Phil's Blog

Canada Day Road Trip, 2025, Day 10

2025-07-29T14:26:00.000-07:00

Canada Day Road Trip, 2025,

Day 10, Disembarkation Day

All things have to come to an end, After a two night stay at Shady past, it was time to board the Sodalite Pincess for the final leg of my voyage. We made a few stops along the way including River Rising, Mine Town Burger and Fries, and a grocery store.

The Gardens at River Rising

Stopping for Friend Fries at Mine Town Burger and Fries, Madoc, ON

Cruising over the Trent Severn Waterway, Gamebridge, ON

On Hwy 12, there are 3 railway crossings that cross the CN Line. Hut!

Making our descent into Barrie, Ontario. Make sure your seats and tray tables are in the upright postilion in preparation for landing.

Now Arriving in Barrie!

Conclusion

This was a great trip and I would like to say thank you to Captain Jodi of the Sodalite Princess for doing the bulk of the driving. Everyone at the Praxis Project really appropriated having me as a volunteer during the Solar Sessions Festival. I look forward to visiting New Brunswick in the future.

I was recommend to attend Danse De La Tortue in Quebec while I was at the Praxis Project.

I look forward to my next adventure, The Bancroft Rockhound Gemboree!

Scan and show your support!

Page Index

Day 1 - Embarkation Day

Day 2 - Cruising to New Brunswick

Day 8 - The Voyage back to Ontario

Canada Day Road Trip, 2025, Day 8

2025-07-24T07:09:00.000-07:00

Canada Day Road Trip, 2025

Day 8, The Voyage Back to Ontario

The voyage back to Ontario started the evening before with a scenic cruise by the Historical Heartland Bridge, the Worlds longest Covered Bridge. I saw the bridge from the Hugh John Fleming Bridge.

After driving for an hour, The Sodalite Princess made a food stop at a Subway in Perth-Andover

Highway Hypnosis, Driving the 401 of Quebec

The Overnight drive was a pretty boring ride, trying get rest as the drivers, Jodi and Angel tag-teamed the drive into Quebec. As the drivers gotten tired, hitting the rumble strip in a construction zone, it was time to take a 45 minuet rest stop.

Dawn of the day onboard the Sodalite Princess


As the sun rises, it was time for the morning food Stop at	A&W

The Tesla plant in Montreal

Highway signs upon approach of the Samuel-De Champlain Bridge

Crossing the Samuel-De Champlain Bridge

A photo for those Transit Enthusiasts, Montreal Transit Bus

Now Leaving Quebec

Welcome home, Ontario!

Tesla Cars on an Auto Carrier

Passing through Ottawa, ON

The Renfrew Armouries

Scary Mask, Gnawed posing at a Re-fuelling stop in Renfrew

The Sodalite Princess has arrives at Home Port, Shady Past

I was lucky to have a two night stay at Shady Past with an excursion to a chip truck in Maple Leaf, ON

I got to meet this dog at Barron's Food Truck

My adventure will continue as my journey back to Barrie where I disembark on this amazing journey.

Page Index

Day 1 - Embarkation Day

Day 2 - Cruising to New Brunswick

Day 10 - Disembarkation Day

Canada Day Road Trip, 2025, Day 2

2025-07-19T12:49:00.000-07:00

The Canada Day Road Trip, 2025

This was my first big road trip on land since my grandfather past away in 1998. I took several road trips to the USA. This trip was my first cross Canada road trip to New Brunswick.

Day 2 - Cruising to New Brunswick

At the crack of dawn, the Sodalite Princess was loaded and ready for departure.

As the sun rises, the fog billows over the hills

The Sun rises as the Sodalite Princess sails into Arnprior, ON

First Stop Over and Refuelling Break, Country Style, Arnprior, ON

The 417 is the main connector highway that connects Ottawa with Montreal

Scenic Crusing, Lake of Two Mountains

Cruising through Montreal, Lots of bridges. A throw back to driving in the states with my grandfather

The Notre-Dame-de-Grace Tunnel, Montreal, QC

Crossing the Champlain Bridge, Montreal, QC. David Cronenberg's Shivers was filmed on Nuns Island in 1975

A railway crossing with Blinking Red Lights A20, the 401 of Quebec

Scenic Crusing the St Lawrence Low Lands on A 20

Now Arriving in New Brunswick

Book a night at Rodeway INN

Perth-Andover Water Tower

Approaching the Perth-Anderover Bridge

Crossing the St John River in Perth-Andover

Driving on some back roads in New Brunswick

Arrived at the Praxis Project for a six night stay

The Praxis Project is an organic food forest and farm in South Knowlsville, NB

The Praxis Portal is the hub where you will find out what is happening

Day 3 - 7, Volunteering and enjoying my time at the Praxis Project. I did not take any photos as I was wanted to live the moment and spend some quality time off the screen and with good people. At the end of Day 7, we decided to embark on our overnight voyage back to Ontario.

Scenic Cruising the World's longest Covered Bridge

The Historic Heartland Covered Bridge, Taken from Hugh John Fleming Bridge

Taking a trip to the Historic Heartland Covered Bridge may be planned for a future trip to New Brunswick

Page Index

Day 1 - Embarkation Day

Day 8 - The Voyage Back to Ontario

Day 10 - Disembarkation Day

Canada Day, Road Trip, 2025

2025-07-17T05:37:00.000-07:00

The Canada Day Road Trip, 2025

I was very lucky to travel with Jodi to New Brunswick to volunteer at the Solar Sessions at the Praxis Project in South Knowlesville, New Brunswick.

Day 1 - Embarkation Day

I embarked on my Journey at the Go Station and travelled to Peterbourgh Ontario via Union Station. I met up with my driver, Jodi in Peterbourgh at the bus and embarked on my journey.

Rolling into Peterbourgh, Ontario on Go Transit


Some Scenic Cruising from Peterborgh to Bancroft

Making a quick pit stop at River Rising, Madoc, Ontario

River Rising features a lush organic food garden

Arriving at Shady Past, a future food forest project

Jodi's SUV, The Sodalite Princess.

Overnight Stay at Shady Past, Bancroft, Ontario followed by an early morning departure for New Brunswick

Day 2 - Cruising

At the crack of dawn, the Sodalite Princess was loaded for a full day of cruising the highways of Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick.

Page Index

Day 2 - Cruising to New Brunswick

Day 8 - The Voyage Back to Ontario

Day 10 - Disembarkation Day

The Lazer Show

2025-02-10T07:52:00.000-08:00

Freaky Stuff in your Bedroom

The Lazer Show

As a child with autism, I was fascinated and frightened of the light and shadow patterns that are projected onto the wall by passing cars. At night I wanted to sleep with the curtains open to allow the some light from driveway light into the room. When the curtains were closed, the room will be pitch black and the driveway light will project a small crack of light at the top of the wall. In 1990, I wanted to sleep with a night light to reduce the fears of the dark.


A small crack of light shines from the driveway light when the bedroom curtains are closed

In 1991, I started calling the shadows that are projected on the walls "Lazers." In the mid to 90's I transitioned to sleeping in the dark and watched the lazers from passing cars.

What is a Lazer?

A Lazer is created when a car drives by your house at night time. The high beams from the car will pass through the window and project a shadow pattern on your wall. As the car passes by the house, the patterns will move in the opposite direction across your walls. As the lazer reaches the centre of the room, it may grow, or shrink.

How Do I know when a Lazer will appear on my wall?

I would notice the light shining into my bedroom window and hear the car approaching the house. If I do not want to see a freaky Lazer, I would cover my eye under the bed covers until the car passes.

Types of Lazers

Big

The Big Lazer is the easiest lazers to project onto your walls. All you need is an uncovered window. The bigger the window, the better!

The Big Lazer is simply allowing the car's headlights to shine through an uncovered window.

Bob Bo

The Bob Bo lazer is created by covering your window, leaving an inch gap on the side of the window to allow the car high beam to pass.

Bob Bo is a simple vertical line lazer.

Joes's

The Joe's Lazer is created by closing the venetian blinds and allowing the light to pass through the slats.

Joe's Lazer is a simple Venetian blind lazer. (Newklages Lighting)

Gong

The Gong is created by closing your curtains and leaving an inverted triangular gap at the centre of the window. I had re-occuring nightmares about this lazer after seeing it several times in bed back in the late 80's. This is why I was scared to sleep with the curtains closed.

The H Light

The H light requires multiple windows to project. This lazer features the scary Gong in the centre and two Bob Bo lasers on either side. Cover the centre of the window and leave the sides uncovered. More windows, the better. Make sure you have curtains on all the windows.

The H Light is a comination of Bob Bo and Gong, Multiple windows are required.

Other Effects

Mirrors

The reflection of the mirror will bounce the Lazer across the room. I like to say the lazer is falling apart. I discovered this Lazer effect in a condo in Orlando Florida Try it for yourself

A mirror's reflection will bounce light across the room

Lazers in Dreams

The Gong Dream

After seeing the Gong Lazer, I had a dream where I was in my room and I was watching a big lazer move across the wall. As the lazer is continues along its path, Suddenly the big lazer transforms into a Gong lazer. I also heard the word GONG in the sound of a car motor and I freaked out. I jumped out of bed and opened all the curtains as fast as I could!

Dreams of Recent Years

In the last 10 years, I started to have dreams about the Lazers I saw when I lived on Kennedy Road. These dreams would be a mixture of seeing the freaky Gong lazer and and the Bob Bo.

Reference List

Figure (1)- The B Movie, photo from New Klages Lighting, http://newklages.com/NKI_LetSunShineIn.htm

Holidays With Grandpa Page 4

2025-02-08T13:27:00.000-08:00

Holidays with Grandpa

During the mid summer of 1995, me, my brother Ed, and Grandpa took a road to Chattanooga Tennessee.

Ruby Falls Brochure, Quasi Interesting

The Chattanooga Tennessee Road Trip

It was the summer of 1995, my grandfather was not sleeping very well and got tired very quick. I had to make several stops during this road trip including an overnight stop in Wapakoneta, Ohio.

When I got to Chattanooga Tennessee, I did not stay at the same hotel for the entire duration of the trip. Each day I had to pack up and change motels. Each day we did some driving around Lookout Mountain and I remember stopping at a cave opening on Route US hwy 72 for a few minutes to for a quick pit stop. Me and my brother went inside the opening and there was not much to see inside. Most of sight seeing was primarly driving from place to place. due to my grandfather's lack of sleep, we did not get visit the key attaractions, Ruby Falls and Rock City.

Kings Lodge Post Card. A former motel on East Ridge

After checking into the Kings Lodge and doing a load of laundry, I wanted to go for an afternoon drive through the Bachman Tunnel. After going through the tunnel, I stopped at a K-Mart store and discovered a crazy playground. This playground features a castle like play structure with swings and slides.


Pioneer Frontier Park, a fancy playground in Chattanooga Tennessee

After playing for 20 minutes, my grandfather honks the horn to call me back to the truck as it's time to go. As we were leaving the park, my grandfather said "That's the best playground yet!" We returned to the motel via the Bachman Tunnel and called it a day.

The Drive Home

The decision was made that we decided to go home because my grandfather has not been sleeping well. Once on the highway, I realized I forgotten my sleeping bag at the motel. My grandfather was willing to take me back to the motel and retrieve my sleeping bag from the room. I had to make several pit stops along the way because my grandfather gotten tired. One of the stops included an overnight stop in Wapakoneta, Ohio at some random motel off Interstate 75.

The Infinity Tunnel, Neil Armstrong Museum, Dayton Daily News

The next morning, my grandfather took me to the Neil Armstrong Air and Space Museum. I remember the infinity tunnel between the Metorite Exhibit and the Astro Theatre. I was intrigued because of all the lights and the infinite reflection.

Michigan Hwy 10 has two tunnels. Alps Roads

This Highway takes you to the Tunnel to Canada. Missed out on cheap gas! Alps Roads

After visiting the museum, it was time to hit the highway and head back to Canada. I wanted to take the Tunnel back to Canada. The highway I took my grandfather on in Detroit MI had a couple of short tunnels. Taking that highway made us miss the gas station and liquor store My grandfather wanted to get gas since it was cheaper in the USA. After a few more stops, We made it back home.

Conclusion

This was my last major road trip into the USA with my grandfather before getting a truck camper. I have made a few more shot trips into Niagara Falls, NY

Page Index

Holidays With Grandpa Page 1, 1986 - 1991

Holidays With Grandpa Page 2, 1991 - 1992

Holidays With Grandpa Page 3, 1992 - 1995

Return to Phil's Adventures and Holidays

Photo References

Highway Tunnel on M-10, Alps Roads, https://www.alpsroads.net/roads/mi/m-10/

Pioneer Frontier Park, East Ridge News Online, https://www.eastridgenewsonline.com/town-center-proposed-mcbrien-site/

The Infinity Tunnel, Neil Armstrong Museum, Dayton Daily News, https://www.daytondailynews.com/news/wapakoneta-museum-celebrates-neil-armstrong-most-famous-trip/qSOdRR3pfmvlLJZOgrHMMP/

Ruby Falls Brochure, Quasi Interesting, http://quasi-interestingparaphernaliainc.blogspot.com/2008/02/ruby-falls-brochure.html

Camping With Grandpa, Page 4, 1997, The Terry Trailer Year

2025-02-05T18:05:00.000-08:00

Camping With Grandpa, 1997

The Terry Trailer Year

This is similar to my grandfather's trailer

In 1997, my grandfather sold the truck camper on Auto Trader and bought a used Terry Travel Trailer on Mt Albert Side Road. The trailer was fixed up by spring and ready to go. I went to Grand Island KOA Kampground, Layzee Acre Campground, and Hilbilly Campground.

William Stewart and Daughters Family Camp (Sun Retreats, Blue Mountain), Thornbury, Ontario

This was the first trailer park that I picked to take the Terry Trailer on it's first voyage. We were thinking about going to Jell-E-Bean Park in Wasage Beach or a campground in Thornbury, ON. I decided to go to the campground in Thornbury because of what they offered. The facilities included the playground and a small rec hall inside a school portable. There was daily activities including Karaoke, and Bingo. I remember winning a few games of bingo at this campground.

Layzee Acres Campground,

Layzee Acres Campground is located in Sebright, Ontario. This campground was pretty large. This campground featured a tr I stayed there with my grandfather for a weekend. Layzee Acres did not have a whole lot to do besides playing in the playground.

Niagara Falls KOA Kampground, Grand Island. May and June 1997

KOA Train Depot, The Private Gate to Fantasy Island

I went Grand Island three times in 1997. I thought the adjacent amusement park, Martin's Fantasy Island would be open that I could hop the train and spend a few hours. When I was there in the spring, the amusement park was not open for the season yet. I got to do the usual window shopping excursions to Military Road Wal Mart, K Mart, and Hills Department Store. I liked going to Wal Mart and Hills because the staff wear Clip On Name Tags.

Hillbilly Campground, Gravenhurst

The Daily Hillbilly Tour, Roots RV

For the month of July and August, my grandfather booked a seasonal site at Camp Hillbilly in Gravenhurst. This campground featured a rec hall, pool, daily wagon ride, nature trails, and the camp store. During the day, I listened to the truck radio, walked around the grounds, played on the swings, played Bingo every Monday evening. On the Canada Day weekend, there was a dance in the rec hall. I did not get to do as many camping trips in August, 1997 because my grandfather sold the home in Queensville and moved to Alcona Beach. I did one more camping trip to Camp Hillbilly before taking the trailer to Grand Island, NY for a few days.

Return to Niagara Falls, KOA Kampground, Grand Island, NY Labour Day Weekend

Flying Bobs, I rode this ride several times, Fantasy Island Memories

This was the best visit to Grand Island KOA Kampground because Martin's Fantasy Island was OPEN! On first day, I hopped the train and spent the afternoon riding the rides at Fantasy Island (Niagara Amusement Park). This is the only campground that has its own private entrance to a theme park. I rode on the Flying Bobs, the gondola wheel, Crazy Bus, Scrambler, Tilt-A-Whirl, Sea Ray, the Antique Cars, the Carousel, and the train.

Conclusion

1997 was a great year because the Terry Trailer was large and spacious. When we did any excursions to town, the trailer can be left at the campsite. The trailer was less time consuming when it came to hooking and unhooking from the truck. During this season, I got to play bingo and win a few games and lose too. I got to take a ride on the 407 for the first time and rumble stripping with the trailer hooked up. 1997 has been a busy summer because my grandfather sold the home and found a smaller home in Innisfil. My grandfather sadly past away in January 1998.

Page Index

Camping With Grandpa, Getting the Camper

Camping With Grandpa, 1995

Camping With Grandpa, 1996

Return to Phil's Adventures and Holidays

Photo Refrences

Flying Bobs at Martin's Fantasy Island, Memories of Fantasy Island Facebook Page, https://www.facebook.com/FantasyIslandMemories/

Camp Hillbilly Wagon Ride, Roots RV Camp Hillbilly, https://www.rootsrv.ca/camphillbilly

Camping With Grandpa, Page 3, 1996

2025-02-04T17:03:00.000-08:00

Camping With Grandpa, 1996

High Falls, A perfect place for Camper Special! discovermuskoka.ca

This was the first full season of camping with my grandfather in the truck camper. I travelled to various camp grounds in central Ontario and Leweston, NY. During this summer adventure, I started to obsess about name tags after staying at a KOA Kampground.

Canada Day Weekend, Return to Gravenhurst KOA Kampground

On the first long weekend of summer, I got to return to the Gravenhurst KOA Kampground for a few days before my brother heads off to Cadet Camp at Blackdown. During my stay, I liked playing on the swings since they are quite unique. The Swingsets were custom built out of 20 foot poles instead of poles. The swings were attached to the cross beam at one point and you can spin 360 degrees in mid air. In the evenings, there were activities including Bingo and movies in the barn. I remember watching The Wizard of Oz on the Big TV.

Parry Sound KOA Kampground

Perry Sound KOA Office and Store

This weekend was just me and Grandpa, My brother went to BACSTC Blackdown for 3 weeks to take Basic Band. I had the top bunk to myself for this trip. Parry Sound KOA did not have as much to do there. I found something to do there. I walked the nature trails, jumped on the trampoline, and played on the swings. During my stay at Perry Sound. I took a road trip into Perry Sound and climbed the fire tower.

Islandview Trailer Park and Balsam Lake Provincial Park

Islandview Trailer Park, Coboconk Chamber of Commerce

It was the second weekend without my brother, this time we took the truck camper east. The destination was Kwartha Lakes and stayed in two different camp grounds. The first campground we picked was Islandview Trailer Park. Islandview is a small trailer park south of Coboconk, Ontario. This was the smallest campgrounds I stayed at. There was not much to do besides play on the swings or talk to the staff. The Facilities included a playground and a small rec hall with two video games and a broken pinball machine.

I agreed with my grandfather and said that Islandview Trailer park had very little to do. We decided to move the camper to Balsam Lake Provincial Park for a night. This stay I remember going to a store on the park's edge. This store had a few video games including a unique Breakout/Arkanoid game.

Labour Day Weekend at Gravenhurst KOA Kampground

As School was coming around the corner, it was time for one more trip to Gravenhurst KOA. This KOA trip included the usual excursion to High Falls for Camper Special and a road trip to Dorset, Ontario. I remember climbing the Dorset Lookout Tower and visiting the General Store. One evening I attended a Karaoke for the first time on the Big TV in the Iconic Barn.

Niagara Falls North KOA Kampground

An End of Summer Trip to Niagara Falls North, Niagarafallsusa.com

To wrap up the summer, we decided to take the truck camper to the USA. This was exciting since It was the first time taking the camper over the border. Before making our way to camp, we went window shopping at Wal-Mart, K Mart, Hills, and Tops Friendly Market. The campground was tree covered and plenty of shade. The amenities included a playground, where I spent a lot of time during my stay.

Selling The Camper, Buying a Name Tag at the Flea Market

A Name Tag Engraver, with computer. Similar to the one at the 400 Market

We realized that having a truck camper was too much work loading it on and off the truck after each trip. In October, 1996 My grandfather attempted to sell the camper in an auction at the 400 Flea Market. I got to spend an entire day walking the 400 Flea Market and stumbled upon an engraving vendor in a booth in the northwest corner of the market. I talked to the guy in the booth and asked to have a name tag with my name engraved. He offered to make two tags for 5 Bucks! One name tag was orange and white and the second was red and white.

With no success, the truck camper did not sell at the 400 Flea Market Fall Auction, my grandfather attempted to sell the camper at Pollard's Auction Barn. To no avail, the camper did not sell. My grandfather listed the camper on the Auto Trader and than it sold.

Conclusion

1996 was a great summer of camping at several campgrounds. One campground was a dud, and the rest were great. I loved Gravenhurst KOA the best because it had an amazing swing set, the barn had a variety of video games, and having Camper Special at High Falls. One memory is going for an early morning ride in the camper's top bunk to High Falls.

Page Index

Camping With Grandpa, Getting the Camper

Camping With Grandpa, 1995

Camping With Grandpa, 1997, The Terry Trailer Year

Return to Phil's Adventures and Holidays

Photo References

Gravograph VXM, https://inkoovintagecomputing.wordpress.com/2018/01/31/gravograph-vxm/

High Falls, Discover Muskoka, https://www.discovermuskoka.ca/listings/high-falls-and-little-high-falls-216/

Islandview Trailer Park Sign, Coboconk Norland Chamber of Commerce, https://www.coboconknorland.ca/directory/islandview-trailer-park

Niagara Falls North KOA Kampground photo, https://www.niagarafallsusa.com/directory/niagara-falls-north-lewiston-koa/

Parry Sound KOA Office and Store, Trip Advisor, https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Hotel_Review-g181742-d5040370-Reviews-Parry_Sound_KOA-Parry_Sound_Northeastern_Ontario_Ontario.html

Camping With Grandpa Page 2, 1995

2025-02-02T17:33:00.000-08:00

Camping With Grandpa, Page 2

After the the truck camper was fixed and ready to go, It was time to mount the camper onto the back of the pick up truck and hit the road.

Gravenhurst KOA Kampground, Labour Day Weekend

Gravenhurst KOA Kampground office and barn, South Muskoka Doppler

For this first camping trip, we were unsure what to expect for campgrounds. I picked out a campground from the Camping Magazine. The Gravenhurst KOA Kampground was a good park to give camping a try. This campground featured its iconic barn, Kamping Kabins, Free Mini Golf, two pools, and a walking trail through the woods.

The arcade inside the iconic barn, campingontario.ca

The Iconic Barn was home to an arcade, laundry facilities, and a meeting space in the loft. During the summer, events including movies, bingo, or functions may be held in the loft.

After the trip to KOA Kampground, me and my grandfather took a road trip to Gamebridge for a round of mini golf, watch the boats pass through the locks and have ice cream.

Balsam Lake Provincial Park

In Mid September, 1995, me, Ed, and Grandpa decided to go to Balsam Lake Provincial Park for a night. Balsam Lake is a provincial park on Balsam Lake close to Kirkfield, Ontario. During my stay at Balsam Lake, I went to the playground and walked the nature trails.

Bonnie Lake Campground (Bonnie Lake Resort)

Bonnie Lake,

After school on a friday evening, we decided to go to Bonnie Lake Campground in Bracebridge, Ontario. This trip was memorable because we arrived at the campground after dark and the office was closed. We drove into the grounds and found a vacant site to park for the night. After settling in for the evening, me and Ed played a travel size edition of Monolopy Jr in the top bunk of the camper before calling the night. The next day, I decided to ride my bike along Bonnie Lake Road and discovered Stephenson Road 1 Bridge.

Stephenson Road 1 Bridge, historic bridges.org

I climbed down to the river bank and found some empty beer bottles under the bridge deck and than I biked to camp. I remember that Bonnie Lake Campground had the largest bench swing in the playground. This swing could seat at least 3 people.

Conclusion

The 1995 Camping season was quite short since we did not get the until mid to late August, 1995. The memories of the 1995 season included Grandpa's famous Camper special. The Camper Special included fried eggs and toast. The breakfast was cooked either on a campfire or propane stove. In 1996 I had a full adventure of Truck Camping ahead along with two weeks at Cadet Camp.

Page Index

Camping With Grandpa, Getting the Camper

Camping With Grandpa, 1996

Camping With Grandpa, 1997, the Terry Trailer Year

Return to Phil's Adventures and Holidays

Photo References

Gravenhurst KOA Marks 50 Years, https://southmuskoka.doppleronline.ca/in-challenging-times-koa-gravenhurst-marks-50-years/

Camping in Muskoka, https://www.campinginontario.ca/CampinginMuskoka#prettyPhoto

Stephenson Road 1 Bridge Photo, https://historicbridges.org/bridges/browser/?bridgebrowser=ontario/stephensonroad1bridge/

Camping with Grandpa, Page 1, Getting the Camper

2025-02-01T18:37:00.000-08:00

Camping With Grandpa

Looking for a Truck Camper

As the cost of staying in hotels stated to increase, my grandfather decided to get a truck camper in 1995. Me and my grandfather looked at several truck campers around central Ontario. I looked at one camper in Sharon, but it looked too old and worn out. After looking at that first camper, My grandfather picked up a copy of Auto Trader Magazine to look for a truck camper. The first camper we went to was in a trailer park in Orr Lake. Upon arrival in Orr Lake, The camper was sold to another group of people.

The second truck camper was located in Minden, Ontario. The drive was quite a lengthily drive since Minden is off the beaten path and I never been to Minden until My grandfather decided to look at the a camper there. The journey to Minden was quite unique since there were lots of rocks on Highway 35. There was one high rock cut north of Norland that caught my eye.

This is the Highest rock cut on Highway 35

The Camper in Minden was a typical 15 foot truck camper with a double bed on the top of the cab. The camper had a vintage love meter plaque on the cab bunk. We decided not to take this camper because it looked old.

Me and my grandfather finally locked on a truck camper on Highway 48 in Ballantre, Ontario. This camper featured a fold out bunk. We had to work hard to detach the frame from the camper in order to get it onto the pick up truck. Once we got the camper home, it was parked in the garage for further fixing before it was taken out on it's first voyage to Gravenhurst KOA Kampground on Labour Day weekend.


This is a similar camper that my grandfather bought

Page Index

Camping With Grandpa, 1995

Camping With Grandpa, 1996

Camping With Grandpa, 1997, The Terry Trailer Year

Return to Phil's Adventures and Holidays

Photo References

Rock Cut Photo, Miners Bay Rock Cut, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:35_Rock_cut_at_Miners_Bay.png

Truck Camper photo was borrowed from The Bicentennial Camper Truck, https://grassrootsmotorsports.com/forum/build-projects-and-project-cars/the-bicentennial-camper-truck-1976-chevy-c20-camper-special-sycamore-camper/127565/page1/

Pet the Fur 2024

2025-02-01T17:05:00.000-08:00

Fur Photos of 2024

This is a selection of photos from my Pet The Fur Facebook page from 2024

A small dog visiting the Well, Taken on December 2023

David's Disco Cat

Horses on the pasture at Dog Tails

A Two Headed Ram

A House Mouse

Ecko, The Haunt Dog, lounging on the sofa in the camper

Ecko with her head on the dashboard

An Injured Chipmunk on the sofa inside the camper

Hey fur lovers, do not forget to like Pet the Fur's Facebook Page

Page Index

Pet The fur, 2022 Collection

Pet The Fur 2023 Collection

Pet the Fur, 2023

2024-04-09T06:58:00.000-07:00

PET THE FUR

Best of Fur, 2023

Here is a selection of dog and cat photos I taken through the year 2023.

Hey Fur lovers, join the Pet the Fur Facebook Group


Pokey, She loves to Bark!

A white Great Pyreness dressed up as a fireman at Ray Twinny Rec Centre

Dogs at Music Festivals

Cat peeking through the rail at Fisher's Paradise

This Golden Retriever loves riding in the car

Gertie loves riding in the Big FORD Truck

Page Index

Pet the fur, 2022 Collection

Pet the Fur 2024 Collection

Pet The Fur, 2022

2023-05-27T15:05:00.003-07:00

Pet The Fur, 2022

Fur is the world’s best invention. Fur has been invented to be petted by humans, pet’s companion. People with special needs may need that tactile sensation of fur as a means of comfort. There are two types of fur, coarse and soft fur. Most people prefer to pet the soft fur.

The Best of Pet the Fur, 2022

Here is a selection of photos from The Pet The Fur Facebook Page

Page Index

Pet the Fur, 2023 Collection

Pet The fur, 2024 Collection

Alexa Play....

2023-05-22T10:52:00.036-07:00

Alexa Play....

Alexa will play your Background Music in the home of a Halloween Haunter. Here is my listing of songs that I like to listen to at Haunt Headquarters. If someone is sleeping where Alexa is, I cannot ask her to play music until the company wakes up.

What should I ask Alexa to play when I visit friend's houses if Alexa lives there?

Alexa Playing at Haunt Headquarters

Here is a listing of songs that I would ask Alexa to play

Alexa Play, Tokyo Daylight by Lo FI Lia

If you ask Alexa to play "Tokyo Daylight", she will default to play Tokyo Daylight from Persona 5 by Lo Fi Lia

Alexa Play, Tokyo Daylight (Live Ver.) by Lyn Inaizumi

Tokyo Daylight is the theme of going around town, dong errands on a nice sunny and clear day. Recommended song for shopping days. My home haunt is located in Newmarket / East Gwillimbury

Alexa Play, Daredevil by Lyn Inaizumi

This song is from Persona 5 Strikers. I will ask Alexa to play it for exciting events including haunt openings, SOLD OUT nights at the haunt, haunt trade shows and conferences, and haunt tours

Alexa Play, Life Will Change by Lyn Inaizumi

This song is from Persona 5 and Persona 5 Strikers. I will ask Alexa to play this song for events including haunt closings, haunt trade show closing events, final haunt of on haunt tours.

Alexa Play, Send Me an Angel by Real Life

I will ask Alexa to play this song as we get ready for a Haunt work day. Building Halloween Haunts takes lots of time and energy. I heard this song in a dream over the winter 2021 - 22.

Alexa Play, Granite by Pendulum

This song's opening sounds similar to the castle theme of Super Mario World for the SNES. I discovered in 2016.

Alexa Play, All my People by Sasha Lopez

I discovered this song on railway crossing compilation video on Youtube

Alexa Play, After 5 Clash by Toshiki Kadomatsu

I wish Alexa knows other Toshiki Kadmatsu songs. If we are at a haunt convention including Transworld Halloween Attractions Show, we will need a new soundtrack including daylight, events, haunt tours, etc. Tokyo Daylight is for daytime actives around Newmarket.

Alexa Play Fast Car by Mokka Music.

This song has a similar feel to Life Will Change by Lyn Inaizumi from Persona 5. I will ask Alexa to play this song when we are getting ready to go to the haunt if the haunt is sold out.

Unfortunately Fast Car is not on Amazon Music. We will download it to our music phones.

Alexa Play, Red Dragon by Swollen Members. (Hip Hop)

I discovered this song when I asked Alexa to play Fast Car Mokka Music and she put this song on since she cannot locate Fast Car. Haunters approve the song.

Alexa Play Star Fire by Corey Wong

Alexa Play Follow the Light by Cory Wong and Dirty Loops

Alexa play Ring of Saturn by Cory Wong and Dirty Loops

This is an action song. I will ask Alexa to play this song for action events at the haunt including battles, axe throwing, etc. Haunters say this song sounds like Soul Finger by the Bar-Kays.

Alexa Play Soul Fingers by the Bar-Kays

Alexa Play, Muladhara by Gill Studio

Alexa Play, There For Me by Marsh. I discovered this song in a car ride in Toronto. This song is a theme for doing errands in a large city.

Alexa Play Orisha Original Mix by Mode Apart

Alexa Play, Old School Hip Hop,

I may ask Alexa to play Old School Hip Hop since Ontario Haunters enjoy Old School Hip Hop. Hip Hop is popular music for a social setting for all occasions including Taco Tuesday, Birthday Parties, etc.

Haunted House Songs on Alexa

Alexa Play, Under the Big Top By Midnight Syndicate. Murdermore the Clown's Theme. If you are VFX fans, VFX makes The Famous Puppets from Hauntland

Alexa Play, Fallen Grandeur by Midnight Syndicate. This track is Mortimer Ghost's theme.

Alexa Play, Dr. Atmore's Elixirs of Good Humour and Fortification by Midnight Syndicate. This is Psycho The Clown's theme. Get your Psycho The Clown Puppet at VFX Creates!

Alexa Play, The Host of Seraphim by The Dead Can Dance. This is the theme music for the haunt, Dominion of the Dead at Knotts Scary Farm.

Alexa play, They're Here by Danny Elfman, (Goosebumps Soundtrack) This song is the theme to the Dark Ride Haunt at Knots Scary Farm. This haunt has moved to Canada's Wonderland for the 2023 Haunt Season

Alexa Play, Time Feel so Sleep. A Halloween Recordian song I discovered on a Youtube Video.

Alexa Play, Tomb Stone Circus by Brandon Fiechter

Annoying songs on Alexa

Alexa Play, Wash Your Face In Your Sink by Dream Warriors

This is one of the most overplayed songs on Alexa in 2021 - 2022 by one of our friends of the haunt.

Alexa Play, Skylab by The Monks

This song's only word is Skylab. When my haunt friend asked Alexa to play this song, I asked Alexa to define Skylab. I associated this song with the USA's first Space Station.

Other Songs I would ask Alexa to play if it's in her library

Sentimento by Vexentio

Nostalgia by Aesura

Sorry I cannot find it, Here is Fever (feat. Orangecore) by 
Aesura and Orangecore

Who Am I Without You by Dimatis

Nordic Shine by Savvun

The Clearing by Golden Anchor

Caught in Treason by Sage Oursler

Musica para Pelicula de Miedo by Relaxing Music

The Throne is Mine! by Ruiqi Zhao

Bipolar by Dex Arson

Fractured Paintings by Trevor Kowalski

Skullclub by The Glitch Mob

9000 Miles by Pendulum

A lick and a Promise by Splasher

On the March by Brandon Moeller

Dream Tower by Caspro 

Rockabye (Feat Sean Paul and Ann Marie) by Clean Bandit

Mavrick by Ooyy

The Peak 1.1 by Darwin

Bye Bye Bridges, Memories of Overpasses on the highways and biways of Ontario

2021-06-05T11:23:00.003-07:00

Bye Bye Bridges

Memories of Overpasses On the Highways and Biways of Ontario

The first bridge on the 400 that was replaced was Highway 7 in 1989 - 1990.

Bridges in Barrie, Ontario

Anne Street Bridge in Barrie, June 5, 2021

Anne Street Bridge being shut down, Barrie Today, May 3, 2021

The Anne Street Bridge will be closing in June, 2021 to be replaced as the 400 is widened over the next 18 months. We say Bye Bye to this Bridge. On June 5, 2021 the highway 400 was closed and the demolition of the bridge took place overnight


The Anne Street Bridge on June 5, 2021.

On June 6, 2021, What is left after the bridge was demolished is only piles of dirt and construction equipment is what remains left after the highway re-opened.

two piles of dirt sit where the bridge was, taken June 6

June 2, 2022, Two long years Anne Street was without a bridge, The finishing touches on the overpass and the bridge is set to open, Hello New Bridge.

Duckworth Street, June 2016

Duckworth Street Bridge, Barrie Advance, 2016

The Duckworth Street 2 lane tunnel officially closed on June 24th at 10 PM prior to demolition. At 5 AM on June 17th we say bye bye to the Duckworth Street Tunnel.

Dunlop Street Bridge

The Bridge has not at fate yet

Sunnidale Road

The bridge is set to close on June 5, 2023 for the Sunnidale Road Transmission Watermain upgrade followed by a bridge replacement.

Bayfield Street

The bridge is not at fate yet.

Reference Section

Anne Street Bridge being shut down, Barrie Today, May 3, 2021, https://www.barrietoday.com/local-news/anne-st-bridge-being-shut-down-for-18-months-for-demolition-replacement-5-photos-3745980

Duckworth Street Bridge, Barrie Advance, Feb 5, 2016, https://www.simcoe.com/news-story/6265706-barrie-s-duckworth-street-closed-feb-9-to-12/

Barrie's Anne Street Bridge, https://www.simcoe.com/news/update-barries-anne-street-bridge-over-hwy-400-has-opened-but-motorists-might-not-be/article_2f2ee41b-065c-5a2d-ae73-7c0f11ac63b8.html

Memories of Freedom Fest, A 3 Day Camping, Music, and Cannabis Festival

2021-02-25T07:26:00.002-08:00

Freedom Fest

In 1999, Ink Fetish and The Sacred Earth organized a 3 day camping music and cannabis festival in the Barrie area. I found about Freedom Fest after seeing a flyer being distributed downtown Barrie in 2001. Places I saw flyers being distributed including 360 Clothing,

2002, I contacted Gaynor, the owner of Ink Fetish Tattoo Shop and organizer of Freedom Fest after 2002 flyer was distributed around downtown Barrie. I went to Ink Fetish Tattoo Shop and promptly purchased my ticket and chatted up a storm about the event. Once I had the ticket in hand, they ogranized a ride up to the site the night before and excited to be out of my fathers trailer for a few days, my first vacation on my own before I started college.

In 2003, I attended the Fifth Annual Freedom Fest at the Hideaway in Moonstone, Ontario. I promptly went to Ink Fetish and bought my ticket and organized my ride. The festival had its largest line-up including a series finale of the Ebombs Squad, Evil Bill and many more.

I would like to thank Rachel Rose for providing the photos of the Freedom Fest Flyers. Keep your ears to the tracks as more photos get shared via the Facebook.

The end of the BUD, 1994 - 1996

2017-12-03T13:26:00.000-08:00

Memories of the BUD Part 3,

A sad ending of the DISH

All the free channels started to fall silent as they switched to subscription channels. Occasionally some subscription channels will turn on their sound for a trial and than falls silent once again.

FOX

The Remaining free to air channels after Sci Fi Channel fell silent were on satellite F 1. The primary channel I watched was FOX, TV shows I watched included Power Rangers, and VR Troopers.

Other TV shows I watched with my grandfather included Real Stories of the Highway Patrol, COPS, America's Most Wanted, The Simpsons, and Code 3.

Lady Frankenstein, 1971 Film

In March 1995, I stumbled upon the movie Lady Frankenstein on an adult oriented channel. Since I realized it was a movie I wanted to see, I popped a tape into the VCR and hit record.

Recorded on a VHS in
March 1995

Other TV shows I saw on the BUD included NBC's Dateline, Ancient Prophecies (A stomach churner, Thinking the world is going to end),

The Learning Channel.

This was one of my favorite channels to watch occasionally. I saw shows such as Ancient Journeys, Ancient World, Ancient Warriors, Trauma Life in the ER, and The Operation. The Operation was a TV Show about surgical procedures including knees to eyes.

The Latter days of the BUD.

In 1995 - 1996 my grandfather decided to ditch the BUD because the dish's motor broke down. In order to keep the dish in position, I had to wedge a piece of wood into the ground. There were many free feeds that can be viewed on many of the open channels. I could watch promos or see a tv show before it gets released.

One last channel I stumbled upon a classical / opera music channel. This channel played a combination of music videos, opera, and animations. Unfortunatly, I do not recall the name of this music channel. One music video I truly remember on this channel was "Glitter to Be Gay" from Candide.

Memories of Being a Theatre Volunteer, Page 3

2016-12-09T06:33:00.001-08:00

More Great Memories of Being a volunteer at the Theatre

2013, A Year to be Crazy for You

2013 is the year to walk The Nine Mile Portage, See Romeo and Juliet, Go Crazy For You,and William Shakespeare and friends told Robert Munsch Stories to the children in Munsch Ado About Nothing.

My 2013 volunteer journey started at Heritage Park for the performance of Romeo And Juliet, 50's style. This production was set in the 1950's most of the cast had their own miniature car to drive on and off stage. The main set piece was an antique gas pump which was featured in the 2007 production of Pump Boys and Dinettes.

Romeo (Ryan Bommarito) arrives in style!

Photo Credit to Jennifer Klementii

Moments to remember from Romeo And Juliet, There was a scene where everyone is dancing to Let's all Go to the Hop. Micheal Rawley also paid a visit to Barrie for the performance. Part way through the run, The Pump Boys Shell Gas Pump disappeared from the set and replaced by a garbage barrel.

Let's go to the Hop!

Photo Credit to Jennifer Klementii

Iv'e got the Rhythm and Music in Theatre By the Bay's Main Company production of Crazy For You. The songs from this performance will be stuck in your head as you singing them as you walk out of the theatre. I retained my usual duty of handing out programs and letting people know that food and drink is not permitted in the auditorium.

This performance had some great moments. I loved the Act 1 Finale because there was so much to cheer for. You will never forget that moment when someone pulls out a hammer and starts banging the steps.

Rhythmic interlude in Iv'e Got Rhythm

In Act 2, there was a line to memorize. I've got Rhythem I've got Music, I've got such a head ache. I watched this performance 13 times.

the children enjoyed 5 great Robert Munsch stories on stage in Munsch Ado About Nothing

2014, Year of the Angels

In June, 2014 the angels made an appearance before Theatre By The Bay brought the City of Angels into the Mady.

This season I volunteered and saw 4 performances including The 9 Mile Portage, Macbeth, City of Angels, and the Three Munschkateers.

Filmmaker Stine working on his film, City of Angels

Membrable lines from City of Angels

"If you are not Celabate, we could raise a Helibut"

"Greatest Performances of a husband in the Dark"

2015, The year to Like It

More Memories of being a Theatre Volunteer

2016-07-18T13:43:00.001-07:00

More Memories of being a Theatre Volunteer

2010

In 2010, the Downtown Community Theatre has closed for demolition and construction of the Mady Centre For the Performing Arts was underway. Theatre By the Bay housed their productions of Taming of The Shrew and Aladdin and Jasmine's Summer Adventure in the Grand Theatre.

A photo op with a character from Taming of the Shrew

I continued my duties of handing out programs as audience members file into the theatre prior to the performances and sell rings at the kids show.

The Magic Carpet

Great moments of 2010 included hugging Micheal Rawley, and a photo opportunity with a character from Taming of the Shrew.

2011

William Shakespeare Bobble Head

There was high hopes for the Mady Centre for the Performing Arts to be complete for Theatre By The Bay's 2011 season. Robert Joy from CSI NY had the role of Prospero in The Tempest. Due construction delays at the Mady, Theatre By The Bay had to relocate The Tempest and Treasure Island, the Pirate Musical to the Georgian Theatre. Treasure Island was remounted to celebrate the Theatre By the Bay's 10th anniversary. I continued on with my duties of handing out the programs and selling the rings.

Evil Dead the Musical's Kristan Brunn returned to
play as Stephano in the Tempest

Memories of this season included meeting Robert Joy and hugging Micheal Rawley.

Hugging Micheal Rawley at The Tempest.

Whatever happened to the Peter Pan costume? In June, 2011, I was informed that the Peter Pan costume will be given to me. After searching the treasury, Peter Pan Costume has vanished into the Great Costume Void.

The Mady Centre for the Performing Arts was built and officially opened on September 10, 2011.

2012

The Mady Centre was finally built and Theatre By the Bay has a new home. The 2012 season was the only season that had a theme, Great Stories well Told. Theater By the Bay had three performances over the course of the summer. I saw Man of La Mancha 8 times and wanted to see it a few more times and I could not get into the theatre due to sell outs. The same cast also performed The Mary Wives of Windsor on altarnate days.

The Young Company performed Jacob Two Two Meets the Hooded Fang.

Hugging Micheal Rawley after watching Jacob Two Two

Memories of the 2012 season, I got to hug Micheal Rawley several times throughout the rehearsal period and helped on the construction and the painting of a two storey set. Great songs of this season included The Impossible Dream, Dulcinea, We're Only Thinking of Him, from Man of La Mancha. Child Power from Jacob Two Two meets the Hooded Fang. In one performance of Man of La Mancha, Micheal Rawley approached me while singing We're Only Thinking of Him. I did not know that he did that for me until after the performance.

Click Here and Read about 2007, A season to Pump and Dine

Click here and Read about 2013, A season to be Crazy for You.

Memories of being a volunteer at the Theatre

2016-07-17T17:29:00.003-07:00

Great Memories of Being a Volunteer at The Theatre

2007

In 2007, I wanted to become involved with the local theatre after watching Evil Dead the Musical for the second time. I got in touch with Theatre By the Bay, a professional theatre company in Barrie, Ontario. My primary duty at the theatre was to hand out programs as people proceed into the theatre prior the the performance. The first show I saw for free was Pump Boys and Dinettes. On My first shift, I volunteered and watched Sleeping Beauty's Summer Adventure. I watched both of theses performaces several times.

Memorable line from Sleeping Beauty's Summer Adventure, "Sleep Country Canada, Why buy a mattress anywhere else. In this production, audience members were pulled from the audience to hold brief cases in a Deal or No Deal sketch.

2008

In July 2008, I was exposed to Shakespeare for the first time, I greeted people and watched A Midsummer's Night Dream at Heritage Park. In August, I continued my duties of handing out programs at performances of Glorious, The World's Worst Singer and Cinderella's Summer Adventure. I got the duty of selling the rings at kid's performances.

This is a design I made with the rings

Memorable Line from Glorious, That's a man's Chair

2009

Theatre By the Bay has finally had its first production inside the Barrie Downtown Community Theatre, 1 Dunlop Street West. I was very excited because a former cast member from Evil Dead The Musical, Kristan Brunn Played the role of Malvolio in Twelfth Night. I got to spend plenty of time talking to him about my memories from Evil Dead the Musical. I also met up with Micheal Rawley.

Music Is The Food of Life

I fell in love with Peter Pan and Tinkerbell's Summer Adventure Because it was the first time seeing Peter Pan in the theatre. I got the duty of selling rings and halos before and after the performances.

A moment from Peter Pan and Tinkerbell's Summer Adventure, The whole audience got to participate in the Chicken Dance.

After the performance closed, I asked a friend at Theatre By the Bay about the Peter Pan costume because was a great costume to wear out.

Click and continue reading about 2010, A season to Tame a Shrew.

Hut! The Myrtle Beach, SC Story

2016-04-19T18:37:00.002-07:00

Hut! The Myrtle Beach Story

In 1989, I wanted to go to Myrtle Beach for March Break. In the weeks leading up to March Break, Mrs Booth gave me a travel brochure for Ocean Park Resort In 1989, my relatives took me to Niagara falls for two nights.

When I returned from school after March Break, Mrs Booth brought her photo album from her trip to Myrtle Beach, there were tones of pictures including the tunnels. When I saw the tunnel picture for the first time, I thought it was an alternate route to Niagara Falls.

In the late fall or early winter of 1989, My grandfather asked me where would I like to go for March Break, I said, Myrtle Beach. He said OK. I was so happy to take the trip. I saw many bridges including the Burlington Skyway, the Peace Bridge, and other great bridges I never crossed. I Passed through the East River Mountain and Big Walker Mountain Tunnels.

In Myrtle Beach, my grandfather took me to a railway track that is not too far from Intercoastel Waterway Drawbridge

Intercoastal Waterway Drawbridge, Bridgehunter.com,
https://bridgehunter.com/sc/horry/bh42594/

My grandfather took a picture of me beside the Railway crossing gate. I climbed onto an ACL locomotive while my grandfather shot the picture.

Hut!

Top 108 Songs from Energy FM, 1995

2015-03-30T10:11:00.004-07:00

The Top 108 songs from Energy FM, 1995

Top Track for 1994 I like to move it - REEL 2 REAL
Top Track for 1993 Mr Vain - CULTURE BEAT
Top Track for 1992 Rhythm is a dancer - SNAP

  1  Fat boy - MAX-A-MILLION [1]
  2  Touch the sky - CARTOUCHE [1]
  3  In my dreams - DARKNESS [1]
  4  Fantasy - MARIAH CAREY [1]
  5  Macarena - LOS DEL MAR [1]
  6  Baby Baby - CORONA [1]
  7  Sunshine after the rain - BERRI [1]
  8  Everybody on the floor - TOKYO GHETTO PUSSY [1]
  9  Gangsta's Paradise - COOLIO [1]
 10  Stayin' alive - N-TRANCE [1]
 11  Memories - NETZWERK [1], This is a Grade 7 Favorite
 12  Be my lover - LA BOUCHE [1]
 13  Closer - LIBRA [1]
 14  Rhythm of love - DJ COMPANY [3]
 15  Dance til you cannot dance - ALTER EGO [1]
 16  You & I - JK [1]
 17  Another day - WHIGFIELD [3]
 18  The bomb! - BUCKETHEADS [4]
 19  Feel the vibe - AFRIKA BAMBAATA [1]
 20  Scatman - SCATMAN JOHN [3]
 21  This is how we do it - MONTELL JORDAN [2]
 22  Machine gun - PARTY NATION [4]
 23  Do you know? - BLACK AND WHITE [3]
 24  Creep - TLC [3]
 25  Waterfalls - TLC [2]
 26  Right type of mood - HERBIE [4]
 27  Magic Carpet Ride - MIGHTY DUB CATS [3]
 28  Tell me that you love me - CAROL MEDINA [2]
 29  You'll see - MADONNA [4]
 30  Headbone connected - DAISY DEE [3]
 31  Inside out - CULTURE BEAT [2]
 32  Think of you - WHIGFIELD [3]
 33  Angel - JAM & SPOON [3]
 34  Total Eclipse of the heart - NIKI FRENCH
 35  One sweet day - MARIAH CAREY & BOYZ II MEN
 36  Everybody wants to be somebody - RUFFNECK
 37  Eye hate u - PRINCE (the artist formerly known as)
 38  Lick it - ROULA
 39  That's the way you do it - PURPLE KINGS
 40  Every time you touch me - MOBY
 41  Don't give me your life - ALEX PARTY
 42  Can you feel it? - MATRIX
 43  Baby - BRANDY
 44  Your loving arms - BILLIE RAY MARTIN
 45  Miracles - CARTOUCHE
 46  I dream of you tonight - TABOO
 47  Try me out - CORONA
 48  Don't take it personally - MONICA
 49  Red light special - TLC
 50  Flying to the moon - EMJAY
 51  I wish - SKEE-LO
 52  Boom Boom Boom - OUTHERE BROTHERS
 53  C'mon and get your love - REAL McCOY
 54  It's a beautiful life - ACE OF BASE
 55  Take a bow - MADONNA
 56  Love is all around - DJ BOBO
 57  Thank you - BOYZ II MEN
 58  Wrap me up - ALEX PARTY
 59  Tripping on sunshine - PIZZAMAN
 60  I wanna be with u - FUN FACTORY
 61  Dear mama - 2PAC
 62  Take you time - MAX-A-MILLION
 63  Boombastic - SHAGGY
 64  Cotton Eye Joe - REDNEX
 65  Missing - EVERYTHING BUT THE GIRL
 66  Secret Fantasy - CAROL MEDINA
 67  El Triburon - PROYECTO UNO
 68  Big time (Carlito's Dream) - THAT KID
 69  Charms - PHILSOPHER KINGS
 70  Runaway - JANET JACKSON
 71  Shy guy - DIANA KING
 72  I believe - HAPPY CLAPPERS
 73  It's a rainy day - ICE MC, This song was a Grade 6 favorite
 74  He's mine - MOKENSTEF
 75  Dreamer - LIVING JOY
 76  Human Nature - MADONNA
 77  La la la hey hey hey - OUTHERE BROTHERS
 78  Generation of love - MASTERBOY
 79  Take control - BKS

 80  Higher state of Consciousness - WINK, This track freaked me out in 1995 because of the time stretch

 81  If you still love me - STEVIE B
 82  Can't have you - CAPTAIN HOLLYWOOD PROJECT
 83  Scream - MICHAEL & JANET JACKSON
 84  One more chance - NOTORIOUS BIG
 85  Summer is magic - PLAYAHITTY
 86  Set u free - PLANET SOUL
 87  On bended knee - BOYZ II MEN
 88  Promise me - LIL SUZY
 89  Square Dance song - BKS
 90  There is a star - PHARAO
 91  Tell me - GROOVE THEORY
 92  Exhale - WHITNEY
 93  Witkh Doktor - ARMAND VAN HELDON
 94  1-2-3 - PLAYAHITTY
 95  Water runs dry - BOYZ II MEN
 96  Sour times - PORTISHEAD
 97  Melody - BLACK ROSE
 98  Dreams - 2 BROTHERS ON THE 4TH FLOOR
 99  Come into my life - JLM
100  Move it to the rhythm - TECHNOTRONIC
101  I show you secrets - PHARAO
102  You're not alone - MICHAEL JACKSON
103  Sexual healing - MAX-A-MILLION
104  What hope have I? - SPHINX
105  Fairground - SIMPLY RED
106  Getaway - SHAUNA DAVIS
107  Sentimental - DEBRAOH COX
108  Pick it up - HERBIE

Dance Music Memories from the Elementary School Days

2015-03-30T10:05:00.013-07:00

The music of my elementary school days was great because this music was so memorable to hear on the radio. There were great songs like Jump Around, by The House of Pain, or Gonna Make you Sweat (Every Dance Now). I will tell you the songs by Grade Number.

Grade II (1990 - 1991)

In Grade II, my brother moved in with my Grandfather in March 1991. Every night, he will sleep with the radio on and I hear very intersting music. I searched for the station until my brother put it on for me. The station was AM 640 The Hog. These are the songs of that year.

Crazy, Seal (You will never Know)

Everybody Dance Now, C + C Music Factory

Everybody's Free (Feel Good), Rozalla

Finally, CeCe Peniston

Good Vibrations, Marky Mark and Funky Bunch, 1991

Unbelievable - EMF

Grade III (1991 - 1992)

In 1991 - 1992, There was great music on AM 640 and this was the year that the station's name changed to The New Beat of Toronto.

3 AM Eternal, KLF, (1991)

B.I.N.G.O, The Movement, (1992)

Chorus, Erasure, (1991), I heard this song on AM 640 in the over the summer of 1991 after my grandfather bought me the video game Mega Man 3. The song Chorus reminded me of the Spark Man stage theme.

Get Ready For This, 2 Unlimited (1991)

I Don't Need Yo Kiss, Love and Sas (1991)

I Wanna Sex You Up, Color Me Badd, (1991) When I heard this song for the first time, I was dreaming about my trip to Nickelodeon Studios. During the dream, I was with my class in a room within Nickelodeon Studios and than we were supposed to stand for O Canada. Once the music started, than I woke up and realized it was my radio playing "I wanna Sex You Up"

James Brown is Dead, LA Style -- (1991, 1992)

Humpin' Around, Bobby Brown (1992)

(I Wanna Give You) Devotion, Nomad Feat, MC Mikee Freedom (1991)

It's My Life, Dr Alban (1992)

Jump Around, House of Pain (1992)

Justified and Ancient / Mu Mu Land (Stand by the Jams), KLF (Tammy Yvnette) (1991)

Living in Ecstasy, BKS, (1992). There are two versions of this song. The version I heard for the first time on AM 640 was the CHR Rave Mix. The house Mix Version was released on the Much Dance Mix 1993.

Laid So Low, (Tears Roll Down), Tears for Fears (1992), This song was one of my favorites in the summer of 1992. I had an obsession with Dr. Willy from Mega Man after watching Captain N on the Family Channel.

Twlight Zone, 2 Unlimited (1992)

What Time Is Love, KLF, (1991)

In the Summer of 1992, AM 640 the New Beat of Toronto had a Live to Air every Tuesday night in the summertime. I heard some interesting tracks during this live-to-air broadcast from some night club called The Factory.

Flyer for The Factory, AM 640 Live Broadcast, Tuesdays

Grade IV (1992 - 1993)

In the fall of 1992, AM 640 the New Beat of Toronto had a second Live to Air known as Mix Friday's at the Mix Nightclub. This nightclub was located at 1325 Eglington Ave. Some of the songs listed below were played at this club.

Get with U, Lidell Townsell & M.T.F (1992). In the summer of 1992, I heard this song on AM 640 and the sound of the cowbell reminded me of the movement of a conveyer belt. I also remember hearing this song while I was sleeping in by brother's room and I magically woke up in my own bedroom. Was I sleep walking?

I'm in Love with You, BKS, (1992)

I will Always Love You, Whitney Houston (1992)

Mr Vain, Culture Beat (1993)

No Limits, 2 Unlimited, 1993

Plastic Dreams, Jaydee (1993)

Rhythem is a Dancer, Snap (1992)

Sesame's Treat, Smart E 's (1992)

Sweet Lullaby, Deep Forest (1992), I heard the Round the World Mix on AM 640 in the fall of 1992 during a Live to Air at the Mix Nightclub.

Take me in your Arms, Lil Suzy (1992)

Talking About Love, BKS (1992)

On June 21,1993, Jessie and Gene took the airwaves of AM 640 between 5:30 - 9:00 AM every Monday - Friday. This was the first talk show that aired on AM 640. There was also a late-night talk show that took the airwaves too.

Grade V (1993 - 1994)

In the fall of 1993, another late-night talk show took the 11:00 - 1:00 AM time slot known as Telepersonal Radio. In the winter of 1994, another talk show took the airwaves known as Toronto Talks took the 9:00 AM - 12:00 timeslot and Touch Tone took the 1:00 - 3:00 timeslot. These talk shows took away the music during the day. These talk shows played during the daytime while the young listeners are at school.

Getaway, Maxx (1994)

Got to Get it, Culture Beat (1993)

Mortal Kombat Radio Ad (1993), Aired on AM 640 the New Beat of Toronto in September 1993

I recorded this radio ad because it has a great dance track. Mortal Monday is September 13, 1993

The Rhythm of Love, DJ Company (1994)

The Real Thing, 2 Unlimited (1994)

Runnin Up That Hill, Elastic Band (1994)

Right in the Night, Jam & Spoon

Grade VI (1994 - 1995)

In Grade VI, AM 640 the New Beat of Toronto decided to produce more boring talk show in the place of during the morning hours before school. In November/December of 1994, I stumbled upon a better radio station on the FM Dial known as Energy 108 FM. At the same time there was another station that played the same music called Hot 103.5 FM

All I Need Is The Night, Jefferson Project (1995)

Born Slippy, The Undererworld, (1995), Aired on Electric Circus in 1996.

Close to You, Fun Factory (1994)

Feel The Vibe, Afrika Bambaataa (1995)

Fluxland, XL (1994), In 2000, KernKraft created Zombie Nation. Sometimes the DJs may mix Fluxland XL and Zombie Nation back to back.

Happy People, Sotto Voice (1994), I heard this song on Energy 108 FM during the 1994 Christmas Holidays. I rented the 1931 movie "Frankenstein" from Jumbo Video on December 24, 1994.

Higher State Of Consciousness, Josh Wink, (1995) This song featured a Time Stretch that freaked me out while I was in bed.

Headbone Connected, Daisy Dee (1994), When I heard this song for the first time, I rubbed my eyes to this song and saw people walking to the rhythm of this song in the mall. I nick named this song, The Mall Walking Song.

Hold On, Loft (1994)

I like to Move It, Reel 2 Reel (1994)

In My Dreams, Darkness (1995)

I'm Hot For You, Little Louie Vega, (1995)

It's a Rainy Day, Ice MC (1994)

La Cuccamarcha, TNN (The New Nation) (1993). I heard this song for the first time during the summer of 1995 during a live-to-Air on Energy 108 or Hot 103.5 FM.

Let The Beat Go On, Dr. Alban (1994)

Love is Paradise, First Base

Machine Gun, Party Nation (1994)

Ou Eee Ou, DFS (1995)

Mystify - Raise your Hands, Positronic Brain (1994)

Memories, Netzwork (May 15, 1995)

I discovered Memories by Netzwerk when I recorded a live to Air from Amnesia Nightclub on Hot 103.5 FM. This was on of my favourite Euro dance tracks I like to listen to when it airs on Z103.5 FM.

Pa Pa Got a New Pig Bag Remix AKA Reach Up, Perfecto Allstarz, (1995) I heard this song on Energy 108 or Hot 103.5 in February or March 1995. I book bounced, DK Eye Witness books, "Aztec, Inca, and Maya" by Elizabeth Baquedano and "The Aztecs (See Through History) by Tim Wood. to this track when it dropped. Some song lyrics I remember was, Let's Bust this house.

Pick It Up, Herbie (1994)

Rhythem of the Night, Conona (1994)

Right Type of Mood, Herbie, 1995

Run Away, Real Mc Coy (1994), I heard this song on Energy 108 after I watched Bram Stoker's Count Dracula starring Christopher Lee.

The Square Dance, BKS (1995)

The Summer Is Magic, Playhitty/Corona (1994). Energy 108 and Hot 103.5 played this song very often between 1994 - 1995.

Think About the Way, Ice MC (1993) When I heard this song for the first time, Energy 108 FM played the noche de luna mix. I thought this was the original version to my ears. I heard the Radio version of Think About the Way later on 103.5 in 1995. I thought the radio verison was a remix.

Tonight it's Party Time, Outta Control AKA Killer Bunnies Dance Project, (1994)

Tonight is the Night, Le Click (1993) I heard it for the first time in 1994 after getting Bram Stoker's Dracula as a Belated Christmas gift.

The Way - VIP Shapdow Mix, DJ Taticx, (1994) This jungle track has lots of vocal time stretching and contains the word This Way. This was the first time I heard that freaky sound on the radio.

You Got Me, (Club Mix), Jefferson Project, 1995

Special shows in Energy FM and Hot 103.5 included the Dr Trance Show, The Street Mix and a Friday night Live to Air at Amnesia Night Club


The Energy FM Charts for May 8, 1995

Grade VII (1995 - 1996)

Astroplane, BKS (1996)

In your Arms, Emjay (1995)

Flying to the Moon, Emjay (1995)

I Dream of you Tonight, Taboo, (1995)

I will be adding more songs to this time line as soon as I remember the titles. Keep your ears to the Tracks

Grade VII has been omitted becaue I jumped to Grade IX in 1996. Let's click here and read about the music of High School

TheTop 108 songs from Energy FM from 1994

The Top 108 Songs from Energy FM, 1995

Top 108 songs from Energy FM 1994

2015-03-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

Energy Top 108 of 1994

Energy 108, FM Logo, from the mid 1990's

If you cannot find your favourite song that played on Energy 108 FM back in 1994, look it up here

Top Track for 1993 Mr Vain - CULTURE BEAT

Top Track for 1992 Rhythm is a dancer - SNAP

  1  I like to move it - REEL 2 REAL 
  2  Rhythm of the night - CORONA
  3  Sweet dreams - LA BOUCHE
  4  Colour of my dreams - BG PRINCE OF RAP
  5  Another night - MC SAR & THE REAL McCOY
  6  Right in the night - JAM & SPOON feat PLAVKA
  7  Saturday night party - ALEX PARTY
  8  The sign - ACE OF BASE
  9  Swamp thing - THE GRID
 10  Fluxland - XL
 11  What's up - DJ MIKO
 12  Saturday night - WHIGFIELD
 13  I swear - ALL-4-ONE
 14  I'll make love to you - BOYZ II MEN
 15  18 strings - TINMAN
 16  Runaway - MC SAR & THE REAL McCOY
 17  Close to you - FUN FACTORY
 18  Secret - MADONNA
 19  Mitch - EDIAN CARTEL
 20  Return to innocence - ENGIMA
 21  Treefrog - HOPE
 22  Do you wanna get funky - C & C MUSIC FACTORY
 23  I remember - MADONNA
 24  Real thing - TONY DIBART
 25  Short dick man - 20 FINGERS feat GILLETTE
 26  Go on move '94 - REEL 2 REAL
 27  I'll be loving you - COLLAGE
 28  Fantastic voyage - COOLIO
 29  Here comes the hotstepper - INI KAMOZE
 30  Don't turn around - ACE OF BASE
 31  Prayer for the dying - SEAL
 32  Moving on up - M-PEOPLE
 33  Flava in ya ear - CRAIG MACK
 34  Most beautiful girl in the world - PRINCE
 35  Groove thang - ZHANE
 36  Yolanda - REALITY
 37  I love music - ROZALLA
 38  Dreamer - LIVING JOY
 39  Automatic lover - MC SAR & THE REAL McCOY
 40  Welcome to tomorrow - SNAP feat SUMMER
 41  Regulate - WARREN G
 42  Feels like heaven - URBAN COOKIE COLLECTIVE
 43  I'll take you there - GENERAL PUBLIC
 44  Texas cowboy - THE GRID
 45  Window in the sky - ACEN
 46  Hey everybody - DJ COMPANY
 47  Because of love - JANET JACKSON
 48  What's my name - SNOOP DOGGY DOG
 49  River - PUBLIC ART
 50  7 seconds - YOUSSOU N'DOUR
 51  On bended knee - BOYZ II MEN
 52  Whatta man - SALT N PEPA
 53  Doop - DOOP
 54  Running up that hill - ELASTIC BAND
 55  Lalala Hey Hey - OUTHERE BROTHERS
 56  100% pure love - CRYSTAL WATERS
 57  Let the beat go on - DR ALBAN
 58  Dunkie butt - 12 GAUGE
 59  Funkdafied - DA BRAT
 60  Put the gun down - RASTA SURVIVOR
 61  Bump n grind - R KELLY
 62  Hold on (TNT mix) - THE LOFT
 63  Higher love - CAPITAL SOUND
 64  You mean the world to me - TONI BRAXTON
 65  You want this - JANET JACKSON
 66  Find me - JAM & SPOON feat PLAVKA
 67  Stay - ETERNAL
 68  Understanding - XSCAPE
 69  I want you - JULIET ROBERTS
 70  Cantaloop - US3
 71  That's the way you do it - PURPLE KINGS
 72  Misled - CELINE DION
 73  Chronologie pt4 - JEAN MICHEL JARRE
 74  Joy - STAXX OF JOY
 75  Breathe again - TONI BRAXTON
 76  Let it go - PRINCE
 77  Stroke you up - CHANGING FACES
 78  Loser - BECK
 79  Give it up - GOODMEN
 80  If you still love me - STEVIE B
 81  Ghetto jam - DOMINO
 82  Gin & juice - SNOOP DOGGY DOGG
 83  Son of a gun - JX
 84  Could I be your girl - JANN ARDEN
 85  Sweet potato pie - DOMINO
 86  Peace and joy - SOUNDSATION
 87  Living in danger - ACE OF BASE
 88  Music is my life - TEMPERANCE
 89  Creep - TLC
 90  So much in love - ALL-4-ONE
 91  Girls and boys - BLUR
 92  Cry for you - JODECI
 93  Lucky one - AMY GRANT
 94  Twist n shout - CHAKA DEMUS & PLIERS
 95  You don't love me (no,no,no) - DAWN PENN
 96  Tic toc - LORDS OF THE UNDERGROUND
 97  Life - HADDAWAY
 98  Never forget you - MARAIH CAREY
 99  Petal - WUBBLE-U
100  No-one - 2 UNLIMITED
101  Love sees no colour - U96
102  I wanna be down - BRANDY
103  In the night - CAPITAL SOUND
104  Your body's calling - R KELLY
105  Big time sensitivity - BJORK
106  Newborn friend - SEAL
107  Juicy - NOTORIOUS BIG
108  Beautiful morning - SENSATION

More Memories of the BUD

2014-09-10T14:12:00.002-07:00

The BUD brought me so many memories in the world of TV and imagination

G 3 Channel 19 - Nickelodeon

In 1990, I watched Nickelodeon all the time. This was my favorite TV channel on the satellite dish. Nickelodeon was the first kids channel that played cartoons, kids related game shows like Nick Arcade, Get the Picture, Family Double Dare, and GUTS.

Early one morning, I turned on the TV and tuned in and discovered this outer space TV show called Launch Box.

Space Camp

In the fall of 1991, I saw a TV show in Friday morning at 5:30 AM entitled Launch Box. This TV Show was syndicated as a Cable in the classroom show. School teachers were permitted to tape the show and screen it in the classrooms. When I saw it for the first time, I discovered the US Space Camp. When I was a child, I wanted to take a trip to Space Camp.

The picture above was seen in Volume 33 (February, 1992) of Nintendo Power Magazine, the Players Poll Contest grand prize was a trip to the US Space Camp and a shuttle launch. After finding this picture, I was Inspired to creatre a pretend play game entitled Space Camp. My Space Suit was a winter coat, the space shuttle was my bed. the bedroom was the first incarnation of the space station. Enjoy the short inspirational video about going to outer space without leaving your home.

In March of 1992, I went to Universal Studios Orlando and toured Nickelodeon Studios and took a road trip to the Kennedy Space Centre.