble, gracious man who, to me at least, really is his music. His songs are captivating, moving and timeless.

Here is a clip of Billy doing Waiting for the Great Leap Forward for a television show in Seattle. The intro for the show is a bit long, but this version gives you an honest look at what it's like to attend a show.

Enjoy!

Visit his site for information on his Summer 2009 tour dates. He will be playing across the US from 31 July to 05 October.

http://www.billybragg.co.uk/index.php


String Theory is a bluegrass band that is well-known in and around western New York.

Check out String Theory and have a listen to the band, read their latest news and find out about upcoming shows!

Friday, July 24, 2009

‘Making A Difference’ Through Technology


“Like the students they teach, I think educators learn best when the content is presented in an engaging way.”

Years ago I was involved in a discussion about the idea of “making a difference”. A debate began about how when someone performs a self-less act, like community work for example, that that was somehow extraordinary and hailed for making a difference, rather than being the norm. We ended the discussion by agreeing that our society is far from perfect, but if everyone attempted, at least once in their lives, to make a difference, things could improve.

I had an opportunity to sit down with someone who is doing just that. He is an Assitive Technology (A.T.) trainer with a mission – to help students in need by improving the use of technology in the classroom.

Christopher Bugaj is the host of the award winning podcast A.T.TIPScast which focuses on the implementation of assistive technology in public schools. As he prepares for his 3rd season of the podcast I sat down with him to talk about starting the podcast, its future, his audience and his future professional plans.

Why did you decide to put out a podcast?


About 7 years ago I was one of 5 people asked to create an assistive technology team for my school district. We were given an incredible amount of freedom from the administration to develop every aspect of the team including the policies, procedures, management, awareness and promotion. I found those first few years of "building" very exciting and some of the most rewarding experiences in my professional life. As time marched on, the team began moving upon its own momentum. So, the building aspect subsided.

I missed the feeling that accompanies the creating and building of something. During this time I was listening to a handful of podcasts during my commute to work each day. After a bit of research I found that there weren't many podcasts that centered on technology that could be used to help students having difficulties in school. There were educational technology podcasts and disability awareness podcasts but none specific to the topic of assistive technology in public schools. So I created the A.T.TIPScast, and now I have a project in which I’m building something and providing a resource for helping others.


How does your podcast inform your work, or, how does your work inform your podcast?


Really, the two overlap quite a bit. Although I make an effort to keep the time spent on each separate, the content in the podcast comes from my experiences of working in the field of special education. One of the principles that we adhere to when implementing technology in the classroom is to try to use the tools which are immediately available before looking to purchase additional tools.

Doing this is often less restrictive for the students and more effective and efficient than imposing something new. This principle influences the choice of content in each episode of the podcast. Almost every strategy, tool, or resource provided in the podcast centers around using some sort of technology that is already available in most educational settings.

For example, episode #39 of the A.T.TIPScast is about how to use the PhotoAlbum feature of PowerPoint to assist students. The MS Office Suite, including PowerPoint is something that most educators have access to.

Who is your target audience?

The target audience is any person who cares about a student or students in public education. The content in each episode is presented in such a way that any parent, educator, or future educator will learn ways to adapt and diversify the use of technology in instruction.

Do you know (roughly) how many listeners you have?

The host site http://www.cyberears.com provides statistics on the number of times each episode has been downloaded. One of the "learning experiences" I had was that on January 1st my first year of statistics were wiped clean. The statistics are only tabulated for one year. I didn't know this so I didn’t save that data.

I do have some information about the number of downloads prior to 01 January 2009, but the specifics are gone. What I find interesting about the specific statistics is the number of downloads to specific episodes. That is, it appears that many listeners to the show might listen, use, or share specific episodes based on the episode’s topic.

What Kind of feedback do you receive?


I have received quite a bit of feedback in the form of e-mails, Tweets (http://www.twitter.com/attipscast), messages via Facebook and face-to-face meetings at conferences.

A college professor has recently used the A.T.TIPScast as an assignment in his class. Students were asked to listen to episodes and then answer questions using the staff development booklets I created (http://bit.ly/attipscastsda). He provided me with the feedback from students as well. The feedback, in general, has been extremely positive and supportive. I plan to comprise all of this feedback into one "Listener Feedback" episode when I get a chance.

How do you come up with the subject matter for each episode?

The content for each episode comes from a variety of sources. I keep a list of running "ideas for future episodes" that I add to whenever I see a strategy, tool, or resource that looks like it might be useful.

There are certain strategies that I share with teachers in my job all of the time. According to them, these strategies have been very useful in helping students. I consider them "priority" strategies that I want to get out as soon as possible.

Some topics come from conferences I've attended. In an effort to break things up and to add some diversity to the show (so that the audience isn't just listening to me prattle in each episode) I try to include interviews when I can. Furthermore, I try to structure episodes in such a way that it might be entertaining to the audience. Like the students they teach, I think educators learn best when the content is presented in an engaging way. Therefore, I try unique ways of presenting the information.

How much work is put into one episode?

I would say that every minute of an episode equals roughly one hour worth of work. If you're listening to an episode that is six minutes in length then to outline the script, record the audio, edit the audio together, post the audio, promote that the episode was completed, and create a blog post takes approximately six hours. It takes a long time to complete an episode, but the more I do it, the easier (and faster) it becomes.

What are your future plans for you and the podcast?


Season 3 of the A.T.TIPScast is right around the corner. Currently there are two seasons, a total of 40 episodes. I hope to complete another 20 episodes in Season 3 including more interviews, guest hosts, additional bumpers, and more great tips for using technology to help students achieve in school.

As for me professionally, I was asked to co-author a book for the International Society for Technology in Education (www.iste.org) on the topic of building an assistive technology team to be available for pre-order in February of 2010. The title of the book is the The Practical (and fun) Guide to Assistive Technology in Public Schools: Building or Improving Your District's AT Team. There are many different questions that plague educators when it comes to assistive technology practice in public schools. This book provides answers to those questions in a fun and engaging way using analogies and humor. The book is written in a very similar style to the A.T.TIPScast, providing useful content in an entertaining way.


Christopher R. Bugaj, MA CCC-SLP earned his Bachelor of Science in Education at the State University of New York at Fredonia and earned his Masters of Arts in Speech Pathology at Kent State University.

Chris is the host of the A.T.TIPScast, an award-winning podcast on the implementation of assistive technology in public schools as well as the co-author of The Practical (and fun) Guide to Assistive Technology in Public Schools being published by the International Society for Technology in Education in February of 2010. Chris is an active member of the American Speech- Language-HearingAssociation and an adjunct professor at George Mason University.

He currently works as an assistive technology trainer for Loudoun County Public Schools in Northern Virginia and lives in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia with his wife and two children.

Connect with Chris!

Email: attipscast@gmail.com
Blog: www.attipscast.wordpress.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/attipscast
Facebook: A.T.TIPPERS Group

Friday, July 17, 2009

Song of the Day - The Go Betweens - Bye Bye Pride



The Go Betweens often go unnoticed and rarely get the credit they deserve outside of their cult-like following. Shortly before Grant passed away, he and Robert Forrester played a little jam session which they recorded and released on a DVD titled'That Striped Sunlight Sound'. Here is a sample of what they did. This clip shows the two really enjoying playing music together as if they were teenagers again. Bye Bye Pride is just one of many fantastic tunes from their extraordinary canon.

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Positive Peer Pressure from the European Union on Climate Change?


On 26 June 2009, the day the American Clean Energy and Security Act (ACES) of 2009 was narrowly approved by the House of Representatives, President Obama, standing next to German Chancellor Angela Merkel, openly admitted that the US lags behind Europe on climate change. Perhaps an understatement for those of us following the progress the European Union (EU) has made over the past few years. America's dawdling approach to tackling the climate crisis has forced others to step up to the challenge.

The world understands, just 6 months before the all-important UN climate change conference Dec. 7-18 in Copenhagen that real leadership in the fight against climate change must come, in part, from the United States. Yet even with the success of the ACES in the House of Representatives, the US must have, at least, a clear cap-and-trade law in place or else the chances for a global agreement in Copenhagen may collapse.

One hope is that Europe's strong commitment to the environment will act as an example for the US. Europe's go at it alone position in the fight against climate change may just act as the positive peer pressure the US needs to once again be a beacon of change in the world. As the world's second largest polluter behind China, the US has a responsibility to at least match the efforts of its European counterparts.

The 27-nation EU has agreed on what many are calling the 20-20-20 - a 20% cut in greenhouse gas emissions, a 20% improvement in energy efficiency and 20% of energy to come from renewable sources, all by 2020. They have even upped the ante by indicating that it would raise its own targets for emissions cuts from 20% to 30% if other developing nations sign on.

That remains a big 'if'. In the US, the ACES must still meet the agreement of the Senate. Although this is likely to happen, the bill remains imperfect. Many environmentalists argue that the bill's aim to cut green house gases by 17% below the level in 2005 by 2020, is not only less than initially promised, but simply not enough in the face of such a crisis.

Even the EU's bold initiatives are not enough if they must continue to go at it alone. Their pledge to raise their already ambitious target to 30% if others sign on is a clear indication that the EU, not only means business, but that they clearly perceive this in less abstract terms than others around the globe.

Europe's decisions demonstrate their leadership and commitment in facilitating an agreement in Copenhagen. Many in the EU, citizens and politicians alike, understand that time is not on our side. Thus it is time for the United States to close the partisan divide on this issue and lay out clear initiatives like the EU.

As the President of the European commission recently stated, "Developed countries have a special responsibility to take the lead" on climate change. This may have been a plea to the US to pursue a global cooperative effort to prepare a better, cleaner world for future generations.

image taken from: www.greenprophet.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/09/g

Paris’s Sustainable Museum of Modern Architecture


From every corner of the globe, an estimated 8 million visitors flock to Paris every year to marvel at architectural wonders such as Notre Dame, the Louvre museum or the world-famous Eiffel Tower. Yet, few tourists extend their cultural visit to take in what is frequently referred to as "the world's museum of modern architecture" - La Défense - Europe's largest business district.

This Manhattan-like area in the west of Paris is divided into 12 sectors and covers an area over 400 acres. It is the home to the city's Grande Arche and the tallest high-rise buildings which house over 1,500 businesses and 150, 000 employees.

In an attempt to stay competitive with rival European cities such as London and Milan, a revival project for La Défense was begun in 2006. The project focuses on regenerating outdated skyscrapers, the construction of new buildings, ensuring a better balance between offices and residential housing and improving the commute for employees to and from their place of work. The target for the development of the area extends to 2015.

On the list of priorities for the modernisation of the area, is a commitment from the organisation responsible for the project; Etablissement Public d’amènagement de la Défense (EPAD) to incorporate sustainable guidelines into the design of the new buildings. The planned projects respect the latest environmental standards put in place by the EU and will prove more economical and more environmentally friendly.

Construction green lights were granted for several key 300-320 metre (980 to 1,000 ft) tall ‘sustainable’ skyscrapers such as Tour Generali, Tour First, Tour Phare and the Tour Signal, designed by award-winning French architect Jean Nouvel. These architectural giants could pave the way for greener, more sustainable design standards in the building construction and business centres in Europe and further afield. The ambitious plans for La Défense could be the example others will emulate in future, maybe even Manhattan?

60% more energy-efficient than a conventional skyscraper

The 312-metre high Tour Generali, proposed by the Generali Insurance Company, for example, aims to emit just 500 tonnes of CO2 per year, 70% less than a conventional tower. It will recover and recycle rainwater and will be equipped with 400m² of photovoltaic cells, 800m² of solar panels and 18 axial wind turbines on site to produce energy. Overall, it will be 60% more energy-efficient than a conventional skyscraper.

The Tour Phare is a planned 300-metre-tall skyscraper designed as a green building. The curvature of the tower will allow for a bouquet of wind turbines to be installed on the roof. According to its designer Tom Mayne, it will be "a prototype for a green building" with a wind farm generating its own heating and cooling for five months of the year.

The Tour First, one of the many reconstruction projects, will be the first in France to obtain the standard High Environmental Quality (HQE). It will utilise the exterior air circulation and the heat from the sun for heating and cooling of the building. Its bioclimatique façade, made up of double-glazed windows will help to maintain a moderate interior temperature, which will further reduce the buildings dependence on traditional heating and cooling.

The Tour Signal will become the symbol of the modernisation of La Défense. This 301-metre-tall structure, through a combination of solar panels, wind turbines and mirrors integrated with windows, according to Jean Nouvel, should not exceed 50 kWh per square meter per year of energy consumption.

We have created a way of life that is dependent on economically healthy business. As our businesses continue to flourish, it is our responsibility to ensure business practices work in concert with our attempt to improve the quality of our environment. These buildings provide a few examples of what could and should become the global trend in construction. One of the pillars of sustainable development is the conservation of natural resources. At the very least, these projects aim to do that, and more.


image taken from: www.linternaute.com/.../la-defense-2015/1.shtml
"I think the environment should be put in the category of our national security. Defense of our resources is just as important as defense abroad. Otherwise what is there to defend?" ~Robert Redford, Yosemite National Park dedication, 1985

Thursday, July 9, 2009

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN:



Translation:

"As long as there is money in the world, there will never be enough for everyone" - Anonymous

Monday, July 6, 2009

"It's pretty clear now that what looked like it might have been some kind of counterculture is, in reality, just the plain old chaos of undifferentiated weirdness."
Jerry Garcia

Sunday, July 5, 2009

"Never pretend to a love which you do not actually feel, for love is not ours to command."
Alan Watts

Saturday, July 4, 2009

Song of the Day: 4th of July Edition - Woody Guthrie - This land is Your Land



From California to the New York Island
From the Redwood Forest to the Gulf Stream waters
This land was made for you and me.

As I went walking that ribbon of highway
I saw above me that endless skyway
I saw below me that golden valley
This land was made for you and me.

I roamed and I rambled and I followed my footsteps
To the sparkling sands of her diamond deserts
While all around me a voice was sounding
Saying this land was made for you and me.

When the sun came shining, and I was strolling
And the wheat fields waving and the dust clouds rolling
A voice was chanting, As the fog was lifting,
This land was made for you and me.

This land is your land, this land is my land
From California to the New York Island
From the Redwood Forest to the Gulf Stream waters
This land was made for you and me.


Rather than propagate a false mythology, This Land is Your Land branishes America's physical beauty and enduring spirit of freedom. It speaks of an America that is at the heart of my American dream - one full of hope and peace, warmth and equality.

Happy 4th of July.

Thursday, July 2, 2009

Vive le mois d'août



The bright morning sun shone directly down the middle of Rue de Rivoli and into my eyes turning oncoming pedestrians in to moving silhouettes.

Distracted by the blue summer sky, framed in the remnants of Haussmann, I barely noticed the noise of garbage trucks, car horns and the typical clamour of big city hustle and bustle.

Spring has finally given way to summer and that light feeling that accompanies thoughts of vacation, the end of school or lazing the day away on a sidewalk terrace enjoying un demi (25cl draft beer). For Parisians, native or transplants, it is a special time of year.

Today marks the start of les grandes vacances – the official start of the French school summer holidays. Many children will burst through the school doors today rejoicing at the arrival of holiday time. This is not only a special time for French families and their children, it is also special for those of us ‘visitors’ working and living in Paris. At a slow but steady pace, Paris will empty out. Parisians will pack up their things and leave the city and in a sense, hand the city over to the tourists for the summer months. On French radio, regular traffic updates for the juilletistes (July holiday-makers) and aoûtiens (August holiday-makers) indicate that perhaps Paris is the best place to be in August. All the traffic jams and crowds have moved south!

Not only is parking practically free in Paris at this time, but the traffic wardens turn a blind eye to any illegal parking – or perhaps they too are on holiday! If your favourite restaurants haven't closed for the summer months, this is the time to get that sought-after table or simply find a place to sit in the likes of Place des Vosges or Les Jardins de Luxembourg. Even riding the Metro at 6 pm can be relatively painless! You can also spend a day at Paris Plage, the hugely successful man-made beach set up along the banks of the Seine or take a picnic to Parc de la Villette for free open-air cinema.

August offers a different kind of Parisian experience to the expat, one without the Parisians. Locals who are here in August - and many choose to stay - appreciate the drop in stress levels and welcome the change of ambiance. Vive le mois d’août!

Photo taken from: http://www.douglas.stebila.ca/pictures/2003/paris/ and used under the conditions posted at www.creativecommons.org

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

"At the height of laughter, the universe is flung into a kaleidoscope of new possibilities."
Jean Houston, PhD.

Song of the "Happy Canada" Day - Last American Exit - The Tragically Hip



Today is Canada Day, formerly known as Dominion Day, so I'd like to wish my former neighbors from the North a happy Canada Day. I'm not Canadian, I'm a Buffalonian and growing up in Buffalo, NY, there was very little that separated us from our Ontario cousins. We love hockey, Canadian Lager, donuts and understand all too well long, freezing-cold winters. A friend of mine used to say that the only difference between a Buffalonian and a Canadian from Ontario was that while the Canadians use the expression "eh?”, a Buffalonian would say "huh?". If you pay attention, more often than not, he’s right.

Canada - "Going to the game, eh?"
Buffalo - "Going to the game, huh?"

and so on!

Today's SOTD features The Tragically Hip, arguably Canada’s most successful rock band. Taken from their self-titled EP, “Last American Exit” lends itself to life on the road, and the return home. In the video it appears that they exit from Detroit, Michigan, but before ever seeing the video I thought (or hoped) he was perhaps singing about Buffalo, since from one or two directions, it would be the last exit.

Video taken from youtube.com, originally posted by The Tragically Hip

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

A Comment on Paul Krugman's NYT OP-ED - Betraying the Planet

In his latest OP-ED for the New York Times, Paul Krugman equates climate change denial to a form of treason against the planet. I couldn’t agree more. I would also add that it is a betrayal against reasonable discourse.

As new facts and research continue to sound the alarm, many in the US, including some of our elected representatives, have chosen to blindly deny that something needs to be done about the excess of greenhouse gases. This, agreeing with Mr. Krugman, is betrayal - not only against the planet but against civilization itself.

As Krugman points out, rejecting a claim based on informed opinion and critical reflection is “acting responsibly”. Yet, establishing an opposing position on the subject because you dislike the “political and policy implications of climate change” is both dishonest and immoral. It becomes even more so, when facts and research results are misrepresented to “feed the denial”.

Climate change denial requires the rejection of hard science and factual data. It also requires fallacious and nonsensical arguments to support such denial. This results in a betrayal of logic, and attacks the very foundation of rational discourse intended to find the common ground necessary to begin solving such a real and serious problem.

Those among us, including our representatives, should be held accountable for such acts of “treason”. The position of a policy maker is not a privilege, but rather a duty – a duty that requires living up to the expectations of the polis – that our policy makers will be honest, forthright, educated and will put the interests of humanity above self-interest and political affiliation.

As Krugman asks, “How can anyone justify failing to act”. I can’t find a reason, can you?

Paul Krugman is a professor of Economics and International Affairs at Princeton University and OP-ED columnist for the New York Times. In his article he writes:

“To fully appreciate the irresponsibility and immorality of climate-change denial, you need to know about the grim turn taken by the latest climate research.

The fact is that the planet is changing faster than even pessimists expected: ice caps are shrinking, arid zones spreading, at a terrifying rate. And according to a number of recent studies, catastrophe — a rise in temperature so large as to be almost unthinkable — can no longer be considered a mere possibility. It is, instead, the most likely outcome if we continue along our present course”. Read more at: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/29/opinion/29krugman.html
"Agreeing on values is one of the most difficult things about being human. Agreeing that there are none, however, is impossible."
-Peter Marston, PhD. Califiornia State University, Northridge

Song of the Day - Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor - mvt. 3



I've always been a music lover. This is probably apparent by my insistence on the Song of the Day portion of this blog. I've always enjoyed finding a reason, no matter how loosely related, to associate a song to a moment, or a day.

This selection was easy. A very close friend of mine, one of the closest, mentioned it to me on the phone this morning. To this friend I owe a debt of gratitude for heightening my appreciation for the art of music. It was this friend that let me know that it was ok to like anything, that within every piece of music, the potential to discover something genuine or pleasing is always present, we just have to open ourselves to it.

This is the friend who recommends Rachmaninoff on a random Tuesday, and has at least a decade of cassette-tape recordings, mostly from the 80s, of Kasey Kasem’s Top 40. Talk about varied taste!

In his own words, Piano Concerto No. 2 (and No.3) is another place, perhaps even another time. After listening to it this morning, I think he was referring to that “swept away” feeling we sometimes experience from a truly special piece of music.

Video originally posted on youtube.com by mariocast.

Monday, June 29, 2009

Song of the Day: Paul Simon - Slip Slidin' Away



The memory attached to this song is riding shotgun in my Mom's rusty Toyota Corolla wagon (a late 70s model) listening to the AM radio. We were very often together, going here or there, doing this and that. I don’t think I had started kindergarten yet, because I remember, while my sisters were at school, I was Mom’s sidekick for the errands of the day. This tune stands out as the soundtrack to these isolated moments. Although the song is quite melancholic, these memories of driving around with my mother as a young boy are happy ones.

Video originally posted on youtube.com by alexbarlw
“It is not the years in your life but the life in your years that counts.”
Adlai E. Stevenson

This is one of my favorite quotes. I often say it to people on their birthday who are having a difficult time accepting their age. Today I am 35, so I've said it to myself. Who we choose to be and how we choose to live are the building blocks of happiness.

Saturday, June 27, 2009

"Eternity is a mere moment, just long enough for a joke."
Hermann Hesse
Swiss (German-born) author (1877 - 1962)

Friday, June 26, 2009

"A purpose of human life, no matter who is controlling it, is to love whoever is around to be loved."
Kurt Vonnegut, Sirens of Titan
US novelist (1922 - 2007)

Song of the Day: Human Nature - Tribute to Michael Jackson (1959 – 2009)



Michael Jackson died yesterday in California. Artist of Thriller, the best-selling album of all time and winner of countless awards including 18 Grammies, the King of Pop left us prematurely at the age of 50 as he prepared to stage a comeback tour in the UK.

For many of us who were alive and dancing in the early and mid-eighties, we will remember how his music played a central role in our lives. Who can forget those inimitable dance moves and high-pitched notes that left us all spellbound? Albums like “Off The Wall” or “Thriller” and songs like Billy Jean, Rock with Me and of course Beat It, still contain the magic that changed the musical landscape forever 25 years ago and will undoubtedly continue to leave a mark on future generations.

Music is such a wonderful part about being human. Music has the ability to touch us deeply, attach itself to our memories and live on well after the artist has gone. It is a perfect accompaniment to the celebration of life. In the same way as Elvis or Marliyn, Michael Jackson's legend will live on and continue to touch us. Hard to Beat It!

Youtube video produced and originally posted by prshmack31

Thursday, June 25, 2009

Song of the Day: SMOKIE - If You Think You Know How To Love Me (1975)



Originally posted on youtube.com by nyrainbow4

The Best Known Secret in Le Marais


Nestled in the Marais district of Paris on the Rue de Vieille du Temple is an atmospheric gem that inspires a return of the romanticism that has for so long defined the city of lights.

Frequented by the discerning and especially wine lovers, la Belle Hortense is a 19th-century style café housed in a literary motif that combines fine wine, literature and art to create a true Parisian ambience.

The café, named after the playful novel by Jacques Roubaud, features a wonderful selection of regional wines that can be ordered by the glass or bottle, or purchased to take away. Along with your wine, enjoy some delicious French cheese and charcuterie available upon request from the sister restaurant across the street, and sometimes offered by the gracious staff.

Inside this warm and friendly establishment, where the music blends gently into the background, you can relax at the bar or retreat to the back room to sit comfortably on a sofa and peruse the artwork decorating the walls and the large selection of books from a variety of genres. Most of the books are in French, but among them, you will find a small and interesting selection of books in English.

La Belle Hortense also plays host to exhibitions usually by inspiring young artists, book signings, lectures and round-table discussions.

For people who enjoy relishing in the romantic idealism of Paris through ambience, wine and location, La Belle Hortense will most certainly not disappoint.

La Belle Hortense, 31 rue Vieille du Temple, 75003 Métro Line 1: Saint-Paul.

Tel : 01 48 04 71 60. Open daily from 17:00 to 02:00.