Catherine the Great event

Posted on March 11, 2012 by Glenda MacDonald, Editor

 Today at the Revue Cinema on Roncesvalles at 4:00 pm will be a screening of Josef von Sternberg’s 1934 movie The Scarlet Empress  starring Marlene Dietrich, about Catherine the Great.  The film is not historically accurate. Introducing the film and available for questions and discussion afterwards is Eva Stachniak, author of The Winter Palace, an historical novel about the early days of Catherine after she arrived in the Russian court. The book has been a success — topping the Globe & Mail’s best-seller list and being chosen for the book section on Oprah’s website.

I will be attending and do a quick review of the event later.

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Start where you are and you will see progress

Posted on September 5, 2011 by Glenda MacDonald, Editor

One receipt at a time

Have you ever been faced with an overwhelming task? We all have. For me it is the pile of receipts and miscellaneous papers on top of my printer, waiting to be dealt with. (And that is just the beginning of my office tidying project.)

Like the journey of a thousand miles that begins with the first step, you have to just start with one piece of paper and deal with it. 

I like to think of it as a treasure hunt, or a game of “Go Fish”! Maybe in this pile I will find that lost business card of the person I wanted to reach, or the receipt I needed to submit for a health care benefit. Maybe it will be a love note that I tucked away, or  a schedule for an event I wanted to attend.

I recently bought an iPad2 with unexpected money from a tax return (which I completed after finding last year’s receipts!). I have purchased a couple of apps that make my life easier. One is iExpenseIt. As I go through my pile of papers I enter my receipts and then happily throw them away if I don’t need to keep them. I can even take a picture of a receipt or item purchased and insert it into the record, before I put the receipt in the “to be filed” pile. Some receipts I need to also track separately in a shared document with my husband or due to my business ventures. For these I also use GoogleDocs whether I am at my PC at home, at work, or now conveniently, using the GoDocs app, on my iPad2. Some of the other iPod/iPad apps I use while organizing my papers are Contacts (free), Grocery Gadget pro , Dropbox (free – and has a desktop version to synchronize files), and Things, the fabulous project management app I just bought.

I am fortunate to have been able to make the investment in my “tech toys” (some as a business expense) which increase the sense of play when I enter receipts, deal with sticky notes full of mileage records and odd jottings,  and update my contacts and other project files, slowly filling my ‘blue box’ for recycling and my “to be shredded” pile. But even if I had no computers or smart phones or tablets I think I would enjoy this game. Even with a pencil and eraser and an old-timey ledger book I would feel this sense of adventure and accomplishment as I tackle that pile.

g.

Posted in Acer laptop, Belkin tablet stand, Contacts, Dropbox, GoDocs, Grocery Gadget Pro, iExpenseIT, iPad2, iPad2/iPod apps, Organizing Tips, Overcoming fears, Tech Toys, Things | Tagged | 1 Comment

Growth is possible even in the harshest conditions

Posted on August 28, 2011 by Glenda MacDonald, Editor
Flower growing out of concrete curb

Fitting in time for running has been a challenge, with my focus on more desk-bound duties. Today for the first time since Christmas I was compelled to run a 5k.  I headed out for a leisurely run, taking along my camera so I could  pause and snap if something caught my eye. Just as I was getting tired, wondering if I would stick it out to meet my distance goal I spied this little red flower growing bravely out of a tiny hole in a concrete curb between two houses. There were also some small patches of green grass growing in the cracks in the driveway below, rising up to greet it. Even in the harshest conditions growth can occur, resulting in strength and beauty.  I finished my 5k, taking encouragement from this tenacious little flower.

G. MacDonald, Editor
Photo taken with Samsung Galaxy Vibe smart phone.

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Judy Bradt Honoured as SBA 2011 Women in Business Champion

Posted on May 12, 2011 by Glenda MacDonald, Editor

Last updated: May 11 2011

Congratulations to my friend and former MBA classmate, Judy Bradt, on being honoured on May 11 by the United States Small Business Administration  as Women in Business Champion, Washington Metropolitan Area for 2011. The award recognizes an individual who has fulfilled a commitment to the advancement of women’s business ownership. Judy’s service and commitment to businesswomen, at the regional, national, and international levels, stood out.  Top business leaders praised the value of her contributions including as partner and educator with Women Impacting Public Policy, volunteer and speaker for the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council and WEConnect Canada, and leader of special programs on government contracts for the National Association of Women Business Owners.

I recently reconnected with Judy in Toronto and had the pleasure of hearing her brilliant presentation about the consulting services she offers through Summit Insight to Canadian companies wanting to do business with the U.S. Government  and her new book Government Contracts Made Easier. She is truly an inspiration and an expert in her field.

For more info on the Award and Judy’s services read her blog at  Government Contracts Made Easier . Way to go Judy!

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Experience a World Premiere – Patches of Blue – The Musical

Posted on April 26, 2011 by Glenda MacDonald, Editor

Last updated: April 25 2011 11:45 p.m.

I recently had the tremendous privilege of attending the first full rehearsal for a new Canadian musical for which the World Premiere is set for the last weekend in May. Patches of Blue – The Musical, is a light-hearted musical comedy with jazz and pop elements, written, produced, and directed by Joan Hendershot and choreographed by Eric Oleskiw. Visit the Home Page for details, plus links to  Cast and Crew Profiles, to Order Tickets, and for Directions to the venues in Brantford.

This new musical is a true work of creative genius. The original songs will stay with you long after the performance. The characters are so richly-defined that they not only seem real but very likable.  The simple set allows the drama and comedy to shine through the skills of the players and through the imagination of the audience. This is a very smart work that will appeal to all ages from young adult to old, and both men and women. The dance numbers are delightful and an excellent complement to the score.

I believe that this is going to be an important work with a wonderful future. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the world premiere. Ticket prices are nominal ($10.00 each) making this affordable for everyone. Having seen the rehearsal, I can’t wait to see the premiere and experience it with audience.  Order your tickets now!

Glenda MacDonald

Posted in Authors Female, Bike racing, Canadian artists, Choreographers, Composers, Dance, Emerging talent, Gift ideas, Grief, Live, Music, Musical, Musicals, Overcoming fears, Relationships, Separation, Songwriters, Sports & Fitness, Theatre (Live), Widows/widowers, World Premiere, Writing | Leave a comment

Upcoming Events!

Posted on April 25, 2011 by Glenda MacDonald, Editor

 

Last updated: April 30 2011 6:30 pm

Mark your calendars for the upcoming events:
Sat. May 15 2011 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm, Bloor & Ossington area, Toronto: Silpada Designs Open House/Jewellery Party (G. MacDonald, Independent Rep.) – 15% of retail proceeds to Christchurch NZ Salvation Army – Email sailonsilvergirl@rogers.com for details. Note this replaces the May 7 and 8 events.
Friday, May 27, 2011, 7:00 p.m. - Patches of Blue – The Musical, World Premiere,  Branlyn Community Centre, Brantford
Sat. May 29, 2011, 1:00 p.m. - Patches of Blue – The Musical,  World Premiere, Branlyn Community Centre, Brantford
Sun. May. 30 2011, 1:3o p.m. - Patches of Blue – The Musical, World Premiere, Becket Senior Centre, Brantford

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A Night For New Zealand Benefit Concert raised over $3,000

Posted on April 16, 2011 by Glenda MacDonald, Editor

Last updated: April 25, 2011 11:00 p.m.

The April 16 benefit concert at St. Matthew’s United Church on St. Clair in Toronto was a great success with over $3,000 in cash raised to support the victims of the recent earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Happy at the end of the successful event

 Congratulations to Dr. Paul Jessen and Dr. Christina Lai on organizing this fundraiser.  Click here for the original article and the background to this story.

The official program from the event follows  Watch for updates as I add photos and videos and an overview of the entire event which I attended as a sponsor and blogger.

OFFICIAL PROGRAM:
Host: Amanda Soha
Buskers: Scott Cooper, Gaurav Dua, Ikho Shin
Speeches
Singing of the Canadian National Anthem
Singing of the New Zealand National Anthem
Christie Chorale & St. Matthew’s United Church Choir:
On a Clear Day – lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner, music by Burton Lane, arranged by Carl Strommen
Merry Widow Waltz - Franz Lehar, Lyrics by Christopher Hassall
Ave Maria – Giulio Caccini, arranged by Patrick M. Leibergen
This is My Island in the Sun - Irving Burgie
Simon Falk, ballroom dance
Kalya Ramu Jazz Group
Isabel Lee & Hera Chan, violin and piano duet
The Dream- composition by Isabel Lee
Lynda Maxwell & Don Macmillan
Amazing Grace – arranged by Althouse
Dianne Wells & Don Macmillan
Chariot’s Comin’ - arranged by Mark Hayes
INTERMISSION
St. Mattew’s United Choir
Blind Man-  spiritual, arranged by Diane Loomer
Every Time I Feel the Spirit- spiritual, arranged by Earlene Rentz
Danny Boy- traditional Irish, lyrics by Fred. E. Weatherley, arranged by Sumner Salter
Michael Vintilla, ballet dance
Albert Han, solo guitar
Alan Macdonald
I Know That My Redeemer Liveth (The Messiah) – Handel
Paul Tackaberry & Tom Poldrow
Peaked in ’79
Susan Hirst
You’ll Never Walk Alone (1945 musical Carousel) - Rodgers and Hammerstein
Ben D’Cunha, jazz music
Tyler Barr
Special Thanks to:  the Earl Haig students, Dr. Christina Lai, Dr. Paul Jessen, and Stephanie Marshall.
Thank you to the sponsors: World Class Bakers, A. F. Home Bakery, Starbucks, Tim Hortons, Baker Street Bakery, Loblaws, Globe and Mail, Wal-Mart, Catania Italian Cuisine, Portucale Restaurant, Eye For Detail: www.xiziluo.wordpress.com, The Elegant Garage Sale – Lynn Albert & Family, Leave Nothing But Footprints (LNBF), Canadian Art Foundation, John’s Hobbies, Master Sha, Glenda MacDonald, Roger and Joan Cunnington, Hemingway Restaurant, Acquolina Ristorante, Gerry’s Fast Foods, Absolute Endurance Training and Therapy, domenica&drea Salon and Spa, Vivance Dance Studio, Dave’s on St. Clair, Ann Millyard, Art Gallery of Ontario, 60 Minute Photo Lab.

Glenda

Posted in Art, Authors Female, Canadian artists, Christchurch, New Zealand, Dance, Emerging talent, Fundraisers, Good causes, Live, Music, Painting, Poetry, Sterling Silver Jewellery, Talent showcases, Traditional, Volunteers, Writing | Leave a comment

“A Night for New Zealand” – Support this April 15th Benefit Concert

Posted on April 7, 2011 by Glenda MacDonald, Editor

 Updated April 30, 2011 6:40  p.m.

On February 21, 2011 a powerful 6.3 earthquake rocked Christchurch, New Zealand resulting in many fatalities and tremendous infrastructure devastation. Click here for a photoblog at MSNBC.  The funds raised from this upcoming benefit concert will directly support the victims of this tragic event. Click the following links for a March 3 article at the New Zealand news site TVNZ “Red Cross Says Emergency Grants Could Take up $13 million”   and the related video  of Sir John Hansen, Chairman of the Red Cross Earthquake Appeal Commission discussing the ongoing needs and that 10,000 people may apply for grants.

Event date: Friday, April 15th, 2011. 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. (*Silent Auction: Doors open at 6:30 p.m. to view and bid on the items.)
Venue: St. Matthews United Church, 729 St. Clair Ave. West (at Rushton, just west of Christie), Toronto. Wheelchair accessible. 500 capacity. Download PDF of Google Map St. Matthews Church 729 St. Clair or get directions from your location using  Google Maps .
Parking:  there is limited parking behind the church. There are many public lots in the vacinity.
Admission (benefit concert): $15 regular, $10 students, $40 families
For more info: Dr. Paul Jessen, info@paulemlynjessen.ca or call 416-419-6904.

Click here for a PDF of the Programme .

I will be attending this fundraiser for Christchurch, New Zealand, organized by Dr. Paul Jessen and Dr. Cristina Lai (a part-Maori from Taiwan) which will have a focus on music and dance. The evening will cater to every taste, with rap, ballet, and ballroom dancing, popular songs, jazz standards, and classical music. A call for donations, a silent auction* and refreshments will add to the funds raised through admission.
**See below for list of performers, event sponsors,  and silent auction items donors.

The church holds up to 600 people. It would be great if they could have a full house. To reserve tickets and pay for them in cash at the door  email info@paulemlynjessen.ca .

* I am an Independent Representative of Silpada Sterling Silver Jewellery. I am donating a sterling silver “cha-cha” bracelet worth $202.00 (Cdn$) for the silent auction. Click the following link for a PDF of the catalogue page. It is Item C.   Sterling Silver Silpada Canada Cha-Cha Bracelet .  In addition I will donate 15% of my retail sales to anyone purchasing Silpada jewellery from me in Canada prior to May 15 who tells me they want to support this fundraiser.  Email me at sailonsilvergirl@rogers.com  for the link to my MySilpada webpage for online ordering,  to attend my next party, or for more info on Silpada. Or hold your own party and raise some more funds for this cause!

Hope to see you there. I will be the one wearing all the silver….

glenda

**PERFORMERS

  • Susan Hirst, a NZ soprano resident in Toronto
  • Dr. Paul Jessen, a NZ choir director, organist, and pianist resident in Toronto
  • Ben D’Cunha, voice and piano, jazz standards
  • Allan Macdonald (tenor)
  • Christie Chorale, director Dr. Paul Jessen
  • St. Matthew’s Church Choir, Dr. Paul Jessen
  • Students from the Claude Watson School of the Arts program based at Earl Haig Secondary School
  • Rock band
  • Ballroom dancing demo
  • Ballet dancing 
  • Rap dancing
  • A string quartet
  • A brass band
  • A mini fashion show

MUSIC

  • Pokarekare Ana (famous Maori song) arranged by Dr. Paul Jessen
  • Songs from Musicals (On a Clear Day, Merry Widow)
  • Jazz standards
  • Spirituals & other lighter music

EVENT SPONSORS

SILENT AUCTION DONATIONS

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. to view and bid on the items including:


Posted in Christchurch, New Zealand, Dance, Disaster relief, Fashion, Fundraisers, Good causes, Live, Music, Sterling Silver Jewellery, Traditional | 1 Comment

Autumn Art Sale – Fundraiser for McMichael Canadian Art Gallery Volunteer Committee

Posted on October 16, 2010 by Glenda MacDonald, Editor

Come on out to the McMichael Canadian Art Gallery Annual Sale next weekend.  Let me sell you a great piece of Canadian art (painting or sculpture). I am guest-volunteering at the event Sunday afternoon on October 24. All for a good cause. Check out the link for more details. Support the arts and this great group of dedicated volunteers!

mcmichaelvolunteers.com

Every October, the McMichael hosts the prestigious Autumn Art Sale, a major fundraiser for the McMichael Volunteer Committee, featuring original work from 50 of Canada’s most talented painters and sculptors. The work on display is selected from over 200 submissions and is offered for sale for three …
Posted in Art, Art Gallery fundraisers, Art sales, Canadian artists, Fundraisers, Good causes, Painting, Sculpture, Volunteers | 1 Comment

Happy 9/11 Birthday

Posted on September 12, 2010 by Glenda MacDonald, Editor

I wish everyone would stop fussing about my birthday you said the week before when I was busy planning my escape from my job so on that special day believe me I had more on my mind than your birthday as I held my carefully-composed resignation letter gleefully close waiting for the right moment to spring it on my boss when someone yelled that a plane had just flown into the World Trade Centre where’s that oh yeah New York that’s weird and I thought crap now I am going to have to wait until the fuss dies down so I can go in there and tell my boss I am leaving three days short of eight years of all the luck a frigging plane had to crash into some building in New York just as I was trying to resign so I sit impatiently waiting for my escape clause when the office radio blares the news that a second plane has crashed into the other tower and suddenly it is no longer a wayward pilot no tragic accident but something really big and our brains aren’t working because it doesn’t make sense the image on my laptop screen shows smoking towers and then a building collapses oh my god there are people in those buildings and reports that some are jumping I feel sick  the scenes of dust-covered terrified victims fleeing at street level and all of us miles away are also in shock and starting to think about who we might have known in those buildings and they are no longer an image on a screen but a tragedy of mythic proportions and how small am I to be pissed off about not being able to resign that day when people who maybe loved or hated their jobs and arrived a short time ago this morning as I did are now dead or dying so I tuck my letter into my briefcase for another day and pick up the phone to call you up north and ask are you happy now that no one is talking about your birthday

c. 2010 Glenda MacDonald (written in Canada on September 11, 2001)

Visit www.national911memorial.org

Posted in Grief, Poetry, Writing | Leave a comment