Archive for September, 2005
Toy Instruments - Not Just for Kids
by Susie Watson on September 27th, 2005
What took so long? Toy instruments are working their way into new
music in some interesting ways, thanks to mavericks like Mike
Mahaffey of Self, and Mike Langlie of Twink. On toy piano,
classically-trained innovator Margaret Leng Tan and Wendy Mae
Chambers show their chops in concert halls kneeling before toy mini-
grands. These and others carry on the tradition started by Mozart and
expanded by Cage. The Extensible Toy Piano Project invites composers
to get in on the fun. Susie shows off her new toy instrument
collection (which she can’t play yet) and extols the virtues of toy
music. Chime in with your stories!
It’s Reigning Cats and Dogs
by Susie Watson on September 20th, 2005
Our pets are our children, more than ever before. Barb and Susie look
at the pet owning trends and statistics, the increase in pet
memorializing, pet accessories, pets AS accessories, and what it says
about us. And check out the funniest cat clothing site ever, Cat
Prin, a Japanese company determined to get your cat into a dress.
Glamourdog.com will knock your frilly socks off. Then there are the
new hybrid dogs: Pookimo, Shepadoodle, Torkie, and say it isn’t so,
the Saint Berdoodle, yes, that’s a poodle mated with a Saint Bernard.
Everyday Technology We Love To Hate
by Susie Watson on September 6th, 2005
Gregg Luhring pinch hits for Susie during this discussion covering
everyday technology that drives us crazy. The list includes pre-paid
phone cards, computerized gas pumps and the ultimate Dante’s Inferno
- customer service phone loops to nowhere! Listen in and let them
know what technology drives you crazy.

