I have just finished a most incredible book. It is not very often I get really "excited" about a book, but this one really got me stoked.
Quite a few months ago my friend Jon Tupper emailed a copy of Doug Griffiths "13 Ways to Kill Your Community" speech. I was elated to know that there are people that still exist that are truly passionate about community. I felt like someone finally "got it" when it comes to making a community better.
For those that are not aware, 13 Ways was co-written by Wainwright MLA Doug Griffiths and newsman Kelly Clemmer. Together they have written a community changing manual that I think all town councils in Alberta NEED TO READ.
As I read through the book my mind continually drifted to my parents community. They live in the Municipality of the Crowsnest Pass. It is a delightful group of towns in south western Alberta close to the BC border. A real gem of a place, I can't help but look forward to each and every visit. Unlike Canmore or Banff, the Crowsnest Pass is full of history and a hike starts at your front door. They have great little shops and very few box type stores. No matter where you go the scenery is breathtaking and there is no shortage of quaint coffee shops. There are all sorts of tours available in the summer at VERY reasonable prices.
The reason my thoughts would continually land here while reading this book is that as a community they have caused death to their community through negative attitudes. They have so much potential to turn themselves into a wonderful place but I strongly feel that the fear of turning into another "Canmore" prevents them from being successful.
To briefly sum up the book here are the 13 ways in a nut shell that you can kill your community.
1. Don't Have Quality Water
2. Don't Attract Business
3. Ignore your Youth
4. Deceive Yourself About Your Real Needs or Values
5. Shop Elsewhere
6. Don't Paint
7. Don't Cooperate
8. Live in the Past
9. Ignore Your Seniors
10. Reject Everything New
11. Ignore Outsiders
12. Become Complacent
13. Don't Take Responsibility
13 Ways to Kill your Community is on Facebook and Twitter. Doug Griffiths travels all over Alberta giving his 13 Way speech. Every way you can kill your community stems from a negative attitude. The whole premise of the book revolves around a community attitude change.
Something we all can use I think. No matter how great your think your community is, there are always ways to make it better. There will always be people that need an attitude change. The beginning of that attitude change begins with you.
If I had to highlight 1 specific community that has ROCKED the positive attitude it would for sure be Fort McMurray. I have NEVER in my whole life met a group of people that work so hard to highlight all of the great things that there community has. It doesn't take long for negativity to bog you down. Think about living in a place that all you ever hear is bashing from outside communities.... only the negative ever makes the news outside of that community.... that's what community members deal with every day in Fort McMurray. I love reading blogs, tweets, facebook updates about Fort McMurray because they are always full of pride and community spirit. Way to go!!! If you want a top notch example of community pride you need to make the trek up north and experience the "Energy" that is Fort McMurray.
I picked up my copy of 13 Ways at Sunworks in downtown Red Deer. I think I'm going to go buy a bunch and mail them to a few mayor and councils of communities that need some help. And why not?? We all want to be proud to call our place of residence home.
Now go get your copy!!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Monday, November 15, 2010
Do You Feel Safe?
We have had an interesting day. After school my daughter got a call from her friend. Clearly distraught, she told my daughter that someone had broken into her house and they were still there. After calming her down and staying on the phone until her mother arrived we called 911. (we couldn't confirm whether or not the mother had already called).
After having a sick day at home I quickly got some jeans on and took my daughter to be with her friend while the RCMP investigated. As I listened to interviews being conducted and neighbors asking what happened it was interesting to me that even in a real emergency situation, both my daughters friend and her older brother did not think or know to call 911 FIRST before calling the parents.
After the investigation was finished we brought the friend over to our house to spend the night. The little girls dad was grateful that her daughter could go somewhere to take her mind off of what has just happened.
While chatting with one of the officers , the officer said something that really stuck with me. He said that although it sucks that there were things stolen out of the house, the worst part is that this family no longer feels safe in a place that is supposed to be safe.
When you think about where you live.. the street... your living room... maybe even your bedroom... it is a place that is supposed to be your haven.. your place of rest from the outside world. When that place has been invaded.. the trust you have in your home to keep you safe... how do you get that back? Can this family ever have peace again or are they always going to wonder if something worse is going to happen?
As my daughter and I were chatting on the way home we both concluded that the fear that her friend must have felt walking into a house that still had the thief inside would be more than terrifying. It really makes me think about my own personal safety. I have to remind myself that something like this is always possible but that I cannot and will not live in fear.
If you or someone you know is interested in crime prevention strategies both for your home and neighborhood there are a few resources out there that can help. There is Neighborhood Watch in Red Deer. Also a friend of mine (Steve) does security consulting. You can visit his website at www.targetcrime.ca.
After having a sick day at home I quickly got some jeans on and took my daughter to be with her friend while the RCMP investigated. As I listened to interviews being conducted and neighbors asking what happened it was interesting to me that even in a real emergency situation, both my daughters friend and her older brother did not think or know to call 911 FIRST before calling the parents.
After the investigation was finished we brought the friend over to our house to spend the night. The little girls dad was grateful that her daughter could go somewhere to take her mind off of what has just happened.
While chatting with one of the officers , the officer said something that really stuck with me. He said that although it sucks that there were things stolen out of the house, the worst part is that this family no longer feels safe in a place that is supposed to be safe.
When you think about where you live.. the street... your living room... maybe even your bedroom... it is a place that is supposed to be your haven.. your place of rest from the outside world. When that place has been invaded.. the trust you have in your home to keep you safe... how do you get that back? Can this family ever have peace again or are they always going to wonder if something worse is going to happen?
As my daughter and I were chatting on the way home we both concluded that the fear that her friend must have felt walking into a house that still had the thief inside would be more than terrifying. It really makes me think about my own personal safety. I have to remind myself that something like this is always possible but that I cannot and will not live in fear.
If you or someone you know is interested in crime prevention strategies both for your home and neighborhood there are a few resources out there that can help. There is Neighborhood Watch in Red Deer. Also a friend of mine (Steve) does security consulting. You can visit his website at www.targetcrime.ca.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Boy vs School
I have a son. He's in elementary school. For the 3rd year in a row he has gotten a female teacher over the age of 45. I'm getting a little tired of older, female teachers that want their students to sit down, be quiet and read their text books. In grade 2 my son's teacher suggested that I take my son to the doctors so perhaps the doctor could give him something to help in focus in her class. WHAT!?!!
My son is your average 9 year old boy. He has lots of energy and most of the time you have to tell him more than once to do anything. He can be a little scatter brained at times. He is very loving, has wonderful manners and is more creative than most other kids I know. He loves science, building lego, star wars and playing outside with his friends. He finds school boring. I feel like everyday he hates school a little more.
I just finished a book called "The Power of Focus" By Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen & Les Hewitt. In Chapter 2 they talk about the need for focus and on page 34 it reads " Top performers spend very little time on their weaknesses. Many of our school systems could learn from this. Often, children are told to focus on their weaker subjects and not spend so much time on the ones they do well in. The rationale is to develop a broad level of competency in many subjects instead of focusing on a few. WRONG! As business coach Dan Sullivan says "If you spend too much time working on your weaknesses, all you end up with is a lot of strong weaknesses!" This does not give you a competitive edge in the marketplace or position you to be wealthy. It just keeps you average. In fact, it's an absolute insult to your integrity to major in minor things". Well said.
I have a friend Kathy who made the decision to pull her 2 boys out of public school and home school them. Her reason is that she believes that each of her boys have talents and abilities and that will take them down a road to success. By making them study subjects they have no interest in and are not going to take them down a career path based on their strengths that they are wasting their time and their sons talents. Time that could instead be spent developing those better suited skills.
Now I have to say that I do think it's important to learn a little about a lot of different areas. How will you know what you are interested in if you don't?? How will you know about the world and our history? I am confident that based on my sons personality type, his interests and talents, that being a doctor or engineer isn't in the cards for him. I believe he will end up in emergency services or perhaps a trade. Both honorable professions.
I get angry every time I think about my son and school. I'm not at the stage yet that I would entertain the idea of home schooling, but I strongly believe that we are raising an entire generation of kids that are being let down by a "girl focused" education system and no matter how loud we scream, no body is listening.
A friend of mine commented this past week that there is a certain personality type that exists in our schools. These kids (boys and girls)have lots of energy and are the future movers, shakers and visionaries and adults are afraid of them. Instead of nurturing them, we are medicating them at a staggering rate. All to get them to be quiet. WOW!
I just want the best for my son. I want to know that when he goes to school that he is being encouraged, positively reinforced and appreciated for what he brings to his class and school community. Is that really too much to ask?
My son is your average 9 year old boy. He has lots of energy and most of the time you have to tell him more than once to do anything. He can be a little scatter brained at times. He is very loving, has wonderful manners and is more creative than most other kids I know. He loves science, building lego, star wars and playing outside with his friends. He finds school boring. I feel like everyday he hates school a little more.
I just finished a book called "The Power of Focus" By Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen & Les Hewitt. In Chapter 2 they talk about the need for focus and on page 34 it reads " Top performers spend very little time on their weaknesses. Many of our school systems could learn from this. Often, children are told to focus on their weaker subjects and not spend so much time on the ones they do well in. The rationale is to develop a broad level of competency in many subjects instead of focusing on a few. WRONG! As business coach Dan Sullivan says "If you spend too much time working on your weaknesses, all you end up with is a lot of strong weaknesses!" This does not give you a competitive edge in the marketplace or position you to be wealthy. It just keeps you average. In fact, it's an absolute insult to your integrity to major in minor things". Well said.
I have a friend Kathy who made the decision to pull her 2 boys out of public school and home school them. Her reason is that she believes that each of her boys have talents and abilities and that will take them down a road to success. By making them study subjects they have no interest in and are not going to take them down a career path based on their strengths that they are wasting their time and their sons talents. Time that could instead be spent developing those better suited skills.
Now I have to say that I do think it's important to learn a little about a lot of different areas. How will you know what you are interested in if you don't?? How will you know about the world and our history? I am confident that based on my sons personality type, his interests and talents, that being a doctor or engineer isn't in the cards for him. I believe he will end up in emergency services or perhaps a trade. Both honorable professions.
I get angry every time I think about my son and school. I'm not at the stage yet that I would entertain the idea of home schooling, but I strongly believe that we are raising an entire generation of kids that are being let down by a "girl focused" education system and no matter how loud we scream, no body is listening.
A friend of mine commented this past week that there is a certain personality type that exists in our schools. These kids (boys and girls)have lots of energy and are the future movers, shakers and visionaries and adults are afraid of them. Instead of nurturing them, we are medicating them at a staggering rate. All to get them to be quiet. WOW!
I just want the best for my son. I want to know that when he goes to school that he is being encouraged, positively reinforced and appreciated for what he brings to his class and school community. Is that really too much to ask?
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Crossing Over
It's happened... I think I am finally an adult. Shocking really.I've been married for over 10 years, have 2 kids and a house and NOW IT FINALLY HAPPENS. In the last few months or so I have started to notice certain thought patterns changing and my taste buds too. Things I have despised for over 30 years I suddenly like.
In my 20's I married and had kids. I sat around boardroom tables with people old enough to be my parents and felt the need to fight to be on those boards. I faced being judged based on my age and appearance and felt like a little kid all the time. I'm still the youngest at most meetings and events but now I feel like I have earned the right to be there.
Now I wonder are my thought patterns changing because of my age? Or perhaps that my pre teen daughter has driven me to the point of near insanity since starting middle school? The drama has been unreal and I do sympathize with my daughter that what she faces everyday at school is a lot harder than what I faced in school. But seriously, I have grey hair coming in by the dozens and have found wrinkles ....can you believe it WRINKLES!!!
This past weekend I attended a scrap booking retreat south of Delburne with a bunch of ladies I was introduced to by my ant....(and yes that is the correct spelling for my fathers' sister). So in the group you have "The Young and the Restless" and "The Blood Sisters" . Both groups are made up of mostly 45+ year old women (some closer to 60 ) . About 10 % of us still get periods. You get the picture. They are a wonderful group of ladies. It's very interesting to sit and listen to them chat about their lives and the lives of their families. Not in a gossipy type of way but more of a sharing, learning and confiding kind of way.
There really is so much to learn from an older generation. That is not one of my new "adult" thoughts. I firmly believe that if you want to appreciate what have now, you need to hear about the past and the kinds of challenges and hardships our grandparents and great aunts and uncles had to endure.
Back to my new found "adulthood". So to give you some examples of my crossing over.... For the last several years I have always drank coffee and Bailey's on Saturday mornings. A great ritual I think.. sadly, I could really care less about the Bailey's anymore. Oh, and my favourite coffee of all time (Hylander Grogg).... ya, not so much. It's OK for a treat but I have 3 bags of it in my closet and haven't touched it since the hubby has been working. I now more prefer my Pike Place Roast from Starbucks.
Another example? Well, I now LOVE sauerkraut. Never used to, but whenever I have a smokey (which isn't very often) it is now mandatory along with lots of mustard.
And those "adult" thoughts well....I've learned that if getting older means growing up... then perhaps I'm not interested. Although I will always force healthy food on my kids and refuse to buy them video games, I still think that my tattoos are pretty cool and nothing is better than hanging out with a bunch of teenagers. They keep me young. Oh, and even though my mother said that someday I would grow up and have better taste in music, I still love all the music that our local "Kraze" station has to offer. Sorry mom.
Until next time..... the newest adult on the block.
In my 20's I married and had kids. I sat around boardroom tables with people old enough to be my parents and felt the need to fight to be on those boards. I faced being judged based on my age and appearance and felt like a little kid all the time. I'm still the youngest at most meetings and events but now I feel like I have earned the right to be there.
Now I wonder are my thought patterns changing because of my age? Or perhaps that my pre teen daughter has driven me to the point of near insanity since starting middle school? The drama has been unreal and I do sympathize with my daughter that what she faces everyday at school is a lot harder than what I faced in school. But seriously, I have grey hair coming in by the dozens and have found wrinkles ....can you believe it WRINKLES!!!
This past weekend I attended a scrap booking retreat south of Delburne with a bunch of ladies I was introduced to by my ant....(and yes that is the correct spelling for my fathers' sister). So in the group you have "The Young and the Restless" and "The Blood Sisters" . Both groups are made up of mostly 45+ year old women (some closer to 60 ) . About 10 % of us still get periods. You get the picture. They are a wonderful group of ladies. It's very interesting to sit and listen to them chat about their lives and the lives of their families. Not in a gossipy type of way but more of a sharing, learning and confiding kind of way.
There really is so much to learn from an older generation. That is not one of my new "adult" thoughts. I firmly believe that if you want to appreciate what have now, you need to hear about the past and the kinds of challenges and hardships our grandparents and great aunts and uncles had to endure.
Back to my new found "adulthood". So to give you some examples of my crossing over.... For the last several years I have always drank coffee and Bailey's on Saturday mornings. A great ritual I think.. sadly, I could really care less about the Bailey's anymore. Oh, and my favourite coffee of all time (Hylander Grogg).... ya, not so much. It's OK for a treat but I have 3 bags of it in my closet and haven't touched it since the hubby has been working. I now more prefer my Pike Place Roast from Starbucks.
Another example? Well, I now LOVE sauerkraut. Never used to, but whenever I have a smokey (which isn't very often) it is now mandatory along with lots of mustard.
And those "adult" thoughts well....I've learned that if getting older means growing up... then perhaps I'm not interested. Although I will always force healthy food on my kids and refuse to buy them video games, I still think that my tattoos are pretty cool and nothing is better than hanging out with a bunch of teenagers. They keep me young. Oh, and even though my mother said that someday I would grow up and have better taste in music, I still love all the music that our local "Kraze" station has to offer. Sorry mom.
Until next time..... the newest adult on the block.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
She Has a Name
I have just got home from a reading of local author and play write Andrew Kooman's play "She Has a Name". (http://www.andrewkooman.com/)
As I sat through the first act of the play that was read by 4 individuals, trying to choke back the tears that came with the realization that human life is not sacred and that our "civilized society" has a dirty secret as big or bigger than the drug trade. It's called Human Trafficking.
*There are 27 million slaves worldwide. Experts estimate nearly 1 million people are trafficked in the sex trade every year. Human trafficking is the fastest growing criminal trade second only to the illegal sale of drugs with an estimated annual profit of 31 billion US dollars.
I sit in my seat thinking about my own kids who are around 10 years old, I am hearing these actors speak of children who's parents sell them to make a few bucks. They go from vibrant, smart kids who love school and have great dreams to living in brothels having sex with dozens of men every day. Many have not even hit puberty yet. As a mother, this rips my heart out. I understand why people don't like to talk about these things. So gruesome and horrid...(it makes me sick to my stomach).
We live in our cities in Canada, enjoying a great life and yet right under our noses (even in Red Deer) there are girls who are working... night after night.. day after day.... with no rights, no identity .... Don't kid yourself and think it's not happening. It is. There are 2 if not more brothels in Red Deer... the ladies that work there didn't apply for a job.
I get up to leave the reading and there's a lump in my throat.. I can't speak for fear of crying.. The mood after is sobering... A friend of mine has painted a picture for this play. It has a young girls face and beside it.. a bar code ... she is nothing more than "number 18". No name, no family to identify with.... just a piece of property.
I am grateful to know that there are local agencies that are dedicated to raising awareness and helping victims of trafficking. The Alberta Coalition on Human Trafficking (http://www.actalberta.org/) operates a safe house for victims of human trafficking and Raise Their Voice (http://www.raisetheirvoice.com/) is raising awareness in central Alberta. I challenge you to check out their websites and just ponder for a few minutes what is really going on in our world. I sit in my chair in front of my computer and wonder what to do with this information I now have. I'm so glad I went tonight but also wish I hadn't..... I just want to hug my kids a little tighter and thank God for them.
More needs to be done. I found out this evening at the reading that The Body Shop is collecting signatures to petition the Canadian Government in implementing strict anti trafficking policies and legislation and dedicate more resources to victims of human trafficking. You can sign their petition at www.thebodyshop.com/_en/_ww/values-campaigns/trafficking.aspx . So far they have 500,000 signatures and have a goal of 1 million before they present the petition to the government of Canada.
She Has a Name is looking for some financial assistance to bring this urgent and important message to the stage. If you are able to contribute in any way visit http://www.raisetheirvoice.com/
The World Premiere and Tour of "She Has a Name" starts the end of February in Calgary and early March in Red Deer.
This is one play you won't want to miss. Although a hard pill to swallow, you will truly be touched and amazed at the talent and message that has gone into this script.
Thank You Andrew for giving a voice to those with no name.
(* Taken from She Has a Name promo material)
As I sat through the first act of the play that was read by 4 individuals, trying to choke back the tears that came with the realization that human life is not sacred and that our "civilized society" has a dirty secret as big or bigger than the drug trade. It's called Human Trafficking.
*There are 27 million slaves worldwide. Experts estimate nearly 1 million people are trafficked in the sex trade every year. Human trafficking is the fastest growing criminal trade second only to the illegal sale of drugs with an estimated annual profit of 31 billion US dollars.
I sit in my seat thinking about my own kids who are around 10 years old, I am hearing these actors speak of children who's parents sell them to make a few bucks. They go from vibrant, smart kids who love school and have great dreams to living in brothels having sex with dozens of men every day. Many have not even hit puberty yet. As a mother, this rips my heart out. I understand why people don't like to talk about these things. So gruesome and horrid...(it makes me sick to my stomach).
We live in our cities in Canada, enjoying a great life and yet right under our noses (even in Red Deer) there are girls who are working... night after night.. day after day.... with no rights, no identity .... Don't kid yourself and think it's not happening. It is. There are 2 if not more brothels in Red Deer... the ladies that work there didn't apply for a job.
I get up to leave the reading and there's a lump in my throat.. I can't speak for fear of crying.. The mood after is sobering... A friend of mine has painted a picture for this play. It has a young girls face and beside it.. a bar code ... she is nothing more than "number 18". No name, no family to identify with.... just a piece of property.
I am grateful to know that there are local agencies that are dedicated to raising awareness and helping victims of trafficking. The Alberta Coalition on Human Trafficking (http://www.actalberta.org/) operates a safe house for victims of human trafficking and Raise Their Voice (http://www.raisetheirvoice.com/) is raising awareness in central Alberta. I challenge you to check out their websites and just ponder for a few minutes what is really going on in our world. I sit in my chair in front of my computer and wonder what to do with this information I now have. I'm so glad I went tonight but also wish I hadn't..... I just want to hug my kids a little tighter and thank God for them.
More needs to be done. I found out this evening at the reading that The Body Shop is collecting signatures to petition the Canadian Government in implementing strict anti trafficking policies and legislation and dedicate more resources to victims of human trafficking. You can sign their petition at www.thebodyshop.com/_en/_ww/values-campaigns/trafficking.aspx . So far they have 500,000 signatures and have a goal of 1 million before they present the petition to the government of Canada.
She Has a Name is looking for some financial assistance to bring this urgent and important message to the stage. If you are able to contribute in any way visit http://www.raisetheirvoice.com/
The World Premiere and Tour of "She Has a Name" starts the end of February in Calgary and early March in Red Deer.
This is one play you won't want to miss. Although a hard pill to swallow, you will truly be touched and amazed at the talent and message that has gone into this script.
Thank You Andrew for giving a voice to those with no name.
(* Taken from She Has a Name promo material)
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Elections Around Alberta
Things are really heating up on the election front...and not just in Red Deer. Last night I was the moderator for the Election Forum in Penhold. (Footage from the event can be found at www.rdtv.ca and on You tube. Search Pehold Forum )
For those of you readers NOT from central Alberta, Penhold is 14 km south west of Red Deer. As I look at the issues facing Penhold I draw a comparison with some if the same issues that voters in Wood Buffalo are facing. Both have recently finished major building projects. Penhold got a new multiplex and Fort McMurray a new recreation facility (MacDonald Island Park). Both facilities are huge assets to their communities and both brought some debt with with them.
I love politics. I love seeing passionate people wanting to make a difference in their communities. I believe that regardless of platform, candidates want to make things better for themselves and others. This round of elections are bitter sweet for me. Several years ago I had made the decision to run in Wood Buffalo in this election. We had planned on staying in Wood Buffalo for 5 more years.
Plans changed and we relocated to Red Deer. Although I am not running in this election, I still keep tabs on what is going on back home (Fort McMurray) and am excited to see the new faces vying for a place on council. I am still a big supporter of current mayor Melissa Blake (my kids and I helped with her last campaign) and am excited to see if my dear friend Russell Thomas is going to be elected..
Back in Red Deer things are getting interesting. There are 18 candidates running for 8 spots on council. Personally I think a big shake up is needed. Red Deer is at a critical point in it's growth and if not managed properly could be disastrous for our well being in the long term. Sure there are a couple of existing councillors that I am voting for, the ones that are forward thinking visionaries, but I am also voting for quite a few newbies too. Being new isn't bad. Being new means you have great ideas, energy, new ways of doing things and an untainted perspective on how things can and should be done. Good Luck with your campaigns!
I would like to dedicate this blog entry to a couple of different groups. First to all the new candidates that have put their names forward both in Central Alberta and Wood Buffalo and the second to two of my faithful readers.... My father in law Harry Anthony and friend Marlene Lane. Both residents of Fort McMurray.
Now get out there and VOTE!!!
For those of you readers NOT from central Alberta, Penhold is 14 km south west of Red Deer. As I look at the issues facing Penhold I draw a comparison with some if the same issues that voters in Wood Buffalo are facing. Both have recently finished major building projects. Penhold got a new multiplex and Fort McMurray a new recreation facility (MacDonald Island Park). Both facilities are huge assets to their communities and both brought some debt with with them.
I love politics. I love seeing passionate people wanting to make a difference in their communities. I believe that regardless of platform, candidates want to make things better for themselves and others. This round of elections are bitter sweet for me. Several years ago I had made the decision to run in Wood Buffalo in this election. We had planned on staying in Wood Buffalo for 5 more years.
Plans changed and we relocated to Red Deer. Although I am not running in this election, I still keep tabs on what is going on back home (Fort McMurray) and am excited to see the new faces vying for a place on council. I am still a big supporter of current mayor Melissa Blake (my kids and I helped with her last campaign) and am excited to see if my dear friend Russell Thomas is going to be elected..
Back in Red Deer things are getting interesting. There are 18 candidates running for 8 spots on council. Personally I think a big shake up is needed. Red Deer is at a critical point in it's growth and if not managed properly could be disastrous for our well being in the long term. Sure there are a couple of existing councillors that I am voting for, the ones that are forward thinking visionaries, but I am also voting for quite a few newbies too. Being new isn't bad. Being new means you have great ideas, energy, new ways of doing things and an untainted perspective on how things can and should be done. Good Luck with your campaigns!
I would like to dedicate this blog entry to a couple of different groups. First to all the new candidates that have put their names forward both in Central Alberta and Wood Buffalo and the second to two of my faithful readers.... My father in law Harry Anthony and friend Marlene Lane. Both residents of Fort McMurray.
Now get out there and VOTE!!!
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Kitchen Table Talks
Last night I had the opportunity to work with ReThink Red Deer (http://www.rethinkreddeer.ca/) in coordinating and facilitating the first ever "Kitchen Table Talks" Election Forum.
This was no regular candidates forum. Instead of the usual panel / debate, yes and no questioning that is typical of an election forum ReThink Red Deer came up with a new and innovative way to engage citizens and candidates.
I met with Lorne Daniel several weeks ago to figure out what this event might look like and for a first time I must say I was pretty impressed at the outcome of the evening. Although I have seen this format used for other purposes I have never seen it used in this capacity. It was an amazing way for candidates to really hear what people think. The Advocate did a great piece on the event. The link is posted above....
Regardless of the topic that each table had to discuss, I noticed that the common thread that each facilitator shared at the end of the evening was that there is a strong need to come up with new and innovative ways to engage the public. Not just because it's part of policy but because citizens need to be engaged ... not just sometime.. but ALL THE TIME. Open houses are not effective anymore. I know it's cliche to say but people are too busy and evenings are not good for anyone with a family.
It was great to be apart of an "innovative" way to engage people of all ages in who they should elect for Red Deer's next council. Facilitation is my passion so to be apart of something like this was a no brainer... mix in my love of politics and the political process I was happier than a pig in..... well you know. Not only did I get to facilitate, I got to meet some amazing voters and candidates and that has helped me to figure out who I will vote for and who I will NOT be voting for. So far I have settled on 5 candidates that I am confident on voting for but still need to do a little more research to get 3 more.
A big thanks to everyone that participated in Election ReThink and I look forward to seeing you all on Oct. 18.
This was no regular candidates forum. Instead of the usual panel / debate, yes and no questioning that is typical of an election forum ReThink Red Deer came up with a new and innovative way to engage citizens and candidates.
I met with Lorne Daniel several weeks ago to figure out what this event might look like and for a first time I must say I was pretty impressed at the outcome of the evening. Although I have seen this format used for other purposes I have never seen it used in this capacity. It was an amazing way for candidates to really hear what people think. The Advocate did a great piece on the event. The link is posted above....
Regardless of the topic that each table had to discuss, I noticed that the common thread that each facilitator shared at the end of the evening was that there is a strong need to come up with new and innovative ways to engage the public. Not just because it's part of policy but because citizens need to be engaged ... not just sometime.. but ALL THE TIME. Open houses are not effective anymore. I know it's cliche to say but people are too busy and evenings are not good for anyone with a family.
It was great to be apart of an "innovative" way to engage people of all ages in who they should elect for Red Deer's next council. Facilitation is my passion so to be apart of something like this was a no brainer... mix in my love of politics and the political process I was happier than a pig in..... well you know. Not only did I get to facilitate, I got to meet some amazing voters and candidates and that has helped me to figure out who I will vote for and who I will NOT be voting for. So far I have settled on 5 candidates that I am confident on voting for but still need to do a little more research to get 3 more.
A big thanks to everyone that participated in Election ReThink and I look forward to seeing you all on Oct. 18.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Voter Turnout
Elections are just over a month away. I love fall elections... it's interesting to see the new faces who are running first time campaigns. They tend to be the ones you see out and about.
One candidate I spoke with mentioned that we need to increase voter turnout. I couldn't agree more. With a voter turnout rate of 22% it is a clear indication to me that what has worked in the past regarding voting and campaigns ISN'T WORKING ANYMORE.
The perception is that the larger the signage the higher your votes will be. Not the case. We can all agree that engagement is an issue. We need the votes... but the voters can't be bothered. Why is that?? Well, I have a pretty good idea why. We are not relating or communicating in a way that is conducive to a younger generational response. I commend those that week after week are at the public market. But you are only being exposed to a small amount of our population.
Here's a thought, If you want higher voter turn out.... and you WANT a younger demographic taking interest in municipal politics then perhaps you need to engage in a younger way. Here are a few ways you can do that.
Location, Location, Location
Ok I sounded like a realtor for a minute there. But seriously. Where does the 18-30 year olds hang out? Where do teens hang out?? The mall, movies, pubs, bars, high schools, RDC???. Perhaps these are not usual places to campaign but if you want to influence a generation you need to be and go where they are.
What do you wear?
Here's a little secret... if you "dress" better than teens and young adults, they think that you think you are better than them. If you choose to go to these non traditional venues then perhaps jeans and a hoodie would be more fitting. I ran a youth centre in Fort McMurray and always dressed the same as the kids did. It would often be a surprise to the business folk if they asked for the manager or executive director... but I didn't care. My role was to support teens and to do that I had to dress and talk at their level.
Speaking of talk... young people want plain English. "How's it goin'?" Talk TO them not AT them. Don't ask them what they think the issues are.. ask them"What pisses you off about our city?" or "What do you love about living here?" Keep it casual and real. Young people can smell bull shit a mile away.
Social Media
This is the way that our younger generation communicates. Do you have a Facebook page?? Great if you do and if you don't ... well that's sad for you. Things like Facebook are so critical in youth engagement. Keep in mind that if you do not interact with your "friends" regularly then you really are wasting every ones time. Twitter is great for getting your message out. It tends to be a little bit of an older demographic that uses twitter (more over the age of 25) but it's instant and a great way to keep people engaged with your campaign. You Tube is another great tool. Creating short videos and sharing them on your Facebook, twitter or website is a great way to get your message out.
Campaign Team
Just one thought here. How many young people do you have as part of your campaign team? A campaign needs to be balanced. Without a few young people, you will quickly get tunnel vision. You need that younger perspective.
Be Available
If you do not currently welcome open conversation anytime someone has a question for you then you have not only lost their vote but in a young persons mind they are going to say forget this voting thing. Plain and simple
So to wrap this all up. I wanted to provide you with some dates and locations of forums and other means to connect with our candidates. Take advantage of these candidates and call or email them your questions or concerns. How they respond will be a good indication of their commitment to their jobs.
A great website to research the different candidates http://www.electionforum.ca/
There will be an Election Forum put on by the Red Deer Chamber of Commerce
Oct 7 at The Red Deer Lodge from 7-9
http://www.reddeerchamber.com/ and click on events
ReThink Red Deer is hosting Election ReThink at RDC on Sept. 28 from 6:30 - 9.
"Kitchen Table Talks" are designed to go beyond the one sentence or yes or no answers to a more in depth understanding of election issues.
www.rethinkreddeer.ca/events for all the details.
One candidate I spoke with mentioned that we need to increase voter turnout. I couldn't agree more. With a voter turnout rate of 22% it is a clear indication to me that what has worked in the past regarding voting and campaigns ISN'T WORKING ANYMORE.
The perception is that the larger the signage the higher your votes will be. Not the case. We can all agree that engagement is an issue. We need the votes... but the voters can't be bothered. Why is that?? Well, I have a pretty good idea why. We are not relating or communicating in a way that is conducive to a younger generational response. I commend those that week after week are at the public market. But you are only being exposed to a small amount of our population.
Here's a thought, If you want higher voter turn out.... and you WANT a younger demographic taking interest in municipal politics then perhaps you need to engage in a younger way. Here are a few ways you can do that.
Location, Location, Location
Ok I sounded like a realtor for a minute there. But seriously. Where does the 18-30 year olds hang out? Where do teens hang out?? The mall, movies, pubs, bars, high schools, RDC???. Perhaps these are not usual places to campaign but if you want to influence a generation you need to be and go where they are.
What do you wear?
Here's a little secret... if you "dress" better than teens and young adults, they think that you think you are better than them. If you choose to go to these non traditional venues then perhaps jeans and a hoodie would be more fitting. I ran a youth centre in Fort McMurray and always dressed the same as the kids did. It would often be a surprise to the business folk if they asked for the manager or executive director... but I didn't care. My role was to support teens and to do that I had to dress and talk at their level.
Speaking of talk... young people want plain English. "How's it goin'?" Talk TO them not AT them. Don't ask them what they think the issues are.. ask them"What pisses you off about our city?" or "What do you love about living here?" Keep it casual and real. Young people can smell bull shit a mile away.
Social Media
This is the way that our younger generation communicates. Do you have a Facebook page?? Great if you do and if you don't ... well that's sad for you. Things like Facebook are so critical in youth engagement. Keep in mind that if you do not interact with your "friends" regularly then you really are wasting every ones time. Twitter is great for getting your message out. It tends to be a little bit of an older demographic that uses twitter (more over the age of 25) but it's instant and a great way to keep people engaged with your campaign. You Tube is another great tool. Creating short videos and sharing them on your Facebook, twitter or website is a great way to get your message out.
Campaign Team
Just one thought here. How many young people do you have as part of your campaign team? A campaign needs to be balanced. Without a few young people, you will quickly get tunnel vision. You need that younger perspective.
Be Available
If you do not currently welcome open conversation anytime someone has a question for you then you have not only lost their vote but in a young persons mind they are going to say forget this voting thing. Plain and simple
So to wrap this all up. I wanted to provide you with some dates and locations of forums and other means to connect with our candidates. Take advantage of these candidates and call or email them your questions or concerns. How they respond will be a good indication of their commitment to their jobs.
A great website to research the different candidates http://www.electionforum.ca/
There will be an Election Forum put on by the Red Deer Chamber of Commerce
Oct 7 at The Red Deer Lodge from 7-9
http://www.reddeerchamber.com/ and click on events
ReThink Red Deer is hosting Election ReThink at RDC on Sept. 28 from 6:30 - 9.
"Kitchen Table Talks" are designed to go beyond the one sentence or yes or no answers to a more in depth understanding of election issues.
www.rethinkreddeer.ca/events for all the details.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Bring the 80's back
Another interesting day it has been. I got a call from my daughter this morning who was completely frantic. Someone in her middle school created a Facebook account using her name and sent out a bunch of messages to her friends telling them to meet her at her locker. She showed up to school with all her friends around her locker wondering what she wanted.
This would be fine and dandy but she does not have a Facebook account. Now I know your first though might be that "maybe she has an account and you do not know about it" .. well that is not the case in this situation. On a side note, I learned this morning that by law you need to be at least 13 to have a Facebook account. My daughter is 11 and almost the only person in her circle of friends that does not have a Facebook profile.
While dealing with this situation this morning I was listening to CBC radio with Jian Ghomeshi speaking with a lady about marketing to children. So the Facebook situation and the CBC radio show collided and I am at my computer "telling you how I really feel".
I am a kid of the 80's. We played outside every day. We had to walk to school. There were no cell phones, Internet.... as far as video games were concerned we had a sega that we played once in a blue moon. We had to eat healthy meals and got a spank if we talked back to our parents. We were not over weight and could occupy ourselves for hours with very little.
Fast forward to today. Where is this generations parents? Did you know you that you have kids? Do you know what they look at online? Why do they dictate what you buy and what you do?
We as a society have created a "monster" generation of kids that feel entitled to everything that we as adults have worked so hard for. Kids have no consequences to their actions anymore. Parents make excuses for and defend their children to avoid getting in trouble.We stand back and are baffled when our "adult" children are still living at home with maybe a job...or not.
My kids do not have cell phones. (and won't unless they can pay for them). They do not have free reign in my home. TV and computers are for the weekends only unless it involves homework. We have just gotten given to us an original xbox that my brother was going to throw away and the kids can play that.... but on the weekends only. My kids are NOT overweight. We teach them everyday the importance of face to face relationships and communication. (not through emails or texting) We keep the kids active but not so busy that they don't have time to think about their future and we are actively involved in every aspect of their lives.
Talks about sex, drug, dating and the like are regular topics at our house. ("Awkward converation mom..") Our kids share with us the "nothing" stuff about their day and when the "something" comes up.... they know we are right there to give solid advice and support.
I need to give (it is my JOB to give) my kids the tools that they need to be successful independent adults. That won't happen if I do not engage in conversation with them, give them everything they ask for, and do everything for them. Sure it's an up hill battle (what kids actually "wants" to clean their room and do chores). As my mother said to me back in the day "You'll thank me for this someday" I am now saying to my mom "Thank You".
I'm not anti media. I in fact am a self proclaimed social media junky. I love facebook and twitter and I see the value in it everyday. But it's about balance. Make the important things priority. It's never to late to change the way you do things. I am always thinking back to when I was the age of my kids to remember and to relate and do things the way they were done when the world made sense. Recently someone said to me after I shared our TV policy "Wow, your a parent of the 80's" Well, I guess I am.... I'll take that as a compliment.
This would be fine and dandy but she does not have a Facebook account. Now I know your first though might be that "maybe she has an account and you do not know about it" .. well that is not the case in this situation. On a side note, I learned this morning that by law you need to be at least 13 to have a Facebook account. My daughter is 11 and almost the only person in her circle of friends that does not have a Facebook profile.
While dealing with this situation this morning I was listening to CBC radio with Jian Ghomeshi speaking with a lady about marketing to children. So the Facebook situation and the CBC radio show collided and I am at my computer "telling you how I really feel".
I am a kid of the 80's. We played outside every day. We had to walk to school. There were no cell phones, Internet.... as far as video games were concerned we had a sega that we played once in a blue moon. We had to eat healthy meals and got a spank if we talked back to our parents. We were not over weight and could occupy ourselves for hours with very little.
Fast forward to today. Where is this generations parents? Did you know you that you have kids? Do you know what they look at online? Why do they dictate what you buy and what you do?
We as a society have created a "monster" generation of kids that feel entitled to everything that we as adults have worked so hard for. Kids have no consequences to their actions anymore. Parents make excuses for and defend their children to avoid getting in trouble.We stand back and are baffled when our "adult" children are still living at home with maybe a job...or not.
My kids do not have cell phones. (and won't unless they can pay for them). They do not have free reign in my home. TV and computers are for the weekends only unless it involves homework. We have just gotten given to us an original xbox that my brother was going to throw away and the kids can play that.... but on the weekends only. My kids are NOT overweight. We teach them everyday the importance of face to face relationships and communication. (not through emails or texting) We keep the kids active but not so busy that they don't have time to think about their future and we are actively involved in every aspect of their lives.
Talks about sex, drug, dating and the like are regular topics at our house. ("Awkward converation mom..") Our kids share with us the "nothing" stuff about their day and when the "something" comes up.... they know we are right there to give solid advice and support.
I need to give (it is my JOB to give) my kids the tools that they need to be successful independent adults. That won't happen if I do not engage in conversation with them, give them everything they ask for, and do everything for them. Sure it's an up hill battle (what kids actually "wants" to clean their room and do chores). As my mother said to me back in the day "You'll thank me for this someday" I am now saying to my mom "Thank You".
I'm not anti media. I in fact am a self proclaimed social media junky. I love facebook and twitter and I see the value in it everyday. But it's about balance. Make the important things priority. It's never to late to change the way you do things. I am always thinking back to when I was the age of my kids to remember and to relate and do things the way they were done when the world made sense. Recently someone said to me after I shared our TV policy "Wow, your a parent of the 80's" Well, I guess I am.... I'll take that as a compliment.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Why Work Sucks
A couple days ago I had lunch with some folks from a local marketing company. I had met them at a local tweetup (twitter users face to face networking get together) and it seemed that we really hit if off. Anyway, .... we met at a local coffee house for lunch and instantly I noticed the office dynamics of these two individuals.
It clearly wasn't a formal "boss / employee" relationship. Almost like 2 adults who respect the fact that they are adults... but almost like brother and sister. (They each ordered something different so they could share. I have since learned that is the rule if you go out to eat with them... you have to order something different and share what you have. )
Throughout lunch we had a great conversation about a variety of topics including restaurants (I just had a bad experience at a local restaurant), work enviroments and dynamics.
I have rarely heard people speak about "loving work" but although it was not said... you could tell that something is working very well at that office.
Before I left the office the big cheese over there gave me a book. It's called "Why Work Sucks and How to Fix it" We chatted about the book for a few minutes and I left.
The last couple of nights I have been reading this book and it's almost as if someone took my own thoughts and views and wrote a book for me... really, I should be taking credit for this book because I have had exactly the same thoughts for atleast the last 5 years...
The thought process with this book is very interesting and I would say controversial to an extent but makes so much sense....The book is based on the "Results Only Work Environment (google it if you need too) Here is a quote or two for you to ponder:
"This new way of living is based on the radical idea that you are an adult. It is based on the radical idea that even though you owe your company your best work, you do not owe them your time or your life" (page 3)
"In a Results Only Work Environment (ROWE) people can do whatever they want, whenever they want, as long as the work gets done" (also page 3)
"You get paid for a chunk of work not a chunk of time" (page 4)
There are TONS of golden nuggets of info that I am just captivated by... It may seem outlandish but I truely believe that it is possible to run a business using this principal . The truth is the guy that gave me this book?? He runs his business based on many of these principals, and from the outside looking in it sure looks like a happy crew over there who love their jobs and have the flexibility to actually have a life.
So in saying all this, I think I might just move in there just to feed off the energy that these happy people have created. Got an extra chair??
It clearly wasn't a formal "boss / employee" relationship. Almost like 2 adults who respect the fact that they are adults... but almost like brother and sister. (They each ordered something different so they could share. I have since learned that is the rule if you go out to eat with them... you have to order something different and share what you have. )
Throughout lunch we had a great conversation about a variety of topics including restaurants (I just had a bad experience at a local restaurant), work enviroments and dynamics.
I have rarely heard people speak about "loving work" but although it was not said... you could tell that something is working very well at that office.
Before I left the office the big cheese over there gave me a book. It's called "Why Work Sucks and How to Fix it" We chatted about the book for a few minutes and I left.
The last couple of nights I have been reading this book and it's almost as if someone took my own thoughts and views and wrote a book for me... really, I should be taking credit for this book because I have had exactly the same thoughts for atleast the last 5 years...
The thought process with this book is very interesting and I would say controversial to an extent but makes so much sense....The book is based on the "Results Only Work Environment (google it if you need too) Here is a quote or two for you to ponder:
"This new way of living is based on the radical idea that you are an adult. It is based on the radical idea that even though you owe your company your best work, you do not owe them your time or your life" (page 3)
"In a Results Only Work Environment (ROWE) people can do whatever they want, whenever they want, as long as the work gets done" (also page 3)
"You get paid for a chunk of work not a chunk of time" (page 4)
There are TONS of golden nuggets of info that I am just captivated by... It may seem outlandish but I truely believe that it is possible to run a business using this principal . The truth is the guy that gave me this book?? He runs his business based on many of these principals, and from the outside looking in it sure looks like a happy crew over there who love their jobs and have the flexibility to actually have a life.
So in saying all this, I think I might just move in there just to feed off the energy that these happy people have created. Got an extra chair??
Monday, September 6, 2010
A Leap of Faith
After a rather long hiatus from blogging, the fall is here and with my favourite season comes routine. Back into the swing of things. Back to school (yay!!!), activities, and time for fitness for me. I'd love to say that I'm one of those amazing people that sticks to a rigorous fitness routine, sadly I am not. Although with kids in school I am excited to get back into my running routine and also boot camp. Wish me luck on that one.
I took 3 months off work to focus on me and my family for a bit and get back some of that balance that was lacking prior to taking time off. Before leaving my job I carefully considered whether or not we could financially handle me taking time off and what my options in the fall would be.
Now anyone that knows me for more than 5 minutes knows that I'm a talker. Perhaps it's a bit of my outgoing personality or perhaps I really enjoy meeting people. Either way it's my strength and my weakness. (all my past school report cards could attest to that)
For the last 5 years I have had such a deep desire to "do what I love" and start my own business. I love communications, public affairs, facilitation, presenting, media you name it.
Though loads of past experience I have developed these skills and abilities and will go as far as saying they are my talents. Another passion I have is self improvement. I have more books than I can count on all different areas (so many so that I have had to create a system for loaning as may of my books were out and missing at times) and topics and have read them all more than once.
I have finally decided (after much prompting by my family and peers) to take a leap of faith and get the ball rolling. Last week I became a certified Level 1 Facilitator for a tool called "Personality Dimensions". ( http://www.personalitydimensions.com/) This is a tool that I have used for 6 years now personally and loved it so much that I decided to obtain certification and share this valuable tool with Central Alberta. By doing so I can combine both of my passions and maintain a great work life balance.
Wish me luck.
I took 3 months off work to focus on me and my family for a bit and get back some of that balance that was lacking prior to taking time off. Before leaving my job I carefully considered whether or not we could financially handle me taking time off and what my options in the fall would be.
Now anyone that knows me for more than 5 minutes knows that I'm a talker. Perhaps it's a bit of my outgoing personality or perhaps I really enjoy meeting people. Either way it's my strength and my weakness. (all my past school report cards could attest to that)
For the last 5 years I have had such a deep desire to "do what I love" and start my own business. I love communications, public affairs, facilitation, presenting, media you name it.
Though loads of past experience I have developed these skills and abilities and will go as far as saying they are my talents. Another passion I have is self improvement. I have more books than I can count on all different areas (so many so that I have had to create a system for loaning as may of my books were out and missing at times) and topics and have read them all more than once.
I have finally decided (after much prompting by my family and peers) to take a leap of faith and get the ball rolling. Last week I became a certified Level 1 Facilitator for a tool called "Personality Dimensions". ( http://www.personalitydimensions.com/) This is a tool that I have used for 6 years now personally and loved it so much that I decided to obtain certification and share this valuable tool with Central Alberta. By doing so I can combine both of my passions and maintain a great work life balance.
Wish me luck.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Change
I apologize for not blogging in a few weeks.. the end of school is a busy time. My goal was to blog once a week and I am determined to stick with that goal.
At 5:30 this morning I said good bye to a dear friend. She and her husband were instrumental in getting our family connected when we first moved to Red Deer nearly 2 years ago. A few months ago when she shared that they were leaving I was devastated. Making real friends as an adult is much more challenging then making friends when your 8. This person made a point of introducing us to lots of different people and made a point of spending time with us, showing us around, sharing all of their favourite hot spots, restaurants, etc. Truly they were a Godsend.
Within a month or two a relative that I am very close to called and told me that her and her husband were moving to Hong Kong.
Everyone knows that change isn't easy. We cannot avoid change but we can decide what our reaction and attitude towards it will be. I have heard it be said that it takes either a minute, an hour or a day to process change. I know that for me it's a day. I need a full day to process situations. That full day usually involves going to sleep and waking up (either a nap or overnight). Because I know this about myself I don't allow myself to feel pressure about making decisions right away. Over the last couple of years, I have worked though managing stressful situations better and working towards controlling my emotions. It's a working progress.
It takes a lot more to stress me out now a days. For me a big part of that has been learning to let things go.. to show people grace when they do something I don't like and seeing past comments to the heart of the person. I value the relationships in my life and want to be that person that is not easily offended..(that is my goal this year) and one that is quick to forgive and make others feel like they matter. At the end of the day isn't that what we all really want?
Thought for the day: It takes a lot of work to hate someone. Forgiveness is very freeing. Try it sometime.
At 5:30 this morning I said good bye to a dear friend. She and her husband were instrumental in getting our family connected when we first moved to Red Deer nearly 2 years ago. A few months ago when she shared that they were leaving I was devastated. Making real friends as an adult is much more challenging then making friends when your 8. This person made a point of introducing us to lots of different people and made a point of spending time with us, showing us around, sharing all of their favourite hot spots, restaurants, etc. Truly they were a Godsend.
Within a month or two a relative that I am very close to called and told me that her and her husband were moving to Hong Kong.
Everyone knows that change isn't easy. We cannot avoid change but we can decide what our reaction and attitude towards it will be. I have heard it be said that it takes either a minute, an hour or a day to process change. I know that for me it's a day. I need a full day to process situations. That full day usually involves going to sleep and waking up (either a nap or overnight). Because I know this about myself I don't allow myself to feel pressure about making decisions right away. Over the last couple of years, I have worked though managing stressful situations better and working towards controlling my emotions. It's a working progress.
It takes a lot more to stress me out now a days. For me a big part of that has been learning to let things go.. to show people grace when they do something I don't like and seeing past comments to the heart of the person. I value the relationships in my life and want to be that person that is not easily offended..(that is my goal this year) and one that is quick to forgive and make others feel like they matter. At the end of the day isn't that what we all really want?
Thought for the day: It takes a lot of work to hate someone. Forgiveness is very freeing. Try it sometime.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
No more "Lush" for this girl
This afternoon I was strolling Whyte ave in Edmonton with my hubby. As I walk pass Lush cosmetics I see this poster in their window. To say I was wild was perhaps an understatement. I sent the pic to my friend Jon who kindly posted it on twitter for me.
Their website shows a very (one sided) flashy video about the "most destructive project on earth"
I also posted the picture on my facebook and got some really great feedback from people who work and reside in Wood Buffalo and others who don't live anywhere near there but support Alberta's Oilsands.
Before I share some of their feedback I want to first say that I value our environment and think we need to each do our part to preserve it for future generations. Secondly I want to say that Alberta's economy depends on this oil. Without the revenue from this resource we could expect to have a provincial sales tax of roughly 16% plus the 5% GST.
It irates me that a soap company that claims their products are all natural are now on a "soapbox" preaching to the world with misinformation about the "tar sands" .
Rob from Fort McMurray said " People are so misinformed. The Dirty Tarsands account for less than 1% of the worlds carbon emissions, where is this info in the video? Coal is the dirtiest energy source in the world, and the US is the biggest coal user and supplier! We don't have an alternative energy source! There are initiatives to clean up the environment, but perspective would be nice!! Level headed conversation, accurate information and logical solutions! When did all reason go out the window?
Mark from Edmonton writes " Another case of the uneducated trying to educate the uneducated. Yes, tearing down trees, digging holes and carbon emissions are bad, but hundreds of thousands of people out of work (remember most of downtown Calgary is employed because of oilsands and most of Nisku and Fort Saskatchewan not to mention the energy traders in places like New York and Toronto) is bad, and the financial collapse of most of Canada would ensue. And let's not single out the oilsands. The coal mines / power plants around Wabamun pollute more than the oilsands as does the PRB (power river basin) in Wyoming. If it wasn't for mining and energy generation in general all those environmentalists wouldn't have Mac computers to produce videos, iPhones to tweet on or Prius's to drive. If it's not mined, it's grown.
and finally.. Leanne from Red Deer said " Have they heard of BP??"
I believe strongly in Alberta's oilsands. I urge you all to approach this subject for discussion based on factual information considering both the environment and the number of Canadians that benefit from it. Really, it's all about balance.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Who's your Hero?
As I scroll though the latest tweets on twitter this morning I see the phrase " Tell me who your hero's are".
Wow. Nothing like getting the brain going early in the morning. This was most definitely an challenging thing to come up with.
My first thought was my friend Deb. Although she has some very impressive political achievements under her belt, the things that I admire about her are too long to list. To name a few I love that she is as real as they get. If you don't want a truthful answer, don't ask Deb. She never apologizes for who she is and is not the type to whine about her figure or try to make her body into something it's not (a size zero). She is positive and encouraging and has the most amazing sense of humor. Although we have not spent a ton of time together I always look forward to our chats either on the phone or by email.
Thinking about hero's is an interesting thing. Our first thought is someone famous perhaps. Ghandi, Mother Teresa, The Dalai Lama, maybe a celebrity even.... lets think a little closer to home. Everyone has a story.... when I think of my friends and family and coworkers and acquaintances there is one "hero" in my circle that I want to mention.
There is a gem of a lady that I met last fall. She is (not by her choosing) a single mother of 5 children. Her life is not easy. She works, volunteers both with her kids activities and in other things she enjoys. After having 5 kids and suddenly becoming single she went back to school to learn some administrative skills and through this long process has emerged a positively vibrant, strong, and determined woman. She invests real quality time with her kids. A line she always uses as a guide with raising her kids is " more is caught then taught". After many years of single life she is getting married and is looking forward to being married again. No matter what she deals with in the course of a day she is always smiling and always lights up a room when she enters it. I miss her when she is not around. Her energy, humor and outlook on life is addicting. I love you girl!!
In my world, hero's have certain traits. So perhaps you are one of them and we have not met yet.
A hero breaks the cycle of negative and destructive behavior in their family lines.
A hero does not let the past define their future.
A hero admits when they don't have all the answers and knows how to ask for help.
A hero desires to be a better person and strives everyday to do so.
A hero puts relationships ahead of things.
A hero knows how to say "I'm sorry I was wrong".
A hero is a voice for those that don't have one.
Be a hero. Every hero thing you do really does change some one's life for the better.
Wow. Nothing like getting the brain going early in the morning. This was most definitely an challenging thing to come up with.
My first thought was my friend Deb. Although she has some very impressive political achievements under her belt, the things that I admire about her are too long to list. To name a few I love that she is as real as they get. If you don't want a truthful answer, don't ask Deb. She never apologizes for who she is and is not the type to whine about her figure or try to make her body into something it's not (a size zero). She is positive and encouraging and has the most amazing sense of humor. Although we have not spent a ton of time together I always look forward to our chats either on the phone or by email.
Thinking about hero's is an interesting thing. Our first thought is someone famous perhaps. Ghandi, Mother Teresa, The Dalai Lama, maybe a celebrity even.... lets think a little closer to home. Everyone has a story.... when I think of my friends and family and coworkers and acquaintances there is one "hero" in my circle that I want to mention.
There is a gem of a lady that I met last fall. She is (not by her choosing) a single mother of 5 children. Her life is not easy. She works, volunteers both with her kids activities and in other things she enjoys. After having 5 kids and suddenly becoming single she went back to school to learn some administrative skills and through this long process has emerged a positively vibrant, strong, and determined woman. She invests real quality time with her kids. A line she always uses as a guide with raising her kids is " more is caught then taught". After many years of single life she is getting married and is looking forward to being married again. No matter what she deals with in the course of a day she is always smiling and always lights up a room when she enters it. I miss her when she is not around. Her energy, humor and outlook on life is addicting. I love you girl!!
In my world, hero's have certain traits. So perhaps you are one of them and we have not met yet.
A hero breaks the cycle of negative and destructive behavior in their family lines.
A hero does not let the past define their future.
A hero admits when they don't have all the answers and knows how to ask for help.
A hero desires to be a better person and strives everyday to do so.
A hero puts relationships ahead of things.
A hero knows how to say "I'm sorry I was wrong".
A hero is a voice for those that don't have one.
Be a hero. Every hero thing you do really does change some one's life for the better.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Debit Card Security
I came home from work yesterday and there was a voicemail from my banks security department urging me to call them immediately.
After calling in I was informed by a digital voice that my card had been used at a location that is currently being investigated for skimming and card duplication. I was then required to go to my local branch for a new card.
Upon arriving at the branch, I asked the teller what business in town was suspected and was told "I don't know. None of us do. Unless the police get involved nobody will ever know."
Might I say that this really bothered me. I use chip and pin technology. These "new security measures" are supposed to prevent this from happening and I am standing at a branch location having to be issued a new card and now have to (after 12 years) choose a new pin.
Besides the inconvenience of the whole ordeal, the most disturbing thing is that the business in question benefits from complete privacy and is still allowed to open it's doors every day and breach the trust of it's customers.
WHAT IF.... businesses that were being investigated or charged were publicized and held accountable. In a day and age of FOIP and privacy, where is the line that says we have taken it too far??
In the name of privacy we have eliminated accountability and integrity in business dealings in this capacity. I am all for protecting a persons personal identity (especially online) however I feel that individuals should loose that right if they are participating in theft, bullying or trying to remain anonymous while exercising "freedom of speech" because they are too cowardly to receive the backlash of their "freedom of speech".
What do I do now? Well...... I guess I will start memorizing my new pin.
After calling in I was informed by a digital voice that my card had been used at a location that is currently being investigated for skimming and card duplication. I was then required to go to my local branch for a new card.
Upon arriving at the branch, I asked the teller what business in town was suspected and was told "I don't know. None of us do. Unless the police get involved nobody will ever know."
Might I say that this really bothered me. I use chip and pin technology. These "new security measures" are supposed to prevent this from happening and I am standing at a branch location having to be issued a new card and now have to (after 12 years) choose a new pin.
Besides the inconvenience of the whole ordeal, the most disturbing thing is that the business in question benefits from complete privacy and is still allowed to open it's doors every day and breach the trust of it's customers.
WHAT IF.... businesses that were being investigated or charged were publicized and held accountable. In a day and age of FOIP and privacy, where is the line that says we have taken it too far??
In the name of privacy we have eliminated accountability and integrity in business dealings in this capacity. I am all for protecting a persons personal identity (especially online) however I feel that individuals should loose that right if they are participating in theft, bullying or trying to remain anonymous while exercising "freedom of speech" because they are too cowardly to receive the backlash of their "freedom of speech".
What do I do now? Well...... I guess I will start memorizing my new pin.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Non Profit: Do you Donate?
Since picking up blogging again, I have kept a notebook in my purse anytime a topic comes up that would be interesting to blog about. I work for a very large non profit and currently they are running their "family campaign".
I've been in the non profit sector for 5 years now and have observed the great differences in running and managing charitable organizations. Everyone feels (of course) that they are doing amazing work and are always after the almighty dollar to keep things running.
I have sat around boardroom tables and discussion have been had about the expectation of board members financially contributing to the organizations they volunteer with. Of course there was some push back. This got me thinking. We do the work we do because we want to make a difference (why else would you work for lower than average wages?) but at the end of the day do we really believe enough to personally sacrifice a few dollars each month to support the "great work" we are doing?
If I do not believe enough in the work I do to contribute some dollars each month then perhaps I should not be there. If we expect donors to open their pocketbooks and support us then maybe we need to also be accountable and follow suit as well. I'm not talking tons of money here, if you donate $20.00 a paycheck, at the end of the year that's $ 480.00. If all your staff do that, in my mind going to funders with that bit of information is more powerful then the number of volunteer hours.
I'm sure there are those reading that would maybe disagree, or maybe not.
I'd love your feedback on this one.
I've been in the non profit sector for 5 years now and have observed the great differences in running and managing charitable organizations. Everyone feels (of course) that they are doing amazing work and are always after the almighty dollar to keep things running.
I have sat around boardroom tables and discussion have been had about the expectation of board members financially contributing to the organizations they volunteer with. Of course there was some push back. This got me thinking. We do the work we do because we want to make a difference (why else would you work for lower than average wages?) but at the end of the day do we really believe enough to personally sacrifice a few dollars each month to support the "great work" we are doing?
If I do not believe enough in the work I do to contribute some dollars each month then perhaps I should not be there. If we expect donors to open their pocketbooks and support us then maybe we need to also be accountable and follow suit as well. I'm not talking tons of money here, if you donate $20.00 a paycheck, at the end of the year that's $ 480.00. If all your staff do that, in my mind going to funders with that bit of information is more powerful then the number of volunteer hours.
I'm sure there are those reading that would maybe disagree, or maybe not.
I'd love your feedback on this one.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Making Work a Great Place
Starting a new job always involves a "honeymoon" phase. This is a time when everything is wonderful, amazing and exciting. At some point the honeymoon ends and we are faced with the reality of our position.
Every job has it's ups and downs. The keys to more ups then downs are listed below. Some of you may agree with me and others may not. These are thing that I have observed along the way that have worked for me in creating an amazing work environment and retaining staff.
1. Take interest in your staff and co-workers ever day - As a boss take 2 min first thing in the morning to greet and interact with each staff member. Make them feel like a valuable member of the team and not just an "employee"
2. Have an "Open Door" policy - Keep your door open all the time and make yourself available to your staff.
3. Take a "time out" and do something out of the ordinary - Everyone can use a little stress management every now and again. Try a snowball fight in the winter, or bring treats for the morning coffee break... it's up to you
4. Take your lunch breaks - Create an environment of self care by setting the example. Encourage the staff to leave their offices to eat and enjoy the outdoors. Employees that practice self care are more productive.
5. Approve all Time off Requests - Better yet, create an environment of respect where by nobody asks for time off. The expectation is that ALL requests are approved. Now I know many of you are in strong disagreement with me. Here is the thing. Everyone has a personal life outside of work. Providing that proper notice is given, it is possible that everyone at some point will have to cover for another or "take one for the team" Employees that know that time off is never an issue will never have a reason to quit because of unapproved time off. I have personally implemented this strategy and found it highly successful when the environment is created that we all have to work together to cover for each other. It's worth a thought or two.
Most of all... HAVE FUN AND LAUGH AT WORK.
Now i know there are some of you thinking " too touchy feely for me.. I just want to go to work, do my job and go home...work is no place for friendships"
Well, my answer to that is, "You spend more time with your co-workers than you do your family. It is in your best interest to cultivate some sort of relationship with your coworkers. We work in a day and age that promotes a TEAM ENVIRONMENT. How can a team work together if they are not all on the same page??
Until Next time...
Every job has it's ups and downs. The keys to more ups then downs are listed below. Some of you may agree with me and others may not. These are thing that I have observed along the way that have worked for me in creating an amazing work environment and retaining staff.
1. Take interest in your staff and co-workers ever day - As a boss take 2 min first thing in the morning to greet and interact with each staff member. Make them feel like a valuable member of the team and not just an "employee"
2. Have an "Open Door" policy - Keep your door open all the time and make yourself available to your staff.
3. Take a "time out" and do something out of the ordinary - Everyone can use a little stress management every now and again. Try a snowball fight in the winter, or bring treats for the morning coffee break... it's up to you
4. Take your lunch breaks - Create an environment of self care by setting the example. Encourage the staff to leave their offices to eat and enjoy the outdoors. Employees that practice self care are more productive.
5. Approve all Time off Requests - Better yet, create an environment of respect where by nobody asks for time off. The expectation is that ALL requests are approved. Now I know many of you are in strong disagreement with me. Here is the thing. Everyone has a personal life outside of work. Providing that proper notice is given, it is possible that everyone at some point will have to cover for another or "take one for the team" Employees that know that time off is never an issue will never have a reason to quit because of unapproved time off. I have personally implemented this strategy and found it highly successful when the environment is created that we all have to work together to cover for each other. It's worth a thought or two.
Most of all... HAVE FUN AND LAUGH AT WORK.
Now i know there are some of you thinking " too touchy feely for me.. I just want to go to work, do my job and go home...work is no place for friendships"
Well, my answer to that is, "You spend more time with your co-workers than you do your family. It is in your best interest to cultivate some sort of relationship with your coworkers. We work in a day and age that promotes a TEAM ENVIRONMENT. How can a team work together if they are not all on the same page??
Until Next time...
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Who are you in a 1 liner?
There seems to be quite a few single people in my life all looking for their "special someone". Almost weekly I hear the words "Do you have any single friends?". This week I was asked for the first time to critique someones online dating profile. They asked me to provide feedback on their 1 liner to introduce themselves. I couldn't help but be just a little grateful that I am not "single and looking" as so many of my friends and family are.
I decided to enlist the help of my coworkers to come up with a good one liner. Although we are all in stable relationships, the focus quickly turned to what OUR one liners would be. Mine was "Gently Assertive, Slightly Dramatic and knows what she wants" What does that say to the dating world? We jokingly named our boss the "fiery red head with an iron fist" That was a good laugh. We spent a good 15 minutes joking about our online desirability based on one line.
Back to the friend and the profile..... The choice of website being used was not the best for an "urban professional who has the respect of a whole community" however I was told that is where the majority of people are. The website is a glorified online meat market but has the most singles for smaller cities.
Perhaps I'm old fashioned, but is this what it has come to? Meeting someone, talking to them for several weeks or months before having a face to face dinner? I guess I'm out of the loop. I've been with the same guy for over a decade. We met at summer camp as teenagers and had to write letters and make phone calls (before the days of unlimited long distance plans) . There was no text messaging or email or facebook (how did I ever survive?) but we got to know each other and after a few years got married and the rest was history. Do we txt and facebook now? All the time.. gotta keep up with romance somehow.
I have all the empathy in the world for the singles in my life.... better them than me.
I decided to enlist the help of my coworkers to come up with a good one liner. Although we are all in stable relationships, the focus quickly turned to what OUR one liners would be. Mine was "Gently Assertive, Slightly Dramatic and knows what she wants" What does that say to the dating world? We jokingly named our boss the "fiery red head with an iron fist" That was a good laugh. We spent a good 15 minutes joking about our online desirability based on one line.
Back to the friend and the profile..... The choice of website being used was not the best for an "urban professional who has the respect of a whole community" however I was told that is where the majority of people are. The website is a glorified online meat market but has the most singles for smaller cities.
Perhaps I'm old fashioned, but is this what it has come to? Meeting someone, talking to them for several weeks or months before having a face to face dinner? I guess I'm out of the loop. I've been with the same guy for over a decade. We met at summer camp as teenagers and had to write letters and make phone calls (before the days of unlimited long distance plans) . There was no text messaging or email or facebook (how did I ever survive?) but we got to know each other and after a few years got married and the rest was history. Do we txt and facebook now? All the time.. gotta keep up with romance somehow.
I have all the empathy in the world for the singles in my life.... better them than me.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Ladies in Society
I have just finished reading a contribution to Real Woman magazine by local Danielle Klooster and am again in awe by this woman. I personally know Danielle and she is definitely a beacon of light in my life. She stands for honesty, integrity and fairness in all areas of her life. She is absolutely one of the funniest people I have ever met. She has the most amazing ability to interject humor into any and all conversations and situations.
Prior to moving to Red Deer, I was a resident of Wood Buffalo (Fort McMurray). In the time that I lived there I was given chances and opportunities that I would have never gotten in any other community. I was given the chance to fulfill a lifelong dream to help youth in creating a coffeehouse and youth centre. I was offered a spot in a community leadership program. Through those things I discovered my love for marketing and media. I was given the opportunity to work at a radio station and became a radio talk show host with a weekly talk show. I became a marketing & media machine and loved every minute of it. I developed a HUGE network of people in all sectors and was well known in the non profit sector.
Fast forward to Aug of 2008. We move to Red Deer. Red Deer is not Fort McMurray. The opportunities for informally trained individuals is near non existent. The only employment I could get here was cleaning houses for seniors. Not to downplay the importance of that role. It is in high demand in central Alberta. I wanted to be a community leader again. I wanted to be in the know.. I wanted my network back.. WAAAAA !!! As much as I grieved the loss of friends and family being close by, I grieved the loss of my life as I knew it.
Fast forward to today. I am slowly getting that back. A HUGE reason for that is Mrs. Danielle Klooster. When I struggled with mom / work balance she reminded me that my marketing and leadership abilities are God given. He gave them to me and I have a responsibility to use them. That does not make me a bad mother (something I somehow had convinced myself of) . So thanks Danielle for your in site and encouragement.
We all have the potential to do great things and impact peoples lives. What have you done today to improve the life of another?
Prior to moving to Red Deer, I was a resident of Wood Buffalo (Fort McMurray). In the time that I lived there I was given chances and opportunities that I would have never gotten in any other community. I was given the chance to fulfill a lifelong dream to help youth in creating a coffeehouse and youth centre. I was offered a spot in a community leadership program. Through those things I discovered my love for marketing and media. I was given the opportunity to work at a radio station and became a radio talk show host with a weekly talk show. I became a marketing & media machine and loved every minute of it. I developed a HUGE network of people in all sectors and was well known in the non profit sector.
Fast forward to Aug of 2008. We move to Red Deer. Red Deer is not Fort McMurray. The opportunities for informally trained individuals is near non existent. The only employment I could get here was cleaning houses for seniors. Not to downplay the importance of that role. It is in high demand in central Alberta. I wanted to be a community leader again. I wanted to be in the know.. I wanted my network back.. WAAAAA !!! As much as I grieved the loss of friends and family being close by, I grieved the loss of my life as I knew it.
Fast forward to today. I am slowly getting that back. A HUGE reason for that is Mrs. Danielle Klooster. When I struggled with mom / work balance she reminded me that my marketing and leadership abilities are God given. He gave them to me and I have a responsibility to use them. That does not make me a bad mother (something I somehow had convinced myself of) . So thanks Danielle for your in site and encouragement.
We all have the potential to do great things and impact peoples lives. What have you done today to improve the life of another?
Friday, April 9, 2010
A Little Humor
So an organization I do some work with is in the process of putting together an annual review. Some recommendations for photos was emailed around and I thought I would share it with you.
Pictures. Many of your have provided exceptional pictures which I will happily include in the annual review. A few of you need a reminder of what makes an exceptional picture.
A person’s face is far more expressive than their back.
Random body parts, which do not belong to one of the participants in the photo are unusable.
The subject of a superb photo may look radiant and glowing- the person standing behind them making a funny face or standing with their eyes closed, draws all of the attention away from the radiant subject.
Out of focus, grainy, or distant photos are not pleasing to the eye.
Pictures which display body language which may be interpreted as sexually suggestive are not appropriate for a report to our stakeholders.
Pictures with hand/finger symbols (peace signs, etc) are not the types of pictures which are best displayed in an annual review. Expressions and emotions are quite welcome, within reason.
While a picture may say 1000 words, the picture should not say 1000 random words which do not convey a story. If a persons who was not at your event cannot tell what the picture is of/about than it is not a usable picture.
Pic 001.jpg doesn’t tell me when your picture was taken or what it is about. PLEASE follow the naming instructions
Well, not sure if you found this funny, however myself and a coworker found it very Witty.
Happy Friday
Pictures. Many of your have provided exceptional pictures which I will happily include in the annual review. A few of you need a reminder of what makes an exceptional picture.
A person’s face is far more expressive than their back.
Random body parts, which do not belong to one of the participants in the photo are unusable.
The subject of a superb photo may look radiant and glowing- the person standing behind them making a funny face or standing with their eyes closed, draws all of the attention away from the radiant subject.
Out of focus, grainy, or distant photos are not pleasing to the eye.
Pictures which display body language which may be interpreted as sexually suggestive are not appropriate for a report to our stakeholders.
Pictures with hand/finger symbols (peace signs, etc) are not the types of pictures which are best displayed in an annual review. Expressions and emotions are quite welcome, within reason.
While a picture may say 1000 words, the picture should not say 1000 random words which do not convey a story. If a persons who was not at your event cannot tell what the picture is of/about than it is not a usable picture.
Pic 001.jpg doesn’t tell me when your picture was taken or what it is about. PLEASE follow the naming instructions
Well, not sure if you found this funny, however myself and a coworker found it very Witty.
Happy Friday
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Culturally Relevant Marketing
So I spent the Easter long weekend in Fort McMurray. I lived there for 9 years prior to moving to Central Alberta. Every time I go back to visit there is always something different. The last time I went I noticed TONS of new landscaping all over the city and new benches and garbage bins. That was a huge improvement to the look of the city.
This time I noticed the most ingenious marketing on one of the local radio stations. It was so clever I have thought about it for a few days and decided it needed to be shared. Here are a few of the lines I heard on the radio
1. Fort McMurray, the city of half a million dollar trailers ... your listening to todays best music Mix 103.7
2. Fort McMurray, a city with more sleds and quads than people...
3. If you are in your vehicle chances are you are waiting for a coffee or a car wash ... keeping you company Mix 103.7
Unless you have lived or visited Fort McMurray these may not seem clever. However, I find it interesting how an isolated community has faced challenges and can poke fun and embrace those challenges and still wake up every morning smiling.
Here's to all those Fort McMurrayites who wake up every morning and embrace challenges with a smiling face :)
This time I noticed the most ingenious marketing on one of the local radio stations. It was so clever I have thought about it for a few days and decided it needed to be shared. Here are a few of the lines I heard on the radio
1. Fort McMurray, the city of half a million dollar trailers ... your listening to todays best music Mix 103.7
2. Fort McMurray, a city with more sleds and quads than people...
3. If you are in your vehicle chances are you are waiting for a coffee or a car wash ... keeping you company Mix 103.7
Unless you have lived or visited Fort McMurray these may not seem clever. However, I find it interesting how an isolated community has faced challenges and can poke fun and embrace those challenges and still wake up every morning smiling.
Here's to all those Fort McMurrayites who wake up every morning and embrace challenges with a smiling face :)
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