Melissa Bessey Publicity

Is The Liberal Party of Canada Really Proposing a Pro Marijuana Bill?

2012-01-07T09:20:00.000-08:00

Ok, before I say anything, check out this link to the Liberal Party's proposed bill 117:

BILL 117

There are just so many things to discuss regarding the legalization of Marijuana that it will take more than one blog post to cover. The question is not just 'are you for or against Marijuana?'. Or 'is Marijuana a 'real' drug or not?' It's a matter of educating people about what Marijuana really is and what it really can do for us beyond debating who should profit more from the harvest and sale of it; the current dealers or the government.

Based on the immediate public reaction in the comments forum of the Liberal Party's webpage, it sounds as though only one informed person has responded so far. Marijuana can be used in many different ways, including medicinally and it does NOT need to be smoked thanks to the revolution of vaporizors. I understand that Marijuana oil can be used to cure cancer (for real). This is just the tip of the iceberg, so I'm off to seek further education from those informed about th benifits of Marijuana, then I'll be back with more on proposed Bill 117.

Further public opinion always welcome :)

2011-03-04T10:44:00.000-08:00

***For Immediate Release***
Toronto March 2nd 2011

New Zealand’s latest star makes her Canadian debut for Canadian Music Week 2011 and performs live on Canada AM.

Canadian Music Week is known for having a pulse on new music both across Canada and internationally and this year they are bringing New Zealand’s latest pop sensation Anita Prime, for a much anticipated show on Thursday March 10th at Toronto’s Hard Rock Cafe.
Anita is a power house songstress who also runs a vocal school where she trains New Zealand’s finest for New Zealand Idol and she too is on her way to becoming a household name.

To kick off Anita’s Canadian debut she will perform live on Canada AM on Monday March 7th and may have a second mystery performance to announce in the coming days.

Anita will be backed by Grammy winning producer & drummer Ron Thaler, Pink’s guitarist and Suzy McNeil’s keyboard player. Anita and her team are very excited to network with the Canadian Entertainment Industry and will be available for interviews throughout next week.

http://www.anitaprimemusic.com

2011-02-26T20:25:00.000-08:00

2010-09-21T21:51:00.000-07:00

WIKKEDDD REGGAE MUSIC - BESS FM JA - TUNE IN -

BESS FM Jamaica - LIVE onair / online

Toronto Urban Music Emcee Runs for Mayor

2010-09-21T08:11:00.000-07:00

Melissa Bessey Exclusive:

10 Questions with Toronto’s Oddest Mayoral Candidate James Di Fiore

When it comes to politics in Toronto, or with any city’s municipal election, it is always difficult to select a candidate who you feel will properly shape the direction of the city and remain true to the mandate laid out in their campaign strategy. It is also difficult to choose a lesser known candidate, as the media will generally only assist the front runners in getting adequate media coverage for their campaign. Another challenge is that the media perceives political candidates with a background outside of politics, as imposters trying to pull the wool over our eyes and hide their true nature. This is not necessarily the case, as I will demonstrate for you today with current fringe candidate for Mayor of Toronto, Mr. James Di Fiore.

Before deciding to run for mayor James has spent the past decade developing a career in journalism while being an active member of the urban music scene in Toronto and abroad. With a background in entertainment, he is both a talented hip hop emcee and investigative journalist who has interviewed countless urban music celebrities and uncovered problems with our federal voting system by voting 3 times in the 2006 elections.

How do the world of hip hop music and politics meet, you ask? Historically there has always been a strong connection between urban artists and their message having political significance or the power to move people to see problems within politics; but without getting into the history of hip hop let’s see what Mr. Di Fiore has to say about running for Mayor of Toronto.

Q. In one sentence, describe your campaign platform?

I have a young, new and unconventional approach to politics in a system dominated by old, out of touch elites.

Q. What inspired you to run for Mayor of Toronto?

After finding out that only 18% of voters between the ages of 18 - 35 actually cast a ballot in 2006 I decided I needed to do my part in dismantling voter apathy. Young adults make up about one third of the entire voting public, but politicians never speak directly to us. This needed to change.

Q. How does your background in hip hop and urban music relate to politics and/or help make you a good candidate for Mayor?

It's interesting, back when I was young I was introduced to politics through artists like Public Enemy, KRS 1 and even NWA. They taught me about how systems worked against people, not for them. If it wasn't for Chuck D I might have never known about believing the hype, so to speak. Today, I can see some of the same types of tricks politicians play in order to retain power - using slogans and bumper sticker statements but never following through with tangible results for the people. This, combined with my background in journalism, makes me the kind of weapon that can call truth to power and force politicians to answer questions the mainstream media isn't asking.

Q. Why is increasing the youth vote numbers so important to you?

Young voters make up the largest voting bloc in Toronto. The question should be, "Why aren't they the most important group?" Politicians pander to seniors, not because their numbers are the highest but because they vote in higher numbers. Young people need to realize that they hold all the power. If we voted at a 60% rate it would be us who decided every election. We hold the keys to City Hall.

Q. In addition to your youth focused campaign, tell me something about your mayoral campaign that is unique from the other candidates?

Well, everyone is talking about bike lanes, it’s the media driven issue of the campaign so far. But the ideas put forth by candidates have been about being for or against, costs and what streets to put them on. But if you asked someone if bikes should have a lane where they are in less danger from being hit by cars, everyone would say yes. So it becomes a question of money. I propose having sponsored bike lanes. We already rename our stadiums and concert halls after companies like Sony and Rogers, so why not have our bike lanes named after Adidas or Nike? This would create jobs, cost nothing to build and would leave enough money for yearly maintenance.

Q. What is the first thing you would do as Mayor of Toronto?

Ha! I would probably tell all the grey haired, blue blooded councillors to get that shocked look off their faces and get to work. They would expect me to fail obviously, so I would meet with each of them one on one and show them I am not merely a gimmick, but an intellectual and hard working person who believes in fair governance. Then, just to keep them on their toes, I'd spontaneously drop a verse as they are walking out of my office. That'd be classic.

Q. What other issues are important to you and why?

It's interesting, most of the issues I find important are actually the responsibility of the Province, not the city. Things like property taxes, rent increases, sexual offenders being released into Toronto neighbourhoods, the problems related to lenient sentences on child rapists, all of these are covered by the Province. I think the next generation will have to fight to become independent and create the legal case for legislative changes when it comes to distribution of powers. Right now, the Province believes that our property taxes should be increased at the same rate as a small town of 500 people somewhere in Northern Ontario. This is not an effective way of governing.

Q. Can you describe the difference between cheating in the municipal election and journalistically uncovering a problem with our voting system, for all the sceptics out there?

Well, cheating means you have a motive that serves one of the candidates and you will manipulate the system in order to reward that candidate. This is done in secret as to not be charged with an offence. Journalistically uncovering a problem with our voting system means you manipulate the system and leave a paper trail so that the powers that be can take a look at the law and put proper safeguards in place so it doesn't happen again. And while I was successful at uncovering the loophole at the federal level, I won't be attempting to do the same thing for the municipal election. ;)

Q. What issues related to running the city are least important to you and why?

Anytime you have special interests dictating policy I think it is a bad idea. The Toronto Island is a good example. You have a tiny number of people dictating the volume of a night club's sound system when that club has more people inside than the island has residents. It resulted in the club shutting down when a solution could have been implemented where everyone was happy. Some people can only see up to their own front yards and forget they are a part of an entire citizenry.

Q. If you win the election, what is your greatest goal as Mayor of Toronto?

To give young people a place at the political table, and to make sure their place is secured permanently. The last thing I want is to help increase voter turnout among young voters only to see it decrease again in the next election in 2014. Trust me, lifer politicians don't want young people to vote. They do not believe we are sophisticated enough and they know that our principles do not match their own. In essence, they are afraid of our votes. And you know what? They should be.

Brighter Days - Lyndon John X

2010-09-20T09:26:00.000-07:00

Announcing the latest album from Canadian roots reggae artist Lyndon John X (LJX) Brighter Days, available NOW!

2010-06-24T09:17:00.000-07:00

EVER-G Canadian CD Release Party - performing "Mission"

2010-06-24T09:09:00.001-07:00

EVER-G - CANADIAN DEBUT

2010-06-24T08:52:00.000-07:00

EVER-G CD Release Party @Sydney's Island Restaraunt Saturday June 19th 2010 Mississauga, ON

Jamaican legend EVER-G makes his Canadian debut at Sydney's Island Restaraunt during this year's NXNE and although he was not part of the festival this was a show not to miss and I'd venture to call it the best off the radar Saturday night event during NXNE. Enjoy the video, more to come!

New Designs - Seak Peek

2010-06-09T18:00:00.000-07:00

Sneak preview of the latest one of a kind Melissa Bessey Jewelry Designs for winter 2011 . . . more updates coming shortly so check back for details on new photography and a 2010 painting series.

Sound Pollution Industry Insider Report

2010-01-16T20:53:00.000-08:00

Sound Pollution Industry Insider Report

2009-10-03T21:46:00.000-07:00

2009-10-03T21:45:00.001-07:00

Melissa wants you to check out a photo on MySpace in the My Photos album

2009-09-08T19:51:00.001-07:00

Melissa Bessey Art @Pop With Brains September 09 show. . .@The Rivoli 334 Queen St. W. Toronto
Melissa wants you to check out a photo on MySpace in the My Photos album

Shared via AddThis

TRISH - Best Day of My Life - Behind the Scenes

2009-08-20T11:29:00.001-07:00

Trish and director HARV of 235films, discussing the #1st scene and slightly posing for the camera.

Got Candy? Now that's a serious sweet tooth!

Preping the lady of the hour. Trish's #1 make up must have is knock out lips and this is by far the hottest lip color I've seen all summer.

TRISH - Best Day of My Life - Behind the Scenes

2009-08-20T11:29:00.000-07:00

2009-08-20T10:23:00.000-07:00

TRISH - New Music Video - Best Day of My Life

2009-08-19T23:46:00.001-07:00

Just home from the set of TRISH's latest music video, Best Day of Your Life. Wicked behind the scenes photos. . .check back for photos in the AM.

2009-08-12T19:11:00.001-07:00

http://vimeo.com/5415111

Latest video from TRISH - Bump. This track is very unique & hot + look out for the cameo appearance from her girl Jully Black!

Nat Geo Music - Geo Sessions - When You Were Young Video by Bedouin Soundclash - MySpace Video

2009-08-10T19:41:00.001-07:00

Nat Geo Music - Geo Sessions - When You Were Young Video by Bedouin Soundclash - MySpace Video

Shared via AddThis

2009-08-06T08:32:00.000-07:00

Jambana - Formerly Air Jamaica Day - Caribana Weekend's best family friendly event - AUG. 3 09 - Downsview Park - Irie Vibes

H.I.M. Kwesi Selassie opens the show with reggae music from Ghana

Tony 'Gitz' on the lead Guitar

Fans arrive in the V.I.P. tent area, front of stage

2009-07-02T20:45:00.000-07:00

2009-06-15T20:03:00.000-07:00

The Future.

Rouge Valley

2009-06-12T21:15:00.001-07:00

Walking east along Steels Avenue past McCowan Rd. urban Toronto comes to screeching halt and nature begins. Looking down the country road (Steels), Toronto's only remaining farm land is represented by the southern boarder of Markham to the North and the city of Toronto (Scarborough) to the south. Being from Niagara, I suddenly felt at home thanks to the beautiful scenery but the Rouge Valley has a different history which is ominously present by the vacant century farm homes to be seen along the way, now property of the City of Toronto.

Rouge Valley Road Kill

R.I.P. mama.

From the portion of Steels I saw, it appears all remaining farmers live on the North side of the street while the abandoned buildings; now disputed between the Scarborough Historical Society and Toronto Hydro; and farm land are on the South side. The city of Toronto was able to take posession of the land in the name of the preservation of the Rouge Valley.

Portrait of a Journalist.

And Then We Walked Some More

2009-06-12T07:01:00.001-07:00

While walking with my favorite National Post reporter, Peter Kuitenbrouwer, we discovered this abandoned century farm house and barn which made for the most creative shots of the day. There are many more which I will upload over the next week but here are my top pics so far.

Walking with Peter Kuitenbrouwer

2009-06-12T06:29:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I joined The National Post's Peter Kuitenbrouwer on an instalment of his annual walking expose, this year titled "The Walk Across Toronto." Here are some images from our jaunt along the boarder of Toronto and Markham where Toronto's only farm land still remains and the Rouge Valley offers both contraversy for local farmers and solace for the near by Toronto Zoo.
A self proclaimed ledite, here Peter is pictured with his coveted note book which contains a dialy log of his journey, quotes from people who's story he's told along the way and important details for his stories.

This was one of the first photos of the day and words could not describe how wrong it felt, stumbling upon this site.

My Daily Poem

2009-06-08T08:07:00.000-07:00

The internet is full of news on the recession, terrorism and of course celebrity gossip but as we transition daily publications from paper to the net in hopes of a greener tomorrow, I thought I'd help reintroduce some honest creativity with a daily poem. Enjoy!

June 8th - "Visual Thinker"

Thoughts become words.

Words become images.

Single words extracted from conversations

to become my mind's absurdities and abstractions.

By fear and creativity.

Stop and think clearly.

IrieFood Joint

2009-05-29T19:30:00.000-07:00

Extra, Extra, read all about it. . .

Irie Food Joint needs more Red Stripe

and there is no doubt about it!

I just love this wall. lol.

2009-02-04T22:13:00.000-08:00

Chinese Lantern Festival @ Ontario Place 08

2009-02-03T22:13:00.000-08:00

My Photos Theme of the Day:

My Favorite Ink!

R.I.P. K.C.B. = my dad 4ever, #22. But don't cry, it's not a sad thing when we remember.

Shout out to Danni Boy @ Way Cool, Queen St. - punk (& sexy, girlie tat) artist. If u want vibrant color, Danni will treat u good! ! ! Chk. it out.

2009-01-31T22:00:00.000-08:00

New Year New Blog

2009-01-31T21:54:00.000-08:00

HNY 2K9

I joined blogger last year but didn't really hop on the blog train right away. Now I'm ready so look out interwebz, Meliss'a keeping u updated in 2009!

2008-09-06T22:54:00.000-07:00

Solitaire

2008-09-06T22:51:00.000-07:00

Screw Face origianal . . . Mr. Kardinal

2008-09-06T22:46:00.000-07:00

Welcome 2 Tdot

2008-09-06T22:43:00.000-07:00

Saukrates @ the Freal Frequency 1oyr Anniversary show. . .