Newmindspace is interactive public art, creative cultural interventions and urban bliss dissemination based in New York and Toronto. "
"All over the world, groups like Newmindspace organize free, fun, all ages, non-commercial public events. From a massive Mobile Clubbing event in a London train station to a giant pillow fight near the Eiffel Tower in Paris to a subway party beneath the streets of Toronto, it is clear that the urban playground is growing around the world, leaving more public and more social cities in its wake. This is the urban playground movement, a playful part of the larger public space movement.
One of our goals at Newmindspace is to make these unique happenings in public space become a significant part of popular culture, partially replacing passive, non-social, branded consumption experiences like watching television. The result, we hope, will be a global community of participants in a world where people are constantly organizing and attending these happenings in every major city in the world."
Their latest event was Night Lights: Higher
Tomorrow night, we will attempt to create an art installation that is higher than the CN Tower. Over the course of four hours, we will slowly raise a glowing string by balloons, attaching brightly coloured LEDs every foot or so. Throughout the event, the dazzling string will reach dizzying heights and drift gently in the wind.
Below is a video:
I wish something like that would happen in Montreal. There some events that happen, and I have attended quite a few (scavenger hunts, pillow fights, metro parties and manhunt), but these dudes manage to assemble A LOT more people (I'm talking about hundreds, for their pillow fights, light sabre battles and capture the flag for example) to their events than anything that happens here.
I'm not sure why it is exactly that, at least so far, in Montreal we are unable to mobilize as many people. There was one time (unforuntately I wasn't there), the first metro party, which happened to be organized by newmindspace in March 30, 2007. The car was absolutely packed and they managed to go from Henri Bourrassa to Cote Vertu and back to Cote-Ste-Catherine.
For the most part, attendance ranges from about 25-40 people, sometimes more if lucky (like at the pillow fight ~ 85). Hopefully it'll change in the future. If not, I guess I'll try coincide my Toronto visits with their events :P
Today I decided what my next culinary challenge will be, but the recipe calls for raisins and I've decided to omit them. Then it got me thinking about desserts I don't like (which is strange, because usually I talk about food I like :P).
Anyways, yeah.
1)Desserts with raisins in them - it doesn't matter what it is, even if they try to conceal them! You eventually find it, chew on and it, and bleeeeh. Dessert is ruined. This is especially the case for Oatmeal Raisin cookies (or any other cookies that have raisins in them) and cinnamon buns with raisins hidden in between each successive rolled layer.
The texture of the raisin is different in both cases:
a) in the Oatmeal Raisin cookie
the raisin has shrivels, dries up (more than it was before, if that's even possible) and so is this hard thing that you bite into...and tastes terrible.
b) in the Cinnamon bun,
the raisin soaks up lots of juice. It's like the raisin is trying to revert back to grape form, but it fails. So it's just kinda unpleasant and gross. If I wanted grapes, I would eat grapes.
Retrieving them is not so fun either...for your hands get really sticky.
I feel the same way about dried cranberries. :P
2) Liquer Filled Chocolate
I probably shouldn't generalize this one, but some liquer taste really gross inside the chocolate. Like unless it's really fruity and festive, imo it gives a really peculiar taste. Please refer to Gad Elmaleh's sketch at around 1:10 to 1:50
3)Jello and its gelatinous friends
As a child, Jello was my last resort dessert. If it was the only thing left at the buffet, that's what i'd have. I even had difficulty eating it when the doctor told me (in the event of stomach illnesses). It's not really the taste (which is for the most part sugar and artificial fruit flavoring), it's the texture.
And that leads me to the friends of Jello. Not that they necessarily have gelatin in them, but they have a similar texture.
a) Bibingka Cassava (Cassava cake)
apart from ground cassava used in west african food (which I really like), this was my only other exposure to cassava. I had it 5 years ago while visiting a person's place. Perhaps it's because it didn't have a cakey texture at all. I can't even really describe the taste...I just know eating it wasn't fun.
b) These little glutinous rice cupcakes?
I had them at a karate bake sale. The kid who brought them was really excited, gave me one. I tried it - mouth full "It's great! :D"...*disappears and disposes of it* I did feel bad though :)
There are three instances that I eat Jello/jello friends - Fruit jellies (they have actual fruit in the center!), in vietnamese drink Three Colors (it has green jello worms) and as a glaze on cakes (typically cheesecake or mousse cake)
4) Licorice
All types, but especially black licorice. Apart from the dessert I will name next, it's the nastiest thing I've ever tasted.
5) Fruit Cake - I'm not talking about cake that has actual fresh fruit on it,
I'm talking about that one that plagues grocery stores at Christmas and for some strange reason is often part of wedding cakes (I've been told it's for stability purposes, especially when it has columns supporting each layer).
Whatever fruit is in there does not resemble fruit anymore - in shape, taste or texture. Even the surrounding cake tastes like pure elemental nastiness. The only one that's even slightly tolerable is the one that only has cherries in it or the jamaican fruit cake (it also doesn't have those yucky alien fruit in them).
But ok, I've asked many friends if they like fruit cake and they all don't. Clearly, there's a market for it...I've noticed that it's always parents that like them. My parents do, my friends parents. So I'm wondering: is there a point in time where people suddendly like fruit cake? Like, do you have kids and then like it? I'd like to know and try to prevent this from happening.
I think that's all I can think of for now. If you have any other gross desserts, please name em :) I'm curious.
Anyways, yeah.
1)Desserts with raisins in them - it doesn't matter what it is, even if they try to conceal them! You eventually find it, chew on and it, and bleeeeh. Dessert is ruined. This is especially the case for Oatmeal Raisin cookies (or any other cookies that have raisins in them) and cinnamon buns with raisins hidden in between each successive rolled layer.
The texture of the raisin is different in both cases:
a) in the Oatmeal Raisin cookie
the raisin has shrivels, dries up (more than it was before, if that's even possible) and so is this hard thing that you bite into...and tastes terrible.
b) in the Cinnamon bun,
the raisin soaks up lots of juice. It's like the raisin is trying to revert back to grape form, but it fails. So it's just kinda unpleasant and gross. If I wanted grapes, I would eat grapes.
Retrieving them is not so fun either...for your hands get really sticky.
I feel the same way about dried cranberries. :P
2) Liquer Filled Chocolate
I probably shouldn't generalize this one, but some liquer taste really gross inside the chocolate. Like unless it's really fruity and festive, imo it gives a really peculiar taste. Please refer to Gad Elmaleh's sketch at around 1:10 to 1:50
3)Jello and its gelatinous friends
As a child, Jello was my last resort dessert. If it was the only thing left at the buffet, that's what i'd have. I even had difficulty eating it when the doctor told me (in the event of stomach illnesses). It's not really the taste (which is for the most part sugar and artificial fruit flavoring), it's the texture.
And that leads me to the friends of Jello. Not that they necessarily have gelatin in them, but they have a similar texture.
a) Bibingka Cassava (Cassava cake)
apart from ground cassava used in west african food (which I really like), this was my only other exposure to cassava. I had it 5 years ago while visiting a person's place. Perhaps it's because it didn't have a cakey texture at all. I can't even really describe the taste...I just know eating it wasn't fun.
b) These little glutinous rice cupcakes?
I had them at a karate bake sale. The kid who brought them was really excited, gave me one. I tried it - mouth full "It's great! :D"...*disappears and disposes of it* I did feel bad though :)
There are three instances that I eat Jello/jello friends - Fruit jellies (they have actual fruit in the center!), in vietnamese drink Three Colors (it has green jello worms) and as a glaze on cakes (typically cheesecake or mousse cake)
4) Licorice
All types, but especially black licorice. Apart from the dessert I will name next, it's the nastiest thing I've ever tasted.
5) Fruit Cake - I'm not talking about cake that has actual fresh fruit on it,
I'm talking about that one that plagues grocery stores at Christmas and for some strange reason is often part of wedding cakes (I've been told it's for stability purposes, especially when it has columns supporting each layer). Whatever fruit is in there does not resemble fruit anymore - in shape, taste or texture. Even the surrounding cake tastes like pure elemental nastiness. The only one that's even slightly tolerable is the one that only has cherries in it or the jamaican fruit cake (it also doesn't have those yucky alien fruit in them).
But ok, I've asked many friends if they like fruit cake and they all don't. Clearly, there's a market for it...I've noticed that it's always parents that like them. My parents do, my friends parents. So I'm wondering: is there a point in time where people suddendly like fruit cake? Like, do you have kids and then like it? I'd like to know and try to prevent this from happening.
I think that's all I can think of for now. If you have any other gross desserts, please name em :) I'm curious.
Hiya!
I'm procrastinating:
I'm supposed to be writing a research proposal - well actually first, reading articles to be able to produce the aforementioned piece of work.
So I'm transferring data to a portable hard drive to copy to my new laptop and I've decided to address this question.
It's something that comes up in conversations with people often enough, whether you've known them for a long time or not. I'm usually not sure what to answer. I've had ideas...but never really settled on anything.
In the past I've thought about Japan (when I was watching anime lots - over 6 years ago), then Iceland (I still think it's cool - but was more into it 1-2 years ago), Greece (after I saw Mama Mia...it looked really pretty), Spain (just dude man) and Brazil (but the crime rate is a little frightening). I've also thought about Europe in general (people who I know have gone there to visit/take tours...seems cool enough).
Yesterday, while in my Biology class, my project partner (he's from Ecuador) decided to ask me that very question. I said I wasn't sure. Then he said "What about in South America?" So, out of nowhere I said Chile.
He asked why? I said because it's long and has volcanoes. He started laughing. But then I decided to look up stuff about Chile. Now, I probably shouldn't base my opinion about a country on a couple articles, but there's one in particular that makes it sound like pure awesomeness!
Check it out:
Santiago, Chile is a city with well over 5 million people. It’s one of the most advanced cities I’ve ever lived in. It’s also one of the cleanest cities I have ever observed.
The doctors here take the practice of medicine extremely serious, like being an artist taking art to an almost spiritual level, and no they don’t play golf. If you wind up in the hospital for something here, you’ll be in good hands. Again, I know from first hand experience. Here, they’re not concerned about your Medical card and all that red tape crap you would face in the states, here they put the patients’ health first, money matters later.
Chileans are a nocturnal people. Once you make a few friends, it’s not uncommon for people to come by your house late at night and stay late. This was something I had to get used to. Fridays are usually the days that you’ll have an unexpected guest. They may just drop over for a cup of tea…………at 11pm and stay till 2am. This is considered normal so if you are not a nightowl, develop the habit.
It’s easy to find a place to live, with a little persistence, an apartment was secured with a rent of approximately $200 dollars monthly. It’s an older building but very clean and well maintained.
If you don’t own a car, no problem the public transportation is absolutely the best. Buses run in all directions very frequently and all night. If you miss a bus to downtown, not to worry, your wait time for the next one will be about ten minutes max. They begin to run a bit slower after about 2am though. The fare: 330 Pesos, again, less than 50 cents. There is a subway system, and it is rivaled only by the English Tube. The trains are on time, speedy and very clean. You’ll find no graffiti on them. They’ll take you just about anywhere you want to go. I’ll tell you now, the buses and subways are always crowded. Expect close quarters on public transportation at all times.
Those are just a few of the things that seem really cool about it. It's clean, has public transportation, people seem laid back (and they like tea!), the scenery look amazing! Nice doctors, the police are generally not corrupt, so many different climates to visit, phone/internet/rent are not terrible and amaaaaazing food (or so he says) :P
Perhaps I'll settle on another place for my "Where would you like to go?" answer, but for the moment I'm feeling very Chilean.
I also found a blog where someone shows pics from there/adventures. It's pretty new...but still cool.
So, now I have to try Chilean food (apart from empanadas).
I'm procrastinating:
I'm supposed to be writing a research proposal - well actually first, reading articles to be able to produce the aforementioned piece of work.
So I'm transferring data to a portable hard drive to copy to my new laptop and I've decided to address this question.
It's something that comes up in conversations with people often enough, whether you've known them for a long time or not. I'm usually not sure what to answer. I've had ideas...but never really settled on anything.
In the past I've thought about Japan (when I was watching anime lots - over 6 years ago), then Iceland (I still think it's cool - but was more into it 1-2 years ago), Greece (after I saw Mama Mia...it looked really pretty), Spain (just dude man) and Brazil (but the crime rate is a little frightening). I've also thought about Europe in general (people who I know have gone there to visit/take tours...seems cool enough).
Yesterday, while in my Biology class, my project partner (he's from Ecuador) decided to ask me that very question. I said I wasn't sure. Then he said "What about in South America?" So, out of nowhere I said Chile.
He asked why? I said because it's long and has volcanoes. He started laughing. But then I decided to look up stuff about Chile. Now, I probably shouldn't base my opinion about a country on a couple articles, but there's one in particular that makes it sound like pure awesomeness!
Check it out:
Santiago, Chile is a city with well over 5 million people. It’s one of the most advanced cities I’ve ever lived in. It’s also one of the cleanest cities I have ever observed.
The doctors here take the practice of medicine extremely serious, like being an artist taking art to an almost spiritual level, and no they don’t play golf. If you wind up in the hospital for something here, you’ll be in good hands. Again, I know from first hand experience. Here, they’re not concerned about your Medical card and all that red tape crap you would face in the states, here they put the patients’ health first, money matters later.
Chileans are a nocturnal people. Once you make a few friends, it’s not uncommon for people to come by your house late at night and stay late. This was something I had to get used to. Fridays are usually the days that you’ll have an unexpected guest. They may just drop over for a cup of tea…………at 11pm and stay till 2am. This is considered normal so if you are not a nightowl, develop the habit.
It’s easy to find a place to live, with a little persistence, an apartment was secured with a rent of approximately $200 dollars monthly. It’s an older building but very clean and well maintained.
If you don’t own a car, no problem the public transportation is absolutely the best. Buses run in all directions very frequently and all night. If you miss a bus to downtown, not to worry, your wait time for the next one will be about ten minutes max. They begin to run a bit slower after about 2am though. The fare: 330 Pesos, again, less than 50 cents. There is a subway system, and it is rivaled only by the English Tube. The trains are on time, speedy and very clean. You’ll find no graffiti on them. They’ll take you just about anywhere you want to go. I’ll tell you now, the buses and subways are always crowded. Expect close quarters on public transportation at all times.
Those are just a few of the things that seem really cool about it. It's clean, has public transportation, people seem laid back (and they like tea!), the scenery look amazing! Nice doctors, the police are generally not corrupt, so many different climates to visit, phone/internet/rent are not terrible and amaaaaazing food (or so he says) :P
Perhaps I'll settle on another place for my "Where would you like to go?" answer, but for the moment I'm feeling very Chilean.
I also found a blog where someone shows pics from there/adventures. It's pretty new...but still cool.
So, now I have to try Chilean food (apart from empanadas).
Following her adventure the previous night, Anti-Rocks set out on another adventure. She had not gone on her bike in a while and decided to take in the premium fall air and scenery on wheels. She made her way to the institution known for its steep hills, colorful interiors and mastery of technology. She determined at that this point that she requires more practice, for it took her a while to climb the hills. As a short cut to the famous mountain of the Village of Montreal, she rode through the Cemetery. It was a generally nice ride and she was undisturbed by visitors and the dead. She, in return, did not disturb them. After her nice ride, she arrived at the Pirate’s and Western Redhead’s dwelling for Sushi making. They were successful in their task and were incredibly full. Anti-Rocks thought that the Halloween spirit had finally left and did not expect any more strangeness to come.
She continued her week as planned, visiting the previously mentioned institution and also to the Heart Institute for a field trip. In the middle of the week, Anti-Rocks once again met with the Free-Spirited Zoologist for tea at a new place suggested by another one of her friends. Paw and the Zoologist’s friend were unable to attend due to other engagements. They made their way to the place known as “Potion du Shaman”, or so they thought. Anti-Rocks had written down the address “1699 St-Denis”, but in that spot was Café Houkha – a place which that had tried before. If Anti-Rocks did not know better, she would’ve assumed that Mercury was retrograde. The Zoologist called her friend to confirm and indeed that was the spot and her friend theorized that the place she was talking about was perhaps only the bottom part. In any case, as they had tried the place before, they decided to set off to try another. The Free-Spirited Zoologist was curious about a Café run by Gypsies (Café Gitana) and naturally it was not well lit. They sat down and observed the menu for about 5 minutes and concluded that they were hungry, but all that the place served was dessert. So they left, initially going to a Tibetan place, but they got distracted by the Korean Food place beside it called 5000 ans. Anti-Rocks was excited – she would be able to compare all the Korean Restaurants she had tried. Upon reading the menu, she was surprised to find many dishes she did not know, ones she had not heard of. In addition, they were served a drink that tasted like coffee, but looked like tea and it was cold – Wheat Tea. They asked the waitress where it could be acquired, but she did not know.
Unlike other Korean places, they did not serve you the traditional appetizers of Kimchi, sprouts and potatoes. We got Miso soup and then our dishes, which were nothing short of delicious. In addition their décor was cute (there were goji berries in a bowl, which I’m certain customers where not allowed to eat for they are quite expensive). They left this spot and returned to the gypsies. They were pleased to find their old spot vacant and stole it. They ordered Mint tea (the way Anti-Rocks likes it – in the glass cups with little spoons and the metal tea pot. It had a very strong minty flavor and little cubes of brown sugar on the side). In addition, the Zoologist ordered a double apple flavored dose of Shisha and let Anti-Rocks try. She had never done so before, and so agreed. They sat there for a while and by the end of the night became somewhat drowsy. More specifically, the Free-Spirited Zoologist said “I’m floating on clouds” and Anti-Rocks was generally incoherent, sometimes mixing her words or just being slow. Apparently that’s what happens when you don’t smoke and the whole room is smoking too. After our tea, we decided we needed air and set out on another adventure. We decided to investigate if the misty fountain was still functioning. The walk went well – they made a short stop for the Zoologist to buy ice cream and Anti-Rocks a bottle of water. Following that, the two had damn tea alerts and decided to go into the Congress Palace which is clearly distinguishable by its colorful exterior. Upon entering the building, Anti-Rox was overcome with glee to find herself in the presence of the Magical Pink Forest, as foretold in the Great Scavenger Hunt in February passed. She had only heard of it, but not witnessed herself. The travelers were curious and so the Zoologist ran through the pink trees and hugged one. At one point though, they decided to continue their hunt for damn tea facilities. They found one – and as in the past, it was locked. Anti-Rocks was sad and they decided to come up with another plan. At that moment, they heard a loud scream, as if someone was being tortured. The Free-Spirited Zoologist set off running, but rammed into a nearby water fountain. It is possible she will be bruised – only time will tell. Anti-Rocks determined that they were cursed, for this is the second time this has happened (locked bathrooms and scary noises). Would there be a third time? Perhaps. But until then, it seems the spirits of Halloween have finally left.
She continued her week as planned, visiting the previously mentioned institution and also to the Heart Institute for a field trip. In the middle of the week, Anti-Rocks once again met with the Free-Spirited Zoologist for tea at a new place suggested by another one of her friends. Paw and the Zoologist’s friend were unable to attend due to other engagements. They made their way to the place known as “Potion du Shaman”, or so they thought. Anti-Rocks had written down the address “1699 St-Denis”, but in that spot was Café Houkha – a place which that had tried before. If Anti-Rocks did not know better, she would’ve assumed that Mercury was retrograde. The Zoologist called her friend to confirm and indeed that was the spot and her friend theorized that the place she was talking about was perhaps only the bottom part. In any case, as they had tried the place before, they decided to set off to try another. The Free-Spirited Zoologist was curious about a Café run by Gypsies (Café Gitana) and naturally it was not well lit. They sat down and observed the menu for about 5 minutes and concluded that they were hungry, but all that the place served was dessert. So they left, initially going to a Tibetan place, but they got distracted by the Korean Food place beside it called 5000 ans. Anti-Rocks was excited – she would be able to compare all the Korean Restaurants she had tried. Upon reading the menu, she was surprised to find many dishes she did not know, ones she had not heard of. In addition, they were served a drink that tasted like coffee, but looked like tea and it was cold – Wheat Tea. They asked the waitress where it could be acquired, but she did not know.
Unlike other Korean places, they did not serve you the traditional appetizers of Kimchi, sprouts and potatoes. We got Miso soup and then our dishes, which were nothing short of delicious. In addition their décor was cute (there were goji berries in a bowl, which I’m certain customers where not allowed to eat for they are quite expensive). They left this spot and returned to the gypsies. They were pleased to find their old spot vacant and stole it. They ordered Mint tea (the way Anti-Rocks likes it – in the glass cups with little spoons and the metal tea pot. It had a very strong minty flavor and little cubes of brown sugar on the side). In addition, the Zoologist ordered a double apple flavored dose of Shisha and let Anti-Rocks try. She had never done so before, and so agreed. They sat there for a while and by the end of the night became somewhat drowsy. More specifically, the Free-Spirited Zoologist said “I’m floating on clouds” and Anti-Rocks was generally incoherent, sometimes mixing her words or just being slow. Apparently that’s what happens when you don’t smoke and the whole room is smoking too. After our tea, we decided we needed air and set out on another adventure. We decided to investigate if the misty fountain was still functioning. The walk went well – they made a short stop for the Zoologist to buy ice cream and Anti-Rocks a bottle of water. Following that, the two had damn tea alerts and decided to go into the Congress Palace which is clearly distinguishable by its colorful exterior. Upon entering the building, Anti-Rox was overcome with glee to find herself in the presence of the Magical Pink Forest, as foretold in the Great Scavenger Hunt in February passed. She had only heard of it, but not witnessed herself. The travelers were curious and so the Zoologist ran through the pink trees and hugged one. At one point though, they decided to continue their hunt for damn tea facilities. They found one – and as in the past, it was locked. Anti-Rocks was sad and they decided to come up with another plan. At that moment, they heard a loud scream, as if someone was being tortured. The Free-Spirited Zoologist set off running, but rammed into a nearby water fountain. It is possible she will be bruised – only time will tell. Anti-Rocks determined that they were cursed, for this is the second time this has happened (locked bathrooms and scary noises). Would there be a third time? Perhaps. But until then, it seems the spirits of Halloween have finally left.
The day after, Anti-Rocks and Paw along with others (The Cheerful Healer, Manna the Calm, Indifferent Duc and The Free-spirited Zoologist) congregated at the Pink Room (La Sala Rosa) for the degustation of food from the Spaniards and the celebrating of Paw’s birth. Unfortunately, the Tall Economist was unable to attend due to illness. During the degustation, the congregation made a point of embarrassing Paw by singing the traditional birth song. The food was well liked by all – it consisted of a curried pumpkin and coconut soup, various types of Paella (rice dishes), tortillas (but here they are essentially omelets), a steak, melt-in-your-mouth salmon and finally Flan for all. What was particularly premium about this Flan was the fact that it did not have the consistency of silken tofu throughout. It had certain firmness on the surface and the inside was nice and melty. In addition, the caramel infiltrated the structure well, making for the best Flan they have ever tried (or at least for some of them).
After they ended their food adventure, Anti-Rocks and the Free-Spirited Zoologist had another adventure to set out on. They left the Pink room wearing Green hair and a one eared Fox headdress. Their mission: to go to a secluded music hall (that they were invited to) and amuse the cousin of the Free-Spirited Zoologist: The Torontonian Manager (the person who invited them). The music hall is in an area of the village known to the villagers for its unsafeness due to roaming gremlins, abandoned buildings and lack of light. However, this did not seem to phase the brave travelers. Hopefully the Fox would scare off any gremlins. Upon arrival to the transfer station, they boarded the bus. To ensure their proper arrival, the Free-Spirited Zoologist asked the bus driver to inform us of the stop. He replied affirmatively – saying that the stop is less than 5 minutes away and is before the tunnels. He also said that he hopes we are not scared of the dark. This slightly worried Anti-Rocks, for she had never ventured into the area and certainly not at night. However, they arrived safely at their destination. Anti-Rocks’ first impression was that it was generally badly vegetated – mostly barren land. She had not noticed the Music Hall until the Zoologist pointed it out.
They entered and noticed two somewhat laid-back money guardians (which we later found out were musicians as well). The Free-spirited one inquired as to whether her dear cousin was there and they invited us to search for ourselves. As they entered the room where music was to be played, they were noticed by a familiar musician – The Wandering Spirit. He greeted them warmly and asked of their news, past and present. It appears however, much to their dismay that the Torontonian Manager was not there. It seems that the creator of the event must say they are attending even if they are not. And so, their mission to amuse the cousin was no more. And so, they sat down as the first act was to start (there were to be three). The general tone of the evening was warm and folky. Anti-Rocks had brought sweet provisions with her in the form of chocolate covered marzipan and little mars bars. So, they ate them (with the exception of 2 mars bars).
At one point, Anti-Rocks had a damn tea moment. In fact, she had had it during the journey to the secluded music hall, but was not able to do anything about it prior to the intermission following the first act. So, after paying for the show, she made her way to the women’s outhouse. Much to her dismay it was locked. So she waited. And waited. And waited. She then caught a look of the men’s outhouse and noticed stalls (unless her eyes betrayed her) and wondered “If there are stalls in the washroom, why would the door be locked?” This slightly angered her, for she had damn tea and also wanted to get rid of her gum. She decided to explain her case to the Zoologist who accompanied her to investigate the situation. Naturally, once Anti-Rocks brought her to the scene, the door was unlocked. With glee, she sped to the door of the washroom. At that point, the Wandering Spirit inquired if there was an outhouse party. Anti-rocks tried to explain, but was generally incoherent:
“Well, I went to the outhouse and the door was locked and I didn’t understand why…”.
”Well, sometimes it appears locked, but is just slightly jammed”
”I tried really hard, and it wouldn’t open and yeah…eeee” And Anti-Rocks dashed in while the Zoologist, the Wandering Spirit and the guardians of money chuckled. Following that, Anti-Rocks made her way back to her table in time for the next act, which was the Wandering Spirit. He arrived on stage (with his other band mates) with a truly terrifying mask (like a sinister yoda with lots of gray hair and a beard). However, this was extremely amusing as the voice behind the terrifying mask was singing very sweetly – which doesn’t match very well. The crowd was greatly amused and could not contain their laughter. As such, the Wandering Spirit gave up and threw the mask off because he could not concentrate. After that song, he asked why no one was dressed up for Halloween, except for Anti-Rocks who had green hair. The crowd answered that it was yesterday. He concurred, but still believed that the spirit of Halloween should continue.
In between the 2nd and 3rd act, Anti-Rocks and the Free-Sprited Zoologist, now infused with lots of sucrose, decided to play a game known as Table Hockey with the beer coasters. They did this with much glee, spouting random phrases in Spanish (possibly inspired by their previous meal) and cheering for their goals. Sometimes the coasters flew off the table and in some occasions flew into fellow music listeners. They were generally amused though and did not protest. Anti-Rocks’ incoherency continued, as the first musician asked what we were doing, and she replied “Hockey Table!...coasters…”. It seems that he got the general idea. The final act was also nice, but generally more subdued and somewhat sleepy. The concert ended and The Free-Spirited Zoologist decided to greet a friend she randomly encountered there – a violinist who was playing that night. As Anti-Rocks and the Zoologist were incapable of consuming more sucrose infused provisions, Anti-Rocks offered a Mars bar (yes, Mars indeed made of chocolate) to her. She was quite pleased. The remaining planetary treat would go to the Wandering Spirit. So, we found him and informed him of our incoming departure. As usual, he embraced us warmly. Anti-Rocks then presented him with the candy. He thanked her, but then professed that he felt ill the night before. The Zoologist inquired as to whether it was candy related and he confirmed. As such, Anti-Rocks with the most serious face she could muster said “Well, if you don’t want it, you can always give it back” and held her right arm out. She smiled shortly after to indicate her sarcasm. The Wandering Spirit chuckled and said “No! I’ll eat it right away” and then he wished the brave travelers a safe trip home (he had gotten lost earlier that evening).
So, they set out. The Free-Spirited one had an idea – let us walk back to the transportation station known as Place St-Henri rather than take the bus! (Even though it was 11:35 pm. Naturally, they are not scared of the dark). Under normal circumstances Anti-Rocks would not have done this, but she figured “I suppose we are two. So it’s not so bad and you’re a fox and I have green hair. Clearly mutants of some sort”. She had drawn a make-shift map earlier in the evening in the event that she would have to walk. So she was confident that they’d find their way. However, it seems that the Halloween Spirits had different plans for them. They arrived at the cross section of St Remi and Notre Dame as indicated on the map. They then walked forward on Notre Dame and continued on for some time. Anti-Rocks was a little worried and thought maybe they missed the street they were supposed to turn on (Ste Marguerite). So, they reasoned that if they were indeed going in the right direction, if they continued, they would end up at the next transport station: Lionel-Groulx. So onward they went – on small side walks, under underpasses…until they found themselves on the side road of the highway 20 – there is not much there: mostly industries and barren land. They found out at that time that they had turned in the wrong direction on Notre Dame. Now, it is not unusual (rather frequent) that the Free-Spirited Zoologist loses her way. This doesn’t usually happen to Anti-Rocks though. They figured though, that they’ll find their way somehow. They continued walking leisurely while Anti-Rocks told the Zoologist about a sad film she had seen not long ago with the Cheerful Healer. In the midst of her story though, a loud noise was heard – something akin to a creature (man or beast) being slammed against a metal door. Anti-Rocks was startled and let out a little scream, while the Zoologist ran off. Anti-Rocks followed soon after attempting to catch up. They ran for about 2 minutes and determined that they had escaped peril. In the distance, they spotted a bus stop and decided to see what time it would arrive. Luckily, they only had 8 minutes to wait. The hid themselves in the bus shelter and awaited the vehicle. It arrived as predicted at 12:08 am. On board was a strange looking driver and two people – apart from that, entirely empty. Anti-Rocks determined that it must be a ghost bus. The bus arrived at Place St-Henri but did not stop. However, fear not, the travelers were not kidnapped. Instead the bus brought them to Lionel-Groulx, which proved convenient for the Free-Spirited Zoologist. Following their arrival to the transportation station, they made their way home safely and unharmed – at least for now.
After they ended their food adventure, Anti-Rocks and the Free-Spirited Zoologist had another adventure to set out on. They left the Pink room wearing Green hair and a one eared Fox headdress. Their mission: to go to a secluded music hall (that they were invited to) and amuse the cousin of the Free-Spirited Zoologist: The Torontonian Manager (the person who invited them). The music hall is in an area of the village known to the villagers for its unsafeness due to roaming gremlins, abandoned buildings and lack of light. However, this did not seem to phase the brave travelers. Hopefully the Fox would scare off any gremlins. Upon arrival to the transfer station, they boarded the bus. To ensure their proper arrival, the Free-Spirited Zoologist asked the bus driver to inform us of the stop. He replied affirmatively – saying that the stop is less than 5 minutes away and is before the tunnels. He also said that he hopes we are not scared of the dark. This slightly worried Anti-Rocks, for she had never ventured into the area and certainly not at night. However, they arrived safely at their destination. Anti-Rocks’ first impression was that it was generally badly vegetated – mostly barren land. She had not noticed the Music Hall until the Zoologist pointed it out.
They entered and noticed two somewhat laid-back money guardians (which we later found out were musicians as well). The Free-spirited one inquired as to whether her dear cousin was there and they invited us to search for ourselves. As they entered the room where music was to be played, they were noticed by a familiar musician – The Wandering Spirit. He greeted them warmly and asked of their news, past and present. It appears however, much to their dismay that the Torontonian Manager was not there. It seems that the creator of the event must say they are attending even if they are not. And so, their mission to amuse the cousin was no more. And so, they sat down as the first act was to start (there were to be three). The general tone of the evening was warm and folky. Anti-Rocks had brought sweet provisions with her in the form of chocolate covered marzipan and little mars bars. So, they ate them (with the exception of 2 mars bars).
At one point, Anti-Rocks had a damn tea moment. In fact, she had had it during the journey to the secluded music hall, but was not able to do anything about it prior to the intermission following the first act. So, after paying for the show, she made her way to the women’s outhouse. Much to her dismay it was locked. So she waited. And waited. And waited. She then caught a look of the men’s outhouse and noticed stalls (unless her eyes betrayed her) and wondered “If there are stalls in the washroom, why would the door be locked?” This slightly angered her, for she had damn tea and also wanted to get rid of her gum. She decided to explain her case to the Zoologist who accompanied her to investigate the situation. Naturally, once Anti-Rocks brought her to the scene, the door was unlocked. With glee, she sped to the door of the washroom. At that point, the Wandering Spirit inquired if there was an outhouse party. Anti-rocks tried to explain, but was generally incoherent:
“Well, I went to the outhouse and the door was locked and I didn’t understand why…”.
”Well, sometimes it appears locked, but is just slightly jammed”
”I tried really hard, and it wouldn’t open and yeah…eeee” And Anti-Rocks dashed in while the Zoologist, the Wandering Spirit and the guardians of money chuckled. Following that, Anti-Rocks made her way back to her table in time for the next act, which was the Wandering Spirit. He arrived on stage (with his other band mates) with a truly terrifying mask (like a sinister yoda with lots of gray hair and a beard). However, this was extremely amusing as the voice behind the terrifying mask was singing very sweetly – which doesn’t match very well. The crowd was greatly amused and could not contain their laughter. As such, the Wandering Spirit gave up and threw the mask off because he could not concentrate. After that song, he asked why no one was dressed up for Halloween, except for Anti-Rocks who had green hair. The crowd answered that it was yesterday. He concurred, but still believed that the spirit of Halloween should continue.
In between the 2nd and 3rd act, Anti-Rocks and the Free-Sprited Zoologist, now infused with lots of sucrose, decided to play a game known as Table Hockey with the beer coasters. They did this with much glee, spouting random phrases in Spanish (possibly inspired by their previous meal) and cheering for their goals. Sometimes the coasters flew off the table and in some occasions flew into fellow music listeners. They were generally amused though and did not protest. Anti-Rocks’ incoherency continued, as the first musician asked what we were doing, and she replied “Hockey Table!...coasters…”. It seems that he got the general idea. The final act was also nice, but generally more subdued and somewhat sleepy. The concert ended and The Free-Spirited Zoologist decided to greet a friend she randomly encountered there – a violinist who was playing that night. As Anti-Rocks and the Zoologist were incapable of consuming more sucrose infused provisions, Anti-Rocks offered a Mars bar (yes, Mars indeed made of chocolate) to her. She was quite pleased. The remaining planetary treat would go to the Wandering Spirit. So, we found him and informed him of our incoming departure. As usual, he embraced us warmly. Anti-Rocks then presented him with the candy. He thanked her, but then professed that he felt ill the night before. The Zoologist inquired as to whether it was candy related and he confirmed. As such, Anti-Rocks with the most serious face she could muster said “Well, if you don’t want it, you can always give it back” and held her right arm out. She smiled shortly after to indicate her sarcasm. The Wandering Spirit chuckled and said “No! I’ll eat it right away” and then he wished the brave travelers a safe trip home (he had gotten lost earlier that evening).
So, they set out. The Free-Spirited one had an idea – let us walk back to the transportation station known as Place St-Henri rather than take the bus! (Even though it was 11:35 pm. Naturally, they are not scared of the dark). Under normal circumstances Anti-Rocks would not have done this, but she figured “I suppose we are two. So it’s not so bad and you’re a fox and I have green hair. Clearly mutants of some sort”. She had drawn a make-shift map earlier in the evening in the event that she would have to walk. So she was confident that they’d find their way. However, it seems that the Halloween Spirits had different plans for them. They arrived at the cross section of St Remi and Notre Dame as indicated on the map. They then walked forward on Notre Dame and continued on for some time. Anti-Rocks was a little worried and thought maybe they missed the street they were supposed to turn on (Ste Marguerite). So, they reasoned that if they were indeed going in the right direction, if they continued, they would end up at the next transport station: Lionel-Groulx. So onward they went – on small side walks, under underpasses…until they found themselves on the side road of the highway 20 – there is not much there: mostly industries and barren land. They found out at that time that they had turned in the wrong direction on Notre Dame. Now, it is not unusual (rather frequent) that the Free-Spirited Zoologist loses her way. This doesn’t usually happen to Anti-Rocks though. They figured though, that they’ll find their way somehow. They continued walking leisurely while Anti-Rocks told the Zoologist about a sad film she had seen not long ago with the Cheerful Healer. In the midst of her story though, a loud noise was heard – something akin to a creature (man or beast) being slammed against a metal door. Anti-Rocks was startled and let out a little scream, while the Zoologist ran off. Anti-Rocks followed soon after attempting to catch up. They ran for about 2 minutes and determined that they had escaped peril. In the distance, they spotted a bus stop and decided to see what time it would arrive. Luckily, they only had 8 minutes to wait. The hid themselves in the bus shelter and awaited the vehicle. It arrived as predicted at 12:08 am. On board was a strange looking driver and two people – apart from that, entirely empty. Anti-Rocks determined that it must be a ghost bus. The bus arrived at Place St-Henri but did not stop. However, fear not, the travelers were not kidnapped. Instead the bus brought them to Lionel-Groulx, which proved convenient for the Free-Spirited Zoologist. Following their arrival to the transportation station, they made their way home safely and unharmed – at least for now.
On the night of Halloween, a troupe of four set out on a journey to hear magical sounds in the building known to people for its proximity to a sketchy transportation station surrounding by gravel and other such rocks. They assembled in front of the Metropolis approximately two hours before the start of the performance – they being Anti-Rocks, Paw, the Western Redhead and Steel-toed Pirate. That night Anti-Rocks had green hair and was almost unnoticed by the Steel-toed Pirate and the Western Redhead until she caught their attention by means of savage poking. Much to their delight, they entered the line with Paw and Anti-Rocks. During this time, they discussed strategies for fending off unwelcome crowd annoyances and the upcoming sushi creations two days later.
Upon entry, they raced to the front gate and assured their places from premium viewing of the musical groups that would appear in the near future on that night. While waiting they purchased various provisions in the form of water, tee-shirts and compact discs. Much to their excitement, the first group appeared – of course not in normal attire. Two were in space suits (one having two heads, which slightly unnerved Paw) and the drummer appeared as a Giraffe. It appears that the other two did not know that he would do that. So, The Land of Talk played their music for about 45 minutes and during that time a rabbit hopped on to the stage to play saxophone for one song. Not long after Land of Talk disappeared into the darkness, Broken Social Scene made their way onto the elevated platform in front of the brave troopers. Being that they were the main act, the troupe held onto the gate for dear life in case of sinister annoyances.
They arrived disguised. Of course the Bunny was there, as was a man dressed as a woman (Mrs. Brendan Canning), with her “asshole drunken husband” (Kevin Drew). In their company – a mummy, a man in a toga and various other costumes. Without delving too far into details, suffice to say the musical group played extremely well. The night was filled with magic. A particularly magical part of the performance was during the song “Ibi dreams of pavement (a better day)”. During the middle of the song (where the band typically plays and no one sings), the sinister husband addressed the crowd and asked us to scream, but for a particular reason – for ourselves:
"All right, it's therapy time everybody. This little bit we do for everybody, every human being in the house tonight. For everything you've lost, for everything you didn't get, for everything you hurt, for everyone that hurt you, everything you want to become, everything you never became, you're gonna scream. All right? You're gonna let it all out, you're gonna be as loud as you can...On the count of three, you gotta scream your guts out. You ready? Therapy. One. Two. Three. Scream. Go”
After his cue, the entire building was filled with the screams of joy and sorrow, general pure emotion of the crowd – not once, but twice. Anti-Rocks and Paw both had the same reaction: which was to bend over the rail and scream into the ground in front until they had no voice left. However, the night was not without its annoyances. The Steel-Toed pirate was generally the protector of all, but mostly the Western Redhead. At one point, there was a particularly annoying person who kept savagely kicking and bumping into the Steel-Toed pirate. As such, she did what naturally came to mind – to wrap her leg around the annoyance and pull forward so that they fell to the ground. It appears the person was incredibly confused and had no idea what had happened – much to the Pirate’s delight. On the side of Anti-Rocks and Paw, there was a strangely dressed female who also kept bumping into them, and her handbag would continuously whack the face of Paw. At one point the female asked if she could stand in between us at the gate for a while, to which Paw replied “well, I am with my comrade” and so the female went on the other side, but still dancing with the annoying handbag action. The pirate was tempted to take action, but she refrained.
The concert ended when Halloween ended, thereby ending our night of magic, happiness and wonder (it lasted about 4 hours in total, including the Land of Talk). And so, the tired troupe headed home. However, this does not end this Halloween tale. It appears that the spirit of Halloween would not leave our fearless travelers just yet.
Upon entry, they raced to the front gate and assured their places from premium viewing of the musical groups that would appear in the near future on that night. While waiting they purchased various provisions in the form of water, tee-shirts and compact discs. Much to their excitement, the first group appeared – of course not in normal attire. Two were in space suits (one having two heads, which slightly unnerved Paw) and the drummer appeared as a Giraffe. It appears that the other two did not know that he would do that. So, The Land of Talk played their music for about 45 minutes and during that time a rabbit hopped on to the stage to play saxophone for one song. Not long after Land of Talk disappeared into the darkness, Broken Social Scene made their way onto the elevated platform in front of the brave troopers. Being that they were the main act, the troupe held onto the gate for dear life in case of sinister annoyances.
They arrived disguised. Of course the Bunny was there, as was a man dressed as a woman (Mrs. Brendan Canning), with her “asshole drunken husband” (Kevin Drew). In their company – a mummy, a man in a toga and various other costumes. Without delving too far into details, suffice to say the musical group played extremely well. The night was filled with magic. A particularly magical part of the performance was during the song “Ibi dreams of pavement (a better day)”. During the middle of the song (where the band typically plays and no one sings), the sinister husband addressed the crowd and asked us to scream, but for a particular reason – for ourselves:
"All right, it's therapy time everybody. This little bit we do for everybody, every human being in the house tonight. For everything you've lost, for everything you didn't get, for everything you hurt, for everyone that hurt you, everything you want to become, everything you never became, you're gonna scream. All right? You're gonna let it all out, you're gonna be as loud as you can...On the count of three, you gotta scream your guts out. You ready? Therapy. One. Two. Three. Scream. Go”
After his cue, the entire building was filled with the screams of joy and sorrow, general pure emotion of the crowd – not once, but twice. Anti-Rocks and Paw both had the same reaction: which was to bend over the rail and scream into the ground in front until they had no voice left. However, the night was not without its annoyances. The Steel-Toed pirate was generally the protector of all, but mostly the Western Redhead. At one point, there was a particularly annoying person who kept savagely kicking and bumping into the Steel-Toed pirate. As such, she did what naturally came to mind – to wrap her leg around the annoyance and pull forward so that they fell to the ground. It appears the person was incredibly confused and had no idea what had happened – much to the Pirate’s delight. On the side of Anti-Rocks and Paw, there was a strangely dressed female who also kept bumping into them, and her handbag would continuously whack the face of Paw. At one point the female asked if she could stand in between us at the gate for a while, to which Paw replied “well, I am with my comrade” and so the female went on the other side, but still dancing with the annoying handbag action. The pirate was tempted to take action, but she refrained.
The concert ended when Halloween ended, thereby ending our night of magic, happiness and wonder (it lasted about 4 hours in total, including the Land of Talk). And so, the tired troupe headed home. However, this does not end this Halloween tale. It appears that the spirit of Halloween would not leave our fearless travelers just yet.
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