Fire On Ice

Christmas is just around the corner. 6 days from now to be exact, I hope you got all your shopping done? Well once the gifts are opened, you have had your feast and played with that new gadget or tried on that new garb why not go out Saturday night and view some fireworks. Yep you read right, fireworks.

Every December the Telus Fire on Ice fireworks display lights the sky in the Old Port. The event usually runs only in December on Saturdays but, this year they will be adding a week January 8Th 2011. So you can see the display Christmas night New Years night and if you want on the 8Th. Bring lots of coco and a few friends. Winter Fireworks displays are always fun with more than one in attendance with you and of course you'll want to stay warm hence the coco.

For more on this event and others on the quays in the Old Port you can visit Quays of The Old Port Montreal's site. Besides the fireworks there are many other activities year round to enjoy. Merry Christmas to all.

Cliff T.

Montrel To Get New Metro Cars 2014 And You Can Help With the Color Scheme

By 2014 Montreal should have in place on it's Yellow, Green Orange and Blue lines new rolling stock. The cars are being built and will begin to roll out in the next few years and be completely in place by 2014.

The STM is involving the public by launching a page where people can vote on 1 of 3 color designs that have been selected for the new cars. This is all part of a plan to increase ridership and this includes the new cars plus more buses and better service. Also in the mix extensions on the Blue, Green and Yellow lines.

There are also plans to put new shelters for people to wait for buses in. In short a revamp and renewal of the system to increase traffic and of course reduce the carbon footprint we as Quebeckers create.

For general info about the STM including routes and bus/metro schedules visit STM.info

C. T.

TSA Pat Down Request, John Tyner Response, Don't Touch My Junk

With the utterance of the phrase If you touch my junk I'll have you arrested. John Tyner of Oceanside CA may have lit a fuse to a very large powder keg. The statement and video that contains it have gone viral. The battle lines have been clearly marked and at this point no one is backing away from the positions they hold, the TSA on one side defending the very intrusive pat downs and the passengers fed up with the security checks they have to deal with when they fly.

Mr. Tyner recorded the incident on his phone camera and also blogged about it on his blog johnnyedge.blogspot.com.

C. T.

Codeblog Tales Of A Nurse

My niece Miranda is a nurse, actually a very specialized nurse. I must admit I really do not know what her specialty is but, from what I know she is very good at it. I thought it might be fun to see if there are blogs about nursing written from the point of view of the nurse. It was not hard to find one. Codeblog is a blog that fits that bill quite nicely. The stories are from nursing professionals patients and other persons who have contact with people in the various health care facilities ranging from the hospital to the local clinic.

One story that caught my attention was the one where a patient had a crushing chest pain. In the end they found a dead cat under the patient. Yes I said a dead cat and it is apparently a true story. Having worked as a security guard for two years at a hospital I can attest to some weird things so it is no surprise to me in the least that this was true, strange but, true. Another was one that got a nurse fired, for making a quip to a cop that pulled them over for speeding. She said she hoped he would never end up as her patient, not a good idea.

Nursing is a challenge at times. That said there are some pretty funny and odd things that happen during the shift especially a night shift. This blog gives the reader an insight into a world that is serious, challenging, sometimes funny and odd. Gina the author of the blog has put together an interesting collection of stories from the medical world from a nursing perspective that I think you'll find educational as well as entertaining.

If you know of a blog that is noteworthy submit it to me at cjames5a@gmail.com.

C. T.

Nice Tie

I work in an environment where casual dress is required Monday to Friday but, ties are not required while on the job. That said in the past I have had to wear ties while on the job and at one time had a bit of a collection, actually I still do but, they are packed in a box back in Edmonton. I guess that means I will have to get new ones if I ever end up needing to wear a tie.

I like ties for the most part as they can put the finishing touch to a suit or even in a casual situation they can accent the look one wants to have while in the presence of others. There are others though who really go all out with their ties and I found a store online with a blog that has some very interesting ties for those who really are into ties. The blog is called Nice Tie Store About Ties.

The blog is hosted by Nice Tie Store and it has all kinds of articles about ties. I found some interesting ties including Star Wars themed ties, Marvin the Martian and the Beatles.

The blog is authored by Jeffery Hunter, he has been in the tie business since 1995 and has a companion site nicetiestore.com which is a great place to find and buy some really cool ties and did I mention the blog also includes articles about ties? Ya I think I did. Anyway it is the kind of blog that is meant to be serious and fun at the same time and is a great place to find interesting novelty ties along with specialty ties as well. Examples like those related to the armed forces, sports related and yes National Geographic ties can be found on nicetiestore.com as well as on the blog itself. Hop on over give it a read and let Jeff know what you think of the blog and his other site. It's a fun place for the serious tie guy.

Cliff T.

Need A Theatre Fix? Check Out Infintheatre

I must admit I have never taken in a play, never have I even entered a theatre but there is still hope for me yet. I know that many people come to Montreal for the nightlife but, it should be noted that the city does have a strong arts community including theatre. One such theatre is called Infinitheatre.

Since 1988 this theatre has been doing productions mostly in English but, they have also expanded to include French and other languages as well. They're site features upcoming productions a link to a blog and they're magazine L'IT.

As always I post a link to the site and for Infinitheatre it is infinitheatre.com.

C. T.

Montreal Job & Training Fair

Jobs in Montreal? Of course, there are many that need to be filled in the city. Not only is there a real need to fill positions in many companies in Montreal there is also a need to develop new talent to replace those set to leave the workforce in the areas of health, government, policing and fire prevention amongst others. To fill them many companies are turning to one of the largest job fairs in the province of Quebec.

The Montreal Job and Training Fair is set to begin it's run on the 6th and 7th of October at the Palais des congrès de Montréal. The event is the 35th edition of the fair. Prior to this a new edition will take place in Laval on the 1st and 2nd.

There will be over 600 HR reps from various companies looking to meet with prospective hires during the event. Admission is free and access by public transit to the sites is available. So if you plan to be in Montreal and are looking for work, or you live here in the city and need a job circle the dates Oct 6 & 7. Good luck!

Cliff T.

S. C. R. A. P.

The above title is the acronym for Scraps Creatively Reused and Recycled Art Projects. The blog features articles about the use of old items for a new purpose. There are some very creative uses for different things listed on the blog.

Some examples are. Using a tuna can to make a ladybug decoration, old container lids reused as coasters, a wine cork tray made of wine corks and button Christmas cards. There are also links to books on recycling projects.

The author, Kristina has built a nice little following of a dozen + 1 and seems to have opted to keep the blog simple and straight forward. There are pictures of the projects discussed in each article and it appears that they, the projects, are intended to be simple easy to build fun for the family activities. This blog is a great way to teach children the value of recycling and the simplicity of it. The blog also teaches that the task of recycling can be fun as well.

C. T.

The DIY Blog

In recent years DIY (Do It Yourself) projects have become very popular. People have come up with some very interesting projects and have even gone so far as to modify products that do one thing so they can do another. DIY has become so big that there is even a TV network dedicated to the concept. On the net there lots of sites that focus on DIY projects, one I came across is simply titled DIY Blog.

The blog is a resource site that has links to other sites or more accurately articles that feature projects for those who like to dive in and do it themselves. The project that caught my eye on the blog is the iPhone inspired kitchen computer.

I found it easy to navigate the blog and also like the simplicity of it. It was nice to come across an easy to use clean looking simple blog. Yes simple is good. Check them out at http://www.diyblog.net.

C. T.

La Patente

One can find just about anything in Montreal, have I said that before? Oh Ok, well it is true you can find some pretty interesting things to do and places to visit and also for the locals there are all kinds of shops to serve any need you may have. Including of all things the repair of old phones.

La Patente is located at 510 Rachel near St. Denis. Besides the old telephones they also have the ability to fix old clocks toys and old film gear. They also have a modest collection of the above mentioned for sale.

Since I have not heard of this place before I suggest contacting them by phone or email to find out more regarding the services they provide. You will also want to get good directions to the location as they appear not to have a storefront that is visible on the street.

Still this is one of those places that makes a city like Montreal unique, that fact that it is tucked in some nook lends a certain mystery and adventure for one who may be interested in what the company does. And, who knows you may find some pretty cool things to take back home and brag to friends about. You'll be able to say I found it in Montreal. Even for locals this could also be a bragging rite.

If you have a cool place, or thing that you found in Montreal or a blog that you think is worth mentioning here. Let me know by sending a message to cjames5a@gmail.com. Thanks for reading.

Cliff T.

Le Living Room

Montreal has always had a reputation for fine dining. Food is king here in the city along with the club scene. Along with that scene and food is of course events. Banquet halls dot the city and one that stuck out in my mind is Le Living Room Situated in Mount Royal.

Touted as a private club with in house chefs this banquet centre can meet the needs of those hosting events ranging from weddings to corporate functions. What I liked about this site was it's simple hi we are here take a look at what we can do attitude. No flash no glitz no fancy graphics gives the impression that this group likes to keep it simple and professional. This does not mean they do not handle big complex banquets but, it does show that they are interested in keeping the overload of information to a minimum, at least that is the impression I get.

8000 square feet of space that can be transformed to suit the needs of a small or large group are available for whatever event one has a desire to host. Le Living Room is located on Paré near the old Blue Bonnets/Hippodrome Montreal. The Jean Talon West 92 bus route goes to this location but, I suggest you drive to the location. Or, better yet contact them by phone or email for a consultation.

Cliff T.

Toilet Sgins

Have you heard the expression maybe you need a hobby? This guy took that to heart and found one. Collecting pictures of toilet signs. The blog has over 300 pictures of signs from various types of locations including restaurants and airports. The idea is to showcase toilet signs as art. Hey that is what is posted on the blog no foolin.

The blog shows the last entry as August 24, 2009. If you want to look or contribute to the blog you can do so by sending a note to toiletsigns@gmail.com. I do have to say that some of the signs are very cool. It really is interesting to see some of the creative artwork that has gone into these signs. What is really interesting is the international scope of the works displayed on the blog. Many are from South America but, I did see some from the U.S. and Israel as I did a quick look around the blog.. The blog is called Toilet Signs and it's at http://toiletsigns.blogspot.com.

C. T.

Miss Richfield 1981

Miss Richfield 1981 garners lots of attention whatever she does and wherever she does it. I first learned of her as I watched an episode of Cake Boss. In the episode that featured her Miss Richfield wanted go beyond the norm of having a cake made for her. She wanted to "pop" out of it. I have to admit this was one of the funniest episodes of Cake Boss I had seen. I hope to get an interview with Miss Richfield for Candid Conversations. But, in the meantime I give you her site/blog. I think you'll find it "interesting."

And for those who can not figure it out. Miss Richfield is a drag queen. Just thought I would warn you before you click on over.

C. T.

Montreal + Food = Yum At Homemade Kosher Bakery

Montreal has a reputation for good food. The restaurants and bakeries in many cases are considered to be world class. And, I have to say I agree. Having lived in 3 provinces, including Quebec I have found that here in Montreal there is great pride in cooking and baking good food. Not that the other cities I have visited show any less passion, I have dined well in Toronto and Edmonton. But, Montreal seems to have it's own uniqueness when it comes to food.

We may not have Buddy Valastro, the Cake Boss here but, we do have Homemade Kosher Bakery. Nestled in Villeray this bakery has been serving clients for 30 years in the Kosher tradition. And from what I can see they make some very delicious foods. They also cater and they do more than cakes. But, do not take my word for it you've got to see the site and if you are in Montreal you should consider dropping in and trying the treats, breads muffins and other foods they cook up.

Homemade Kosher Bakery

6915 Querbes Montreal, Quebec
H3N 2B3

Phone Number: ( 514) 270-5567
Fax Number: ( 514) 270-5041
Toll Free: 1-800-268-5567

Email contact@homemadekosher.ca

Cliff T.

The McCord Museum of Canadian History

Montreal like most major cities has museums. And, not only does Montreal have museums it also has a day dedicated to museums. 34 Museums take part in the annual event and another 8 are joining in this year to bring the total to 42. One of the museums that participates in the event is the McCord Museum of Canadian History. The museum is located in the downtown core and is very easy to get to by bus and metro. The admission fees are quite reasonable.

• Adults: $13
• Seniors (65 and over): $10*
• Students (full-time): $7*
• Children 6 to 12 years: $5
• Children 5 and under: free
• Families**: $26
• Friends of the Museum: free

What grabbed my attention was the exhibition Being Irish O'Quebec. The exhibit features story stations, biography booths and illustrates how the Irish have impacted Quebec on many levels from the very beginning to today.

As I mentioned at the beginning of this article the city of Montreal has a Museums Day every year, the 24th annual is scheduled for Sunday May 30th. Dream Weavers - Costumes by Cirque du Soleil will be open to the public during Museums day at the McCord. A definite must see if you are a fan of the circus.

C. T.

2nd Ave Sagas A First Rate Transit Blog

There are lots of people who are into trains. In fact the world of transit in general brings together many people who are fascinated with the inner workings of various systems around the world. Although I am not as deeply involved in the hobby I have had and still do have an interest in trains in particular subways. I am more or less fascinated by the daily workings of systems as opposed to the technical side of things. If I ever win the million I would love to tour some of the more famous systems of the world. However for now I just read about them on the net. One system of note is New York's. It's vast and running it is a challenge at the best of times. There is always something happening in and around the system that gets people talking and bloggers blogging.

One blog on the net is 2nd Ave Sagas, written by Benjamin Kabak. The blog is a mix of technical, historical and operational details on the New York system. Some of the recent articles include transit plans for 15 Penn Plaza, new G Train service and an article on a tunnel boring machine. Fear not bus riders, surface transit is covered on this blog so in effect this is more than just a subway blog, it's really a full bodied transit blog. Oh yes the politics of transit is also covered on this blog. This is a well established blog it goes back to Nov 06 and it is updated quite frequently from what I can see. It is very obvious that Mr. Kabak takes great care in developing his blog.

I liked this blog and I think you will as well. I may even become a follower of it that is how good it really is. Got a blog or are you in Montreal and want to promote your blog fave restaurant or other Montreal item or do you know of a blog that just plain rocks. Let me know, you can send your submissions to cjames5a@gmail.com and I will gladly read through them and post those gems you send.

C. T.

Tune Up Your Bass And Release Your Music

Ever dream of being a rock star? Of course you have, I know I did, heck still do at 47. But, alas I am not going to be a rock star but, maybe a blog star. Anyway for those pressing on with the dream of being a rock star there are lots of things to do and lots of ways to do them. Many artists want to retain control of the content, rights and profits that come with the successful launch of their music. Getting there is the challenge. One company is striving to help musicians create music their way while still providing the traditional services of a record label. One such tool they are using is blogging.

Release Your Music is a blog that gives it's readers insights into the creative processes related to music production and distribution. The company to which this blog is attached to is located in Fullerton CA near Anaheim. Besides the blog there are connections to Facebook and Twitter as well as Myspace. The company, Artisans Label also has a web presence. Very well done sites but, the blog does need new content. The last known entry is in August of 09. All the other links mentioned can be found on the blog.

This is a good resource for those interested in music production and distribution. The blog has a gritty get down and dirty feel to it, the colors of Grey and Red and the edgy graphic give the impression of rough and tumble get down to it attitude. Yet looking at the company's sites you can and will see not only this edge but, a professional style as well. In short a no nonsense we mean business type of company, with the attitude that they want to help clients succeed through knowledge and hard work are the messages conveyed on the blog and websites.

Speaking of conveying a message if you are a blogger and want to have your work mentioned here on Mixed Nuts drop an email to me at cjames5a@gmail.com. All I need, obviously, is the link and what your blog is about and from there I will take it. And, come back often the blog is only going to grow bigger and better as we feature blogs and links to places events and people in Montreal.

C. T.

The Montreal File-Churches

Montreal is renowned for it's architecture and there is no better place to examine the city's style than via it's churches. Montreal has about 300 churches the most notable ones are listed on Montreal.com. These buildings are incredible in size and and beautiful inside. It can be said that they are more than just places of worship, they are indeed works of art. If you think the pictures of them are amazing you will be, I believe, totally left speechless and awe struck and I mean this in the sincerest sense. These buildings are beautiful inside and outside and the best way to enjoy them is to visit them.

The ones mentioned on Montreal.com are in the downtown core easy to get to on the Metro. Montreal.com also has posted on the page links to the official websites of the churches they wrote about. Of interesting note is the fact that while Quebec boasts that it is a secular society most of it's citizens will tell you that they subscribe to a faith of some sort. Generally in Quebec the main religion is Roman Catholic.

If you have a blog or are in Montreal and want to have something posted to this site please send your request to cjames5a@gmail.com and I will be happy to visit the site or blog and post information here on Mixed Nuts.

C.. T.

Midnight Poutine

My pal Jayme had suggested that I write a blog about Montreal and it's interesting places and characteristics. Well when I looked up blogs on Montreal I found quite a few of them including this one, Midnight Poutine.

It is a blog with 18 contributors working on it covering the Montreal scene Food, Film and Arts are among the topics explored on the site. I looked at a couple of postings to see how well the blog is kept up to date and was pleased to see that it is current. The most recent post I found while putting this post up was about Earth Hour, March 27 2010.

What is really interesting here is the fact that this blog is part of a network of blogs on the Freshdaily network. They also have blogs in Toronto and Vancouver, the main site is still under construction. This is one blog I think I will bookmark myself as a link to things Montreal and also to other cities as well.

If you have a favorite blog you want me to write about send the link to me at cjames5a@gmail.com.

C. T.

Link to: Midnight Poutine

A New Beginning For An Old Blog

Mixed nuts is changing. As you will see most of the posts have been deleted and only those references to blogs are left. Which is where we will begin. Mixed Nuts will now be a blog about blogs and there is also going to be a sub category about Montreal as I experience living in the city.

The first entry of the new site should be up soon.

C. T.

Not Crunch Enough.....

Well some things have to come to an end. Mixed Nuts is one of them. The blog has not really done so well getting a mere 65 hits since it's creation. So it will be taken down shortly. That will leave 3 blogs. Four Eyes One Internet, Candid Conversations and VA2UTC. These 3 blogs will be maintained as there is clear growth in visits while this blog has had none. The types of things seen on thsi blog will be reported on Four Eyes and if I can I will try to get the person in the story to speak with me on Candid Conversations.

The blog should be offline in about a week or so.

Thanks

C. T.