Women With Vision ® Summer, 2015 by Women With Vision

Women with

WE ARE CANADIAN

VISION! ™

Showcasing Business & Lifestyle in South Georgian Bay

CREATE AN

Image THAT SELLS

Summer Issue 2015

Summer Issue

Business, Fashion, Food, and more

Cheryl Hickey

Karen Brunger

My Fair Lady

launches ‘Ours’

Fashion Fix... FROM SABOTAGE TO SAVVY

Women with...

VISION!

™

BECOME A MEMBER...

Women with Vision was founded in 1998 to offer business women a networking venue in which they can provide support for one another and develop new business connections. Through this dynamic networking opportunity attendees will receive motivation, inspiration, advice and mutual support to help them take their business & lives in general to the highest possible level. Guests & New Members are always welcome.

Meetings:

Districts: Become a District Coordinator in your community... Call our head office today for an application.

• $5 Discount on networking dinners and Vision Mentoring Nights • 10% Discount on long term advertising • Annual Membership Card

Cost: Each district has its own fee structure starting at $35 per person. Reserved seating is a MUST! Contact the District Coordinator no later than 48 hours prior to the Women with Vision! Networking Breakfast/ Luncheon/ Dinner at the location of your choice. ™

Membership:

• Franchise opportunities • ONE 1 hour phone coaching session with Certified Life & Business Consultant Lorraine Leslie • Women with Vision! Health Benefit Packages - WWVM renewal annually New Regions Opening all the time…

NETWORKING DINNERS... 3 hours of high energy networking with a keynote speaker

Annual Fee: $90.00 + HST $11.70 = $101.70 (tax receipt provided)

To become a District Coordinator:

VISION MENTORING NIGHTS... A unique networking and mentoring event for women of all career backgrounds

Members Benefits: • Direct mailing of Women with Vision Magazine to home or work

Phone: 1-866-306-6021 womenwithvision@rogers.com www.womenwithvision.ca

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Summer

2015

Lifestyle & Beauty

On the Cover...

Karen Brunger

20 26 28 30

Regular Features 6 62 77 78

Editor’s Desk ~ Imagine Your Own Image By Lorraine Leslie Vision Wordsearch By Lorraine Leslie Life Numbers By Paola Gucciardi Last Word By Lorraine Leslie

Business, Finance & Communication 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

Create An Image That Sells By Susan Baka Projecting The Right Image For Your Business By Janette Burke Snow Bird “Borderphobia” By Rick Ziemski Your Signature, Your Brand By Mary Ann Matthews The Reality of Image By Day Merrill Tribute To Donna Messer By Lorraine Leslie How To Recycle Your Floppy Discs By Sophia Bennett The Organized Image By Karen Sencich

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38 39

The Inner Garden By Janet Kurasz

Mobile Dignity For Seniors Laura Hodgkiss

Arts & Entertainment

Cheryl Hickey: Making A Difference Lorraine Leslie

What’s Your Image Jessy Morrison Mirroring Your Image By Marilyn Wetston From Sabotage to Savvy By Karen Brunger

Georgian Gourmet 36

Women with

Your Home’s Image By Monika Gibson

Intertrigo: A Fancy Name for a Common Rash By Lesley Paul

BBQ Bison Egg’s Benedict

Green & Healthy Living Festival By Lorraine Leslie

Stranding & Standing Out In The Crowd By Dean Hollin Are You Beautiful? By Linda Thorn

Motivational & Inspirational 64

Walk On The Wild Side By Susanne Mikler

Destinations

Talbot Home By Lorraine Leslie

™

To advertise call:

1-866-306-6021 or e-mail: womenwithvision@rogers.com www.womenwithvision.ca

Subscribe below or online at www.womenwithvision.ca

Women with

VISION!

™

Wo m e n w i t h Vi s i o n ! ™ m a g a z i n e i s p u b l i s h e d b y Wo m e n w i t h Vi s i o n I n c . Founder/Publisher, C.E.O. Lorraine Leslie Sales/Marketing: Lorraine Leslie Feature Writers: Susan Baka, Karen Brunger, Janette Burke, Monika Gibson, Paola Gucciardi, Laura Hodgkiss, Dean Hollin, Deborah Johnson, Janet Kurasz, Lorraine Leslie, Susanne Mikler, Jessy Morrison, Karen Sencich, Jane Tilley, Linda Thorn, Marilyn Wetston, Rick Ziemski, Guest submission - Sophia Bennett (Reprint) Tribute of Donna Messer 2000 by Lorraine Leslie

o YES

Ad Design/Special Feature Design: Lorraine Leslie/L’original Productions-Women with Vision Inc. Cover Photography: David Leyes, courtesy of Karen Brunger Editor/Publisher : Lorraine Leslie

The Image Of Your Soul By Deborah Johnson

Home, Garden & Design

VISION!

Subscribe Today!

Design/Layout: Candice Lewis |www.candicelewis.ca

Karen Brunger My Fair Lady By Lorraine Leslie

Egg’s Benedict Casserole

Summer

In The Footsteps Of The Romans By Jane Tilley Road Trip with British Flair By Lorraine Leslie

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Feature Photography: courtesy of Karen Brunger Destination & Gourmet Features: Lorraine Leslie/L’original ProductionsWomen with Vision Inc. Proof Readers: Cindy Bailey, Wendy Senten, Lorraine Leslie

Women with Vision!™ magazine aims to provide editorials that educate, motivate and inspire people of all ages and from all walks of life, and to promote success in business and daily living.

Mailing Address: 156 Brophy’s Lane Blue Mountains ON L9Y 0K3 Bu s : 1- 8 6 6 - 3 06 - 6 0 21 F ax : ( 7 0 5) 4 4 5 - 7 1 53 Email: womenwithvision@rogers.com www.womenwithvision.ca Unsolicited manuscripts are welcome. Copyright 2015 Women with Vision! Inc. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or in part, without the written permission of the publisher. The views, opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of this publication and/or publisher who hereby disclaims any liability whatsoever arising from the advice, information or offers presented in articles or advertisements herein. Women with Vision! welcomes submissions, but accepts no responsibility for unsolicited materials. All manuscripts, illustrations and photographs submitted must be accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope if they are to be returned or acknowledged. Readers who require legal, accounting or other expert advice should obtain the services of a qualified professional.Women with Vision! is a Member of the Canadian Copyright Association.

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BUSINESS, FINANCE COMMUNICATION

Publisher’s note

Imagine Your Own Image ...a description of yourself or how you look to others

As each blade of grass eagerly pushes its way towards the sun’s warmth I imagined a perfectly manicured lawn to showcase my daisies, irises and tall grasses gently blowing in the soft summer breeze. The fragrant apple blossom petals are now developing like the skin of a precious newborn. Soon they’ll become a delicious fibre-filled fruit that keeps the doctor away. The gentle spring rains have washed away the leftover autumn leaves, while forceful winds have swirled at such a strength causing tornadoes and floods. I revel in the fact that I can use my five senses to see, hear, touch, smell and taste every moment in one form or another. In this issue of Women with Vision magazine our writers have focused their expertise and attention to bring you insightful articles to ignite your networking and social media skills. We’ll also invite you to take your health to the next level, BBQ some tantalizing bison, or envision some new home renovations.

Our feature article is all about changing your personal image. You’ll find yourself reminiscing on your own childhood and the transformation you’ve experienced. Read how Karen Brunger emerged from a small hometown girl into an international trainer and celebrity. When someone is brave enough to change his or her self, a whole new world opens up for them. Along with the changes come challenges that must be faced. Think of your own personal image of when you were a child and how it’s transformed into the person you are today. Did you have a vision of who you wanted to be (your career path?) or did you think about it at all? We all have the choice to push forward and enjoy the warm sun on our face; savor the fruit of our successes while creating our own image. Mother Nature’s gift is to live your life – not the one someone else wants your to live... BE YOURSELF!

Lorraine Leslie Founder/Publisher

The feature people about whom I write, have traveled a long, winding road to success – each one on their own journey; a journey that sometimes hasn't been smooth. These people open their hearts to inspire and motivate others, of all ages, to follow their dreams and passions, creating their ultimate VISION!™

www.womenwithvision.ca

…connecting through educational & networking updates

Over the last few months as I’ve watched Mother Nature’s power unfold slowly before my eyes I’ve become more aware of her image - beautiful, destructive, magical and inspiring.

COMMUNICATION

vid

ril le

Dr ea

m st im e. co m

BUSINESS, FINANCE

Create an image that sells: yes you can

By Janette Burke

Creating a professional visual image for your business is KEY to your success. Your image as seen on your business cards, marketing materials, packaging and website is the first and sometimes only chance you have to introduce your company to potential customers and close a sale.

Elements of a company’s marketing image:

language and tone that best reflects your image. Cute, upbeat wording that uses lots of !!! may not suit a financial advisor or auto parts wholesaler.

• Publish an E-newsletter: done well, this is an

• Prepare a succinct, 25-word description of what you do and how you do it: think of it as

• Invest in a professional photograph of yourself:

and expensive, but be sure to work with web experts who understand business and know how to make the content and graphics convey a professional image of you and your company.

in the work I do, I often interview businesswomen and am surprised at how seldom they have professional shots. Remember that the image you supply is the image you project. How should you look to best represent your image? If you sell casual clothing, then wear it. Keep your power suit for meeting with investors. Consider doing the photo shoot somewhere that reflects your brand. If you have a store or restaurant then location is obvious, but if you work in an office environment, it can be a bit tougher. Think about the end user or end result your product or service delivers. If you provide environmental solutions, for instance, an outdoor backdrop might be best.

audience uses it. If they do, then determine how social media marketing will help you achieve your objectives and make sure that whoever is providing content a) has been allocated enough time to do it well and b) understands the

A meaningful emotional connection with your audience will help your business thrive. Remember to convey your company’s uniqueness and deliver your message consistently and you will have succeeded in creating a powerful brand. n Susan Baka, President Bay Communications & Marketing Inc. sbaka@baycomm.ca www.baycomm.ca

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Flair – Bold - High-Tech, are three basic design categories. Take this quiz to determine yours... CHECK ONE

"elevator speak" – how you would quickly and effectively tell this to a stranger during a short elevator ride. Practise until it sounds natural and comfortable. You will be surprised how often this exercise will prove useful and how well it conveys your brand.

• Have a powerful, smart website: it needn't be large

• Should you jump on the social media bandwagon?: yes, absolutely, but only if your target

Your image should reflect your company’s personality (or brand) - which, to some extent, is your personality as the owner. It should also reflect your industry, your customer’s expectations and the defining attributes of your products or services.

affordable, fast, easy-to-manage and measurable marketing tool that delivers results and reinforces your brand. Elements of a company’s “face.” And yes, that means you, the owner.

How do you want your customers to view your biz? ___ a) Progressive ___ b) Reliable ___ c) Friendly and/or approachable With your products or services, you plan to... ___ a) Charge more than the competition ___ b) Charge less than the competition ___ c) Charge a similar price but add value in another way (e.g., better service) Why did you start your own business? ___ a) I know the industry like the back of my hand ___ b) I saw a market opportunity and I went for it ___ c) I love what I’m doing and I’m good at it

Photo: Yanka Van der Kolk

It is possible to develop and leverage a brand cost-effectively. First, understand what you want your image to convey…then convey it. I’m not referring to a logo. Image is so much more: it is the whole character of your business that is relayed through every communication – from your stationery and e-mails to phone calls, ads and online presence. An effective brand tells the world who you are, what you do, and how you do it – your value proposition.

COMMUNICATION

Projecting the Right Image for Your Business

By Susan Baka

One of the most powerful sales tools is the intangible emotional response your company brings to mind. In other words your brand. You may have a great product or service, but if it doesn’t resonate with customers the way others do, then you will lose the sale to the competition.

Scoring... 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

a) 5 points; a) 5 points; a) 3 points; a) 1 point; a) 3 points;

b) 3 points; b) 3 points; b) 5 points; b) 3 points; b) 1 point;

c) 1 point c) 1 point c) 1 point c) 5 points c) 5 points

Scored 5-11: FLAIR: You project creativity, flexibility and friendliness with promotional materials that are creative and unique, featuring rounded fonts, curvy lines, warm photography or illustration. Scored 12-19: BOLD: You project experience, strength, and stability with conservative toned and designed promotional materials featuring straightforward fonts like Helvetica and Times New Roman, lots of white space, and four-color photography. Scored 20-25: HIGH-TECH: You project innovation; and technological expertise with energetic and exciting promotional materials featuring italicized fonts, bold graphics, and dynamic photography. Some companies display ‘Bold’ and ‘High-Tech’ qualities. Go with more of one category’s qualities, as you can't be all things to all people or appear established (implying slow to change) and progressive (implying fast moving) at the same time. n Janette Burke Marketing/PR Coach, Consultant and Columnist www.janetteburke.com

What group of words best describes you? ___ a) Friendly, open-minded, stylish ___ b) Analytical, reliable, organized ___ c) Progressive, spontaneous, risk-taker Your customers... ___ a) are risk-averse and/or fiscally conservative ___ b) need something unique or creative ___ c) want the newest technology

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BUSINESS, FINANCE

COMMUNICATION

Snow Bird “Borderphobia” By Rick Ziemski

“The cool thing about being famous is traveling. I have always wanted to travel across seas, like to Canada and stuff.” ~ Britney Spears Ever wonder what goes on in an American’s brain when asked for an image of Canada? To those of us living up here in the tundra of “The True North Strong and Free” the response often seems well-meaning but lacking in understanding. It can spark a really good giggle though. Just ask any Rick Mercer fan. There is, however, one topic that is not so funny, especially to Canadian retirees spending time as “Snowbirds” in the US. That topic is the set of rules related to tax residency and the amount of time allowed in the US. To complicate matters, changes to the rules effective June 30, 2014 now allow both Canada and the US to calculate exactly the number of days you are within the borders, allowing for easier rule enforcement. This means that the former self-reporting of days and residence status is over. You now definitely need to keep accurate record of days inside the US and support your Canadian residency status with adequate documentation. Exposure for overstaying your welcome and being deemed a US tax resident comprise numerous potentially nasty risks:

• Loss of provincial health care • Liability for income tax in the US • Liability for estate tax in the US • Liability for capital gains tax in Canada on deemed disposition of Canadian assets

Based on this method, the average annual days allowed is 120 days. Most “Snowbirds” fall into this category and in order to be exempt from tax filing in the US they need to file annually with the IRS, “Form 8840”; proof of a “Closer Connection to a Foreign Country”. With the exact days calculated, US border authorities are more likely to challenge your status at border crossings. It is advisable to travel with a copy of the Form 8840 as well as copies of other documents that support your closer connection to Canada. It is important to note that every short hop across the border counts as a day in the US for purposes of residency threshold calculations. On the flip side recent experience indicates instances where US Border has denied short trips back to Canada as time outside US. On a non-tax note, US Immigration also has a deep interest in time spent by Canadians inside the US. Their powers can result in the most draconian treatment for any of us found to be “unlawfully present” in the US; 3 year travel ban for unlawful presence between 180 and 365 days and a 10 year ban for days above 365. With a ski home in Western NY, I too live with “borderphobia”. So I’ve:

• Ban on travel to US

1. Prepared a “Time in States” worksheet on my

The bad news about calculating the allowed days is that there is no single, logical or consistently applied formula. For purposes of Ontario healthcare you are allowed to be out of country for 212 days. For tax purposes, by Canada-US Tax Treaty, the allowed time for a Canadian inside the US is 182 days in any twelve month period. However, the IRS first uses a residency threshold test called the “Substantial Presence Test” to determine if you are potentially a US resident for tax filing purposes. You are considered a US tax resident and subject to tax filing if you’ve spent 31 days in the US in the current year and the following three year rolling average exceeds 182 days inside the US:

2. Filed the “Closer Connection Exemption Statement”

• 100 percent of days in the current year; plus • 1/3 of days in the previous year; plus • 1/6 of days in the second previous year.

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smartphone.

using Form IRS 8840.

3. Placed copies of Form 8840 and other support

documents in my car. 4. Reduced the short trips and other holidays to US to keep days number down. 5. Aborted any expansion plans for my ski home, just in case. And, FYI......still no letter of thanks from any US agency for that $20,000 US that finds its way annually from my bank into the US economy. n W. R. Ziemski, CPA, CA Management Consultant rickziemski@cogeco.ca www.linkedin.com/in/rickziemski

COMMUNICATION

IMAGE. IMAGINE THAT! By Mary Ann Matthews What do you see when you look in the mirror? Are you pleased with your image? Do you need to change it? There are lots of physical things we can do to change our physical image - weight loss, botox, plastic surgery, hair dye, etc. Let’s put the physical image aside for a moment. What image are you unwittingly projecting to others? Many of us appear to others as being a perfectionist. Look at the graphic below - the loops in the stem of the ‘t’s. That’s someone who is sensitive to criticism about the jobs and tasks that they do. It doesn’t necessarily mean business-related tasks. It could be as simple as baking a cake.

is an example of being self-conscious, feeling inferior to others. The t-bar which crosses the stem of the ‘t’ is up fairly high, yet it is still attached to the stem. This is an example of someone who has confidence in their ability to achieve their goals. It is still attached to the stem, which means that her goals are realistic; she is not a day dreamer. Self-confident people have faith in their competence. They can move confidently toward their goals because they are not hampered by a fear of failure. Look in the mirror. What do you see?

What really matters is... how you see yourself… The sensitive person is vulnerable to criticism and will try very hard to do that task to the best of her ability. All the sensitive person wants to do is avoid criticism. If her work is on time, flawless, etc., there is nothing left to criticize and she gets to protect that vulnerable little person inside.

n Mary Ann Matthews, CGA Certified Graphoanalyst Certified Cursive Writing Coach maryann@handwriting.ca www.handwriting.ca

And here comes that interesting word…PERCEPTION... and perception is everything, isn’t it? It is how others see us. It’s not necessarily who we really are. THEY think that this sensitive soul is a perfectionist! She doesn’t see herself that way at all. All the writer wants to do is avoid criticism of her work. So she will try very hard to achieve that. Back to the graphic above. Notice how the second hump on the ‘m’ is much higher than the first? This

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Tribute to Donna Messer...

COMMUNICATION

The Reality of

Image

By Day Merrill

If you had accused Donna Messer, former Business, Finance & Communication columnist of being a “social butterfly,” she would say, “guilty as charged.” Donna, the “Queen of Networking,” was extraordinarily social, connected to hundreds, if not thousands of people and was extraordinarily generous in sharing those connections. She also loved butterflies, using the life cycle of the butterfly as a metaphor for transformation for her article in the Winter issue of Women With Vision Magazine. The article was timely and poignant; after a long and silent struggle with cancer, Donna passed away on April 3rd, 2015 ‒ Good Friday and coincidently her birthday. While Donna valued communication very highly, she made the personal choice to conceal her terminal condition. In an age where all aspects of our lives are shared across multiple media platforms, this seemed a puzzling choice to many. Perhaps, unlike the oblivious caterpillar, Donna knew her ultimate transformation was ahead, and chose to project an image of well-being right up to the end. How we present ourselves ‒ the image we choose to project ‒ is complicated, especially if we value authenticity. This discrepancy between what we portray vs. who we are, has given “image” a bad rep. But image is rooted in imagination, not falsehood. When we consciously construct a personal/professional brand out of what we can imagine, we are tapping into an imagined future. That’s what having a vision for our life or business is all about.

A client of mine, who was a doctor, had to “re-imagine” herself to make a career change out of medicine. Many people wrestle with what to say about themselves in the midst of a career transition. The physician, ready to move out of clinical practice had to unpack what she really loved doing to reframe and eventually redefine herself as a nonprofit marketing professional, not a doctor. Her new resume reflects her accomplishments in light of where she’s headed and provides a pathway to a newly imagined future. The awakening self and the new image that follows is sometimes accompanied by a call to an entrepreneurial life. For many people, living by their wits and engaging in meaningful work for a variety of clients beats the old paradigm that promised “job security”, in exchange for corporate conformity. To succeed, they need to establish their business image. Even those whose careers keep them within an organizational context are discovering the need and advantages of “intra-preneurial” image management. Establishing a reputation as someone who is current on the irrespective sector/industry/field helps them move fluidly between roles that harness their motivated skills. Donna Messer will be truly missed. I look forward to following in her footsteps

n Day Merrill, MALS Career Management Coach President, 2BDetermined Inc. www.2bdetermined.ca

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Woman

ID 22537746 © Nvnkarthik | Dreamstime.com

BUSINESS, FINANCE

Making a

Difference

Donna Messer 1945-2015

Nominee "Women on the Move", Donna Messer billed herself as the "Link Lady". Donna was a political science graduate who used networking as a survival tool in 1979 when, with a $3000 loan, she founded Orange Crate, a packaged spice company. Stepping forth on a shoestring budget and living in Rosemont, a rural community of 300 residents, she ventured out to build a pipeline of talent to tap into. With a vision Donna recruited people from all walks of life. Neighbours pitched in. The school bus drivers became the delivery people. Her production staff had many challenges but they saw the big picture and loved helping out. Within a year Orange Crate sales brought in over one million dollars and Donna won an "Employer of the Year" award for her leadership skills. She sold the company in 1989 and then launched a consulting firm called ConnectUS™ Communications Canada, to handle business startups. ConnectUS™ is a training firm specializing in networking skills and teaching the unemployed to become successfully self-employed. Her clients included major banks, government agencies, Fortune 500 companies and even one-person home based businesses. "If everyone thinks of where their opportunities are, in the event of a downsizing, it isn't a disappointment, it's a present.

"I recommend that every single, solitary person start taking a look at the opportunity to form their own company" Expanding on what she believed in, Donna developed yet another business called Match Maker... Match Maker collects profiles of businesses and puts them into a data base system alphabetically so they can be called up by profile or common denominator (i.e. agriculture, farm equipment, land development). This process enables participants of the event/conference to make contact with like-businesses either at their hotel, or place of notice on a bulletin board if one company representative would like to meet another delegate and note the time or place of where they would like to meet them. There are also forms to sign "memorandums of understanding" during the event so all the matches are duplicated, replicated and recorded. As a revenue share it is incredible. Working in partnerships/sponsorships with companies like Hewlett Packard or Xerox, a conference maximizes the participation for its delegates. Everyone who attends gets full opportunity to see the conference, hear the speakers, to learn and to meet other people on site during the conference. Two people networking with everyone and the other two doing the administrative duties. Match Maker built a data base so wherever they went they could provide cross referencing to all delegates in attendance. More and more conferences are using this Match Maker technique...as a vital practice in successful business. Donna noted, "that good networkers know it's really about finding needs and fulfilling them, not cornering contacts and foisting products or services on them. "You'll never call them hoping to add value to their life. You call them because there may be a fit between what they do and what you do and that fit is beneficial to both sides." Good networkers focus on what they can do for others, rather than thinking of ways others can help them...

Donna Messer was a writer for Women with Vision Magazine for 15 years and will be greatly missed! ~Article originally written by Lorraine Leslie, Publisher

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BUSINESS, FINANCE

COMMUNICATION

BUSINESS, FINANCE

HOW TO RECYCLE YOUR

Floppy Discs

By Sophia Bennett

It might be hard to believe now, but the 5¼-inch floppy disk, then the 3½-inch disk, was once the pinnacle of data storage. With the invention of better devices that could store more data, such as CDs and flash drives, floppy disks were added to the long list of obsolete electronics. While a few creative minds have put them to use in craft projects, no one uses them for file storage anymore. So, unless you are prepared to sew yourself a floppy disk tote bag, the only thing to do with them is send them to a qualified recycler. What is a floppy disk made of? A 5 ¼-inch floppy disk is made with an inner layer of Mylar plastic, a type of PET, coated with iron oxide. (The same type of plastic is used to make the ribbon used in cassette and VHS tapes). The iron allows the 0s and 1s that make up computer data to be magnetically imprinted and retrieved. The plastic is cut into a disk so it can spin around and retrieve bits of data stored in concentric rings (similar to a vinyl record). The disk is put inside a protective covering, also made with plastic, to keep it safe from harm. The covering is typically lined with a lightweight fabric designed to remove dust particles. A 3 ½-inch disk is a little different. The device has a metal piece in the center, called a hub, which holds the disk in place while it spins. There is also a metal tab called a shutter that moves to the side once it is in a computer to give the machine access to the data. The outside of the disk is made with rigid, not soft, plastic. The disk on the inside is the same Mylar plastic. Although magnetic storage dates back to the beginning of the 20th century, it was first used for storing computer files in the 1970s. How to recycle floppy disks If you have information on floppy disks you want to keep, there are a couple of ways to transfer it. One is to purchase an external floppy disk drive. Many major electronics retailers carry the devices, which come equipped with a USB port so you can plug it into your computer. Another option is to find a company that offers floppy disk transfer services. Typically, you send them the old floppies and they move everything to a CD.

Once you have all of the information transferred from the disks, consider erasing or destroying them. Keeping your information private in the digital age is extremely important, and if those disks contain sensitive personal details or proprietary information about your business, why risk it? It is easy to destroy data saved on a floppy disk (which was always one of the downsides of the technology). There are free programs available for download that will let you reformat the disks. You can also take them apart and cut the Mylar disks into small pieces. Companies offer floppy disk recycling Now that your disks are free of important data, they are ready for recycling. There are several companies that specialize in recycling floppy disks. One is Green Disk, located outside of Seattle. While the company does not describe its process for recycling floppy disks, it notes that CDs and DVDs are shredded and sold to EPA-certified recyclers for reprocessing. Green Disk takes care to keep the different types of plastic separate, which is vital if it is going to be reused. It seems safe to assume floppy disks, which are also made of plastic, go through a similar process. Green Disk also accepts other hard-to-recycle technology items such as jump drives, cell phones, pagers, PDAs, portable cassette players, beta tapes, camera film and rechargeable batteries. There is a small charge for the company’s recycling services, but you can ship up to 25 pounds of material for the same price, so it may be a good idea to chuck other items in the box with your floppy disks. Institutions can invest in Green Disk’s collection bins if they plan on collecting a large quantity of material. Floppydisk.com, based in California, is another example of a company that accepts floppy disks for recycling. The online company takes disks in small to large quantities. All you have to do is pop them in the mail and pay for the cost of postage, and the company will take care of them. There is no charge for its services; in fact, Floppydisk.com is sometimes willing to buy large lots of disks, and if you send more than 200 disks, it will reimburse you for the cost of shipping (as long as you include the necessary reimbursement form). The website does not provide details about how materials are recycled. See more at: http://1800recycling.com/2014/02/recyclefloppy-disks#sthash.K88QwIwt.dpuf n Sophia Bennett http://www.sophiathewriter.com/

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COMMUNICATION

The Organized Image

Though floppy disks are long obsolete, many of them are still lying around. Here's how to transfer your information and safely recycle them. Experts say there are millions of computers sitting in people’s closets waiting for disposal. If that computer is more than 20 years old, chances are there is a box of floppy disks sitting right beside it.

By Karen Sencich Experts inundate business people about the importance of effective branding. How our brand is perceived is often based on our personal appearance and our ability to present an overall organized business image.

Use this 12-point checklist to polish your image until it shines. 1. Media Image - Be honest and upbeat, never flip or sarcastic during media interviews. Create a business biography and media kit highlighting your accomplishments.

8. Clothing and Accessories – Maintain a wardrobe that is clean, pressed and in good repair. Opt for fashion styles that flatter you and choose accessories appropriate for each business dress or casual event.

9. Organization – Beyond your personal appearance,

2. Networking - Smile, maintain eye contact and present

others will evaluate you based on the tidiness of your car as well as how fashionable and organized your briefcase and purse appear.

a firm handshake. Develop a sizzling one minute introduction that you can deliver with confidence.

10. Yakkety-Yak – Don’t tarnish your business image by

3. Branding by Logo – Develop a clear, conceptualized logo for your website, business cards, stationary, brochures and promotional items. Utilize fonts and graphics that reflect and enhance your company image. Branding by logo is especially important at trade shows and speaking engagements.

4. Messaging – Ensure that your company name, logo and tag line are identified on all business forms, in e-mail signatures and implement welcoming messages on your business and cellular phones.

5. Correspondence – Spelling, grammar and proper format count in business correspondence. The topic selection and content of your newsletter and blog also reflect upon your image.

6. Maintain an Effective Workspace - Minimize paper piles and personal clutter.

Personal Grooming – Adopt an easy to maintain hair style and set personal standards for hair care, manicure and oral hygiene.

answering your cellphone at inappropriate times. The individuals that you are with deserve your undivided attention, so allow calls to go to voicemail, preferably without a beeping alert.

11. Mind Your Manners – Practise acceptable social etiquette that covers all of the cultures with whom you interact. An etiquette expert can teach you the specifics.

12. Being on Time Matters! Track dates digitally or in a paper planner that includes both business and personal appointments. Build in “wiggle room” so you’ll have time to handle last minute crisis situations and still be on time. Finally, track the effectiveness of your business and personal image by creating a “Google Alert”. When you register for Google Alerts they will deliver to your inbox a listing of the online articles you’ve published, the events you’ve been associated with and links from any websites that mention you. n Karen Sencich CPO® Certified Professional Organizer®, Speaker and Writer www.havoctoharmony.com www.womenwithvision.ca

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Intertrigo:

By Lesley Paul, B.Sc. Phm

A FANCY NAME FOR A COMMON RASH As a frontline healthcare provider, I am often asked some awkward questions, since I pursued a career in pharmacy, I suppose that is what I signed up for. As a female pharmacist, women frequently approach me with questions about their “private parts”. I do empathize with these women. It is always reassuring to consult my female colleagues knowing that they not only have the knowledge, but also may have had similar experiences. A common concern for many women is the uncomfortable yeast infection. Most of us are familiar with the vaginal yeast infection, however there’s another kind that inflicts females with larger breasts. Not only must the full-busted lady contend with back pain, permanent grooves in the skin and ill-fitting clothing, but also she is susceptible to a painful, malodorous rash called “intertrigo”. Intertrigo is simply a fancy word for a rash that occurs in the skin folds. It can also be found in other areas such as the groin, armpits, belly and any other areas where skin touches skin. It can occur in both females and males, young and old. The rash is caused by frictional rubbing, increased temperatures and moisture and can be complicated by yeast or bacterial growth. Other activities such as biking or running as well as excessive weight gain, diabetes or chronic stress can also contribute to the rash. Intertrigo can also occur in infants. Their chubby skin folds, shorter necks and flexed posture make excellent breeding grounds for yeast.

Treatment (and prevention) of the rash is fairly straightforward as well.

• Shower and dry off thoroughly each day. Avoid the use of fragranced soaps and cleansers. Do not scrub the area. • Try to keep the skin cool and dry all day. A hair dryer on the cool setting can be helpful. • Avoid wearing tight clothing. • Wear a bra with good support. Having a bra professionally fitted is a good idea. Change your bra often, even in the middle of the day if it becomes moist. • Wear an all cotton bra while sleeping, especially if you perspire at night. • A barrier cream may help protect the skin from other irritants. • An antifungal or antibacterial cream may be recommended, especially if an odour is present. In some cases, a mild steroid cream can be used for a short period. • If the rash doesn’t clear with the above interventions within 6 months consult a dermatologist.

Typically intertrigo starts as a mild, red rash that is often itchy. Over time the rash becomes more inflamed, sometimes with a scaly appearance and a musty odour to it.

Intertrigo can be difficult to treat, but it’s not impossible. It just takes a bit of diligence. Your “girls” will thank you.

Generally, intertrigo is easy to diagnose and treat. Simple inspection by a healthcare provider can diagnose the rash but also indicate whether a dermatologist should be seen.

n Lesley Paul, Pharmacist dlpaul@sympatico.ca

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MOBILE DIGNITY

for Seniors By Laura Hodgkiss

Change can be a scary word for a senior or elderly person. It can result in the loss of independence, dignity and privacy; and may even result in the loss of their family home. As ill health and medical conditions advance, seniors are faced with limited mobility and strength. This can make it difficult for an elderly person to age in one’s own home. However, there are several practical steps that can be taken to help a parent ‘age in place’. The bathroom is one of the best places to start your safety renovations due to the high risk of falls and injuries from slippery and hard surfaces. There are several inexpensive ways to ensure that your bathroom changes are minimal enhancing mobility for seniors. A bath bench or shower stool allows the senior/elder to sit down while showering to decrease the risk of falls. An elevated toilet seat will help them get up safely and with less effort. With Grab bars attached near the shower or toilet they can provide assistance when getting in and out of the shower or on and off the toilet.

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A hand-held shower wand allows them to bathe the entire body from the comfort and safety of a bath bench. Non-slip rubber mats or adhesive strips ensure that their feet will be firmly planted on the bottom of the tub. The Ontario Healthy Homes Renovation Tax Credit, provided by the Provincial Government, allows eligible home owners and family members who live with them to claim up to $10,000 of eligible home modifications. In order to qualify you must be 65 years or older by the end of the tax year in which you are claiming the credit or living with a family member who is a senior. The tax credit covers eligible expenses in your bathroom and other areas of your home.

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In today's society our goal is to keep the aging population safe and comfortable in their own homes. When you make modifications to your home or to the home of your family member you are investing in their safety and your peace of mind.

n Laura Hodgkiss Home Health Care Practitioner Stuart Ellis Pharmacy

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Finding Health Clinic

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Are you looking for an alternative health care system that has the power to transform your health...one that respects and operates in cooperation with your body’s priorities and needs? Then Jessy’s “Finding Health” Clinic is for you!

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When I think of a woman making a difference, Cheryl Hickey comes to mind. You might recognize her as the international celebrity and host of (Entertainment Tonight) ET Canada®. I’ve had the pleasure of working with Cheryl a number of times over the past ten years, featuring her in Women with Vision Magazine and working together at a fundraising gala. I most recently did an interview with her for the Women with Vision TV Show. When I heard Cheryl was creating a new, all natural health care product, I had to call her... Cheryl’s TV career started in Owen Sound at the age of sixteen. Now a busy wife and mother of two children, Cheryl is always looking for skin care lotions, shampoos etc. that are healthy and cost efficient...hence she started working with a chemist at Swiss Pharm and together they came up with a selection of products designed to look after the delicate skin of families of all shapes and sizes. Cheryl shared, “I was looking for all natural yet gentle and safe ingredients that nurtures us while protecting our skin — from babies’ delicate skin to rough and tumbling kids or adults with sensitive skin. We only included all natural, simple ingredients that have been used for centuries, making sure they exclude harsh chemicals and toxins— there are no Parabens, SLS, Alcohol, Phthalayes, Gluten and Silicon in any of the OURS products.” (www.oursbycherylhickey.com)

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OURS is a line of multipurpose products designed to save time and money. So, when a busy, caring mother/wife, celebrity and business woman openly and honestly shares her vision for people from all walks of life and ages around the world to use safe and healthy personal cleansing products from head to toe, she is definitely one of our women with vision making a difference!

Cheryl Hickey at the Rexall Drug Store in Collingwood for the Grand Opening and Launch of OURS

BEAUTY

What’s Your Image!

By Jessy Morrison

My mother was a Couturier Designer and Master Tailor. She gave birth to me, an ultra conservative dresser - I could care less about fashion. My daughter inherited my mother’s flair. Even at eighty-nine my mother still wears her beautiful hats with her curly hair escaping and blowing in the wind, clean white gloves, and dress pumps to church. She is dubbed “the queen mother” by all our friends. Even at 4’8” she has a regal commanding presence. She doesn’t put on airs; it is just her style, quality of clothes, and her charisma. Those who see her in the garden see a different Ernestine, however, she sports her big straw hat over her curly hair, shorts, halter top, and sandals with hands covered in dirt. She is at home in both images; they are but a small piece of who she truly is. She was an independent parent, a single mom and proud of it too, but no one knew. Most often when we think of “image” we think of body image and how we portray ourselves to others. But I have found that what people think of me is often NOT how I see myself at all. When I left corporate to become a Reiki and Body Talk practitioner I traded all my suits for track pants and soft fleece casual wear. I thought I had to look like a massage therapist, but that did not feel right. So I upgraded to white flowy guru type clothes to fit into the image of the clinics I was working out of. That too was incongruent, and people sensed it. I am a corporate no-nonsense type gal, I fit in with A-type personalities. I love my pencil skirts, pant suits and heels. Now I am comfortable again. However my wardrobe was only a small piece of who I am, or who I am perceived as. As soon as I became comfortable in who I really wanted to “BE”, others were too; no matter how I dressed, or what people called me.

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re u u a o yo o h y ho of w ... w to go be up ttin g lf to g kin s le rse Wa uir e you e req agi n m i

LIFESTYLE

When we are out of tune with our truth, we feel uncomfortable in our own skin. The negative chatter we hear in our heads isn’t truth; our soul only speaks with love and supportive thoughts. What about labels? How much of our own image is due to what others have said we are? A powerful exercise to clean up your image is to write out on individual index cards every “label” you have ever been given. As many as you can think of, write until you are empty. For instance: wife, sister, mother, mistress, girlfriend, ex-artist, dancer, bitch, athlete, ice maiden, strong, weak, needy, confident, fearful, doctor, student, healer, whatever – you get where I’m coming from.... Don’t analyze just write, get it all out! Then place the word cards on the floor and stand on them. Notice your body’s reaction! Do you feel tall and expansive, or tired and droopy? Let your body energy decide, this is not a head game. This is about feeling your energy, and what you identify as truth on a soul level. For those of you who do body dowsing or muscle testing use that, but if this is new or unknown to you just stand on each label for 10 seconds or so and ask “Is this true for me”. Have two bags ready: one for the keepers and one for the not really me pile. You get to torch the latter. You may be surprised. What other people think of us is none of our business – who said that?

We are not the labels others give us! n Jessy Morrison Body Talk - relief@jessymorrison.ca

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LIFESTYLE

MIRRORING

Your Image By Marilyn Wetston The Wardrobe Doctor

Whether you see yourself in a mirror or in a photo or in the eyes of another, the perception of your image is a perspective unique unto the beholder. It comprises a mood and message dependent upon how you have chosen to present yourself. For those who have given their message some thought, the way they present becomes an extension of their persona and a way to reach out and communicate to others. In the time it takes to blink, your personal image has sent your message to anyone who glimpses you. Therefore it is important to understand what you wear and how you wear it contributes to how you speak to the world. Some speak loudly and boldly in vivid colors. Others whisper timidly in pastels. Whether you wish to exude success and opulence or express a modest message or a devil may care one or….the message is yours to express.

You control what the camera or eye captures and how it will be interpreted. Each and every item you add to your wardrobe is like adding a new word to your speaking vocabulary. When what you wear captures your spirit and values, as well as enhancing your total look, it does more than just cover your body. It makes you feel comfortable like a second skin while also expressing elements of the person you are.

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To pull your look together requires introspection to gain understanding of your values and personality. It also takes an out of body experience so you can see and appraise your external features including your colouring, your body proportions, your stature and your overall demeanour. It is up to you to use this information to create the image that most fits your personal appraisal and lifestyle needs.

BEAUTY

The fashion component becomes one of examining the clothes offered for the current season and determining what, if anything, will help you dress the part you have established as your best present image.

Belted tunics, wrap skirts, military jackets, jumpsuits and more are offered to any woman wanting a new look. The choice is yours to make. Opt for the items that flatter your shape and that fit your lifestyle.

This season offers numerous looks. To each of us they offer opportunity to expand our personal message and build it on the same framework we have already established.

Don’t forget color. Select those that enhance your natural gifts and those that bring you eye contact.

For the gypsy in you - if there is one, bohemia offers exotic prints in soft easy layering pieces: Caftans, vests, suede items, fringes, tassels and more. One element of this fantasy apparel incorporated with more simple classic attire will give a glimpse of your “hippy” spirit. A black impeccably tailored outfit will give you an opportunity to exude power. Embrace a structured jacket over a fitted dress and be totally at ease at the office.

In the end your closet is home for your unique wardrobe. The individual items will be yours to use to establish your specific message each and every day – your best image.

n Marilyn Wetston, Branding Expert Wardrobe Doctor of Marilyn’s in Toronto contact@marilyns.ca www.marilyns.ca

Opt for a feminine flirty item in lace and express the romance in your heart. A white lace underpinning will totally merge power-dressing tailored items and your feminine romantic side. Wear a relaxed trench to cover up all your looks and be stylishly ready for all weather and all occasions. How you wear it will send your message. When it is buttoned and tied properly it will say I am prepared. When it is open and falling softly it will say I am approachable and relaxed. As always how you wear your clothing will relate to the image you are building. To express your spirit of adventure you could opt for either a new cropped cut wide leg trouser or its total opposite, a slim ankle grazing pant. Each relates differently and will add to your ability to communicate with your wardrobe.

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Joyce Before

Joyce After

Image Chart

From Sabotage

Highest Power – Most Corporate

TO SAVVY By Karen Brunger, BHEc, AICI CIP

Joyce’s Story When Joyce entered politics she struggled with getting her ideas heard and gaining support. Her casual, ill-fitting, cheap clothes, out-dated hair, and ill-applied make-up were sabotaging her chances. Fortunately, she came to me for help! When Joyce called me to tell me she won the nomination, she said, “There is no way I would have won if I hadn’t changed my image.” The Image Chart on the next page shows levels of dress from High Power to Creative Relaxed. You can use this as a guideline to identify the image that is right for your situation. A high power image is suited to “left brain” industries – finance, investment, medicine, and politics. A relaxed or creative image is appropriate for “right brain” functions – design, the arts, beauty, and marketing. Many industries are balanced between these two extremes – being both professional and progressive. Choose the elements from each to position yourself appropriately.

n Karen Brunger Founder and President International Image Institute Inc., ww.internationalimageinstitiute.com

www.womenwithvision.ca

Photos by Kelvin Cheng

Have you ever wondered what to wear to be appropriate for the situation? The choices in styles, colours and fabrics available for women seem to be limitless. Yet it can be an incredible challenge to find the right combination of styles, colours and fabrics that are best suited not only to your physical characteristics and personality, but to the situation as well. As an image consultant, I have seen that most women sabotage themselves in their image - both professionally and personally. When I am called into organizations to give image help, a typical scenario is that the women are dressed at least one level below the men! Since there are still cases where women are earning less than their male counterparts in the same job, we don’t need to let image be a contributing factor.

LIFESTYLE

BEAUTY

Most Relaxed or Creative Least Corporate

Classic matched suit with knee-length skirt in a fine wool

Unconstructed, soft, loose, flowing

Dark, cold, neutral colour: charcoal gray or navy blue

Light, bright, warm colours: yellow, pink, peach

Solid or pin-stripe suit

Patterns that are large, contrasting, and floral

Crisp white shirt with collar, long sleeves, and cuffs

Sleeveless, collarless top

Dark classic pump

Open, embellished; sandal, sneaker

Sheer nude hose

Hose that is opaque, patterned, textured, or non-existent

Jewellery is white, yellow, or rose gold, and may have a semi-precious or precious stone

Jewellery of any material

Jewellery is minimal and nondistracting: stud or small hoop earring, no more than 1 ring-set per hand, simple bracelet

Large statement jewellery pieces or multiple pieces

Hair worn above the shoulder and neatly styled in a natural colour

Long, curly hair, unnatural colour

Classic, neutral make-up with red-hued lipstick one shade darker than natural lip colour

Strong makeup, unusual makeup, clean face, frosted or glittery makeup

Nails clear-polished or French manicured

Unnatural nail colours, nail embellishments

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Ge orgian

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Photography ÂŠ Frank Greco, Getting The Shot

Gourmet

n Susanne Mikler Co-founder Liaison College www.liaisoncollege.com

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Photos ÂŠ Dreamstime.com

HOME, GARDEN DESIGN

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Transformational Coaching

Business Mentor • Marketing Consultant • Advertising Specialist

Life Line Transformational Coaching is your professional link to building awareness and taking your business and personal life to the next level. Improve your marketing and communications skills while achieving your life goals.

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Lorraine Leslie 1-866-306-6021 womenwithvision@rogers.com

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HOME, GARDEN

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Your Home’s Image...

Don’t forget the sides and back of the house, people driving by will strain to see the back, often driving around the block to gain a 360 perspective. Patio furniture arranged in a sitting area or a fire pit is a great feature to incorporate and provides a perfect spot for the Buyer to envision entertaining family and friends. The exterior of your home is the home’s calling card. Buyers will drive by very slowly and may even park outside your home and assess whether they wish to see inside the property. Create a great first impression that reflects the true value of your home. It does not matter if your home has a small yard or if you have acres of property, it pays to get it and keep it in shape.

By Monika Gibson First impressions are everything especially when selling your home. If Buyers will not get out of the Realtor’s car because they do not like the look of the exterior of the home, then you can never show off the interior. According to a recent online survey 78% say curb appeal is “extremely” or “very” important. Buyers who like what they see on line will often drive by a home. Thus, your home’s exterior, front entry, yard, driveway, etc. should serve as a snapshot of what is inside and entice people to view further. What impression are you portraying

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DESIGN

chair. The focal point of a home is the front door, make a statement with an attractive new door with lead glass inserts. If you cannot justify the cost of a new door, consider a fresh coat of paint or stain and replacing the doorknob with some new attractive hardware. Your entry should reflect the home’s interior so choose a swag or wreath that reflects your personal style and a welcome mat that truly says come in....you’re welcome here.

Creating a Great First Impression

Dirty windows and gutters, cracked driveways, missing shingles and poor lighting can downgrade your homes appeal. An exterior facelift can transform the dreary look of a home and add instant energy and money to your bottom line when you are selling. Mow the lawn, get rid of weeds, edge sidewalks and trim bushes so that you can see out the windows, and pressure wash decks and siding. Stow out of site recycle bins, trash cans and gardening tools. Be sure that your house number is clearly visible and replace exterior bulbs. Buyers do drive by in the evening so ensure that your home shows well when the

n Monika Gibson Sales Representative Century 21 Millennium, Collingwood

sun goes down with solar lights that illuminate or spot light some of your home’s best features. Colourful container gardens can quickly and affordably add a welcoming feel and colourful curb appeal to your home. Window boxes are added charm; consider copper or iron for a traditional feel or painted wood for a cottage look and feel. Prune old plants and add new mulch in the garden for an instant lift and to restore color from the harsh winter. Add personality with artistic pieces in the garden, contrasting container sizes, or a great lounge www.womenwithvision.ca

HOME, GARDEN

DESIGN

The Inner Garden

DESIGN

Photography courtesy of Janet Kurasz

By Janet Kurasz, Hort, AMCT(A)

The most successful landscape designs are those that reflect who you are; your feelings, your motivations. The overall feeling of the landscape is an expression of the inner self. Each one of us has memories that are snapshots of moments in time. When the landscape captures some of these images stylistically or makes reference in an imaginative way, then the landscape truly feels like part of the inner self. I’ve written in the past about the healing properties of gardens and the growing movement to introduce horticultural therapy as part of a holistic healing approach. Incorporating one’s own experiences into the landscape creates a personal and satisfying environment. There are generic elements in the garden such as texture, fragrance and colour that will create beautiful outdoor spaces. When you introduce elements that reflect images from your past, they will recall memories bringing your garden to life through a connection to your inner self. These images are stimulated by your surroundings through sight, sound, smell and touch. The sound of busy bumble bees humming, reminds me of a flowering tree that formed a canopy at my front entrance at a former residence. A horticultural friend of mine says “spring smells like photosynthesis”. Consider the mental images this statement generates.

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You can draw from childhood memories, places you have travelled to, books, art, family – these all inspire mental images to help you create a more sensual and pleasing garden. The images can be represented by garden elements. Benches, rustic pathways, the sound of running water are elements that will draw you into the space when they have personal meaning.

My passion in Real Estate leads to your Good Fortune. Monika Gibson Sales Representative Representative Sales

A walk through your own landscape, taking notes and reflecting on memories that bring you pleasure will 72 Hurontario Street, Collingwood, ON L9Y 2L8 identify places in the garden that already inspire those Direct Line: 705-607-0445 Office: 705-445-5640 www.century21.ca/monika.gibson feelings. Other areas in the landscape may not meet your expectations. It could be because the emotional connection is lacking. These areas can be improved by introducing items that represent personal moments. Write down what senses you would like to enhance – is it fragrance, sound, visual calmness or colour? Do you remember walking through a rose covered arbour on your wedding day? This can be reproduced in the garden, inspiring all the emotions of that memorable day. I have plants throughout my garden, given to me by family and friends. Each plant reminds me of that person and what they mean to me. My mother, who passed away 10 years ago, loved yellow tulips. I have planted yellow tulips in her memory. When I sit on my park bench amongst the cedars, it takes me back to all the gardens I have visited where I sat on a bench taking in the views. After what feels like a long, cold winter, thoughts of t-shirts and shorts are already beckoning us outside to catch a few warm rays. Dorian Hunt introduced the concept of the Inner Garden back in 1982 as an assignment for the master’s program in Holistic Education and Counseling. Many gardeners have uncovered the inner garden, by chance, and in some cases it is a journey that has taken many years. I’m still learning and adding meaningful elements to my garden. In the stillness, I hear my own voice. In the calm, I see my own face. In the sanctuary of my inner garden, I feel my own heart. In my inner garden, the air is filled with the sweet aroma of my victories and accomplishments. My eyes are dazzled by the delicate flowering of relationships and alliances that bring me strength and joy. I walk upon the fertile soil — dark and rich and moist — ready to bring forth new life. ~ Excerpt from a Reflection by Debra Bloom n Janet Kurasz, Horticulturist www.kurasz.ca www.womenwithvision.ca

HOME, GARDEN

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This project has received full support of many talented and well known artists who have done an amazing job of decorating these structures. These boxes will be part of a silent auction over the two day festival. Support of over 40 local exhibitors and funds raised from the event will go directly towards the development of an environmental "Eco-Park" which is a joint venture between Stayner Collegiate Institute and Clearview Township. For more information go to: www. natureleague.ca or enquire@natureleague.ca

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On September 12th and 13th a fundraising event, called the Green & Healthy Living Festival will be hosted by a local Nature League, at the Collingwood Curling Arena. Both artisans and environmentalists from several local committees will showcase the idea of combining art and the environment – hence the birdhouse project was created.

ARTS ENTERTAINMENT

ARTS

ENTERTAINMENT

Anne May

ARTS

Stranding and Standing Out in the Crowd…

ENTERTAINMENT

Anne May head-punching

By Dean Hollin It’s often these days that, either through necessity or desire, folks occasionally “reinvent” themselves. Perhaps a particular occupation is not working out in one way or another. Perhaps an individual has finally reached that breaking point with a job they really don’t enjoy, deciding that it’s high-time to go after their dream. Imagine, alternately, if you will, taking the skill-set you’ve long ago learned and reinventing it just a bit. Adding a few layers and taking avenues you might never have expected to take. Anne May, did just that and the result has been rather dramatic!

Rocky Horror Show

Suessical Madame Butterfly

Anne playfully refers to herself as a “wig-aholic”. Her interest in hair, however, began with the real stuff in a pretty traditional way. Not too long after her marriage to Gary, Anne became a hairstylist. Full-time turned to part-time as the family grew and needed her, however, hairstyling was always close by. After working for two decades in her craft, fate took an exciting turn when a church-member asked her to lend a hand with a play they were mounting. Anne loved things theatrical and gladly agreed to assist with costumes, hair, make-up and whatever else needed tending to. In order to properly ‘prep’ herself for the task, she turned to some area theatres including her hometown’s professional group, Theatre Aquarius. Artistic Director, Peter Mandia pointed her to the Wardrobe Department for the guidance she needed. Not only did she walk away with a greater knowledge, but she soon found herself sewing feathers on costume pieces for an upcoming production of “The Rez Sisters”. Then the Aquarius folk realized Anne’s great knowledge of hair… The next thing Anne knew she was creating wigs for an upcoming production of “Annie”. This was the mid-nineties and she’s been a mainstay at Aquarius ever since – wigs being her thing. As she’d clearly been bitten by the continued on page 58

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ARTS

ENTERTAINMENT

Anne May...continued from page 57

May Heartstopper pic

Well things in life can have a way of morphing, can’t they? Wig-styling turned into learning the craft of wigmaking. The bit of make-up work she offered over the years turned into specialty make-up. And I mean specialty make-up – the Special F/X stuff! Stage work led to film work. Anne’s met a bunch of stars over the years. Her day-to-day is packed with new challenges and reasons to keep learning new elements of the trade. Her skills are being used by an increasing number of theatres and such, including Drayton Entertainment. She’s never given up the salon work – still puts in at least a couple of days a week running her hands and scissors through the real stuff. For over four decades, Anne May’s life has been about “image” – creating or maintaining looks for people in the real world, and doing the same for the world of illusion. One can’t begin to calculate the trillions of strands of hair she’s manipulated -- and there doesn’t seem to be an end in sight any time soon! Dean Hollin Singer, Playwright and Live Stage Performer www.deanhollin.com

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Photo courtesy of inda Thorn

“backstage theatre bug”, she began volunteering for Opera Hamilton (lots and lots of wigs there, lemme tell ya)! The volunteer position became a paid Supervisor position which spanned over a decade.

Sulwen, 4 yrs. on the left and Jorah, 6 yrs. on the right with their dog Maya

ARE YOU

Beautiful? By Linda Thorn

A poignant experiment in self-image is on YouTube and was conducted by a soap company. Several people, mostly women, were chosen to individually describe their facial appearance to Gil Zamora, a San Jose Police forensic artist who was seated behind a curtain. In turn, as each woman told Gil how their nose, eyes, chin, forehead, mouth etc. looked, they inevitably repeated the negative comments that they had learned as youngsters from parents or relatives. Florence tells that her mother said she had a “big jaw”. Kela describes her “big forehead”. These people were not allowed to see their own sketches at this time. After their session with Gil, each person was returned to a

waiting area where each was instructed to chat with a specific other volunteer. The third part of the session was to again sit on the other side of the curtain from Gil and now describe their new acquaintance as he sketched. Florence’s “big jaw” now became a “nice thin chin” as described by new friend Chloe. Kela’s “big forehead” wasn’t mentioned but her warm smile was highlighted by a volunteer. Then each person was brought into the room to meet Gil, the artist. As he showed the stark comparison of their own continued on pg. 60

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ARTS

ENTERTAINMENT

Are You Beautiful?...continued from page 59

facial description with their sketch as described by another participant, there were many tears. Melinda said her own sketch was “closed off; she looked fatter and sadder”. But her sketch described by another was “open, friendly and happy”. Some learned they had a “cute nose” or “nice blue eyes”. Each person realized that they were too severe and negative about their own looks. They all agreed that they ought to be grateful and aware of their natural beauty which is critical to their happiness and that they are more beautiful than they think. In a similar film in several world locations, signs were posted in the country’s language AVERAGE and BEAUTIFUL, over entrance doors into a public building. Women were filmed choosing which door option to walk through and then they were interviewed inside the foyer. The women who chose AVERAGE regretted it when asked. The ones who chose BEAUTIFUL had a triumphant feeling of confidence. Thinking this might be a good lesson in selfconfidence, I called my two granddaughters (Sulwen, pictured left and Jorah, pictured right with their dog Maya on previous page) from their playing to explain the two experiments. Then I asked them in turn which door she would choose to walk through. The 6 year old said, “I would choose the BEAUTIFUL door because I feel beautiful inside and it doesn’t matter what I look like”. Hurray! I began to think this was a bit beyond the 4 year old who turned from her dollies to look at me intently and just said, “Bootiful” and resumed playing. Which door would you choose? Linda Thorn Freelance writer Author- Beautiful Joe PoemBook

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ÂŠ Evgeny Parushin | Dreamstime.com

MOTIVATIONAL INSPIRATIONAL

...gentle insights of awareness and change

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Karen

Brunger

MY FAIR

Lady!

By Lorraine Leslie

In the fall of 2014 I was searching the internet for the International Image Institute and to my delight I connected with the founder Karen Brunger. We chatted through email for a few days where I mentioned I would like to meet her and for her to give me a call if she was going to be in the area. Well, within a few short weeks we were sitting in a mutual friend’s cottage having tea. Our friendship grew and Karen became a writer for Women with Vision Magazine and an exhibitor at the International Women’s Day Expo in Collingwood. Intrigued by Karen’s story, I asked if she would like to share it with our readers... Karen reminds of the movie My Fair Lady! Karen was born late January in 1958 in Woodlands, Manitoba. “I grew up on a farm. We had six cows, one pig, fifty chickens, and crops. I can’t remember how old I was but my dad eventually sold the cattle and got a job as a welder in Winnipeg to help make ends meet. My mom was a homemaker who did all the sewing, gardening, and canning. I was fortunate to have wonderful parents. We had a wood-burning furnace, but no running water or indoor plumbing.” “I was home-schooled in grade 1 when I was 5. Since my birthday was in January, my mother didn’t want me to waste a year. So when I started grade 2 at Woodlands Elementary I was with kids a year older. My mother later regretted this as she thought this difference may have caused my shyness. I think I would have been shy anyway, and I am grateful that I got an early start!” “Woodlands school had four rooms with two grades per room. (I actually missed by 1 year going to a 1room school.) Grade two was okay, but in grade three I somehow became the victim of a bully. A classmate decided she was my best friend and became my jailer. She told me where to sit, when to move, where to look, and when to speak. I don’t know why I thought I had to listen to her. Every day was a nightmare from which I wasn’t released until I got home off the school bus. This continued until grade five, when I finally had enough. But instead of standing up to her, I wrote a note which I pretended was from my mother. The note said I wasn’t allowed to play with her anymore. I was free!! I was still shy, and an outcast, but I was free.”

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“In grade five our bodies were starting to change as puberty struck – some more than others. My friend was one of the first to develop early. The day she started wearing a bra, everyone noticed. She was probably 36DD. Can you imagine the comments from the 11-year old boys? Not to mention comments from the kids at higher grades. The comments went on all day – every day – every week – and every year. (By the time we reached high school my friend’s behaviour matched what had been ingrained.) I, on the other hand, maintained a child-like body into adulthood. So I felt like a child.” “In grade five we were all so happy when we finally got RUNNING WATER!” Karen said with a smile. “No indoor plumbing, though, and it was my job to “dump the pot” every day.” “I remember my first day of grade six. As I walked into the classroom and approached the group of girls, they all turned their backs and would not let me join their circle. I was ostracized again! So I spent that year just reading, as no one would let me join in any socializing or activities. When they played baseball outside I would stay in the school and read. I read a book a day.” “When I advanced into grade seven, the teacher let me read all the textbooks in advance and write all the exams early, so I finished grade seven by Christmas. But since I was already a year younger than everyone in my grade, he didn’t want to advance me. So I just kept reading more books and wrote book reports.” Thinking back to when she was eight years old, Karen recalls, “I was in 4-H, and my sewing and needlework always got winning red ribbons, primarily because of my 4-H teacher. She was amazing - she had six children, and they lived in a teeny tiny house that had a wood stove in the centre of the house, a table in one corner, a tiny counter and sink in another corner, a sofa in a third corner and a TV in the fourth. There were continued on pg. 66

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Karen Brunger ...continued from pg. 65

two teeny tiny bedrooms. One bedroom had two sets of bunkbeds for the four youngest, and the two oldest slept on the sofas. They had an outhouse and of course had to get their water from the well as we did but they always had space for me.” “At a time when everyone started blooming into beautiful women, I somehow became more troll-like. I developed one large eyebrow, which was partly covered by thick ugly glasses. My mother thought hair should not be washed more than once a week, so it was usually greasy. And since we couldn’t afford hairdressers, my mom was also my stylist – and I will say it was not her talent. My body formed in a way to match my incredibly low self-esteem – hunched shoulders, caved in chest, and knockknees.” “All through high school many of us had to take a second bus from Woodlands to go to Warren High School. This was a much bigger school – a total of 200 students. There were three options for each grade, and I took “A”, which was for university entrance. Even though there were even more bullies, there were also more people like me – so we stuck together. Also, some of the girls were not as mean as the Woodlands crowd, so I was included more often. It was pretty heady. But I was never one of the girls that went out to the cars at lunch time to “neck”, and I was never invited to a party.”

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Stonewall Fair. A little girl asked me for my autograph – that was kind of cool.” “At the instigation of my French teacher, I spent that summer after high school graduation, taking a French Immersion program - she thought I had an aptitude for languages. I moved out on my own and lived in residence at the University of Manitoba and spoke French for the entire summer. I made friends that I have to this day.” “I was seventeen years old when I entered into the Home Economics degree program, at the University of Manitoba. I lived with relatives close to the campus, so I could walk to class. I also got a part-time job on campus translating textbooks into Braille (I could type 110 wpm) to pay for my tuition and other expenses.” “With financial independence, I started to buy my own clothes, go to a good hairdresser, wear whatever makeup I wanted, and invest in contact lenses. I was still shy, but at least I started looking like a well-adjusted person. I even got a boyfriend.”

“When I was in grade ten we finally got INDOOR PLUMBING!”

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was trained to be a family counsellor. My boyfriend at the time encouraged me to fulfill my lifelong dream of living in Toronto. So I bought a one-way ticket, and moved to the big city in August 1979.” Karen started working in market research, and one of her colleagues asked her if she wanted to join her at Mimico Correctional Centre every Wednesday evening as a “square” in a self-help group for inmates. “(Flashback In grade eleven I had the idea it would be cool to go to jail and talk to inmates.) I attended as a square for two years, and then became the Coordinator of the 7th Step Program at Mimico, was elected to the Ontario Board of Directors, and in my last year received the “7th Stepper of the Year Award” (which was supposed to go to an ex-con).” “The 7 Step Program may have been designed for inmates, but it was transformational for me. I don’t know why, but I had always had an intense fear of men. On my first night when I found myself locked in a hallway with a crowd of men dressed in blue, I almost panicked. But in the group I was accepted and appreciated like I’d never been before. At break they all jumped up to get me the milky sweet tea that was delivered, and they kept offering me their precious cigarettes.”

“Around this time it was the thing to do, so like others I knew I had a psychic party, and the psychic told me to get out of jail work and out of probation – it was not the place for me. He said I was supposed to be doing something that combined fashion and social work, and to start taking courses. My friends said “Karen, of course you’re supposed to be in fashion! Look at you! How could you not know that?” So I enrolled in the Fashion Institute of Canada Continuing Education program. Colour Analysis training also came to Canada, and this was very exciting to me. I had always known there must be a system to objectively determine someone’s best colours. I was in the first training in Canada, and started my business as a Colour Consultant April 1st 1984. I also met my husband that month. Life was good!”

“When I was fourteen I spent a week at 4-H camp. Of course I was in agony because of my extreme social anxiety but I made friends with another person who was just as socially backward. She was the first person in my life who ever called me pretty. This inspired me to tweeze my eyebrows and shave my underarms and legs; I just had to make sure my mother never found out, as she didn’t believe in shaving. I would also get up really early in the morning to wash my hair very quietly. I started wearing makeup, and made sure it was washed off before mom got home from work.”

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At the same time she became a Volunteer Probation Officer, and she was often given the cases that required family counselling. “I was about to step into a position as a full-time paid Probation Officer, but my friend who was a P.O. advised me to re-think my decision.”

Being self sufficient Karen was able to take care of herself, so when her mother got a job in the city and started driving into Winnipeg every day with her dad, she was very proud of how she kept things at home running smoothly. Her parents alarm would sound at four a.m. in the dead of winter. They would drive to the city in the darkness and come home again in the dark. The prairie winters were bitterly cold.

“Graduation was fast approaching so I decided to design and made my own graduation dress which I also entered into a 4-H competition, and because of it I was crowned “Queen” at the

“I graduated with a Bachelor Degree at age twenty one. My major was Human Development, in the department of Family Studies, although my original intent was to take Fashion Merchandising and Design. This meant I

continued on pg. 68

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Karen Brunger ...continued from pg. 67

“My colour analysis led naturally into style and wardrobe consulting, and personal shopping. When asked to take on a new endeavour, I said “sure”, and then figured it out.” While getting nudges from her mentor and colour teacher, in 1985 she became the National Style and Wardrobe Trainer for Seasons, the largest colour consulting company in Canada. “For six years they sent me across Canada training people to be Style and Image Consultants. This led to training for clothing manufacturers and retailers. Since my part-time hobby was now taking more time than my full-time job, I let go of my safe, secure, salaried job to step into an unknown and risky sole proprietorship. At the request of my students I travelled to San Francisco to learn from worldrenown Image Consultant Robert Pante. I then developed an Advanced Image training program. I felt I was on a rocket shooting forward so fast that I was just trying to hang on. One of the things that set me apart from other consultants was that I took a holistic approach in training my students – hence I became known as the Holistic Image Consultant.” Karen was hired to teach the full-time program at the Fashion Institute of Canada. She hired guest speakers for the subjects she didn’t have experience in – especially fashion illustration! In 1990 this led her to teaching all of the non-makeup subjects at the School of Makeup Art, which she did for many years after. In 1991, Karen also started teaching Effective Speaking at Humber College, and then later taught in the full-time Fashion Merchandising program. By 1994 Karen developed the Image Consulting Program for George Brown College (GBC), and has continued to teach and provide teachers for the program for 20 years. Seasons was no longer supplying colour analysis tools and swatch wallets, so Karen took the initiative and started making her own, and then of course selling them to her students. “Life was moving quickly now as we started a Toronto chapter of the newly formed Association of Image Consultants International in 1993. The meeting nights conflicted with my GBC classes, but when I was nominated to be President-Elect, I changed the GBC schedule.” In 1996, Karen became the first certified Holographic Repatterning Practitioner in Canada – a system to

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Karen training in India, 2012

Life has certainly given Karen opportunities to step out of her shell. “I’ve learned to get out of my own way and I’m still learning to do that. I like to share; controlling anything doesn’t work – surrender and let it happen.” By 2020, Karen will have completed her next project her practical workbooks, the ultimate guide for the image consultant, published into four volumes.

teaching

identify and transform non-conscious patterns. She now calls this system Energy Shifting. That same year, Karen achieved Certified Image Professional status, and was asked to speak at her first Association of Image Consultants Conference (AICI) – held in Dallas in 1996. “I was invited to speak at the next conference in 1997, and was also invited to join the international Board of Directors as VP Education. This meant I was responsible for the standards and training of image consultants worldwide; I held this position for four years.” “During this time I experienced one of the most surreal events of my life. I was invited by the New York Chapter to come and speak at one of their meetings on how to be successful as an image consultant the twelve year old Karen didn’t know this was going to happen; it would have been beyond anything I could have imagined.” In 2003, Karen received the Award of Excellence from AICI, and in 2005 I got “Teacher of the Year Award” from GBC. By this time she had chaired and

Karen in 2006

served on so many committees, she felt it almost impossible to keep track. In 2006, she was elected President Elect for the International board of AICI, so this took another four years of focus and dedication. “In 2007, I became a contributing writer for a well-known magazine. I also started travelling a lot. Since then I have conducted trainings (sometimes consecutively for a number of years) in Boston, Atlanta, Baltimore, Los Angeles, Mexico City, Guadalajara, Santo Domingo, United Kingdom, Australia, South Korea, Tokyo, Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, China, and India.”

Her vision for retirement is to have a home in Costa Rica to spend her winters... have financial freedom and to have done training in South Africa, South America and Dubai. Karen has transformed women from Liza Doolittle into outstanding fair ladies, and men into Professor Higgins. She started out as a shy little girl who certainly walked through the doors that opened before her. Her positive and creative attitude continues to give her hope to follow her dreams. A dynamic self- empowering and inspirational woman, I know Karen will achieve all that she sets out to accomplish...

“In 2012, I became the Chief Stylist for the Style Institute, based in Long Beach, California. This has meant numerous trips to Long Beach... To date my systems and products are in over 70 countries.” “I am now entering my 31st year in business and I’ve seen the internet become the biggest advantage to my business; – up until the internet, my business was based on word of mouth and maybe it still is but the internet adds another element for my business. It’s easier for people to find out about me...” When people meet Karen at conferences they are so awe struck that they make sure they invite her to come and speak in their countries. “Once I go to the country, those people spread the word and have me come back and do more training.”

n copyright Lorraine Leslie – Women with Vision Magazine 2014/15 www.womenwithvision.ca

The Image of Your Soul By Deborah Johnson Our media driven society has conditioned us to focus primarily on our physical attributes. We spend hours and hundreds of dollars, sometimes thousands, to make sure our ‘package’ is pretty. When we don a new outfit or make a change to our appearance in some way we feel rejuvenated. We may stand a little taller, walk a little more confidently and present ourselves more openly when we feel good about ourselves. In the business world our image defines how we wish others to perceive us. Depending on how successfully we convey our message to others, directly defines the degree of success or lack thereof that we experience. Our physical appearance and the image we present of what and who we are to the world is only the window dressing. The true essence of each and every one of us lies in our soul and in our spirit. Every living thing possesses an energy field unique unto themselves and emits a vibrational rate outward to others which is generated by their energy field. Just as no two people are alike, no two energy fields and vibrations will ever be the same. It is this vibration we subconsciously generate to those around us that is our true image. Our physical attributes and the conscious image we present to the world as to who and what we are, is only a representation of the true us. What vibrational message are you sending out? How do others subconsciously perceive you? If you are content in yourself and doing something you love, your vibration will be strong and positive. You will attract others to you. If however you are discontent with some area of your life, even though you may try to mask it, others will subconsciously sense your internal discord and although they may not know the reason, will feel uncomfortable dealing with you. For you it causes internal conflict as you consciously try to project how you wish others to view you, yet subconsciously you are sending a totally different message.

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I dealt with a woman recently who couldn’t understand why her business was faltering. She was doing all the right things with her marketing, advertising, customer service, etc. yet clients were not returning. I asked her if she actually liked what she was doing. She seemed surprised by the question but confided that initially she loved her work but over the last year had become resentful of it. She longed for something more challenging but wasn’t in the position to make that change. Although she consciously was incredibly personable when dealing with her clients, her subconscious spirit and soul was literally screaming ‘I can’t stand what I’m doing and don’t want to be here.” Her clients were subconsciously sensing her emotions and although not sure why, they just knew they felt uncomfortable enough they did not want to return. Create your image from your Soul outward first and foremost. If you are content within and with what you are doing and where you are headed, your image will project to others as you truly want it to. Then add the window dressing image with appearance, marketing etc. If all are in harmony, success will flow to you. n Deborah Johnson Clairvoyant, Medium, Author, Speaker www.deborah-johnson.net deborah@deborahjohnson.ca

DESTINATIONS ...Explore the world around you

72 Photography courtesy of Jane Tilley

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Photography courtesy of Bill Rogers

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Life Numbers NUMBER REVEALS CLUES ABOUT YOUR IMAGE By Paola Gucciardi Although the expression, “Never judge a book by its cover”, reminds us not to prejudge, it is natural to form opinions on first impressions. To understand the image you project, learn your Personality number. It offers clues as to how others see you upon meeting you for the first time. Be conscious of all your communications, body language, attire and actions. Remember, whether in your personal or business life, you only have one chance the make a great first impression!

To Calculate...Add the numerical values of the consonants in your full name Note: “Y” is a consonant if syllable has another vowel (ex. Kay)

Photography courtesy of Bill Rogers

Example:

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1 A L S A K A Y H U D 2 1 3 5 6 1 5 4 9 1 3 1 + 3 + 5 + 6 + 1 + 5 + 4 + 9 + 1 = 35 4 4 + 9 + 9 = 22; 2+2=4 Personality

1. Write your full name as it appears on your birth certificate 2. Using the chart below, record the numerical value of each consonant 3. Subtotal the value of your first, middle and last name until sum is reduced to a single digit 4. Add the subtotals until the sum is reduced to a single digit

Q R

Personality 1 It’s hard to hide your strong, determined and confident personality. You project a competitive leadership quality and the need to succeed in all that you do. Beware that you may come across as intimidating and aggressive.

Personality 4 Others recognize your conservative, practical, strategic and methodical approach to life. Working hard, financial security, living with a plan and caring for loved ones are some of your strongest attributes. Subsequently, people trust your judgment.

Personality 2 You exude a gently, friendly and cooperative presence. People are drawn to your sensitive and understanding nature and often divulge their personal life stories. To prevent feeling drained, don’t give too much of yourself.

Personality 5 Your charisma and adventurous nature attract others to you like a magnet. Your impulsiveness and inner restlessness often cause you to be overindulgent (shopping, food, alcohol, drugs, sex). To harness your full potential, use discipline.

Personality 3 People are drawn to your charming personality, witty sense of humour and stylish flair. Self expression is the name of your game. You inspire others whether you are performing, speaking, writing and/or decorating.

Personality 6 Compassionate, generous and loving is how others see you. Your strong desire to help others causes people to unload their burdens. Create healthy boundaries by learning to say “no” without feeling guilty.

Personality 7 You have an introspective and serious demeanour which others interpret as aloof, mysterious and different. Consequently, people find it difficult to get to know you. Balance your strong desire for solitude with the pleasures of life. Personality 8 Success and strong leadership are your cornerstones. People notice your powerful personality and determination to succeed. Your confidence and enthusiasm often attract people with resources. Personality 9 People immediately recognize your compassion for humanity and commitment to positively impact the world. They are drawn to your calm, sensitive and charismatic nature. n Paola Gucciardi, Numerologist www.lifenumbers.ca

Last Word The path before you holds the unknown, Step into your futureâ&#x20AC;Ś stone by stone. Emerald boughs open to the glory of day, A golden light shows passage and the way. Arches protect you like arms from above, Wrapping you with absolute peace and love. Step through the portal with faith in your heart, Know that this image will never part. Take the spirit and walk hand in hand, Today is your future which will be grand.

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ÂŠ Elena Schweitzer | Dreamstime.com

By Lorraine Leslie