Okay, circuit bending the other day was freakin' awesome. Montreal musician, Lisa Gamble (http://gambletron.ca/) hosted. Basically we were given kids toys that make sound (battery operated) and taught how to open them up and mess with their circuit boards in sonically interesting ways. Watch out, Smithers. I'll be heading to New to You with a sautering iron in hand... That night, she performed at a local art collective, using an old circuit bent Calico (sp?) to make sounds.

During the second plenary--super intense--there was a fantastic moment where NCRA Executive Director Shelley Robinson was presenting the annual financial report and proposed budget and said she couldn't look over her shoulder at the projector screen because she'd hurt her neck "doing karaoke". Yeah, the vibe is definitely relaxed.

What else have I attended? I went to a workshop on radio art that was pretty cool -- there were lots of ideas about doing really unique stuff, which I think could entice new people into our studio to try out some sound art. A workshop on volunteer recruitment and retention and one on remote broadcasting.

But the big news is that our very own Glen Ingram was awarded the NCRA Volunteer of the Year award last night. I was proud to accept it on his behalf. I didn't speak eloquently (being somewhat a nervous public-speaker) but I believe I said something along the lines of, "He really, really deserves this award, so thank you very much." Well done, Glen.

The conference is definitely winding down. I'm heading off to listen to a keynote speaker this evening and then, for me, that's it. There's a final plenary tomorrow morning, but I'm travelling. It's been fun, informative, and very inspiring.

From NCRC, Kingston, Ontario.