Clearly I haven't kept my resolution pertaining to the close editing of blog posts. I'll complete my response to Derek here:

As much as I grumble about the ubiquity of such appalling untalented and bland celebrities like Ashlee Simpson, or the lack of any decent radio station in this city, at least I have access to resources like the internet and live in a city that offers a variety of cultural options. With very little ease or expense, I can usually find interesting music, books or films. I'm not sure if this was possible even 10 years ago.