TomTom's Musical Adventures

Helping Animals One Search At a Time

2009-08-11T10:13:00.000-07:00

In the recent years, I have noticed myself taking an interest in animal cruelty and advocacy issues. From seeing stray animals on the streets, to hearing of cruel mistreatment from owners, I have decided to start taking more of a stance on these issues. As citizens of this world, we have responsibilities to protect not only our loved ones, but also the animals that contribute to our well being.

How can someone help and get invovled?

The American Humane Association is a place to start. It is a non-profit national organization dedicated to protecting both children and animals, in addition it has been in operation since 1877. With such a long-standing dedication to the protection of children and animals, the AHA offers many resources for individuals to donate, volunteer, and get involved at their national and local animal advocacy events.

This organization is well-organized and easy to get involved with, but could always benefit from more exposure. Engineworks is a company devoting some of their resources to this very concept. By helping increase awareness online for animal advocacy, Engineworks and other blogs like this one, can help spread and support organizations like the American Humane Association.

All of us have the opportunity to help animals one search a a time.

(Photo courtesy of American Humane Association)

2009-07-03T12:27:00.001-07:00

So my internet is down until monday. :( sorry for the no postings. I have some cool things to share, so stay posted.

Have a fantastical 4th of July!

Heath Saraceno Leaving Senses Fail

2009-06-30T14:05:00.001-07:00

Nooooooooo! Dang it! So I have been listening to Senses Fail since their EP, From Depths of Dreams and I love their music. The emotions that come out of frontman Buddy Neilson head, really show hardship and a sense of overcoming your shortfalls. Plus, his scream could wake the dead! Anyways, after reading the AP article, it looks like Heath is leaving on good terms. It still makes me sad though.

So about 3 months ago I was at The New Found Glory show here in Portland. I was just minding my own business, drinking my beer with a friend, when in between sets, Buddy walked by. I proceeded to calmly freak out and introduce myself. He was a really nice guy and seemed very appreciative that I knew who he was. This is what I always talk about with bandmates, friends, family, etc. Nothing ticks me off more when a band or artist starts getting more and more national exposure, then all of a sudden turn into these higher beings and believe they are a gift from god. (cough cough MAE) I do understand being famous comes with difficulties, but seriously, your fans are why you wake up in the morning and you get to play/sing/dance or whatever.

Buddy Neilson you and Senses Fail rock man. More bands need to have this attitude.

Hi! My name is Tom.

2009-06-29T22:37:00.001-07:00

So this is the first posting...whoohoo! Where to begin? Well let's start with my favorite band who recently got back together and will be embarking on a summer tour this July...Blink-182. These dudes are why I am here today, you know that struggling musician going from one job to another, while at night writing songs and playing shows, wishing he could get paid to do what he loves...yeah that's me.

Blink-182 is a band that really cares about their fans. This is proven by their bass player Mark Hoppus and his use of Twitter. With over 500,000 followers, he really connects and shows that his fans are why he is successful; an attribute that not too many artists these days have. Twitter is an amazing tool to stay connected with your friends but also market your band. From tour updates, to informing people of anything going on in your band, twitter can only benefit your bands exposure. I use it and so should you. Plus it's free.(follow me @imamagiunicorn haha)

I do believe the will be releasing a single very very soon, so stay tuned. I will be sure talking about it.