Fendermender

Gonna get a red guitar. . . or shorten that finger Thanks for celebrating with us, folks. No word yet on how much we hauled in for the Humane Society Building Fund, but I'm sure there will be a few wagging tails. Cheers! Meow! Wooff!

Edwin and the Bedouins play out of Montreal. Someone still local is a better bet.

Just had to slip this in: Introducing Extinct, the debut CD from the Real Gone Daddies. The 'Daddies have been playing original music in Ottawa-area clubs and festivals for a number of years, and the completion of this first studio album marks a milestone for the band. Mavericks (221 Rideau Street) is hosting the cd release party on Friday December 8, 2006. The Hungry Freaks will begin, with a zany tribute to the music of Frank Zappa and the Mothers of Invention. There will also be a screening of "Das Rad", an Academy Award-nominated short animation feature. Real Gone Daddies will follow, with two sets of originally conceived music. Go to www.realgonedaddies.com for more; come to Mavericks for the real deal... Terry

Go to a store with a good selection of sticks and spend some time trying a variety of sizes on a practice pad. Look for comfort in weight, length and diameter. Tip shape can be important, too. Let the staff make suggestions, but reserve the decision for yourself. Don't be led by brand names or advertising. Buy a few different sizes, and brands. Your taste in sticks will likely change over time, so enjoy the hunt.