It is interesting that around this time of year, many people start to think about how they treat one another. It’s the holiday season and good cheer is supposed to be the norm. This is the not the case for everyone.Sometimes people can treat each other in the most cruel ways. The most severe forms of this occur in war-torn countries where people are being violent towards one another. Some of the more benign forms can occur when someone does not open a door for someone else, or one person is blatantly and sometimes intentionally rude to another. Why do people act like this?

Well…it is in our nature. If it was not in our nature – then we would not do it. The challenge is that we must all strive to rise above this nature and try to be good to one another. Being kind is something that this world desperately needs. We need to be kind to one another. Husbands need to treat their wives better. Wives need to treat their husbands better. Parents need to treat their children better. Countries need to get along.

Considering how fast time flies and the small amount of time we have on this planet – why not enjoy our time and be kind.

This is a message of kindness from Donna Magazine.

Another Lulu.com sales contest is underway! You can receive 10 per cent off all of my books and audio material by entering the code HUMBUG on checkout. This is a great time of year to buy a gift for the ones you love, and even buy a gift for yourself. Enjoy the magic of the holiday season with one of my 32 books.

You can select your books at: http://stores.lulu.com/kakonged.

TORONTO, Dec. 3 /CNW/ – As the anniversary to commemorate the Montreal Massacre draws near, Ontario nurses say the provincial government’s workplace violence legislation doesn’t go far enough to protect women.The Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO) says Bill 168 (the Occupational Health and Safety Amendment Act) will do little to stop forms of violence such as teasing, gossiping or bullying that can be just as dangerous as physical assaults. The association would have preferred a broader definition of workplace violence to include forms of harassment because statistics show violence in the workplace affects nurses, many of whom are women, disproportionately. An estimated 50 per cent of health-care workers will be physically assaulted during their professional careers, and nurses are three times more likely to experience violence than any other professional group.

“The reality for women in Ontario is that teasing, gossiping, bullying and harassment are also common forms of violence. This legislation doesn’t recognize that. Women have a right to a safe working environment that is free of any and all aggression,” says RNAO President Wendy Fucile.

Fucile says the association suggested the government adopt a wider definition such as the one incorporated in RNAO’s best practice guideline on Preventing and Managing Violence in the Workplace, which describes violence as a multi-dimensional phenomenon involving the misuse of power and includes all forms of harassment, bullying, intimidation, physical threats, assaults, robbery and other intrusive behaviours.

Another key improvement missing in the legislation is better whistleblower protection for those who report incidents or potential incidents of workplace violence or harassment. “We know nurses experience threats, intimidation, and other forms of physical violence. They put up with it because they fear losing their jobs, escalating the conflict or confrontation. Nurses deserve better. You can’t provide quality patient care if you can’t rely on a safe environment in which to practise,” says Irmajean Bajnok, Director of RNAO’s International Affairs and Best Practice Guidelines Program.

RNAO says Bill 168 is in response to recommendations made by a coroner’s jury that examined the death of Windsor nurse Lori Dupont. In 2005, she was murdered by her former boyfriend, Dr. Marc Daniel, while on shift at Hotel Dieu Hospital. RNAO Executive Director Doris Grinspun says if the government is serious about tackling workplace violence; it must redress the power imbalances that allow violence to continue. That includes replacing traditional hierarchical structures such as hospital Medical Advisory Committees (MAC) with Inter-Professional Advisory Committees (IPAC) so the views of all health professionals are represented.

“We know from the Dupont case that power differentials jeopardize both patient and workplace safety,” Grinspun says. “With the memory of Lori and her family clearly before us, we urge the McGuinty government to immediately address the shortcomings in Bill 168 through further legislative changes so that nurses and other women are afforded the protection they deserve in their places of work.”

The Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO) is the professional association representing registered nurses wherever they practise in Ontario. Since 1925, RNAO has lobbied for healthy public policy, promoted excellence in nursing practice, increased nurses’ contribution to shaping the health-care system, and influenced decisions that affect nurses and the public they serve.

For more information about RNAO and its BPG on Preventing and Managing Violence in the Workplace, visit our website at www.rnao.org. You can also check out our Facebook page at www.rnao.org/facebook or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/rnao.

For further information: To arrange an interview with a nurse, please contact: Marion Zych, Director of Communications, RNAO, Phone: 1-800-268-7199 ext. 209, Phone: (416) 408-5605, Cellular: (647) 406-5605

I am now starting to offer feedback on people’s writing from around the world. With the help of the internet and for a small fee – I will offer coaching to anyone in need of feedback on their writing. Please do contact me at: dkakonge@sympatico.ca for details.

As a teacher, I really admire anyone who goes to school. School is so important. It teaches you not only the basics about reading, writing, math and a concentrated area of study – it also teaches you a lot about yourself. It is a shame though that the cost of education often makes it difficult for some people to take the route of enlightenment.I recently heard about a woman who is an engineer and an architect and is currently on employment insurance. She is in her eighth month. She wants to switch careers to become a youth worker, however is finding it hard to come up with the money to go back to school. It is good though that she has the desire to do so, despite the fact she is not the age of the average student.

I know someone else who desperately needs to go back to school to upgrade because she does not even know how to use a computer. She keeps saying she will and it is like the Spanish expression, “manana, manana.” It is always tomorrow, tomorrow and tomorrow does not ever seem to come. I know that if she was aware of programs out there where she could upgrade her skills for free – she would do them.

In this economy, it is so important to be investing in yourself. If you already have the education, you are one of the lucky ones and I hope you are using it to your advantage. Investing in yourself will secure your future and give you more opportunities to choose from. I know my journalism and media studies degrees have been a tremendous benefit to me.

VALCARTIER GARRISON, QC, Dec. 1 /CNW Telbec/ – The media are invited to attend a leg of the Olympic Torch Relay at Valcartier Garrison.

    When:    December 3, 2009, at 6:30 am (relay will begin at 6:50 am).

    Where:   Starting from Building 516 (Sports Centre) and along Général
             T. L. Tremblay Street.Valcartier Garrison is one of 10 Canadian Forces bases to have the honour of being selected to welcome the Olympic torch.

The team of 20 Olympic torchbearers from Valcartier Garrison represents National Defence’s multidisciplinary character well. The team, which is composed of Canadian Forces members and civilians from a variety of units and occupations, will carry the Olympic flame for one kilometre.

Media members who would like to attend the Olympic Torch Relay are asked to notify 5 ASG Public Affairs personnel using the contact information below. Everyone must arrive at the Valcartier Garrison main gate no later than 6:30 am. Please be advised that latecomers will be refused access, because the main road will be closed as the Olympic torch travels through the garrison.

For further information: Captain Evelyne Lemire, 5 ASG Public Affairs Officer, (418) 844-5000, ext 5880; General information: Torchbearers and military representatives on site will grant interviews according to their availability.

Dear friends,

We want to invite you to two extremely special events in the coming weeks. Dec 3 @ 6.30 PM marks the launch of ‘Spiritual Theatre/ Drama’ at UrbanEdge. We will be hosting the screening of the first performance of the ‘Lonely people – why and what to do’. This play is produced and Directed by The Walking Monk – Bhaktimarga Swami and features artists who are all practitioners of Yoga and Meditation. Check event details and RSVP at http://www.urbanedgeyoga.com/index.php?d=current&p=current&event=miEvent1

Dec 7 @ 6.30 PM Kirtan with a Monk, conversations on the sacred art of chanting: Move away from manic Mondays – move on to a fresh and beautiful way to start your week. Join us for a soul stirring Kirtan with a visiting Monk – His Grace Vaisesika Dasa who has been practicing Kirtan Yoga for over 35 years. It is a must have kirtan(musical meditation) event of the year ! Check details and RSVP at http://urbanedgeyoga.com/index.php?d=current&p=current&event=miEvent2

Wed, Dec 2 – Story of a warrior – Negotiating the battlefield of life: Where do you think the ancient knowledge of yoga as known to modern humans was revealed? A journey through history, find more at  http://urbanedgeyoga.com/index.php?d=current&p=current&event=event1

Fri, Dec 4 – Dec 4 Uncommon sense – what is real: Wondered what reality is? Is there something out there over and beyond we see? Check details and RSVP at http://urbanedgeyoga.com/index.php?d=current&p=current&event=miEvent3

Don’t forget, we have a delicious vegan feast which will be awaiting you!

Check the month’s calendar at http://yoga.meetup.com/512/calendar/#12

Quote of the week: The soul is the substantive reality while the mind is only his perverted reflection in the mirror of limited existence. The mind is the material shadow, so to say, of the soul who is the spiritual substance.

 See you soon,

Mangal-aarti

Urban Edge Yoga

The CRTC seeks input from Canadians as it undertakes an online
consultation on the implications of implementing a compensation regime for
the value of local television signalsOTTAWA-GATINEAU, November 30, 2009 —The Canadian Radio-television and
Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) today opened an online consultation
to receive the comments of Canadians on the future of television. This
consultation is part of the public hearing that will begin on December 7,
2009, in Gatineau, Que. The government has requested that the CRTC submit
a report following the public hearing.

The Canadian broadcasting system is evolving quickly, and some regulatory
changes may prove necessary. The Commission is looking at various options,
including the possibility of negotiations between local stations and cable
and satellite companies to determine the value of signals, and the
transition of television signals from analog to digital. With this online
consultation, the CRTC is seeking the views of consumers and the industry
on the impact such developments could have on:

    * the availability of local television services, including local news,
information and public affairs programming
    * the ability to choose different types of channels and packages
    * the affordability of cable and satellite television services
    * the industry as it adapts to the new digital communications
environment, and
    * the industry’s current or future business plans.

The CRTC has already received numerous comments since the public hearing
was announced. These were submitted by fax, e-mail or through the online
form. With the online consultation, the CRTC is offering consumers a new
way to express their opinions. The CRTC will take all comments received
into account when preparing its report.

The online consultation will conclude on December 21, 2009, at midnight
(EST). You may participate by visiting the following Web address:
http://television.askingcanadians.com.
The CRTC

The CRTC is an independent public authority that regulates and supervises
broadcasting and telecommunications in Canada.

Reference documents:
News release, “The CRTC seeks consumer input on television services,”
October 2, 2009  http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/news/releases/2009/r091002.htm
News release, “CRTC to seek views on a compensation regime for the value
of local television services,” September 17, 2009  http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/news/releases/2009/r090917.htm
Broadcasting Notice of Consultation CRTC 2009-614 http://www.crtc.gc.ca/eng/archive/2009/2009-614.htm

“Let all the human rights organizations hear my voice and ask them to

save me from this inhuman environment.” Negar Azizmoradi

MONTREAL, Nov. 28 /CNW Telbec/ – According to a statement released today by the International Raelian Movement, Negar Azizmoradi, leader of the Raelian Movement in Iran, has become seriously ill with a severe lung infection while being held in Istanbul’s deportation center.Raelians worldwide are demanding her immediate release and her right to asylum in a neutral country. Protests are organized in front of Turkish Embassies in most major countries and in Canada will be held on Thursday, December 3rd,197 Wurtemburg Street, Ottawa.

“This brave woman was arrested in Turkey a few days ago after escaping from Iran, where she faced a likely death sentence for publicly declaring herself to be an atheist,” said Brigitte Boisselier, spokesperson for the International Raelian Movement. “It’s bad enough that she had to leave her family and her country because of her beliefs, but she now has a serious lung infection as well. We are asking our worldwide membership to refrain from buying any Turkish products and to protest Turkey’s policy until Negar Azizmoradi is free and safe.”

Boisselier explained that Azizmoradi’s lung condition has deteriorated because Turkish incarceration facilities reek heavily of cigarette and cigar smoke.

“These facilities are extremely unhealthy, crowded and filthy,” she said. “No one, not even a real criminal, deserves to suffer such inhumane conditions, but Negar did nothing more than honestly state her beliefs. She should be released immediately to an international human rights agency and then be granted asylum. Already many British and German citizens have offered to welcome and support her.”

Boisselier said time is of the essence.

“Every moment counts,” she said. “Action needs to be taken very, very soon, because Negar’s life is now in serious danger on two fronts rather than one. If she’s sent back to Iran, she’s certain to receive a death sentence. But if she stays where she is now, her health will continue to deteriorate. Her condition is of great concern to us.”

Abdollah Asadi, head of the International Federation of Iranian Refugees (IFIR), said Azizmoradi told him in a phone conversation that she is being held “in a contaminated ward with extremely nasty bathrooms.”

“The way Turkish police treat us is worse than what an animal would do to other animals,” the confined Raelian leader told Asadi.

In a subsequent conversation with IFIR officials on Nov. 19, Azizmoradi reported that the Turkish authorities had confiscated all of her belongings, including her laptop computer and camera.

“I kept all of my documents and proof there,” she said. “They took everything I had.”

Coughing severely and barely able to speak, Azizmoradi pleaded with the IFIR to get her message out.

“Let all the human rights organizations hear my voice and ask them to save me from this inhuman environment,” she said.

“Negar’s physical suffering and detention in such a disgusting environment because of her beliefs should affect every human conscience deeply,” Boisselier said. “Her condition is deteriorating on a daily basis and her life is in grave danger. No civilized country allows such a thing to happen, so the least the Turkish authorities can do is put things right. They need to do that now.”

For further information: or interview, contact Stella (514) 793-3126

- Big birds, cool cats and cartoon celebrities entertain at Yonge-Dundas
Square -

TORONTO, Nov. 27 /CNW/ – A mob of teeny toddlers will descend on Yonge-Dundas Square for a fun-filled weekend of kid-friendly rides, face-painting, crafts and interactive performances at the Downtown Yonge BIA’s Kidzfest – a free two-day event with guest appearances from cartoon celebrities Max & Ruby, Dora & Diego and Spongebob Squarepants on his 10th anniversary tour. On November 28th and 29th, adventurous tots will swing around the square in a colourful swing carousel, whirl around on the ladybug ride and take their ‘coverkid’ moment posing in a faux magazine shoot. Harry and His Bucket Full of Dinosaurs pack prehistoric fun into the first performance of the weekend, followed by a slew of musical guests including David Archibald and Maggie G. Fun will ‘let fly’ with Birds of Prey on Saturday, and Jungle Cat World brings a rip-roaring good time to Sunday.Kidzfest is a free event that takes place on Saturday and Sunday, November 28th and 29th as part of the Downtown Yonge BIA’s Winter Magic festivities. Further information is available at www.wintermagic.ca.

What: KIDZFEST

When: Saturday and Sunday, November 28th and 29th, 11:00am – 5:00pm

Where: Yonge-Dundas Square

Photo Op: Hundreds of kids take over Yonge-Dundas Square to enjoy
rides, crafts, live music, cartoon character meet & greets
and performances from Max & Ruby, Birds of Prey and Jungle
Cat World.

Lineup of Kidzfest Events:

Saturday, November 28th

11am – 5pm Face-painting, crafts, treats and rides
11am & 2pm Harry and His Bucket Full of Dinosaurs show, followed by meet
and greet
12pm & 3pm David Archibald’s zany musical adventure
1pm & 4pm Birds of Prey
1pm – 3pm Spongebob Squarepants meet and greet

Sunday, November 29th

11am – 5pm Face-painting, crafts, treats and rides
11am & 2pm Max & Ruby show, followed by meet and greet
12pm & 3pm Around the House with Maggie G
1pm & 4pm Jungle Cat World
1pm – 3pm Dora the Explorer & Diego meet and greet

About Downtown Yonge BIA

The Downtown Yonge Business Improvement Area (B.I.A) is an association of 2000 businesses and property owners in downtown Toronto. Founded in 2001, the mandate is to revitalize and position Downtown Yonge as Canada’s premier business, shopping and entertainment destination. For further information: www.downtownyonge.com

For further information: Helen Jamer, Julia Harper, Idea Workshop, helen@ideaworkshop.ca, julia@ideaworkshop.ca, (416) 504-3977 x27, (647) 330-4706 (cell)

CALGARY, Nov. 27 /CNW/ – Canadian Pacific (TSX/NYSE: CP) and Natural Resources Canada have partnered on an industry-leading biodiesel fuel pilot project under the National Renewable Diesel Demonstration Initiative, announced Lee Richardson, Member of Parliament for Calgary Centre on behalf of the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Natural Resources, and Fred Green, Canadian Pacific President and CEO, today. It is the first time biodiesel will be used in Canadian cold-weather rail service.

“The Government of Canada is working closely with industry partners like Canadian Pacific to support the use of renewable diesel in the Canadian fuel market,” said Mr. Richardson. “Our Government is investing over $800,000 in this important step forward to help reduce Canada’s total greenhouse gas emissions.”

The Government of Canada has announced its intent to regulate an average five percent renewable fuel content based on the national gasoline pool by 2010 as well as a requirement for an average two percent renewable content in diesel fuel and heating oil by 2011 or earlier, subject to technical feasibility. The National Renewable Diesel Demonstration Initiative provides an opportunity for real-world testing and performance evaluation in advance of regulatory action.

“Rail is already the most efficient means to move goods long-haul,” said Green. “This initiative positions CP to make a lasting impact by further reducing our network’s environmental footprint. This partnership with the Government of Canada is an opportunity to test the reliability of biodiesel in cold weather, ensuring we continue to provide safe and efficient operations for customers across North America.”

Biodiesel is a cleaner renewable alternative to traditional fuels, made from either vegetable oil or animal fats. Biodiesel reduces emissions of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide and particulate matter and also acts as a natural lubricant.

As part of the five-month test cycle, CP will operate four GE AC4400 Diesel Locomotives with FDL-16 engines in captive service between Calgary and Edmonton. General Electric and Calgary-based fuel supplier 4Refuels are cooperating with CP during this testing phase, which began in early November and will run through the end of March.

Canadian Pacific will undertake routine detailed mechanical examinations of the locomotives in the pilot project. The information gathered will be used to determine if a biodiesel mixture of five percent (B5) has any significant adverse effects on a locomotive or its associated systems in cold-climate operation. Impact to reliability, potential changes to the overhaul or maintenance work scope and reviews of specific components on the locomotives will also be monitored.

About the National Renewable Diesel Demonstration Initiative:

The National Renewable Diesel Demonstration Initiative (NRDDI) supports projects that demonstrate how renewable diesel fuel will perform under Canadian conditions. This research is in support of the Government’s intention to regulate renewable fuel content, specifically the proposed requirement for an average of two percent renewable fuel content in diesel fuel and heating oil by 2011 or earlier. This requirement is however conditional upon the technical feasibility of biodiesel use being demonstrated under a range of Canadian conditions. This is a part of the Government of Canada’s Renewable Fuels Strategy.

About Canadian Pacific:

Canadian Pacific, through the ingenuity of its employees located across Canada and in the United States, remains committed to being the safest, most fluid railway in North America. Our people are the key to delivering innovative transportation solutions to our customers and to ensuring the safe operation of our trains through the more than 1,100 communities where we operate. Come and visit us at www.cpr.ca to see how we can put our ingenuity to work for you. Canadian Pacific is proud to be the official rail freight services provider for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Award-Winning International News Channel Breaks Into Canadian Market

OTTAWA, Nov. 26 /CNW/ – Al Jazeera English is pleased to announce that the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has included the award-winning international news and current affairs channel on its digital Lists of Eligible Satellite Services. This decision will allow Canadian cable and satellite distributors to include AJE among their channel offerings.

AJE has received indications from several of Canada’s major distributors that they want to include Al Jazeera English in their lineup, and is hopeful they will make an early announcement of a launch date.

The announcement from the CRTC follows a formal application process and a 30-day consultation notice period during which Canadians were allowed to submit letters voicing their opinions of AJE. The submission process demonstrated an overwhelming demand for the channel with 98% of the submissions, approximately 2,800 letters and emails, being positive.

Tony Burman, the Managing Director of AJE, is the former Editor in Chief of CBC News. Commenting on the CRTC decision Burman said, “We are very excited that Canadians will soon have the same opportunities as people in more than 180 million households in more than 100 countries. For over three years, Al Jazeera English has been setting new standards in reporting by providing a platform for the under-represented corners of the world. Over the last several months I have had the opportunity to travel throughout Canada and hear firsthand the great demand for our groundbreaking news and current affairs programming. We look forward to bringing AJE’s award-winning coverage to the Canadian people.”

Additionally, AJE has pledged to open a bureau in Canada in the near future, signifying the channel’s commitment to presenting Canadian news and perspective to a global audience. This will make AJE the only international news channel with a bureau in Canada.

Since launching in 2006, AJE has become a world leader in the coverage of Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Europe and the Americas. With broadcast centres strategically located in Kuala Lumpur, Doha, London and Washington, DC, and nearly 70 news bureaus around the world, the channel’s aim is to provide independent and impartial news for a global audience.

AJE has more than 1000 employees worldwide, representing more than 50 nationalities – including many from Canada – making AJE’s newsrooms the most diverse in the world.

In its short time on air, Al Jazeera English has been recognized for its distinguished reporting and programming. In 2008 and 2009, AJE received nominations for international Emmy awards in both the News and Current Affairs categories, and in 2009 the channel received a nomination in the documentary category. Additionally, AJE has received awards from the Monte-Carlo TV Festival, the Royal Television Society, Amnesty International and YouTube.

ECG (Ethnic Channels Group) acted as the channel’s sponsor, presenting the application to the CRTC in February 2009, a legal requirement for non-Canadian channels to be distributed in Canada. ECG is a Canadian multi-ethnic broadcaster, which currently offers 12 television channels to Canadian cable and satellite systems. This was the first application to the CRTC for carriage of Al Jazeera English.

About Al Jazeera English

Al Jazeera English is the first English language world news channel to be headquartered in the Middle East. Launched in November 2006, Al Jazeera English is setting the global news agenda and acts as a bridge between cultures. With unique access as the channel of reference for Middle East events, and broadcast centres strategically placed around the world in Doha, Kuala Lumpur, London and Washington DC, Al Jazeera English is balancing the information flow from South to North, providing independent and impartial news for a global audience, giving voice to different perspectives from under-reported regions around the world.

Al Jazeera started out over thirteen years ago as the first independent Arabic news channel in the world dedicated to providing comprehensive television news and live debate for the Arab world. Al Jazeera was formally named the Al Jazeera Network in March 2006, transforming its operation into an international media corporation – the Al Jazeera Network now consists of the flagship Al Jazeera Arabic channel, Al Jazeera English, Al Jazeera Documentary, Al Jazeera Sport, Al Jazeera.net (the English and Arabic web sites), the Al Jazeera Media Training and Development Center, the Al Jazeera Center for Studies, Al Jazeera Mubasher (Live), and Al Jazeera Mobile. Visit www.aljazeera.net/english for more details.

About ECG

Ethnic Channels Group Limited (“ECG”) is a privately held Canadian company licensed by the Canadian Radio Television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) to operate 52 category 2 digital specialty services to the Canadian market place. ECGL is currently operating 12 Category 2 (digital specialty services) channels that deliver 24 hours 7 days a week leading programming from the countries of origin, serving the following communities: Arabic, Filipino, German, Greek, Iranian, Israeli, Russian, and Vietnamese. ECGL also provides broadcasting facilities to third parties from its NCC – Network Control Center. The Company has built its broadcast infrastructure using the newest technology with unique network architecture as its backbone. Delivering services via satellite and/or fiber ECGL is a full service television production and distribution centre fully equipped with master control, edit facilities and production studio. For more information please visit www.ethnicchannels.com

FEATURE ARTICLE

Five Ways To Shine As A Professional Writer

By Dana Blozis

With the growth of social media and marketing techniques like
online article marketing, it seems that everyone is a writer of one
sort or another. In fact, I've read a handful of articles that
assure the reading public that anyone can write. While this may be
technically true, those of us who write for a living know that it
isn't as easy as it sounds. There is much more to the craft than
meets the eye.
With this new realm of competition at our doorstep, I've created a
list of ways that can set you apart from those who are merely
dabbling in writing or writing simply for marketing's sake.

1) Develop a website. If you don't already have one, confirm your
legitimacy as a writer or journalist by creating your own website.
It can be as simple as one page which tells who you are, what types
of writing you specialize in and how people can contact you. At the
other end of the spectrum, it can be a multi-page site that
contains bio information, a professional profile or résumé and
clips of your work. Regardless of your site's level of complexity,
your site will confirm that you are a professional writer with a
portfolio and published clips.

2) Create a professional profile. Unless you graduated from
j-school and have been a professional writer since your career
began, I've found that a traditional resume doesn't cut it.
Instead, I developed a two-page professional profile. It looks
similar to my résumé, but it only briefly summarizes my irrelevant
career prior to becoming a freelancer over four years ago. It
contains sections like relevant skills (writing, editing,
marketing); a sample of my client list; my relevant education; and
a list of publications and websites for whom I've written. I have
this document posted on my website so, when replying to a freelance
posting or ad, I can refer the editor or prospective client to my
profile without sending an attachment (hint: unless they know you,
they won't open an attachment anyway.).

3) Prepare an online portfolio. Whether you include this
information on your website or use one provided by an organization
like Media Bistro, you'll need an online portfolio of your
published work. It can be organized any number of ways, depending
on what types of clips you have. On my site, portfolio samples are
broken down by type (articles, marketing materials, and web copy).
You could also break them down by publication or media type
(broadcast, print, web, newspaper, magazine, etc.) Clips can take
virtually any format: you can post them directly to a web page, add
a *.pdf or *.doc/*.docx attachment, link to a URL, etc. As long as
your portfolio is well organized and the clips are relatively
current, site visitors (a.k.a. prospective clients) will be able to
find what they're looking for.

4) Proof and edit your own work. Have you ever received an e-mail
or letter from a colleague or prospective client riddled with
mistakes? Did it make you cringe? This is a common pet peeve of
professional writers and editors, including me. I always tell
(read: nag) business professionals from all industries but
particularly writers and editors to make sure they proof and edit
their own work prior to submission to an editor or client. Of
course, the materials are likely to be proofread and copyedited by
someone else, too, but if you want repeat business or additional
assignments, your work must be top notch and error-free. Because so
many "article marketers" are focused on selling their products and
services and NOT on punctuation and spelling, your writing will be
superior.

5) Hone your craft. Whether you are a self-taught or
college-educated writer, continue to expand your talent by
investing in quality resources (a good dictionary and thesaurus;
Chicago Manual of Style; Writer's Market; The Copyeditor's
Handbook, etc.); taking continuing education classes; and trying
out different genres (business writing, creative writing, fiction,
horror, romance, etc.). You'll not only fine-tune your skills, but
you'll have a better sense of where your voice best fits in the
writing world.

If you follow these five tips, you will stand out as a professional
writer--not as a fly-by-night blogger, forum poster or article
marketer--and you will gain confidence in your ability to market
yourself and your writing and editing services. Happy writing!

Copyright (c) 2007 Dana Blozis

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dana Blozis of Virtually Yourz is a freelance writer, editor and
marketing professional based in the Seattle area. In addition to
writing for publication, she writes for small businesses and
nonprofits. For more information, visit Virtually Yourz.
http://www.virtuallyyourz.com

                                                 ID:as091125

Living in Toronto is difficult without a car. With all of this H1N1 flu virus talk going around, you cannot even cough on a bus without someone thinking you have been infected. Plus with the way the TTC has been running over a long period of time now, it seems ridiculous that now TTC wants to hike up the fees to $3 CDN, from $2.75.

I have been a long time TTC rider. It was what got me to and from school for a great part of my high school years, until I finally received my coveted license. I only had my beautiful car for two years, then I learned about the Ottawa Transit system that went through its own set of problems last year. For the majority of my return to life to Toronto since 2001 after living in Montreal – I have been either biking, however mostly taking the TTC. I take the TTC great distances to get to work and rely on it to get me there in comfort, convenience and in a timely fashion.

When it comes to the comfort part, often times, the TTC fails miserably. Often it is littered with free newspapers, Tim Hortons coffee cups and muck and general debris on the ground. In terms of convenience – the TTC stopped being the better way for quite some time now. Even a complete idiot could explain to me that with a good insurance plan and an inexpensive car which you can buy at this time of year – it is actually cheaper to own a car in some cases, than to take the TTC. As for in a timely fashion, all I need to do is look back to almost a week ago when the subway service shut down between Eglinton and Bloor and think about the hours it took some very good people to make it home. Not to mention all the money it took some of these very good people to make it home.

It seems as though the TTC’s only saving grace is the fact that it’s good to the environment. With that said, I guess I will be buying my bus pass again for December.

Hello everyone in Toronto!

Please check out this site and scroll to the bottom for workshops I will be offering starting on February 21st and happening once a month. Here is the link: http://www.aangen.com/workshops.asp. Join in the fun!

TORONTO, Ontario – November 17, 2009 – H1N1 is here and causing havoc at home and in the office. Ensuring employees can remain productive by working from home is a critical piece of any business continuity plan. Health Canada suggests that as many as 35 per cent of Canadians could become ill during the H1N1 pandemic. They recommend that if you feel at all sick or are infectious (with H1N1 this can be up to ten days after the onset of symptoms) you should stay home. Add to this time needed to tend to children who are sent home due to illness or school closures, and employees feeling well enough to work could be out of the office for days or weeks leaving offices understaffed and productivity down.

For companies that understand the benefits of effective telework, some of which include a 22% increase in productivity, a 60% decrease in absenteeism and 20% decrease in employee turnover1, it is a logical solution to facilitate work from home. However, even with the approval to telework, many employees feel that they simply “can’t” work from home, often from fear of distraction or a lack of self-discipline. Clare Kumar, Chief Organizer at Streamlife, an organizing company says, “Anyone can work from home if attention is paid to creating a healthy home office work environment with clear space and time boundaries, and establishing effective work habits.”

Streamlife provides a custom service for people wishing to set up or adjust a home office for maximum comfort and productivity. Taking a comprehensive look at the nature of the work, the physical space, office furniture and storage solutions, recommendations are made to optimize the environment for work at home.

The environment, however, is only half the challenge. It is also critical to develop habits specific to working from home to ensure success, such as forced breaks, transitions between personal and work time, and creating opportunities for social interaction.

For those that are already set up to work successfully from home, there will be less of an impact on productivity during this pandemic. “Because I am well-organized to work virtually, I was able to get my high priority work done even when my daughter was home with the flu. Knowing that I can manage my work and be there for my family gives me huge piece of mind.” says Maria Prairie of VereQuest Inc., a Toronto-based customer experience company.

Encouraging and facilitating more people to work from home safely and effectively will go a long way to maintaining Canada’s productivity. As Bob Fortier, President of The Canadian Telework Association suggests, “The teleworker needs a suitable home office. It makes little sense to telework if the employee’s home workplace is inappropriate.” Companies concerned about sustaining productivity through the pandemic and other work interruptions should assist employees in setting up for effective telework as part of their business continuity plan.

1 Source: International Telework Association and Council (now WorldatWork)

About Streamlife

Streamlife, an organizing company, helps people get organized at work and at home to be more productive and have greater peace of mind. Working one-on-one with clients including corporate and government employees, entrepreneurs and home owners, Streamlife develops customized solutions to help them better manage space, time and information. For more information, visit www.streamlife.ca.

About Clare Kumar

Professional Organizer and consultant Clare Kumar founded Streamlife in 2004 to help people reduce stress and lead more rewarding lives. With over 15 years experience in the corporate world, both in the office and teleworking, Clare understands the needs of today’s workplace. She inspires employees and entrepreneurs alike to make choices in support of personal and professional goals.

Clare has been quoted in national newspapers and magazines and has appeared on CBC Radio, Get Connected (Business News Network), and the Steven and Chris Show. Clare is a proud member of the Canadian Telework Association and an affiliate member of the Association of Canadian Ergonomists. She recently served as Director of Marketing for Professional Organizers in Canada.

E REECE

MAKE WAY

(PRODUCED BY THE BEAT VENTRILOUISTS)

If you are not redirected to the files page, click on or cut and paste this URL into your browser:http://fblz.in/tB9G

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PREVIOUS E REECE RELEASES

Elevated Mental Recordings

E REECE & Core Elements

WHAT YOU NEED

(Produced by Brian Boland)

ALBUM: http://www.sendspace.com/pro/dl/ze9zuz

INST: http://www.sendspace.com/pro/dl/dty7by

VIDEO LINK:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jS72m24Zr7c

Taken from the album

Also Includes:

How We Do

http://www.sendspace.com/pro/dl/r1xp8a

Available on iTunes & CDBaby.com

REAL MUSIC 4 REAL PEOPLE. “It might blow up, but it won’t go pop!”

www.myspace.com/ereecemusic

www.vimeo.com/ereece

www.ereecelive.com

“Organic Hip Hop is my Medicine”

E Reece hails from the east coast (Maryland to be exact) & presently resides in LA, where he’s been for just over seven years now, via NYC (Brooklyn) where he lived two years.

A music lover all his life, E Reece started studying jazz sax at age 12, his early influences included Charlie Parker, Gerry Mulligan, Special Ed, RUN DMC, A Tribe Called Quest, De La Soul, Prince, Michael Jackson, Frankie Beverly & Maze, Bill Withers, Robert Nesta Marley and Peter Tosh, just to name a few of the myriad. His dream was always to be a full time working artist and to this end E Reece has kept up a very hectic schedule over the last couple years, having been featured on the Lyricst Lounge mixtape, The Legendary Lyricist Lounge International Mixtape Series Vol. 1, releasing two EPs Far Eye Vision and Next Up plus his debut album A New Breed [EMH Recordings, 2007]. Now finally in 2009, he releases his recent highly acclaimed sophomore full length L.I.S.n 2 This Live.In.Studio [Elevated Mental Recordings, with his band Core Elements which includes the single “How We Do”. Add to this an impressive list of licensed tracks to film, tv shows, video games and compilation projects, E Reece is all about ‘Doing It’.

In between music gigs he also acts & models, appearing in many fashion shows, print ads, a few commercials, a book cover or two, an indie movie ‘Claims’, and you may have seen him in Floetry video Say Yes! With such a resume, music that transcends all cultures, and a love for rhyming that’s deeply rooted in the essence of hip hop, it’s going to be hard to stop E Reece’s star from rising!

***Currently supported and/or sponsored by Caleb Clothing Co., Live Mechanics, Scifen, Orisue, iRockWell Clothing & Estate***

HOW WE DO !

VIDEO LINK: www.vimeo.com/2812222

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Here is another great link to listen to a great podcast – featuring Donna Kakonge discussing journalism: http://www.bloggingauthors.com/