Sterling Creations Blog


Subscribe to our Feed

Staying in touch!

Welcome to our blogs! A page where you will find a selection of articles, editorials, and human interest stories.
We strive to bring you information that will keep you in touch with the rest of the world and we offer you an opportunity to let the rest of the world keep in touch with you through your very own contributions.

you can make your own submissions at no cost and if your submission is chosen, it will be published along with your name and any other information that you wish us to publish.
All submissions will be reviewed to ensure appropriateness before they are published.
So, time for you to keep in touch!

Enjoy and don't forget to send your feedback to us at info@sterlingcreations.ca.!

Saturday, July 31, 2010

Do women have a place in the small business arena?

Greetings!  I'm Christian Robicheau, assistant editor at www.sterlingcreations.ca.
Well, we are getting ready to welcome the month of August and I hope that everyone is continuing to enjoy this nice warm weather.  It's time for me to introduce an editorial by our president Donna J. Jodhan and today, Donna focuses her attention on the role of women in the small business arena.
Here now is Donna.
I wish you a great weekend.
 

Do women have a place in the small business arena?
 
I have been a small business owner for over 16 years now and I say yes!  In a world where men still rule, and there's still a glass ceiling for women, I truly believe that there is definitely a place for us.  I am a woman, I am visually impaired, but I've managed to make it!
 
Did you know that women are the owners of about 25% of small businesses in America today?  Did you also know that they are the owners of 10% of the top Fortune 500 companies?  Did you also know that women business owners is one of the fastest growing trends in America today?  According to CNN news, the growth of women owners of small businesses outstripped the growth of new companies in 2006 by about 23%.
 
The number of battered women across America continues to increase.  The number of women as single parents also continues to skyrocket, but at the same time and despite all of this, women are still making it in the business world.
 
The challenges for women are many, but it is definitely doable.  Persistence is one of the ingredients for success.  Another is making sure that our voices are heard on a constant basis.  We need to constantly keep reminding the rest of the world that we have something to contribute.  We can think for ourselves and we are independent enough to pay our own taxes, earn our own incomes, and live our own lives.
 
What we need to keep in mind is that we have to keep ourselves focused on the prize.  We need to remember that both men and many of our fellow women will always be questioning our abilities both in and out of the boardroom and we have to find ways to keep proving them wrong.  I know that it's often hard to keep our cool, but losing our cool will only give them amunition for more attacks on our abilities.
 
So, don't give up!  As women we have to stick together and help and support each other. 
 

I'm Donna J. Jodhan wishing you a terrific day and weekend.
To reach me, please send an email to info@sterlingcreations.ca and I would be delighted to send you an electronic copy of our latest newsletter.
 
Here is a complete list of where you can view Donna's blogs and editorials.
Donna Jodhan!  Advocating accessibility for all
http://www.donnajodhan.blogspot.com 
Weekly blogs for language professionals and accessibility consultants
http://www.sterlingcreationsca.blogspot.com
A monthly editorial on issues on diversity
http://www.diversityintheworkplace.ca

Friday, July 30, 2010

Your best American cities- your virtual ttravel agent

Hello there!  I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your friendly virtual travel agent and it's that time once more for us to take our weekly trip into the wonderful world of travel.
I hope that everyone is ready for a bit of fun after a long hard week.
Time to climb aboard now!
Enjoy!
 
Week of July 31 2010
 
Your best American cities
 
1. San Bernardino California
Looking for a city to retire to?
Or one where you can vacation away from the crowds?
Or one where you can set up a second home and get into the remote managing mode?
Then why not San Bernardino?
A beautiful California city that is still very pristine.
Lots of green space, friendly neighborhoods, and friendly residents.
Come and see for yourself!
 
2. St. Paul Minnesota
If you want to live in one of America's most livable cities; one of the safest and healthiest, then St. Paul Minnesota is for you.
A city with excellent educational facilities, oodles of jobs in the service industry, and friendly neighborhoods.
A city that can offer you a home to raise your family in relative comfort.
A city that offers you healthy living in lots of green spaces.
 
3. St. Petersburg Florida
Here is a city for everyone; for the retiree, the young professional, and even the vacationer. 
Europeans make it their favourite vacation spot while North Americans make it their favourite retirement home.
Come and enjoy the wondrous sailing, swimming golfing, and rich night life and fine dining.
Live in neighborhoods that are located on their own separate islands.
 
4. Tempe Arizona
Looking for a city with a twist?
One that has sunshine almost all the year through?
One that offers excellent job prospects in the financial, high tech, insurance, and health care industries among others?
A city with excellent shopping, educational facilities, and great dining spots and night life?
Then you need to pay a visit to Tempe Arizona.
 

I'm Donna J. Jodhan bidding you a happy travel time.
Visit me at www.sterlingcreations.ca if you would like to learn more.
Or send me an email at donnajodhan@sterlingcreations.ca.

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Hybrid Cars May Include Fake Vroom for Safety

Greetings!  I'm Nico Trimoff, manager of transcription and accessibility services at www.sterlingcreations.ca and today I have an interesting article to share with you to end our week.
It's all about high-bred cars.
I wish you a terrific day.
 

+++++++++++++++
A newspaper article
 
Hybrid Cars May Include Fake Vroom for Safety
By JIM MOTAVALLI
October 14, 2009
New York Times
For decades, automakers have been on a quest to make cars quieter: an
auto that purrs,
and glides almost silently in traffic.
They have finally succeeded. Plug-in hybrid and electric cars, it turns
out, not
only reduce air pollution, they cut noise pollution as well with their
whisper-quiet
motors. But that has created a different problem. They aren't noisy
enough.
So safety experts, worried that hybrids pose a threat if pedestrians,
children and
others can't hear them approaching, want automakers to supply some
digitally enhanced
vroom. Indeed, just as cellphones have ring tones, "car tones" may not
be far behind
- an option for owners of electric vehicles to choose the sound their
cars emit.
Working with Hollywood special-effects wizards, some hybrid auto
companies have started
tinkering in sound studios, rather than machine shops, to customize
engine noises.
The Fisker Karma, an $87,900 plug-in hybrid expected to go on sale next
year, will
emit a sound - pumped out of speakers in the bumpers - that the company
founder,
Henrik Fisker, describes as "a cross between a starship and a Formula
One car."
Nissan is also consulting with the film industry on sounds that could be
emitted
by its forthcoming Leaf battery-electric vehicle, while Toyota has been
working with
the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the National
Federation of the
Blind and the Society of Automotive Engineers on sounds for electric
vehicles.
"One possibility is choosing your own noise," said Nathalie Bauters, a
spokeswoman
for BMW's Mini division, who added that such technology could be added
to one of
BMW's electric vehicles in the future.
The notion that battery E.V.'s and plug-in hybrids might be too quiet
has gained
backing in Congress, among federal regulators and on the Internet. The
Pedestrian
Safety Enhancement Act of 2009, introduced early this year, would
require a federal
safety standard to protect pedestrians from ultra-quiet cars.
Karen Aldana, a spokeswoman for traffic safety agency, which is also
working on the
issue, said, "We're looking at data on noise and E.V. safety, but
manufacturers are
starting to address it voluntarily."
A Toyota spokesman, John Hanson, said: "I don't know of any injuries
related to this,
but it is a concern. We are moving rapidly toward broader use of
electrification
in vehicles, and it's a fact that these cars are very quiet and could
pose a risk
to unsighted people."
A study published last year by the University of California, Riverside
and financed
by the National Federation of the Blind evaluated the effect of sounds
emitted by
hybrid and internal-combustion cars traveling at 5 miles per hour.
People listening in a lab could correctly detect a gas-powered car's
approach when
it was 28 feet away, but could not hear the arrival of a hybrid
operating in silent
battery mode until it was only seven feet away.
Some electric-vehicle drivers have taken a low-tech approach to alerting
pedestrians.
When Paul Scott of Santa Monica, Calif., drives his 2002 Toyota RAV4
electric car,
he often rolls down the windows along busy streets and turns up his
radio so people
know his virtually silent vehicle is there.
Mr. Scott, vice president of the advocacy group Plug In America, said he
would prefer
giving drivers control over whether the motor makes noise, unlike, say,
the Fisker
Karma, which will make its warning noise automatically.
"Quiet cars need to stay quiet - we worked so hard to make them that
way," he said.
"It's the driver's responsibility not to hit somebody."
Mr. Scott has already warmed up to the idea of a car ring tone.
"It should be a manually operated noisemaker, a button on the steering
wheel triggering
a recording of your choice," he said. "It could play 'In-a-Gadda-Da-
 

If you would like to learn more about us and the services we offer, then please visit www.sterlingcreations.ca
If you would like to keep abreast of some of the most important happenings affecting your lives today, then please visit http://www.sterlingcreationsdesk.blogspot.com.  There you will get the latest news roundups on such topics as:
Stress, anxiety, and depression. News for retirees, seniors, and aging baby boomers.  Security tips for home computer users.  Home business opportunities, Internet business opportunities, small business opportunities, business opportunities in Asia.  You will also learn how to obtain tremendous personal and financial satisfaction by selling your knowledge and experience.
 
 

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Worry over reputation

Greetings!  I'm Mark Micheau, manager of research and translation services at www.sterlingcreations.ca.
It is already the middle of the week and July is just speeding along.
Today, I have a great article for you to read; a WebProNews one.
It's interesting and I hope you enjoy it.
I wish you a great day.
 

+++++++++++++++
A WebProNews article
 
Thursday, August 27, 2009
 Worry over reputation
 
Social media has become a common communication tool in the U.S., driven by the fact that Americans' time on social networking sites has increased by 73 percent in the past year, according to a new survey from Minneapolis-based Russell Herder and Ethos Business Law.
 
When it comes to using social media in a corporate setting, fifty-one percent of executives surveyed said they fear social media could reduce employee productivity, while 49 percent said that using social media could damage a company's reputation.
 
While executives are concerned about social media, they also see value in it, with 81 percent saying social media can improve customer relations and build their brands. Nearly 70 percent feel social networking can be valuable in recruitment (69%), as a customer service tool (64%) and used to improve employee morale (46%).
 
Do you see value in social media or do you have serious concerns about it? Let us know in the comments.
 
 
 

The most popular social networks being used include Facebook (80%), Twitter (66%), YouTube (55%), LinkedIn (49%) and blogs (43%).
 
 
 
 

"Particularly as Millennials compose a greater share of corporate ranks, social networks are likely to become more popular as communication channels with customers, colleagues and partners," said Carol Russell, CEO of Russell Herder.
 
The majority (74%) of executives said they visit social media sites at least weekly to read what customers are saying about their company, while 47 percent routinely monitor competitor's use of social networking. Over a third (36%) search social media sites to see what their employees are sharing and 25 percent use social networking to check the background of a potential employee.
 
"Social media is a far different animal than traditional technology, so a company's current policies on IT matters are usually not sufficient," said David Baer, President, Ethos.
 
"And remember, all companies are different, thus the rules for defining and implementing a social media policy are not universal. They must take into consideration the form, substance, philosophy and culture of the organization."
 
© 2009 WebProNews. An  email newsletter.
, Inc. 2549 Richmond Rd. Lexington KY, 40
 

If you would like to learn more about us and the services we offer, then please visit www.sterlingcreations.ca
If you would like to keep abreast of some of the most important happenings affecting your lives today, then please visit http://www.sterlingcreationsdesk.blogspot.com.  There you will get the latest news roundups on such topics as:
Stress, anxiety, and depression. News for retirees, seniors, and aging baby boomers.  Security tips for home computer users.  Home business opportunities, Internet business opportunities, small business opportunities, business opportunities in Asia.  You will also learn how to obtain tremendous personal and financial satisfaction by selling your knowledge and experience.
 
 

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Global Business Needs to Pay Special Attention to Fractured ...

Global Business Needs to Pay Special Attention to Fractured ...
By Donna J. Jodhan
 
When it comes to global trade and the matter of accurate translations, we need to ensure that what we translate is what we mean to say.  Too often, companies fall into the trap of using translators who translate literally and in many cases the finished translation either does not give the message accurately or it misses the gist of the message completely.
 
It is so important to be able to communicate accurately, precisely, and in a manner that clearly gives the intended words of a message.  That is, to be able to send a message that means what it says and says what it means.  How do we deal with this problem?  To start with, we can ensure that the translator is able to and has the ability to translate to and from the languages involved.  In short, they should be translating from a second language to the language that is their mother tongue. 
 
An example?  If my mother tongue is Spanish and my second language is English, then I should be translating from English to Spanish and not the other way around.    This should be a good starting point.  Please see my reference below.
 
+++++++++++++++
Global Business Needs to Pay Special Attention to Fractured ...
Read more at:
http://europe.globalthoughtz.com/ 
 

 I'm Donna J. Jodhan wishing you a terrific day.
Donna J. Jodhan is the president of Sterling Creations
Now you can view blogs and editorials written by Donna at:
http://www.donnajodhan.blogspot.com (Donna Jodhan!  Advocating accessibility for all)
http://www.diversityintheworkplace.ca (monthly editorial on issues concerning diversity)
http://www.onestopbookcafe.com (under the café talk link) 
http://www.sterlingcreationsca.blogspot.com (blogs for language professionals and accessibility consultants)

Monday, July 26, 2010

Jobs and careers identified

Greetings everyone!  I'm Jill Christiansen, manager of writing services at www.sterlingcreations.ca and today I have headlines to help you understand our shifting landscape more thoroughly.
Please read on.
 
Week of July 24
Jobs and careers identified
 
How would you like to learn more about changing careers in New York?
How can you stay one step ahead of the competition?
Please read on.
+++++++++++++++
New York Times (blog)
Answers About Changing Careers in New York
New York Times (blog)
It is a very natural thing for many of us in the baby boomer generation and beyond to buy into ageism. If we think something is an issue ourselves, ...
Read more at:
http://cityroom.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/03/24/answers-about-changing-careers-in-new-york-2/
 
Are older workers ready to deal with what comes after they have been downsized?
Are they planning adequately for this eventuality?
Please read on.
+++++++++++++++
Older workers should plan for what's next if they're put out to pasture
Dallas Morning News
And while losing your job at any age is traumatic, older workers feel particularly defeated because they think it's too late to start new jobs or careers. ...
Read more at:
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/bus/columnists/chall/stories/DN-Hall_24bus.ART.State.Edition1.3db1962.html
 
Which jobs continue to grow despite the recession?
Where can they be found?
Please read on.
+++++++++++++++
Jobs That Are Growing - Despite The Recession
San Francisco Chronicle
Don't miss Careers in Crisis: Three Industries Hit Hardest By Job Losses.) Baumlein doesn't see the demand for nurses slowing down anytime soon. ...
Read more at:
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/g/a/2010/03/24/investopedia43079.DTL
 

If you would like to learn more about us and the services we offer, then please visit www.sterlingcreations.ca
If you would like to keep abreast of some of the most important happenings affecting your lives today, then please visit http://www.sterlingcreationsdesk.blogspot.com.  There you will get the latest news roundups on such topics as:
Stress, anxiety, and depression. News for retirees, seniors, and aging baby boomers.  Security tips for home computer users.  Home business opportunities, Internet business opportunities, small business opportunities, business opportunities in Asia.  You will also learn how to obtain tremendous personal and financial satisfaction by selling your knowledge and experience.
 

 

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Your best American cities (Sunday edition)

Hey there!  It's your Sterling Creations team and today we have a special Sunday edition from our president; Donna J. Jodhan, your virtual travel agent.
Enjoy!
 
Your best American cities
 
1. Tempe Arizona
Looking for a great vacation spot?  Or maybe somewhere to escape the cold harsh winter?
Well, how about Tempe Arizona.
A city with lots to do. 
A great climate that is tempered by Tempe's closeness to lakes and rivers.
Sunshine all year round and a variety of outdoor activities at one's disposal.
One must make it a must to check out Tempe's wonderful shopping; from malls to flea markets, and those quaint little shops to anything you could think of.
Boating and hiking and so much more.
 
2. Pasadena California
If you are looking for a great alternative to living in Los Angeles, then look no further than Pasadena California.
A city that can offer you all that you desire.
From great shopping and fine dining, to rich entertainment and exciting night life.
Pasadena offers excellent opportunities for furthering one's education in the sciences; engineering and high tech.
There are lots of museums for you to visit, concerts to attend, and live shows to enjoy.
 
3. Tucson Arizona
If you are seeking a city where you can enjoy sunshine all year round, then you need to see and check out Tucson.
A city with natural beauty; mountain ranges and desert come together.
A city with lots of outdoor activities that range from biking and hiking to mountain climbing and skiing.
A city that offers upscale shopping and a ton of South Western charm.
 
4. Newark New Jersey
If your desire is to live in a city that brings you within hailing distance of New York City but you would prefer to not live in the latter, then Newark is for you.
A city with a thriving economy that is driven by insurance, finance, manufacturing, services, and transportation sectors.
A city that is also driven by urbanization and incentives that encourage the development of luxurious malls along with retail stores and shops.
Newark is the place to be if you prefer to live in less clutter and confusion while enjoying great employment and access to some of America's best universities and colleges.
 

I'm Donna J. Jodhan bidding you a happy travel time.
Visit me at www.sterlingcreations.ca if you would like to learn more.
Or send me an email at donnajodhan@sterlingcreations.ca.

Saturday, July 24, 2010

Call the number on your screen

Greetings!  I'm Scott Savoy, editor of writing services at www.sterlingcreations.ca.
Today, it's my first day back after a bit of a holiday and I am delighted to be back.
It's time for our editorial of the week; by our president Donna J. Jodhan and today Donna focuses on those commercials that do not audioally announce the numbers on the screen.
I wish you a terrific weekend.
 

Call the number on your screen
 
This is one of my pet peeves.  Every time an infomercial ends with the words "Call the number on your screen," it gets me very annoyed and disappointed to see that for the most part producers of these infomercials have sadly failed to take the needs of the sight impaired into consideration.  Maybe it could be just pure naviety on their part or maybe and just maybe, it could be that they honestly do not believe that sight impaired persons would be listening to these infomercials.
 
Whatever the reasons, the blind and sight impaired community needs to start speaking out on this subject.  We as a community need to work with producers to make infomercials more informative to those who are not just sight impaired, but to those who are print disabled.  There are many consumers out there who are unable to read the info on their TV screens due to such reasons as:  A learning disability, problems understanding texts in English because English is not their first language, and an inability to read quickly.
 
There are many infomercials out there that do announce the numbers on their screen but there are also too many out there that do not.  This is a call for infomercial producers to start producing infomercials that give out audio announcements of numbers and addresses on TV screens.  You would be surprised to learn how many more consumers you will be able to reach if you make this minor change. 
 
I'm Donna J. Jodhan wishing you a terrific day and weekend.
To reach me, please send an email to info@sterlingcreations.ca and I would be delighted to send you an electronic copy of our latest newsletter.
 
Here is a complete list of where you can view Donna's blogs and editorials.
Donna Jodhan!  Advocating accessibility for all
http://www.donnajodhan.blogspot.com 
Weekly blogs for language professionals and accessibility consultants
http://www.sterlingcreationsca.blogspot.com
A monthly editorial on issues on diversity
http://www.diversityintheworkplace.ca
 
 

Friday, July 23, 2010

Your best American cities

Hello there!  I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your virtual travel agent and I hope that everyone is enjoying their very warm summer.
Well, another weekend fast approaching and it's time for us to get ready for our virtual trip.  Time to buckle up and relax a bit.
Take a deep breath and let's get going.
Enjoy!
 
Week of  July 24 2010
 
Your best American cities
 
1. Oceanside California
If you are looking for a fresh new location that would take you away from those harsh winters then why not think of beautiful Oceanside California?
A city that is centrally located between San Diego and Los Angeles.
With soft sandy beaches, lots of opportunity to surf and ocean relax, and the chance to live in a large and spacious homes, Oceanside is the perfect place for you to consider.
Come visit and check out this southern California city that is often referred to as the jewel of southern California.
 
2. Pittsburg Pennsylvania
Here is a city with lots of attractions, features, and great homes for you to come and see.
Riverfront homes with fantastic views of the water.
Private log cabins, new and modern condos, sprawling estates, and great vacation homes.
Pittsburgh is rich in entertainment, fine dining, and excellent educational facilities.
All in all, a great city to visit and stay a while.
 
3. Rancho Cucamonga California
If you are seeking a city that offers a pleasant climate all year round, fantastic shopping, and a safety record that is second to none, then you have it all in the city of Rancho Cucamonga.
This city is blessed with top notch transportation; an airport that is within a stone's throw of down town Rancho Cucamonga, great entertainment, and excellent recreational facilities.
Come and enjoy skiing, mountain climbing, ocean sports, and desert activities; all at the same time.
 
4. Richmond Virginia
Looking for a city that offers you a chance to kick off your shoes, relax, and stay a while?
A city with a magnitude of home styles to choose from?
You can either choose to retire permanently in one of those handsome retirement homes or live in a modern condo.
You can make Richmond your home away from home or simply go there for a fine vacation.
Come and enjoy Richmond's rich entertainment, fine dining, and friendly neighborhoods.
 

I'm Donna J. Jodhan bidding you a happy travel time.
Visit me at www.sterlingcreations.ca if you would like to learn more.
Or send me an email at donnajodhan@sterlingcreations.ca.

Thursday, July 22, 2010

Double Discrimination Faced by Women With Disabilities in the Workplace

Greetings!  I'm Nico Trimoff, manager of transcription and accessibility services at www.sterlingcreations.ca.
I am back after a nice long holiday and it's time for me to get down to work.  Today, I have a very thought provoking article to share with you; one that I hope you find interesting. 
I wish you a great day.
 

+++++++++++++++
An online magazine article
 
Double Discrimination Faced by Women With Disabilities in the Workplace
 
March 15, 2010
 
In today's society, disability is equated to being an illness. Although
individuals with disabilities tend to face discrimination in society, the
Canadian government acknowledges the importance of shifting away from the
"stigma" and the biomedical approach when discussing disability. Their goal
is to provide individuals with disabilities with independent living, social
inclusion, control and social support. In order to achieve these goals,
many changes are needed to be made.
 
Over the years, the issue of gender discrimination has been frequently
addressed by the government and policy makers. As a result, new laws and
policies have been established in order to try and reach equality. In
today's society, however, although policies have been established, gender
discrimination still exists. On the other hand, double discrimination faced
by women with disabilities is not being addressed. People tend to discuss
gender differences but it is not very often related to disability. It is
almost as if society is not aware of the stigma that is associated with
disability which is created by society. Women in general have not reached
equality in the labour force and women with disabilities have not been given
justice.
 
The focus on "normality" and narrow standards of beauty make it more
difficult for women with disabilities to be recognized and included in
society. It is believed that "normal" means not to be different from those
who are in the able-bodied majority. This includes having a specific body
type and face, looking young, as well as being an able-bodied individual.
Society fears difference therefore it is referred to as "not normal".
Society also tends to pity those who are different and establishes various
assumptions regarding the capabilities of those with disabilities. Pressure
from society creates barriers and exclusion for women with disabilities.
Women with disabilities should be looked at the same way as everyone else;
there is no difference. They should be considered based on their
capabilities and not assumptions that are created by others. Women with
disabilities are capable of contributing to society if given the
opportunity. Society fails to see the full potential of those with
disabilities out of fear and thereby excludes them. Denying women with
disabilities this opportunity is similar to trying to hide them.
Individuals with disabilities should be integrated into society rather than
trying to segregate them.
 
Independence and participation are the key concepts in today's society. In
order to be independent and able to survive, one needs to be employed or
have some form of financial support. Employment in turn provides an income
that is necessary for survival but also a sense of belonging because of the
ability of giving back to society. Every individual strives towards
independence but it is difficult to achieve it especially for women with
disabilities. Women with disabilities are more likely to be employed in
low-status or lower paid jobs. This in itself has an influence on achieving
independence.
 
Employment means connecting with other people outside of home. Being
employed allows individuals with disabilities to socialize and meet new
people. Having people around enhances the quality of life of individuals.
Many of those women with disabilities who are employed find that being
employed engenders a sense of belonging, which has a positive influence on
their self-esteem. In general, being employed opens a door to many
opportunities. It is especially true for women with disabilities.
 
Although North America has rules and regulations in regards to employment of
individuals with disabilities, clearly it is not enough. The unfortunate
part is that most of these women do not speak up and if and when they do,
they are ignored. In order to implement specific policies and regulations
in regards to breaking down barriers for women with disabilities, these
women themselves have to be involved as advocates if they have proper
supports. What is problematic though, is that most women with disabilities
are excluded when it comes to decision making. Over the years women have
fought hard to be recognized in society and therefore at the present time it
is hard to envision when women would be included when it comes to policy
making. It is necessary to move towards the time when it will be hard to
imagine not including women with disabilities when it comes to policy
making.
 
Lack of accommodations and knowledge are two main components to exclusion
and isolation from the labour force. Some of the employers are not aware of
the importance of accommodating employees with disabilities. Lack of
knowledge about disability and the stigma that is affiliated with it
contributes to employment barriers. Having a law such as the 'duty to
accommodate' demonstrates that efforts are being made and Canada is shifting
towards becoming an equal opportunity type country. It was only 15 years
ago when employers were not legally expected to ensure that individuals with
disabilities were accommodated in their workplace. Having a law such as the
'duty to accommodate' can ensure that women with disabilities do not face
direct or adverse effect types of discrimination. However, in many cases,
most women with disabilities have faced direct discrimination.
 
Although the 'duty to accommodate' ensures that individuals with
disabilities are provided with employment that meets their capabilities, it
does not necessarily mean that the attitudes of others will go away. When
it comes to the workplace, many employers disregard these policies. Thus,
the issue that needs to be fully examined is why do employers disregard
legislation and what needs to be done to ensure that employers understand
the importance of such laws?
 
This is the issue that still needs to be carefully examined in order to
fully eliminate discrimination.
 
 

If you would like to learn more about us and the services we offer, then please visit www.sterlingcreations.ca
If you would like to keep abreast of some of the most important happenings affecting your lives today, then please visit http://www.sterlingcreationsdesk.blogspot.com.  There you will get the latest news roundups on such topics as:
Stress, anxiety, and depression. News for retirees, seniors, and aging baby boomers.  Security tips for home computer users.  Home business opportunities, Internet business opportunities, small business opportunities, business opportunities in Asia.  You will also learn how to obtain tremendous personal and financial satisfaction by selling your knowledge and experience.
 
 

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Google's Blogger Users Can Now Customize Their Designs

Greetings!  I'm Mark Micheau, manager of research and translation services at www.sterlingcreations.ca and I am back after a holiday.  It was great being off but it is even better to be back with you today and I hope that everyone is having a great summer 2010 thus far. 
You may  already be familiar with the news listed in the article below but it does not hurt for me to enforce it again.  So without much more ado, here it is.
I wish you a great day.
 
+++++++++++++++
A WebProNews article
Google's Blogger Users Can Now Customize Their Designs
Chris Crum | Staff Writer
 
Google Launches Blogger Template Designer
 
Google has launched the Blogger Template Designer, a way to customize the look and feel of your Blogger blog.
 
"Over the past few years we've worked to scale Blogger and ensure that it is capable of handling hundreds of millions of pageviews per day," Google says. "But we also believe that blogging is about self expression and that an important part of expression is creating a custom design that expresses your unique voice. So last year we started working on a tool that would allow everyone to easily customize their blog's look and feel, and today we're proud to introduce the Blogger Template Designer."
 

The Death (Or Redefinition) Of SEO Discussed - Click Here Now 
 
 
Features of the template designer include:
 
- 15 new templates (with more on the way)
- Custom blog layouts with one, two and three columns
- Hundreds of background images courtesy of iStockphoto
- Customizable colors, fonts, and more.
 
--
What other features would you like to see added to the template designer?
Let us know here
 
"While alternative offerings force users to choose among a limited set of rigid template designs, Blogger provides an intuitive yet powerful interface so anyone to customize their blog's design & layout - putting the user in complete control," the company says. It's interesting that this kind of customization has not been available from Blogger until 2010, as Blogger itself is over a decade old, and has been Google-owned since 2003.
 Gowalla 2.0 Launches for iPhone
Chris Crum | Staff Writer
 
Google Launches Blogger Template Designer
 
Gowalla is a service that has been getting a lot of buzz lately. If you're not familiar with it, it's a location-based social networksing service that comes in the form of mobile apps. Gowalla announced today, the availability of Gowalla 2.0 for the iPhone 3G and 3GS platforms.
 Gowalla highlights the following new features with this version:
 
- Design - Gowalla developers have created a fresh new experience that is more flexible, readable and usable.
 
- Photos - Gowalla 2.0 gives users the ability to not only check in and create new spots; they can also upload a photo after checking in, browse photos from friends and see photos taken at that spot.
 

- Checkin Commenting - Now when a friend checks in someplace, other users in the community are able to tell that friend what they think.
 
- Multiple checkin messages - Users now have more opportunities to add messages even after they've left a checkin spot. Skipped typing a message? Come back and add one.
 
- Hot spots - The most popular spots nearby will be highlighted for users in a particular area to discover.
 
- Browse friends - and friends of friends. Browsing friends' bookmarked spots and creating trips are two new features put in place by Gowalla's developers by popular demand.
 
- Facebook, Twitter and web links - Building your Gowalla network is easier than ever with more ways to stay connected with friends through Facebook, Twitter and web links.
 
- Spot details - Address, phone numbers, Twitter names, Facebook pages and website will now be available in several checkin spots.
 
Gowalla will be heavily involved in SXSW (of which WebProNews will be covering the Interactive portion). Gowalla has updated its SXSW mini-site that details all of the SXSW initiatives the company will be rolling out, including: real world rewards, competitions, challenges and events.
 
--
Will Gowalla be an iPhone app that you use frequently or at all?
Tell us here
 

If you would like to learn more about us and the services we offer, then please visit www.sterlingcreations.ca
If you would like to keep abreast of some of the most important happenings affecting your lives today, then please visit http://www.sterlingcreationsdesk.blogspot.com.  There you will get the latest news roundups on such topics as:
Stress, anxiety, and depression. News for retirees, seniors, and aging baby boomers.  Security tips for home computer users.  Home business opportunities, Internet business opportunities, small business opportunities, business opportunities in Asia.  You will also learn how to obtain tremendous personal and financial satisfaction by selling your knowledge and experience.
 
 

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Advantages of a Multilingual Website | Marketing Blogs ...

Advantages of a Multilingual Website | Marketing Blogs ...
By Donna J. Jodhan
 
The benefits to having a multi lingual website vastly outweighs the decision not to have one.  It does not really matter what type of business that you are in; it is really worth the effort to create a website that is at least available in one other language.
 
In the United States, the preference would be to have a website that is available in both English and Spanish and if you can afford it, then why not in Chinese?  In Canada it would be in English and French and having it in Chinese is also a great idea.  In Britain, the second language may be in any of the following languages:  A middle Eastern language, a popular East Indian dialect, or maybe even in French or Chinese. 
 
The importance of multi lingual websites is becoming more and more vital to any company wishing to attract global consumers and this trend is only going to spiral with time.  Why?  Because global trade and commerce will continue to expand for as long as we need to depend on each other for survival and that will be forever and a day.  I invite you now to
Read on.
 
+++++++++++++++
Advantages of a Multilingual Website | Marketing Blogs ...
Read more at:
http://www.albrowmarketing.com/  
 
I'm Donna J. Jodhan wishing you a terrific day.
Donna J. Jodhan is the president of Sterling Creations
Now you can view blogs and editorials written by Donna at:
http://www.donnajodhan.blogspot.com (Donna Jodhan!  Advocating accessibility for all)
http://www.diversityintheworkplace.ca (monthly editorial on issues concerning diversity)
http://www.onestopbookcafe.com (under the café talk link) 
http://www.sterlingcreationsdesk.blogspot.com (important answers to consumers concerns)
http://www.sterlingcreationsca.blogspot.com (blogs for language professionals and accessibility consultants)
 
   

Monday, July 19, 2010

Jobs and careers identified

Greetings everyone!  I'm Jill Christiansen, manager of writing services at www.sterlingcreations.ca.
Today, I have very important headlines for you and I invite you now to please read on.
 
Week of July 17
Jobs and careers identified
 
Are you ready to learn some new tricks and tips to help you crack the job barrier?
Not sure where to start?
Please read on.
Long Island Press
Jobs and Careers: It Might Be Time to Learn Some New Tricks
Long Island Press
Baby boomers can definitely land a great job, but they have to approach the entire job search process—resumes, cover letters, interviews, and how you look ...
Read more at:
http://www.longislandpress.com/2010/03/18/jobs-and-careers-it-might-be-time-to-learn-some-new-tricks/
 
Are you seeking some great job opportunities as an experienced boomer?
Would you like to know where to look?
Please read on.
Experienced Baby Boomers Search for Consulting and Contract Jobs
Custom Boomer Retirement Job Search Resources for Consulting and Contract Jobs · All Baby Boomer Retirement Job Search. Experienced Baby Boomers and other Retiree Job Seekers can quickly target job opportunities for our own experience ...
BabyBoomer-Magazine.com - Entertainme... -
http://www.babyboomer-magazine.com/ 
 
Do you know how to prepare your kids for the future?
Would you like some help?
Please read on.
Preparing kids for the future
Wayne Independent
"We have a looming crisis in our country as our young people entering the workforce do not have the skills needed to replace the Baby Boomers. ...
Read more at:
http://www.wayneindependent.com/news/x645470562/Preparing-kids-for-the-future
 
If you would like to learn more about us and the services we offer, then please visit www.sterlingcreations.ca
If you would like to keep abreast of some of the most important happenings affecting your lives today, then please visit http://www.sterlingcreations.com/businessdesk.htm.  There you will get the latest news roundups on such topics as:
Stress, anxiety, and depression. News for retirees, seniors, and aging baby boomers.  Security tips for home computer users.  Home business opportunities, Internet business opportunities, small business opportunities, business opportunities in Asia.  You will also learn how to obtain tremendous personal and financial satisfaction by selling your knowledge and experience.

Sunday, July 18, 2010

Your best American cities

Hey there!  It's Sunday and our president Donna has a little treat for you!
Enjoy!
 
 
Your best American cities
 
1. Orlando Florida
A city that never sleeps.  Not just for its many amusement parks, but also for its rich entertainment, excellent dining, and fantastic shopping.
Orlando is a city for all. 
With homes that range from luxurious estates to riverfront homes, and modern condos to handsome retirement homes.
Orlando is the perfect city for the retiree, the family, and the student.
 
2. Virginia Beach Virginia
Ah!  A city that gives you the opportunity to communicate with the ocean.
Come play with the dolphins or watch the Humback Whales in the winter.
Go surfing or para sailing.
Go fishing in the Gulf  Stream or if you prefer, you can golf on some of the best courses in America.
Make Virginia Beach your home away from home!
Or, make it your permanent home where you can live and work both at the  same time away from the stress and clutter of the bright lights of a large city.
 
3. Philadelphia Pennsylvania
If you are seeking a city that offers fantastic educational facilities to study law or medicine, then Philadelphia is it.
A city where you can definitely find your feet in the business world.
A city with lots of opportunity to grow and become your own person.
A city with an abundance of history, architecture, and diverse neighborhoods.
A city where you will never starve for there are tons of restaurants to choose from.
 
4. Fresno California
If you are looking for a city that brings you close to nature but at the same time you can enjoy all of the amenities of a large city, then this city is Fresno California.
A city with majestic mountains, clean sparkling rivers, peaceful lakes, and lush forests.
You can go hiking, biking, rock climbing, and white water rafting all year round.
You can enjoy excellent shopping, lots of fine dining, rich entertainment, and great night life.
If you prefer the quiet times, then there are the fruit tand blossom trails.
 
 
I'm Donna J. Jodhan bidding you a happy travel time.
Visit me at www.sterlingcreations.ca if you would like to learn more.
Or send me an email at donnajodhan@sterlingcreations.ca.

Saturday, July 17, 2010

The right to privacy

Greetings!  I'm Christian Robicheau, assistant editor of writing services at www.sterlingcreations.ca.
Today, I am pleased to be back with you after a nice long break and it's time for me to introduce an editorial by our president Donna J. Jodhan.  Today, Donna talks about the right to privacy for blind and partially sighted Canadians.
I wish you a great day and weekend.
 

The right to privacy
 
I do not believe that anyone would find it difficult to understand why it should be no different when it comes to the matter of blind and sight impaired persons demanding the right to privacy.  For after all, everyone these days is demanding it.  when it comes to being able to keep our personal information private, our banking details hidden from prying eyes, and everything else that one deems to be personal hidden from those ever potential dangerous scammers and schemers, everyone has the right to demand and receive total privacy. 
 
So much so that when I phone a customer service line and request that information be sent to me in a format that I can read, I expect it to be sent to me in my requested format; Braille, or in an electronic format that I can read.  I do not expect that a call taker or service rep would offer to send it to me in printed format nor do I expect them to tell me that I should ask a sighted neighbor, friend, or family member to read it to me.  Nor do I expect them to tell me that I can get sighted assistance to help me complete forms that contain my personal information.
 
Under the Canadian Charter of rights, all Canadians are guaranteed equal access to information; on the Internet, by phone, and in any other medium that is available.  Sending me forms in printed format does not guarantee my privacy; it infringes on my privacy and discriminates against me.  Asking me to complete a form in PDF format is also discriminating against my privacy because as a rule of thumb, blind and sight impaired persons are unable to interact with forms and files that are in PDF formats. 
 
I can almost guarantee you that if for some reason, a sighted person were somehow asked to share their information with a stranger, they would strongly object and in essence this is what happens each time we are asked to seek sighted assistance when it comes to customer service departments either unwilling or unable to provide us with forms and/or information in alternate formats.  For those of you who are not too familiar with the term alternate formats; these formats apply to information and/or forms being provided to the sight impaired in any of the following formats:  Braille, large print, electronic text that excludes PDF, and audio.
 
It is time for the blind and sight impaired community in Canada to start pushing harder for all forms of government as well as for federally and provincially regulated agencies and companies to provide us with forms and information in alternate formats.  Anything less is a direct infringement to our privacy and under the Canadian Charter of Rights, this is illegal.
 

I'm Donna J. Jodhan wishing you a terrific day and weekend.
To reach me, please send an email to info@sterlingcreations.ca and I would be delighted to send you an electronic copy of our latest newsletter.
 
Here is a complete list of where you can view Donna's blogs and editorials.
Donna Jodhan!  Advocating accessibility for all
http://www.donnajodhan.blogspot.com 
a weekly feature on important answers to consumers concerns
http://www.sterlingcreationsdesk.blogspot.com
Weekly blogs for language professionals and accessibility consultants
http://www.sterlingcreationsca.blogspot.com
A monthly editorial on issues on diversity
http://www.diversityintheworkplace.ca

Friday, July 16, 2010

Your best American cities

Hello there!  I'm Donna J. Jodhan, your virtual travel agent and today I am delighted to be back with yu after a nice vacation.
I missed our travels but it's time for us to resume our adventures.  I received lots of feedback during my absence and I thank you for all of it.  So without much more delay, buckle up and let's put on our hinking caps and get our imagination juices going.
Enjoy and have fun.
 
Week of July 17 2010
 
Your best American cities
 
1. Kansas City Missouri
If you are really in love with Europe but are unable to afford to either live or visit, then look no further than the picturesque city of Kansas City.
With its hundreds of fountains, similar to the city of Rome, and its many wide boulevards that closely resemble Gai Paris, Kansas City exudes natural beauty.
This city has some of the cleanest flowing water to be found in America.
It offers excellent health care facilities and educational institutions and its home styles range from the old and historic to the new and modern. 
Neighborhoods vary from the urban to the suburban and its cost of living is way below the national average.
 
2. Madison Wisconsin
If you are looking for the perfect college town in which to live, study, and work, then you have it all in Madison.
A beautiful city surrounded by peaceful lakes.
This city ranks tops in universities, and university sports.
Madison has top notch health care, education, and great employment opportunities in the health care and high tech industries.
You can enjoy rowing, swimming, and fishing in the summer and play ice hockey, go ice skating and cross country skiing in the winter.
 
3. Modesto California
Are you seeking a change in pace?
In a city that is far away from the clutter and confusion of a larger city?
One that will enable you to communicate more closely with nature?
In a city that offers you healthy living in a valley that is close to a river?
A city where the sun never stops shining, and where you can go rafting, biking, and hiking?
Then that city is Modesto California.
Modesto is primarily an agricultural city with healthy living and a quiet life style.
Home styles range from the modern condo to the sprawling farm, and from the comfortable suburban home to urban living.
 
4. Norfolk Virginia
If you are seeking a city with a bit of everything then you have it all in the beautiful city of Norfolk Virginia.
A city with lots to do; great entertainment and fine dining.
Excellent educational facilities and a wealth of real estate at your disposal.
Norfolk has something for everyone that range from magnificent riverfront homes to luxurious estates.  Modern condos to rustic log cabins and handsome retirement homes to vacation getaways.
 

I'm Donna J. Jodhan bidding you a happy travel time.
Visit me at www.sterlingcreations.ca if you would like to learn more.
Or send me an email at donnajodhan@sterlingcreations.ca.