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2 The Inspiring News Magazine April/May 2011

From The Publisher’s DeskAs we move officially into the spring our thoughts are with those less fortunate around the world who are dealing with devastating circumstances. We hope our Inspiring News Magazine brings inspiration, hope and education into the lives of those who have an opportunity to read the articles and learn more about other community projects.Inspiring Kids Today was founded on the premise of helping to inspire, motivate and education kids and parents to be the best they can be and to promote the idea of kids chasing and catching their dreams. So many great things have happened over the past several months and we look forward to growing to help enrich the lives of others.We want to see kids grow into positive, healthy, happy, successful and contributing members of society. To inspire would be an understatement. We want to energize the parent-child relationship so that (a) it empowers parents to recognize that kids begin to plan their lives early and (b) it empowers kids to develop their Dream-Plan early by setting small goal steps, and becoming personally involved in chasing and catching their own Dreams.Every kid has a ‘Champion within’ waiting to be discovered! Champions are regular people who build their confidence, work hard, chase and catch their Dreams. They are not born Champions, they are made. Champions come in all ages, genders, shapes and sizes. Let’s help kids discover their Champion within help them achieve something special in their life. As adults, think about your own journey! When did you start dreaming your dreams? More importantly, when did you stop chasing your dreams? Join us in helping to inspire, motivate and educate kids to be the best they can be so they can chase and catch their Dreams.

Jim Scott James D. ScottCo-founder Co-founderInspiring Kids Today Inspiring Kids Today

Our Social Mission“The Inspiring News Magazine aims not only to educate, motivate and inspire parents, families and kids, but also to provide them with information and resources that foster their success.”

Our Vision Bringing families & business together by distributing The Inspiring News Magazine to every home across the world-wide-web, that has a computer.

Design and LayoutKB and I ServicesPublication: The Inspiring News Magazine is published monthly.Distribution: The Inspiring News Magazine is available through world-wide-web distribution to thousands of homes and growing daily; through our website, our social networks (family, friends, sponsors and associates) and their social networks.Editors:Straight Edge Communications (Jodi)Stephanie SpencerAutumn V. ScottWriters: Curtis Sindrey, Sheldon Martin, Wendy Hinbest, Tanya Alton, Roseitta Isaacs, Diane O`Reilly, Steve Pike, Crissy Schneider, Keith Lamson, Bryan McComb, Stephanie Spencer.Publication Policy: The Inspiring News Magazine receives the right to refuse advertising or article submissions.Advertising Inquiries: Visit us online at www.inspiringkidstoday.com to learn more.Article Submission Inquiries: Contact Jim Scott at [email protected] to learn more.Special Mention To:KB&I Services Backspin Marketing Group ProEm Straight Edge Communications AB Social Media Solutions

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The Inspiring News Magazine April/May 2011 3

One of the things that getting my black belt in Taekwondo taught me was how important chasing and catching our dreams are. At the age of five years old I started training at Taekwondo and three years later I was awarded my black belt in Taekwondo. Some weeks I was training like five days but I really liked the challenge.What I learned was that each belt I was training and testing for was a small goal, towards the larger goal of getting my black belt. Man, some days it was hard. Some days I didn’t even want to go train. My parents said it would be worth it in the end. Even though I wasn’t sure, in the end they were right.I really built my confidence where I even can do speeches about Taekwondo and the benefits for kids and adults.It is important to have a dream and chase it. More importantly, it is important to have a plan with small goals on your journey to the bigger goal.Remember: “Never give up, try again.”Maybe martial arts is not your thing. Maybe its singing, dancing, soccer (I love soccer too), acting, hockey, basketball, climbing a mountain, or whatever. Regardless of what your dream is, pursue it and start early. Champions

have dreams and hold onto their dreams because they believe virtually everything is possible, especially if they try hard and apply themselves to chasing and catching their dreams.If you have no desire or goals then what is it all about? Everyone needs dreams and should have a Dream-Plan to help them to chase and catch their dreams. The champion in you will help you to start to reveal your talents. I believe it is good to develop your talents early on. After all, how cool is to WOW people with your awesome talents, especially at a young age.Chasing dreams may seem like too much work. But TRUST ME when I tell you, keep at it, don’t give up, and keep trying.Get help: ask your parents, guardian, family member(s), sibling(s), teacher, coach, friend(s) to help you to develop your plan to chase and catch your dreams. The champion in you is placed deep within you, like a beautiful diamond, waiting to be explored, polished and celebrated. If you need help, send me an e-mail and I will help inspire and motivate you.

By James D. Scott

Chasing yourdreams early

“Happy are those who dream dreams and are ready to pay the price to make them come true.” - Leon J. Suenes

What’s your purposeWritten by Diane O’Reilly ACG, ADHD coach

I just got back from having a coffee with one of my coaching buddies, We were talking about the importance of living life to your fullest potential, being true to who you are, knowing what your purpose is... these are all questions that we challenge our clients to answer, in order to help them live the life of their dreams.

We were both wondering how much that purpose comes across in our own work…and I can tell you that one on one, yes it comes across, but in print or on my website, before you have even met me... I have to say no, It does not come across. So I would like to take a step to amend that today, here in this article.

I cannot tell you what my purpose is without firstly telling you, who I am and how I got here.

First of all I am a woman with ADD and a parent to 4 wonderful boys, 3 of whom share my unique brain wiring, but before motherhood and finding out about my ADD, I underwent an even bigger transformation in my twenties when I discovered and recovered from addiction , I have been sober now for over 20 years and have learned so much about addiction and recovery in that time. What has become clear to me along the way is that my addiction grew out of my untreated ADD, my family

of origin is littered with ADD and addiction; statistically you are twice as likely to be an addict if you have untreated ADD.

So, my purpose is “To take all my negative experiences with ADD and Addiction and put them to good use helping others.” I feel strongly that people with ADD can avoid that path, or else if they are not managed, there is still time to live the life of their dreams.

With my experience and my expertise I am in a unique position to help, in fact I have noticed that a lot of my adult clients that come to me for help with their ADD do struggle with addiction too.

By owning this part of my story, I am being more authentic and living what I believe my purpose is through my work

Written by Diane O’Reilly ACG, ADHD life coach, www.indigotreecoaching.com


By the time kids enter their adolescent year’s parents expect their children to keep track of school work. While it is right to encourage independence by handing the responsibility over to your children, parents at times may feel their parenting work is done with respect to school work.

During the teen years, kids are still developing mentally and need assistance from parents. They are developing the self-control and positive work habits necessary to succeed in school and in life. As they get older, parents can hand more and more of the responsibility to their teens, however, parental monitoring and supervision is required to ensure the work is getting done and that there are no concerns with progress. The trick is to stay involved while nurturing their independence.

By keeping track of your teen’s school work, you are not only showing an interest in the school work itself, but also in your child. School is an important and a major part of children’s lives. This is the place where they will develop life skills, such as communication skills, social skills, work ethic, etc. Your attention will vastly

improve your child’s school performance and your interest and guidance will have an enormous impact on your child’s attitude towards him/herself and his/her schoolwork, ability to perform, self-esteem, confidence, success and independence.

Your attention is their reward.

Tips To Help You Stay Involved With Your Child’s School Work

Find Out The Deadlines: What are the deadlines for projects, exams, assignments, and other important school work? Write them down in the family calendar. This will allow you to keep up with what is going on in your child’s school work and it will remind you to ask them about their progress.

Show Interest In The Content: By showing interest in the content you’ll encourage your teen to pay attention to what s/he is learning. You will model an attitude of interest to your teen.

Follow Up On Missed Work During Absences: From time to time your child will be absent from school. Follow up with your

teen on the first day back to school to know what they have missed or if they need any help grasping the information since they missed out on the lesson. They will notice and appreciate the extra attention (even if they don’t show it or say they don’t want it).

Contact Teacher If Necessary: If you are feeling lost with respect to the school work, feel free to contact the teacher and get more information. You’ll be teaching your teen that it is right to ask for help if something is not understood.

Create Suitable Study Environment: A suitable studying environment will not only help your child eliminate distractions but will help him/her learn and retain the material. It will also help your child attain organizational skills, positive habits, and a good work ethic.

Ivana Pejakovic B.Sc., MA Teen Life Coach & Mentor LifeSense Coaching

Parental Involvement: Pay Attention To Your Teens Homework and School PerformanceBy Ivana Pejakovic

“Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up” ~ Thomas Edison


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NC)—One in three Canadian families cannot afford to enrol their children in organized sport or recreation activities because of financial barriers (Ipsos-Reid 2009).For 16-year-old Abigail, her family‟s limited budget was stretched by a parent illness that required travel across the province for treatment.“It was tough to explain to her why we couldn‟t afford to have her in basketball for the next season,” said Abigail‟s mom, Carrie Fogg. “The last thing we wanted was to keep her off the court because she just loves playing ball and finds such joy in it.”Kids who are able to participate in organized sport and recreation, outside of school hours, gain many short and long term benefits including: increased self-esteem, greater self-confidence, leadership skills, and better grades.“Participation equips a child for life and the benefits of play go far beyond their childhood years,” said Nicole Forrester, Olympian and the reigning Canadian Champion in the high jump. “Programs like Canadian Tire Jumpstart are dedicated to removing barriers so financially disadvantaged children can participate in organized sport and recreation.”Despite the financial hardships many Canadian parents are facing, there is a way to get kids into the game, no matter what

barrier. By covering the cost of registration, equipment and/or transportation, Canadian Tire Jumpstart has helped more than 315,000 children like Abigail get in the game.“On the court she gets to work out things that are overwhelming for her,” said Abigail‟s mom. “She found some happiness in a really tough time. She has a gift and Jumpstart has helped in the development of that gift.”Visit www.canadiantire.ca/jumpstart to learn more or lend your support by shopping at Canadian Tire on May 28: national Jumpstart Day.www.newscanada.com

miss out on sportsOne in Three Canadian Kids


Our online store is now live for your convenience. Go to our website at www.inspiringkidstoday.com and click on the online store icon. You will find beautiful Inspiring Kids Today promotional items. Order today, take advantage of the great items and support our programs at the same time.We would like to thank Backspin Marketing Group for their support in

designing, implementing and helping manage our online store. Check out their contact information on their ad posted on this page.Continue to visit our online store regularly as we will be adding more exciting products to our inventory.If you have any questions or ideas about our online store, please send them to Jim at [email protected].

our e-Commerce Store

Similarly to other sports, Tennis has many benefits; health, fitness, and social, all this regardless of age, gender, and level of play. Community tennis is very affordable and presents great value to local families. When in many sports the divisions of ages and genders can limit the interaction, in tennis it is more common to play it all together. On some designated days, the club volunteers and professionals will

organize “Family Night”. Children, their parents and sometimes other members

of the family are spending time together on the court. While in this case, winning a trophy is not in perspective, the spirit and joy from being with other families is the winner and a trophy itself. This is great benefit to all participants and to the community.In the last years progressive tennis as well as some modern methodology made tennis much more user friendly and more

attractive. More children can not only be introduced to the sport but as they learn they become committed. Therefore, with regular practice some fitness aspects, meeting new friends and improving tennis skills can all be achieved. The picture of a tennis lesson has changed. More variety of classes like; cardio-tennis, fitness-tennis, provide for great health and fitness package in addition to pure fun and social aspect.For once, as Milton Tennis Club is open and inviting to all community members and all levels of play, tennis is a sport for a lifetime! Fun, friendly and healthy for the whole family! Is your family with us yet?........Welcome!Andre Szczurowski MTC Head Pro York University, Advanced Coaching Certificate Tennis Canada Certified Coach

at Community ClubThe BenefiTs Of Tennis

By Andre Szczurowski

Kickin’ ItAn Ant i-Bul ly ing Campaign

Kickin’ It is a collaborative anti-bullying campaign founded by Inspiring Kids Today with the goal of recognizing ‘Bullying as a Crime’ in our society. We are working with strategic stakeholders and sponsors to lobby members of the Ontario Government to pass appropriate legislation so that kids, parents, families, educators, and police services have the necessary tools to deal with bullying and eradicate it.

“Today, families dealing with bullying are becoming too common of a dilemma with limited results in resolving the matter appropriately. According to Public Safety Canada, 20% of kids surveyed in elementary schools reported being victimized more than once or twice in a term, while 10-15% of students in high schools reported being bullied at least once a week. Bullying can come in many forms where unwanted acts by the bully, towards the intended victim, can include (but not limited to): physical assaults, personal threats, name calling, intimidation, verbal insults, negative rumours, peer pressure, cyber bullying, and inappropriate gossiping - none of which are welcomed in any way by the victim.”

Because there is no formal legislation to protect our children from bullying, it is one of the most difficult issues that kids, families, educators and police services face. It is imperative that we join together because ‘Bullying is a crime’ and will not stop by itself. Our Campaign takes a stand against bullying...Kickin’ It for good.

our Services

In order to help stop bullying we believe we must engage both the victim and the offender (and their families) in a process of healing, and accountability. Our team of professionals are solution-focused in their approach to helping victims and offenders move beyond the act of bullying, with:

• Support • Counselling • Consultancy • Program Development• Youth Justice Advocacy • Victim Impact Statements • Case Management • Community Referrals • Aftercare

For more information on our services please contact Jim Scott at (905) 872-4772 or e-mail him at [email protected]

Sponsors

We appreciate the support of individuals, families, agencies and businesses who are joining with us as sponsors because we share a common belief: bullying must stop, and it must stop NOW!

When you become a sponsor of Kickin’ It, you join a community of concerned citizens working together at a grass-roots level to create a VOICE that ensures we continue to protect our kids from all forms of bullying, allowing them to grow and develop so they can chase and catch their dreams. Healthy kids are happy kids!

Individuals, families, agencies, and businesses can become sponsors of the Kickin’ It anti-bullying campaign. Check out the registration form to learn about how you can benefit from you sponsorship contribution.

(Inspiring Kids Today is a dynamic and progressive community organization that is committed to educating, motivating and inspiring kids & parents to be the best they can be, with a focus on kids and healthy hearts.)

KB&I Services


Did you know that Ontario has its very own JUNIOR CANADIAN AUTO RACING Series? Referred to as JCAR, the Series gives young drivers the opportunity to feel the excitement of auto racing in a fun, safe, and in expensive environment. Competitors ages 8 years and up are invited to participate.The JCAR series consists of ten weekend travel races throughout the summer months at hosting tracks across Ontario; specifically Varney, Barrie, Sauble Beach, Flamboro, Grand Bend, and Delaware. The JCAR Series consists of two divisions; Competitors from 8 to 17 years of age in a solid 9hp car and Competitors 17 years and up in a 13hp suspended car and/or trucks. Designed as a Spec-Car series, the emphasis is on safety, driver skills, and learning, not the racing budget. Spending more money will not buy you more performance, but being a better driver and having a well setup car will. Safety is a top priority with JCAR, which is why series cars are equipped with special safety equipment, including a full roll cage, a fuel cell, a five point safety harness, and a racing seat. The cars competing in the JCAR series vehicles are half-scale replicas of late model stock cars and trucks. These race cars are powered by 9hp, or 13hp Honda engines. All cars and trucks are built mechanically identical. The late model car and truck chassis are built at the JCAR Fabrication shop. All other components are specially selected and specified for JCAR race cars. Only approved components

are allowed. The engines are dyno tested, performance equalized, and sealed. Tough scrutiny ensures equal competition. Each car rides on spec. miniature racing tire. Bodies for the JCAR series are made by Performance Fiberglass. Three body styles are available for both cars and trucks. Competitors can choose from a Chevrolet, Dodge, or Ford body.With the completion of each event, points and cash prizes are awarded according to finishing positions. Several contingency prizes are also drawn and presented at each race. The season culminates with grand prize awards to the overall point’s leaders. The JCAR series has been developed to present young and/or inexperienced drivers an opportunity to hone their skills. Traveling to different race tracks throughout South-Western Ontario gives the drivers a chance to test his/her skills on a variety of different courses, plus offer car sponsors great exposure. More importantly, kids can have a whole lot of fun in an exciting, fast-paced and unique activity!

RIDESCool

Whether you’re a car connoisseur or a first time car owner, you still need to know the basics. So, here’s a few tips to help you out:• Oil plays a very important part in car maintenance. Make sure you

have the right and proper kind of oil needed for your car• It’s crucial to check and verify that your lights are functioning, clean

and working• Parking lights, brake lights, emergency flashers and fog lights are vital

to your safety• Remember to check the air in your tires from time to time t make sure

that they have enough air pressure (check the owner’s manual)• Don’t let the engine idle for more than a minute or two, especially on

cold morning start-ups• Have your tires rotated every 10,000 miles. This will ensure that your

tires are working properly and will prevent wear and tear• Check the tire valve stems for cracks Or damage and make sure all

valve stems are capped tightly to minimize air loss

• Make sure you have enough anti-freeze in your radiator• Make sure that you have enough windshield washer fluid in your

windshield washer fluid container• When driving, always be ware of the drivers around you and be carefulHope these tips are helpful!Autumn V. is a grade 9 auto student, is an a+ student in this course, is passionate about auto, and will write the Cool Rides and Auto Care Tip columns each month.

TEN SIMPLE CAR CARE TIPSby Autumn V.

by Autumn V.


Jeremiah 31:33

But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD; I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts.

And I will be their God, and they shall be my people.

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5 SIMPLE wAyS To INCREASE youR CoMPANy’S SoCIAL MEDIA PRESENCE, wIThouT uSINg SoCIAL MEDIA

So your company has jumped into the world of social media and everything is going well. Your content is rich, you’re monitoring, mea-suring and you’ve hired a community manager to make sure things are running smoothly on a daily basis. But, good content and a solid strategy will only take you so far. To re-ally kick-start your social media campaign and increase your compa-ny’s social media presence and followi ng, you need to leverage some simple, traditional forms of promotion to maximize your social media efforts.What does that mean exactly?It’s simple; your social media campaign shouldn’t exist within a vacuum. You need to use your other promotional and communica-tions efforts to boost your social media presence.Here are 5 simple ways to increase your company’s social media pres-ence: 1. Email blast Surely your company has a database of contacts that have either expressed interest in your company or have you somewhere on their radar. So, make use of it. When your social media efforts start rolling and you’re proud to share what you’ve started, send a simple email blast to all your contacts, informing everyone of your new microsite, blog, Facebook page, Twitter account, etc. Then, ask them to follow you and engage with your company online. 2. Pepper your company website with links Use your existing corporate site to help promote your new social media efforts. Add links on your homepage, About Us page and Contact sec-tion to your social media products. “For more information on …….. visit our Facebook page.”“Follow us on Twitter for more product information and promotions”Etc.3. Update your business cardsYou hand out cards all the time, so why not make them work a little harder for you? Someone willing to accept your card will probably be willing to follow or visit your company online. In the contact area of

your business cards, add your Twitter handle, Facebook page url, Blog url, Microsite url, LinkedIn profile, etc. 4. Make use of your digital email signature Your digital email signature contains corporate info and your contact information, so why not add your Twitter handle or Facebook page? It’s quite simple and most people receiving your emails will see what social media sites you’re currently using. You increase your presence online with every email sent.5. Offer promotional incentivesWhether your company offers products or services, you are obvi-ously selling something. And since customers love sales, offer a 15% discount; a buy-one, get –one deal; or various other promotional coupons in exchange for a simple retweet, like, link or friend request. Even if you only have 100 followers on Twitter, send out a tweet that says something like “RT this and receive a 15% off coupon for ……” Now, that tweet may only reach 100 people, but once retweeted, your presence is exponentially expanded. Then, just send that Retweeter a coupon via Direct Message. See, it’s really quite simple to leverage ‘things you’re already doing’ to help increase your social media presence. You don’t need to be extra-social-media-saavy to increase your online presence.

by Andrew Bartucci


1. Protect Your Head. Wear a Helmet.

• Never ride a bicycle without wearing a properly fitted helmet. Helmets are proven to be 85-88 percent effective in preventing traumatic brain injury, the primary cause of death and disabling injuries resulting from cycling crashes.

• Once you have the right helmet, you need to wear it the right way so it will protect you. It should be worn level and cover your forehead. Don’t tip it back so your forehead is showing.

• The straps should always be fastened. If the straps are flying, it’s likely to fall off your head when you need it most. Make sure the straps are adjusted so they’re snug enough that you can’t pull or twist the helmet around on your head.

• Take care of your bike helmet and don’t throw it around. That could damage the helmet and it won’t protect you as well when you really need it

2. Ensure Proper Size and Function of Bicycle.

• Use a bicycle that fits you.

• Stand over the top of your bicycle–there should be 1-2 inches of clearance between you and the tube (bar) and 5 inches of clearance if riding a mountain bike.

3. Ensure that the Bike is in proper working and safe condition.

• Check all parts of the bicycle to make sure they are secure and working well.

• Handlebars should be firmly in place and turn easily.

• Wheels must be straight and secure. Quick release wheels must be secured.

• Brakes need adjusting by an experienced technician if: you cannot stop quickly; you apply the hand brake levers and they touch the

handlebars.

• Check your tires to make sure they have enough air and the right amount of tire pressure.

4. Ride Wisely. Learn and Follow the Rules of the Road.

• Bicyclists are considered vehicles on the road and must follow traffic laws that apply to motor vehicles.

• Always ride with traffic and obey traffic lights, signs, speed limits, and lane markings.

• Signal in advance of a turn; use correct hand signals so others can anticipate your actions.

• Yield to pedestrians and other vehicles, as appropriate.

• Check for traffic by looking left-right-left before entering a street.

• Control your speed by using your brakes. If your bicycle has hand brakes, apply the rear brakes slightly before the front brakes.

• Never carry another person on your bicycle.

5. Be Predictable. Act Like a Driver of a Vehicle.

• Older children and adults are safest riding on the road where the behaviours and responsibilities should be the same as all vehicle operators.

• Always ride with the flow of traffic, on the right side of the road, and as far to the right of the road as is practicable and safe. Motorists do not expect to see traffic coming in the opposite direction or on the sidewalk.

• Ride straight and do not swerve in a lane or in and out of traffic.

6. Be Visible. See and Be Seen at All Times.

• Always assume you are not seen by others. Cyclists must take responsibility for being visible to motorists, pedestrians, and other cyclists.

• To enhance your visibility at night and in low visibility conditions (dawn, dusk, and inclement weather): Wear neon and fluorescent colors.

• Wear special clothing made from reflective materials, for example, retro-reflective vests, jackets, wristbands, and patches for your back, legs and arms, and helmet.

• Install bicycle reflectors on both the front and back of your bicycle.

• If a carrier is added, make sure the rear reflector is visible. A flashing red light on the rear of the bicycle, backpack, or helmet will increase your visibility to others.

• Always use hand signals when turning or stopping

• Look out for cars at cross street, driveways, and parking places. Be careful when checking traffic and don’t swerve when looking over your shoulder less likely to run into you.

7. Dress Right

• You’ll also want to make sure that nothing will get caught in your bike chain, such as loose pant legs, backpack straps, or shoelaces.

• Wear the right shoes when you bike. Sandals, flip-flops, shoes with heels, and cleats won’t help you grip the pedals. And never go riding barefoot!

• Riding gloves may help you grip the handlebars — and make you look like a professional!

• But avoid wearing headphones because the music can distract you from noises around you, such as a car blowing its horn so you can get out of the way.

BIkE SAfETyBy keith Lamson, operation Safety

Having a hard time getting the kids to take a walk? Make it an adventure by taking them landmark hunting. “Going for a walk” can sound boring to kids, but if you are on a mission to go out and track down historic plaques and landmarks, a walk is transformed into an exciting scavenger hunt. There’s no need to tell them it’s good exercise and an excellent learning opportunity. That can be our little secret.

Websites like Markeroni.com help you find historic sites and landmarks in your area and log the ones you visit. You can meticulously plan

your landmark hunting expedition or be spontaneous and explore –whatever suits your style. To heighten their involvement, seek specific landmarks that relate to the child’s interests such as sports, scientific discoveries, literature, or aviation. Or just marvel at some of the weird and wonderful subjects commemorated. Tracking your progress helps motivate kids and parents alike and creates lasting memories of the fun your family has exploring history together. So get out there and let history be your guide!

hISToRyLetby Stephanie Spencer

the BenefItS of aCtIng ClaSSeS for KIdS…By Jim Scott

James (9 years old) has been a member of Carolyn’s Kids and has enjoyed this experience tremendously. He has had an opportunity to be in front of the camera several times, each time building his acting and modeling career.

This experience has helped James further develop his self-confidence as well as a unique and exciting way for him to express himself in front of the camera. For parents who are looking for fun and creative ways of helping to develop their kids, while giving them a unique opportunity, acting may be one option for them.

Acting can provide the opportunity to help your kid, from any age. A core skill is in developing their self-confidence, helping him or her to express their feelings and emotions. Kids can also acquire leadership, presentation and communication skills that will serve them throughout their lives. Acting and performing can help all types of kids, no matter what their personal style. Shy kids are given the opportunity to open up and feel more positive! Gifted kids find an outlet for their creativity and energy!

Through acting, kids can learn to create their own success by letting go of fear and releasing their natural self-expression. Kids gain confidence, learn to think on their feet, expand creativity, improve social skills, and become more comfortable with handling new situations and transitions in their lives. Kids can become ‘photogenic’ in front of the camera. They can learn to read a script out loud. Their self-motivation is another key factor which is worked on during acting class. This is one factor which definitely leads towards success. It allows the kids to express themselves and let go of any nervousness they may have. Working as a team, giving support

to each other, building trust, and leading others, are also skills learned in acting classes. Acting is also about developing the kid’s personality. They get to build a presence as well as a portfolio. As they develop their portfolio opportunities may include: commercials television, radio, and print roles.

One thing to keep in mind is these opportunities can come very quickly, can take a while, and in some cases, not happen at all. There are a variety of circumstances involved and Carolyn’s Kids staff can instruct you on all the particulars. Please remember to be realistic. Your kid will not be Tom Cruise over night. Be realistic with your expectations. You can hope that great things happen, but like I said, don’t expect it right away. This is about your kid(s) learning to be the best they can be, and how these skills can enhance them, short and long-term, in their lives.

So go ahead—sign up your kid for acting classes with Carolyn’s Kids. Your kid will get good at accepting criticism of his or her acting abilities, helping to further enrich their young lives, but more importantly, learn to hear and deal with that dreaded word ‘no.’ And even if your kid does not decide not to pursue an acting career, the classes will help build his or her confidence in whatever field they choose in the future.

TV Commercials, Movies, Catalogues and more! Carolyn’s Kids have represented their actors and models for over 20 years (kids, teens and adults). They were voted # 1 as a talent/modeling agency. If you think your kid has got what it takes to read lines and bring them to life, you should consider contacting Carolyn’s Kids to get more information.

be your guide

Head Office1965 Britannia Road West, Suite 210Mississauga, ON L5M 4Y4

All appointments and open calls are at our Mississauga Head Office.2104 Yonge Street Toronto, ON M4A 2A5

Phone: 905-542-8885 ~ Phone: 416-544-0232Fax: 905- 542-8887 Email: [email protected]


In part two, I quoted one of my mentors, “You become the architect of your own future by the words you speak now”. Are you using your words to create and design a positive or negative force in your lives? If you are, all the best to you and may you continue using your words to create an environment that is positive, uplifting and empowering. I encourage you on this journey and cheer you on whole-heartedly. If you are not, I still encourage you and cheer you on whole-heartedly to start the journey. Use your words to speak positively, encourage, build up, edify, and uplift yourself and others around you. It is not too late and the good news is that you can start NOW. For it’s not how or when you start that matters most, it matters most how you finish.

Your words are powerful! What you say can determine your destiny. You reap the consequences of what you say, whether positive or negative, good or bad, in faith or doubt. Proverbs 18:21 reminds us that “death and life are in the power of the tongue”. Change your words and you start changing your life. In a society of instant gratification we need everything instantly. However, it might be very hard to see the results of your empowering words right away. You may have given this a try and are saying or thinking – I have spoken positively about myself and to others for a week now and what is the result or difference? Nothing. Let me encourage you to stick with it and in time, you will see the harvest of what you speak. Stay committed and you will see the powerful results of what you speak. The choice is yours to speak positively or negatively. What I can assure you is that either way you will see results.

If you have planted seeds to grow a plant, you cannot dig it up every day to see how much it has grown. Water the seeds and as the roots begin growing and take hold, the plant starts blossoming. Likewise, water your life with positive and uplifting words and you will see the results. The law of sowing and reaping will not fail as it is a universal truth. Water and nourish your life with positive words.

Perhaps you find it too difficult to start or don’t know where or how to start this process. You can use these simple affirmations to build yourself up and change the pattern of what you speak. Change it, add to it, or come up with your own list. This is just to get you started. You can also use it to affirm your life. Your self-talk and what you say to yourself sets the foundation for this journey. Don’t tear yourself down; instead build yourself up. Slowly erase fear and doubt and replace it with faith and a ‘can-do-it’ mentality. Here are some affirmations: I am positive, I am talented, I am creative, I am strong, I am confident, I am disciplined, I am grateful, I am blessed, and I am well-able. Say them slowly and meaningfully. These can

also be expanded into sentences. For example, I believe in myself and my abilities, I always focus on the positive, I only speak positively to myself and others, etc.

In closing, I leave you with this simple take-away: there is phenomenal POWER in the Spoken Word! Speaking in a manner that is kind, loving, caring, positive, uplifting and encouraging – this is my choice. Now, it’s your turn – what is your choice?

The Power of the Spoken word (Part3)By Sheldon Martin



PRoMoTINg New Business

New Business

About Us....

We are a couple of Mom’s who have a passion for doing arts & crafts. After spending hours making Christmas Cards with our children, we thought how nice it would be to have the cards professionally printed to send to friends & family and then how great it would be to offer this as a service to others.

We spent most of 2010 designing and creating ‘Cookie Cutter Cards’. At the end of 2010 we opened our doors and successfully printed Christmas cards to over 250 families.

The part of our business we love the most is seeing the look of joy on the children’s faces when they see the finished product – Its priceless!!

What we do....

We are all about creative fun with a difference, we allow budding Pica-ssos of all ages to participate in creating their own greeting cards, post-cards, calendar’s and placemats. It does not matter how old or young you are, even tiny babies can use their hands & feet to create artwork!

Our aim is two fold... Allowing children to express their creativity, whilst raising funds for their school/organization.

It’s really simple. You create your own masterpiece, which is repro-duced onto professionally printed greeting cards, postcards, calendars or placemats. All our projects have fundraising capabilities; our proj-ects in particular generate substantial revenue for schools/organiza-tions. We pride ourselves on providing a fast and friendly service with highly competitive prices!

The benefits of using us are….

1) Promotes high self esteem, as the child’s artwork is showcased on the products, the look of joy on the child’s face when they see the finished product is priceless.

2) Supports the child’s unique artistic ability and creativity.

3) Enables your school to raise money for your important needs – for every product sold, $3.06 goes to the school.

e.g. 400 purchases equates to $1,224!

4) No door-to-door selling is required

5) Our products create lasting memories and keepsakes of the child’s masterpiece for family and friends.

6) We offer a friendly and efficient service with cost effective prices.

7) The project is easy to administer, and can be done as part of the cur-riculum in the child’s art class.

We can also take individual orders if your school is not using us.

We truly love doing what we do. If you feel any school/organization in your community would be interested in participating or if you would like to place an individual order please contact us, we are more than happy to answer any questions. Angela Robertson 905-616-0487 or Ta-batha Donoghue 416-617-3486

You can also email us at [email protected] or visit our website www.cookiecut-tercards.net to see examples. Please also feel free to join us on Facebook – Cookie Cutter Cards & twitter - cccards.Keep creating beautiful artwork to cherish!Angela and Tabatha

Considered one of the “best kept secrets” in any community, Toastmasters is a non-profit international organization of over 260,000 members. Using time-tested methods, Toastmasters teaches the speaking, listening, presentation and leadership skills needed for personal and business success. This is accomplished via a training program that is inexpensive.

Since 1924, Toastmasters International has helped millions of men and women become more confident in front of an audience.

Milton Toastmasters meets Tuesdays from 7:15 to 9:30 p.m. at the Royal Canadian Legion, 21 Charles St. At each meeting, some members give speeches while others practise their impromptu speech skills or simply learn by watching. There’s also a variety of leadership tasks, including evaluating speakers.

Visitors are welcome at all meetings.

The cost to join the non-profit group is $160 per year. It includes workbooks that guide members through a series of 10 speeches, which they work through at their own pace before moving on. Those who give 45 speeches receive the Distinguished Toastmaster designation.

Members are paired up with more experienced people who act as mentors.

You won’t regret it. Our club is one of the more than 12,500 clubs located around the World.

For more information, visit www.miltontoastmasters.org.

TOASTMASTERS

Vishal Badianisales Representative

Royal lePage Meadowtowne Brokerage “independently owned and operated”

Email: [email protected] Website: http://vishalbadiani.com/ Phone: 1-800-514-3316

by Vishal Badiani


uNet Group to foster inter-business relationships and bring diversified businesses at one platform.

Introduction to uNet Group Inc.

uNet Group has been created by a group of individuals who have more than 100years of combined experience with different sectors of industry in North America and on a global basis. Our philosophy is to cater maximum needs of the client from one platform. This is possible through the development of linkages and working closely with specialists in different areas. uNet Group will provide the platform for its channel partners to offer services to the clients in almost all areas of their business requirement.

uNet Group was launched to fulfill the lacunae in the market for clients who would like a one window operation. This will save them from hassle for searching the market for the right people. uNet Group has a team of highly qualified professionals who are expert in their area of expertise.

uNet Group will not only offer one stop shop quality services for the clients, but also to generate new leads for its channel partners. It is a unique opportunity that will not only provide one window operation for the clients, but also access for its channel partners to receive referrals

and thus expand their business under one roof.

UNET Group Inc. is created to offer not only quality services to the clients, but also to generate new leads for its channel partners. It is a challenge to start any new business in the current market. However, I am confident that this new venture will not only provide one window operation for the clients, but also provide an opportunity for its channel partners to receive referrals and thus expand their business under one roof.

Dr. Minhaj A. Qidwai M.B.,B.S., M.P.H., M.B.A., CMC

Services:

Accounting EducationEngineering Financial ServicesHealthcare General RequestedImmigration Services Information TechnologyJob Placements Legal ServicesMarketing ManagementOutsourcing Real Estate and MortgagesTrading Traveling

BuSInESS COnSulTAnTS


Dr. Wangari Muta Maathai was born in 1940 in Nyeri, Kenya, Africa. She is the first woman in eastern Africa to hold a Ph.D., the first woman to head a university department in Kenya and the first African woman to win the Nobel Peace Prize for her tireless struggle for environmental conversation.

Her environmental roots were planted in 1977 when she founded the Green Belt Movement, a non-governmental organization whose mission is to plant trees across Kenya to prevent soil erosion. To date, the movement has planted more than 20 million trees in Kenya, which helps to curb water pollution, and provides firewood for cooking fires and for animal nutrition. Her effort has earned her the nickname of “The Tree Mother of Africa.” This experience sparked her keen interest in protecting the environment and saving the planet. The program has been carried out primarily by women in the villages of Kenya, who through protecting their environment and through the paid employment for planting the trees are able to better care for their children and their children’s future.

In 2004, she became the first African woman to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. The judges valued “her contribution to sustainable development, democracy and peace”.

Maathai left Kenya after high school to study biology in the USA. She received both her Bachelors and Masters degrees and returned to Kenya. She became the first Kenyan woman to earn a Ph.D.

Wangari Muta Maathai has addressed the UN on several occasions, perhaps most notably on behalf of women at special sessions of the General Assembly for the five-year review of the earth summit. She also has served on the UN commission for Global Governance and Commission on the Future.

In addition to her continuing service in Kenya’s Parliament, Professor Maathai serves on the boards of several organizations including the UN Secretary General’s Advisory Board on Disarmament, The Jane Goodall Institute, Women and Environment Development Organization

(WEDO), World Learning for International Development, Green Cross International, Environment Liaison Center International, and the WorldWIDE Network of Women in Environmental Work.

During the 21st century she has been honored on countless occasions. I mentioned above that she was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. Additionally, amongst her many awards, she has received the Juliet Hollister Award (2001); Outstanding Vision and Commitment Award (2002); The WANGO Environment Award (2003); The Sophie Prize (2004); The Petra Kelly Prize for Environment (2004); The Conservation Scientist Award (2004); and the J. Sterling Morton Award (2004).

This exceptional and inspirational world citizen is as active today as she was in the 20th century.

PeopleInspiring

by Curtis Sindrey

Bringing Families and Business Together

Are yOu InTeresTed In AdverTIsIng wITh InspIrIng news....?

For more info contact us at 905.872.4772 [email protected]

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