The Griper

2011-11-02T16:51:00.001-04:00

Mayor Rob Ford, according to US political commentator Keith Olbermann is “the worst person in the world.” Worst person in the world? According to Olbermann, no one is worse than Rob Ford, not one person in the US or even the world is worse than the Mayor that could, Rob Ford. I am by no means a fan of Rob Ford or his brother Doug, however, there are many worse people in the world than him. One not so nice person was just killed by rebels recently that comes to mind, but that’s another article.

Olbermann is referring to the Mayor’s reaction to a “Comedy Show” ambushing him in the driveway of his home for a segment of their show. The reaction to this intrusion is what Olbermann is referring too. The Mayor called 911 and apparently went into a curse word filled rant on the poor woman who just so happened to answer the call. The Mayor apparently and admittedly used the F-Word several times during his “several” calls to 911 and allegedly also called the woman a Bitch. This however is being contested by the Mayor. He admits to using the F-word but denies ever calling the woman or using the word, Bitch. Interestingly though, all 911 calls are recorded. It would be very easy for the Mayor to clear this matter up by releasing the tapes. The question is why won’t he? One reason is because this Mayor does whatever he wants and could care less what others say. On a side not, how did he ever get elected in the first place - I digress. The Police Chief could also mandate the release of the tapes but he has said no and decreed the case closed. I wonder who appoints the Police Chief? Mayor Ford couldn’t take a little joke from a comedy show, one can only imagine what would happen if 60 Minutes showed up at his door. A question to all Torontonians, how’s Mel Lastman lookin just about now?

2011-06-20T14:50:00.000-04:00

Anyone who has enjoyed the music of the Beach Boys and Brian Wilson’s solo endeavors know his genius, that is a given. The music filled with incredible harmony and a feeling of fun mixed with some sadness is a testament to the brilliance of Brian Wilson. What also strikes as true genius was the experience on June 18th at Massey Hall in Toronto. Those of us who had the opportunity to enjoy the 42 song concert which included the sing-a-long to “Row, row, row your boat”, were able to experience another form of Musical genius, that incredible ability to put together a team which enables you to shine. The Band that Brian Wilson had around him not only are incredible musicians able to play any instrument which happened to be in front of them, but were also selected for their angelic voices which they all possess. The Band members not only helped create the sound that at most times equaled the recordings, they were there to lovingly take care of the man himself. Vocally, they were able to cover for Brian when needed but also able to allow Brian to shine when able.

Yes, Brian Wilson at times looked robotic behind his Keyboard and Teleprompter, but who cares? As said, anyone who knows Brian Wilson’s history knows that his mere presence surrounded by his incredible band was only witnessed because of the man himself and his desire to perform. For that Brian, we all in attendance say thanks, it was a great night and we all hope you had a good time too.

2011-05-24T09:13:00.002-04:00

Join the wave on Twitter - Follow The Griper - @TheGriper - The Voice of the People

2011-05-03T10:14:00.000-04:00

The Canadian Federal election was held and Stephen Harper’s Conservative Party won a Majority Government. A Majority - Are you kidding me??!! Now that it is spring and we have entered Golf season, perhaps a Mulligan is in order. Let’s have a do’ over , everyone go back to the polling station and let’s try this again.

2011-03-21T14:13:00.001-04:00

Toronto Comic Con was certainly an event in Toronto, not the Big Bang perhaps, but an event just the same. You had the usual fans dressed up in their costumes, interesting displays including the copy of Marty and The Doc's ride from Back To The Future, but if you were not a Comic book fan, the event lacked some pizzazz. Only attending Sunday and not for the entire 3 days prohibits my commenting on the event as a whole other than to say I thought it would be a little more Grand. I am sure Friday and Saturday had more glitz for those who did attend. The array of artists displaying their work was quite impressive, the talent on hand for conversation on Sunday lacked the Billy D "star" power but if you were a Star Wars fan, you left the event quite happy. Other notables such as Scott Thomson and Dustin Diamond made a few heads turn but I am not convinced they were as happy to be there as the ones who's heads turned. All in all the promoters I am sure are happy and they should be, the organizers and volunteers on hand were helpful, courteous and answered everyone's questions. Hopefully next time however, they will do a little more digging and realize there are some iconic Voice Actors in Toronto who would have enhanced the event had they been there. The Voices of Spiderman, Hermey, Hulk, Thor, Dorothy, Smurf, etc. were just blocks and a phone call away.

2011-03-17T15:43:00.002-04:00

Hypocrisy of the Biz
Of course Charlie Sheen is acting irrational, of course he is playing the game. Now that has been said, come-on, its hilarious! What has been going on in the media is typical hypocrisy. The pun dints who praised his talents, envied his position are now as usual, acting as experts in Psychology and diagnosing his condition. Charlie Sheen is acting no differently now than he did in his past. Does no one remember Ms Madam Heidi? What has changed in Charlie today other than he crossed the line. The line being, he spoke ill of his Boss. Two And A Half Men is (was) a G-Rated version of Charlie Sheen's life from the get go. His personal antics had no effect prior to his public anti Boss meltdown. He could get busted, threaten his wife, dust up a Hotel, but as long as the show was making money they seemed to love the attention it brought. Now however, it all has changed. Hollywood Exec's have been playing this game for years and years. John Belushi, for example, just had to ask for money and the Studio would send the briefcase fully knowing what was being bought. His death was the only reason the deliveries stopped. the list of more examples is too long to even bother mentioning.

Charlie Sheen has made himself and CBS millions and millions of dollars and when the dust settles, chances are Charlie Harper will rise again. One only has to recall a scene from the program where Allan asks Charlie for money while Charlie is lying in bed with one of his random women to know this is all hypocrisy. Charlie's response to Allan was that he had no money, once Allan left, the woman asks, "you have no money" to which Charlie responds, "I always have Hooker Cash".

Stay tuned....

2011-01-26T09:09:00.000-05:00

The Toronto Maple Left's

What is wrong with the Toronto Maple Leafs? One doesn't have enough time or article space to fully explain it all, however, one could simply say the Leafs main problems stem from continuously going left.

The ability to score has LEFT
Players with true desire have LEFT
True grit has LEFT
Driving to the net has LEFT
Sacrificing the body has LEFT
Skill that some players have had has LEFT
Hitting the net has LEFT
Finding players who are open has LEFT
Scoring goals has LEFT
Taking pride in wearing the jersey has LEFT
Having a hockey heart has LEFT
As a fan, thinking they will win the game has LEFT
The chance to make the playoffs has LEFT
Maybe the only chance is if the fat cats in the seats will LEAVE

Who knows what the answers truly are. One thing is true, until they acquire a player or two who are really skilled combined with actual heart, nothing will ever change. Perhaps Gilmore, Roberts or maybe Sittler could lace them up for us once again. Even at their age they would give us something more entertaining to not only watch but perhaps put some heart back into this once prideful but now quite embarrassing franchise.

2011-01-11T09:44:00.000-05:00

Well, it didn't take Jolly ole Mayor Ford to put it to the people. Even before all the holiday bills arrived, he's sticking it to the actual people who put him in the Big chair by announcing a possible (sure - possible) 10 cent rate increase for the TTC. Yes, he eliminated the $60 tax for licence's but wouldn't you know it, he's attempting to recoup some of it immediately by increasing the fare for those (in most cases) who don't own cars and were not affected by the $60 in the first place - Thanks Rob!
Tell us Rob, how many times did you read that speech in front of your Media consultant guru's before you spoke the words to us yesterday? if I were you, I'd fire them. Just because you say the words slowly does not mean we will feel your pain. "I did not want to agree with this - I am not happy." Well Mayor, DON"T do it. We the people have had to pay more money for a terrible service for far too long. Fix the TTC, get rid of the redundancies, wake-up the sleeping attendants, watch and make sure people actually pay and then maybe we will accept and increase for a service which works. I am sorry Mr. Mayor, just because you want to "burn" 150+ million for your subways, does not mean we should have to pay for your so-called vision.

A month into your term and visions of a new Mayor are dancing in our heads.

2010-12-08T13:41:00.001-05:00

How interesting is it that the Twits on Twitter are back. The fabulous Celebrities vowed to stay off all social media until $1,000,000.00 was raised to fight AIDS. What they didn’t count on however, was that raising the money in a short period of time would not occur as they had thought. As usual these Celebs feel that all they have to do is say "jump" and their minions would simply say, "how high". I guess this time, they were wrong. These celebs didn’t realize that the ones they are asking to donate are having a hard enough time keeping food on their own tables let alone a roof over their heads. Donating to keep these rich fabulous ones happy just isn’t in the cards this time. The real issue here is not raising money for AIDS, it is the usual, self-serving Celebs trying to show the world how important they are. Obviously this time, it did not work. So, what happened, a rich person decided to donate aprox. $400,000.00 to enable the $1,000,000.00 needed to bring back the Celebs to our social media world. All is good in the world now – right? What is absolutely disgusting however, the true reason why they are back is not because they so desperately wanted to raise the money. These Celebs who participated could have easily reached into their own pockets for spare change and raised the amount needed. No, they were loosing too much money themselves by not being on the social media outlets. You see most of these people get paid to spew their wisdom. Some of these same Celebs who were holding their followers ransom get paid, in some cases $10,000.00 per Tweet – PER TWEET!. The truth is, because it was taking much longer than expected to raise the money, they were now loosing way too much themselves and felt, enough was enough. All it would have taken for the $1,000,000.00 to be raised was 10 Celebs writing 10 tweets each and donating their tweet money. Did they – I think not, they prefer us to give money we don’t have rather than they donate monies given to them to say they like a skin care product or some other useless item. Thanks Celebs, nice to know that being a TWIT on Twitter means more to you than not only the worshippers you have, but the charity you covet with such heartfelt cries.

2010-11-09T09:13:00.001-05:00

There is never a shortage of useless information out there to keep you amused. The unfortunate part however, is we are supposed to take this insanity seriously and give these really stupid, egotistical maroons respect for their outpouring of, well, I don't know what. Kanya West with his racist rant on the former President when he himself is filled with reverse racism. Mel Gibson preaching God while cheating and allegedly hitting on a woman. Heidi Montag wanting the world to love her and take her seriously while spending a ton of money trying to create the "living" Barbie" whore. Now we have Lindsay Lohan the train-wreck spending time in rehab although jail should have been her home, feeling the love and joy of self awareness. Now she wants to spread her joy and wisdom by opening a rehab facility of her own. How are we informed of this, her mother, the poster girl for terrible mothers announces this while being interviewed on Television. Why? Who knows, probably because she needed a facial and haircut and knew it would be given to her prior to her appearance. The best news however, is Kim Kardashian launching her own credit card to help young people learn how to spend money properly. Kim Kardashian - spend wisely? Kim Kardashian should be a spokesperson for how to make money by being an absolute nobody, not teaching the young to spend properly. What would she possibly no about this issue? She is handed anything she wants simply by being able to stand upright. that's more than one can say about Paris Hilton, she came to fame by allowing the world to see her talents while laying down. Hmm, perhaps Paris should be a spokesperson for Sealy.

2010-10-19T10:08:00.000-04:00

Having a Canadian Walk of Fame is a wonderful thing, however, is it not time to honour those who actually disserve the recognition? I am not saying all who have been inducted do not disserve the honour, I am saying there are definitely some, who do not. When will the Walk of Fame committee start acknowledging Canadians whose body of work make them disserving of being honoured? Is the purpose to create ratings for a Television show and buzz for a Red-Carpet event or honouring Canadians for their contribution to their craft? Lets take, for sake of argument, this years inductee's, Farley Mowat, David Clayton-Thomas and Doug Henning. These three, yes, they are disserving of a Star. Their contributions to their craft are undeniable not only in Canada but throughout the world. Are Sarah Polley, Eric McCormack, Nelly Furtado and Clara Hughes worthy of a Star on Canada's Walk of Fame? I think not......yet. One could argue Sarah Polley is worthy of this honour, she has been a wonderful actor and director for many years, but to recognize her with a Star now, I do not believe so. This honour should be for a body of work, she is too young for this honour, she has years left to produce works that will make us all and herself proud. Eric McCormack is no way near worthy of this honour. Sure, many loved his character in Will and Grace, an American TV show that was on the air for several years with much success. Isn't this honour for a body of work throughout a career? With no disrespect, what else has he done to warrant a Star? Nelly Furtado is a successful singer, sold several million albums, where is the body of work throughout a career that warrants her Star? She is too young like Ms Polley to justify this honour. Clara Hughes one can argue is disserving. I will not criticize this choice for the simple reason she achieved greatness in her field and she now is retired. Her body of work speaks for in itself and for that I will not criticize.

Although there are many who have already been recognized that I believe are not worthy, there are many more who have been, to this point, left out. When will the WoF committee start honouring those who helped build the Canadian Entertainment Industry who are either not with us anymore or whose careers are no longer prospering? Billie Mae Richards the beloved voice of Rudolph The Rednosed Reindeer, the most successful Christmas program in the history of television was acknowledged throughout the world after her recent passing, yet, she has no "Star" despite her long and successful career. Paul Soles, the voice of Hermey in Rudolph as well as that of Spiderman and many other characters in cartoons that are still loved today not to mention his contribution to "Take 30" and other programs coupled with his numerous roles in Movies and Theatre, is not recognized. Bernard Cowan, the voice of thousands of commercials, television programs, producer/director of hundreds of cartoons, founding member of ACTRA etc. is not recognized. Although the "powers that be" say they will start honouring those pioneers, my question is, when? Recognizing the current so called "stars" is fine, however, it is time the builders of the Industry had their due. The Walk of Fame is not and should not be about ratings for a TV show and a Red-Carpet gathering alone, it should be about all who have contributed to the greatness of our Country. Even the Hockey Hall of Fame has a "Builders" category, it's time the Walk of Fame had one as well. Just because they are elderly or no longer with us, is no reason for them not to have the honour of being walked upon on King street.

2010-09-30T09:44:00.001-04:00

It is quite concerning to read the report which contains various names of Celebrities which have permits to carry hand guns. Concerning in the fact that their identity has been revealed. With this information, the "bad guys" can now plan better and be more equipped to deal with the celebs. The savvy ones will research through the public record what type of defence the celeb has and make sure they come stronger, for example: Celebrity - 9mm, Bad Guy - Magnum. There is also the concern with their identity revealed, they with be taunted in public perhaps by a intoxicated individual and an unfortunate mistake with happen in the "drawing" of their weapon. With some wannabe Celebrities and established ones only interested in publicity, one can only imagine how many of the "Spencer Pratt, Heidi Montag, Paris, Lohan or Snookie's of the world will not only obtain a permit for the use of carrying a firearm but have their publicists release that information to anyone who will print it to up their cache. All in all it's a bad situation which is another example of how totally screwed up our society is in regard to celebrity.

Marc Anthony was one of the names mentioned and this I found quite surprising. Surprised in the fact I was under the impression he was already sufficiently protected. Doesn't he already carry a large Sword?

2010-09-16T12:24:00.001-04:00

Anyone who had taught in the Private College system upon reading that Premier McGuinty is considering and looking into the possibility of cellphones being allowed and used in the classroom would be left, in a word, laughing. Although the policy as it stands now is students must power off and store their cellphones or face possible discipline, Premier McGuinty said "it's something that we should be looking at in our schools." Any parent who pays for their child's cellphone Bill can readily see that a good percentage of that use is attributed to the day time and therefore the "policy" that does exist, is not enforced. Allowing cellphones to be used in the classroom is only going to create a huge problem. How are teachers supposed to monitor what is actually going on? He or she will be spending more time walking around the classroom checking rather than teaching. It's hard enough monitoring Laptop users without the added burden of checking if a student is Texting or on Facebook, Twitter, MSN, or perhaps sending questions to other students and awaiting answers via BBM. The Premier feels cellphones could be used for Internet research, notes, etc. What ever happened to Textbooks, handouts or perhaps actual writing hand written notes from listening and paying attention to what a Teachers is actualy saying? Here's a question, what about those students who do not have a cellphone or even a Smartphone? What about those who do, but don't have an unlimited or Data Plan at all? Is the government going to provide every school in the Province with WiFi or better still distribute Smartphones to every student at the beginning of every school year and pay for their use, repair and replacement? This suggestion of allowing Cellphones into the classroom is ridiculous. Money could and should be spent elsewhere in areas of benefit providing students with courses and supplies in Music, Art or re-opening Pools to name just a few. The Students of today aren't even being supplied essentials like Paper and Pens but the Premier is considering allowing Cellphones. I can see it now, step right up students, pick up your new Blackberry or would you rather have an IPhone or.........Come on people, lets be real here

2010-09-12T16:27:00.002-04:00

You may not recognize the name however, you know the voice, Billie Mae Richards passed away recently. Billie Mae's voice can be heard in your head by the simple mention of one name - Rudolph. Billie Mae was the voice of the beloved character Rudolph from the classic Rudolph the Rednose Reindeer cartoon. She also was the voice of numerous beloved characters from many many cartoon programs including, King Kong, Willie McBean, Spiderman and Care Bears to name just a few. But it was the male Rudolph with the female voice of Billie Mae Richards which will always be remembered. The voice greats that have passed away now include Billie Mae Richards, but for their fans, friends and most importantly, family, they will continue to be heard forever.

2010-09-07T09:56:00.001-04:00

www.examiner.com - Toronto City Buzz

Lotteries are a huge source of income, but where are the millions if not billions of dollars going and into who's pocket? It would be quite interesting to be informed of the exact totals. Think of all the lotteries that are available, the daily, weekly games that can be played. The amounts must be incredible. Why then do the citizens have to deal with, increases in transportation, congested roads, decaying buildings, homeless wondering the streets or huge wait times in hospitals. Government is always saying, there is no money. Really? If lotteries are such a huge source of funds, why can't they create source specific lottery opportunities. Create a lottery game which all the funds minus "costs" got to that specific need. Illness specific, roads specific, etc. Considering this being the first day of school, what about education? Walk through a random selection of Secondary Collegiate's in this city and you will realize how useful this suggestion would be. Everyone likes the atmosphere of an established environment however, it becomes quite a concern when you realize these building are in such disarray. Who doesn't enjoy walking through the halls of their former school, remembering what went on in those halls and classrooms. What's disturbing however, is seeing the dent you put into that locker 30 years ago, still there, the broken walls, faded chalk boards, cracked ceilings and boarded up rooms. Don't you think an Education lottery game would generate more than enough money to not only pay to fix these problems but also pay for Teachers, school supplies, equipment, special needs, sports, music, art, pools and repair? It seems quite logical but yet there is never a suggestion to do so. With all this money going into the Governments pocket, why don't "we the people" benefit form any of it in a manner in which we feel we are doing so, HST anyone?. We are always told there isn't enough, although millions if not billions are readily available for those in need in other countries the second an unfortunate disaster trikes. It is time the lottery corporation thought outside the box, or at least increase the odds of actually winning so we can perhaps in our own little way, do the job for them.

2010-09-01T13:21:00.001-04:00

Who can believe summer is just about over and school is about to begin yet again. It doesn't matter how many years removed you are, the beginning of school feels like the beginning of the year itself. September -September really should be the calendar year. Anyone over 40 would remember the first day of school being filled with the usual anxiety and the day you received your school supplies. The Teacher would hand out your textbooks, pencils, erasers, paper, and the workbooks. The bin would be filled with pencil crayons, extra pencils and various odds and ends. Well, time has certainly changed hasn't it? In this new world, the first day of High School may start on the same day as in the past however, you won't be allowed to attend until you pay baby!! That's right, you are not entitled to receive your schedule or agenda until you fork over the coin. In some areas, it is $70.00. This will give you your agenda, schedule and yearbook. Without this fee, or ransom, you are out of luck. Must not forget the extensive school supplies as well. Not just random items you feel will suffice. No, 1", 2", 3" binders, pens, pencils(mechanical of course), calculator (can you believe how expensive they are?), paper, workbooks, markers, protractors, locks, locker shelves(really?) and anything else that will make your loving child happy. In some cases this could total $150.00 - $300.00+. Did I forget the new wardrobe, knapsack and cell phone case? You also have to take into consideration sports. In our day you could just play. Now you pay to play. Football and Rugby as an example, $100.00 for the privilege plus appropriate cleats. As parents we have another duty as well. Spending 30 minutes signing papers that will exonerate the School from any liability known to man-kind. Unfortunately it does not stop there. Now we get into the "please give us money" routine. Donate please to this, to that, for this, for that. You see the school board really can not supply anything anymore, and that's a shame. At least we can take comfort in knowing the Teachers Pension Fund is doing well and we can happily enjoy the triumphs of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Toronto Raptors and TFC. Happy school year everyone, the first bell is at 8:45am.

2010-09-01T13:20:00.001-04:00

Show Biz or Maroons R-US

Interesting how during one weekend, all in showbiz is revealed, the good and the bad. Enjoyed a Band with an excellent guitarist in Jarett Zaidlin in a lousy venue one night. Watched an actually good and funny Emmy Awards last night and read all about the ridiculousness of the biz in between. This ridiculousness is what unfortunately is sticking in my head. As much as I am not a huge fan of George Clooney, he was right when he said during the Emmy broadcast, "bad behaviour sucks up all the attention". Bad behaviour from absolute maroons have for some miss guided reason, become headline makers. Drunken crazies being paid too much money from the Jersey Shore fill the air waves with activities that I am sure make their families proud have now been associated with assault charges. Lindsay Lohan 's train wreck existence becomes her career and now we come to the best news of the weekend. Paris Hilton, the girl who really has done nothing, has no talent and isn't even all that "hot" fills the pages and screens again. This time busted for alleged cocaine possession. It's way past even trying to figure out how and why her parents seem to condone and obviously contribute to her way of life. The bizarre part is why anyone even cares. Multiple arrests, multiple indecencies and now her latest. Driving down the strip in Las Vegas with her latest boyfriend allegedly smoking pot with the windows open so all could smell was pulled over and then charged with cocaine possession which was found in her purse. Oh wait, "its not my purse". Really? Why hasn't it been reported that the purse didn't contain your identification? Why then hasn't it been reported that your purse was found by someone else who was at your previous location? Why? Most probably because it was your purse and was your cocaine. If my observation is wrong, I apologize, however, if these allegations are correct, it is time to send a message to these attention grabbing maroons. Charge her as you would anyone else and make her serve her time to its fullest. Don't let her money and misguided fame enable her to walk away with the photographers following her to the venue where she is getting her 50 thousand appearance fee. Whether its Lindsay, Britney, Paris or Spencer's pre produced "just found" sex-tape of his wife, can't we just for awhile ignore them and allow the brain cells of our youth a chance to regenerate?

2010-09-01T13:19:00.000-04:00

It is interesting that Tiger Woods played his best round of golf just days after signing his divorce papers. I wonder what triggered the improvement. Perhaps knowing he only had to give maybe 100 instead of 500 million or was it knowing he was free to continue on his happy path without looking over his shoulder or above hers at it may be. It just brings you back to the question, why do these people choose to get married? Is it for the endorsements..the image, you know, Husband, Father..family man. In some of these cases, love certainly doesn't seem to be the root cause. There is nothing wrong with having a good time, jet setting, dating as many as you like, why get married?

Just like Tiger, these people don't realize as in the famous Seinfeld episode, there are those who don't appreciate "double dipping". After the fun stops, they always get caught, praise their wife or husband and either call or hire the very expensive Public Relations firm to make it all better. Oh, and yes, as in Kobe's case, call the Jeweller.

2010-09-01T13:17:00.000-04:00

The TTC

The Toronto Transit Authority or The TTC has an on-line survey which they have encouraged riders to participate in. Do they really want to know how we feel? Do they care what the users of their system feel about the services or lack thereof? Examples of what was asked are: How often do you use it - Your start - end location - How many travelled - How long did you wait for a train - Did you see the Television screen - Did it keep your attention - How old you are - Gender- Education - Income. Are they kidding? Perhaps they should have asked: Was it clean - Was it on-time - Was it worth the money - Was the attendant to take your money actually there - Was the attendant courteous.......

TTC Chair Adam Giambrone recently said,"If we can hook people on transit at an early age, we're going to have them on transit for the rest of their lives." This is the kind of arrogance that has plagued the TTC for a long time. "We will have them hooked"? People use the Transit system Mr Giambrone because it is their only way to get to their job or particular destination. Know this, for most people, if they had an alternative, they would take it. The TTC is NOT the better way, for most, it's the ONLY way. The TTC is over priced with more redundancies than the Federal Government.

Perhaps Mr Giambrone should address some of these areas which Riders of the system have spoken out about.

Drivers:- rude- un-helpful- sitting in limbo areas of terminals while patrons stand cold by the pick-up area- leave while people are waving furiously at them- talk on cell phones while driving (ridiculous - but true)

Ticket, payment takers in station:- don't care or pay attention to see if you've paid- give incorrect change- rude- un-helpful- sometimes absent (why even pay at all)- sitting reading the paper totally unaware of your presence- sometimes 3-4 in booth (how many are needed?)
Constables: - extremely aggressive- glorified security guards- act as if they are actual police officers

Routes:- adding more buses on extremely busy routes- increasing train service - picking up the pace

The TTC is making some strides to improve service in these and other areas. Hopefully they will continue to do so without treating their users like a captive audience but more like the people for whom, in the most part, pay their salaries

2010-07-28T11:58:00.000-04:00

It is increasingly rediculous how city Events have become all about buying crap. What happened to the days where the Event was just that, an Event. Now its "the" place to go, to walk, observe, and buy useless crap. Recently, there was a Street Jazz Festival which started years ago where bands would play on the street a half a block form eachother. When it first started, you could easily walk form band to band and enjoy the music. People would come who's intention was to listen. The street would be blocked from traffic and the music filled the air. After some years, more and more would come to the Event which did make it more difficult to get close but still you could hear and enjoy the music. Because of this kind of attention, greed as usual creeps in. Now, instead of bands a half block from eachother, you have kiosks. Kiosks of venders selling you food, bed sheets (bed sheets?), bubble guns, wrist bands etc. You also have wall to wall people who could care less about the music but there because its an Event. I say, STAY HOME!! I also say, get rid of the Kiosks and bring back the music. This selling of crap is distroying the Event. This is the same now for anything, whether Food, Busker or Doggy festivals. Enough already, why ruin such a good thing. If you need this revenue to hold the Event, don't hold the Event. Its destroying what was great and making it a complete waste of time.

2010-04-13T11:53:00.002-04:00

Yes, I have been a little quiet lately. Re-grouping. I am back baby and it's not going to be pretty.

I am available for your event. I can be there and no one will know it. Sounds quite interesting doesn't it. I'll be there and then the fun will begin with what I write about after. Think about the buzz it can and will bring.

Let me know - - thegriper@yahoo.com

Let the fun begin!!

2010-02-03T09:33:00.003-05:00

Just a question for the masses.

The devastation in Haiti is tragic. The outpouring of supplies and money is incredible. The Celebs and wannabees contributions are although profoundly self-serving, they are extremely needed. My question to those in particular, is this:

If there was a devastating earthquake which toppled buildings and killed hundreds of thousands in lets say - Iran - would you still give? Would you still put on a teary eyed telethon asking us to give our hard-earned money. Tell us about your concern and have your publicists release the amounts you've given?

Just a question - My answer - Not in a flash. Why, because these Celebs and wannabees are self-serving hypocrites and the problem is, most of their followers are simply blind, mindless, SHEEP!

2010-01-12T10:01:00.003-05:00

Mark McGuire admits to using Steroids. Wow what a revelation! Years after the silence of the Hearings where he uses the "I am not talking about the past" rant. Spare us Mark! You used for years, just like, if not more than the rest of them.....Sosa, Bonds you listening?

Why now? Easy. He wants back into Baseball. His lying former Manager Larosa gives him a job as Batting Coach, so part of the "deal" is to come clean. Admit to all prior to Spring Training so as to not create a massive free for all, take part of the sting away and allow the morons to forgive you. What a load of Crap.

He says he feels he still would have hit them all without steroids....he was given a "talent". Really? Given a talent...sure. The talent also was to put the needle in your thigh, drop the pills down your throat, and have the "boys" of the locker room look the other way.

You want to come "clean" Mark. Suggest that your records be removed as well as your name on the Hall of Fame ballot and demand to have the Roger Maris record reinstated.

Then we might look at you in another light, but make no mistake....forget? Not a chance.

2009-12-02T15:25:00.002-05:00

Poor Tiger Woods. He didn't realize, like in the Seinfeld episode, there are those who don't appreciate "double dipping". What a fool.

Why do these people choose to get married? Is it for the endorsements..the image, you know, Husband, Father..family man. It truly is ridiculous. They always get caught, praise their wife and hire the very expensive Public Relations firm to make it all better. Oh, and yes, call the Jeweler.

2009-08-13T11:45:00.002-04:00

What has happened to Twitter? What once seemed like a fun way to read about and comment on events has gone "Soft." These self-serving celeb wannabees simply write to their "Sheep" ridiculous crap like, "I am going for a walk, Tweet soon." What the hell is this crap? It seems its also just being used for these Maroons to sell their junk. Yes, The Griper is there as @TheGriper so don't worry I am letting them have it with both barrels. Feel free to follow and join in to bring these yahoos down a peg or three.

2009-06-26T12:40:00.003-04:00

Michael Jackson has died and he will now be elevated to Elvis stature. The Michael Jackson of the 1970 - 1980's will be missed for the incredible music and for the barriers his music broke down. The Michael Jackson after will be remembered for the freakish manner in which he conducted his life and the constant desire to transform his face into something he was not - Diana Ross. His obsession and sickness in respect to his abuses of children is legendary as well as disgusting. They should never be forgotten or buried under the carpet.

Michael Jackson's life was a double edged sword - Genius and Freak

That's Showbiz baby!! You can't Beat It.

2009-06-02T09:04:00.003-04:00

The fake Reality shows, the supposed spontaneous moments, they are all becoming quite ridiculous and actually extremely insulting to the intelligent viewer. Dean Martin "drunk," we knew was a set-up, but funny. It was never shoved down our throats as "real." Janet Jackson's boob being exposed. The effect and surprise worked.....real, un-planned moment? Who the hell are you kidding. It was rehearsed and planned all the way down to her custom made top which would perfectly come off and expose only her, again, fake boob. Yet, even years later we are still being told..."Wardrobe Malfunction." Sacha Cohen as Bruno landing on Eminem's shoulders with his ass directly, perfectly, in his face....we are led to believe was not set-up. Sure, a 6ft man is slowly being lowered from 50ft in the air and Eminem watches it and does not even put his hands up.....come on! Lets not forget to mention, cameras perfectly in possition, Eminem waiting for Bruno to get off him and then "storms off" convieniently after he had performed himself just 5 minutes earlier. Now we have Spencer Pratt so obviously acting the baffoon on most likely the worst "Reality " show and yet the network will put it on "live" 4 days a week. Why? Because the amount of sheep that are out there being hearded is so vast we could clothe the worlds homeless with thier wool.

2009-05-01T09:48:00.001-04:00

When is it going to end with these Hollywood yahoo's wanting and buying babies? Madonna, Angelina and now Jennifer Aniston. Jennifer I guess is so desperate to be part of the crowd she just doesn't have the talent for, is going to adopt. Then she will feel part of the "club". I can hear it now, " it's okay baby (who needs a name) I will be back from shooting in a few weeks, Mammy the nanny will be here".

It's just so pathetic!

2009-04-16T13:54:00.004-04:00

A few sample Twits from TheGriper on Twitter

brookeburke just finished Pilates, stop the presses. Perhaps crunches are next, stay tuned

fantasia reality show = fantasia needs money = anyone who watches is a sucker

@britneyspears you have kids?

@GriperGroupie what can I tell ya, my take on George Clooney: he's the Rock Hudson of our time.

@perezhilton pass it on - Sorry Kara, it just doesn't work. You may be an "Artist" but you have to go.

2009-04-08T12:40:00.004-04:00

Sony dropped Jessica Simpson from their Country Label due to the fact she doesn't sell and doesn't draw a crowd for her singing. I guess Daddy will decide if the sex tape she'll need to keep her in the public eye should have her "singing" with a male or female. It's all about impact and publicity and we all know Daddy will do anything for his girls.

2009-04-02T12:42:00.003-04:00

Madonna looks like she will get her new trophy kid. Once again, money talks and bullshit walks baby!

It truly is disgusting how these people can and do buy children. Sorry Madonna and Angelina, aren't there any children you can buy, I mean adopt in the US? What happens when the trend ends, are you just going to give them back or just sell them.

2009-03-16T10:20:00.003-04:00

Dick Cheney recently stated:

The Republican Party had accomplished all that it intended in Iraq.

Let's see:

hundreds of thousands dead
trillions in debt

What a shame these "good ole boys" could not squeeze in a 3rd term.

2009-02-23T09:07:00.003-05:00

O.S.C.A.R.'s 02.22.09

O.M.G. W.T.F. R.I.P.

2009-02-05T08:45:00.003-05:00

I realize it is a very hard, demanding and skilled job.....BUT, is it so damn hard to make a coffee with 1 cream and 2 sugars?

2009-01-25T12:27:00.007-05:00

How nice.....someone started "The Griper" Group on Facebook.

I'll have to check it out for your comments...who knows, perhaps it will end up being the biggest Group they have.

Facebook Group - The Griper

thegriper@yahoo.com

2009-01-24T18:53:00.004-05:00

I am sorry, but is there a more GAY show on Television then Bromance with Brody Jenner? Not that having a Gay show on the air is wrong but come on....who is he kidding?

Wouldn't it be great if the "smoke-monster" from Lost got hold of him or even better, someone should have collected all the quality MTV shows and put them on the island just prior to Ben sinking it.

Now that my friends would be entertainment!

2009-01-15T09:21:00.005-05:00

It has been reported Nicole Kidman is not able to watch herself in the movies she has participated in.

That makes me feel better....I can't seem to bring myself to watch her either.

Lately it seems, we are not alone.

2008-12-16T10:41:00.003-05:00

Hello I am Jennifer Aniston and although I have been in the press endlessly lately pertaining to my personal life, I am, and would like to be considered not only a serious person, but a serious actress as well.

Further to that you can read in the latest GQ Magazine. You will know the one, I am on the cover NAKED, wearing just a tie...Seriously

2008-12-04T09:50:00.006-05:00

Rudolph The Rednosed Reindeer aired on CBS last night. 44 years on national television in the USA and 44 years airing all over the world. Millions of VHS cassette, record and DVD units sold.

Arthur Rankin JR. of Rankin/Bass has a law suit pending with Warner Bros. over 1.5 million owing to him in regards to a deal dating back to the late 80's. I am sure he will ultimately get his money and quite frankly he should.

I do find it incredible however that the voice actors who worked on this beloved program have not received a penny more than what they were originally paid back in 1964. Since its first airing, this beloved program has generated millions of dollars in broadcast-rights, video sales and toys. Yes, toys. It is one thing that a contract back in 64 only included a buy-out for several television broadcasts with no residuals, but TOYS?

The only reason the toys come with the original voices is because they don't have to pay the actors again. To replace the voices, they would have to pay. It is truly unbelievable that these talented people have not received even a token in all these years despite the fact millions have been made in many formats and media.

So yes, Arthur Rankin deserves every penny owing....the talented voice actors deserve some too!

I can only imagine how the voice actors of SHREK or The Incredibles of today would react to be treated in this fashion.

2008-12-01T09:03:00.003-05:00

I love all the Celebrities and their children. They're always photographed as such happy carefree families. Take Tom and Katie for example. Such a wonderful family those Cruise's.... Tom, Katie and Suri. Hopefully Suri won't grow up as an only child. (not that there's anything wrong with that)

OH wait, Tom has 2 adopted children. Isn't it interesting that once these Celebrity bastards manage to conceive their own children you never hear about or see the adopted ones again.

Poor things....they will just have to grow up realizing they were just used to gain publicity. If it didn't look so incredibly bad to the public, these Celebrity jokes would probably have tried to give them back.

2008-11-25T09:57:00.002-05:00

Kanye West!!!!!

The only time in the entire existence of Kanye, you'd ever be spoken of in the same breath as Elvis, is when your dead. Then and only then will you have anything in common, however, even in death, Elvis will continue to be more popular than you.

2008-11-25T09:43:00.002-05:00

On the eve of all these so called "Movie Stars" announcing ( for the publicity of course ) they will most likely, probably, maybe not do another movie......

I would like to announce that I too am thinking of not acting anymore. The lure of a regular life with just the family and the nanny's is what I long for. Perhaps the cook as well.

I haven't completely decided however, but I just thought I'd put it out there.

2008-10-31T14:16:00.005-04:00

How nice that the City decided to provide us with a new Garbage Can.
Making it easier for our Sanitary Engineers is always a top priority.

However, would it have killed them to provide us with one that actually made sense?

I realize our Sanitary Engineers have an extremely high skilled job so I am completely confident they could have handled releasing a latch prior to dumping the garbage. Unfortunately our fearless leaders obviously didn't have the same faith as I because these new bins are worse than Hardware Store bought ones. You see, due to the stupidness of our fearless leaders, the Raccoons are having a field day. All they do is knock them over and dinner is served.

Thank you City.....your intelligence never ceases to amaze.

2008-10-08T15:51:00.000-04:00

DON'T BE SHY PEOPLE!

HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY?

thegriper@yahoo.com

2008-09-30T12:09:00.003-04:00

OKAY

Billions for a bailout to the financial district - NO

Millions - Billions in aid to other Countries - YES

Millions for families to eat, have a roof, buy medicine - NO

Billions to fight a useless war - YES

America's priorities - what a Country!!!!

.....and you wonder why this country is perceived the way it is

2008-09-25T15:51:00.001-04:00

A note to Gwyneth Paltrow

Goop.com --- Are you kidding?

GET A GRIP ON REALITY

Nobody cares..................

2008-09-15T10:22:00.003-04:00

Well, another Film Festival has come and gone in Toronto. The powers that be are wondering why wasn't it as exciting, headline grabbing and memorable as past Festivals. There are many answers to that question but the short version is this. The Festival was once intimate, with theaters close together, buzz on the street etc. Now, its all about perception, it's not the "Toronto International Film Festival" any longer, it's TIFF, yes TIFF, keep worrying about easy anagrams instead of what made the Festival great in the first place and instead of TIFF, you will have KISS as in Kiss the festival goodbye.

2008-08-14T11:14:00.003-04:00

Britney on Acting:

"We're just trying to work out with my schedule with the children."

Firstly - and that matters to you?

Secondly - I think if it were something that some idiot Producer would actually consider, they could work around your "what" 1 day a week with your beloved kids.

2008-07-31T09:44:00.002-04:00

Everybody wants something for nothing
But every nothing costs something

There are those who want your possessions
But where are your deserved concessions

..........YEAH SO?.......... YOUR POINT?

2008-06-25T13:53:00.002-04:00

Seven words you can say.......

THE WORLD IS LESSONED WITHOUT GEORGE CARLIN

2008-05-27T11:01:00.004-04:00

The New York Times reports the recent downward trend for Winfrey.

No surprise really. I am actually amazed it has taken so long. Perhaps the answer is people have finally had enough of her, do it this way hypocrisies.

All you have to do is look at her latest "un-doctored" picture of herself on the cover of her magazine to truly realize how full of ...... she really is.

2008-04-09T09:30:00.004-04:00

Naomi Campbell is in the press yet again for being a spoiled little girl who happens to wear clothes for a living. Campbell claims she was only arrested because she is a black woman. "It just goes to show I have to fight for who I am. It's because I'm black".

Really? The rest of us in the universe thought it was because you were being your usual......

Self-Serving-Bitch.

2008-04-08T11:23:00.005-04:00

First Ellen with her dog crisis, now Oprah.

Strange, one always had the impression she was into "Pussy".....Cats.

2008-02-26T10:04:00.003-05:00

No Chris Rock, No Halle Berry, No Jamie Fox, No Denzel Washington, No Whoopi Goldberg, No Eddie Murphy, No Jennifer Hudson......meaning......No endless Oprah Oscar crap which we would have been subjected to weeks and days before and most likely, days after the broadcast on Sunday night.

And to think...there was a belief that Reverse Racism was a thing of the past.

Thanks Oprah for clearing that up for us.

2008-02-19T10:14:00.002-05:00

Lindsay.....you're not Marilyn.

Try some originality, if you're not sure what that word means, I am sure someone in your inner sanctum can explain it to you.

Oh, by the way, Marilyn was dead 6 weeks later....for your sake, please keep that in mind.

2008-01-28T23:27:00.001-05:00

For those interested in leaving a comment for The Griper, send your cards and letters to:

thegriper@yahoo.com

2008-01-08T09:32:00.000-05:00

Roger Clemens has stated he "doesn't give a rats ass" how his alleged steroid use affects his induction into the Hall of Fame or anything else for that matter.

How ironic that it was probably through a "rats ass" the steroids which he has denied he ever took, were first administered in their testing process.

2007-11-27T14:09:00.000-05:00

"Why do I think Celine had the sales and I don't? Because she's a white girl," LaBelle tells magazine MonacoRevue.com.

When is this CRAP going to end? Patti, you are a diva, a beauty and an established singing sensation. You have been for more years than you would like to admit, why do you feel the necessity to not only whine but use this endless reverse-racism crap to bitch about not being "the one" at the moment?

Oh, I am sorry, it got you some press

2007-11-07T13:33:00.000-05:00

I think considering the greed and narrow mindedness that is behind the Strike which is bringing the Entertainment Industry to its knees, it is only fitting to simply pass on a quote from the man who drafted the FIRST Residual Agreement in North America almost 50 years ago.

"TIME ONCE GIVEN IS GONE,
TALENT ONCE RECORDED REMAINS OF VALUE"

2007-10-17T14:05:00.000-04:00

Well, where does one begin. Quite frankly I thought it would take longer to happen. Sad Ellen DeGeneres used her show to save a puppy, I think she should be quite worried that because of this, she has now crossed that proverbial line, and "Jumped the Shark."

2007-10-02T09:17:00.000-04:00

There was a time when you would go to a lake or river, put a craft in the water and enjoy the day. Occasionally you would take this craft out of the water and carry it over a stretch of land and then place it back in the water and continue on your journey. This craft was known as a Canoe. Why is it, that now, all you see around town are these Canoe's, on men's heads. This new hair style has become increasingly annoying to see. Do men have nothing better to do than spend endless hours with hair products creating this stupid look? What's worse, there are those without enough hair to actually comb, who are trying to create this look. Whats next, little paddle extensions?

2007-09-19T08:31:00.000-04:00

O.J. TV is back!!!! Maybe this time the Networks did it. Perhaps the new fall schedule wasn't quite up to snuff, so they got together in a big room, threw a few designer cappuccinos against the wall and decided on what would be a sure thing.......get him in a room, add memorabilia, throw in a few thugs, give one a gun, enable someone to tape it and bang........ O.J. TV, the new Network for the People.

2007-09-10T08:14:00.000-04:00

It is interesting in Human Nature how we tend to gather to watch a Train Wreck. In the case of Britney Spears we can simply thank the 2007 MTV Video Music Awards for graciously providing the Track.

2007-08-21T09:29:00.000-04:00

Star Jones is back on Television. Just what we need, another returning wanabe host expecting our respect while at the same time trying to back peddle on all her lies to her so-called adoring fans. Sorry Star, you are one in name only. As you say, it’s time to turn the page, or in terms you might find easier to understand, the viewers who after quenching their curiosity will simply, turn the channel. See ya, can't say we'll miss ya.

2007-06-26T14:08:00.000-04:00

The machine behind George Clooney is calculatingly trying to elevate his stature to that of a Frank Sinatra. George Clooney the Frank Sinatra of our time? I don't think so......I believe he is more akin to being the Rock Hudson of our time.

2007-06-12T12:13:00.000-04:00

Just a few kindly thoughts pertaining to the
Toronto Transit Commission

Drivers:
- rude
- un-helpful
- erratic...speeding, loss of control
- waiting in limbo areas of terminals while patrons stand cold by the pick-up area
- leave while people are waving furiously for them to wait
- talk on cell phones while driving (ridiculous - but true)

Ticket, payment takers in station:
- don’t care or pay attention to see if you've paid
- give incorrect change
- rude
- un-helpful
- sometimes absent (why even pay at all)
- sitting reading the paper totally unaware of your presence
- sometimes 3-4 of them (how many are needed?)

Constables: "wanna-be police"
- extremely aggressive
- glorified security guards
- try to act intimidating
- believe they are police
(thank goodness these people aren't issued guns, some of these glorified security guards would love to pull one out for there own unjustified self-worth)

Routes:
- how about adding some buses on extremely busy routes
- not just informing us of delays because of construction (30-50 minutes) perhaps adding service, like another bus or 2

These are some complaints and concerns regarding the TTC. These people are being paid good money to at times do absolutely nothing. It is getting quite ridiculous that fares are increasing where there are so many obvious areas where the TTC can save money or even reduce wages for particular jobs that any untrained public school graduate could just as easily do.

$2.75 per ride - $100.00 plus for a pass – for this kind of money we shouldn't have to put of with this kind of attitude or behavior

Oh yes “THE BETTER WAY” who are they kidding?

2007-06-12T11:16:00.001-04:00

"I used to act dumb. ... That act is no longer cute,"
"Now, I would like to make a difference. ... God has given me this new chance."

Paris Hilton – 2007

Damn her public relations people are good – I’d say more but I can’t seem to stop laughing

2007-05-31T09:13:00.000-04:00

It is no shock to hear that A-Rod allegedly yelled "MINE" while running past an opposing player while he attempted to catch an infield fly ball. In today’s world of arrogant, spoiled brat athletes, why would you be surprised that A-Rod or any of these athletes wouldn't think that this particular ball or anything would be "MINE."

2007-05-16T11:23:00.000-04:00

Why is race or ethnicity always brought into question when people are pissed. George Lopez has his show cancelled by ABC and the first thing that he says is "A Chicano can't be on TV but a caveman can." The caveman reference is to a show based on the Geico commercials which ABC is planning for the fall. Sorry George, perhaps your show has run its course, perhaps your show has become too expensive, perhaps your show doesn't have the viewers it once did, perhaps your show just sucks, whatever the reason....Chicano......enough of this crap already.

2007-05-09T11:31:00.000-04:00

This Paris Hilton thing is getting way out of hand. Who the hell does this little miss nobody think she is? The fact she has gotten the attention she has is a mystery - what is she - NOT VERY ATTRACTIVE - NOT VERY TALENTED - NOT VERY INTELLIGENT - but most importantly I guess, NOT VERY POOR - in other words, a NOTHING. Now she wants a petition signed by her many adoring fans to somehow convince the Governor to pardon her which would keep her out of jail. How incredibly bizarre - is this what the entertainment industry of 2007 has come too? Further - Elliot Mintz - haven't you been around long enough not to have your reputation tarnished in this way? Come on Elliot, where has your self respect gone - have you really just become another, (hopefuly), well paid SPIN DOCTOR

2007-04-26T12:14:00.001-04:00

What an absolute shame that Rosie O’Donnell is leaving, kicked off, booted, fired or any other word to describe her outing (no pun intended) from The View. We all won’t know what to think, believe or even feel about any topic known to mankind anymore....WHAT WILL WE DO???? Fear not people of the world..........she doesn’t go anywhere without her homemade pedestal. Look for her on any street corner near you.

2007-04-26T09:01:00.001-04:00

I am so happy the Idol contestants have a passion. “Oh, I have always wanted to do this, it’s my passion.” Really, perhaps you should sing somewhere in public before you try out for this farce of a talent show. When you’re tossed, and in this particular year they all should be, try crying in the shower, but make sure the drain is free, we wouldn’t want you to drown, or do we.

2007-04-26T08:59:00.001-04:00

Bob McCowan is an opinionated, knowledgeable and arrogant sports broadcaster in Toronto but his television ads are annoying. His telling us that after 30 years in the business he doesn’t care what we think is a load of crap. Lets see how much he doesn’t care when his ratings tumble because know one is listening anymore. Lets see how much he doesn’t care when his 6-figure salary shrinks while he broadcasts from a small town in the middle of nowhere with a population that wouldn’t fit in the Rogers Centre.

2007-04-26T08:58:00.001-04:00

Paris Hilton............ enough said.

2007-04-26T08:57:00.001-04:00

Belinda Stronach
Belinda Stronach has quit politics to go back to Magna.......Big Shock! She wanted to be the Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada and then Prime Minister which didn’t work, no fear, she just strolls across the floor accepting an offer from the opposition Liberal Party to be a MP. I guess that didn't work, no fear, she accepts an offer to be executive vice-chairman of Magna International. No fear, she says she will continue to work on issues related to alleviating poverty and disease in Africa. Africa............which Province is that?