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Reflections & Reveries: A Poetry Book by Gail M. Murray

Poetry is subjective. Like song lyrics, you either like poetry or you don't. But...

If you enjoy poetry by Canadian poets do check out Gail M. Murray's book: Reflections & Reveries

She has a book launch coming up on April 14th 2024 at the Stone Cottage Pub in Scarborough, Ontario. See the book launch details below:

About the Author

Gail M. Murray B.A. B. ED. was an English teacher and teacher-librarian with a focus on drama and literature. Gail grew up on a small farm in Pickering surrounded by nature, walking in woods, fields and gardens like the Romantics. For several years, Gail performed with Scarborough Theatre Guild and Scarborough Music Theatre. After retiring Gail became a free-lance writer. Like Keats, she seeks to capture the essence of the moment. Gail’s writing is a response to her natural and emotional environment.

Her poems have been published in Written Tenfold, Blank Spaces, Wordscape, Arborealis, The Banister, CommuterLit.com and her collection Reflections and Reveries. Her creative non-fiction has appeared in The Globe and Mail, Trellis, Heartbeats,  Renaissance, The Ontario Gardener, NOW Magazine, Blank Spaces, Just Words Volume 2, Stony Bridges, Ottawa Review of Books, Historical Novels Review, Our Canada, More of Our Canada, Devour and Our Canada, Our Country, Our Stories.

Speed Boats, Ranked

By Chaz G. T. Patto

Saying decisively that a certain product is "the best" can really vary year by year as styles change and models get updated, become obsolete or are discontinued. But major companies also have reputations to consider.

Ranking the reputations of manufacturers is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences, specific categories, and customer experiences. The reputation of manufacturers can be influenced by factors such as quality, craftsmanship, design, durability, customer service, and value for money. While it is a difficult process to provide an all-encompassing ranking, here are several well-regarded manufacturers with a stellar reputation:

1. Sea Ray: Sea Ray is widely regarded as one of the most reputable speed boat manufacturers. They have a long-standing history and offer a diverse range of boats, including sport boats and luxury yachts. Sea Ray boats are known for their craftsmanship, performance, and attention to detail. They often receive positive reviews for their quality construction, comfort, and overall value.

2. Boston Whaler: Boston Whaler is a well-established brand known for its unsinkable boats and innovative designs. They offer a variety of models, including center console boats, dual console boats, and cruisers. Boston Whaler boats are recognized for their durability, safety features, and seaworthiness. They often receive positive feedback for their stability, versatility, and ability to handle rough waters.

3. Yamaha Boats: Yamaha is a reputable manufacturer known for its high-performance boats and personal watercraft. They offer a range of models, including jet boats and center console boats. Yamaha boats are appreciated for their reliability, speed, and advanced features. They often receive positive reviews for their agile handling, fuel efficiency, and user-friendly controls.

4. Formula Boats: Formula is known for its high-performance and luxurious speed boats. They specialize in producing high-quality boats with attention to detail and advanced technologies. Formula boats are recognized for their speed, comfort, and sleek designs. They often receive positive feedback for their power, handling, and high-end features.

5. Malibu Boats: Malibu is a reputable brand known for its wakeboard and watersports boats. They offer a range of models designed for wakeboarding, wakesurfing, and waterskiing. Malibu boats are appreciated for their performance on the water, versatility, and wake-shaping technologies. They often receive positive reviews for their build quality, customizable features, and wakeboarding capabilities.

6. MasterCraft: MasterCraft is known for its high-quality ski boats and wakeboard boats. They are recognized for their performance, precision, and cutting-edge technologies. MasterCraft boats often receive positive feedback for their wake-shaping capabilities, quality construction, and innovative features such as customizable wake profiles.

7. Nautique: Nautique is a reputable manufacturer specializing in wakeboard and watersports boats. They offer a range of models designed for wakeboarding, wakesurfing, and waterskiing. Nautique boats are appreciated for their performance, innovation, and luxurious features. They often receive positive reviews for their wake-shaping capabilities, quality craftsmanship, and user-friendly controls.

8. Regal Boats: Regal is known for its luxury and performance-oriented boats. They offer a range of models, including sport boats and cruisers. Regal boats are recognized for their stylish designs, quality construction, and comfortable interiors. They often receive positive feedback for their handling, fuel efficiency, and overall value.

 

Ranking Motorcycles

By Chaz G. T. Patto

Saying decisively that a certain product is "the best" can really vary year by year as styles change and models get updated, become obsolete or are discontinued. But major companies also have reputations to consider.

Ranking the reputations of manufacturers is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences, specific categories, and customer experiences. The reputation of manufacturers can be influenced by factors such as quality, craftsmanship, design, durability, customer service, and value for money. While it is a difficult process to provide an all-encompassing ranking, here are several well-regarded manufacturers with a stellar reputation:

1. Honda: Honda is widely regarded as one of the most reputable motorcycle manufacturers. They have a long-standing history and offer a diverse range of motorcycles, catering to different riding styles and preferences. Honda motorcycles are known for their reliability, performance, and technological innovations. They often receive positive reviews for their build quality, fuel efficiency, and extensive dealer networks.

2. Yamaha: Yamaha is a well-established brand known for its versatile and high-performance motorcycles. They offer a wide range of motorcycles, including sport bikes, cruisers, off-road bikes, and scooters. Yamaha motorcycles are recognized for their performance, handling, and advanced technologies. They often receive positive feedback for their durability, design, and overall value.

3. Kawasaki: Kawasaki is a reputable manufacturer known for its sport bikes, off-road motorcycles, and cruisers. They offer a diverse lineup of motorcycles with a focus on performance and power. Kawasaki motorcycles are recognized for their agility, acceleration, and cutting-edge technologies. They often receive positive feedback for their performance on both the track and the road.

4. Ducati: Ducati is a reputable brand known for its high-performance sport bikes and iconic designs. They are recognized for their emphasis on performance, precision, and racing heritage. Ducati motorcycles often receive positive feedback for their powerful engines, agile handling, and distinct Italian styling. They are appreciated by enthusiasts for their thrilling riding experience.

5. Harley-Davidson: Harley-Davidson is an iconic brand renowned for its cruiser motorcycles and rich heritage. They are known for their distinctive design, powerful engines, and unique riding experience. Harley-Davidson motorcycles often evoke a sense of tradition, freedom, and individuality. They receive positive reviews for their craftsmanship, customization options, and community-building events.

6. BMW Motorrad: BMW Motorrad is known for its high-quality motorcycles with a focus on performance, comfort, and advanced technologies. They offer a range of motorcycles, including sport bikes, adventure bikes, touring bikes, and electric models. BMW motorcycles are appreciated for their engineering excellence, innovative features, and luxurious designs. They often receive positive reviews for their reliability, long-distance comfort, and sophisticated electronics.

7. Triumph: Triumph is known for its classic and modern classic motorcycles with British heritage. They offer a range of motorcycles, including cruisers, sport bikes, and adventure bikes. Triumph motorcycles are recognized for their style, character, and craftsmanship. They often receive positive reviews for their distinctive design, smooth engines, and comfortable ergonomics.

8. Suzuki: Suzuki is a reputable manufacturer offering a diverse lineup of motorcycles, including sport bikes, cruisers, and off-road bikes. They are known for their affordability, reliability, and performance. Suzuki motorcycles often receive positive feedback for their solid build quality, user-friendly nature, and overall value.

 

Small Airplane Manufacturers, Ranked

By Chaz G. T. Patto

Saying decisively that a certain product is "the best" can really vary year by year as styles change and models get updated, become obsolete or are discontinued. But major companies also have reputations to consider.

Ranking the reputations of manufacturers is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences, specific categories, and customer experiences. The reputation of manufacturers can be influenced by factors such as quality, craftsmanship, design, durability, customer service, and value for money. While it is a difficult process to provide an all-encompassing ranking, here are several well-regarded manufacturers with a stellar reputation:

1. Cessna Aircraft Company: Cessna is widely regarded as one of the most reputable manufacturers of small airplanes. They have a long-standing history and offer a diverse range of aircraft models, including single-engine piston aircraft and light business jets. Cessna airplanes are known for their reliability, performance, and safety features. They often receive positive reviews for their durability, ease of maintenance, and global service network.

2. Piper Aircraft, Inc.: Piper is a well-established manufacturer known for its general aviation aircraft. They offer a range of models, including single-engine piston aircraft and light sport aircraft. Piper airplanes are recognized for their reliability, versatility, and comfortable cabins. They often receive positive feedback for their solid construction, handling characteristics, and customer support.

3. Beechcraft Corporation: Beechcraft is known for its high-quality general aviation aircraft. They offer a variety of models, including single-engine and twin-engine piston aircraft, turboprops, and business jets. Beechcraft airplanes are appreciated for their performance, craftsmanship, and advanced avionics systems. They often receive positive reviews for their comfortable cabins, safety features, and longevity.

4. Cirrus Aircraft: Cirrus is a reputable manufacturer known for its technologically advanced and innovative aircraft. They specialize in producing composite aircraft with features such as parachute systems, glass cockpits, and advanced avionics. Cirrus airplanes are recognized for their safety features, performance, and luxurious interiors. They often receive positive feedback for their advanced technologies, modern designs, and customer support.

5. Diamond Aircraft Industries: Diamond Aircraft is known for its modern and fuel-efficient aircraft. They offer a range of models, including single-engine piston aircraft and light sport aircraft. Diamond airplanes are appreciated for their composite construction, advanced avionics, and comfortable cabins. They often receive positive reviews for their fuel efficiency, low operating costs, and overall value.

6. Mooney International Corporation: Mooney is a manufacturer recognized for its high-performance and efficient aircraft. They specialize in producing high-speed, single-engine piston aircraft. Mooney airplanes are known for their aerodynamic design, advanced technologies, and performance capabilities. They often receive positive feedback for their speed, range, and handling characteristics.

7. Pilatus Aircraft Ltd.: Pilatus is a reputable manufacturer known for its versatile turboprop aircraft. They offer models such as the PC-12 and PC-24, which cater to various applications including executive transport and utility operations. Pilatus airplanes are recognized for their ruggedness, short takeoff and landing capabilities, and advanced avionics systems. They often receive positive reviews for their versatility, reliability, and cabin comfort.

8. Textron Aviation: Textron Aviation produces a range of small aircraft under brands such as Beechcraft and Cessna. They offer a variety of models, including single-engine piston aircraft, turboprops, and business jets. Textron Aviation airplanes are appreciated for their performance, reliability, and customer support.

 

Ranking Hot Tubs

By Chaz G. T. Patto

Saying decisively that a certain product is "the best" can really vary year by year as styles change and models get updated, become obsolete or are discontinued. But major companies also have reputations to consider.

Ranking the reputations of manufacturers is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences, specific categories, and customer experiences. The reputation of manufacturers can be influenced by factors such as quality, craftsmanship, design, durability, customer service, and value for money. While it is a difficult process to provide an all-encompassing ranking, here are several well-regarded manufacturers with a stellar reputation:

1. Jacuzzi: Jacuzzi is widely regarded as one of the most reputable hot tub manufacturers. They have a long history and are known for their innovation, high-quality craftsmanship, and advanced hydrotherapy features. Jacuzzi hot tubs often receive positive reviews for their performance, durability, and luxurious design.

2. Sundance Spas: Sundance Spas is a well-established brand known for its high-quality hot tubs. They offer a range of models with various sizes and features, including advanced hydrotherapy systems and energy-efficient designs. Sundance Spas hot tubs are appreciated for their durability, comfort, and reliability.

3. Hot Spring: Hot Spring is recognized for its reliable and well-built hot tubs. They offer a wide range of models with advanced features such as targeted jet systems, energy-efficient designs, and user-friendly controls. Hot Spring hot tubs often receive positive feedback for their performance, comfort, and long lifespan.

4. Bullfrog Spas: Bullfrog Spas is known for its innovative design and customizable jet systems. Their unique JetPak technology allows users to personalize their hot tub experience. Bullfrog Spas hot tubs are recognized for their quality construction, energy efficiency, and customizable features.

5. Caldera Spas: Caldera Spas offers a range of hot tubs known for their therapeutic benefits and comfort. They prioritize relaxation and wellness features, including targeted jets and ergonomic seating. Caldera Spas hot tubs often receive positive reviews for their performance, durability, and soothing experience.

6. Master Spas: Master Spas is a reputable brand known for its well-built hot tubs with various features and sizes. They offer a range of models, including swim spas, that are appreciated for their quality construction, powerful jet systems, and energy-efficient designs.

7. Viking Spas: Viking Spas is known for its affordable hot tub options without compromising on quality. They offer a variety of models with different features and sizes. Viking Spas hot tubs often receive positive feedback for their value for money, durability, and decent performance.

8. American Spas: American Spas offers a range of hot tubs known for their affordability and quality. They provide a variety of models with features such as hydrotherapy jets, LED lighting, and efficient heating systems. American Spas hot tubs are appreciated for their value, durability, and ease of use.

Sofas, Ranked

By Chaz G. T. Patto

Saying decisively that a certain product is "the best" can really vary year by year as styles change and models get updated, become obsolete or are discontinued. But major companies also have reputations to consider.

Ranking the reputations of manufacturers is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences, specific categories, and customer experiences. The reputation of manufacturers can be influenced by factors such as quality, craftsmanship, design, durability, customer service, and value for money. While it is a difficult process to provide an all-encompassing ranking, here are several well-regarded manufacturers with a stellar reputation:

1. IKEA: IKEA is a globally recognized brand known for its wide range of affordable furniture, including sofas. They offer a variety of sofa styles, sizes, and designs to suit different tastes and budgets. IKEA sofas are appreciated for their value for money, modern designs, and ease of assembly. They often receive positive reviews for their durability and practicality.

2. Ashley Furniture: Ashley Furniture is a reputable manufacturer offering a wide range of sofas and other furniture pieces. They are known for their affordable and stylish designs, catering to different styles and preferences. Ashley Furniture sofas often receive positive feedback for their comfort, durability, and overall quality.

3. La-Z-Boy: La-Z-Boy is a well-established brand known for its comfortable and reclining sofas. They are recognized for their craftsmanship, quality materials, and customizable options. La-Z-Boy sofas are often praised for their comfort, durability, and innovative features such as power reclining and adjustable headrests.

4. Ethan Allen: Ethan Allen is a renowned manufacturer of high-quality furniture, including sofas. They offer a range of styles, from classic to contemporary, and are known for their craftsmanship and attention to detail. Ethan Allen sofas often receive positive reviews for their elegant designs, durability, and customizability.

5. Crate and Barrel: Crate and Barrel is a reputable retailer known for its stylish and contemporary furniture offerings, including sofas. They collaborate with renowned designers and offer a variety of sofa styles and fabric choices. Crate and Barrel sofas are appreciated for their modern designs, quality construction, and overall aesthetic appeal.

6. Pottery Barn: Pottery Barn is known for its classic and timeless furniture, including sofas. They offer a range of styles, from traditional to modern, and often emphasize comfort and durability. Pottery Barn sofas are recognized for their quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and versatile designs.

7. Restoration Hardware: Restoration Hardware is a luxury furniture brand known for its high-end sofas and home furnishings. They are recognized for their exquisite designs, premium materials, and attention to detail. Restoration Hardware sofas often receive positive feedback for their luxury appeal, craftsmanship, and comfort.

8. Natuzzi: Natuzzi is a well-regarded brand specializing in leather sofas. They are known for their Italian craftsmanship, premium leather upholstery, and attention to detail. Natuzzi sofas are often praised for their elegant designs, comfort, and high-quality materials.

 

Ranking Television Manufacturers

By Chaz G. T. Patto

Saying decisively that a certain product is "the best" can really vary year by year as styles change and models get updated, become obsolete or are discontinued. But major companies also have reputations to consider.

Ranking the reputations of manufacturers is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences, specific categories, and customer experiences. The reputation of manufacturers can be influenced by factors such as quality, craftsmanship, design, durability, customer service, and value for money. While it is a difficult process to provide an all-encompassing ranking, here are several well-regarded manufacturers with a stellar reputation:

1. Samsung: Samsung is a prominent player in the television market and is recognized for its wide range of offerings. They offer both LED and QLED models, focusing on vibrant colors, high brightness, and innovative features. Samsung TVs often receive positive reviews for their picture quality, HDR performance, intuitive user interface, and integration with other Samsung devices.

2. LG: LG is a well-established brand that has gained a strong reputation for its television offerings. They are known for their OLED display technology, which offers superior contrast, wide viewing angles, and precise color accuracy. LG TVs often receive positive feedback for their image quality, smart features powered by webOS, and sleek designs.

3. Sony: Sony is widely regarded as one of the most reputable television manufacturers. They are known for their commitment to image quality, innovative display technologies, and premium features. Sony TVs often receive positive reviews for their vibrant colors, deep black levels, accurate picture reproduction, and excellent motion handling.

4. Panasonic: Panasonic is known for producing high-quality televisions with a focus on accurate color reproduction and natural image processing. They offer both LED and OLED models, catering to different consumer preferences. Panasonic TVs often receive positive feedback for their cinematic picture quality, impressive motion handling, and solid build quality.

5. TCL: TCL has made a significant impact in the television market, particularly with their affordable yet feature-rich offerings. They offer a range of LED and QLED models, often equipped with Roku smart TV functionality. TCL TVs often receive positive reviews for their value for money, good picture quality, and user-friendly interface.

6. Hisense: Hisense is a Chinese manufacturer that has gained recognition for its budget-friendly televisions. They offer a variety of LED and QLED models with features such as HDR support and smart TV capabilities. Hisense TVs often receive positive feedback for their affordability, decent picture quality, and reliable performance.

7. Vizio: Vizio is known for its value-oriented televisions, offering competitive prices without compromising on essential features. They offer LED and OLED models with smart TV functionality. Vizio TVs often receive positive reviews for their affordability, solid performance, and user-friendly interface.

8. Philips: Philips produces a range of televisions with a focus on image quality, offering both LED and OLED models. Philips TVs often receive positive feedback for their accurate colors, good motion handling, and Ambilight technology that creates an immersive viewing experience.

 

Tablets, Ranked

By Chaz G. T. Patto

Saying decisively that a certain product is "the best" can really vary year by year as styles change and models get updated, become obsolete or are discontinued. But major companies also have reputations to consider.

Ranking the reputations of manufacturers is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences, specific categories, and customer experiences. The reputation of manufacturers can be influenced by factors such as quality, craftsmanship, design, durability, customer service, and value for money. While it is a difficult process to provide an all-encompassing ranking, here are several well-regarded manufacturers with a stellar reputation:

1. Samsung: Samsung is widely regarded as having the most reputable brand known for its wide range of tablets, including the Galaxy Tab series. They offer tablets in various sizes and configurations, catering to different user needs. Samsung tablets are recognized for their vibrant displays, solid performance, and features such as S Pen compatibility and DeX mode.

2. Apple: Apple is a reputable and influential brand in the tablet market. Their iPad lineup, including the iPad Pro, iPad Air, and iPad mini, has set industry standards for design, performance, and user experience. Apple's tablets are known for their high-quality displays, powerful processors, extensive app ecosystem, and seamless integration with other Apple devices.

3. Microsoft: Microsoft's Surface lineup has gained a strong reputation, particularly in the 2-in-1 tablet category. The Surface Pro and Surface Go tablets are highly regarded for their premium build quality, productivity-focused features, and seamless integration with Windows software. Microsoft tablets often appeal to professionals and creative users due to their versatility and compatibility with accessories like the Surface Pen and Type Cover.

4. Lenovo: Lenovo offers a range of tablets, including both Android-based and Windows-based devices. Their Yoga Tab and ThinkPad tablet series have gained recognition for their unique designs, long battery life, and solid performance. Lenovo tablets often provide a good balance between affordability and features.

5. Amazon: Amazon's Fire tablets have gained popularity for their affordable price points and integration with Amazon's services. While they may not have the same level of high-end features as other brands, Amazon tablets are known for their budget-friendly options, access to a vast library of digital content, and user-friendly interface.

6. Huawei: Huawei has made strides in the tablet market with its MatePad series. They offer tablets with sleek designs, vibrant displays, and solid performance. Huawei tablets often appeal to users looking for a good balance between features and value for money.

7. Google: Google's Pixel Slate and Pixel C tablets have gained a moderate reputation for their clean software experience and integration with Google's ecosystem. However, Google's presence in the tablet market has been relatively limited compared to other manufacturers.

8. Asus: Asus offers a variety of tablets, including their ZenPad and Transformer Pad series. While they may not have as high of a brand reputation as some other manufacturers, Asus tablets are appreciated for their affordability, decent performance, and features like expandable storage.

 

Vinyl Record Players Ranked

By Chaz G. T. Patto

Saying decisively that a certain product is "the best" can really vary year by year as styles change and models get updated, become obsolete or are discontinued. But major companies also have reputations to consider.

Ranking the reputations of manufacturers is subjective and can vary based on individual preferences, specific categories, and customer experiences. The reputation of manufacturers can be influenced by factors such as quality, craftsmanship, design, durability, customer service, and value for money. While it is a difficult process to provide an all-encompassing ranking, here are several well-regarded manufacturers with a stellar reputation:

1. Rega Research: Rega Research is highly regarded for its high-quality turntables known for their excellent sound reproduction and craftsmanship. Rega turntables often receive positive reviews for their precise engineering, minimalistic design, and attention to detail.

2. Pro-Ject: Pro-Ject is a well-established manufacturer of turntables that offers a wide range of models catering to different price points and needs. Pro-Ject turntables are known for their excellent value for money, build quality, and sound performance. They often receive positive feedback for their user-friendly features and wide availability.

3. Technics: Technics is known for its iconic turntables, particularly the Technics SL-1200 series. Technics turntables are recognized for their exceptional build quality, precise speed control, and accurate sound reproduction. They often receive positive reviews for their durability and reliability.

4. Audio-Technica: Audio-Technica is a reputable brand that offers a variety of turntables suitable for beginners and audiophiles alike. Audio-Technica turntables are appreciated for their affordability, solid performance, and user-friendly features. They often receive positive feedback for their ease of setup and versatility.

5. Denon: Denon produces a range of turntables that blend modern features with classic design elements. Denon turntables are recognized for their solid build quality, smooth operation, and good sound reproduction. They often receive positive reviews for their ease of use and integration with other audio systems.

6. Pioneer: Pioneer offers turntables that combine modern technology with vintage aesthetics. Pioneer turntables are known for their solid performance, durable construction, and user-friendly features. They often receive positive feedback for their affordability and ease of setup.