Marty's Musings!

Bruce Hogle Touched us all...

2024-04-05T19:27:00.001-06:00

I'm not a religious person though I believe there is a reason we all somehow found our way on to this earth.

I also believe that there is a distinct reason for all of us to be here.

Yes some get it - some don't - and there are various reasons, both good and bad, for where each of us end up.

This past week we lost an 'over achiever' on earth and I say that with the deepest respect as we say goodbye to Bruce Hogle in Edmonton. (Sadly wife Gail just 3 weeks earlier)

Bruce filled his life 'big time' helping other people and I can safely say I've never seen a man with a smile on his face each and every time we connected, be it in the hallways at CFRN Television, at the Edmonton Broadcasters Club, or attending 'some' meeting connected to the community - and for about 30 years in my world.

I was fortunate to have called Bruce a 'friend' very early in my time in media.

He knew my Dad, which was a huge bonus. www.jerryforbescentre.ca

After losing my Dad in 1981, at a very young age, Bruce literally stepped in to my world and unknowingly or not became a huge influence on me.

As we worked across the hallways he was often in my office often, or we'd bump in to each other in the cafeteria.

If I needed him...he was there...and by that I want to explain something that people may not know.

Management is hard...very hard...but the good ones make it look easy. The pressure is immense running somebody else's business...often you were the conveyance to the staff - inspiring them, where possible, but also having to do things that were demanded by ownership that you may not entirely endorse...like laying people off...people you may have known for a very long time - you know their spouses - their kids - you may have helped them through a dilemma or you may have had to call them in to give them 'hell' for something they've done (or not done) that affected the business,

On 'those days' mentorship is everything and again Bruce was 'there' for me.

He was so much like my Father...never saying "well here's the way I'd do it...." but more of a "well if you do Door #1 - Door #2 - or Door #3 here's what the result 'may' be..." so...over to you.

Just having the other guys ears was enough to help you take a big breath - thank him/her - and move on to the difficult task ahead.

In Community work nobody - and I will repeat - N O B O D Y did more for the City of Edmonton than Bruce Hogle did...through many many different avenues.

A few I can remember include when each and every media outlet was solo (before consolidation) so each and every property in radio, tv, or radio had a local manager of (most often) born and raised IN Edmonton so we 'got it.'

The City was going through a terrible time (when hasn't it?) and Bruce organized a meeting somewhere in the downtown core and every...EVERY...media manager was there.

At the meeting he plunked the gavel down and very thoroughly told us that we need to get to our various properties and tell our people to STOP doing so much negative news reporting and to start looking for those positive things that make Edmonton great.

No it wasn't manipulating the news.

No he wasn't wrong because the trend seemed to be to look for bad things to report about - or talk about on air - and that we'd stopped looking for these gems that made Edmonton great.

Point taken. Big time.

The one beautiful thing I noted in the wonderful Cam Tait article was the 'personal' touch.

Bruce never started with business in our chats. Bruce never ended our chats with business either,

It was about our families.

He was so proud of Bill, Steve, and Randy. And I could listen to him talk for hours about their various escapades. I've only met Bill once or twice - I adore Steve - and I'm still in awe of Randy and what he has accomplished in life.

You don't have the success that the Hogle family has without having dynamic parents sharing the responsibilities of raising the kids, and also 'bringing home the bread' to make sure they live rich and fruitful lives.

As I said in my opening statement I'm not a religious person - but having Gail and Bruce leave the earth within 3 weeks of each other surely sends a message to us.

I don't think I need to explain further...other than they both were loved, respected, and adored!

Bless you Hogle folks for sharing two of the kindest people on the face of the earth with the rest of us.

---

Here is my eulogy from the Bruce and Gail funeral...short version from above.

My name is Marty Forbes…my real name is Martin Forbes but only my Dad and Mom called me that when I was in trouble.

A precious few people call me Mart - and I’m deeply honoured when they do.

Bruce Hogle called me Mart.

I’ve known Bruce and Gail for around thirty years...Steve for almost the same

We met as I ran the radio stations across from CFRN…so bumping into Bruce was a common occasion…but even more so he was like a third father to me.

He would have held second designation if it wasn’t for my stepfather.

Because both Bruce and Dad were highly successful in broadcasting my relationship with Bruce was truly enhanced.

We ‘connected.’

In fact Bruce often used the same system that my Dad used with me.

Neither would solve my problems but… they would often point out a few possible solutions from their sage experience.

Kinda like...Door #1...Door #2 or Door #3 so that I had a different view from about 30,000 feet.

I believe that great managers make the gig look easy but I can assure you upper management often isn’t.

On those horrible days when you are the messenger that has to lay somebody off,

or do something you disagree with; to show compassion…and help those people cope...somehow...

Bruce often had ‘the right words.’

He was my go to guy….but before we ever got to the tough part of the chat there was always the mandatory family update….

Mart…how’s Kim and the Girls. Not just once in awhile...every...single...time!

With many people that’s a throw away line and they don’t even really listen or respond.

Not Bruce…when my daughter was struggling with Graves Disease Bruce was there for me listening, responding, and showing his sincere care.

Again...every...single...time!

Then I’d hear about the Hogle family and how proud of each of you that he was…what Gail was up to, and if you know each or any Hogle family member well you’ll know how lovingly similar they are in how they treat other people.

Having Gail and Bruce as parents set an amazing standard for Bill, Randy and Steve and they carry that name proudly and I’m sure have passed it down to their children and will to their grandchildren.

And yes behind every good man is a powerful woman...and mother...and at social functions Gail would be right beside Bruce…charming everybody that wandered by to say hello.

They've been married for almost as long as I’ve been on this earth…and seeing them together was like when I used to see the late great Senator Tommy Banks with his wife Ida; it was like watching two teenagers in love…the power couple of media and the community flirting.

Bruce was given many prestigious awards...high profile designations...but behind our wall he used to often wonder what all the fuss was...cuz it was nice but not something he ever sought out.

From what I understand too is that Bruce shined at the back end of his time here as The unofficial Mayor of Canterbury…walking around every day talking to all the other residents….that was so Bruce.

Brighten up somebody else’s day was his mandate. And with Gail, again, nearby.

I’ve left his business success to this point in my chat because that’s how Bruce operated.

People first. Business second.

Watching him wander the station hallways…hi to the ladies in the cafeteria….stopping to talk to virtually everybody who made eye contact…calling each and every one of them ‘by name’…well it’s a skill and a talent that touched everybody.

If it was somebody new he'd often lean over and say 'Mart...who's that and what do they do here?'

Next time he'd see them...yup...he’d remembered their name and made them feel like a million dollars simply for recognizing them.

Bruce knew no status. He’d bring the rich and powerful down to earth and he’d pull the rest of us up simply by listening to him.

The respect he had was and IS immeasurable.

Where I truly saw that in force was in the mid 90’s.

The city was in a big funk…and Bruce called each and every Manager of media to a special meeting downtown one day.

Back then all media was managed or owned locally...it was before consolidation so every property was separate, and all decisions were handled in town…

There were about 25 or so of us in the room and Bruce was calling us to task…pointing out that we allowed too many of our people…or newscasts…that our columns too were overly negative or critical…and that it was up to us to all help turn this around…to talk about how great a city and province we live in.

No it wasn’t ‘controlling the media’ but it was simply common sense that Edmontonians listened to us…watched us…and read our columns and that it was our civic duty to help make this city tick and move it forward.

There was almost dead silence as we all looked at each other and thought…he’s right….and we took his message back to our operations to put into force.

Bruce is in the Canadian Broadcast Association Hall of Fame…among the giants of the industry....recognized by his peers for an amazing contribution to our industry.

His TV Editorials were amongst the first in the country and people 'grew up' watching and listening to Bruce digging into the depths of how our city worked...it was a powerful gig.

Finally...my Dad gave me several tips as an 18 year old kid getting into the broadcast business....and the top piece of advice was "hang around successful people.'

Nobody was more successful for all the reasons I've just mentioned and Bruce is at the top of that list for which I am eternally grateful.

Both Gail and Bruce Hogle have Enriched my life and it will never ever be forgotten.

Rest in peace my friends...

Let's retire the "live for today" cliché and just do it!

2023-09-06T16:39:00.002-06:00

I love to write. I find it therapeutic.

Today I need that therapy.

Maybe it's because this week would have been my Mom's birthday that I am getting a little 'pensive' - because I really miss her.

When she was on her death bed a few years back the three brothers would fly in to Toronto, alternately, to talk to her and try to keep her spirits up.

I had 'great' chats with her...asking her about her life before my Dad; what she loved most about her time on earth; and about her extended family that I didn't know much about.

On the last visit she was often saying "I want to die" and it really hit me hard. I asked her to stop saying it because we all loved her, and although we knew it was close, that she still had time to enjoy what time she had left with us.

Very eloquently she gave me a speech I will never ever forget.

"Marty I'm in pain. Daily pain. Just trying to get up in the morning...just trying to eat something with a rapidly closing throat. I've buried both of my husbands...my sister, my brother, all my Uncles and Aunts and almost every good friend of mine.

I live in this 'home" (if you can call it that) and you make friends with somebody only to find out that they had passed away at night and there's an empty chair at our '5 o'clock wine time' seating.

You guys are all retired now and don't come to town (3 or 4 times a year) like you used to when there were meetings or conventions and you're several Provinces away and I can't get out to see you any more."

I got it...big time...and I started to apply my thinking to it with the many, many friends I've lost over the past decade and a few real good ones that died well before their time with aids, cancer, and even more tragically suicide when they never asked for help nor did I recognize that they needed it.

Dad's got a building here in Edmonton - the Jerry Forbes Centre for Community Spirit - home for Santas Anonymous that he started here in 1955 - and a few streets named after him a block away from a pal I see almost weekly.

Each Christmas 630 CHED graciously plays his 'A Creature was Stirring' piece, for the past 40 or so years, that salutes the volunteers that make that program so incredibly successful.

J'Lyn Nye used to interview me a few days before the campaign and I'd dread the question "what does it feel like to hear that piece" and I'd obviously speak with pride about the honour I felt and how proud I was to be a 'Forbes|" - but then I'd get in the car, it would be on the radio, and even 42 years after he left us it would 'draw tears' cuz that wasn't Jerry Forbes I was listening to...it was 'my Dad!'

The one benefit of being in radio is you meet lots of people...lots and lots and most of those people bring me what I call a 'touch point' - a moment in time that I will remember forever about that person.

Because of my age (72) and because of that fact I'm losing those friends and 'touch points' almost weekly, it hits hard and often these days.

Most of them were younger than me...spouses; people I worked with; people I did charity projects with; people I respected and was proud to be a part of their lives too.

Facebook has a special feature to put those friends pages 'on hold' when you pass away so that they don't show up in your daily feed and you can still dial them up to look at their pictures and remember them when they cross your mind.

Sadly if you haven't designated somebody to do that for you (usually a family member) they WILL continue to scroll by you and their birthdays will pop up and 'again' you go through the grieving process thinking how wonderful it would be if they were still here.

Over the past few weeks/months alone a few really good friends lost their spouses - both with marriages of over 30 years. They'd show up for our staff parties - I got to know their kids - and you can see the pain they are going through when they post something about their loss - and/or you know what's coming when a birthday shows up or Fathers/Mothers Day, Christmas etc.

I also recently just lost a friend I've known 'since birth!'

My Dad passed away at age 58 in 1981. On the day of his funeral I pledged to 'retire' at age 58 and although I opened up my company when I 'semi retired' in 2008 I controlled the companies and people I worked with to focus on either paying it forward (charity work) or on projects where I knew our friendship wouldn't be compromised if we got in to a disagreement.

To loop back to Mom and my conversation...During the last conversation I mentioned she ended it with "I'm lonely."

Losing people who have been part of my seven decades really makes me feel the same.

I remember trips together; accomplishments; laughs; stupidity; birth of my/their children; concerts we went to; places we've been to; and fondly remember my time spent with them over the years.

Often on my social media feeds somebody's name will pop up that I haven't spoken to in a long time and I'll fire off a brief note to them thanking them for their friendship and often remembering one of those 'touch points.'

My final big 'touch point' happened this year with the snowmobile accident and it really hit home when the Doctor told me how fortunate I was not to have killed myself.

I sold the snowmobile right away, then the motorcycle this summer and although I 'loved' both of those units I simply couldn't put my wife and kids through anything like that again...'ever'....so it was the right decision to sell them.

I also have been very fortunate in my life and career to be able to do the #1 thing I love the most and that is 'travel' and I'm trying to narrow my 'real' bucket list down big time while I'm still here breathing this fire fractured air that we've had all summer here in Edmonton.

My love for Europe is immense. I still 'learn' about the countries I go to. I 'love' to chat with people over there in 'fractured' English - and I treasure seeing any and all places I've visited when they pop up on tv shows or movies.

I've been so fortunate to have visited 35 countries - so far - and I still have more to see.

For years I almost 'apologized' to people because of that good fortune.

They'd say "it must be nice..." and I'd somehow deflect that comment by trying to make it look like I wasn't simply showing off.

I don't do that anymore. At my age my response is now "you're damn right...why don't you go travel?'

So today, just to wrap up, and use Mom's last thoughts...I'm lonely.

Yes I'm surrounded by an amazing family that makes me so proud - and yes I have 'damn great' friends that aren't afraid to knock me down a peg or two if I get on a high horse about something|" - and I'm proud to hop on airplanes with these people and see as much of this big wide glorious world as I possibly can before I say goodbye to you all.

My loneliness is only because I really miss the people who I have lost in my world, especially over the past decade. It's a profound sadness.

Each and every one of those people, somehow, made my touch points so incredibly rewarding and damn I wish they were all here today to continue our conversations in an extremely complex world.

So...to the title of this blog...don't just say Live for Today to somebody anymore because that is almost instantly forgotten until the next time you lose somebody who meant something to you.

Live for today?

Live for tomorrow! And the day after that...and...and...and...

And remind me to put in my will a special note to the funeral home to "please chip the grin off my face because I've had an incredible life and life doesn't owe me a darned thing."

Thanks for reading this and yes...THANK YOU FOR BEING A FRIEND!

There...I feel better now!

Post Covid Travel

2022-09-27T17:08:00.002-06:00

Well, we are back - thirty fine folks enjoyed a wonderful 14 day Azorcan tour of Italy, Austria, Hungary and Germany over the past few weeks - with memories that will last forever. https://www.azorcan.net/

Obviously after 2 1/2 years 'much' has changed in the world of travel so here are a few thoughts from our trip overseas.

First off, airlines and airports have not 'fully' ramped up so the only hassles we experienced were in dealing with staff shortages, especially at Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport.

It's a 'big' airport and often you are at one end of the structure with a good long walk to get to your gate to transfer to wherever you are going to in Europe.

Don't forget that you have to clear customs there and factor that time in to your walk to get to your next plane. The line we experienced was long, to say the least, but it moved along very quickly.

One good thing they do is try to find out who has a tight connection, and they move you to the front of the line OR to a booth where you can scoot through relatively quickly.

There's a staff member moving around the area so make sure they know you need some assistance.

They'll ask for your flight details to confirm your time - then off you go.

However the airline we used was short staff, AND the ground crew is also not fully manned, which had us moving to three different gates in about twenty minutes.

At our third and final gate there was only one employee and she was rather overwhelmed - and the automated check in machine was acting up so she had to do a quick shuffle to get everybody through efficiently.

After we were cleared it was on to a 'shuttle' to get to the airplane waiting on the tarmac - but - they weren't ready to go and we had to stay in a very packed bus, at 30c, and watched as they loaded on food/beverage for our flight. Delay - about 30 minutes.

On the return flight, we only had one hour to get from one end of the airport to the other - clear customs - and race to the gate. Once boarded the Captain came on to apologize that the ground crew was busy loading/unloading another plane and we'd be delayed another hour or so to get on our way. In reality it was closer to an hour and a half.

Weather in the Atlantic (hurricane) forced us to go further north to avoid weather problems so the planned flight was 8 hours and 45 minutes ended up being around a 10.5 hour jaunt.

You're wise to use something like the TripCase app as it is updated continuously with any details that change. As well 'listen' carefully because announcements are also being made for the big shuffle.

Another big change, from past Euro trips, is that cell phone usage is now almost imperative. For the most part I always just use wifi BUT not only is it unreliable in several hotels/cities we were in but the new 'double' sign on process requires that you get a 'code' sent to your phone - and if you don't have cell service you're not going to get that code.

I had trouble signing on to my Canadian bank and had to turn my phone on for about ten seconds (at a cost of a full day from Bell) to get a new 'push notice' that allowed me to do my banking overseas.

Throughout Europe wifi can be either really good or horribly bad. At our first hotel it was almost impossible to use and speeds were extremely low. As the trip progressed wifi was better at our various hotel stops.

So - buy a cell package - and it's not as simple as it was before either. I actually went in to a Bell store to book it and they advised me that they couldn't help me and I'd have to go 'on line.' I was hoping to find an easy link to sign up for service for the two week trip to find out that they only sell 30 day packages - and that that option wasn't even listed on their app.

In Europe many restaurants and services now use QR codes for menu's, tickets, etc. If you're at that place, with no wifi, you're hooped.

One thing you'll likely notice is the lack of American chains. Several shut down over the past few years and it played in to the 'shop local' theme that most of the world is adhering too.

There were very few McDonalds and Burger Kings - fewer Starbucks - and most of the KFC's are gone, as well as Subway and Pizza Huts. No loss in my mind. The Mcdonalds over there has a Cafe off to the side where fresh baking was available...much different from over here.

Why go to these beautiful unique cities that feature incredible food and dine on products that you constantly use over here? Try something new...you'll be glad you did!

In the past UBER was a big help to me - especially in countries with little English prevalent - as you dial in your destination, hit the request for service, and a driver comes to your pickup point. If they don't speak English everything is handled via the app - which is great - and no cash is required as it is debited from your account automatically.

Several places I tried to access the service showed that UBER wasn't available in that city. The good part is, however, that in some cities it is now possible to hail a CAB with the UBER app. Lots of price point checks.

Also with your cell, MAPS is a huge asset for you to get around town. Again - if you don't have wifi you're going to have a problem.

In some downtown cores there is now blanket wifi - especially in the tourist areas - so you can access your cell apps.

For the most part a quick 'ask' around you yields somebody who can help you. We had a great waitress dial in our hotel while we were seemingly lost - and she handed over her phone so that we could see how to get to it by 'walking' and bingo we were on our way.

Another big thing that has changed is TAP. Many places have it, but on a few occasions it didn't work back to my bank in Canada. A few times we had servers who couldn't speak English so you try to ask to use the 'swipe' (some worked - some didn't) and I was forced to use cash for the transaction.

In other places...no problem. So...carry cash, a debit card, and a credit card so that you're covered.

Another tip for you...if you're going to visit any attraction, and you're not on a group tour where you have purchased tickets, you'd be wise to book ON LINE for that visit. As travel is getting back in to full swing you're likely to find large crowds to deal with and some places are still restricting numbers of people allowed in to the buildings so you could be left out of the attraction and miss seeing some of the great places in the world.

Another good app to have is the 'translate' app - and there are several. Some are very good and can be utilized via text, voice, and even using your picture/scan feature to translate from English to whatever language you require.

Rick Steeve's Europe app is also very good and he hosts walking tours around cities. Simply start where the app directs you and crank up your headphones for a description of the walk around town.

Other app's that I use - Spotify for podcasts and music - and various video streaming services - also require wifi (or pre download) so that you can stay entertained on the airplane or on long bus rides around the country. And the currency app...know what you are paying.

Another big change since the covid shutdown is the use of EBikes - they can be a godsend on hilly roads - and can help extend your enjoyment by covering a fair amount of ground. There are guided EBike tours available now too.

In many cities the Lime EScooters are also available. Rome was 'covered' with these things, and many business's aren't too pleased about it as they are often just dropped in the middle of the sidewalk in front of their shops. Download the Lime app here before you go and a quick scan has you scooting around your destination. (Some areas are now restricted so be cognizant of where you can/can't ride)

In Austria there are a good amount of bikes/scooters, yet in Budapest I saw few - if any - available.

Google search a city before you go to see what is available.

ATM's are available everywhere, but all are different, and may take a few minutes to learn how to flip to English so that you can utilize their machines.

If you're travelling in a group consider building a WhatsApp list so that you can keep in touch with other folks in your group. This comes in handy if you're wandering around different parts of the city and need some assistance.

WhatsApp is also good for sharing your photo's on the trip. As well you might think about a group Instagram setup so that your travelling friends can all contribute to the Insta with their pictures. Just multiplies the fun when people back home are following along with you.

If you're driving around Europe you'll be pleased to see how they operate gas stations in rural areas. Very often you'll find full bakeries and food services in the stations featuring a wide array of really good food.

Remember too that many restrooms over there that require payment. Costs vary but usually around 50c or 1 Euro. Always carry extra change for these pit stops.

On public transit make sure you buy your ticket AND get it stamped when you board the bus/train. There were stories of tourists getting big fines for not doing so. Lack of understanding is no excuse.

As well there are several 'no sitting' restrictions too - including stairs - and guards will quickly scoot you off their protected areas.

Also, remember that each country has different covid restrictions and, although most everything is now fully open and operational, some public transit requires full masking and SOME require N95 masks exclusively to use their service.

While we were away the ArriveCan app requirement was dropped so that problem has now gone away.

On the airplane, and around Europe, there are still people who are wearing masks but I'd say less than 5% seems realistic. Personal choice is just that!

Finally, double check your Passport and Nexus dates. If your expiry date is within six months you could face problems. Or...you may have forgotten to renew your passes and it's taking a good while to get them replaced or updated.

It was so great to see the world again and I can't wait to get back over to catch up on the three trips that my wife and I lost due to the covid shut down.

Europe is so diverse and so enjoyable to visit. Study up a bit on your history before you to really benefit from the trip. The Tourism Boards do great video work,

Remember... 'celebrate the difference.'

Lots of things differ greatly from over here so be prepared and see how the other half lives.

It can be quite enriching and enjoyable - but yes - it can cause concerns so be prepared.

I hope you found a few helpful tips here.

I'm allready planning my next jaunt over...an April river cruise in Portugal.

https://www.amawaterways.ca/

Enjoy!

The World Opens Up

2022-09-04T12:59:00.007-06:00

Well it's time to travel again - for most of us - and after losing three trips that would have taken me to Portugal, Vietnam, Cambodia, Turkey, Bulgaria, Serbia, Romania, Croatia, and Germany (that we lost due to Covid) I've rebooked three Euro hops in the next 18 months. Thank goodness!

Some logic and thought starters here.

First off, you can break down your life's travel opportunities in this manner - as it aligns with my pattern.

From age 20 to 35 hit Las Vegas as often as you possibly can, get absolutely stupid, then...get married.

From 36 to 50, raise your kids (start saving for Disneyland...both of them...or more) and enjoy your peak earning years - head to Hawaii, or some other warm spot, during the winter to download some stress and soak up some sun,

From 51 to 65, see the world..as much of it as possible. Learn about the different cultures; experience the glorious history of that country; expand your knowledge on why it's ok to be 'different' from others; and pass that knowledge on to others.

*Leave the kids at home - they'll love the break - and they won't understand the complexity of what they would see on these trips until they are much older.

From 66 to 'whatever' cram in as much travel as you possibly can because the reality of life is that your body slowly breaks down and makes simple things like waking up in the morning harder as every day goes by.

There’s no known ‘best before’ date…so…go…

My knees are causing grief; my back surgery 40 years ago isn't getting any better; and my sleep patterns are bizarre. No need for an alarm clock anymore. Anybody need a 6:31 am wake up call - consistently?

Plus, in the past few years 'covid' has made travel an absolute pain in the butt (not physically) and it's going to be more and more difficult in simply getting to parts of the world from now on.

As well, sadly, many of us think we will 'travel later' and that reality can often be lost.

In the past five or so years alone I've lost close to 20 friends...most of them younger than me...many who didn't enjoy a single moment of retirement or enjoying the benefits of very successful careers.

I know this isn't possible for everybody. I know...I'm fortunate....I live a wonderful lifestyle because of my media career. I was fortunate enough to visit many places, through business, that gave me a free preview of wonderful places to return to - Miami's South Beach; the beautify of the California and Oregon coasts; and other amazing places.

A five decade career isn't exactly easy so before you think I'm boasting just remember that I ran radio stations in the biggest markets in Canada and they all have one thing in common...they never close.

A minimum nine to five office day 5 days week; meetings for several community groups you're wise to join; and when you get in the car during the evening and weekends it's not always a good idea to tell your wife to "shushhh I have to listen to this!"

So, over the next 18 months I'm going to blog and post my trip highlights so I can 'hopefully' help others in understanding the complexities of travel these days and open some doors to some countries you may have not ever thought of visiting.

Am I scared to travel right now? Absolutely! It's a wild card.

Cancelled flights.

Bumped off somewhere you don't want to spend more than a few hours in.

Lost luggage - both ways - coming and going.

Sitting beside people you have no idea of their health situation and hoping that they don't cause you any unnecessary grief.

Weather issues. Custom issues. Language differences.

It's a long list - but - travel is an adventure and if you keep an open mind some of the 'mis'-adventures can end up being the highlight of a trip that you will remember....forever.

I'm travelling with 30 people in a private bus through Italy, Austria, Germany, and Hungary. I've been to all these places before but usually rushed and didn't have enough time to discover the many amazing things in those cities/countries and without a local guide.

The last 7 trips overseas have been done solely with Amawaterways.ca or with Azorcan Tours hosted by my good friend Paul Almeida.

They have one thing in common. Amazing organizational skills and opportunities, a worry free goal for their customers, and neat 'surprises' like meeting people like ex Oiler Jari Kurri in Helsinki, Finland..

Your only obligation, honestly, is to 'be on the bus on time.'

With both groups you hand your luggage off at the airport, hop on the plane, and get set to enjoy everything the travel brochures highlight because these folks have you covered top to bottom - safety included.

I'm travelling with some incredible friends too, Bryn Griffiths is the worlds best traveling partner and can get you 'anywhere' you want to go with his forensic planning via all transportation modes with no language issues. .

In countries where English is as scarce as hens teeth it's a huge comfort.

As well, Craig Roskin, another media vet, is returning to Italy after over fifty years. We have known each other since 1955. My Dad (Jerry) started CHED with his Dad (Lou) at that time.

Of note...Craig enjoys The Art of Conversation (yeah that means he talks a lot) so I've packed my Bose headphones and added to my 5,000 song Spotify playlist, so I’m prepared.

Our Italy itinerary includes Rome, the Vatican, Siena, San Gimignano Florence, Pisa, Bologna, Verona and Venice. (Fortunately Naples isn't included...been there/done that/hated it/don't ever drive there!)

In Germany we head for Munich, and a stop at the legendary Oktoberfest. I was there once on a motorcycle tour through Europe and I can tell you that it honestly makes the Calgary Stampede look like a shindig.

Massive tents filled with gigantic jugs of beer, pretzels, Oompa pa music, a complete Fair, and a dozen ambulances lined up at the gates to take out patrons that can't walk. It's an amazing visual - trust me.

In Austria, one of may all time favourite countries, we will be stopping in Innsbruck (home of the 1964 Winter World Olympics) Salzburg - yup the Sound of Music city; and Vienna - one of my all time favourites with so many things to do in a fairytale setting - including some amazing music centres, Lipizzan Horses; and unique foods.

We will finish up in Budapest, another city I enjoyed a few years back. Anybody who has been there can tell you how stunning the harbour is between Buda and Pest - all lit up at night - during a cruise in the Bay.

We have local guides travelling with us and if you've done some of the worlds biggest city bus tours with those awful sound system head sets I can't tell you how rewarding it is to sit with people who LIVE in the countries you are visiting,

Paul can confirm that my seat in the bus is always at the front and often beside these guides where I enjoy some eye opening conversations about their lives.

The most compelling are in the former Communist countries.

Most of the things they grew up with we never learned in school - just too deep - and when you hear of the restrictions they faced as kids and young folks growing up - well - it just makes me shudder when I see about some of the meaningless things that we complain about over here in North America.

So - I will be posting pictures and short descriptions of our experiences as we roll through each country.

Hopefully, if you're thinking of getting back on the big silver bird yourself, these tips and thoughts may be of some assistance to you.

Essentials, by the way before I leave you, check all your documents well ahead of your travel plans. It's taking forever to get your passport renewed and the NEXUS fighting between Canada and the US is leaving most offices closed thus only 'renewals' are getting done.

My lounge pass benefit was cancelled by the bank without notice to me - so I would have handed out an outdated lounge card in Amsterdam after a 9 hour flight and 7 hour time difference…glad I double checked.

You'll need the ArriveCan app; Re-open Euro is helpful; Uber, TripCase is excellent; MyHealthRecords, my lounge pass is now Visa Airport Companion; Google Translate (it's gold); and of course your Airline app.

Make sure you turn your phone on to airplane mode OR purchase a plan that will cover you over in Europe. A mistake here can be very costly.'

Next, take a picture of your important information and leave it with somebody back home...a relative is best. I you lose your passport, or other documentation, it can be a real struggle to get it replaced and get back home. Trust me!

And finally, my last warning, that often gets overlooked.

Don't get hammered on the plane!

A hangover, 7 or 8 hour time difference, and jet lag can be an absolute killer.

We warned one gent on the flight over to the World Junior Championships in the Czech Republic a few years back and he missed three days of the fun and games with a massive headache and certainly wasted a good amount of money needlessly.

As well border agents can be a real pain in the ass. It's their job.

If you are drunk and obnoxious they can do one of a few things. First, turn you around, Second arrest you, or third detain you for a very long tine to sober up and scare the hell out of you.

In fact...it's sobering. (Pun intended)

Often, when you step out of the airplane in a European country, you are met by guards, both male and female, holding automatic rifles - and they have zero tolerance for anybody misbehaving.

I have my four AHS covid shots, with both the MyHealth App and auto transfer on the Apple Wallet, my ArriveCan app, TripCase and Apple AirTag ready to go.

So..way we go...let’s roll..

Links:

https://www.azorcan.net

https://www.amawaterways.ca

Euro trips - Euro tips!

2019-04-25T09:59:00.001-06:00

Although I haven't reached Rick Steeves status yet I'm proud that I'm on my eighth trip across the pond and have learned a great deal about travelling in foreign countries (now 27 of them) and I'm happy to share some tips here.

First off - 'do your prep.' If you're going to a brand new company learn a bit about the culture and history of that country. Europe is draped in history and their customs and various systems are often 100% different from North American norms so it's wise to be prepared.

Wikipedia and YouTube are your best friends and now Podcasting is a huge help. A simple search of the City or area you're going to will yield a goldmine of information - and video - and help you get to know a few of the landmarks you'll be visiting.

Once you get to your destination you'll be shocked at how much you DON'T know and my common line upon hopping the plane home is "if I'm ever reincarnated and come back to life I'm going to pay attention in History class next time."

Currency is different all over the place....and even though the Euro was supposed to cover most of Europe there are a few countries that don't accept the money OR take it 'hesitatingly' and often you will get short changed in the exchange.

We travel with very little cash as there are bank machines everywhere - but again some do NOT have English on them so it can be a bit challenging getting cash out when needed.

We also carry two different credit cards - American Express and VISA for use - because you can run in to merchants that won't accept one or the other or for that matter credit at all.

A hotel Concierge is your best friend and can be of huge assistance for everything from giving safety tips or calling a cab (or Uber in some cases) as well as helping with any language issues.

Many hotels have airport pickups as well...which can be extremely helpful after a long tiring trip.

There are several apps that do the conversion for currency all over the world and it's wise to have one of those on your smartphone.

Ditto 'language' conversation. Even knowing a few key terms can be helpful.

Most countries it's very easy to get along with just English - though France has had a few challenges for us...like a waiter picking up the menu and walking away when we asked for an English one. He never returned.

Speaking of smartphones roaming is incredibly expensive. I put mine on Airplane mode and rely on wifi (which is readily available throughout most of Europe - except in some small towns) and use my SKYPE account to call back home after I've checked messages on my phone.

Electricity is different all over the world too so you'll have to be a plug that adapts to the various countries you are visiting. Be careful though as you need multiple units. The UK, for example, has their own unique system and it's different from most of Europe.

Caution at airport arrivals. Many cities have 'rogue' drivers who look like any other cab driver except they are IN the airport and grab you at the luggage area and aggressively direct you to their cars. They are not licensed and some drive like madmen. On a Paris run with my daughter one was going over 200 kph as we screamed at him (in English) to slow down.

Heathrow has a high speed link from the airport/downtown - Paris has their Metro (subway) that can save you money and avoid congestion.

UBER can be gold especially in cities where language problems can occur. Simply order your ride share in the hotel lobby - take the ride without worrying about any 'lost in conversation' problems.

A few safety tips:

1. Tell your security system provider you will be away and give them two 'contact' people in case of any needs.

2. Give a copy of your itinerary to other family members mrs so that they know where you are at all times. Give them hotel names, your travel agents name, (if applicable) in case anybody back home needs to contact you.

3. Put a business card in your luggage with all your contact information as well - including phone, email, etc. - so that there are multiple ways of getting hold of you.

4. Pickpockets are huge in Europe - many travel in teams. One distracts you or bumps in to you and bingo you're hit. Watch your purse or bag when you put it on the floor at a restaurant or where you stop. These are 'pro's' and if you're not careful that bag will be gone in a blink. On a plane or a train loop your arm through the straps on the bags because they also unzip a bag and quickly grab anything they can while you sleep. I 'somehow' lost an iPod on a train without a trace.

5. Group tours are the best so that you can all the local info - try to stay close to them - and especially at night be aware of your environment.

Set up a special Facebook site so you and your travelling companions can upload photo's...it's free.

REMEMBER to use the 'check in' button feature as it geo tags the photo to the exact spot you were standing when you took it. After a long tour, believe me, you'll have so many pictures you'll have a hard time remembering the city/town/area you took that picture especially with trying to remember a remote locations name.

6. Travel light. Leave your expensive jewellery and watches at home. No need to have them on hand 'just in case.'

7. Pre book as much as you an ahead of time. There's nothing worse than getting to a location you wanted to see and there's a long line up to get through.

8. If you're going to London download the Metro guide - it's the biggest subway system in the world and is several levels deep.

9. If you're going to the LOUVRE Google 'secret entrance' - and you'll find a set of stairs across the street from the building(s) that is used by the locals and those smart enough to find it. No signage - and it leads directly to a tunnel and shopping area inside the Louvre with machines to buy your entrance ticket.

10. Buy a cell phone package - again - just in case. There's lots of free wifi available for phone/ipad use but if you get separated from a group - or lost - it can be a life saver. Plus 'text' where possible and let your friends back home know your location of destination in case they need to reach you.

Take as many tours as possible. The Red/Blue double decker buses are cheap and circle the city stopping at various tourist attractions. It's hop on - hop off - and you can make the most of your time using them. Some have dual routes so check out what the best one is for your desires.

Defining a successful career....Forbes style.

2018-02-15T11:44:00.001-07:00

When your Father is a legend in the business - and your two brothers have a 3 and 6 year head start on you - you obviously have to be pretty inspired to 'be the best' at your craft and especially if you carry the Forbes name.

Double that if you HAVE your Fathers actual name and you think that the Jerry Forbes Centre for Community Spirit is named after 'you' - but they just spelled it wrong.

Brother Ger is hanging up his headphones at CJAY in Calgary shortly - after about four decades of success at some 'legendary' radio stations across Canada working with 'nothing but great people'.

Being a Morning Man is one of the toughest gigs in the world.

Insane hours. Pressure to get up at an ungodly hour and entertain and inform your listeners - often at minus 30; or after a long night out; and to make sure you are fully prepared (every day) with the craziness of the world factored in to your prep.

As well "serving the community" isn't a cliche to anybody in the Forbes Family.

Our Father started a great radio station and an even greater charity in the mid 1950's that are so powerful that this year, 37 years after he passed, a building is being named for him in Edmonton.

jerryforbescentre.ca

How's that for 'pressure to perform?'

Ger got it. Early in life. Growing up listening to 630 CHED and 1050 CHUM...with a goal to be as good as or better than some of the finest broadcasters "in the world."

It's a long list but he will tell you - among them - Wes Montgomery, Bob McCord, Jungle Jay Nelson, Norm Edwards, and to be humbled...'his brothers.'

There isn't enough room here to list Ger's accomplishments.

The WAB |Hall of Fame; the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee for Community Service; and even in a fun way I believe he holds the record for the most CBSC 'complaints' ever for a broadcaster - which, when you're in rock radio, is truly a badge of honour if you're doing your show properly.

But above all - day one - and on his last day - I'm pretty sure that Gerry will tell you his absolute greatest accomplishment is what he did to pay his success forward with community service.

For some in the media that means the odd mc gig - or hosting an event.

For Gerry it means day after day giving his entire focus to helping out in the city that treats him so well.

If we could go back and count the actual CASH that has been raised through his charity work it truly would be immeasurable.

Big cheques to big projects - but even more meaningful little checks or little gestures to help somebody out.

I know of many many times when Ger quietly visited a home to help somebody out who was 'challenged' with a problem.

It could be a stolen bike. It could be helping out a blind kid. It could even mean helping out another employee of the radio station and Ger somehow magically made something good happen for those people.

I'm not going to dwell any further at this point - as I hope to write a tribute to him for one of his (likely) many retirement gatherings and I'll post that.

Ger, I've been proud of you from the very first day you headed out to CHNL Kamloops to start your career - and even though you had to steal the stations toilet paper to survive those first few years - your move to CHUM, CFTR, CHQR, CHFM, the The Bear and eventually CJAY - all help to define an amazing career at the biggest and best companies in Canada.

I simply can't tell you how much I respect you.

The Forbes boys got their start by hanging around Dad's "Family" room - the fireplace going with real logs; a hefty glass of Cutty Sark scotch on the table; Dad's legendary aromatic pipe smell - and a few words of advice that the three of us have never ever forgotten....

"Don't ever forget the power you have in your hands with your radio station."

Worked for him. Worked for us.

Thanks for making me laugh all those years too Ger. We paid the price often for people who didn't understand our unique relationship working together - and many of those folks have fallen by the wayside with their careers - but I can safely tell people that even after 40 plus years in the business that you and I still text other daily - OFTEN - and ALWAYS about one thing.

Radio.

(OK there was the ODD time we may have crapped all over the other guys favorite sports team - but just the odd time eh)

We were so damn blessed by Dad and by being in a business that truly rewarded all three of us with wonderful careers, families, and 'true' friends.... and all three of us enjoyed success in entirely different areas of the business. Not many other radio families that I know can say that!

We were also blessed by a Mother, and Step Father that were behind the three of us boys all the way too - never under estimate how much of a huge influence they were on your career - many many times we needed them to prop us up during those down times.

Now bro...sleep in...you deserve it!

Calgary's losing a gem.

Love ya!

Marty

Seeing the sunset...and remembering Family and Friends...

2018-01-30T11:18:00.002-07:00

I have to admit. I'm struggling lately - with 'death.'

Don't be shocked by that statement...it's just that I've lost several good friends over the past few years, most younger than me, and these are all people who have had a huge impact on my life.

As each friend passes away it's now taking me longer and longer to 'get over' the sadness of their loss.

Everybody, including experts, say this feeling is normal as we age but none the less it doesn't soften the loss in any manner.

First off I've lost my Father, late step Father, Mother, Aunts/Uncles and those close friends of my Parents that we called 'honourary' relatives.

My Dad's brother was 47 and left 7 kids when he died. Dad's folks were just 61 and 62 when they passed away.

My Mother made it to 87 years old, and most of her side of the Family made it to their 90's.

I'm 67 and have outlived several of my elders in the Forbes clan.

Recently I decided to make a major change in my lifestyle that is reflective of the losses of my Friends and Family members by deciding to sell our Arizona condo, which we have held for the past decade.

As I explained to my friends - who I all adore down there - there are no guarantees in life and each of these losses have had a combined profound affect on my psyche that leaves me with an overriding desire to be around MY family and friends back home in Edmonton - Alberta - Canada.

My brothers are in Toronto - Calgary - and Vancouver. I don't get there often enough to see them and, as time flies, know we MUST plan better to spend some time together...before....it's...too...late!

Yeah sitting in a blinding snowstorm - or chipping snow off my windshield certainly magnifies the effect of the move - but - each year over the past few years my Days in the USA have been falling significantly meaning I'm funding a place that is two thirds of the year 'empty' at an inflated cost due to the Canadian/US dollar exchange but more so when I see '100 days' as my track record I can't help but think I'm missing some pretty good family moments every year.

Birthdays away. Anniversary away. Those magic moments that only Grandchildren can provide - like watching 18 month old Liam mimic everything that Mom Rayanne does and receiving a video of him walking around nude in the living room with a kids size vacuum cleaner 'helping' Mom simply breaks my heart.

To help cheer you up your friends and Family - and I guess the experts - tell you to focus on the qualities and impact those people you lost had on you while they were still alive - and for that it works temporarily because the quality of people that I hang out with are all 'top notch' and I applaud what they did while they were here on earth - but the true story is I'd really like to spend more time with them and 'grow old' together - somehow celebrating the fact of what we did here on the planet while we were blessed with our lives here actually meant something.

Is there a heaven? Are we going to hook up again?

When you hear your Fathers voice on the radio 37 years after he passed away.

When you drive through the Riverbend area and see the road signs named after him.

When you're part of a group that is opening a synergy centre called the Jerry Forbes Centre for Community Spirit.....

|It only reminds you of how sad it is that Dad missed seeing his three sons achievements in the broadcasting business.

Dad...we all did 'pretty good.'

|It reminds you of how sad it is that he didn't get to meet my daughters - and eventually his grandchildren.

Proud as punch and honoured at such recognition - but you know what - I'd love for him to have little Liam sitting on his lap - tugging at his Pipe - or grabbing at his ears just once in my life.

58 was way too young to leave us - but you can imagine the sheer pride I have watching 25,000 toys scoot out the door of Santas Anonymous every Christmas.

Nothing makes me prouder than seeing them help out at Santas events - or selling 50/50 tickets at an Oilers game to raise funds for the cause.

The list of those lost is way too long to properly honour those friends of mine who have passed away over the past decade especially.

I have been so blessed to have been able to enjoy almost ten years of retirement allready with the lifestyle that I enjoy. A nice car - motorcycles - place in the Sun - travelling to some of the most exotic countries of the world.

Some good gigs too.

I don't take a day for granted any more - and my entire focus for the past ten years while I have time on my hands is to "tangibly" give back to the City of Edmonton.

That's why I work so hard at the projects that I get involved in - and they too are numerous - and the people inside those organizations are the reason I work my butt off because each and every one of those people enrich my life, greatly.

So as I write my Edmonton Sun goodbye column about Tommy Banks this morning I'm just feeling a little sorry - not for myself - but for those great people I was so blessed to call friends over my six plus decades on this crazy planet for not being around anymore.

I miss each and every one of you and thank you for the pleasure of knowing you in my lifetime.

|I'm a product of the amazing people I call friends - and Family - and I just wish that they'd gotten to enjoy the 'sunset' a little more like I'm planning to do.

I'm hoping for a fire alarm to be pulled on my 100th birthday as the candles set it off in my home.

Bless every one of you for whatever small moments we spend together - and I hope you realize how much each of those moments mean to a guy who is ageing and missing his best friends and family members.

...and Sunday Morning Coming Down!

2017-05-10T09:31:00.001-06:00

I hope the weather is good this Sunday morning cuz I plan on having my butt placed firmly on the Yamaha FJR 1300, pointed west, and on a long stretch of highway doing a little 'reflection.'

Sunday is one of those rare calendar days where my Fathers birthday falls on the same day as Mothers Day.

Both are gone now but 'not really.

Dad's voice is heard every Christmas through 630 CHED's Santas Anonymous and his life is very much celebrated by having a building named after him - the Jerry Forbes Centre for Community Spirit. jerryforbescentre.ca

Mom left us on Remembrance Day, which will forever have a double affect on me.

My favorite answer these days to the question "how're you doing?" is a simple one.

"I'm the luckiest guy in the world" - and mostly because of the two people I will be honouring on Sunday.

Dad was one of the most dynamic people in the world.

Tall. Debonair. Smart. Talented. Respected.

An amazing sense of humour and a heart as big as West Edmonton Mall for the 'community of Edmonton.'

Mom was just that.."Mom"...the rock of the family and especially after our world fell apart at "1:30 on July 15th, 1961" when Gord, Gerry and I boarded the plane with Mom to head to Toronto without our Father.

Divorce. It's ugly and I guess it's why I have always had a huge compassion for 'single Mom's' and what they have to go through in life trying to raise their children.

I use the term 'we lacked for nothing' because Mom (and Dad as well) made sure that we had as normal lives as possible throughout this separation.

We'd spend summer in Edmonton - the school year in Toronto - and as silly as it sounds I apologized to Mom just before she passed away because it took me far too long to understand that, through the divorce, we had 'robbed her' of our summers together.

She never complained.

Everything we learned....everything we became in life was because of these two people.

I've made sure I passed along their teachings and guidance along to my two children as well - and I'm pretty damn proud and happy how they turned out too - and how lucky I am to have them in my life too.

Lauren (Noreen) Forbes

Dad used to say "now you know the circle of life!"

And with that 'circle' thing the introduction of little Liam into my life is simply 'immeasurable" ..."luckiest guy on earth."

Liam Boychuk

Not to make this an epic blog but suffice to say once I hit the lakeside park this Sunday, sitting on a little park bench, I'm going to crack out a big cigar and spend an entirely too short of a time remembering Murray McIntyre (Jerry Forbes) and Noreen Elizabeth Mooney (Sheehy) and thank the big guy up in the clouds for whatever role he/she had in making them my parents and simply for everything I have in my wonderful world because of them.

Happy Birthday Dad.

Happy Mothers Day Mom.

Damn. I sure miss them.

Alberta Motorcycle Safety Society - we're here for You!

2017-02-21T10:25:00.003-07:00

I'm extremely proud to be part of a great group of motorcycle riders in Edmonton, Alberta lead by our dynamic leader Liane Langlois, called the Alberta Motorcycle Safety Society.

Our AMSS Executive and Media Team

It was Liane's personal quest to help other riders a year or so back when she contacted me for some assistance with getting her message out to the media in Edmonton.

Liane Langlois - President

One thing led to another and the amazing domino effect of positivity resulted in one of the finest multi media campaigns I've ever been involved in - and the building of a great team with other team members Terry Bleau, Doug McFayden and Mike Schmidt who each bring their own skill and expertise to our group along with the same message of 'passion' for safety on the roads.

That being said it's 'pre season' and I thought I'd send out a few thoughts to people either thinking of getting into our glorius sport this year or for 'relatively' new riders anxious to get out again on their particular choice of motorcycle or trike.

First off "wait" for the roads to warm up.

NOTHING is worse than cold tires on cold tarmac.

So when we get those nice fresh warm days in March or early April please hold off for a bit and let Mother Nature take her course.

As well the road crews need to remove all the sand & gravel and repair those vicious potholes that sneak up and bite you when you least expect it.

Our logo

For new riders buy the proper bike for your riding skills and style.

There is a huge variety of motorcycles available and each is designed for a particular type of riding. City. Highway. Long distance. Off Road. Partly off Road.

You know what I mean.

Start with a lower cc bike and get the feel for it. Ride as often as you can with 'seasoned' riders to get those experienced rider tips that could save your life.

Most of all ride 'confident' - because if you're afraid of that bike or the drivers around us you're going to run in to trouble.

Second, it doesn't have to be your last bike - so 'progress' through the riding season(s) and when you find out your real riding style move into a bigger bike in the proper category for your skill level and riding style.

Next, take a proper riding course. There are some very good ones available and the folks that teach it simply will NOT let you get your licence without knowing that you are 100% ready to hit the roads

Wear the proper gear and trust me/us when we say... flip flops and shorts aren't 'proper' gear for the rider OR passenger.

And PLEASE don't use the city streets or surrounding freeways to race or show off. There are track days at Castrol Raceway for that several times a year.

If you're a returning rider after not being on a motorcycle for several years take an upgrade course.

Many 'veteran' riders left the sport years ago to raise families and when they return to riding find out very quickly that motorcycles/trikes have changed 'dramatically' over the past decade or so and you really do need to learn how to ride again with these upgrades - like ABS, lower weight bikes, gps, etc.

I've had my licence since 1966. I ride year round in Edmonton in the summer and Phoenix Arizona in the winter. I ride in every weather extreme possible. I ride with some of the most experienced riders as possible. I still learn from other riders and there is a wonderful team feeling when helping teach another rider a new safety tip or style on the road.

There isn't a day nor a ride that goes by without me being 100% aware of my surroundings - and in a world of Cell Phone/Texting and Distracted Driving you have to be fully cognizant of your surroundings at all times and to be ready to react to pure stupidity at a moments notice.

I've had drunk drivers try to run me off the road. People have thrown things at me riding. I had an elderly man try to spray me with a hose simply for riding on his street one day. I've had furniture fall off the back of a truck on a highway. I've dodge Coyotes, Moose, dogs and cats.

Every rider has had a close call and especially with those left turn scenarios OR with a driver looking 'past' you on the road and pull out in front of you.

Throughout it all simply remember that a MOTORCYCLE can KILL YOU.

I repeat - a MOTORCYCLE can KILL YOU.

So. Be prepared.

Constantly upgrade your skills and knowledge. Ride ride ride to get more confidence and experience.

Last years Alberta Motorcycle Safety Society was launched with a multi media campaign on television, radio, newspaper and digital. We are on Facebook and Twitter sharing as many good articles and advice as we can possibly can.

The campaign was highlighted and endorsed by some of Edmonton's finest media guys - like CTV's Daryl McIntyre, Global Televisions Gord Steinke, Alberta Prime Times Michael Higgens, CKUA's Cam Hayden, CFCW's Sean Burke, Capital FM's Shane Michaels, K97's Terry Evans, 630 CHED's J'Lyn Nye, The One's Steve Zimmerman, and this year we are also getting our message in to Calgary to help spread our message Province wide.

If you'd like to support our cause please go to the website www.ab-amss.org You will be able to view our television spots and to buy some of our swag or a membership in AMSS.

We are 100% non profit and all proceeds to to help us purchase more media and to assist us in participating in shows and causes around the Province where we spread the good word on motorcycle safety.

Your AMSS team looks forward to meeting you this season - #motosafety

Like us on Facebook - Follow us on Twitter @ab_amss - and please share your photos with us on Instagram ab_amss

High flying advice!

2017-02-19T06:39:00.001-07:00

I’m just back from spending a couple of months in the United States and watched with interest, like most of us, the hand off of the Government from Democrat Barack Obama to GOP President Donald Trump.

It certainly has had a world wide effect quickly so the first question that comes to mind for many of us Snowbirds is “how will this affect Canada” and I guess the easiest analogy is being witnessed with the almost daily changing of the rules, regulations, and especially the systems for travelers.

With the ban - no ban - overruling of the ban - court challenge etc. there is much confusion for travellers so here are just a few thoughts that might make things a little easier for “Joe Average” for crossing the border.

First off these poor Border Guards have a tough enough job as it is, asking the same questions over and over day in and day out in their little security booth, so be gentle. It can’t be fun for them either.

Add to the fact now that their instructions are changing daily as to what they can and can’t legally do, how much power do they have to detain people etc. and to be perfectly frank it must be stressful simply “dealing with liars” as well as trying to figure out who’s a good guy and who’s a bad guy.

So if you’re going to EIA remember a few things:

You’re highly advised to get a NEXUS card. Simple to apply on line and you will get invited for a pre screening interview; and shortly thereafter (around 3 months in all) you have been approved for travel at the highest security level between Canada and the US which, in this day and age, is now a virtual gold mine. It’s cheap as it averages out at about $10 per year. You often get a separate line at security and usually whisk through the borders quite quickly both coming and going. It also has domestic privileges.

Get to the airport early. Weather woes add to winter travel delays but this new awareness and changing of the rules means you’re likely going to be waiting longer to be at the gate.

People who complain about weather issues or mechanical problems delaying their flights baffles my mind.

Be careful of your social media posts. Border security has the right to check your Facebook and Twitter accounts or even to ask for your password on your smartphone or iPad and if you show any tendencies to violence, hate or negative thoughts against the Government you are drawing a big red (and white) flag on to yourself and they CAN deny you entry into the US instantly and for as long as they desire.

Don’t wear offensive t-shirts or hats - or convey any ‘attitude’ when going through their questions.

I now travel extremely light as well, even to Europe. Usually just one small carry on with just the essentials for the trip to make it easier.

It’s getting extremely costly to pay for luggage, both ways, and often it’s cheaper to just buy a few things at your destination. Many folks I know now mail their things back home.

In the middle of winter in Alberta you’re likely not going to need your flip flops, shorts, and scuba mask so why not?

Finally, this may sound simple....but...be patient.

There’s already a great fear of flying on a normal basis that gets matched up with the stress of long lines ups, security checks, flight delays and other distractions so go in with a nice open mind and be nice to those folks who’s job it is to get us all safely on our way to our destination.

Traci Bednard, Fly EIA concurs.

"Bottom line is to talk to your airline and be explicit about your circumstances so they can tell you what they will do in your specific circumstance. Yes, certainly Nexus! Yes, caution on posts!"

There's a lot of confusion these days so Traci suggests contacting your particular airline not EIA especially with travel bans or the like.

"The airport itself has not been advised of significant issues, outside of some confusion from travellers. We don’t receive passenger information, so technically we wouldn’t be advised if passengers were denied boarding for example."

By the way there was a Canadian Snowbird Association meeting in Mesa two weeks ago where their President tells us that the Canadian Snowbird Visa IS moving forward albeit slowly. With the Republicans controlling both houses they are suggesting that it actually may move quicker now and all indications are that the 181 day rule could be approved to 240 days (with special restrictions you sign off on) sometime this year. It's a complicated issue so I'll leave it at that until I receive further official and legal information.

The only bad part about travel is the travel part. Good luck.

A Medium done rare. I’m honored to be one of the ‘fryers’ at the upcoming Capital FM’s Rob Christie Roast that will be held on March 8th at the River Cree Resort.

I’ve known Rob for over four decades now and have a deep respect for his career and achievements and proud that I get to pile on a little fun on Rob with my Edmonton Sun page mates Graham Hicks and Cam Tait, along with media pals Bryan Hall, Susan Reade, Sean Burke and Bruce Bowie.

The roast is a benefit for Edmonton Rotary and it will be a night full of laughter and love. I can't wait to hear my favorite "sit down comic" Cam as he just doesn't play fair and somehow gets away with shots that the rest of us just can't. A true pro.

Please come and support Rotary projects in Edmonton. Tickets are available at edmontonrotary.com under 'events.'

Saluting an Edmonton legend - Dr. John Callaghan

2016-09-18T19:32:00.002-06:00

It was exactly 60 years ago today, that Doctor John Callaghan, and his team from Edmonton, Alberta performed the first ever successful open-heart surgery in Canada. The following is an article chronicling that ground breaking event.

Of note, Dr. Callaghan was one of my late Father Jerry Forbes 'best friends' - and to this day I'm proudly good friends with Debbie Callaghan (Phillips) and husband Rod Phillips the Hall of Fame Edmonton Oiler Broadcaster.

This article is reprinted from the Express News - University of Alberta - from July 12, 2010

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Edmonton--When John Callaghan stepped into an operating room at the University of Alberta Hospital in Edmonton on Sept. 18, 1956, he never intended to make history. His plan was simply to save the life of 10-year-old Suzanne Beattie. However, Callaghan and his team did both by performing the first successful open-heart surgery in Canada.

When the hospital unveiled the J.C. Callaghan Cardiovascular Surgery Intensive Care Unit in September 1996 to honour his pioneering work, the opening marked the 40th anniversary of the procedure, the first in a series of significant milestones from the early days of cardiac surgery.

The operation performed on Beattie would be considered simple by today's standards, but in 1956 it pushed the boundaries of modern surgery.

Using a modified distillery pump called the Lillehei-DeWall heart-lung pump, Callaghan and his team corrected their young patient's atrial septal defect. The pump, which ran on a gravity-feed system, had almost as many parts as a car: nearly 40 tubes of differing diameters and lengths had to be sterilized and connected before an operation could begin.

Callaghan handed credit for his team's success to the two American surgeons who invented the pump, Walton Lillehei and Richard DeWall.

Following research trips to the University of Minnesota, Callaghan and his team decided to follow Lillehei's exact instructions. "Walt Lillehei had mentioned that almost everybody who came to visit him changed something and it didn't work," Callaghan said in a 1996 interview with the Canadian Medical Association Journal.

"There were a lot of failures because a lot of people thought they were smarter than Walt Lillehei, but I knew fully that I wasn't, and we made sure there were no errors. That was the secret of our success."

Still, use of the Lillehei-DeWall pump could prove challenging.

On more than one occasion oxygenated blood spilled from the pump and coated the operating room floor. During one procedure, the pump itself failed. Callaghan took on the role of mechanic while Les Willox finished the operation.

Years later, a power failure knocked out a more advanced pump in the middle of a procedure. John Fortin, a member of the perfusion team, ran it manually for 80 long minutes, keeping the patient alive by applying brute strength.

Such events made for riveting stories, said Callaghan, but the work itself was relatively simple.

Callaghan, who retired in June 1990, was lured to the University of Alberta by University Hospital's chief of surgery, Walter Mackenzie, who first made overtures during a 1950 conference in Boston, where Callaghan had unveiled some groundbreaking work.

Callaghan, who graduated from the University of Toronto in 1946, had been involved in research on the use of hypothermia in cardiac surgery with Wilfred Bigelow of the Banting Research Foundation.

Meanwhile, Mackenzie had helped Callaghan land postings, such as a fellowship in cardiac surgery at Guys Hospital in London, England, and at Stanford University Medical Center in the United States.

It wasn't surprising, then, that at the age of 32 Callaghan was able to perform an operation many considered miraculous. Although Suzanne Beattie underwent the first successful open-heart operation performed in Canada, she was actually the fourth patient Callaghan's team operated on.

Just prior to beginning their work on Beattie the team lost two infants, but team members were confident about Beattie's case.

"We didn't have that 'I-hope-this-works' attitude," Callaghan recalled. "We planned to make it work and we just hoped the surgery part of it was not that difficult. It wasn't."

Experimental work on animals had helped the team learn to use the Lillehei-DeWall heart-lung pump properly and prepared Callaghan for the job ahead. "We knew our system was going to work because with the animals we operated on, we were able to do it."

We learned our skills on animals-they made a great contribution in the early days of heart surgery. None of us wanted to operate on them, but there was no way we could experiment on humans."

Beattie, who grew up to become a nurse in Yellowknife, NWT, was the first in a long line of successes at University of Alberta Hospital.

The first successful "blue baby" operation performed in Canada was completed in December 1956, while the first Canadian open-heart surgery performed to correct a complex form of the congenital heart defect tetralogy of Fallot was performed early in 1957.

By 1967, the hospital was performing 1,000 open-heart operations annually.

Callaghan said a study of the first 100 patients revealed the program's worst mortality rate, 25 per cent. However, the figure was considered a staggering success at the time; many programs failed because their mortality rates were simply too high. "Ours were always acceptable," Callaghan said. "The team was always ambitious and innovative."

The program also takes credit for the first successful heart valve, or mitral prosthesis, implant, completed in 1962.

Today, the hospital is one of the nation's busiest transplant centres; the Lillehei-DeWall pump has been replaced by heart-lung pumps, and the 10-hour operation Callaghan performed on Beattie takes about four hours. About 10 pediatric and 30 adult open-heart surgeries are now performed each week at the University of Alberta Hospital.

Callaghan's team handled one per week.

Although many open-heart procedures are considered routine today, there is still uncharted territory for pioneering surgeons to explore.

Today, pioneering work is being done in the areas of genetic engineering and microbiology, suggesting the possibility that heart tissue may eventually be provided by a laboratory.

In 1996, at the age of 73, Callaghan said the speed at which work is being done made him dizzy, because even very basic procedures used to take 10 hours. "Today, when you look at what has been done and research that's going on, it makes my work look naïve," he said. "When I got involved, little or nothing had been done-no one had ever taken over the heart's action. I got the easy work . . . any work today to expand the perimeter takes a lot more effort."

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This salute was coordinated by Brian Brown who adds his thoughts on Dr. Callaghan.

Dr. JC Callaghan passed away April, 6th, 2004. This was just before I retired in August, 2005. He also was awarded the Alberta Order of Excellence.

In my own career I started in Perfusion in 1972 and JCC was who hired me on staff. We had a great rapport and it was truly the saddest news to hear this.

Ironically he was born the same year as my Dad. He was an individual that had extremely high standards. Pushed me hard often. A true mentor and on some days a tormentor. It was quite the career and I have no regrets.

Here it is September, 18th, 2016. Sixty years since Dr. J C Callaghan performed that 1st successful open heart procedure. He was a pioneer in Edmonton in Alberta and also in all of Canada.

There was never ever a dull day if you were tasked with working alongside him.

====================================================================

The picture is from Bernie Snell Hall at the U of A Hospital. It was the celebration of Dr Callaghan's 30th Anniversary. (left) Betty Mah Pon a research / health analyst; Brian Brown; Board Certified Perfusionist; the charge nurse in Cardiac Surgery in the OR the late Alma Arndt; Dr. Callaghan; To the far right is another nurse from the OR Myrna Najur who emigrated with her family to the USA.

Finally, Dr. Callalghan's is recognized in the lobby of the Mazinkowski Heart Institute, among others, with a memorial bust of his likeness.

Thank You Nina Simone "It's a New Day...."

2016-07-07T11:33:00.000-06:00

I can honestly say that my life became 'complete' this week when daughter Rayanne (Forbes) Boychuk brought a beautiful Grandchild into this zany world.

I'd like you to meet my Grandson.... LIAM...

Liam Born July 5/2016

We were 'showcased' that this wonderful human being was going to join us this December when we attended the VIP Party at the Edmonton Singing Christmas Tree. During the post show gathering the Edmonton Eskimos were in attendance and proudly brought the Grey Cup with them.

Without us knowing Rayanne and Brett grabbed Grant Shaw and Calvin McCarty, who were summoned to go 'behind the wall' to take a special picture with their upcoming birth announcement.

PS: Missed by just one game.

Calvin, Rayanne, Brett and Grant.

Brett and Rayanne held that picture until just before Christmas when both parents were given a card with the wonderful news, and this picture, as their 'gift' to us.

Nothing was more precious (and obviously creative.)

The joy of this weeks wonderful news is not without historical importance.

For those of you who know the family Rayanne has suffered 'greatly' from Graves Disease and the past several years has been wrought with pain, suffering, hospital runs in an ambulance, six surgeries, countless blood tests, painful eye operations, and more pills than you can imagine.

I simply can't tell you how many days this grown man cried - in the parking lot - in the hallways of the hospitals - at home - in the car - 'wherever and whenever.'

During the worst of it my biggest job, as a Father, was to 'be there' to make sure depression didn't kick in - and I remember saying to Rayanne...

"this isn't YOUR disease...this is OUR disease...and we will all fight this together as a Family."

And we did...so this week TRULY is of great impact for me (us) as this is the ultimate high of good news and happiness.

This is not meant for pity purposes in any manner what so ever - but I want you to know how significant this disease is because several things were and are in force.

1. Rayanne started the Graves Disease Foundation of Edmonton to help others as her 'motivation' to stay strong and positive. http://gravesdiseaseyeg.com (Donation links included)

2. The decision to even have a baby is 'huge' - and I'm sure you can imagine the struggle to decide if this disease 'could' factor in to her child's future.

3. All the 'care' during the pregnancy was done through a Doctor who specialized with Graves Disease so we were confident throughout the entire pregnancy that she was getting the best care possible.

3 weeks premature - 6 lbs 10 ounces

A few important factors about this disease....we can't track it backwards...and it's hard to track forwards, however Graves Disease is known to 'mostly' affect young women so it is 'highly likely' there is little worry about Liam contracting it as he gets older.

As well with a total focus on diet and health that he will receive from both parents he will be monitored 'closely' for any signs that Graves Disease may be about.

My first email to Rayanne featured this picture.

And although I can't promise not to 'spoil the hell out of the little guy' I can assure you that Liam is 'extremely' fortunate to be part of a truly amazingly tight family who will love and guide him throughout his life.

He has some strong 'heritage' to follow as we open up the Jerry Forbes Centre for Community Spirit this fall. jerryforbescentre.ca - and I'm pretty sure that by the time he is able to walk he will be handing out packages at Christmas in honour of his Great Grandfather. santasanonymous.ca

He has very positive role models in his parents; Grandparents; Aunts; Uncles - and all our Friends.

For me, selfishly and personally?

As I said to my youngest "there isn't an instrument yet invented to measure my pride and respect for you Rayanne."

From feeding ducks at the lake as a three year old - to how valiantly you fought that awful disease - for the immense respect that people have for you 'as a loving person' - I'm so proud to be the GrandFather of this most amazing 'little person' - and like My Dad said many many years ago...

"now you know the circle of life!"

Jeremy, Kim, Lauren, Rayanne, Me.

BTW: In the 'it's a small world' category, during the birth process, Rayanne was in the Lois Hospital for Women maternity ward that was 'supported' by John and Jane Homlund - who I worked with on the JFC fund raising campaign. John and Jane are also my 'neighbours' - and the Forbes/Boychuk Family 'sincerely' thank them for paying it forward with their donation.

Get to know "My Dad" - the inspiration for the Jerry Forbes Centre for Community Spirit!

2016-04-25T14:05:00.001-06:00

One of the tasks I have to help with the launch of the Jerry Forbes Centre is to provide background material so that Dad can be properly represented in this amazing facility.

Going through pictures I hadn't seen for what seems like decades was a ripper at best - but the goldmine was in finding the Eulogy that former 630 CHED Editorialist Eddie Keen delivered at Dad's funeral in September of 1981.

Nobody captured my Father better than Eddie - and I proudly let you read about "my Dad."

The last line alone I will never forget.

Sept. 28, 1981

Life gives us many opportunities...sometimes we take them, sometimes we fail to see them, and sometime we ignore them.

All of us here are very lucky, we were given an opportunity and we seized it.

We are lucky because we all have the common bond of having known Jerry Forbes...our emotional loss should be mixed with joy today, because unfortunate are those who did not have the good fortune of knowing Jerry....which of us who knew him can say he did not touch our lives?

Jerry knew the rich and powerful, but he never abused power.

He knew the poor and humble, he recognized their common humanity and dignity.

The janitors at CHED were are important to Jerry as the skilled group of professionals he gathered around him to build a number one radio station.

There is a lot of talk in radio circles about CHED, about the strange imponderable that seems to set it apart from other stations...there is a quality that makes it much more than just another commercial operations.

Well, the mystique that has been CHED was...Jerry Forbes.

In the high pressure world of ratings and budgets and rock music, Jerry brought heart, soul and most of all emotion to work with him.

Jerry was a man's man in a sense...tall, straight, handsome, he had dignity and he loved to philosophize.

Yet, he was unlike many men, and specially men in seats of authority and power...you see Jerry was not ashamed to cry.

At our annual Xmas parties his voice would tremble, he would wipe away the tears and he'd say:

"do you all know how much I love you?" and 'oh' what a sense of humour.

He was a practical joker par excellence, nothing that hurt anyone, simply comic departures from routine days.

The flamingoes on Bill Sysaks roof, the popcorn in Larry Sterns convertible...the list of escapades is endless.

But while he was emotional and full of fun, Jerry liked a challenge, was not afraid of a good fight.

I recall a rather difficult week when clients were upset because we had revealed some truth they would rather have had remain secret, and we were hearing from more lawyers than usual.

I went to Jerry's office and he had just hung up on our lawyer in Winnipeg.

"Damn it Keen, I don't feel like David Sarnoff, I feel like Perry Mason."

Then he reached for his pipe and told me to go to it.

We were either going to be fearless and not intimidated, or he would pack it in.

As I walked back to the newsroom what Jerry had just done suddenly hit me...he was putting his job on the line for the sake of honesty and truth.

(Editors note: Dad lost two very close friends due to the discovery of several car dealers rolling back their odometers on used vehicles. He was given the choice to air it or not...and he did as Eddie notes here)

And of course he had his weaknesses...by admitting them, by not hiding them, he showed himself to others as a human being.

He gathered us around him with our weaknesses and he said...

"we're all in this together and together we can make it."

How lucky we are to have had our lives touched by Jerry. How lucky are his children for having had him as their Dad. How proud they must be of his many accomplishments...but more than that, how proud to have had as a Father such a sensitive man...a man who cared, and what more can we ask of any man but caring?

Jerry wrote this a few years ago, it seems prophetic:

I used to love to go to parties

But I don't any more.

I used to like to buy new clothes

Now I don't; Like before

I used to think my life comp;late

If a noted person spoke to me on the street

And at three in the morning

I was still on m feet.

I'm not any more.

Now, I like to fireside spot

And where the gaiety is

I am not.

New clothes? What's wrong with the ones

I've got.

It's not like before.

In the world of society, include me out.

I couldn't care less what it's all about

In this year's "Who's Who" I place little store.

Not any more.

My both say, "Father you're slowing up."

Well, maybe so. I'm sure no pup.

but my idle hours are much too few.

To spend on something I don't want to do.

For the gay, gay life, I have no heart.

Am I getting old?

Or getting smart?

There are many visions of Jerry we will carry. I forever will see one.

I see Jerry sitting in a big armchair watching the party about him...suddenly he places his pipe in the ashtray, uncurls to his full height, and with scotch in hand, I see him break into a chorus of Bye Bye Blackbird.

Jerry, the music you made, the joy you brought, is all around you now.

You will be with us in many ways, Santas Anonymous is a tribute from those you didn't even know.

The cruelties and unfairness of life that so hurt you can hurt you no more.

Goodbye dear friend!

======================================

Reference: www.santasanonymous.ca - *now delivers over 25,000 toys annually

Reference: jerryforbescentre.ca *Opens this fall.

All you need is Love...and Facebook

2016-04-21T19:43:00.003-06:00

I'm feeling a tad pensive with this writing.

I've lost 'several' good friends over the past few months - some of natural causes - some tragically.

With each passing I feel a deep pain down low in my gut - often disarmed in how I contact my friends family trying to express my most inner thoughts on their loss.

And with each passing I 'count my blessings' that I've had an absolutely wonderful life and I'm so damn happy that I have a bunch of really 'great' people in my life that I call friends.

Although I don't talk often with many of my friends the joy of watching their updates on Facebook is truly 'immense' in my world.

Nothing brings me more happiness than seeing their accomplishments - watching their children (or grandchildren) growing up - knowing at one time in my career I was able to help them get to this point in their lives - or enjoying seeing some of the fun and silly things that they post that are a reflection of their individual sense of humour.

Plus watching the social media support group kick in - from time to time - when you (or I) need help can often be overpowering.

So...thank you.

Although there is a great deal of stupidity on social media at times when you need a 'friend' it doesn't take long for somebody to kick in and help somebody else....which is a big reason why I'm on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram personally - to make sure I know what MY friends are doing and if they ever need MY assistance.

So - if you're reading this you're likely a 'friend' on Facebook or you follow me on Twitter or Instagram - and I just wanted to say a simple THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for enriching my life.

And if any of you need a definition of what a friend truly is remember this.

A true Friend is somebody who, when you call them from jail asking for bail money, says...

"how much do you need?"..not "what did you do?

Lisanne Lewis takes us to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro!

2015-11-13T13:57:00.000-07:00

I have huge respect for people who follow their dreams, put it all on the line, and accomplish great things.

One friend who has just returned from an amazing trip to Kilimanjaro, Lisanne Lewis, is the Director, Business & Community Development for the Shaw Conference Centre.

She is one dynamic human being and shared the intimate details of her dream trip with me for my Edmonton Sun Page 6 column.

Due to the length of the column I felt it best to post the 'full response' to my questions so that you could enjoy the full impact for 'following her dream' to the top of this legendary mountain.

The idea got started…

I turned 50 in July this year and about two years ago started looking around for something big to mark the milestone. I had a chance dinner conversation with Bunny Ferguson at the Harvest Gala Celebration that year where she described how she and John Ferguson trekked Kilimanjaro, the good parts and the challenges – and I thought hey, I think I could do that.

Much research followed, including the realization that, as a complete non-outdoorsy, non-athlete, I was going to need to train hard and ideally find someone to go with me who was much better at this hiking stuff than I was.

Carrie Doll, always my muse and inspiration was my original partner in all this but she had just retired from TV to pursue her own business adventures. So during a Sunday river valley walk with my favourite group of wise women I jokingly asked if “anyone wants to climb Kilimanjaro with me” and the lovely Carmelle Boston, VP of Communications at the Alberta Cancer Foundation put up her hand.

Carmelle and I were new friends, liked and knew each other socially but that was about the extent of our knowledge of each other.

What followed next was essentially a year of speed dating to get to know each other.

The preparation…

I needed a major physical overhaul to get ready and began training HARD twice a week with a trainer, Luke Logan at Body By Bennett for 18 months leading up to the climb.

They have a photo of Bunny and John Ferguson’s climbing group posted on the wall in the gym so I thought this was a good sign. Lots of lunges, squats, weights, lifting, high intensity workouts that included a lot of boxing gradually started turning a skinny tall girl into strong tall girl.

Sunday’s became long hike days carrying a 10lb pack and Carmelle and I would escape when we could (together and alone) to get some altitude climbs in around Banff, Lake Louise and Canmore.

For the last few months I basically hurt all the time from workouts.

My eating habits also changed, dropping most sugars and glutens and they even lined me up with a nutritionist for coaching and to monitor my body composition.

Two months before the climb the goal shifted to putting ON weight and building lean muscle – which was way harder than you would think.

The other part of preparation was gathering gear. As someone who doesn’t normally venture outside I had a lot of gear to buy and borrow.

It takes a village to get a girl up a mountain and so many very kind friends loaned me everything from hiking poles, to sleeping bags, to headlamps and polar sleeping bags.

Time frame and flight path…

I was away for 19 days, including a couple of days to sleep off the 9 hour difference jet lag. This took place right in the middle of busy, high-event season for us.

EEDC was very supportive of my time off, Brad Ferguson in particular.

There was a Ferguson theme throughout my climb it seems. Looove the new LMN direct flight to Amsterdam. They partner with Kenya air and the local hopper flights so I was able to check my kit bag all the way from Edmonton to Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.

When we arrived…

Two 8-hour flights, and a 9-hour time difference leaves you feeling bevy shell shocked when you arrive to a beautiful hot world of colourful sights and sounds.

I was amazed at how soft and beautiful the Swahili language is and how respectful and helpful the traditional Maaisai locals are of trekking tourists.

We were part of a tour group, joining three other people on the climb. Our tour guide Jackson picked us up at the first tented hotel we stayed at in Arusha, then we picked up the other three (all Brits) who had flown in separately, and the five of us embarked on a 2-day safari that also helped us acclimatize.

We quickly learned that Jackson would be glued to us day and night. He told us when to sleep, when to wake, when to wash, when to eat, what to eat, what to wear, when to walk, when to rest, when to walk again and would monitor us closely for the rest of the trip for any signs of injury or altitude sickness.

After the safari we left our non-mountain gear at another beautiful hotel, re-packed our kit bags and met our 25-person crew that would get us and all stuff up the mountain.

We each had our own porter to carry our bag and set up our tent plus we had a chef/ mess tent and the luxury of a private, tented portable “biffy.” Yes, a porter was assigned to carry our “biffy” up the mountain every day – and he made great jokes and songs out of it. God luv him.

Being looked after by this massive crew quickly got rid of any apprehension; it was their job to get us to the summit in a safe and healthy way and we knew we were in good hands.

The trek…

It was hard, very hard, the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life, physically and mentally. It was 6 days to get up the mountain and one day to get down. You are walking uphill every day for hours, over very rough terrain, climbing 1,000 meters each day, very slowly in order to acclimatize.

We only had to carry our day packs and water (10-15 lbs) since the porters carried EVERYTHING ELSE ON THEIR HEADS up the mountain, passing us to scamper ahead and make camp and dinner for us. God luv them.

Once we get to camp every day we drop our bags, snack, then go on a 1-2 hour higher hike up and back down to acclimatize. “Sleep lower than you climb” is the standard. At this point your legs and back are beyond sore every day.

Yes, we were all popping Advil like crazy. No “impressions” from past treks, except for the inukshuks past hikers have left at major milestone areas, which are oddly comforting if you are having a tough day.

Worst part was summit night: after climbing all day we get to Kibo camp, exhausted, we were all suffering from mild altitude symptoms at this point (nausea, fatigue, headaches), then get taken on yet another mini-acclimatization hike, forced to eat, sleep and woken up at 11 pm to start the summit climb in the pitch dark.

We climbed by headlamps, in the cold for 6 hours, then summited at sunrise. The lead guide sang beautiful Swahili songs all night to keep our spirits up. I was shocked at how much the altitude can affect you: at one point I was taking only 5 steps before stopping to catch my breath, with 50% less oxygen in the air at 5,600 metres your body begins panting trying to get enough air.

One member of our team began to see phantom animals passing us. I couldn’t stop my nose from bleeding and freezing on my face.

The guides would put chocolate in our mouths for energy, pat our cheeks for reaction, adjust our water hoses and headlamps and actually shove us up the next step so that muscle memory would kick in and we would start walking again … for another 5 steps … then repeat entire process.

The summit ….

By 3 am we had split into two groups: three of us, including Carmelle were feeling well enough to try the extra 2 hours to another summit called Uhuru.

Along with Jody, a tough little nurse from England, I was happy to continue to the original summit goal of Gilman’s point since Jody and I were moving much slower due to altitude effects.

Carmelle and I had pre-agreed we would split up if needed so we hugged it out and continued towards our separate summits.

Our guides wouldn’t let us look up while we were climbing that night because we tended to get off balance and fall easily. But on one of our many (many) breaks, just before sunrise, when we were feeling our coldest and our most fatigued, we paused to look up and there was Venus, Mars and Jupiter clustered together right there, looking huge and bright and feeling so close that you could reach out and touch them.

Then the sun began to rise, we got over that last rock, and poof, we were at the top!

I finally snapped out of robo-walk mode and whooped it up, hugged Jody and we both had a little cry but had to stop because the tears were freezing to our faces.

We snapped the obligatory photo and shared a celebratory flask of fireball whisky I had brought with me with our guides.

Aftermath…

We “skied” down 1,000 meters of scree, shredding our pants but feeling better with every metre we descended. After a one-hour nap we descended to Horombo, and the next day walked 6hours out of the park, all in about a 35 km walk off the mountain.

We flew to Zanzibar and baked on a beach for two days, then began the long flights home.

(FYI you can rent beautiful private shower rooms in the Amsterdam airport, just sayin’)

I’m sunburnt, my face is still marked up from the ice, I’ve damaged my right ankle, lost a toe nail or two and may actually have malaria. It was all worth it.

The fulfilling part of this journey turned out to be in the months leading up to the actual climb: the commitment to the physical preparation, the research, learning to hike, finding the right gear, the generous support of friends and colleagues, and the partnership and now close friendship with Carmelle.

We are planning a “Kili Didn’t Kill Us” event for November.

The adventure has changed how I feel about moving through the world.

We were told repeatedly by well-meaning folks that two “girls” should be scared about going to Africa to do something so physical but instead we listened to our strong community of dauntless friends, family and workmates who said we could do it.

They were right.

Favourite stories….

- The uniting power of football. Turns out our entire crew of porters and guides are huge football fans, Team Arsenal specifically. So was one of the Brits travelling with us, a nice fellow named Terry who looked like a Navy Marine but was actually a Barclays banker. He would put on his parka and gather around the radio on game night, with the porters translating the Swahili play-by-play for him for their beloved Arsenals, who are currently no. 2 in the standings. I know this now because we all became oddly focused on the team’s success.

- Tanzania’s national elections took place the Sunday of our climb. The porters had a large flagpole placed at the centre of camp every night for the favorite political party’s flag. We learned a lot about the election process, the hopes and fears of the locals, celebrated with them when the results came in and grieved with them when the long-time sitting current party refused to acknowledge the results that would have ousted them. There was a strong army presence in Zanzibar because of the demonstrations so tourists were discouraged from going into town.

Our federal election took place that same week and no matter what you think about the outcome, we had new-found appreciation for Canada’s transparent, democratic and peaceful election process.

---

Lisanne thanks for sharing your trip with my readers - and we are all glad that you and Carmelle are safely home - but more so that you followed through on a once in a lifetime pledge that took courage, physically demanding work, and dedication to 'reaching the top' of this legendary mountain.

So...simple question to end this...

Whats next? You go girl(s)!

Handing the keys over to the kids in radio....

2015-11-06T19:09:00.000-07:00

My long time friend and colleague Pat Holiday is writing some pretty spectactular blogs these days and his successful history in radio makes these blogs 100% relevant and respected.

One recent one covered, and I'll paraphrase the topic, with all the changes in media, distribution, ownership, and technical advances affecting tuning and programming maybe the 'old school guys' (like me/him) may not be as relevant in this new environment as we once were.

For reference the complete blog is here: http://www.fyimusicnews.ca/articles/2015/11/02/pat-holiday-talent-timeless

I was thinking about an analogy for this and it reminded me of when I first asked my father for the keys to his classic Corvette. Dad 'hesitatingly' knew I was ready to take his 454 horse power Stingray rocket on the street when I asked for the keys at age 18 BUT before he handed them over he provided some sage advice so that we 'both' felt comfortable with this paradigm shift in our relationship.

That being said I think it's time to do as Pat says - but not without some of "Dad's sage advice before we do!"

I fully 'agree' with Pat's premise but fired back a short retort to him along with a few other thoughts that I think are important before the new kids put the throttle to the floor in the ever changing world of radio.

Here they are:

Another excellent column Pat - and I can certainly identify with your thoughts on 'next gen' broadcasters.

I too think it's time for new ideas and concepts and they're likely not going to come from 'old guard' programming concepts.

My only concern is that, with the massive layoffs and centralized programming departments, these younger broadcasters still need guidance on WHY and HOW radio works - because if the basics aren't there the rest simply won't matter.

Being digitally integrated is huge - I agree - but if you don't take your eyes up off your smartphone or laptop to 'talk' to listeners; to be in the public eye; to get involved in LOCAL community efforts then these broadcasters aren't utilizing the full magnitude of the elements that make 'good' programming become 'great.'

We've all watched people gravitate to the 'legendary' morning guys at events - people like Terry Dimonte, Gerry Forbes (brother plug), Brother Jake, Humble and Fred, Rob Christie, (and many other highly successful broadcasters) whereas today most of the morning shows on radio have almost faceless single name hosts who never seem to step out of their homes or the station after hours. Community engagement still works yet it's slipping away from some operations.

Nothing bothers me more nowadays watching radio station promo booths 'shoved to the corners' at key events and being manned by street team people who are too busy playing Angry Birds or Words with Friends instead of actually chatting with listeners about the radio stations they are there to represent.

Plus, ALL great performers need one thing - 'coaching' - and the greatest losses (in my opinion) are in the mid to upper levels of Programming - so that daily interaction just isn't there anymore.

You and I got to our positions by working with and for some of the finest minds in broadcasting - a list too lengthy to mention but I'm sure you'd agree that having those people guide us along through the various formats, ownership changes, rule changes, and competitive situations we faced was the key to US ending up in the corner office of Standard Radio of which we both were so fortunate to have done.

As you mentioned in the column a great deal has changed for guys like you and me in the industry over the past few years....some of it obviously good, some of it bad....but witnessing the reaction to your columns with comments on Facebook it's clear that 'mentoring' and 'teaching' is still badly needed in the industry.

I still love chatting with the 'talent' in the various radio stations I visit constantly - and I hope they don't think of me as just an "old grey haired bugger who used to be in the radio business."

When I offer a comment most of them say "hey - thanks for listening" or "I havent had an aircheck in months (or ever)" - damn simple. If the very basics of radio are not done well or even done 'at all' some of the new found creativity will simply not be successful and that would be a pity. One other thing....there's nothing better than 'reverse' mentoring too. I really love sitting down with young folks in the business, or speaking at things like the Broadcast Educators Association of Canada conventions, to learn from the folks in the business today so that I get a better understanding of the current situation. It's win/win.

Plus...I love being the 'oldest guy in next gen' - and as you know "I teach Twitter."

There you have it. I think most of us in the industry are waiting for the 'next big thing' - something exciting, new, innovative, fun, game changing - kinda like what Netflix did to Blockbuster - and some day somebody will make that breakthrough - I hope.

If nothing else keep reading Pat's blogs - on FYI Music - and follow him on Twitter @patholiday - because I know you will learn lots from a man who accomplished much in his career.

Snowbird season is here - stuff you should know!

2015-10-12T12:08:00.003-06:00

It's been awhile since my last Snowbird blog update. Much has changed.

First off, the Canadian dollar is definitely killing both tourism and real estate in the United States currently and it’s hard to guess when this situation might improve.

Methinks it won’t be ‘soon.'

However the fact is when it's 30 below in Alberta it's likely 25-30 above in Arizona - so you can sit and freeze your butt off during the winter OR budget accordingly and come enjoy one of America's finest playgrounds in Arizona or California.

In the Phoenix area alone there are over 270 golf courses in and around the city of 4.5 million; with a wide variety of prices and skill levels.

If you hunt carefully you can find special deals and they DO appreciate their Canadian visitors so don't hesitate to tell them you're playing on a 'reduced' dollar and see what they come up with.

For entertainment there's a world class music or arts facility in each of the cities that make up Phoenix - including the surrounding suburbs.

From 'soft seaters' like the beautiful Scottsdale Performing Centre or Mesa Arts Centre - to downtown Phoenix’s one hundred year old beautiful Orpheum Theatre to the outdoor covered Ak Chin Theatre that holds about 25,000 people.

In a city as large as Phoenix stars from all genres visit 'weekly' - and concerts down there are often priced at about 'half' of what we generally pay here at Canadian venues. Most of the casinos have small intimate venues where you can see 'classic' bands for a very reasonable ticket price too.

For music lovers the Musical Instruments Museum in Scottsdale is a must...an extremely interesting venue with musical instruments from the beginning of time - and a beautiful intimate theatre were world class musicans play jazz, classical, folk, blues, etc..

Sports lovers can enjoy all the biggies - the Arizona Coyotes (NHL), the Phoenix Suns (NBA), the Arizona Diamondbacks (Baseball); NASCAR races; and of course college teams that draw large crowds too.

Whichever direction you drive in, around, or just outside the city you'll find rich history sites and highlights include stunningly beautiful Sedona, interesting ghost towns and some deep deep copper mines east of Gilbert.

If you're considering buying a condo or home in the area you'd be wise to talk to somebody who specializes in Canadian buyers and I highly recommend Gary Peruzinni who is the contact person who has assisted me and more than a dozen of my friends in their purchases in Arizona.

I asked Gary a few key questions including:

1. What's the current situation with Phoenix and area real estate? Has it 'recovered' from the post 2008 dip.

"The Phoenix Metro area has rebounded nicely from the initial down turn.. The correction high has not been attained. In other words we have not recovered completely as of yet however the volume of foreclosures and short sales have been absorbed.

During this correction many groups and hedge funds purchased much of the available inventory.

These properties have been entered into the rental pool. The expectation was that much of this rental property would be held until the market recovered. Conversely to the strategy expectations these properties are yielding higher rents causing very little motivation to kill the "golden goose".

The thinking goes something like this. Why sell and lose the cash flow while properties continue to appreciate?

Due to this and a few other conditions the availability of entry level property is down hence rising prices."

2. What is the biggest thing a Canadian should know about US real estate vs Can real estate?

"Because the US is tied to the development of Real Estate and all of the associated industries as a huge portion of the GDP. There is political capital available to support the market through things like:

A. Low down payments, FHA is 3% down, VA can be a Zero (zed) down payment
B. Owners of primary residences which are financed have the opportunity to deduct from there federal taxes the interest paid for the year. That calculation is total annual interest times the effective income tax rate of the home owner.

C. There also exists a capital gain free sales window for those that have resided in the home (as their primary residence) for 2 of the last 5 years. The maximum window varies if you are married $500,000 or single $250,000. Currently there is no limit to this exemption. It can be utilized as often as one might qualify for it. If timed correctly a person could live in a home for two years lease it for two years and then sell it without tax. The property owner could have 2-3 homes in play with this strategy."

3. Any other tips or information you’d like to convey?

"Seasonal use of a property in Arizona provides so many intangibles. What to do with the time in Arizona never seems to be an issue. The cost of living and the property taxes provide for a cost effective way to enjoy some or all of the winter in Arizona. Canadians seem to have a budget for winter escape. When doing the math it very cost effective."

A few other important things you should be aware of if you’re considering visiting or buying over the winter you’d wise to know includes:

1. Know the 'legal' aspects of buying and visiting the United States. The most current up-to-date book I recommend is The Border Guide - by Robert Keats. It's updated often and you can find information on it at theborderguide.com

2. You are only allowed to be in the United States for 181 days annually - but it's a complicated formula of what counts and what doesn't when you go back and forth. Both borders are now 'sharing' information so you're wise to set up a formal system tracking your visits.

It’s not a ‘calendar’ allotment but an annual tally and it resets after you have been out of the US for 30 days.

3. The Health Care coverage you receive when leaving Canada is different in EACH Province for how many months you are allowed to be out of the country and it does NOT align with the 181 day rules so 'know you're particular rules.'

4. I highly suggest you join the Canadian Snowbird Association - snowbirds.org - it's very inexpensive and they provide constantly updated information about the US situation. They provide Health Coverage; organize special events that you can attend for updates (and meet other Snowbirds); and have been lobbying the US Government for a modification to the Days Allowed in the US - attempting to get us 240 days.

5. Get a HOME CHECKER if you buy a place down there. Mine goes in 'weekly' - brings my mail in; picks up anything that is left at the front door (menus, etc) that would be left there for months showing that I'm likely not at home; he checks various things around the place - and makes sure the water gets turned on to circulate during the 115F summer days so that pipes and toilets (seals) don't go dry and cause problems.

6. Get an A/C-Heat deal from one of the local providers. They come twice a year to make sure that your units are working properly. I also have an ADT deal that allows me to turn both on - via an iPad app - so that I know they're both working prior to my visits - and to cool the place down prior to my arrival. These past two suggestions are 'plus' items for your Insurance provider too - don't leave a home empty.

7. Finally check your cell phone 'roaming' policy and costs as you can get a huge surprise when you head home if you have used your phone extensively down there. Usually you have a roaming charge and a separate charge for 'text' usage - so again have your provider explain their costs to you - and 'each one in Canada is different.' ie. Bell, Rogers, Telus, etc.

Be aware that many laws are very different as is the culture. A sun destination is a wonderful place to wait out winter - but it’s imperative that you remember that you are in another country and their ways and laws can be dramatically different than what ours - so do your homework just in case.

Radio managed by remote control....

2015-08-06T12:20:00.001-06:00

I proudly worked with the finest ownership groups in Canadian radio over 4 decades.

They were all great radio stations owned by great radio broadcast groups - plain and simple.

From 'day one' in my career these companies hired the very best General Managers in the business that they could find and/or 'develop' in their systems.

I learned 'everything' from these people - including my late Father who ran 630 CHED when it had a 55 share of listening in the Edmonton market in the 1970's.

Can you imagine that share today :)

A 'great' General Manager does many things to make a radio station highly successful.

He/She "manages by walking around" first and foremost. Not just in the morning but throughout the day to touch everybody they possibly can regardless of shift or responsabilities.

He/She greeted people in the hallways - at their desks - at the coffee machine and asked about 'their families' - how'd junior do at his first hockey game? - how'd the daughter do in the dance competition? - how your folks health situation was - you know, the things that 'weigh' on somebody's minds while they're at the office doing their job or trying to inform/entertain an audience.

Find me a morning show - your highest paid employees generally - who doesn't enjoy knowing the GM drove in to the station actually 'listening' to their show - popping his/her head in to the control room to say "great show guys" or "thanks for showing up to the station event last night!"

My bro Ger has done mornings for 35 plus years in Toronto, Edmonton, and Calgary and I can assure you he still enjoys a pat on the back or a kick in the ass comment about his show.

OK maybe the kick part isn't accurate but I can tell you that he still loves to learn and adjusts his show to what Management wants to hear with positive input to his show.

A great GM 'manages' the community.

Attending those 'must attend' functions. Giving back to 'key needs' in the local market. Putting a face to a name. Getting out of the corner office and 'learning' what the hot spots are in the city. Donating time or cash or both to various important causes - like children's hospitals - somebodys wheelchair that was just stolen - chatting with parents, Doctors, Nurses, kids and grandparents that all need a little 'love' or support from their local radio station.

He/She worked on committees - like the United Way for example - where 35 or so 'business leaders' OR their extended family (spouses/kids) are part of important committees 'building' the city.

At those committee meetings 'more than once' I remember discussions by business leaders asking us which companies in town (locally or nationally owned) 'gave back' to the City of Edmonton in which they were receiving 'profits' from their business.

More than once when somebody said a certain non locally based company informed us that they were not going to contribute to the United Way this year - the call went out to us with the message - 'and which of us are going to use THEIR services from now on?"

Sometimes those donations hit home hard - for example - The Bear once donated several 'heart monitors' to the neonatal section at the Royal Alec here in Edmonton. At last count I believe THREE family members (or a friend/neighbor) had newborn children that used those monitors.

GM's 'meet and mingle' with leaders of industry.

The General Manager attended NHL and CFL games - mingling with 'customers' in the concourse - listening to opinions about our various radio stations - our 'performers' - our 'newsrooms' - etc. etc. etc.

A General Manager works hand in hand with ownership centralized in another city to let them know what is "different" in this city and why a National roll out of a concept or idea just may need a little local 'tweaking' to make certain it worked in their own particular market.

And let me assure you Edmonton is different from Vancouver - from Calgary - from Toronto and from Halifax or Penticton.

Good companies listened and gave those General Managers the freedom to make those adjustments.

A Good General Manager 'fights' for his/her employees - his/her format - and his/her special needs in the budget so as not to simply take a carbon copy decision that is often made by an HR or Financial Department decision by these companies.

He/She is the cornerstone to everything that makes radio successful from a 'local' level.

He/She makes sure those 'little things don't become big things.'

The GM 'shows up' at events, remotes, and important functions.

He/She makes sure everybody is flying the station's flag - monitoring activities in each and every department. Looking good in station clothing. Showing up at a remote or event to see that the street team was engaging with the listeners and not just playing Words with Friends on their smart phone.

He/She keeps up to all 'trends' in the business - like Social Media - and stays 'active' with a learning curve in all new technologies to make sure that his/her radio station cluster remains competitive in an ever changing field.

PS: "PLEASE" put a GM's full contact information on your website and send a bounce back message email that shows that the message was received and will be responded to by 'somebody' within 3 days like other businesses do.

Social Media is the greatest free Focus Group you could ever have - and many stations often just put a recent broadcast school grad in the 'first point of contact' with the listeners without knowing what good or bad things these listeners are saying about their station or personnel unless it's something totally 'offensive' and they're looking for some guidance.

Most good GM's are actually 'on' Facebook or Twitter to see how it works and what their own employees are posting under their corporate banner.

Leadership is everything.

The Military got it right a thousand years ago making sure that the Five Star General leads - and that all thinking flows throughout the complete ranks from top to ground level.

Some of the best GM's I've worked with came from the 'content' side of the business - and with them totally in charge the Sales Department often knew they had a great product to sell.

They were also 'mentors' to up and coming Program Directors or Sales Managers who want to eventually make it to the corner office.

My entire dream about radio started as a 14 year old watching my Dad work. I didn't want to just catch him - I wanted to beat him and it drove me until the day he died in 1981 when I changed my focus to making sure my 'daughters, wife, and family' were proud of my achievements in the radio business.

When I 'almost' retired from radio almost 7 years ago I sent a note - or an email - to every single former General Manager that I worked with during my career that I could find to send a personal 'thank you' to them for their sage guidance and advice that they provided to me during my time in radio.

I learned something from each and every one of them - sometimes what 'not' to do - but I simply would not have enjoyed the various successes I enjoyed in my career without them regardless of market size.

Most of the good stuff was actually learned 'in the minors.'

An empty GM's office speaks volumes.

For all the complaints and comments I've read over the past few years about what is "wrong" with radio I can safely say that about 99% of those problems could be fixed very quickly with a simple move by the corporate giants.......if they would just put "leadership back in the corner offices" and let these people run their radio stations with local knowledge and national support.

My favourite comment from friends/peers is "why do you still work so hard now Marty?"

I'm not working.

I still get invitations to all the best things in town - suites at football and hockey games; great seats at world class concerts (thanks record rep pals); conferences in the mountains, and great conventions and conferences around town.

I do believe it's because I worked my ass off to make Edmonton a better place to live by utilizing the power of the radio stations that I was so blessed to run.

It's a whole new 'centralized media world!'

Look - I understand what has changed in the business - and yes it's easy to sit back and criticize the business now but very simply - having a radio station with an empty corner office has a 'huge' effect on how successful the business is for each and every employee, and owner.

No leadership - no results.

Or as another highly respected radio General Manager said to me last week...

..."maybe we're the dinosaurs?

God I hope not.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

About the blogger: I was fortunate to have been in Management of radio stations for 38 of my 40 years in the business - Lethbridge, Calgary, Toronto, Vancouver and Edmonton. Upon retirement in 2009 I was honored by being inducted in to the WAB Hall of Fame. In 2012 I was bestowed with a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for community Service.

Since retiring I have proudly been part of organizations who have raised over $22 million dollars for charities across Canada.

Random Thoughts on a summer Sunday afternoon....

2015-07-26T12:22:00.004-06:00

I've always loved Larry King.

His 'it's my two cents' piece ran in USA TODAY for several years and now his Twitter account is where he distributes those 'random thoughts' that often are simply just great head scratching deep reaching comments.

I don't pretend to be in his league but happy to 'borrow' his style.

Here we go.

Surely Donald Trump is a Democratic 'plant' - and the longer he continues his insane rants the better chance he will offend every single person who casts a vote.

Result may be Hillary becomes the first US 'female' President.

I absolutely love the new 100MENYEG and 100WOMENYEG concept. Corporations support the big causes well in Edmonton - but 'people' are helping smaller groups with $10,000 (plus) donations make a huge difference to these groups.

Thank you to the 100 Women who care who 'gifted' The Graves Disease Foundation of Edmonton a cool $14k recently.

Thank you to LIGHT THE BRIDGE who will also be highlighting GDF on July 28th by lighting up the High Level Bridge in pink and purple in honour of GDF.

What's happened to driving skills?

Tailgating with four car accidents is the norm.

Nobody does the speed limit anymore. Police don't pull anybody over anymore either. Nobody does 'stagger' entrances anymore and pretend they don't see you when you try to move into a line.

Cell phone/texting/distracted driving laws are obviously for 'somebody else.'

A real true friend whom I've known for over 35 years sent an absolutely wonderful email note to my daughter praising her 'courage' through Graves Disease the other day. We seldom speak - we don't need to because actions are stronger than words - but that simple action made my day - week - and month. That's why we're friends, forever.

Addiction is a terrible thing - especially for those who don't deal with it. Many friends are 'struggling' with it - often losing their families, jobs and/or careers.

Get help! You're only fooling one person!

The downtown Edmonton rebuild is grand on so many fronts.

Go see the ICE DISTRICT headquarters to see the complete package - Hotels, Theatres, Skating Rinks, Residential, Business.

World - Class!

BTW compliments to both the Edmonton Esks and Edmonton Oilers for their own particular 'rebuilds' too - it hasn't been this exciting in years. #97.

What song 'instantly' stops you in your tracks the moment you hear it? Regardless of era - Brook Benton's "Rainy Night in Georgia' is one of mine.

OK Andrea Bocelli's "Time to Say Goodbye" too.

Is there a sadder story than the Kristina Houston situation?

I was so fortunate to have met her mother in the mid 80's in Vancouver and this story touches deep with that simple introduction.

Thank you Ray Ramsey for finding this great picture.

F__K Cancer my friends - and thank goodness for all the support that social media provides to these strong people. It's nice knowing you don't fight this alone!

I 'heart' Europe. Seeing how others live half way around the world is so eye opening. I wish the 'complainers' over here got to see how truly lucky we are to live in our corner of the world.

Often what you complain about is simply 'meaningless' to what others have had to endure.

Travel is the best knowledge barometer possible.

Mixed feelings on the Canadian dollar. Happy for our manufacturing sector. Unhappy for my Snowbird friends.

If you don't have a retirement 'plan' you may be surprised when you get there. And I don't mean financially.

I'm not getting OLDER - I'm 'maturing.'

Mentoring is everything - both ways. Happy to teach. Happy to learn.

Paying forward. Giving back. Whatever you want to call it doing 'public service' brings me great joy. There's nothing finer than working with the people in the Edmonton Singing Christmas Tree - and this year working with Cam Tait and the Edmonton Sun annual Christmas Auction is already a blast.

Best book I read this year?

This one.

The superstar is sitting.

Speaking of joy. Lauren Forbes. Rayanne Forbes.

I am so extremely proud of what my daughters have become in life.

Kind. Thoughtful. Considerate. Fun. Loving. Smart. Both are so different - but both are so much the same. I only wish Grandpa Forbes was around to spend time with my fabulous family.

PS: My wife is pretty cool too. We're heading for our 30th Anniversary next February and I would not have enjoyed 'any' of my success as a Father or a Media guy without Kim.

That's the stuff that rambles around in my skull these days.

With apologies to Larry King once more - "it's my two cents!"

Love to hear yours.

Cheers

Marty

"F _ _ K Cancer!"

2015-07-16T12:05:00.000-06:00

I have several friends and associates currently fighting cancer - and like many of us - have lost family and lifetime pals to this horrid disease in the past.

Some friends fight the disease in public and get great support from family and peers while others like to quietly fight cancer while under treatment.

Each is obviously a highly personal decision - and I respect each and every friend who is (or has) faced this condition.

My personal best wishes as you each "F_ _ K Cancer!"

This past month I was offered the opportunity to review a book by a dynamic young lady in the United States by the name of Nicole Dorman who has been through a very tough time with cancer herself.

Nicole wrote a book that very thoroughly chronicled her personal situation - and the title says it all.

(Review)

"I Fought Like a Girl and I Won"

'A poignant story handled with class and dignity. Nicole Dorman "I Fought Like a Girl and Won" has lessons for all of us.

Women for the struggle to fight breast cancer.

Men to understand the overwhelming effect of the horrible disease.

Nicole not only served her country proudly - but also is raising three children as a single Mother. Not once in the book is the word 'pity' used - because she fights Breast cancer 'head on' - and wins.

Most helpful is a glossary of the many (insensitive) terms that the medical industry uses to describe the disease and the effects.

A short impactful read. Best wishes Nicole.'

This book may be helpful for anybody going through the disease currently - or for family and friends who need a full understanding of the many decisions you have to make during the medical process.

I highly recommend it.

You will find "I Fought Like a Girl and I Won" via Amazon.com:

http://www.amazon.com/Fought-Like-Girl-Won/dp/1503551490

Thanks for sharing your story Nicole - and best wishes for a 'wonderful' life with your family.

Sincerely.

Marty

"Salute to CHQT Radio in Edmonton on the 50th anniversary of the station and a great biography and time-line! - 2015!"

2015-04-19T15:56:00.001-06:00

Presented by Craig Roskin to the Edmonton Broadcasters Club!

(April 2015)

Craig Roskin son of the late 'Uncle Lou' Roskin

A thank you off the top to the Executive for the invitation to speak this morning on a topic obviously near and dear to my and my family hearts, and the hearts of the Dyck family

CHQT was born 50 years ago this year, the brainchild of two relatively-young broadcast veterans at the time, Murray David Dyck and my father, Lewis Ross Roskin, better known as 'Uncle Lew'.

http://edmontonbroadcasters.com/ebc/members/roskin-lew/

Now I should point-out right away that Murray, as many of you know, also had a nickname. His

nickname was.................wait for it......CURLY.................yes, 'Curly' Dyck!

When I spoke recently with Murray's son, Roger—who is soon to return from Arizona and regrettably couldn't attend today—I asked Roger how his dad's nickname originated and he explained that from the time his dad was in high school, he had a head of thick, very wavy black hair.

When I said, “Oh, that's how he got his nickname!”, Roger then said, “No, actually it's because Dad

had a curly dick.” [ok, I admit..............the first part of that is true, the second part isn't.)

AND NOW, THE REST OF THE STORY..................for those of you who remember that popular radio series with Paul Harvey.

CHQT staff members from the past 50 years!

I'd first like to give you a bit of Murray's and Dad's early broadcast history............

Murray started his broadcast career in the 1930s at CFQC, Saskatoon, and like most wanna-be

broadcasters at the time, worked his way up from transmitter operator, to copywriter, to late nite, on-

location, and weekend announcer, to that lowest job on the totem pole, SALES. kiddingKIDDING

After his stint with the Air Force during WW II, Murray returned to Saskatoon as Assistant GM and

General Sales Manager at CKOM. He later came to CHED, Edmonton, as GM, in 1955.

Dad's career followed a similar if not more circuitous route, having first won an 'Amateur Radio

Broadcast Announcing' contest in 1937 sponsored by CJOC, Lethbridge. He was 17 years old, beat out 149 other contestants,
and won the princely sum of $15, and, more importantly was offered a job.

He, too, was a general-duty announcer at CJOC, and later a sports announcer, working with the

famous Henry Viney.

In 1946, after military service, Dad moved to Winnipeg to accept a position as Program Director

with new station CJOB, then in 1947 first came to Edmonton as Special Events Director with CFRN,

then moved on to become General Manager of CJDC, Dawson Creek.....my hometown, by the way!

He later held the GM position at CFCN in Calgary, then a second posting to Edmonton in 1956 as GSM CHED, and finally out to the West Coast as GM with CKLG, Vancouver.

Well now that we have a bit of early background about the founders, just how—and why---did

these two broadcasters decide to start CHQT?

The genesis of this new radio station and its new music format was multifaceted.

Murray and Dad's lives first intersected when they worked together at CHED for about 6 years,from the mid to late '50s. Again.......at that time, Murray was GM and Dad GSM.

Fast forward to 1964 with Murray still GM at CHED and Dad GM at CKLG, Vancouver, both Moffat-owned stations at the time.

Sadly, the patriarch of Moffat Broadcasting, Lloyd Moffat, died in Hawaii while vacationing with my parents.

After Lloyd's death, the new regime, with Lloyd's son now at the helm, wanted to make changes 'at the top'. Now it's most important to note that both Murray and Dad were very displeased with the new direction the company was taking, and they talked of their displeasure on many occasions.

The tipping point arrived when they made an almost 'blood-brother' agreement to comprehensively investigate the potential of a new station in Edmonton.

While both were still employed with Moffat, they agreed to meet half-way between Edmonton and Vancouver, ultimately deciding on Glacier National Park on the Roger's Pass Highway. There on August 4^th, 1964, in the small confines of a camping trailer of all places, the CHQT concept---that of an alternative, quality music station for Edmonton--- was born!

The timing could not have been much better,as Dad was advised very shortly after that fateful mountain meeting that the new management wanted him to transfer to Winnipeg.

He was not particularly ‘tickled' with the idea of moving---notwithstanding he and Murray had already reached the 'point of no return'---and, quite frankly, my Mother was even less enthralled. (as an aside, it occurred to me that this situation may have also been the birth of the expression, 'Happy wife, Happy life'!)

Suffice to say that the transfer-request---and shall we call it my parents' 'hesitation'--led to some rather---let's call it--'interesting' office politics at Moffat, culminating with Dad being summarily fired. (geez, must run in the family)

Memories from CHQT days!

So, what next?

In the cold light of day, and with the realization that they must now translate their

dreams into reality, the search for investment funds was on! Almost simultaneously,
our heroes spoke the name of Dr. Charles Allard who was apparently eager to expand his investment portfolio, and, more importantly, had a sterling reputation.

The meeting was arranged, with Dad joining Murray in Edmonton, in preparation for their pitch to Dr. Allard and his business partner, Zane Feldman of Crosstown Motors fame.

The presentation proved successful and a partnership was formed with Allard's Paris Investments, with Paris owning controlling interest. Plans were then made for executing the next steps.

It was decided that Dad would be the point man on the CRTC application---and a paid employee of the new entity-while Murray would remain at CHED until the new station was no longer a covert operation.

To this day, I can remember Dad bringing some of his work home, and toiling into the night for many, many nights, working on budgets, and schematics, and perusing the engineers' technical coverage maps---and I'm sure Murray was doing exactly the same.

After hundreds of hours of preparation and consulting, the application was presented to the CRTC.

The long wait thereafter was painful, but ultimately worth it as CHQT was granted a licence for a new AM station in Edmonton.

Approval was contingent, however, on the station honouring its promise of in-depth news, good quality music and limited commercials. It was proposed to operate on 1, 110kHz---or 1110 on the dial---with a power of 10,000 watts.

THEN the hardest part began---taking all the plans, and ideas, and budgets, and human resource

requirements---and all the promises---and actually creating and building a successful radio station.

Well, it happened!

CHQT was launched on Thursday, August 19^th, 1965, from its first studios on Jasper Avenue and

112^th Street, with a staff of 13, to become the seventh radio station in the Edmonton market.

It became known as the Quality Radio Station or the Good Music Station.

The music format was described as 'Easy Listening', from 'Middle of the Road' selections, to old standards, show tunes, film scores, jazz, and light-classical, classical and even opera.

Even the commercials were 'screened' to ensure compatibility with their music concept.

The station also introduced a second new concept to the listening area, by broadcasting music in 10

minute blocks without commercial breaks, and deliberately limiting the the number of

commercial messages allowed by Government---essentially an FM concept on AM Radio.

Station policy was for the announcers to be 'low-key' and not simply talking to fill dead air, but saying something meaningful in the shortest time possible. At the outset, announcers were not even allowed to use their names on air, in deliberate contrast to the personality-hype offered by other stations.

More momentos from CHQT!

My how things changed!

When the popularity and the 'personality' of the station grew so quickly, the popularity of the on-air personalities also grew quickly, thus creating the need to promote the talent.

Murray and Dad also believed passionately in a strong and committed news presence as an integral part of the station's philosophy, including nine 10-minute newscasts per day. The early years also saw a strong commitment to community involvement.

Now we often hear speakers at a podium say, “I shouldn't start to name names for fear of forgetting

someone” so I probably shouldn't either--so apologies in advance--however, for nostalgia-sake, some

of the earliest on-air talent included:

IRV SHORE, JOHNNY BOHONOS, JOHN SCRIMSHAW,
GARRY GAUDET, ROGER CHAREST, JULES ROSS, ED KOLMAS, JOE EVANS, BOB

BRADBURN, LORNE KING, BOBBY NG, GORDON ROSS, DON ANDREWS, LARRY ROSS, STU MELBY, MURRAY BLAKELY, ARLINE DEE, DAVE ROZAK, RON DYCK, and of course, ED MASON.

And I'd be remiss if I didn't mention a 'personality' of a different kind, and that's Frank Makepeace, Chief Eng, who helped build QT's technical infrastructure, with Bob Hunter taking over in later yrs

I thought it appropriate at this time to provide a brief chronology of CHQT—the operative word being 'brief'...............post-1965 : I think you'll agree that it truly is an interesting history.

In 1970 having worked in rather cramped quarters on 112^th street for 5 years, the studios and offices moved to a location on 103^rd street, just North of Jasper, where they stayed for almost 17 years.

1972 brought dark clouds to Dr. Allard's financial empire.

A troubled commercial airline operation and an American-based petrochemical business, both struggled to survive. In need of cash, Dr. Allard was forced to sell one of his seemingly untouchable assets, CHQT Radio, which he had owned for 7 years.

I clearly remember how shocked Dad was to hear the news that his and Murray's 'baby' would be sold. Both were convinced that the station was many years away from reaching its peak revenue-generating years—and they were ultimately proved correct—however, the cash was needed immediately, and the station was sold to Mr. Scotty Shoults who was based in Victoria, and owned QT for 18years thereafter Dad remained with the station as General Manager for those 18 years until two sales later in 1993.

In 1976 the CRTC granted permission to increase QT's power to 50,000 watts,which took effect in 1979.

1979 saw CHQT's application for a 64,000 watt FM station in Edmonton turned down by the CRTC

1982 was called the year of the 'Big Move', as QT moved just next door to the 22^nd floor of the LePage Tower and I'm told it was a rather exciting first morning on air. Apparently, about an hour after sign-on the newsroom control board exploded and caught fire as News Director, Ed Mason, was reading the 8 a.m. news. The station was quiet for a couple of minutes, until arrangements were quickly made to share the main studio 'musical-chairs-style', with morning host, Bob Bradburn.

1985 brought approval for CHQT to move from 1110 kHz to 880 kHz, and would remain at 50,000 watts with an 'adjusted' radiation pattern....just threw that technical part in for Bob Hunter and any other engineering-types

1987 marked a rather special event, that being Dad's 50^th year in the broadcast industry.

In 1990, the CRTC approved the sale of Shoults' CHQT to Bill Yuill's Monarch Broadcasting, with Dad staying on as Vice President, Corporate Affairs.

Ah, 1993 The station was sold yet again, this time from Monarch to Shaw Radio. QT then moved into new digs with its new sister-station, CISN-FM.

It seemed Dad's incredible 'run' of some 53 years was now over......................or was it?

He decided that full-retirement was certainly not for him, so he started his own broadcasting consulting company, aptly named ROSKIN COMMUNICATIONS, INC.

The legacy continued...........

And just a heads-up that you'll need a program for these last few entries............

1999 saw Corus Entertainment formed from the media assets of Shaw Communications.

2001 saw AM 880 CHQT change formats from 'Familiar Favourites' to 'COOL 880' 'Good Times & Great Oldies.'

2003 saw COOL 880 become JOE-FM, playing hits from the 60s, 70s and 80s.

2004 QT returned to Oldies,COOL 880, while the JOE format moved to sister-station CKNGFM

OKAY, HOLD ON.............JUST ONE MORE, and it's a big one!

2008 On May 8^th, live programming ended on COOL 880 to allow for studio renovations and rehearsals for the All News format.

The Oldies format stopped on May 20^th, when iNEWS 880 debuted with news, weather, sports, business & market updates, traffic reports every 10 minutes, and local Internet blogs every half-hour.

As a result of that unique format change some seven year's ago, it's my understanding that iNEWS880 is today the Number One station in Edmonton...among the ALL NEWS formatted stations, that is!!

Well, radio stations may live forever, but not so radio broadcasters.....

Murray Dyck, born November 12^th, 1916, passed away on April 29^th, 2002, age 85
'Uncle Lew', born in Moose Jaw, on July 16^th, 1920, died on Boxing Day, 2009, age 89

AND NOW, the words that most audiences look forward to hearing---altho I'm sure not this audience—the words, “And in closing...”

Just a couple of friendly tips for you broadcast writers and on-air types. 'Uncle Lew' is looking down and making notes of any grammatical errors, including, but not exclusive to, the following three examples [many of you former QTers will relate to these as I'm sure you've heard them before!]

1. the word “none”, shortened over the centuries from the word “noone”, is singular, as in “None was hurt.”......not, “None were hurt.”

2. it is acceptable to write or say, “At this point...”, however, unacceptable to use, “At this point in time.”

3. and from a weather perspective, it's okay to write or say, “It's currently 10 degrees and raining.”, however, not okay to write or say, “It's 10 degrees and raining outside.” (where else would it be raining?)

4. BTW, I have a list with two or three dozen more of Dad's 'don'ts', so if interested, pls see me after the program.

Ladies and gentlemen, former and current QT'ers, a sincere thank you for your valuable time in allowing me to provide not only a general overview of CHQT's wonderful history, but to touch upon personal perspectives as well.

LONG LIVE CHQT!

Editors Note:

Craig Roskin and I have been friends since our Fathers both worked at (then) 1080 (now) 630 CHED in the mid 1950's. Lew Roskins move to CHQT opened the door for my late Father Jerry Forbes to move into the General Managers chair at CHED.

Both remained friends for life - as have Craig and I.

This was a wonderful gathering to mark a very special anniversary and it was such a pleasure to watch old friends get together to 'remember' some glorious times. Bill Bagshaw offered up a wonderful reminder of some of the things that CHQT launched that many may have forgotten - like the CHQT "QT's" which eventually ended up being the Edmonton Eskimos Cheer Team - and of course the legendary CHQT Fire TRUCK that patrolled the sidelines at Esks games for many years.

Sincere thanks to the Edmonton Broadcasters Association for hosting the lunch and for providing pictures for this blog.

Thank you - Jim, Al, and Jon.

Marty

Saluting The Spin Doctor!

2015-04-16T21:33:00.000-06:00

When Daryl Hooke started at 630 CHED they had an amazing 55 share of tuning in the market - and a cume that was bigger than the population of the City of Edmonton.

You had to be really good to get hired there - and you had to be even better just to STAY there.

Daryl stayed for 41 years...

Daryl Hooke, Keith James Jr, Troy Bowler.

We have known each other for over 4 decades, through our association in radio as Dad hired Daryl early in the 1970's at 630 CHED when the station was owned by Moffat Broadcasting.

I remember first meeting him at the station when he wrote commercials with the late Gary Draeger. I was in Calgary at CKXL at the time and one of our fun corporate events was the annual Moffat Baseball Game which was held in Red Deer, the 'half way' point between the two stations.

Many hijinks were held during the game, including painting several grapefruits to look exactly like a softball - c/w laces - which would then be served up to an unsuspecting victim who would be covered from head to two with grapefruit remnants after trying to smash it out of the park.

But the fun part was each station 'stealing' the Baseball Trophy - which was a giant "THROG" - best described as a less than flattering looking very fat and ugly stuffed Frog.

One year the now deceased Wayne Bryant and I flew up in a Cessna during the middle of the night to 'steal' the Trophy from the CHED building after the buggers stole it first from our station bus.

While we were there we erased the CART board (which was sacrilegious back then) and stole a bunch of things from Daryl and Gary's desks - including their shoes.

Fun is Daryl's middle name.

He makes you smile each and every time you chat with him with his dry but very quick wit.

His office looks like it was designed by the SPCA - and filled with toys for the many dogs that have blessed that office over the many years. The walls are filled with jokes, drawings, and other neat stuff.

Daryl enjoys life and makes each and every person he runs in to at the radio station feel special - and 'equal' - whether you were there as a wide eyed rookie on Day one of your career - the receptionist - or one of the many 'suits' that work in the various corner offices.

Through the more than four decades in the building Daryl Hooke held many different roles - including program director; social media guru; he hosts Talk to the Experts; does a damn good remote; and is one of the most versatile voice talents in the business.

In other words 'he did it all' - but that's only half the story.

Former Moffat employee Al Anderson explains:

"What a flashback: Canada's best copy and production team of that era ...Gayle Helfrick...Daryl...Gary Dreger..Gordie Forbes...Barry Allen... And of course the humble but great Al Anderson. Of all the positions I have held in my radio career being Production Manager with such a talented team was the most rewarding of all. I hope you all still have a good enough memory to recall some of the great humour commercials we did..the great straight sell....and the ability that was there to take a script off the paper and make it sound so great. Those really were " the good times"....with a great bunch of " CHED Good Guys and Gals".

Daryl has had several roles in Santas Anonymous - and very simply without his huge heart; dedication; and 'love' for the program Santas simply wouldn't be the giant community impact program that it is in this era.

Thirty below zero days - directing traffic like an Edmonton Police Service representative - calling in to do reports on the air - wrapping gifts - meeting dignitaries - playing with the kids - you name it, Daryl has done it all and done it with a huge big heart for the community and the charity.

As well you would always run into Daryl at the Edmonton Motorcycle Toy Run annual bike ride for Santas Anonymous held each September. The weather dictates how many participate each year but often it's not uncommon to see over 2,000 to 3,000 bikes of all sizes in the Capilano Parking lot getting ready to be set aside for the December campaign.

Grannies on Mopeds - Hells Angels on Harleys - this is one of the 'signature' events that officially kicks off the Santas Anonymous season, and Daryl Hooke is there chatting with one and all year after year - as did his former co-worked the wonderful late Gary Draeger.

http://edmontonmotorcycletoyrun.info

One thing I'm very happy about over the past few years is the invention of Twitter - because it now keeps Daryl busy for 23 out of the 24 hours each day coming up with witty comments or just displaying his thoughts on life often with beautiful pictures of his family - who he takes great joy in talking about, or making supreme fun of, both rightfully so.

The Spin Doctor makes me laugh - long and often.

He has a wonderful blog too which can be found at: http://darylhooke-thespindoctor.blogspot.ca

There are two things that I will never ever forget in regards to my good friend and both are tremendously important to me.

#1. The 'signature' picture of my late Father Jerry Forbes was taken by Daryl Hooke. For those who knew my Dad 'this' is the exact way many would remember him - simply iconic.

Jerry Forbes - GM 630 CHED til June, 1981

#2. - Every time I would visit Daryl at 630 CHED I'd look over to the cabinet in the corner of his office and there after nearly four decades sits an Edmonton Journal article titled "The Rock of Edmonton" chronicling the hijinks of this dynamic radio station in it's absolute prime - and there sitting on a giant rock that was placed in front of the old station building on 107th street was - yup - a picture of Dad.

I have endless respect for Daryl Hooke - both as a magnificent broadcaster - but more so as what truly can be described as his daily demeanour - a "gentle" man!

He's a great Husband, Father, and now very proudly a Grandparent.

Enjoy the next phase of your life Daryl - being a Grandfather looks so very good on you.

And 'thank you for being my friend.'

Edmonton Women's Magazine with Rayanne Forbes.

2015-01-10T17:22:00.000-07:00

Rayanne FORBES - The Condition of Giving

JAN 09, 2015 - POSTED BY RHONDA KRONYK

Rayanne Forbes
The Condition of Giving

Curtis Comeau

Rayanne Forbes is surrounded by volunteers.

She says, “I’ve always just grown up

like that.”

Her late Grandfather, Jerry Forbes, founded Santa’s Anonymous in 1955.

http://santasanonymous.ca/about-us/history/

Rayanne advocates for local charities through her Twitter account and blogs about charities for the

Edmonton Sun.

She is also in the process of finalizing her own charity and

helps local businesses raise funds for Youth Empowerment and Support
Services (YESS), an organization that depends on volunteers.

Rayanne also gets to act as a “cool aunt” to the kids who use YESS.

I first came across Rayanne’s Twitter account at the end of 2013. A local radio
station does a roof drop each winter and Rayanne noticed that many of the
items being dropped were usable. Rayanne sent out tweets telling people
how they could contribute their unwanted items to local charities.

If you follow Rayanne on Twitter (@RayanneForbes and @GDFyeg), you’ll often see tweets
that remind us that there are many ways to help people in need.

Rayanne’s story reflects one of the many things that makes Edmonton special.

She volunteers her time, energy, skills and money to help others.

Rayanne created her charity, the Graves Disease Foundation of Edmonton,

because she was diagnosed with Graves in her early twenties.

The foundation “started because I did a lot of searching and there wasn’t

anything out there for people in Edmonton.” Rayanne realized that it was

within her power to create a support system for people who needed one.

Graves disease is “a heart condition, thyroid disorder, and immune disorder
all in one. It’s life-changing.”

Women in their twenties make up more than 90% of those who are diagnosed.

Rayanne readily admits she was scared and had a good cry when she first realized

how precarious her health and financial situation had become.

But Rayanne and her dad came up with a motto: “You get bitter or you get better.”

As Rayanne sat in her car trying to find a way forward, a lot of questions about

her future ran through her mind.

“And then I decided ‘The Graves Disease Foundation of Edmonton needs to exist.’

And that’s how it came to be.”

Like many, Rayanne has faced serious economic difficulties since her diagnosis.

She doesn’t qualify for health insurance because she has a pre-existing condition.

Yet, her life-saving medications and treatments are expensive.

Eventually, Rayanne faced the impossible choice of paying rent or purchasing medication.

Rayanne doesn’t “want people to have to choose between rent and pills.”

The goal of the foundation is simple, but it will change the lives of individuals
and their families who live with Graves. Eventually, anyone with Graves from
the Edmonton area will be able to apply to have medications, medical travel
expenses, and some living expenses paid for through the foundation.

The funding is necessary because life-saving medications can cost as much
as $10,000 every year. Rayanne’s expenses are expected to grow as the
disease moves around her body and she requires more medications and
surgeries beyond the six she’s already had.

While Canada has a healthcare system, “it doesn’t really help for people who fall
between the cracks like I do because I didn’t have a health plan.”

It's the people that fall between the cracks that Rayanne wants to help financially.

Another important aspect of Rayanne’s foundation is the personal connections
that she encourages. To help people connect, the foundation holds “support meetings,
both online and in-person. About 40 members live in the Edmonton area.”

Rayanne wants to make sure that nobody gets missed, so she goes “to all the hospitals
and all the doctor’s offices, especially surgeons who deal with Graves.”

Rayanne is willing to go to such lengths because “I don’t want people to feel as
hopeless as I was.”

Soon after her diagnosis, Rayanne began a blog that shows readers how her
illness affects her. She admits that the stories and pictures aren’t always pretty.

One of the things that Rayanne struggles with is the effects of Graves on her eyes.

She says, “I’ve been bullied significantly for the way that my eyes look.”

Rayanne shows blog readers pictures before and after surgery even though they
make her uncomfortable. “I have highly unflattering pictures of myself all over my blog
because that’s what the illness is and what it’s doing … if it helps someone else
what’s the harm.”

Rayanne’s blog helps a lot of people. “In just two years my blog has almost 50,000
reads because there really is nothing out there like it."

www.rayannesthoughts.blogspot.ca

Doctors are coming to my page to read about things that aren’t in medical textbooks.”

“There’s a lack of awareness and I think that’s where I need to come in.

I hate doing media, but I do it anyways to get the word out there.”

http://www.gravesdiseaseawareness.blogspot.com

Rayanne wouldn't change anything about the last few years.

“If I didn’t have [Graves] things wouldn’t have happened the way they have.

I wouldn’t have a foundation, I wouldn’t be meeting other people, and I wouldn’t
have found such a nice community of people that understand me.”

Over the year it has taken to build the foundation from the ground up,
Rayanne’s inner toughness keeps coming out.

Rather than quit when the cost and work became overwhelming, she “worked on
credit for a long time.” Her family contributed seed money and she regularly
puts her own money into building the foundation.

Rayanne has received a lot of support in reaching her goal.

A website designer who worked on credit, a boss who designed her business
cards, a job that gives her time off to take care of paperwork and promotion,
and a family and boyfriend that support her unconditionally have come
together to help push Rayanne over the finish line.

All of her hard work is about to pay off. Rayanne has been issued a
Canada Revenue Agency charity number and will soon be able to issue tax
receipts to donors.

As important as the foundation is to Rayanne, don’t expect her to expand
beyond the Edmonton area anytime soon.

“I truly believe what my Grandpa believed: we want to give where we live.
And I’m a big fan of that."

I want to meet the people that I help and I want to know them personally.”

That spirit of giving on a local level is a good way to contribute to a strong community.

Rayanne says: “I get to meet a lot of cool people. I get to meet people who
have the same vision as me of making the community a little bit nicer of a place.”

Rayanne is just one of many Edmonton volunteers who understand the
importance of community building through giving.

For more information: http://gravesdiseaseyeg.com

Celebrity Burger of the Month - courtesy Delux Burger Bar January 2015

Santas Anonymous - Dad would have simply said... "Thank You Edmonton!"

2014-12-13T16:39:00.000-07:00

I was lucky to be born a Forbes.

I was lucky to have Jerry Forbes as my Father.

Murray McIntyre 'Jerry' Forbes

I was lucky to watch the amazing growth of his 'baby' - 630 CHED's Santas Anonymous - as I grew up as a 5 year old here in 1955 and watched year after year to see how it has blossomed to where it sits today as (his line) "part of the social fabric of Edmonton."

Being very young in the 50's I have little recollection of the early years of Santas Anonymous but as I grew up Christmas was a pretty special time of the year in the Forbes household .

Brothers Gord, Gerry and I all followed Dad into the radio business and all were geographically separated from both of our parents in Edmonton and Toronto for most of our lives.

However when we were all fortunate enough to be under one roof with Dad Santas Anonymous was very much part of our gatherings.

Often Dad would be on the phone (his line) 'directing traffic' to the crew - station personnel at their 107th street downtown location - the Chief Elf Gary Draeger for the many years he handled Santas - and/or just friends and people we don't even know phoning the house with stories.

To this day I can see Dad in 'his chair' - fire crackling - a glass of Cutty Sark in his hand - pipe firmly in his lips as above - and some Dinah Washington on the 'record player' waiting for that final phone call that said "it's done Jer - we did it again!'

What started in that downtown building with approximately 300 toys has now grown to around 25,000 toys annually. It is one of the biggest toy donation programs 'in the world!'

Three generations of Edmontonians have now been part of the experience of bundling up in the cold weather (and some years have had MAJOR blizzards) - often with their children and now grand children in hand - getting their green garbage bags full of toys; addresses and directions and heading out on delivery day.

Joel Forbes standing by the streets named after Dad in Riverbend.

Over the years, as CHED was sold by Moffat Communications - they moved out of the downtown core on to Roper Road - joining CISN, FRESH FM, and i880 news under the Corus banner.

Also, over the years, a few other 'key' people have had the reins of Santas Anonymous including Debbie Walker and now Lana Norland.

Both have taken the program to new heights; both have had several major challenges to keep the program as successful as it is today.

Currently there is a group of us who have been working on building a permanent home for Santas Anonymous, which would include several other community groups all working under one roof.

This will be dedicated to my late Father and his work with Santas Anonymous and be called The Jerry Forbes Centre for Community Spirit.

Information is here: http://jerryforbescentre.ca

Dad passed away at just 58 years of age in September of 1981 but every December he is 'very much alive' as 630 CHED airs his legendary 'A Creature was Stirring' that honours the true champions of Santas Anonymous - YOU - the volunteers and people who deliver presents to needy families in our city.

Here's a great video of how the entire program has worked over all these years.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=--T8_e6J16Q

And here's the Creature "audio." http://santasanonymous.ca/galleries-media/audio-video/

Each September approximately 2,500 Edmonton motorcyclists host an annual Santas Toy Run and thousands of toys, and dollars, are donated to the cause. http://edmontonmotorcycletoyrun.info

Edmonton Santas Toy Run - Capilano Mall

The cash donated during the Toy Run is used to buy 'supplies' for Santas Anonymous - ie. Scotch tape, wrapping paper, etc.

The Toy Run is culminated at Hawrelak Park where bikers from every walk of life - from Hell's Angels to Grandma's gather.

Each and every Christmas I take a few personal moments to find a quiet corner and 'reflect' on this amazing event. There is no way to measure my pride; nor of how wonderful it is that my children also enjoy the benefit of the name Forbes - and how his 'giving back to the community' is very much a part of their daily lives.

Every year I enjoy hearing his 'A Creature was Stirring' on 630 CHED - which is likely the longest running piece of creative on Canadian Radio. I've searched high and low through industry sites and simply can't find anything that has run on any radio station in Canada year after year for close to 45 plus years.

Finally...I'm asked often "What would your Dad say if he were alive today ?"

My answer is very simple - honest - and respectful!

He'd simply say............................. "THANK YOU EDMONTON!"

Merry Christmas from the Forbes Family!

---
The list of people to thank is far too long to list - however special thanks goes out to the family of Gary Draeger; Bob McCord for Production of 'A Creature was Stirring'; Corus Radio for keeping the memory of Dad alive all these years; the people of Edmonton who deliver the programs; and all the volunteers who help out in one way or the other year after year.

---

Edmonton Singing Christmas Tree 2014

2014-10-10T22:33:00.000-06:00

Dec 18 thru 21st, 2014 - Jubilee Auditorium

TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW

Here's the full information for this years wonderful
Christmas show.

---

John Cameron Entertainment is pleased to announce that tickets for this years Edmonton Singing Christmas Tree performances (Dec 18-21st at the Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium) are about to go on sale and this year there are two different ways to access tickets.

First off, you can sign up to the Edmonton Singing Christmas Tree newsletter and you will receive an exclusive pre-sale opportunity Oct 15-17th to purchase tickets prior to them going on sale to the General Public.

Go to www.edmontonsingingchristmastree.com and click on the FAQ link.

Simply sign up and shortly you will receive an email invitation to buy 'any ticket to any show' with a unique pre sale code and direct link to Ticketmaster. It's a great way to sit wherever you desire with family and friends at this wonderful Christmas show.

Tickets then officially go on sale to the general public on Saturday October 18th through TICKETMASTER or via the Edmonton Singing Christmas Tree website.

SHOWTIMES this year are:

Thursday, December 18, 7 p.m.

Friday, December 19, 7 p.m.

Saturday, December 20, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.

Sunday, December 21, 2 p.m.

Tickets are once again priced at just $30 to $65.

This years show features our legendary 35-foot singing Christmas tree adorned with thousands of glimmering lights, filled with 150 heart-felt singers, all accompanied by a live orchestra and some of the finest entertainment in Alberta - including the hottest voice in current country music...

Brett Kissel

Brett is enjoying a huge year after the release of his Warner Records CD 'Started with a Song' having won several industry awards including a pretigous Juno Award. Currently he is on tour across Canada opening for country superstar Brad Paisley.

John Cameron states: "We're so pleased to have Brett join us this year. Allready we are getting lots of requests for tickets to see the show and having Brett perform with us will truly be spectacular."

Proceeds from the Edmonton Singing Christmas Tree are distributed to several local charities through the Edmonton Singing Christmas Tree Foundation, and since moving into the Jubilee Auditorium five years ago more than $700,000 has been directed to Santas Anonymous; the Christmas Bureau; the Edmonton Food Bank, and the Edmonton Public School Board Foundation in support of music programs.

This years show is 'proudly' presented by Bill and Grace Knight!

For tickets, go to www.ticketmaster.ca or access the ESCT website - www.edmontonsingingchristmastree.com

For more information please contact:

Marty Forbes

mforbes07@shaw.ca

780 905 7860