Halloween, 87.5, 4%, and Shakedown
Where did the weekend go? As I sat down to write this morning, there were simply too many hot topics to choose from, so I decided to write a little bit about everything. Although some of these topics really deserve their own chance in the spotlight, and a bit more commentary than what I’m going to provide, hopefully they at least spark some comments. On that note, tomorrow we’ll be announcing the long awaited launch of Kingstonist’s newest contest.
Halloween: This was our first Halloween in the new house, and we were honestly excited about handing out candy. We purchased a few large boxes of treat-size, nut free chocolate bars, carved our pumpkin, and dressed up with the intention of heading out afterwards. Then we waited, and waited, and waited some more. When the night was all said and done, we had a measly 8 trick or treaters, who ended up with the bulk of our candy. Where have all the trick or treaters gone? To the Mall? I suppose we’ll know to buy less chocolate next year, although I suspect my wife isn’t complaining about the chocolate surplus around the house. Otherwise, Downtown and the Ghetto were hoppin’ with enthusiastic costumed characters.
87.5: Is there a local radio station that subscribes to these frequency numbers? I wouldn’t know as I am sort of a CBC snob, and in any case, the numbers don’t refer to radio. 87.5 was the price of gas at the Canadian Tire on the corner of Bath and Princess last night. We nearly had a full tank so it wasn’t worth it for us, but this afternoon I’m planning on driving around aimlessly until I need gas, just so I can take advantage of the rock bottom prices. In all seriousness, it looks like all of Kingston is enjoying lower gas prices; nearly a 40 cent per litre savings in comparison to summer prices. Economic downtown, recession or whatever you call it, I’m a big fan of cheap petroleum products.
4%: As I previously mentioned, I am a new homeowner and I’m still learning about how property taxes factor into my budget. A few weeks ago we received a letter from the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation, which was a long winded explanation of how our property taxes were being reassessed for the first time in a few years. I filed this letter as a normal piece of home-related correspondence, which required no real action nor was it cause for concern. After a bit of digging, I discovered that MPAC’s letter might be the first sign of a 4% property tax increase. For us that’s less than $100, but I can think of better things to do with my money, than give more of it to a City that seems to waste it on hockey arenas and swimming pools.
Soul Shakedown: Saturday night was just as adventurous as Friday, as we headed out to Modern Fuel to take in our second Soul Shakedown. The dance party is different than anything you’d encounter at the local clubs, as they really focus on a diverse array of music from all over the globe. Half the time you didn’t even know what language the vocals were, but it really doesn’t matter if you’re enjoying the groove. With an impromptu break dancing circle, DJ’s who’re nicely advancing their skills, and a chance to support QCRED, you can’t go wrong. Don’t miss out on the next one!
Don’t forget to comment, and be sure to check back tomorrow for details about our newest contest!