Publishing Tips

During the month of October, Newfoundcare will bring you the latest news on how to publish your material with affordable and quality actions to take. Whether you are a self publisher or have an agent, learning from experienced publishers and promoters, gives you knowledge and the tools you need to be a successful writer.

Tip#2 Public Speaking
If you have something to write about, you have something to talk about.  Regardless of your subject, you need to seek ways to communicate verbally among others what it is you are writing about and why folks need this information.  If you are writing a book, then of course, all the more reason to seek areas where you can speak in public.  There are several ways you can do this.  Find a writer's club, or ask the library for assistance as to where you might be able to engage with an audience of like-minded folks.  Another area to consider are clubs or organizations that pertain to your subject.  For instance, if you are writing about philosophy, there is a club for that as well, allowing you to narrow in on your audience. 

One thing that was suggested to me when I wrote my children's book, was to do the same, find ways to speak publicly.  I sought out areas of where I could speak in public and found a local Toastmaster's club.  There, you can attribute a lot of your knowledge sharing among others.  A great place to start if you're an amateur speaker.  You'll get hands-on mentorship, with like-minded individuals who will support you in your efforts. And if you are seasoned in speaking in public, you can attribute your knowledge to the club.

Another area for speaking in public about your writing is radio and or TV and now, social media.  Many community radio stations look for topics from writers to discuss their books.  Your community possibly features a local tv talk show and you can always record yourself and post it on your social media.  I strongly suggest though, you do this right after your book has gone to print and you have that tangible product in your hand to show and tell.

Next week's tip - Copyright and Distribution External link opens in new tab or windowinfo@newfoundcare.ca




Havin' a Time

Controlling Emissions?  Apparently, if you do NOT admit you have a disability these days, then you are at fault. "You should be like us and relying on the government to give you free money", is what one individual believes. He hasn't been sober in 40 years.

So there you go, I have a disability, I can't drink too much.  No remedy for that?  Well, the remedy is to OMIT.  I do not have to control what I omit from my daily diet. Alcohol does not control me. I control the alcohol and most of the time its omitted from my daily routine. Drink responsibly.  The light weights are not in the boxing ring. They're the ones who refuse to entertain a longer-than-necessary escapade of drinking upon one sitting.  The light weights in this instance are titled 'weak' to the heavy drinker.  That's the doom game for the alcoholic.  If you can't drink like them, then you are the problem.

What they don't teach you in school:  I read a book once, titled The Human Animal, Phil Donahue.  While attending school in Barbados, WI, back in the 1980's, I read the book and was enlightened to understand a lot more about the human brain and all of its magnificent gifts it can bring a person if they mind their health.  One example he gives is the process of what happens to the brain when it has consumed too much alcohol.  Quite entertaining and matter of fact.

You'll observe those who have had a 'few too many'.  Their speech begins to slur.  Like unwinding a ball of yarn you have just tidied away for the day, you begin with a drink and undo the process of all that tidying you accomplished with a 'few too many'.  The conversation becomes a rambling of words. The stubbornness sets in and then, after having a 'few' more, you are diminished into the horse stage of the brain, the limbic system, where you begin to stumble. The individual becomes stubborn and flippant, lacking focus. The intoxicated individual needs blinders from all the distractions around them to stay focused.  And then, on it goes, the 'few too many' and the brain reverts back to the reptilian stage.  The individual is now down on the floor, slithering like a reptile, with its lack of ability to get back up. 

When I first read that book in my teenage years the same applies today.  If that's what being drunk is, then count me out! Having a time with friends when you're young and drinking, and the majority have been there, with the next day hangover as the first alarm, and you say, 'I'm not doing that again". I love to dance and I don't need a drink to do it. "You'll hear some folks say, well, I need a few to get up the nerve before I can do that". You end up with one dance just before you're ready to leave the premise, even though you really wanted to all night, but just never got the nerve.  First of all, you lost your nerve as soon as you had that first drink in your hand to sip on instead of getting out on the dance floor, exercising and having fun with everyone else. Now, you're loaded drunk because you don't have the nerve.  The drink took away your nerve to actually dance and have fun like no one is watching.  And who cares if they are? They might learn something when they sober up.

Once again, everything in moderation.  If you are drinking yourself to oblivion everyday, you have a problem.  Drink responsibly or not at all is my motto. You are the one in control of the alcohol, not the alcohol in control of you. And never mind the rest.  They're still stuck in the horse stage of the brain, limbic and stubborn.  With any addiction that impedes a sensible daily lifestyle, you have to change your mind.

I question why the government never put any taxes on our alcohol.  While working at a convenience store a few years ago, a MUN student came in and said he was conducting research on the sugar tax and would like to have a look at some of the beverages we sold.  They have been frequenting stores around town.  Off he went to the drink coolers, to gather the prices, I figured. What else could give him data?  As I carried on working, I asked him if he knew why there is no tax on the alcoholic drinks. He said, "Because they contain no sugar."  I objected.  "Yes there is sugar in alcoholic drinks."  "No", he replied, "There isn't".  "Ok," I said, knowing this conversation was futile, I just politely stated, "I will have to check that out.  What about rum?" I asked.  "No, no sugar in that either," was the reply.

The Sugar Tax is not much different than an old fashion Single Tax Party from Denmark.  Absolutely ridiculous.  This tax fraud has only benefitted those who believe the drink will save their life and is using young healthy people to carry it out and call it law.  Absolute BS!  The life they use to have their sugary drinks is no different than my brother's, or my other brothers'. From a family of 12, 8 boys and 4 girls, we have invested in living a great life here in NL, and for what?  To see it washed down and out? Eat well, live long and the prosperity statement has become eat well, live long in poverty. Our childhood family motto has changed as we navigate these challenging times with unity and perseverance. The family motto now, 'one day at a dime", I mean, a time.

You can't buy time, as much as some would like to keep stealing another's. Buying someone else's time is ruthless and unfair.  Cutting assets from everything here in NL, Canada is not going to buy more time.  It shows a grave dirty thief justifying the drunken stupor. "It's an accident!"  You'll keep hearing.  Caught, the con, the fraud, and the pleasant thief have become accustomed to living here in NL and take it for granted everyday. Barely going anywhere outside of the house, and carrying out drinking all day long wasting away for none other than crooked friends and that nerve you don't have when it comes time to dance. Well, that nerve calls this business. Accustomed to being used, the sober one feels at fault.  For an alcoholic to use a sober headed individual to keep them going everyday, the alcoholic is now like a child looking for someone else to fix the problem.  Too drunk to understand reality, or anything well said, they're best omitted from the essence of the information to eat well, live long and prosper, knowing they are here to destroy it, one drink at a time, everyday, all day long.  Your sober heart knows its best to ignore them and what they say is wrong.  The present, carbon tax is really just a lot of hot air from those caught in their own web against tax-makers against the truth and reality. Making up more garbage day after day is not going to save them or anyone else. 

I have omitted myself from these drunken conversations. A bit by choice, because you can't reason with ridiculous and taxes are steadily increasing.  Like watching sheep jumping off a cliff, the simple solution is right at your finger tips while the cost of living is sky-rocketing giving no one any resolve.  Free money? No such thing. And it's a threat to taxpayers for the government to continue 'give aways'. 

Your physical composition.  The weight of our country is more like watching a crazy Hansel and Gretel story of keeping us all in a hamster cage, without real education, but to be fed and fattened up each day with our own resources, and turn around and call it research, by none other than a thief.  A poverty education plan, not a poverty reduction plan or an omission plan, great.  Being taught how to live broke, drunk and poor everyday. 

Google "does rum have sugar?" The content in the first statement;  O grams of sugar for RUM.  Your Google search engine was intended to give up to date immediate information of facts in an objective manner and that has now been tampered with and highlights nothing but an opinionated drunk to suit an extremely ill intention.  The Google search engine here in NL is running off fumes.

I have talked with a few over the years on social media and the ridiculous at-fault hackers see no need to accept defeat.  "It's an accident!" is all you'll hear them say.  All those alcoholic drinks contain some sugar and yet they keep hiding real knowledge and information from you and everyone else.  Alcohol drinks are created by the fermentation process that brings out the natural flavours in the brewing process.  So the content of wheat, barely and sugar is extremely high.  Debate it all you want.  After googling the rum question on Google, I went back to solidify my made-up mind on the issue: Look up the 1979 Encyclopedia Britannica.  Under the first letter, A for Alcohol Beverage.  Then, look up 1979 Encyclopedia Britannica, the letter S for Sugar.  You'll skim by Slavery and a list of topics of information in alphabetical order there as well, like the Single Tax Party, the Georgist Party in Danish RETS'FORBUND, political party of Denmark following World War II - Social Democratic coalition government.

Google it and you get the gobbligook or as the web shows, "gobledigook". The writer controls and emits impairment for leaving out an objective factual statement about rum. "How do you know its a drunk? you ask. Due to the ridiculous pattern of behaviour since 2011 and the lack of consistency and objectivity that this individual is out for, and that is ruin and despair.  They're doomed.  Doomed from all the various threats since the inception of Social Media; the end of world in 2012 with the Mayan calendar, we were all doomed then too.  Doomed with the pandemic, we were all doomed then too.  And now with the latest fight on the rise to omit the truth and real knowledge, the drunk is still doomed and his carbon emissions control upon everyone else is that WE are all doomed and they aren't.
 
"Allegedly," is how one statement on Google begins as the answer to, "does rum have sugar?" A prop there for a lawyer . "Allegedly", in the statement to state alcohol drinks may contain sugar.  May?  They do! Most of the other statements when googling "does rum have sugar" shows a bold statement right off the search, 0 grams.   Those who seek instant gratification breathe a sigh of relief and say, "See? There".
 
The reader has been lead to believe that sugar is added to some alcoholic drinks and is measured in grams. The IQ of a 10 year old has got to be  running the province's Google and it's atrocious! Dismiss the facts, (in google statements) of the alcohol fermentation process to make drinks, and  MUN students are buying into the artificial and calling it intelligence, telling the gents to do as you say! Drink!  What a load of garbage.  Google has become like social media, garbage.  Best for you pick up the newspaper and read that instead. Oh wait!  We don't have one anymore.  Oh well, there's always those community newspapers, if you don't mind reading about someone's opinion on Confederation to Join Canada as the 'bad" choice. That particular nuisance has undone a lot of good knowledge here with that and is attracting poverty.  Stay away from thinking you will become intelligent from the web. Go read a book!

It is why I went back to the book shelf and grabbed the hardcover encyclopedia to get something better than what is searched out on Google about sugar and alcohol questions of rum.  And then, there is actually a statement asking if rum is ok for diabetics?  Why is this the choice of the subliminal messaging? I kid you not.  I mean, who in the Newf's land do they think they're fooling here?

The best thing the government can do with the sugar tax is delete it. It's buying a pain for none other than to prop up someone's ideas for the ridiculous.

Encyclopedia Britannica - Micropaedia Ready Index 1  A- Bib.    Alcohol beverages any various potables, including beer, distilled liquor, and wine, consisting of a solution, also called grain or wine alcohol (usually ethyl alcohol, also called grain or resulting from yeast fermentation of sugar or starchy materials.)  Page 210. Britannica Encyclopedia

Someone will say "The future seems uncertain with these ongoing challenges."  For those who lack honesty, patience, faith and hope for themselves, yes sir, it's uncertain for them, that's for darn well sure! In daily despair for the drink everyday.  They don't laugh or lighten up until they're drunk. They have become so accustomed to the lack of sobriety, the impairment is the dispairment and we are all caught in the hamster cage going around in circles in the wheel of life, being fed garbage knowledge like lab rats.

The gift of patience is what most don't realize here about Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.  It's obvious those in control don't know their own stamina for facing the harsh elements here, how could they?  They're too busy at a bar or in front of the TV with the drink. The best way to live in NL is to be sober.  Don't be the newcomer to this neck of the woods and your "live long" and well, dwindle away in your glass.  Abuse it and Lose it!


Why is there such a lack of good nutrition?  Good knowledge.

A reflection on Thanksgiving 


Years ago, while listening to the radio, a discussion took place about Her Majesty's Penitentiary.  The conversation was dismal. There were facts provided to let listeners know just the horrible state of our prison here in St. John's, NL.  The lack of resources for one, and the lack of cleanliness plus a number of other factors. 


There's a way that good leaders succeed.  It's by drawing people in, not pushing their ideas on others.  Good leaders pull and never push.


There's a huge debate about how we treat those on the "inside".  You'll hear folks state, 'well, they put themselves there, let 'em rot" or "why should we, the tax payers, be making those in prison healthy, they wasted our time and now they should pay for it, in despair."  Even some of the prison guards who are there to serve and protect are not physically fit.


The rebuttal of this is that these 'insiders' leave the 'inside' having paid their sentence, and go back out to the world around them with the lack of knowledge on how to properly live again. Have they learned valuable lessons? Are they now ready for the 'real world' ? Work, pay bills, and live according to the law they were once against? 


During the radio conversation, I chimed in.  I provided one suggestion for the HMP and for listeners;  Agriculture.  The field at HMP is empty, some recreational activity takes place, I've been told, yet, I've never seen any outside. The land over there has enough to create a large space for outdoor gardening.  They could be growing food.  The community could buy it and that could help sustain their own environment, give them a healthy activity, and valuable knowledge.  That radio conversation took place in late 2007, early 2008.


Like Murphy's Law, if things could go wrong they probably will....too many have bought into the lack of good knowledge.  The barriers that were never there. The agreement for trade between Canada and NL had always been there.  And with the United States as well.  Our agreement to join Canada:  Nothing more than a fish-for-wheat trade.  Accepted and delivered. Better than joining slave trade deals. Those who are against confederation, the 10th province, the 5th largest island in the world, I find absurd and absolutely ridiculous. But there you have it.  The capital investment to undo this agreement has harboured people's knowledge of the immediate.  Now, with no local newspaper it is even more grim to learn about the facts of today in our local community.  "Some people will never learn" is the archaic statement that bolds truth. And it is very important to our current health issues.  Good knowledge brings good nutrition and that is the introduction to everyone's life.  Eat well, live long and prosper. A great poverty reduction plan to start with at home.


Another example of dismissing education for NL; a the closed door from the government on accepting a healthy eating program.  Three reasons for the  "not interested' stamp of disapproval is #1, I referred to foods that are not local.  #2 I mentioned ice cream # 3 I mentioned nuts.  So, there you go Newfoundland and Labrador.  The Kids Eat Smart foundation (government funded) encourages two of the main foods you eat each day, sugar and wheat, and both are not local foods.  It's the government's funding that's doing this.  Both of these foods are NOT local.  And what happened to the main ingredient of milk in ice cream to hamper people's knowledge on how to eat in a moderate way?  "Well, your book also talks about nuts and well, people are allergic to those things you know," was the statement given back to me.  "And as for those foods that are not local, what about growing them?" I asked. "Well we're working on that," was the answer 20 years ago.  Perhaps my next healthy eating program will talk only about fish, then everyone would be happy, right?


So, from HMP to the Fogo Island Inn, the food on your plate is NOT local.  We have been suppressed against 'reality' to improve our environment.  But, there was some good news a few years ago from the Minister of Agriculture at the time. NL Government doubled its growth in local agriculture! This was the success story we were to celebrate.  With access to information - that very news article was then updated by an objective point of view. The local agricultural industry here in NL supplies 10% of the food on your plate.  Now it's 20%, Wow!  Now, that's something to celebrate, is it? Or what about the fact that (stated by a radio host, right around the same time as that other radio conversation), that we only have a 3 day food supply here on the island of NL. If there was a power shut down, or a major storm we would be left to fend for ourselves. We would be relying on anything located here in the way of food and there's not much of that.  A bit of wild game, fish and berries, great.  It would mean no cereal bars for breakfast. Even our small community of livestock would have no fodder.


One day, earlier this year, while serving a customer at my place of work, it was a miserable day in late March.  "You know, we're some stupid." She said. "This place was a summer home for fisherman who came over here from Europe. They knew better than to live here," she said bitterly. We both laughed because its the truth! Living here takes guts.


Adapting to Newfoundland and Labrador, is not for everyone.  Fish is a given here for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.  However, the two main items promoted by the government (government funded organizations like Kids Eat Smart) in your daily diet, sugar and wheat. Salt was the big threat years ago. We learned from that, well, some still have a way to go, and yes, I am explaining how to undo the nonsense and introduce a healthy diet. A variety of colourful fresh foods will enrich your mind, body and spirit for life. It will help you to get you up off the couch, away from the TV, and video games and go for a walk in the woods or around a pond and be grateful for your health.  You can't buy health.  You have to earn it.


The hospitals don't want to see you coming to them when you're 250 pounds overweight for doing nothing to improve your life. But, they remain steadfast and continue to help you, with the best care in the country, according to recent information provided about those who trust their healthcare system in Canada.  I met a woman last year who had visited Canada and was shocked to see just how many people are obese.  The woman was from Europe who paid a visit here.  Most Europeans are shocked just at the size of too many people.  The pharmaceutical companies love it! And so do the lawyers that protect them. 


While visiting Barcelona, Spain last year, there's a FARMACIA on every street corner with bright green blinking lights to show off their RX signage and show you 'the way'.  And mentioned to me by another tourist, who was also visiting there at the same time, apparently those who also invest and celebrate their medication is the country of Portugal.  They love their meds! The trip for them is to access those artificial fixes.  Those problematic issues that require medication could probably be erased with just a healthier way of living or a healthier lawyer, instead of chewing up pills for breakfast that are made up of a compound of sugar and wheat to solidify the medicine. The real essence of any medicine comes from plants, a concentrated amount will provide the remedy.  Trusting your own physical body composition is important, and more people these days than ever before are relying on medication.  Why?  What happened to the traditional way of working here in NL?  People got up each day, worked hard physically, lived of off those wheat and sugary treats and prospered to a ripe old age.  What changed?  Well, our activities. The 888 - sleep, work and recreation combination.  Most work at a computer each day, for about an average of 8 hours, then, drive home, sitting for maybe another hour in the car, if you're from out of town, then after supper, too tired from not doing anything physical all day, the routine is to sit in front of a TV for another 4-6 hours before heading to bed.  And then, you reflect on the knowledge you consumed that day, the national news is terrifying, the state of despair everywhere, your social media friends are all confused, but there you are in your community and you probably don't even know your neighbour.








Thanksgiving approaches with warm weather records, community activities and a comet from the stone age!


This weekend, folks can participate in various activities to celebrate Thanksgiving.  The External link opens in new tab or windowRASC Royal Astronomical Society of Canada will be hosting a chance to observe the night sky tonight at the Johnson GEO Centre. The comet found in 2023 was last seen some 80,000 years ago.

Another event, External link opens in new tab or windowFree Compost, that can be collected from Robin Hood Bay this Saturday October 12, 2024. Those who like to plant their bulbs now will be happy to have this enriched soil.  Another great event, the External link opens in new tab or windowCarbonear Turkey Trot!  Folks can participate on the walk this Saturday to help support the local foodbank.  For more information email External link opens in new tab or windowssdpcarbonear@gmail.com

Marking the Thanksgiving holiday, the External link opens in new tab or windowCity of St. John's will be closed however the Visitor Information Centre will be opened for visitors expected to arrive off the External link opens in new tab or windowSpirit of Adventure cruise ship. 

As we gear up to celebrate this year's harvest season with our turkey dinners and a array of vegetables, don't forget to thank your local farmers.

Happy Thanksgiving!



Homemade Chai Tea and Eggless Banana Muffins

 Variety is the spice of life!


Have you ever had a craving for something home-baked and just piping hot out of the oven?  In our busy world, where time is precious and money is sparse, the ingredients in the cupboard can bring together some of the most wonderful delights in about a hour.  No eggs?  No problem.


Banana bread is one of my favourites any time of the year. Served with a sweet and spicy chai its a pleasant breakfast for those quick on-the-run, gotta-go days to the office or school.  Anytime of the day this vegan friendly recipe will delight your friends who pop over for late morning tea. They will be sure to enjoy this.


Here's how to make your own "vegan" treat of banana muffins!  One recipe I found calls for cinnamon powder, pinch of nutmeg and a dash of vanilla and the following ingredients


In one bowl,

2-3 mashed bananas

Oil 1/2 cup

Brown sugar 1/3 to 1/2 cup

Dash of salt

Dash of vanilla


In another bowl, (dry ingredients)

2 cups of flour

Dash of baking soda

Dash of baking powder - a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg


Whisk together the first bowl until smooth

Sift your dry ingredients and pour over your mashed banana mixture

Fold with a wide spatula gently until thoroughly mixed

Pour into greased muffin pan and bake at 350 degrees for 25-35 mins


Home made Chai Tea


I learned this recipe while working for an east Indian family restaurant years ago. The pungent aroma of the spices is warm and settling on the stomach


Add milk to a small sauce pan and bring to a medium heat

Add the following dash of each of these spices and let steam for a few minutes

Garam Masala

Nutmeg

Cloves

Cinnamon

All Spice


Your piping hot breakfast or afternoon snack is ready to serve!





October is Cyber Security Awareness Month in NL

What's your perception of people's awareness?

Slim chance for cyber attackers as each day continues since the beginning of the pandemic.  Canada is becoming fully aware of the threats that go against those who use online tools for activities and the list is long. 

Hampering access to information since the beginning of social media really began to grow in 2005.  Social Media has put a huge grasp on our security system analysis here in Canada and as the leaders to the rest of the world for safety and security, the level of awareness that Facebook, TikTok and other social media outlets are a reem of false activity is growing for those who seek a safer online presence. A lot more people are opting out of social media and sticking to their favourite websites for information.

Our knowledge base system is now in the midst of educating all ages on the importance of cyber security and its happening right through our social media. The huge presence it provides as an immediate place for information yet most of it is considered false, cheap and absurd to the public, here in Canada. From TV and Radio to Social Media news, real news, and objective journalism and knowledge can be deciphered by those in the field of media quicker than most, and responsible users of media are using this month to make others aware.  It is not now a thing of the past that it is unimportant, it matters each day that we respect the tools we are provided to communicate real knowledge and good information.  It has become extremely important for people to protect their privacy, their businesses, and their common everyday conversations online from those who have no use for ethics and professional use of these tools.

The RNC are not withstanding any of the false attitudes towards the laws and have in fact made them much stronger in combating cyber attacks, since the NL Eastern Health cyber attack in Newfoundland and Labrador back in October 2021 during the pandemic.

Here are some of the External link opens in new tab or windowtips to secure your online presence from those you sense are a threat to you and your personal online safety.

They are tools not toys - a great statement to make to younger online users.  Just like driving a car, stay away from those online who are impaired - this is one of the first tips to watch out for when involved with those who have an online presence.  Most impaired individuals are not able to make sense.  Drinking and drug use leads to impairment among many other complications and operating a machine like computers and cellphones is really no different than driving a car.  It's a tool not a toy.  Most see the need to educate children on this issue as tablets of cartoons have become the norm for several young children and yet are a direct target for cyber attacks.  In one instance, I have witnessed in the last few years was with an old friend who moved back from Toronto.  Fired from his job, he lead others to believe he was rich and unable to work due to his disability, type two diabetes.  His overuse of drugs and alcohol cost him his job in the media, his house, his relationships with his family. His illness got the better of him. His cognitive ability has been impeded and he continues to be a threat to any online presence.  His make-believe world with the law has gone so far as to attack other people's intellectual property. And so, this example is a common story among a number of people I have discussions with and causes many to become aware of the need to remove and limit use in areas where attacks can often occur and that is social media. 

Mail or No Mail
Electronic mail has become a safe haven for identity thieves.  They sometimes have not hacked an individual at all and have just intercepted their system to steal information for themselves.  This occurs without most ever knowing it is happening.  It takes a keen eye to unravel this type of interception.  Do not open mail that looks unfamiliar to you. 

Gender Theft
Another crime on the rise is Gender Theft.  Stealing from, let's say a person who is a woman, and then making claims they are "gay" or visa versa, the man is hacked and a woman around him is "gay" . A poor excuse for denying not only that cybercrime is a real issue but then to compound the issue with someone's gender is ruthless and shows just the level some hackers will go to make a statement. This has sparked a lot of conversations in the community with those who have suffered gender theft and the damage is real.  Having spoken to a few that feel that sense of violation that a hacker can do to a person there is support.  The first thing would be to remove yourself entirely from social media. Remove all contacts and refrain from anything other than traditional methods of communicating. Use the telephone instead of email for real voice verification, use snail mail. It may take a little longer, but its' worth it.  And reach out to one of the various community groups in recognizing you are not alone and it is not your fault.

Telephone and Electricity
Did you know that a person can tap into your world via your own telephone number and power to your house?  The highest security in the country is fully aware of the nonsense mischievous thieves have over land ownership as a prime example of this type of theft and its occurrence.  If you sense this is occurring to your household a good tip is to turn off all electricity periodically. Like restarting a computer it will help to clear out that nasty interception in your household especially within your WIFI.  One example is witnessing a glitch in your computers or tv and/or radio.  Turn off all the breakers and wait for a few minutes, it will also shut down your WIFI for a bit, prior to reboot. 

Online Banking
Once again, there lies a real threat to one's identity when it comes to online banking.  Usually, this goes unnoticed and if you are anything like me, not rich, that is, you are a perfect target for hackers to use and blame as the problem.  Online banking is a thing of the past for me as I became aware of my own bank account hacked. I went back to the traditional way of banking; in person.  What was caught however was that it was not actually my bank account that was hacked but the electronic banking system or E-Post.  It meant nothing to me for years as I faced repeated criticism and misunderstandings and blame as if I had done "something". It was discovered 14 years after I created the online bank account and it took quite awhile to have the online account deleted.  Finally deleted in 2022, I refrain from using online banking and have spoken to several others doing the same.

Travelling and purchasing airfare online
I strongly decline to recommend that this is a 'safer' way for travellers and airline employees agree.  Anyone can pick up your luggage, tag, use your name by a quick search, tap your bank card in your back pocket and steal your identity in minutes, travel across the world and never find a solution to the residual information that usually is felt after being hacked.  After travelling last year to Europe, with yet another stolen cellphone experience while overseas, blocking is usually the only way to save you and or your contacts identity, if you can find an outlet to check your emails and accounts.  Whether domestic or otherwise, theft is steadily increasing with the presence of online social media and the huge cost of living everyday.  Many are staying absent from social media and sticking with their favourite websites instead.
_________________________________________

With the recent loss of our local daily newspaper here, The Telegram, a shock to say the least, but it's clear the province has being runover by the lack of good representation of our people and community.  Within the last decade or so, it is unnerving to those who work in the area of Access to Information.  In order to obtain a real story accessing real information is extremely valuable and yet time consuming.  There are years of backlogs of those requesting information and yet the independent council of Access to Information hears from journalists all over the country that regard Newfoundland and Labrador as probably the 'best' place for being able to access information.  Stated directly from the Globe and Mail this is imperative to the general public to receive objective first hard news from reliable sources especially if those are sensing a pinch of a cyberattack on real news. 

There were discussions with a few folks I know recently that it was becoming "news" that there were 'talks' about shutting down Facebook. The story dropped immediately after a month or so.  I regret to say that this information was coming from a battle of political wills.  From unions to real knowledge, the use of an online computer and or cellphone has become like a blank check for some who have little respect for the law and civility. So, keep changing your passwords regularly, make them tough enough that YOU can't even remember, use a two-step verification for your online presence and refrain from reading too much news, most of what you see online these days is fake. Trust your local news and your national news for real knowledge.  It may be the mainstream but the in-depth knowledge creeping out of the social media crypt is sometimes worse than a haunted hike on Halloween.

Here is the number to call if you sense cybercrime or suspicious online activity. It can be reported through the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (1-888-495-8501) or your local police detachment.












Great Weekend Breakfast!  Eggs Benedict Special


Called "special" because it's not your typical eggs benedict. The traditional eggs benedict is served on an English muffin with a slice of frying ham and hollandaise sauce.  This weekend special use a slice of honey ham and regular toast with your own homemade hollandaise sauce.


The sauce is easy to make and requires only a few ingredients that are usually found in your kitchen.  Clear oil, vegetable or canola, added to a few whipped egg whites and a dash of lemon juice spice, and you have your own homemade hollandaise sauce. 


Don't throw out those left over baked potatoes.  They're perfect the following day for homemade hashbrowns. Garnished in the frying pan with a bit of butter and spice to flavour your plate, a energy boost for a great breakfast before a weekend walk or hike.  Here's how to make your own homemade eggs benedict special:


Poached Eggs

In a small pot add water and 1/3 vinegar, bring to a boil

Break open an egg into a measuring cup

Gently lay your cup into the boiling water, medium to high heat

Let the egg pour in slowly, (for that perfect shaped poached egg, you can purchase an egg poaching pan in your favourite department store)     

Allow your egg to boil to your preference. For soft (3-5 mins) medium (5-7 mins) hard (more than 7 minutes)


Homemade Hashbrowns

Take your left over baked potatoes and dice with skin on.

Heat frying pan with butter or oil

Cook over medium to high heat until golden brown

Add your slice of honey ham, cut in half, and cook to your preference of crisp


Homemade Hollandaise Sauce

Combine 3 egg whites in a bowl and pour in 1/3 oil

Whisk to thicken.  Add dry mustard and lemon juice for taste

Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper, paprika or chili powder for flavour

Melt butter in a small pot and pour in your mixture, stirring rapidly and until smooth, remove from heat.


Take a slice of bread and toast to golden brown

Pour a small amount of hollandaise sauce on your toast

Add slice of honey ham and your poached egg

Pour remaining hollandaise sauce over the egg, ham and toast. Your hearty breakfast will give you the fuel for that great weekend walk or hike you've planned!  Enjoy!

 




Publishing Tips

During the month of October, Newfoundcare will bring you the latest news on how to publish your material with affordable and quality actions to take. Whether you are a self publisher or have an agent, learning from experienced publishers and promoters, gives you knowledge and the tools you need to be a successful writer.


Prior to the Christmas season when most publishers like to launch their products, the work has to be assessed, edited, selected, and ready for sale. Most writers as you know, strive to receive income while they work, the work itself is a huge investment that either brings education, important knowledge or entertainment, depending upon your writing style. For instance, are you writing articles or books? Your writing will reflect the audience you are trying to obtain.


Each week during October valuable tips will be provided for successful publishing.


TIP #1 Networking


Networking requires skillful patience.  First, assess who you are going to network with and of course, this would reflect the audience your work has been created for.  Here’s an example of a networking response.  Keep in mind your time is valuable.  You will learn quickly if there is ‘real’ interest in your work when you contact individuals. 


Let’s suppose you have been exchanging times to meet with a potential audience interested in your work.  Let's suppose it has taken more than three times corresponding with an individual to schedule a meeting.  And there is still no resolve.  What do you do?  


Let it go, they are obviously not interested, and your work is too valuable to be wasting your precious time.  It's important to build up a strong network of audiences that will invest in you, your creative work with genuine support.  If it is not there, do not question as to why they don’t respond or delay a meeting. Its obvious they don’t’ care.  To build a healthy business your network will reflect those who mirror your values – not criticize them or waste your precious time.


Next weeks’ tip will be to show you how to build your audiences. External link opens in new tab or windowinfo@newfoundcare.ca

 


The magic of 3! Trail Mix, Cool Beans and Coconut Milk!   

The surprising taste I call, Breakfast Bean Delight!


One morning, I thought of combining these ingredients.  Using up what had been purchased during the month of September, instead of wastage, it has become my new favourite! 

Topped with cinnamon, this hot and cold breakfast will be added to my variety of morning food ideas. A combination of a hot and cold breakfast is substantial and can provide extra energy for those more active days you plan.  Be sure you have a hungry appetite before eating all of this!  The total cost of such a delight - less than $20. Here's how to prepare it for yourself:

Bag of frozen perogies, $4
Can of coconut milk $2.50
Can of maple syrup beans $2.00
Bacon $5.00
Trail Mix $2.50   

Boil perogies for a few minutes until soften enough to fry
While boiling prepare your bacon - cook slowly for nice flat pieces for dicing. 
Once bacon has cooled, drain fat and place aside. 
Add your par-boiled perogies to the frying pan of your bacon drippings.  Fry until golden brown on each side.
Bacon slices cooled are easy to dice into bits. Sprinkle over your cooked perogies.

Trail Mix Surprise
In a small bowl pour a little trail mix or granola
Smother the next layer with cool maple syrup beans
Add a dollop of coconut milk and sprinkle with a touch of cinnamon. 
Garnish with gooseberries for a more tarty taste. You'll be sure to enjoy your newfound breakfast bean delight!
 







Truth and Reconciliation Day September 30, 2024

A day of reflection on the heritage of the Indigenous peoples in Canada and a time to honor their stories and traditions.

My own story

My mother was always apprehensive to discuss our indigenous heritage.  Her mother died in the 1930's here in NL when she was 5.  Raised by her step mother - non indigenous and her father, a business man and a well respected individual in the community, she grew up aware of the fear upon those with indigenous roots.  The attacks upon us can be felt and as many with indigenous roots know, the level of racism still exist hence the awareness campaigns throughout the country today to educate others and bring peace, respect and equality.


Over the years I spent time alone exploring my own heart and embracing my intuition to be close to the earth and its gifts.  My father was a big help in this as I spent much time with him as a young girl when he was a fish monger visiting various towns, meeting his friends and learning more about my own culture here in NL. 


It wasn't until I was in my late twenties that my mother was once again approached with the subject.  "Tell me more about what you recall with your real mother", was the conversation that gave her much grief.  I empathized with her as she was scared to discuss her own heritage.  Growing up in the second world war certainly didn't add any restitude to the ordeal of knowing our culture was inflicted with prejudice.  It was a subject 'better left unsaid' due to the attacks upon what she witnessed from outside influences. 


The determination and spiritual strength to continue the conversation went a long way to where I continued to acknowledge what my mother was scared to disclose.  Sharing my own knowledge, the enjoyment and respect of the land and sea of my home, Newfoundland and Labrador was the basics for my own celebratory acceptance of my culture.  Staying close to the earth and her wonderful gifts was my own spiritual conquest that I continue to disclose today.


Without status, sharing knowledge of embracing a healthy lifestyle, undoing the generalization that 'all' our people overuse alcohol or drugs is still paramount to me.  Stereotyping 'all' people with this decreases each year as we continue to undo the 'fake' news of our people, heritage and culture. Making my own observations of my own family, I have witnessed and observed our level of health to be more than the average individual.  With our pioneering spirit, and moderate lifestyle 90% of us have the inability to "consume too much of anything" .  Our continuous awareness and high level of intuition we all share helps to create a happy daily life. 


Today, a national holiday in Canada commemorates the indigenous culture of Canada.  In honor of our people, activities will be taking place. Over 400 events will be found today around the country to mark the presence of our people and the strength of our country's awareness of our long lasting culture to respect our land and our people.
 

External link opens in new tab or windowhttps://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/national-day-truth-reconciliation.html







Let's turn Victims into Victory!

A challenge to healthcare supporters to recognize Well Being Week 2024

Not everyone requires secondary and or critical healthcare.  Primary healthcare begins with how we converse with each other about our feelings. Everyone has a different perspective - its how we learn from one another. However, the language being used for the last 14 years here in NL, towards our community at large is exhausting.  The trend is negative and debilitating and we need to change the conversation.

"All in moderation" is the key to the overwhelming increase in people's opinions on the use of language used in our everyday lives. We need to change the conversation.  Most of what we hear is not arming people to build up on their strengths.  The exact opposite is occurring.  The term 'gaslighting' is frighteningly becoming acceptable and it's costing our healthcare system an overwhelming amount of funding on our human, financial and environmental resources. For instance the mobile crisis unit - why not term the support network the mobile support unit?  The very word crisis is being overused and is fearsome, exhausting folks who most of the times just require a calm comforting conversation with another individual that will accept their feelings as real, yet do not require secondary or critical healthcare. Not everyone requires a psychiatrist (medication) most of the time the individual needs a psychologist (exploring feelings - no medication needed).

In an ideal world, our healthcare dollars would provide a individual with a psychologist first and foremost - not a psychiatrist. Our brand new "mental" hospital would do themselves a favour in adopting this and perhaps naming our newest healthcare institution something other than "mental" . We are in fact most of the times speaking about people's feelings.  If we consider another term such as an "Intricate" hospital - would sit better with many who understand the Waterford is focusing on the brain - the most complex organ in the human body.

We all have strengths and weaknesses.  The challenge is to adopt positive language that will arm an individual to build upon their strengths and to consider their weaknesses, as much as they are apparent, they are also a mind-set.  Changing the conversation can change the mind-set of an individual.  The following are a few examples of language we could adopt as we move forward in a positive direction exploring healthy ways of life that will benefit all ages.

ILLNESS                                        HEALTH
MENTAL ILLNESS                        MINDFUL HEALTH
MENTAL                                        MINDFUL
MEDICAL CONDITION                MEDICAL SUPPORT
DISABILITY                                   IMPAIRMENT (usually a physical condition that requires support) hearing, seeing, walking etc.
ANXIETY                                       USELESS ANTICIPATION TO THE INDIVIDUAL (usually overthinking of the future instead of the present)
INJURY                                          TRAUMA - TRAUMA IS TEMPORARY AND WILL BE OVERCOME WITH SUPPORT
DEPRESSION                               EXPLORING NEGATIVE FEELINGS REQUIRES POSITIVE CONVERSATION
DISORDER                                   IMPAIRMENT (usually comes from the need for more knowledge not a substance such as medication)

These are a few examples where we see the use of language not only from victims, but its widespread use by advertisers, media, policy makers and its costs on our healthcare system is enormous.  Let's adopt a more positive approach towards our community.  Many will learn there is truly nothing wrong and the real need is to just change your mind.




What's your budget for the Affordable Breakfast Challenge?


Send in your favourite affordable breakfast to Newfoundcare to win a copy of The ABC's of the Real Treat!  info@newfoundcare.ca


The cost of living for many is criminal.  In order to sustain a balanced life, the NL Poverty Reduction Plan is direct support from the government.  However, we still have to work daily to perform these programs properly. Correct use of funding, the goal is to reduce poverty, build upon education and encourage folks to create a better lifestyle, at home, work and play.  Consider your priorities when you shop.


Use the 888 - 8 hours of sleep, 8 hours of work, 8 hours of recreation. All 3 combined provide a happy healthy lifestyle, diminishing the need for external dependance upon anything other than what gives you great energy in your daily life.  Eating a variety of foods, obtaining a good balance of work and exercise and free time.  We, as a human race are hardly "artificial" when it comes to our development of emotional intelligence and these are adopting this routine folks enjoy each and every day. Consider how you spend your time.


Who can afford to buy local?  This apparently is the great debate for the last couple of generations.  It would be ideal if we all had the space to grow our veggies, and can our meat, however we don't.  And until the earth tilts a little more towards the south, we are susceptible to a very short growing season.  And so, we have these wonderful food suppliers here in the province that offer an array of the fresh food we require each and every day. Consider what you purchase for your daily consumption.


Transportation, rent, electricity...food usually becomes the "last" item in everyone's affordable pocket these days.  And so, the shopping experience has changed for many.  "Bargain shoppers" are always excited to find the latest deal and several have and will bulk up on their favourite items to carry them through the 'tough times".  What food is priority on your list?


The shopping experience should allow one to come home from the shopping area happy and satisfied with the purchase without living in fear if you will have enough to live on tomorrow, so never fear, there is plenty of support and efforts being made throughout the province.  Food banks for one have seen the unforseen, yet they carry on, keeping the faith that your good will supports the community in a time of need, and that's usually right around now, when the weather cools and the heat bill goes up.


For the month of September, Newfoundcare kept track of the cost of the items consumed for breakfast.  Creating new recipes and reinventing old ones made for a healthy savings instead of grabbing that donut every morning with your black coffee.  The following represents September's breakfast budget:


Can of beans 2.50 Dollarama

Loaf of bread 2.50 x 2 = 5.00  Dollarama

Cinnamon 2.50  Dollarama

Honey 2.50  Dollarama

Coconut milk 2.50  Dollarama

Buckwheat 4.00 Bulk barn

Milk 6.00 Sobey’s

Granola 4.00 Dollarama

Can of Pineapple bits 3.00  Dollarama

Trail mix 2.50  Dollarama

Butter 4.00 Dominion

Perogies 4.00 Dominion

Block of Cheddar Cheese - 5.00 Sobey's

Carton of large eggs - 4.00 Shopper's Drug Mart

White Cheddar Rice Cakes 3.50 Dollarama

Cherry Tomatoes – from the garden

Gooseberries – from the garden

Strawberries – from the garden

Black currants – from the garden

Nasturtiums 2.00 Home Hardware

Soil 10.00 Canadian Tire


Total 55.00 - take away the soil and seeds


What's your affordable breakfast budget? 









Affordable Breakfast Challenge brings Trail Mix and Coconut Milk for a cool choice

A warm breakfast is ideal in the cool months, however if you ask kids - many of them prefer a cool refreshing breakfast, milk and cereal for instance is a favourite.  The affordability of milk however is costly as we have watched the steady increasing cost on our food supply. This trend has forced many families to rethink their breakfast options and priorities.

Coconut milk is an ideal substitute for your breakfast buddies to share.  Not only will you require 'less' in your bowl, you'll gain 'more' satisfaction on your stomach and full of energy for the morning at work, home or play.

Here's what you need to enjoy this tasty breakfast:

Trail mix
A dollop of coconut milk
Rice cake on the side and a glass of water with a few squirts of lemon juice




un deux trois quarte cinq six sept WHEAT!!!  Buck Wheat!

The beauty of buckwheat for breakfast

This ancient grain is delicious served as pancakes for a great morning breakfast.  Affordable to the wallet and stomach, buckwheat is almost grey in colour as the refined grain is dark in colour.  Most of us here in NL eat wheat on a regular basis.  This in fact, is NOT a local food to NL and is shipped in from mainland Canada.  Wheat is the #1 export of grain in Canada and serves the global population to keep our stomachs full.  Several countries are grateful for the wheat export from Canada and next to India and China's export of rice, wheat surpasses much of what we consume.  Noodle soup, pasta, kraft dinner, cookies, cakes, chocolate bars, even some potato chips now contain wheat and those little goldfish all ages enjoy (bite size cracker with cheese flavour). 

Over the centuries wheat has been the main staple in the diet of many in Newfoundland and Labrador. Our fish and brewis for instance, and if you have the opportunity to visit one of the outport fishing villages in NL, you'll be sure to find a plate stacked with slices of the yummy white stuff next to the butter dish in the center of the kitchen table along with a cup of tea.

WHEAT IS NOT FOR EVERYONE

You may recall the statement I mentioned when I first wrote The ABC's of the Real Treat!  - Everything in moderation.  The same applies to wheat.  Many have grown to witness allergies are on the rise and wheat is one of them.  Discovering this issue within my own family, wheat was eliminated from the diet - wait! don't panic!  - only for a  period of 14 days to alleviate the body's function to get rid of toxins built up from too much wheat.  If you experience allergies such as hay fever or eczema try eliminating wheat from your diet for a period of time - about 14 days.  You will find those symptoms disappear within a few days, however continue on eating a wheatless diet for the remainder of the 14 period.  You will find you not only have less allergic symptoms but your energy will increase as well.






Well Being Week September 22- -28 Time for Health


Health is the real wealth however it's as if someone put a "Reich" loan on Newfoundland and Labrador long before Paul McCartney was invited to NL by one man and one woman to learn more about how the traditional ways of life in this province and our wealthy knowledge that sustains health. Their influence is still evident in the community today.

To begin this weeks' celebration the Health Care Foundation and NL Health Services teamed up with the Community Sector Council NL showcasing the multitude of support available for residents across the province at the St. John's Convention Centre on Sunday September 22, 2024.

Among the various booths the public were invited to a speaking event.  There, the discussion began with a celebration of our heritage, brought to us by the St. John's Mi'kmaw Women's Circle. Singing and story telling enlightened the audience as they described the story of the drum in song.  Delivering the drum sound symbolizes the heart beat from the animal it came from. The water song, and the travelling song, describing the heritage that the mother is the protector of water and to wish those on their journey with music to carry them forward. The earth bound nature resonated throughout the room.

Speakers from the Cardiovascular and Stroke Provincial Program brought stories of success and encouragement for those who attended.  Fergus and Fergus (Fergus O'Bryne and Son) also provided entertainment performing their great songs.  Other guest speakers were, Sharing the Harvest NL, Barry Fordham along with Josh Smee from Food First NL. Their discussion showed the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages to our province when it comes to the resources we have on hand here.  Dr. Conners along with Dr. Parfrey inspired the audience with their personal outlook on health and the need to make primary health care a priority.  Primary healthcare begins at home with sound education and a healthy daily routine, the 888:  8 hours of work, 8 hours of rest and 8 hours of recreation. This approach ensures a balanced lifestyle, promoting overall well-being and reducing stress.

Accompanied with Cassie Chisholm, from the Cardiovascular and Stroke Provincial Program, Dr. Parfrey and Ms. Chisholm talked about our "Super Power" and the message was clear, "we're here for you, but we would really prefer not to see you". "Our culture is our Super Power". The meaning is evident, primary health care starts at home, and yes, our caring givers in the health industry stand out from anyone else in the country when it comes to trust and loyalty in our healthcare system here in NL by providing exceptional and personalized care.

The overall display of support and knowledge combined with singing, dancing and good local food was encouraging for participants that these are healthy ways of life we celebrate health here in NL.  Also the encouragement of volunteering as Dr. Parfrey expressed is not only good for the community but brings about a sense of wellbeing and belonging, "as we have 210,455 volunteers in this province", he said, "the highest in the country". Furthermore, these efforts significantly contribute to the development of essential skills and community resilience.

Apart from the "positives" expressed about our people and province, alarming numbers of people with health issues still exists.  Education is key in arming people with sound knowledge and the statistics don't lie as this is the number 1 factor related to poverty.

The Poverty Reduction Plan was discussed and it is to combat these issues and the intentions this time are real.  Providing the province for a full school lunch program, along with disability savings plan and a focus on support for seniors who want to "age in place", with housing and education. There are still gaps and those between 60-64 who do not benefit are encouraged to focus on the importance of primary health care.   Additional resources and policy changes are needed to bridge these gaps effectively.

All of the those who participated in the event offer free advice and support to the community providing the latest in education and knowledge for people's well being. Hence the theme WELL BEING WEEK 2024.  The CSCNL will be taking this event around the province to raise awareness and advocate for enhanced healthcare services.





On the Rocks Fusion Resto Bar

A story of success for a new arrival to our great province, NL. 

Abhi Panwar moved to NL in 2020.  As several with any knowledge of Newfoundland and Labrador, our large island is isolated from the mainland. It made for a safe haven for those during the pandemic. Panwar found comfort in isolating here in Newfoundland and Labrador. The rugged landscapes and warm community provided a unique sense of peace and security.

Located next to the War Memorial Downtown St. John's, the hip, quaint resto-bar, On the Rocks Fusion Resto Bar became Panwar's new brainchild. A great choice for locals and visitors.  On the Rocks opened earlier this year and Panwar has received welcoming and repeated visits from customers. The service is great! Offering a full menu and bar service specializing in Indian cuisine, plus daily specials 25.00 or less, are served in this bright and vibrant spot nestled just up the stairs from Harbourside Park.  All of the the fantastic dishes accompany their wine list as well, as they "offer their resto bar customers the quality and quantity they deserve", said Panwar.

Seating for upwards of 40 people or more, On the Rocks can provide anything from an intimate dining experience to a full group of diners. Panwar worked in the restaurant industry in BC prior to moving to NL and becoming a subcontractor for a local taxi company during the pandemic.  "As a previous manager (of a restaurant) it was easy for me", said Panwar, "it just made sense to do so."

Hiring local staff, Panwar is always busy with his team as they create new ideas and menu items.  Offering daily specials like fish and chips or wings, gives customers at the On the Rocks a choice of local or international flavour.   The restaurant has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a unique dining experience.

On the Rocks is now taking bookings for the upcoming fall season for any of those special functions and/or Christmas Parties.  For reservations with One the Rocks contact 709-552-2255 or email  External link opens in new tab or windowontherocksstjohns@gmail.com




September 22, 10:13 am NDT

A little more depth into the dynamics of TIME

If you really want to learn about time visit the External link opens in new tab or windowJohnson GEOCentre at Signal Hill, St. John's NL.

Time. How do you measure time?  Time is of the essence.  Time is valuable.  It's so valuable, you can not buy it, it's priceless.  You can not buy time and then exchange it for something else if you are not satisfied.  Creativity happens each and every second of your daily productivity.  In other words, Time = Creativity.

This Autumn, what are your plans during the equality of our time zone?  The Equinox of Autumn (when there is an equal amount of 12 hours of sunlight and 12 hours of darkness), occurs in the northern hemisphere on this wonderful third rock from the sun, Planet Earth. 

Harvesters follow these precious cycles for centuries for agricultural purposes that are paramount for our food security.  You can not fake time.  Time is of its own entity.  It holds no favour over one or the other. To truly respect time people practice living their daily lives creating a productive one.  To view the "fruits of your labour", so to speak. 

Other age-old myths and/or statements of time of the Equinox include that the prevailing weather on this day will be the average weather for the season.  Something to observe.   



TBTN -Take Back the Night 2024

 End Sexual Violence and support survivors by participating in community events and educational programs.


With the average temperature around 20 degrees Celsius or higher this September, it was cooler and overcast yesterday during Take Back The Night march. Celebrated each year to increase awareness against sexual violence, boundaries are sought out for men and women of all ages. Zero contact (as many had to practice during the pandemic applies to raise awareness of one's personal right to exist without physical contact from another human being). Its impact on health and personal boundaries is profound and far-reaching. It encourages conversations about consent and respect in both personal and professional environments.


The key is communication.  The way we exchange verbal and non-verbal communication towards one another to work in a team environment, creating strong interpersonal relationships that foster trust and collaboration.


The march this year ended at Harbourside Park with fun for all ages to celebrate our happy city, St. John's NL.  Prior to the march, folks around the city could witness the External link opens in new tab or windowRed Arrow Royal Airforce as they made their last circle on tour of Canada.


External link opens in new tab or windowhttps://vocm.com/2024/09/20/take-back-the-night/





Can't get enough Nasturtiums!  A quick cool breakfast packed with Iron and Vitamin C


No time for cooking breakfast?  No problem!  Nothing nicer than fresh baked beans, however for those quick needed meals, a can of maple syrup beans is excellent for energy.  Very tasty with a mix of nasturtiums right from the garden.  An affordable juice with breakfast; Lemonade!  Just a few squirts in a glass of cool water, is not only refreshing but helps your digestive system as well.


For an extra tasty breakfast, try some homemade jam, for your toast, and if you prefer something a little less sweet, herb and garlic butter is easy to make.


Cut up a fresh clove of garlic in tiny diced size pieces

Add a tablespoon of butter

Fresh chives will add a nice crunch too!

Spread on your toast, broil in the oven for a few minutes and voila!


The luck of Friday the 13th!  Fresh fruit and flowers for breakfast!

Nothing nicer than fresh Newfoundland berries and nasturtiums for breakfast!  After a hard week of work and/or school, those antioxidants and vitamins in our food are the solution for sluggishness.  Mixed with a bit of granola and milk, plus shredded fresh coconut, this tasty flower with berries will keep you full. 

Growing nasturtiums is easy.  This annual flower can be found where seeds are sold.  Plant in periods during the summer months so that you always have a few to sprinkle on salad, or garnish your favourite bbq favourites.  Kids get a kick out of the fact that they can eat these pretty flowers!  It's fun and packed with vitamin C. 

Google nasturtiums and this is what you'll find:
Both the leaves and petals of the nasturtium plant are packed with nutrition, containing high levels of vitamin C. It has the ability to improve the immune system, tackling sore throats, coughs, and colds, as well as bacterial and fungal infections.



Newfoundcare Breakfast recipes - 30 day challenge!

What's your favourite affordable breakfast?

During September, Newfoundcare has created an Affordable Breakfast Challenge and wants to hear about your wackiest creations for breakfast.  Your favourite recipes for breakfast or your newest inventions are the challenge! At the end of the month, the winner will be chosen and receive a free copy of External link opens in new tab or windowThe ABC's of the Real Treat! with their recipe and photo placed here.

With school back everyone is getting into the swing of the daily routine.  Off to work and school each day, time management and affordable eating is a "must" . Gathering up the latest ideas from the kitchen can be made fun and easy. Think outside of the box (excuse the pun) to dream up your new ideas and affordable meals.  Combining the oddest thing can become the most delicious!  For the next month, Newfoundcare will showcase a variety of affordable recipes. At the end of the 30 days, Newfoundcare will be offering this fun and active food learning program at the Lantern, St. John's NL.  October 15, 2024 folks can participate in learning The ABC's of the Real Treat! program to use at home, at school, or your community kitchen.

Here's today's recipe for you to try.

2-3 tbs of canned pineapple bits
4-6 chopped cherry tomatoes
A sprinkle of your favourite trail mix

Cinnamon toast croutons
Toast plain bread as usual, let cool
Cut into cubes and place on a pan
Spray with a bit of grape seed oil and/or brush with butter
A dash of cinnamon over your croutons
Broil on low heat until desired crisp and voila!   Perfectly golden, homemade croutons ready to elevate your side dish for breakfast.

_______________________________________________

To get in touch with Newfoundcare email info@newfoundcare.ca



Today's Special, Blueberry Poutine!

Harry Clarke, manager of the External link opens in new tab or windowRose and Vine is pleased to present folks a full menu of delicious food at the Water Street central location.  "Not too many know we are now offering food," as he offered me their latest menu, and it's great! 

I asked if he could suggest anything in particular out of all of their choices, and he said they just arrived at a great combination that will surprise the pallet, Blueberry poutine! With a combination of cheese curds and local blueberries, topped off with gravy, this stick-to-your-ribs dish has become very popular, to those that "know". 

The Rose and Vine (previously known as the Rose and Thistle and the Grapevine), has always been the prefect place for live entertainment and now during the pedestrian mall season, to sit in the shade on hot summer day with a refreshing beverage, it's an optimum location during your visit downtown.

Harry also informed me that the establishment is looking forward to offering a daily special off their menu and as most restaurant owners and bar establishments downtown, they also plan to provide a day for downtown staff to enjoy a discount when they visit. "We are just now in the preliminary stages of gearing up for the fall and winter months," said Harry. 

The tourism peak season has been good for folks downtown this year, with so many events attracting visitors from away, many repeat visitors prefer the low season to just relax and enjoy the local culture and the people.  This year, looks even more promising from the word of many visitors to Newfoundland and Labrador.


Food, Flavour and Fun.  Look forward to Wooden Walls Blueberry Liqueur coming this fall. 

Where the land of Blueberries meets the sea, take a tour at the Wooden Walls.


Newfoundland and Labrador, the land of berries, Vinland to the Vikings who visited our island over a thousand years ago, would be proud of this little gem to water their pallet.  A family friendly environment, folks can appreciate fine liqueur made from local berries such as their latest upcoming distilled Blueberry Liqueur that will be available early September if the harvest is right.  "We're just waiting on the berries", said General Manager, Matthew Pribag. 


Upon visiting this quaint and comfortable venue, (inside and out), I happened to be present while folks were on a tour inside with Matthew. Groups can walk through the distillery and learn the process of the local flavours provided.  Those accustomed to St. John's would appreciate this great little get away and the experience is like none other when it comes to fine liqueurs and tapas.  Delicious food prepared by Beck Cook accompanies the flavours of their vodka and coffee liqueurs and spirits.  Evening Tide Vodka, Wooden Walls award winning varietal vodka of 2024, is one of the delicious blends that visitors can sample.  For $10 you can choose the spirits you would like to experience and the choices are vast! 


My first visit to the establishment, located in the parking lot of GAZE Seeds on Harbour Drive, I met bartender, Noah.  Noah is a wealth of information, not to mention great service! The sampling suggestions were perfect for my first visit.  Coffee Liqueur, Evening Tide Vodka, Blueberry Liqueur and the Wheat Vodka, accompanied with Scallop Ceviche.  There's nothing like Wooden Walls when it comes to featuring your next venue. In a heritage location, any type of event, you'll be sure to expect class at External link opens in new tab or windowWooden Walls.


Wooden Walls' neighbours appreciate their business too!  With folks visiting for boat tours, they can expect to receive a complimentary coupon to follow up with a tour of the Wooden Walls. Wooden Walls opened in December 2022, just after the Covid-19 restrictions lifted in Newfoundland and Labrador and has been growing in international style.  I look forward to my next visit.



 

 


Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival 2024! 

The weather couldn't have been more perfect for this year's folk festival which brought out the best crowd in several years!  The lineup might have had something to do with this as well plus the great volunteers that put off the venue each year. 


The festival organized this year allowed patrons to buy a beverage of beer and sit where they would like among the venue, (unlike years before when an alcholic beverage was only allowed in a fenced-off tent area).  Unlike the music lineup for the evening's show, the line up to buy a beverage could have been dismissed had the organizers considered a rep to go around selling the beverages instead of having to leave your favourite spot and interrupt viewing the show.  "It's the plan for next year," said one official, "certainly to avoid lineups."


Musical enthusiasts and folk song lovers enjoyed the Saturday evening show with its largest turn out to hear Steve Earle, Emmylou Harris and local talent Duane Andrews plus several other musicians. 


Each year the festival runs from Thursday to Sunday with daytime and evening events scheduled.  Many local pubs also support artists by featuring them during the festival.  This year, the feedback from many was highly favourable. One patron who has not missed a folk festival in 48 years, stated "this was the best one ever!" 


The atmosphere supported all ages where several families brought their lawn chairs and picnic baskets to enjoy the day's event.   Those that participated in coming to the show were also asked to bring along a food item to donate to the Community Food Sharing Association. 



 

Camping Enthusiasts!! Tour the island of Newfoundland for $165.00!

External link opens in new tab or windowDRL Bus Lines is touring in comfort. Boarding the bus either in St. John's or Port Aux Basque, the motor coach makes a number of stops along the way in some of the most picturesque locations on the island.  You can board the bus from the ferry in Cape Breton, or leave the airport in St. John's, Gander, or Deer Lake and hop on the bus for a ridiculousy inexpensive amount, much cheaper than various coach lines and tour buses. 


Servicing local communities, you'll stop in areas like Clarenville, Lewisporte, and beautiful Corner Brook.  DRL Coachlines is affordable and the safest way to travel throughout the island portion of Newfoundland and Labrador. With a steward on board, you'll pay in cash and your one-way fee does not require a reservation. 


Considering a camping excursion to Newfoundland?  The DRL Bus is your ticket to locating some of the best parks in the province.  One in particular, Terra Nova National Park.  With so many stops along the way you'll get a true sense of the island and your surroundings.  For more information contact External link opens in new tab or windowDRL today!


City Makeover


A common occurance in the City of St. John's, NL after the long winter is Spring cleaning.  Several communities like St. John's in Newfoundland and Labrador gear up to obtain bulk garbage, clean foilage from falling leafs etc.  However, St. John's especially, has been growing a reputation of dirt on our city streets.  Why?  Well, it's obvious that a clean city is not priority in the city budget.  Perhaps its burried deep within the budget of tourism, considering the influx of associations across the country that decide to have their conventions here. 


Among several other visitors to the city each year, we are now welcoming cruise ships earlier and this year, in Spring!  They come and visit and their unfortunate comments reflect how dirty the city is when they walk about downtown St. John's.  It might be best to put them on a tour bus right away and take them to CBS, Conception Bay South, and a ferry ride over the ocean on account of the lack of TLC St. John's has been given to its pedestrian areas. 


Downtown St. John's basically consists of three main thorough fairs.  Harbour Drive, Water Street and Duckworth Street.  Then you're heading in to up-town towards Long's Hill, King's Bridge Road, Hamilton Avenue or Rawlin's Cross. There are beautiful resting places throughout the city yet, the commonly used routes, bus routes especially, could use a city makeover using our City's Tourism budget dollars as one area of good investment. 


Instead of advertising on media, install park benches garbage cans, bill-board maps saying, "you are here", and sites to see in the area before hopping on the next bus to Bowring Park.


The recent investment in the few seating areas on Water Street has been dissapointing to Duckworth Street vendors since the inception of the pedestrian mall.  Season 4 is about to begin.


Vendors on Water Street will be closed to vehicle traffic during the summer months, yet Duckworth Street remains the same.  Visitors to the downtown region will most likely miss out on Duckworth Street vendors due to the 'action' being on the street below. The on-going debate continues yet, the surplus of litter and dog feces is not helping the matter and Spring clean up is done for the downtown region.  Therefore, our hard earned tax dollars going towards the tourism budget should include attiributes to making the city more clean and comfortable in the very least for those who like to be a tourist in their own town. 


St. John's is the captial of Newfoundland and Labrador and the largest city in the province. Statistics on the amount of visitors that come to our city are readily available and yet it would much more than ideal to say I would rather be writing about a satisfied welcome, however, St. John's lacks in comparison to larger cities that spray-wash their streets overnight for cafe and shops to open up to fresh pedestrain traffic the following morning. 


A survey link has been included if you wish to vote. External link opens in new tab or windowCity Makeover The response will be shared with the powers that be at the City of St. John's, NL.

 


Fred's Records hosts album launch, Garbage Street


It's Saturday afternoon, and the downtown region is beginning to bussel with Springtime community activity.  After a few enjoyable coffees, it was time to go shopping, for music. And why not? A chance to take in the album launch of Garbage Street by Mick Davis and Thin Love! At St. John's oldest record store, Fred's Records! The show was fantatastic!

A grand crowd enjoyed the all ages show at the Duckworth Street store with the latest groovy tunes by the band. One of St. John's finest talents, External link opens in new tab or windowMick Davis and Thin Love, filled the room with unlookers to catch a glimpse of the show and an autograph by the artists. "An album launch at Fred's Records is an ideal location for an all ages show to truly get a glimpse of the artists and their work", said Tony.

A quote from Mick himself will tell you how exciting it is!  "This album was created by six people: Allan, Craig, Jill, and myself, plus engineer and 5th Beatle, Krisjan Leslie, and Duncan Major, our jacket designer. (I will say how much I love this cover art: I love it!) I wrote the bulk of these songs as we were recording."

Host and long-time employee of Fred's Records, Tony Ploughman, couldn't hide his enjoyment as he kept the store in regular operation for the show.  Tony has a keen ear for good music and talent. His years spent with quality hand picked mentions includes Mick Davis.  As the band played unlookers were able to browse the store, see the band and meet up with others.  "Regular business operates as per usual during our shows", said Tony.

Tony's description sums up the atmosphere. "You get a performance that's up close and personal, intimate...unlike any other. You'll probably hear a story you won't hear anywhere else.  And everyone is there to celebrate the music.  The sound is beautiful.  Wooden ceilings and floors, and after the show the performers hang out, sign copies, and meet and greet while we crank the new album over the main. That's the vibe, the amazing energy at a Fred's Instore."

Live shows are not uncommon in St. John's and they offer an upclose exchange of the artists and their music through their audience. Several large acts have enjoyed playing here in Newfoundland and Labrador.  Many will comment on how welcomed they feel by fans as artists perform at our local venues to entertain.  The next venue for Mick Davis and Thin Love will be at Iceberg Alley Performance June 2024 where several acts will take place over the duration of a week.

If you would like to purchase Mick Davis and Thin Love, the latest album, Garbage Street, contact Fred's Records for an array of musical talent, albums, CD's and music memorabilia.


The Etsy Market


Meghan Fahey, Team Captain of Etsy Market, and I had a chance to meet up at the St. John’s Etsy Market on Saturday, May 11th.  The Atlantic Place was buzzing with activity of all sorts of creative talent, from handmade purses, and ornaments, to seal skin and jewellery. Meghan’s booth, External link opens in new tab or windowDriven to Ink, was kept busy as people caught a glimpse of unique cards, all handmade where many just couldn’t say no! All beautifully handcrafted, there was a greeting card there for all sorts of occasions.


As one of the captains of Etsy market, Meghan, along with Liza-Ann Tucker of External link opens in new tab or windowNan's Attic Round The Bay, and team photographer, Kara O’Keefe, have brought about a great opportunity for local market and vendors for NL.


Curious to know more, I asked Meghan a few questions as to how Etsy Markets work.  It’s quite an organized system of selecting vendors that will participate in their upcoming markets.  Jury markets, as they term it, select the vendors that will compliment their next venue.  Be that the time of year, what a vendor has to offer and of course, space!  Not everyone will get selected. 


The process involves applying for one of the 3 markets held each year.  The next one will be September 29th and November 17th at the Farmer’s Market.  The Spring Downtown Market held this past weekend at the Atlantic Place attracted approximately 2000 people of all ages.  There was something there for everyone.


The first Etsy Market in St. John’s was held at the Anna Templeton Centre in 2015 and continues to expand. Concentrating on hand made craft and vintage, The Etsy market team leaders along with Captain Meghan had 46 vendors at this year’s Spring Downtown Market. I asked Meghan how one can get involved. 


“The next application comes out the end of May 2024.”  Meghan explained, a 3-to-4-week application process then takes place and gives vendors ample time to prepare for the next Etsy Market.  The cost is $80.00 a booth.  The application will be posted on Facebook or Instagram.




Solar Storm 2024 Brings Aurora Borealis

The biggest solar storm in 20 years hit Earth in the early hours of May 10th, knocking out radio transmissions in Asia, eastern Europe and eastern Africa.  As beautiful as they are, the aurora borealis continues to remind us that our biggest star in the galaxy, the sun, is more powerful than anything else.  As we rely heavily on electricity for our well being, cellular technology, and radio frequencies to fly our airplanes, generate refridgeration, watch our computers, all of it can be taken away in a moment during a solar storm.  Electrical grids disrupted can sometimes take months to repair depending up on the damage caused. 


Most of us are aware of the need to conserve energy these days as our blue planet keeps reminding us of how vulnerable we are.  Turning off the lights, turning down the air conditioning or turning the down the heat, careful use of our electricity all helps in lessening the intensity that brings solar storm activity.  With over 8 billion people on earth, over 75% of us use electricity in our daily lives.  Together we can use it more wisely.  To help all ages understand a little bit more about the universe, here is a link to the External link opens in new tab or windowMighty Sky, music by Beth Nielsen Chapman.