CONTENTS
5
It’s All About Making Women Look and Feel Their Best Robin Courneya-Roblin
7
Crystal Project works year-round to help women’s shelters Debbie Brown
8
Finding the Balance Dr. Susan Joyce, N.D.
9
An easy take to work lunch
Moving Pictures™
12
For Burgandy’s Tina Parkes, life can get only better
Terri Catlin
Like Us On Facebook Discovering Women Magazine @discoveringW
www.Discovering-Women.com www.DiscoveryourCommunity.com Managing Editor/Copy Editor/Writer: Melodie McCullough Editorial: info@discovering-women.com Publisher: Miryam Buchahim Design / Photography: MB Graphics & Events Advertising Inquiries: miryam@discovering-women.com Office: 705-768-1035
Did you get that atTragically Hipp Evelyne derKinderen
14
Eat to work Erin Bell, RNCP,R.
16
Retired teacher finds healing through art Stephanie Guyatt
17
11
Tina Parkes
13
Under One Sun, changing lives in Haiti Gail Nicholson DW CHANNEL
www.discoveringwomenmagazine.com
Contributors: Robin Courneya-Roblin (on the cover) Debbie Brown Tina Parkes Paul Lavergne Evelyne derKinderen Dr. Susan Joyce N.D. Erin Bell RNCP,R Terri Catlin Stephanie Guyatt Gail Nicholson
Discovering Women Magazine and its logotype is a registered name. The publication is subject to copyright and may not be reproduced by any means without permission of the publisher. Discovering Women Magazine is produced and distributed four times a year. Subscriptions: Telephone 705-768-1035 Four issues for $24 plus taxes. Canada only. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or visual material. Story submissions, letters to the editor, press releases and promotional material in whole or in part or in any medium may be used, reproduced, published, stored or archived without compensation of any sort. This does not apply to materials, pitches, photography and illustrations submitted in accordance with known industry practices. Discovering Women Magazine will not be held liable for opinions expressed by authors. or damages or losses however sustained as a result of any information, opinions or products within its pages or its Website. Publication of ads does not indicate endorsement of advertisers’ products.
2014 | www.Discovering-Women.com | Issue#8
3
To Our Readers, from the Editorial Team Welcome to Discovering Women Magazine, Summer/Fall 2014. We have so much to tell you! First, we thank our many readers and advertisers who continue to support our team, making our job of “discovering women” in Peterborough and the Kawarthas such a pleasure. These women are making a difference through their everyday lives – and we love sharing their stories with you.
www.Discovering-Women.com
This issue we are focusing on successful business women, and we hope you will be inspired by their efforts and determination. They help make our community a good place to live! I would like to introduce myself as the new managing editor of Discovering Women Magazine. I have been writing for it for the past year and am replacing Linda Viscardis, the outgoing managing editor, who left to focus on her business. I grew up in Ottawa and graduated from Carleton University with a Journalism degree. I have worked as a staff and freelance reporter at Ontario weekly and daily newspapers and magazines for 35 years, including 30 in Peterborough. We truly thank Linda who for the past two years – since the beginning – has worked diligently with Miryam Buchahim to create a magazine for the women of our city and beyond. Her goal was to recognize the many gifts of “ordinary” women, and provide a forum that educates, inspires and empowers others to live their best lives. That vision continues to guide us.
Did you know that in addition to the magazine being found at many of your favorite gathering spots around town, we also have a significant online presence? We encourage you to visit, advertise and share ideas at our website: www.discoveryourcommunity.com. Another new venture is the one-on-one video interviews of some of our featured women, available for viewing at www.youtube.com’s Discovering Women Magazine.
The Crystal Project event, which raises money to fill shoe boxes for women in shelters at Christmas time, is happening Oct. 26 at ARIA. Two “Discovering Women Awards” will recognize community service and positive role modelling. If you would like to nominate a woman, contact us at: miryam@discovering-women.com. Forms are also on our website. On a sad note, the Discovering Women team extends its condolences to the Jameson family. In our last issue, we profiled the 58-year marriage of Bob and Jacquie Jameson. Bob passed away in June.
As always, we sincerely encourage you to tell us about women in our community who might have a story to share – women who have made an impact in the community, or have shown strength in the face of challenges or achieved what they or others never expected. Please reach me at: info@discovering-women.com.
Miryam Buchahim Publisher / Art Director 4
Issue #8 | www.Discovering-Women.com | 2014
Melodie McCullough Managing Editor / Writer
It’s All About Making Women Look and Feel Their Best By Melodie McCullough
From a young, single mom struggling to find her place in the world to a mature, confident and highly successful business woman, Robin Courneya-Roblin has journeyed far. “I felt disempowered in a lot of ways,” she said in cent interview, thinking back. “I wanted to feel I wanted to be valued and I didn’t even know if served to be valued. I think that’s how a lot of women
a regreat. I defeel.”
Nowadays, Robin spends her time “helping women look and feel their best, every day”, as an independent senior sales director and consultant with Mary Kay Cosmetics.
In Photo: Robin Courneya-Roblin Photo by: MB Graphics & Events
only
single
parent
in
the
1980s
in
“What I’m doing today is all about empowering. It’s not just about the outside because it’s never about that. It’s about bringing the inside out,” she said. Her story began in Halifax, as the seventh of nine children. She was married at 21, had a child at 23, and left the marriage soon after. As the a small Nova Scotia community she felt “judged”.
“I found that so difficult. There was a stigma. People looked at me and said ‘she’s not capable’, and that was probably how I thought about myself.” In 1998 she arrived in Peterborough. Her father had grown up in the city and she was familiar with the area. She remarried and had another child. She started her career with Mary Kay in 2002 and became a sales director in 2004. She is now one of the top salespeople in Canada, having earned, among other prizes, over $20,000 in diamonds and seven cars – including two pink Cadillacs and, most recently, a black BMW 320i. What’s her secret? It’s an incredibly upbeat view of life plus great empathy for the women she serves. “It’s never about the sale. I like a client to discover how beautiful they are. It’s about self-care, it’s about every day feeling and looking your Sunday-best. Why wear a piece of clothing that doesn’t feel right? Wear something great that speaks to you and speaks to others of who you are. That’s what I want women to understand. We deserve the best.” “I had lots of challenges in my life,” she continued. “If people knew how I lived in that first marriage and looked at me now, they’d never believe this could happen. Maybe I went through the school of hard knocks for a time, but it doesn’t matter because that was my journey. The whole point is I didn’t stay there. Had I had no challenges as a female all those years, I would never be able to understand any of the challenges women go through today.” Robin’s job also involves mentoring about 200 women who work in her unit, supporting them in their business endeavors and helping them discover what they want to achieve. Having had a mentor herself, she knows the importance of the role. She values the non-competitive sharing and the impact she can make.
One person can make a difference...19
2014 | www.Discovering-Women.com | Issue #8
5
9EDJ79J F>ED; B?IJ Name
Tel#
Emergency .................................................................................................................911 Police (non-emergency) ................................................................................................705-876-1122 Hospital ................................................................................................705-743-2121 Activity Haven Seniors’Centre ................................................................................................705-876-1670 Alcoholics Anonymous ................................................................................................705-745-6111 Bereaved Families of Ontario - Peterborough ................................................................................................705-743-7233 Big Brothers Big Sisters of Peterborough ................................................................................................705-743-6100 Canadian Mental Health Association ............................................................................................1-866-990-9956 Children’s Aid Society ................................................................................................705-743-9751 City of Peterborough Municiple Police Victim Services Unit ................................................................................................705-743-8922 Community Care ................................................................................................705-742-7067 Community Counselling Resource Centre ................................................................................................705-743-6976 Community Living Peterborough ................................................................................................705-743-2411 Community Race Relations Committee ................................................................................................705-742-9658 Elizabeth Frye Society of Peterborough ................................................................................................705-749-6809 Family Counselling Service and Volunteer Information ................................................................................................705-742-4258 Five Counties Children’s Centre ................................................................................................705-748-2221 Good Neighbours Care Centre ................................................................................................705-742-9800 Greater Peterborough Area Economic Development Corporation Business Advisory Centre....................................................................705-743-0777 Hospice Peterborough ............................................................................................... 705-742-4042 Kawartha Community Midwives ................................................................................................705-745-7640 Kawartha Food Share ................................................................................................705-745-5377 Kawartha Participation Projects ................................................................................................705-745-4122 Kinark Child and Family Services ................................................................................................705-742-3803 Labour Ready Inc ................................................................................................705-760-9111 Legal Aid Ontario ................................................................................................705-743-5430 Literacy Ontario Central South ................................................................................................705-749-0675 Mapleridge Seniors Recreation Centre ................................................................................................705-742-1481 Niijkiwendidaa Anishnaabe-Kwewag ................................................................................................705-741-0900 Ontario Disability Support Program ................................................................................................705-742-9292 Ontario Early Years Centre - Peterborough ................................................................................................705-748-9144 Ontario Works ................................................................................................705-742-9292 Peterborough Access Centre ................................................................................................705-743-2212 Peterborough Chamber of Commerce ................................................................................................705-748-9771 Peterborough Community Legal Centre ................................................................................................705-749-9355 Peterborough County - Children’s Services Division ................................................................................................705-748-8830 Peterborough County - City Health Unit ................................................................................................705-743-1000 Peterborough Family Resource Centre ................................................................................................705-748-9144 Peterborough Public Library ................................................................................................705-745-5560 Peterborough Sport and Wellness Centre ................................................................................................705-742-0050 Peterborough Pregnancy Support Services ................................................................................................705-742-4015 The Learning Disabilities Association of Peterborough ................................................................................................705-748-9455 Tri-County Community Support Services ...............................................................................................705-876-9245 Victim Services Peterborough Northumberland ............................................................................................1-888-822-7729 YWCA Crossroads Shelter ................................................................................................705-743-4135
6
Issue #8 | www.Discovering-Women.com | 2014
Crystal Project works year-round to help women’s shelters By Melodie McCullough
In Photo: Debbie Brown Photo by: MB Graphics & Events
If only a younger Debbie Brown had known about women’s shelters when she needed them, her life might have been a bit easier. It is this thought that has propelled her to help other women in the community in the same situation. Along with some special friends, she created the “Crystal Project”, a vendor event and silent auction to raise awareness and funds for the city’s three women’s shelters and provide Christmas gifts for their residents. “Years ago, in my 20s, I was in an abusive relationship,” said Debbie, 57, a local insurance broker. “Luckily, I was removed from the situation by a friend before it became life threatening and there were no children involved. But if I had known there were shelters in Toronto, it would have changed my life faster.”
Debbie said she had never really dealt with that period in her life until she heard about the Shoebox Project – a volunteer Canada-wide initiative started in 2011 which collects and distributes gifts in the form of shoeboxes to women in shelters. Now as the Peterborough coordinator, she has taken the idea one step further and is collecting “all year round” and is tackling the shelters’ wish lists.
Last year the drop boxes were overflowing and the Crystal Project event received an overwhelming response, netting about 150 shoeboxes filled with small donations of toiletries, jewelry, chocolate and knitted items, enough for every shelter resident. It also raised $3,000, enough to stock the shelters with similar items for a year, and provide each woman with special gift cards. Community feedback has been positive and Debbie was nominated by Lynn Zimmerman, executive director of the local YWCA, co-workers and friends for this year’s city Community Betterment Civic Award. “It’s very rewarding to see how much it was appreciated by these women,” said Debbie. “It’s taken off. It has helped me, too, like therapy. I wanted to volunteer in the community, and this grabbed me.” This year’s event will be Oct. 26, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at ARIA on George Street with 40 vendors and entertainment. If you are interested in being a vendor, please contact Debbie. Shoebox donations can be dropped off year-round at Nelms Opticians at Lansdowne Place; Monkman, Gracie and Johnston, 261 George. St.; and Herbal One, 1524 Lansdowne W. If you would like a copy of the shelter’s wish lists, Debbie can be reached at 705-652-1645 or brown_debbie99@yahoo.ca
2014 | www.Discovering-Women.com | Issue #8 7
Finding the Balance
Dr. Susan Joyce
Photo by: MB Graphics & Events
By Dr. Susan Joyce, N.D.
We are women.
We are Naturopathic Doctors. We run our own business. We are moms and wives. We truly understand what it means to be Women in Business. Our clinic, Healthy Foundations Naturopathic Clinic, opened in 2012. This was a busy time in our lives, with young families at home and juggling work-life balance. This experience of starting a practice, while still maintaining our most important roles of moms and wives, has been a huge impetus in driving us to create a clinic that honours women and women’s health. Here are some things we have found helpful in finding balance in our lives: • Find and develop a support ‘team’. Using such practitioners as chiropractors, massage therapists, counsellors and Naturopathic Doctors will help support your overall wellbeing. • Be present in the moment. In our society, we are pulled in many directions. Social media is everywhere and our phones are basically attached to our ears. However, we know that to truly appreciate and get the most out of any experience, we need to be present and not think about the laundry or how many emails are waiting. Observe and listen to the people around you –
88 Issue #8 | www.Discovering-Women.com | 2014
you may be surprised at what you learn. • Ensure you are getting the nutritional support your body needs to forge through your busy life. We utilize testing options, such as hair mineral analysis or blood tests, to determine if we are deficient in certain nutrients. We also perform food allergy testing to determine if certain foods are not agreeing with our systems. When we fuel our body with the proper nutrients, we get so much more accomplished! • Learn from others. We spend a lot of time with our patients and learn something new every day. We are so grateful, as this newly acquired knowledge allows us to help more people. • Feel proud of your accomplishments. We know we are doing our best to balance work and family. We are not perfect, but we are proud to be trying. • Be thankful. We truly love our role as Naturopathic Doctors and we love our families. Life is good. Dr. Dana Marshall and Dr. Susan Joyce own and operate Healthy Foundations Naturopathic Clinic. In September they will be moving to their new location at 291 Charlotte Street. Find out more at www.healthyfoundations.ca For information, call 705-243-5163 or email info@healthyfoundations.ca.
An Easy Take-to-Work Lunch Crisp Salmon-Cabbage Salad Ingredients: One 5-ounce can salmon, drained 2 cups ďŹ nely chopped green or red cabbage, from about 4 ounces or 1/4 of a small head of cabbage 1/4 cup minced chives, from about 1/4 ounce chives 1 tablespoon mayonnaise 3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt Salt and freshly ground black pepper Directions: Shred the salmon with a fork and mix thoroughly with the cabbage. Stir in the chives, mayonnaise, and yogurt. Taste and add salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate for up to two days. Yield: two 1-cup servings NUTRITION per serving (approximately): 240 calories; total fat 9g; Cholesterol 40mg; Sodium 155mg; Potassium 467mg; Carbs 9g; Fibre 2g; sugar 5g; protein 26g; Vitamin C 54%; Calcium 33%
Check more recipes at www.discoveryourcommunity.com
2014 | www.Discovering-Women.com | Issue #8
9
Scan with your Smartphone for Promotions and Both are TM more
www.DiscoveryourCommunity.
Check our Special offers at:
10
Issue #8 | www.Discovering-Women.com | 2014
MOVING PICTURES ™ #5 BABETTE’S FEAST By Terri Catlin I know it’s not in vogue to use (or even like) narration in a film, but I must confess that I love it. I love the way a good narration cradles you in a warm and assured vocal embrace, guiding you into a strange new world within the cocoon of a dark theatre or your own living room. This is how we are lulled into the wonderfully foreign setting of a remote 19th century Danish village, in the 1988 Academy Award winner for Best Foreign Language Film, Babette’s Feast. This is the story of two pious, young sisters, known for their great beauty. They are desired by many young men, but they are devoted to their father and his ministry. For years after their father’s passing, they carry on his work, caring for the old and infirm and trying to provide a spiritual compass for his aging flock. One day, a woman appears in their tiny village, seeking shelter and work. The sisters live meagerly and can’t afford to pay her, but they give her a home and a place to find purpose. After many years, the woman (Babette) has an unexpected change in fortune and must decide what is next for her.
In photo: Terri Catlin
We all must deal with crossroads, and the choices we make determine whether we will have satisfying memories or bitter regrets. What is so poignant about Babette’s choice is that it is based in her commitment to be true to her deepest self, providing an incredible act of generosity. And isn’t that what we all want? To express who we are and to contribute to others?
In an age where fame and “success” are goals in and of themselves, it is refreshingly old-fashioned to tell a tale that has us think about what we truly value in the quiet solitude of our hearts, with no concern about what others will say. Wanting only, as Babette says, “...the chance to do my very best.” Babette’s Feast is nourishing food for thought - a gourmet meal for the mind, to savour and linger over. And that is unfashionably rare. Terri Catlin is an actor, writer and director. www.terricatlin.com/writer
2014| www.Discovering-Women.com | Issue #8 11
For Burgandy’s Tina Parkes, Life Can Only Get Better
By Melodie McCullough
In Photo: Finlayson In Photo: Dr. TinaOlga Parkes
Tina Parkes, owner of Burgandy’s Hair Salon, can’t believe how far she’s come in the last 10 years – and can’t wait to see what the next 10 years bring. “If I look back at my dreams, I always wanted to own a salon,” she says. “Twelve years ago that opportunity came up very suddenly. It was a huge learning curve for me and a difficult time with two small children, but I achieved my goals.” Her salon at 154 Charlotte St. is open Monday to Saturday and late Wednesday and Thursday for the after-office crowd, employing seven full-time staff. It offers hair cuts for men, women and children, colouring, highlights, facial waxing, straightening, perms, hair chalk and steam pod treatments, and carries L’Oreal Professionnel colours and products.
All this comes in an at-home atmosphere where attention to detail is everything. Some exciting renovations are also now underway at the salon. Originally from Toronto, Tina spent her childhood summers at her parents’ business in Baileboro and moved here permanently 24 years ago. She says she decided many years ago she loved “doing hair”. She worked at Burgandy’s for 10 years as a stylist before buying it 12 years ago, taking on the challenge – and succeeding -- of becoming a businesswoman over and above a hair stylist. But the best part of her job is pleasing people. “When my customers leave they feel good about themselves,” she says. “In turn that makes me happy, so it’s a great job for me.” She also enjoys mentoring her staff, encouraging them to continually upgrade their skills, think positively and set goals, just like does. “I’m big on goal-setting. I’m still moving forward, never sitting still. There are always changes to be made and ways to improve.” “I think how fortunate I am and how far I’ve come,” she continues. “My life can only get better. The sky’s the limit. So I say look on the bright side. Something is always coming along. It’s right there ready for you to grab onto.” Tina can be reached at Burgandy’s at 705-876-1266.
12
Issue #8 | www.Discovering-Women.com | 2014
Did you get that at Tragically Hipp? By Evelyne derKinderen Is a re-occurring question that one might ask when seeing someone wearing a distinctive style. The Hipp is known for its unique branding of sassy, classy and flattering fashions for the mature Customer who wants to see herself authentic and confidently stylish. The owner, Evelyne derKinderen, selects every piece herself with her clientele in mind.
In Photo: Evelyne derKinderen Photo by: MB Graphics & Events
“I have the eye”, says Evelyne “I have always been good intuitively with styling and I love the concept of shopping and finding unique clothes that make an original statement about one’s personality. I am able to offer the ladies what is lacking in the retail market. I am a people pleaser and have a passion about connecting with gals who love what I do.”
Evelyne continues “Women are looking for something different. We all have our unique shapes. At the Hipp we love to work with shapes. It’s fun to dress our ladies with styles that make them feel important, confident and pretty. We make sure that a purchase is a happy purchase and not an iffy decision. We want our ladies to wear their Hipp Fashions and not have them become another dinosaur in their closet because we all have a few of them already.” The Hipp Staff is fun, helpful, down-to-earth and knowledgeable with Sara Elchyson as manager, Kelley Rivers-Currie as the excellent styling and retail sales coach, together with Elizabeth McMahon and Cheryl Emery they complete the wonderful sales team at this Lakefield Boutique. “My staff is just as important as I am. We make it work. I do the shopping, and they keep it hopping! I wouldn’t be here without them or they without me. Any business should have that sort of healthy connection. We are a team that works!”, Evelyne explains laughingly. A surprise awaits their full figured Lady Customers: This fall, Tragically Hipp is going to open a PLUS SIZE section going to 3XL. It is a known fact that sizes are shrinking and women are faced with fashion challenges which are just not necessary. “This addition to our store feels right” says Evi, excitingly. Tragically Hipp Fashions supports many local charities. Fashion shows are a seasonal treat where current and future customers get to enjoy new fashion styles on stage. Often we use our customers as our models. “Tragically Hipp Fashions supports many local charities. Some of the donations include the Crystal Project, Five Counties Children Center and other important missions that make a difference to the well being of all humanity”, she says. Evelyne has started her own charity called “Happy Heart” which helps teens receive treatment forWild depression. She is exIn photo Kathleen cited to announce their first ever fashion show and fundraiser for this charity on Oct.17 at the Lakefield Inn. Tickets go on sale Sept. 5 with all funds going to help a local teenager suffering from depression. The show starts at 7 pm. and Evelyne promises a wildly fun show! The Hipp can be reached at 705-652-0666 or tragicallyhipp@mail.com
2014 | www.Discovering-Women.com | Issue #8
13
By Erin Bell, RNCP, R. BIE BIOS Natural Health Clinic
Nutritional Notes
Eat to Work! of the biggest masks of hunger. We are often not as hungry as we think -- we are more dehydrated than hungry.
In Photo: Erin Bell Photography by: MB Graphics & Events
Eat Locally Choosing locally grown foods is not only an economical choice, but it is a better choice for your health. Local farms are often organic, pesticide and herbicide free, and the produce is harvested at the right time (as opposed to way before its time). The foods are fresher and you get the chance to become familiar with the growers. Farm fresh eggs, free-range chicken, homemade breads and grass-fed beef will have you returning to the taste of homegrown traditionsPhoto everyby: MB Graphics & Events week. These markets are not limited to Heather Wasson In photo: fruits and veggies as many vendors proOne of the most common things I duce meat and dairy products, crafts, maple have heard in my practice over the syrup, specialty cheeses, breads and pastries. past six years is how difficult it can be to eat nutritious foods on the go! Many Eating healthy does not have to be expensive people tell me how they simply don’t and burdensome. You can make everyday have the time when working, so they food choices that stretch your budget and skip meals and often go all day with- allow for maintaining good health. Choosing from a variety of fresh fruits and out having had anything decent to eat. vegetables as well as lean choices of meats and proteins will provide energy to fuel your workday. Grazing WORK, EAT, THRIVE! Eating smaller meals spread throughout the day has a more stabilizing effect on blood sugar – preventing spikes and sudden increases in it and insulin. Make sure you begin EACH day with breakfast. This is the most important meal you can eat, as blood sugar and energy is lower in the morning. Choose healthy snacks and meals that include a portion of protein with each serving. Water! Our bodies consist of about 6070% WATER. If we do not replenish and maintain hydration throughout the day, the body must compensate and often becomes dehydrated, which is one
14 14
Issue #8 | www.Discovering-Women.com | 2014
PLACES & EVENTS
Peterborough and Surroundings Sept Lang Pioneer Village Museum’s Fall Colour Tours September 2, to October 31, 2014 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM 104 Lang Rd. Keene, Ontario langpioneervillage.ca 705-295-6694 Disney Junior Presents Imagination Movers in Concert September 23, 2014 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM Showplace Performance Centre 290 George St. N. Peterborough, Ontario showplace.org 705-742-SHOW (7469) Publican House Brewery Presents Josh Gontier September 26, 2014 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM PPublican House Brewery 300 Charlotte St. Peterborough, Ontario thepublicanhouse.com 705-874-5743 Kawartha Autumn Studio Tour September 27, 28, 2014 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Peterborough & the Kawarthas Ontario thekawarthas.ca
Oct
Nov-Dec
Jennifer Lawton Exhibit at Gallery on the Lake October 4, 2014 10:00 AM October 31, 2014 5:00 PM Free 1 Gallery on the Lake 65 Gallery on the Lake Rd. Buckhorn, Ontario 705-657-1108
Mom2Mom Nov 08, 2014 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM Morrow Building 121 Lansdowne St W, Peterborough ON
Kawartha Music Jams Tweet October 4, 2014 4:00 PM Free Marks Finer Diner 128 Lansdowne St. E. Peterborough, Ontario 705-742-8181 Family photo Event MB Graphics Photography Oct 12, 2014 10:30 AM - 2:00 PM Cost $60 15-20 photos on CD 2 5x7 prints Millennium Park (Call to RSVP) mbgraphicsevents@yahoo.com 705-768-1035
Women Empowering Women Network Dinner Oct 21, 2014 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM Ricky’s All Day grill Unit 4b 898 Monaghan Road, Peterborough, ON, (Call to RSVP) discovering-women.com 705-768-1035
ChristmAS Shopping Downtown Mount Pleasant November 22, 2014 11:00 AM -3:00 PM November 23, 2014 12:00 PM -4:00 PM many vendors and pictures with Santa by Kristine Hannah Photography tranquilitybeautispa.com
Nick of Time Craft Show November 23 - 24,2014 $2 Buckhorn Community Centre 1782 Lakehurst Rd. Buckhorn, Ontario buckhorncommunitycentre.com 705-657-8833 Christmas by Candlelight at Lang Pioneer Village Museum December 6,2014 4:00 PM December 7,2014 8:00 PM Lang Pioneer Village Museum 104 Lang Rd. Keene, Ontario 705-295-6694
2014 | www.Discovering-Women.com | Issue #8
15
Retired Teacher Finds Healing Through Art By Melodie McCullough Retired teacher Gail Nicholson, 67, has known a lot of heartache -- childhood abuse, the loss of her father, the loss of her adult daughter, and recently her husband’s dementia. But five years ago something happened to ease the pain. She began to paint and, to her surprise, became good at it. “I hated art when I went to school,” says Gail. “But here at home, alone, I just go at it. I never know where it’s going. I choose my colours for what I’m feeling, and whatever turns up, turns up.” In Photo: Gail Nicholson She now regularly exhibits her art at Gallery in the Attic on Hunter Street in
Peterborough, mostly abstract acrylics and encaustics. Gail was born in the backwoods of New Brunswick, moved to Ontario at age six, taught elementary students for 33 years two in Brazil - and followed her husband, Don, and his clergy- related jobs around Ontario. They came to Peterborough in 1988 and she retired from South Monaghan Public School in 2005. After growing up with a difficult step-father Gail found love in marriage and in their two daughters, Heather and Laura. Ten years ago Heather gave birth to a son but died 18 days later from a blood clot, also leaving behind her husband and 22month-old daughter. Deep grief became consuming. Gail was first encouraged to paint at a Living Waters conference she often attends. “Just put a mark on the canvass”, she was told. The next year she put a couple of marks; it took a fourth try to actually “paint”. “I started dealing with my stuff from years of abuse and losses. I feel so free now and I think that’s why the art has become free-flowing,” she says. “It’s an expression of my feelings and spirituality. I’m not trying to make a picture. We’re taught to use logic and reason, but our emotions are healthy and good and giving them expression contributes to our health.” Gail spends her retirement working part-time as a certified pastoral counsellor, managing a home and Don’s care, enjoying her grand-children and Laura – and, of course, painting. Gail can be reached at gail.nicholson0411@gmail.com
16 Issue #8 | www.Discovering-Women.com | 2014
Under One Sun: Changing Lives in Haiti By Melodie McCullough
In Photo: Stephanie Guyatt
When you choose a pretty necklace at your local store, do you wonder where it came from or who made it? Do you think to yourself “could I change a life with this purchase”? What if you could? Under One Sun is a local initiative begun by Stephanie Guyatt a year ago which, from her Peterborough home, sells jewelry, accessories and metal art made in Haiti, and provides sustainable employment opportunities for Haitian artisans. “It’s so rewarding on so many levels,” said Stephanie. “I get to see their lives being transformed and see a child, who was malnourished, now with food on the table. I see the artisans feel the dignity that comes with working every day. That is so beautiful.”
While on a mission trip to Haiti with Worldwide Orphans Foundation two years ago, she discovered many parents, without jobs, send their children to orphanages. With two small children of her own, her heart ached. During a later trip, she found an artisan co-op which creates jobs for 300 mothers and fathers who sell their work world-wide. Stephanie decided to bring some home to Canada, and is now the sole outlet in the country. Her motto is “restoring dignity through artistry”. “I felt it was something I needed to do. We are so abundantly blessed here, and it’s amazing how it can change your own life, too.” The beautiful creations are all repurposed from Haitian clay, and recycled paper, tin and aluminum. The artisans receive a “fair, livable wage” – enough to feed, shelter and educate their children and extended family members. The group also receives medical benefits and has on-site day care. Sharing their stories is also important. Details of the artisan’s life come with each purchase. “It’s about changing the cycles of poverty for families and generations,” said Stephanie. “Their children will be educated and go on to seek employment for themselves. I am so proud of them.” Stephanie also encourages her customers to sponsor Haitian children to attend school. She can be reached through her website: underonesun.ca
2014 | www.Discovering-Women.com | Issue #8 #7 17 2013 | 4ww.Discovering-Women.com | Issue #6 7 17
By Paul Lavergne
Dealing with Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Sexual harassment in the workplace is a HUGE problem. According to Canadian Labour Relations, over 90% of women claimed to have experienced some type of sexual harassment in their lifetime! Sexual harassment is defined as the following: “The making of unwanted and offensive sexual advances or of sexually offensive remarks or acts, especially by one in a superior or supervisory position or when acquiescence to such behavior is a condition of continued employment, promotion, or satisfactory evaluation.” Some examples are: • asking for sex in exchange for a benefit or a favour • repeatedly asking for dates, and not taking “no” for an answer • demanding hugs • making unnecessary physical contact, including unwanted touching • using rude or insulting language or making comments toward others • calling people sex-specific derogatory names • making sex-related comments about a person’s physical characteristics or actions • saying or doing something because you think a person does not conform to sex-role stereotypes • posting or sharing pornography, sexual pictures or cartoons, sexually explicit graffiti, or other sexual images (including online) • making sexual jokes • bragging about sexual prowess. Although men and women may both experience harassment at work, women are much more likely to. It is also more common in certain male-dominated work environments. What are a person’s options if he or she is experiencing harassment? Employers in Ontario have a legal duty to take steps to both prevent and address allegations of harassment. Larger companies have a clear, comprehensive antisexual harassment policy in place, and tribunals are set up to address allegations and enforce policy.
In Photo: Paul Lavergne
In this case you can file a human rights claim by following the links below: Contact the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario at: Toll Free: 1-866-598-0322 TTY: 416-326-2027 or Toll Free: 1-866-607-1240 Website:www.hrto.ca To talk about your rights or if you need legal help with a human rights application, contact the Human Rights Legal Support Centre at: Toll Free: 1-800-387-9080 TTY: 416-326 0603 or Toll Free: 1-800-308-5561 Website: www.hrlsc.on.ca
In smaller companies there may be a manager or a single boss to talk to. This can be a problem if the boss is the source of the harassment and not accountable to anyone.
Check our You Tube Channel and interview with Paul Lavergne and the effects of Porn 18
Issue #8 | www.Discovering-Women.com | 2014
Continued from page...5
One person can make a difference “If we affect some woman’s life in a positive way, we affect generations of women to come. Even one person can make a difference in one other person’s life.” Sometimes asking the right questions is all it takes – ‘what’s inside of you that’s aching to get out?’ - leading them to ask themselves the right questions, she said. Robin has passed on to her daughters her positive life philosophy. Her younger daughter, Brenna, 14, recently graduated from Grade 8 as school valedictorian at St. Teresa School. Robin has been volunteering at the school and hopes to continue. She has also volunteered for many years, first at Marycrest which is now closed, and at St. Joseph’s at Fleming, where her older daughter, Dana, 31, works. Robin is married to John, one of her greatest cheerleaders and supporters. Robin advises women to surround themselves with positive people, embrace their obstacles and just take that leap of faith. “Tell yourself you deserve everything and you can do anything. You are an amazing woman. You have one life to live and this is it. Know you are so special and so important and people do care. You are enough.” Robin can be reached through her website: beautyin10.com; by email at robinroblin@hotmail.com; or tel – 705-876-0933, cell – 705-761-8189. http://www.marykay.ca/rcourneya-roblin Follow in Facebook and Twitter @Beautyin10
Visit our website
www.Discovering-Women.com Visit our website www.Discoveryourcommunity.com
2014 | www.Discovering-Women.com | Issue #8
19
Building a Thriving Business is-Ticket to Blogging is easy, accessible Just write you know, stay focused Self-Confidence
what
In Photo: Shelley Semchison
By Melodie McCullough
Why
would
According it-yourself commonly people to
anyone
A new-found self-confidence is just one of the many benefits that came with the creation and development of her very own business, Shelley Semchison has discovwant ered. to start a blog?
“I walk to one self-described prouda little aunt,taller do- and prouder,” says the owner of Tranquility Mobile Spa/Home crafter and povertySpa activist, logs, Parties,web which she started four years ago. known as blogs, allow communities of share ideas on topics shared interest. Theof Lindsay native worked as a family law clerk in Peterborough and Lindsay for 26 years until she retired in May. She continues to do part-time book-
“Blogs provide a wonderful opportunity to keeping with the firm. But she always wanted to become her own boss, discuss what you are working on and thinking and now that she has accomplished her goal she loves every minute. about,” says Laura Vanderherberg, whose own blog focuses on family, crafting and social justice issues. She is a certified facial technician specializing in facial, hand and foot treatments. She provides spa services, both
from her own home studio and at others’ homes, either one-on-one or at bridal showers, birthday parties and girl-getStill fairly blogging, Laura is which gratefulshe todescribes as “awesome”. togethers. Shenew uses to BeautiControl products have been introduced to the pastime by a friend.
“It’s been a real fun journey,” she continues. “I love making a difference. I love pampering women. We don’t “She helped me a lot when I got started,” says Laura. spend enough time on ourselves. I find that the most rewarding of what I do. I will probably do this forever.” “She taught me it was okay to ask a friend for help, and, once I got started, that I should give my blog a focus.”
Separated and on her own for the past eight years with a son, now 21, she says she is now independent and strong. She found challenge building during the first year. She advises women starting out to “be consistent Just her as main important, as was your focus,a clientele is disciplindaily control ing and yourself to your stay calendar”. on topic, according to Laura. “Find sure up toyou three topic areas by making a long “Make maintain a work-life balance. “ list of
things you know about, and that you might want to write about, thenin the choose your top Shelley has participated local Dragon Boatthree,” races for the past 11 years on the “Legal Secs” team. Friends and famsays Laura. “Write only on those topics.”
ily have been affected by cancer, she says.
Once you have decided what you will write about, it’s
“Ijust loveasupporting do with women. The money that is raised in Peterborough stays here. So it makes a difmatter of something opening a to blog account and getting ference started.for the women who actually live here.” Through her business, she also who share “I’ve observed that there aremeets very women few barriers to their stories of trials and troubles, and she likes helping them asgetting best asstarted,” she can. says Laura. “Blogs are accessible to
virtually anyone because of such low- or no-cost TM TM resources Blogger WordPress . And, you can “My clientsashave been and a huge influence. Youif find out there’s women who have been through a lot. You’re not alone.” type, you can blog.” Shelley may be reached through her website at www.tranquilitybeautispa.com; on facebook www.facebook.com/spawith-
shelley; via email at spawithshelley@gmail.com and at 705- 930-2332. Laura Vanderherberg lives in Peterborough. She invites the readers of Discovering Women to visit her blog at www.lauraannv.blogspot.ca, and to contact her by email (laura.vanderherberg@gmail.com), if they would like to discuss how to get their own blog started.
20 20
Issue #8 | www.Discovering-Women.com | 2014
2014 | www.Discovering-Women.com | Issue #8
21
A little Faith goes a long way By Melodie McCullough
In Photo: Faith Dickinson
Her mother says she’s an old soul – empathetic, mature and determined – who has made over 800 fleece blankets for those who need some warmth in their lives. And she’s only 12 years old. Faith Dickinson is “the blanket girl” from Stoney Lake, who started making the hand-made blankets two years ago for cancer patients. Cuddles for Cancer has since grown to include blankets for Canadian soldiers, the disabled, the homeless – all because, she simply says, “everyone deserves a cuddle”. “I just wish I could make everyone feel good,” says Faith, adorned in her trademark head band and bow, in Grade 7 at Lakefield Intermediate School. It started with a year-end gift for her teacher of a blanket she made. The teacher said, “I’m going to cuddle into it.” Then Faith’s aunt in Alberta
developed breast cancer (she is now in remission) and mentioned how cold she got when undergoing chemo treatments. That was the impetus for Faith. Her life now revolves around fund-raising to buy fabric for the blankets, which cost about $80 to make. She receives requests for them from hospitals, churches and individuals around the world, and also distributes them at Sick Kids Hospital. A year ago she started making them for soldiers in Afghanistan and Kuwait, military families in Canada who have lost a soldier to suicide, and veterans at Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto. “She has a strong affinity with them, a really soft spot in her heart for them,” says her mom Carrie. “She likes to meet them, get to know them.” But that empathy has grown from a family, including dad Mike and two older siblings, which leads by example, both locally and globally. “We always try to teach our kids to be thankful for every day, and count your blessings,” says Carrie. “There’s always someone with less than you who is struggling.” Faith is writing a book about her experiences. “It’s not a big chapter book,” she says. “It has pictures and tells people about my journey. I want people to understand they can pursue their dreams at any age. You’re never too young to make a difference.” Donations can be sent to: P.O. Box 1317, Lakefield, Ont., K0L 2H0 or through cuddlesforcancer@hotmail.com. Twitter: @cuddles_4cancer
22
Issue #8 | www.Discovering-Women.com | 2014