WORD FOR THE DAY "authenticity" (n.) "the quality of being authentic; genuineness;" "authentic" (adj.) "not false or copied; genuine; real." (dictionary.com)

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36 chapters speak to Gaye Lindfors' authenticity

Two intense weeks of editing was this writer's contribution to Gaye Lindfors' motivational memoir collection God, Girlfriends, & Chocolate - Encouraging Stories from the Heart. The words that supplied the substance of the book came from Gaye and six girlfriends, each of whom contributed their own short chapter. They represent the authentic manner in which this group of girlfriends live their faith in Jesus and the Father throughout the chapters of their lives.

Gaye Lindfors is an author, motivational speaker, owner of Significant Solutions, Inc., a human resources consulting and training company. She believes in the faithfulness of God toward His people. She gives examples of a range of human pleasures, pains, and predicaments that she's encountered in her lifetime. Many of these we can relate to because they're very representative of the average human being's encounter with life on earth. I certainly can relate.

One chapter especially resonated with me – "I Will Give You Rest." This is chapter 21, and it deals with the experience Gaye and her sisters had of helping their newly widowed mother downsize prior to a move from the family home. Here they all are, fresh with the grief of Dad's death, trying to be sensitive to their Mother's desire to hang on to ALL THE STUFF, but knowing that this change, this new chapter to their Mom's life, must unfold. Each daughter makes her contribution to the effort. But, what happens when fatigue, grief, frustration, and fear of change unravel their best intentions? Laughter and their love of the Almighty save the day. So does the contribution of a visiting Godsend – their friend from next door, Harlow.

 

(My siblings and I moved my father from northern Minnesota lake living in 2006 to assisted living and finally, to a nursing home in St. Cloud. After his death in 2009, the disposal of his personal effects also brought my mother and my five siblings together in grief and shared memories as we sorted through dusty and moldy "stuff." It was a time of healing.)

 

The book is definitely worth the read because you'll relate, too. Have you ever been terrified as a child with a new experience, like swimming in deep water at summer camp? Have you had a prominent role at a funeral of a loved one and had to steel your emotions? Have you ever messed up at work and been taken-to-task? Gaye has. Her honesty pulls us right into the experience. Her empathy with our stories is evident. Very generously, she shares with us her human reflections about moving through the "growth experiences" that comprise our lives and shows us how she did it, with God's help. Finally, she gives us prayers of asking, thanking, praising, and reflection that we can use as we strive to live authentic lives of Christian faith.

 

As a fellow Christian, I appreciate the authenticity of her insights as well as those of her girlfriends. (And, the thoughts of her parents upon the death of one of their children will tug at your heart.) I am most appreciative of the testimonial she gave me about my editing services – "Mary MacDonell Belisle provided more than exceptional editing skills. She understood my spirit and intentions, and offered suggestions that helped me write better stories. What a joy to work with her."

 

Well, it was a joy for me to meet and get to know Gaye through our collaboration. If you're interested in getting to know Gaye and her girlfriends and family, read her book, God, Girlfriends & Chocolate. Contact her at Gaye@SignificantSolutionsInc.com. Or, visit her company website at: http://www.significantsolutionsinc.com/

WORD FOR THE DAY “response” (n.) “an answer or reply, as in words or in some action.” (dictionary dot com)

 

7 words, 7 ways to effective response letters

 

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A sad story . . .

 

The hospital direct mailed ELEVEN THOUSAND fundraising letters and got ZERO response, chiefly because of what the letter didn’t do. It didn’t use client stories well, didn’t connect emotionally with “you, the donor,” and, there was no clear and compelling call to action (among other things). The hospital could NOT AFFORD to repeat the mistake. So, I wrote a better direct response letter for their next mailing. You can generate response from your letter, too.

 

Here are six ways you can create an effective fundraising letter:

 

CONSIDER the audience. In the hospital’s case, they were mailing to folks who’d been patients at the hospital, those who had an intimate knowledge of the type of service the hospital offered. However, that point was never addressed, or leveraged, in the letter. So, remember your audience.

 

“CUT to the chase.” Get to the point of the letter immediately (unless your story demands a dramatic build-up). People don’t want to be kept guessing. An option is to use a bold heading before the body of the letter. Certainly, you must mention it in the first paragraph.

 

CONNECT on a personal level. It’s important to make a connection with your reader, to let him or her feel as if you had an interest in them, not just their money. Use words like “you” and “your,” rather than speaking from the perspective of “I,” “we,” “us,” “our.” If your paragraphs all begin with the word “We,” then, retool.

 

COMPELL readers with a client / customer story. Everyone appreciates a good story. You’ve got plenty of them among your client pool. Ask for the testimonial. Conduct an in-depth interview. Craft your story with details and descriptive words to draw the reader into the experience. Structure the story for dramatic impact – introduce the characters; present the situation/problem; show the struggle by the client and how he/she felt; detail the response/solution made by your organization; celebrate the happy ending.

 

CLARITY and CONVERSATIONAL tone, please. Basic, simple sentences (subject/verb) communicate well. Many experts suggest an eighth-grade vocabulary. Reduce redundancy; you don’t need multiple paragraphs repeating the “ask.” Your problem and call-to-action should be stated no more than three times – general ask at the beginning, specifics in the middle, and a reminder in the PS at the end of the letter. And, for Heaven’s sake, change-up the language of that call-to-action.

 

CAPTURE CURIOSITY with teaser copy on the envelope. You want your prospect to open the direct-mail piece and respond.

 

The value I brought to the hospital client was my nearly seven years of writing “ask” letters for a faith-based human services agency and its 40 service programs. It also helped me to have come from a theater and story-telling background. My letter will pay off in donations for the hospital. I guarantee it.

 

So, to guarantee the creation of the best response to your fundraising direct-mail letter is to remember seven words and their corresponding actions: CONSIDER (audience); CUT (to the chase); CONNECT (personally); COMPELL (action and emotion); CLARITY (in style); CONVERSATIONAL (in tone); and CAPTURE CURIOSITY.

 

WORD FOR THE DAY “cliché” (n.) 1. a trite, stereotyped expression; a sentence or phrase, usually expressing a popular or common thought or idea, that has lost originality, ingenuity, and impact by long overuse, as “sadder but wiser,” or “strong as an ox.” 2. A trite or hackneyed plot, character development, use of color, musical expression, etc. 3. Anything that has become trite or commonplace through overuse.” (dictionary dot com)

 

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Clichés are a lazy writer’s crutches, a businesses waste of space

 

Do you know clichés can cost you buy-in and business? Of course, there’s no real way to test this theory, but it stands to reason that they do. A cliché is “anything that’s become trite or common through overuse.” Example: "Think outside the box." Overused words and phrases – clichés – are not compelling. If they’re not compelling, then, they’re not working for you.

 

In the case of language, clichés are musty, tired, and fill up space on a page. Rarely do clichés motivate behavior. This overused language is actually the BLAH BLAH that lazy writers spew and some businesses mistakenly think is GOOD business writing because “all businesses write that way” … which is my point, exactly. Business writing – and any writing, for that matter – should be energized, fresh, and unique to the business or organization. It should create word pictures in the brains of readers (or listeners) and rely heavily on specifics to communicate for the purpose of educating on a topic or selling a product, service, idea, philosophy, plan of action, etc.

 

How often have you heard (and even used) these examples of tired business language? –

            1. Think outside the box.

            2. Create a win-win situation.

            3. Give 110 percent.

            4. Drop the ball.

            5. Take it to the next level.

 

It’s important to take more time or spend more budget on a professional writer to avoid clichés. Use strong, unique language to capture attention, create interest, and inspire action.

     1. Instead of thinking outside the box… take a creative  new direction.

     2. Rather than a win-win … make everybody happy.

     3. To give 110, how about going beyond what you ever thought possible?

     4. If you’ve dropped the ball, you’ve failed, disappointed, or not met the performance standard.

     5. Want to take it to the next level? Grow. Improve. Excel. (Whatever.)

 

A wise business or organization understands that words are powerful and should be chosen wisely. Why waste time and money on communication that doesn’t work for you?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

< http://info.venderepartners.com/bid/48529/The-Top-100-Overused-Business-Clich%C3%A9s >–

“The Top 100 Overused Business Cliches”  (Now, isn’t that title redundant?” I’m just sayin’ . . . )

< http://www.squidoo.com/businesscliches > The Encyclopedia of Business Cliches, “It’s About Clarity.”

 

WORD FOR THE DAY “probity” (n.) [proh’ bi tee] “Integrity and uprightness; honesty.” Syn. fidelity, Integrity, rectitude, sincerity."(dictionary.com)

Probably choose Chris Jacques for his probity

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He wouldn’t do it. Chris Jacques wouldn’t sell me a service I didn’t need for my business. Now, that’s a person with probity. I learned about Chris when we sat down to visit over coffee at Caribou. There were some surprises, too . . .

 

“I’m pretty needs focused,” said Chris, an account executive for World Pay, a global credit and rewards card processor. “If you don’t need my service, I’m going to tell you what you need to hear, not what I’d like to hear.”

 

Keep your ears open. Everyday you learn something new about people, what they do, and what drives them, like probity.

           

For example, Chris introduced me to World Pay. OK, I’m not big into commerce – after all, this writer is a simple wordsmith – so I wasn’t aware of the existence of one of the three top global processors of purchasing plastic. He told me that World Pay handles all types of cards and processing equipment, you know, those terminals at the checkout where you swipe your card. While we munched on banana bread and bagel, Chris told me about products like a Virtual Terminal and a mobile app with scanner for tradeshow point-of-sale needs. He even got real serious about the Advantage Protection Plan. This World Pay plan addresses a merchant’s PCI (Payment Card Industry) compliance requirements to be a secure site for credit card users, online or on-location as the store. (You know, there ARE hackers and thieves out there who want your numbers and your identity!) This speaks to his integrity (probity) and the care he has for merchants and customers. You can call Chris at 320.241.6256, email him for more info about World Pay at Chris.Jacques@worldpay.us, or go to the website at: http://www.worldpay.us/. I wouldn’t presume to speak any more about his business.

 

Chris has been in business with World Pay since October of 2011. However, he’s been in Sales for many years. I discovered that he and his wife April met in 2001 and joined Bill and my friend LuAnn Popp in a “Spouses Selling Houses” real estate businesses. He’s also been in sales and marketing for R.A. Morton. And, surprise, I learned that he was at Star 96 radio (formerly located in Waite Park in the Century 21 building on Division) when I was there, decades ago. He spearheaded the STAR VALUE PLUS show every Saturday, while I wrote copy for the products featured on this call-in-to-purchase consumer show.

 

We finished our talk by sharing vocal characters we’ve used in broadcasting. (I know … pretty hokey, but we both sound good.) Chris has a degree from Brown Institute and has voiced ads, while I have a degree in Theater, and have also done radio ads and voicing, mostly when I was a copywriter for a retail department store chain.

 

Small world.

 

So, if you’re interested in card processing services, visit with Chris Jacques of World Pay, like I did. He’s honest and won’t sell you something you don’t need. Who knows? You may also discover a few surprises and “six levels of Kevin Bacon” when you visit with him, like I did.

 

 

 

 

WORD FOR THE DAY “reinforcement” (n.) “1. the act of reinforcing; 2. the state of being reinforced; 3. something that reinforces (strengthens and makes more effective).” (dictionary dot com)  Syn.– accessory, augmentation, enhancement, supplement

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“Reinforcement” is Brian Hart’s operative word in business, life

Mild-mannered, congenial, and measured in style, that’s Brian Hart. I think you’d probably appreciate his helping you with company training, including giving pointers for your leadership, sales, and management teams. No ruler across the knuckles, writing 100 times “The customer is always right,” and no time-outs for doing something “wrong.” As a Sandler Training consultant and coach, and owner of his own franchise in St. Cloud since October 2011, Brian believes in reinforcement – strengthening abilities and making a person’s efforts more effective.

 

In this case, it’s his, and Sandler’s, big word with regard to helping businesses with selling solutions and leadership training. “Finding Power in Reinforcement,” is the company’s tagline, and Brian believes in the concept. He wouldn’t have begun his own endeavor with Sandler if he didn’t believe in its proven practices and philosophy of success.

 

"We help business owners and their sales teams achieve new levels of professional and personal success through ongoing reinforcement training and coaching," guarantees Brian of the “practical and effective selling solutions” he offers (his words). “We create lasting performance improvement, not the short-lived quick fix typical of traditional seminar-based training,” reads his LinkedIn profile at http://www.linkedin.com/in/brianfhart.

 

I believe he knows what he’s talking about – none of that “Those who can’t do teach” nonsense. After all, Brian has years of successful private and corporate sales, marketing, business development, and management experience to his credit. This includes writing and producing sales materials as well as the development of new products for Wolters Kluwer Financial Services. After 30 years of “tremendous experience” with the company, his department was downsized in 2011. Although he was offered another role, Brian parted company. He explored business options for six months, and finally chose the franchise opportunity with Sandler Training.

 

 “This was a key moment for me to change directions and begin my own enterprise,” says Brian

 

Brian told me that he liked the notion of an enterprise that helps other people, especially small businesses, since there’s often an impact on a person’s personal life when he/she strives for success. (His own entrepreneurial and sales experience began as a kid when he sold door-to-door, delivered newspapers, and maintained a garden.)  Brian’s education includes an MBA from SCSU and a Masters of Divinity degree from Weston School of Theology, Cambridge, which “trains men and women, both lay and religious, for service.” It’s apparent his thoughts about business, leadership, and service are long-standing as well.

 

Well, no two ways around it, Brian Hart believes in reinforcement. That’s his word for incremental change over time. Now was the time for Brian to begin a new coaching and training enterprise, and his talent will be reinforced as he moves through Sandler’s on-going coaching education. However, Brian’s supportive, calm, and congenial manner with everyone demonstrates to me that, bottom line, he believes in people and understands that everyone can change … for the better. And, he’d like to be part of that change. So, Brian Hart will continue to reinforce individuals’ worth everyday as he pursues his new career of serving leaders, managers, and sales teams through Sandler Training.

 

WORD FOR THE DAY "aerate" (v.) "1. to expose to or supply with air. 2. to charge or treat with air or gas. 3. to supply (the blood) with oxygen." (Random House Dictionary) Syn. "charge, oxygenate, freshen, infiltrate, ventilate" (dictionary.com)

 

"Aerate" is one word in Aaron's lawn care vocabulary

 

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Picture this – a lanky 15-year-old kid, sweating in the hot summer sun as he muscles a stubborn mower over a particularly overgrown patch of lush lawn, cuttings matting his Nikes and clinging to his socks, a wake of shorn grass spewing from either side of an old beater. That was young entrepreneur Aaron Haakonson in his formative years, executing his vision of “never working for the Man.” His parents supported his efforts, co-signing a business loan for new equipment. That was nine years ago, when Peerless Lawn Care was born. www.peerlesslawncare.com

 

Today the smell of freshly cut grass from a beautiful lawn gives Aaron a thrill, on many levels. It brings to mind those years of experience being outdoors in the morning’s cool or sultry heat of a summer afternoon, engaged in an activity that benefits another and provides him with pleasure over a lawn project completed with care, attention, and skill. Aeratin (The word means charging the lawn with air/oxygen.) lawn mowing, fertilizing, edging drives and sidewalks, and shrub trimming can by done by Peerless, with loving care.

 

Aaron surrounds himself with people who love to do what he does for commercial and residential customers. While still in high school in 2004, he added an employee to his business. The company doubled the size during the years he attended Saint John’s University, in Collegeville, where he earned a Business Administration degree in 2011. Business, lawn care, and learning remain his passions.

 

“You have to be passionate about what you’re doing in order to be successful,” says Aaron, who’s outside every chance he gets, participating in outdoor sports and hunting when he’s not doing business. “I enjoy spending time outdoors.”

 

What are Aaron’s other keys to success? HARD WORK, he says, all in capital letters for emphasis. Next, is just being genuine. With Aaron, what you see is what you get, a hard-working young man with a pleasant personality, quick to laugh but just as quick to get serious about a home or business owner’s lawn care maintenance needs. Honesty is a given. Without it, he couldn’t have built his business over the years solely on networking and customer referrals. Aaron also has the knowledge and, with a driving spirit of discovery, he’s committed to continuing education on turf/grass management. Finally, there’s reliability. Aaron’s got the task covered before the customer even knows he or she has the need!

 

This coming summer Aaron and his four-man crew will again offer professional property maintenance in the metro St. Cloud area.  (However, last fall I discovered Peerless doesn't handle overgrown hedges that are rooftop tall. I actually needed a tree guy for that job.) It might be a great time for the rest of us to enjoy the outdoors with some hammock time, and let Aaron and the guys take care of the lawn work. Sounds appealing to this writer. (I don't do lawn.)

 

WORD FOR THE DAY "creativity" (n.) "1. state of being creative; 2. the ability to transcend ideas, rules, patterns, relationships or the like, and to create meaningful new ideas, forms, methods interpretations, etc; originality, progressiveness, or imagination; 3. the process by which one utilizes creative ability." Syn. "imagination, ingenuity, talent, vision, etc." "creative" (adj.) "resulting from originality of thought, expression, etc.; imaginative; originative; productive." (dictionary.com)

 

"Artist" – a word synonymous with "creativity"

 

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"a brush with creativity"   Jill Lucas hired me over a year ago to craft a tagline for her business, Jill Lucas Design. We both knew that it had to tout her creativity. As an artist and graphic designer, Jill is full of creativity. So, I came up with "a brush with creativity." We both liked the reference to creativity and the double meaning of a paint brush (noun), which she uses in her work, and brush (verb), as in "to touch lightly in passing" or in the encounter with another person. In Jill, the word "artist" is actually synonymous with "creativity."

 

Line, form, color, design, and balance are part of Jill's makeup. She uses her hands, head, natural artistic talent, and the input of her clients to render freehand, original illustrations and technical, computer-generated layouts and designs. When I was Communications Specialist at Catholic Charities in St. Cloud, Minn., I hired Jill to redesign the logo and was very pleased with the logo. This is a specialty of hers – LOGOS. Others are hand-built event invitations. Some of the work she's done for CentraCare Health Systems' "Holly Ball" fundraising event is very lovely and yes, creative. ("They get people excited about the events," says Jill.) Jill is also adept at creating direct mail pieces and campaigns, conference and tradeshow materials, fine art and illustration (“frame-able art”), hand lettering, and silkscreen art, crafted to meet the branding and promotional needs of her clients. Her graphic design portfolio is extensive and extremely impressive.

 

 

For 30 years Jill has worked as an artist/graphic designer/desktop publisher, creating impressive, effective pieces of art for her clients. She graduated from Alexandria Vocational & Technical College with a degree in Graphic Design/Commercial Art. Jill was hired by the The St. Paul Companies, Inc., (a large personal and commercial insurance company that merged with the Travelers Insurance Company in 2004), for over 10 years. However, the position was eliminated as the company went to outsourcing its design and creative functions. So, that was a good time for Jill to open a design studio in her home. That was January 1, 2000.

 

There were other reasons that made starting her own business appealing: the kids' (four of them) were grown and out of the house; she could eliminate travel time down I-94 from her home in Clear Lake to the Twin Cities; and she could be autonomous. After all, when one works within a company, especially a large one, there is a bit of "red tape" to contend with as a creative works with her internal clients to secure approval by all of the stakeholders. Now operating from home also affords Jill the flexibility to juggle projects with personal challenges, such as assisting with her husband's disabled brother and helping her elderly mother not to mention the hand she offers with the grandchildren. Jill will tell you it was a good move for her. 

 

Another good move for Jill was to become as proficient as she could with today's desktop publishing technology. She's very comfortable to be working on her Mac in the downstairs studio of her rural Clear Lake home, on the banks of the Elk River. She works in Adobe Illustrator, In-Design, Photoshop, and various layout software programs.  Also, she's very experienced with talking and working with printing professionals. This includes transferring of digital project files via the Internet and CyberDuck™ to their FTP (file transfer protocol) sites. Clients can count on her technical skill-set. 

 

I've been very impressed with the technical skills, creative fine-art skills, and interpersonal skills Jill displays in our work together. We've collaborated on brochures and on a big newsletter project for Benton County. Always, Jill designs professional, up-to-date designs for the clients, easily plugs in my copy, quickly puts the projects together, and in knowledgeably deals with the printing companies. Thus, in my mind, the word "artist" and "creativity" are synonymous.

WORD FOR THE DAY "confound" (v.) "1. to perplex or amaze ...; bewilder; confuse; 2. to throw into confusion or disorder; 3. to throw into increased confusion or disorder; 4. to treat or regard erroneously as identical; 5. to mingle so that the elements cannot be distinguished or separated. 6. to damn, used in mild imprecations: Confound it! Obsolete: to spend uselessly; waste. Syn. "flabbergast, embarrass, astonish, perplex." (dictionary dot com)

 

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Words that confound: collective nouns

 

Correct English can confound. For example, the following words are collective nouns, referring to a collection of related things (people, animals, things) that can't be counted. Often they confound business people who use them in emails, memos, letters, and even presentations or speeches. Usually the authors of the communication are not even aware they've used their words incorrectly. (Maybe the reader isn't aware, either, which is a good thing.) Yet, it is important to remember how to use collective nouns correctly, just in case your reader IS aware of proper English and would lose some amount of respect for you if the words were misused.

 

Nevertheless, what gets tricky for us is remembering this rule AND applying it in this global business world. No surprise, American and British English differ in how they view collective nouns. In American English, collective nouns are always singular, and so are their pronouns. In British English, they’re usually plural.

 

So, here are some common collective nouns: PEOPLE – army, band, class, committee, company, staff, team; ANIMALS – flock, gaggle, herd, pack, school, swarm; THINGS – bunch, clump, pair, set, stack, etc.

 

AND, here are some examples to remember, especially with regard to PEOPLE in the business environment:

   1. The committee has drafted a plan it believes in. Am. The committee have drafted a plan they believe in. Br.

   2. The company has issued a press release. Am. The company have issued a press release. Br.

   3. The staff is done for the day, so it can go. Am. The staff are done for the day, so they can go. Br.

   4. The data speaks for itself. Am. These data speak for themselves. Br. ("Datum" is actually the singular form of "data," but we Americans no longer use that Latin word. "Data" for us is singular. See an interesting discussion at English Spark )

Now we all know it's difficult to keep grammar rules top-of-mind in our business communication. Collective nouns are often VERY CONFOUNDING. Yet, when we spot a collective noun, it should alert us that there might be a grammar trap lurking in the words. Pick up your trusty grammar reference book, and do a double-check. It could keep your reader from doing a double-take as he or she reads your email.

 

Sources:

http://www.englishspark.com/en/students/356-is-data-singular-or-plural “data”

http://english.stackexchange.com/questions/3288/is-staff-plural “staff”

http://www.learnenglish.de/grammar/nouncollective.htm “committee”

 

WORD FOR THE DAY “simple” (adj.), (n.) “1. easy to understand, deal with, use, etc; 2. not elaborate or artificial; plain; 3. not ornate or luxurious; unadorned; 4. unaffected; unassuming; modest; 5. not complicated.” Syn. “child’s play, easy as pie, effortless, manageable, no sweat, straightforward, uncomplicated. Related word, “simplify” (v.) “to make less complex or complicated; make plainer or easier:” Related word, “simplicity” (n.) “the state, quality, or an instance of being simple.”

 

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“Simple” is magic word for wedding venue

 

Wedding planning can be complex. Quite often, it begins a year (or more, if possible) ahead of the event with the booking of the wedding venue. Dave Peterson and his wife Dr. Julie Nyland (Medical Arts Dental) have a beautiful place, just west of Crosslake, Minn., that they’ve remodeled with a north woods cabin feel and designed as a complete wedding weekend venue. (They visited with me about it at the Wedding Expo in St. Cloud In January.) Dave uses magical words like “simple,” “simplify,” and “simplicity” in any conversation about Pine Peaks Retreat & Event Center.

            The point he was making about this being an EASY event venue was not lost on me …

            I remember my daughter, Jeanette’s, wedding. (Remember, I'm a writer-for-hire, not a wedding planner!) It began at one church, moved to another church’s reception hall, and ended in the backyard of the mother-in-law’s home for more food and live music from my son-in-law’s band. It was A GREAT TIME, but it involved moving decorations for my husband and me, and it was a bit confusing for the guests, some of whom actually GOT LOST in the shuffle.

            There’s no shuffle at Pine Peaks, although, there is a shuttle to the nearby Pine Peaks Lodge and Suites. Pine Peaks Retreat & Event Center is located two hours north of St. Cloud (up Highway 10, northeast on 210 from Brainerd and then, north on 6), on the Whitefish chain of lakes, with Crosslake being the nearest body of water to the resort. The 5-acre venue sits on 80 acres of a former dairy farm, which had been in the Peterson family for four generations.

            The venue can be a completely self-contained community the weekend of any family’s celebration. Its simpler way of housing everyone is apparent. The center will seat 250 to 300 guests and around 200 for the outdoor settings. An attached pavilion can handle 30 people for the groom’s dinner. The retreat house can sleep up to 20, which could accommodate the bride’s entourage and then, serve as the honeymoon nest for the newlyweds. Guest can also stay at the Pine Peaks Lodge and Suites, six miles down the road, (with a shuttle, remember). There’s also parking there for RV’s/trailers. Dave and Julie don’t own the lodge and restaurant; they’ve have made arrangements with the owners to make Pine Peaks a complete wedding venue.

            And, if you’re Lutheran, you can even use the community church, half a mile away.

            Of course, there are also two outdoor wedding ceremony “stages” on the property, featuring a lovely backdrop of pines.

            However, I’m very intrigued with the Italian wood-burning pizza oven in the center and Maucieri’s Italian Bistro, Bar & Deli in Crosslake. Maucieri’s Catering is also available for the wedding reception. This is a great way to simplify the food plans, and I hear the food is absolutely delicious (Dave and Julie might be a bit prejudiced, though.) I’ll have to check it out myself, on my way up to Grand Rapids. (GR is often my destination in the summer because of the family property on Pokegama Lake.)

            Pine Peaks Retreat & Event Center would make a great destination for anyone’s wedding (maybe, for a wedding anniversary celebration, too). Dave encourages wedding planners to simplify the task by choosing Pine Peaks as the wedding venue. Why? The design and flexibility of the buildings and spaces make the planning simpler, and everyone attending will appreciate the simplicity of execution in the self-contained resort environment "Up North."

WORD FOR THE DAY "akimbo" (adj.) "with hand on hip and elbow extended outward." (dictionary dot com) Example: She stood in a huff, with her arms akimbo. Origin: Old Norse 1375-1425 "bent into a crook" and "accusative of."

 

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Word search for “akimbo” finds characters

Language sparks the imagination. Take the word “akimbo,” which is this writer’s “Word for the Day” item. I had only heard the word used in one way, as in, “She stood with her arms akimbo.” However, after doing a search, beyond my dictionary.com guardian, I’ve discovered that many people have moved beyond the definition and into creation.

 

The creative insight of “Papa Redcloud” was my introduction into the possibilities of using a word like “akimbo.” Up popped the website www.lanceandeskimo.com/guest/akimbo.shtml , and I read “Papa’s” words, “A subject never comes up in oral discourse that would require its (akimbo’s) use.” I’d agree. I’ve never said it, and I’ve never heard it in conversation. I HAVE read it, but always in the context of “arms akimbo.” Papa notes, too, that this adjective is applied specifically to the arms, hence the definition, “with hands on hips and elbows extended.” His opinion also covers the gender of the arms – female – since rarely, if ever, do people talk about a guy’s hips. “It’s a ‘girl thing,’ this ‘akimbo,’” says Papa, the blogger. It’s also a “standing thing.” Attitudinal. Hard to flash attitude when you’re sitting down. So, in Papa’s mind, there’s only one way the word “akimbo” can be used – by a standing female giving someone else the business.

 

Au contraire. I happened upon another way the word “akimbo” is used – “Limbs Akimbo.” That is the name of the album and title song by the band Hot Buttered Rum. Check their site at http://www.hotbutteredrum.net/index.php/music/limbs-akimbo and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/hotbutteredrum. The five musicians, hailing from San Fran, are accomplished and describe their sound as “Americana, folk, and bluegrass.” The song “Limbs Akimbo” is mellow, reggae, and with a calypso beat. (Of course, I’m not a true musician; so, I’d suggest you have a listen to the sample on their site.) Coming from a folk singing background, I like their sound, harmonies, and they’re articulate.

 

Now, for a study in contrast, listen to the Seattle band “Akimbo” and their piece “Great White Bull” at http://www.myspace.com/akimbo. This trio is classic rock, hardcore, and punk. The sound is very hard driving, heavily amped, and the words are largely inarticulate. Of course, words don’t matter so much with this genre, since it’s mostly the experience and decibel level that are important. Listening, I can imagine a great white bull tearing up the concert venue, tossing tattoo-ed rockers over its head, stomping tables to toothpicks, and angrily lapping brew from a few mangled spigots.

 

Now imagine that great white bull’s name is … you guessed it, “Akimbo.” He hails from just north of Avon in Central Minnesota, and he is a poser. (Can you picture “hooves akimbo”?) Akimbo likes to play Air Guitar because he has no other innate talents other than a loud snort and the ability to get friendly with the gals. Often, you can find him striking a pose at First Ave. Akimbo usually dances by himself because the vegetarians in the room won’t be caught dead touching a side of beef. This bovine doesn’t have tattoos, but he does have a big brand “X” on his back flank. As I mentioned previously, he likes his Bud, but has trouble finding a designated driver because it’s not yet State Fair time. So, he’s got to watch his behavior when he’s out kickin’ up his heels. No china shops. No laughing cows. But, for all of his faults, the crowds do seem to like Akimbo. He’s got a thick hide and doesn’t rile that easily (unless you’re wearing red). And, if the show’s good, Akimbo may demonstrate his appreciation by packing up and hauling the equipment to the band bus. Yep. He can be a good ol' Joe, that Akimbo.

 

Well, enough about "akimbo." Send me your findings and ideas, and we’ll keep this thing going …

 

 

WORD FOR THE DAY – “champion” (n.) “1. a person who has defeated all opponents in a competition…so as to hold first place; 2. anything that takes first place in competition; 3. an animal that has won a certain number of points in officially recognized shows; 4. a person who fights for or defends any person or cause; 5. a fighter or warrior.”

 

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Mary Dingmann champion of Alphay wellness philosophy

Wheaties® is supposed to be “the breakfast of champions.”® Well, I have no idea how Mary Dingmann breaks her nighttime fast. (I’m certain she eats something healthy!) However, I do know her as a “champion.” Why? As a health and wellness proponent, she is a joyful advocate of human potential and the Alphay philosophy of balance.

 

“The world needs coaches,” Mary said to me the other day. “The world talks us into living in a box. But, the instructions for living are written on the outside of that box.” That’s how Mary wants all of us to live, outside of a box, whatever our self-imposed prison or self-fulfilling vision. “I want to give people the gift of hope,” she said, plus joy, passion for what they do, and inspiration to live happy, healthy, balanced and fulfilled lives.

 

Over this past year, Mary’s own life has taken a turn. She read Alphay Chairman Hui Chen’s book, The Five Elements of Success, and went to China to investigate the operation. “I read that book, and I knew this was how I was going to spend my life,” said Mary, who wants to point to a map of the world someday and say, “This is where I work.” She met Chairman Chen, and decided to leave her Nikken wellness business behind to promote Alphay. Alphay is one of China’s leading health biotechnology companies and a leader in independent network marketing. Now, as one of four founding members for Alphay and a Key Master leader, her task is to introduce Chairman Hui Chen and Alphay to America and grow a network of independent member-partners.

 

Chairman Chen will make his first visit to the U.S. on February 18 through February 19 at the Hotel Sofitel Minneapolis in Bloomington. Saturday will be devoted to discovering what Alphay is about and hearing an address from Chairman Chen. For anyone interested in attending, Sunday offers a complimentary workshop on the 5 Elements, ancient 6,000-year-old principles for relationships, and balanced wellness. Pre-registration is required, so contact Mary at 320.493.4266 for details.

 

No doubt, the Chairman will probably share details of how his father raised medicinal mushrooms and how, in his father’s footsteps, Chen grew the business to become the world’s largest producer of medicinal mushrooms. Mushrooms are very good for the immune system, Mary explained. She also noted that people are sick of being sick, tired, and broke. Alphay is a viable holistic health and wellness industry, she championed. Mary is looking for leaders to educate people about network marketing and the Alphay philosophy, which is based on Eastern principals of balance between the elements of wood, water, metal, earth, and fire. Thus far, Mary is grateful to have seven doctors of chiropractic and two medical doctors to join her team without Alphay having been officially launched in North America.

 

Ever the champion of health and human potential, Mary feels it is “my obligation to inspire people to look within and ask themselves ‘Am I using the talents I’ve been given?’” In Alphay, she hopes people will find a way to live a balanced life, “Powered by Heart.™”

 

So, the next time you’re musing about LIFE over your morning bowl of Wheaties® or whatever, maybe you want to take to heart Mary’s wishes for you. As your champion, she could tell you a few things about a healthy lifestyle, about balance, and about Alphay.

 

 

WORD FOR THE DAY – “pettifogger” [pet-ee-fog, -fawg] also [pet’ ee fog r]  (n.) “a person pretending to be something else; imposter.” Also “a petty, shifty, and often dishonest lawyer.” (Random House) Also “a shyster lawyer.” (theFreeDictionary.com) “pettifog” (v.) “1. to bicker or quibble over trifles or unimportant matters; 2. to carry on a petty, shifty, or unethical law business; 3. to practice chicanery of any sort.” (dictionary.com) Syn. “cheat, chisler, imposter, shyster, scammer, etc.”

 

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Pettifogger. Apply the word to roofing shysters.

 

Here’s a word you don’t hear too often, if ever: pettifogger. Most of us would use the word “shyster,” instead. Shawn Brannon makes that reference with contempt. Some roofing companies are shysters, he said to me, during our recent interview. He made it clear that All Elements, Inc., a Monticello commercial and residential roofing company, is a company he’s proud to represent because the family-owned enterprise can be trusted.

Now, I trust what Shawn has to say because I’ve known him through the River City Business Network International group we both belong to. However, his response to a question I asked him is, maybe, more telling. I asked Shawn what he loves most about the business. Without a pause, he answered that he was happiest when he kept folks from having sleepless nights of worry over the condition of their home or building. He understood that having a good, solid roof overhead meant a healthier environment for the inhabitants – no contamination of the food prepared in the building and no compromised quality of the air they breathed.

 

(Shawn and “the guys” can smell a bad roof. In fact, they must wear protective clothing and masks when removing rotten foam insulation to protect themselves from the acrid vapors.)

 

Roofing companies that compromise on durable materials and skillful workmanship are pettifoggers in my estimation. (I love this word.) They don’t remove rot; they camouflage it. They leave leaks around vents and skylights. They can’t hammer a nail flush and are too lazy to blind nail. They take your money up front, complete half the project, and then, disappear to the end of a telephone line that rings and rings, but is never answered. Shysters. Scammers. Fly-by-nights. Pettifoggers. Companies like this have no shame and no pride in their work. (I can imagine Shawn shaking his head in agreement.) They are imposters, not true roofers.

 

True roofers have standards, like those of All Elements, Inc., from what I understand. The Better Business Bureau’s given them a “thumbs up.” They’re a member of the National Roofing Contractors Association and follow its standards. All Elements is a GAF-Certified Installer. (GAF is “the largest manufacturer of commercial and residential roofing.”) Finally, the company is a winner, for the seventh straight year, of the Duro-Last® “Elite Contractor Award.” This recognition designates All Elements as a “Master Contractor.”

 

For roofing contractors, this is HUGE. Duro-Last® is a manufacturer of roofing systems (“the right white roof,” notes Shawn) for flat or low-sloped roofs. All Elements must roof a minimum of 100,000 square feet in Duro-Last® and pass a strict inspection to qualify for the award and for the homeowner’s warranty to be honored.

 

So take note, homeowners and business owners. Remember All Elements, Shawn Brannon, and this writer’s word-for-the-day. You don’t want to be taken in by a roofing pettifogger (shyster). Do your research, talk to Shawn Brannon, and check out All Element, Inc.’s website at http://www.allelementsinc.net  www.allelementsinc.net.

 

________

WORD FOR THE DAY "erratum" (n.) (pl.) - ta. "an error in writing or printing." (Random House Dictionary) Example: "An email erratum makes the wrong impression in business communication."

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Erase email errata (errors)

How often have you received an quick email or short memo with these common errors? Or, have you made an erratum yourself?  Obviously, grammar or spelling mistake can hamper clear communication, but it can also produce a negative impression of you in the mind of the email recipient. ("Doesn't he/she know any better?") Here are some reminders about correct usage and examples of common errata:

 

   1. It is a pronoun. To make it possessive, add an “s,” for its. However, it’s is a contraction, a combination of the words “it is.” Thus, the word becomes it’s. Example: “It’s too late for its copying and distribution to be scheduled.”

 

   2. Your is a possessive pronoun. A conjunction of “your” and “are”  is “you’re.” Example: “Your time sheet is on file, so, you’re all set for next week’s paycheck.”

 

   3. Lets is a verb, as in “She lets me make decisions.” Let’s is a conjunction of “let” and “us.” Example: “Let’s find out why Mike lets Susan make all the decisions.”

 

   4. Then is an adverb, dealing with time. Than is a conjunction. Example: “After you discover why the specifications are different than we discussed, then give me a call.”

 

   5. All ready means to be prepared. Already is an adverb, meaning “by this or that time; previously; or now.” Example: “We are all ready to explain to you how we already have reached our quota.”

 

   6. All together is an adverb, meaning “all at the same time,” and “a group whose members acted or were acted upon collectively.” Altogether is also an adverb, meaning “wholly; entirely; completely;” and “with all or everything included;” and “with everything considered.” (dictionary.com) Example: “The staff is all together in our opinion that the budget is altogether too small for our 2012 objectives.”

 

So, let's all work to eradicate email and memo errata. Do your part, and take today's tips to heart.

 

Do you have some pet email and memo peeves? Send me an email (with no erratum), and vent with me.

WORD FOR THE DAY – “resourceful” (adj.) “able to deal skillfully and promptly with new situations, difficulties, etc." Syn. “able, capable, enterprising, ingenious, intelligent, inventive, quick-witted, sharp, talented.” (n.) “resourcefulness” (dictionary dot com)

 

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Word hardly describes MN Copy’s resourcefulness

 

Whatever it takes. Those are Mike Houghton’s words. His company, Minnesota Copy Systems, St. Cloud, will do whatever it takes to give their customers what they need, whether communications technology sales or service. In this writer's mind, “whatever it takes” means management and staff are “resourceful.”

 

Mike describes this resourcefulness as “going above-and-beyond.” (You may think the phrase somewhat clichéd, but Mike uses it as a mantra for his people.) And, don’t let that easy-going nature and calm, engaging manner fool you into thinking Mike is “just another nice guy.” (Well, he IS a nice guy!) Mike is smart in business and communications technology (copiers, printers, fax machines and networking computer systems), mindful of the company’s mission, and intent on helping customers with imagining their businesses, just as he’s imagining his own company’s success.

 

There are at least five ways Mike and “the guys” demonstrate their resourcefulness. First, his staff shines when a customer is stressed; emergency service calls are a priority for them. Second, customers deal with one company rep throughout their interaction, i.e., “a familiar face.” Minnesota Copy’s go-to person for the customer becomes a point person for its staff throughout many years of service. Third, in order to better understand customers’ needs, Mike and his staff routinely go on-location to study and get hands-on experience with their customers’ communication technology set-up. Fourth, the company is a turnkey enterprise, meaning that it’s sales and service arms complement each other to give customers a 360-degree experience. Five, training is very important – the on-going training and empowerment of staff AND the continuing education of consumers about cutting-edge communication technology, designed to help them become more successful with their own enterprises.

 

 

Yes. Mike and Minnesota Copy Systems appear very enterprising. (“Enterprising” is synonymous with “resourceful.”) Nevertheless, mine is only one perspective. To gain a better idea of what Minnesota Copy Systems is all about, check Mike's website, www.mncopy.com. (Mike is a member of River City BNI.)

 

WORD FOR THE DAY – “reflexive” (adj.) “Grammar. 1. (of a verb) taking a subject and object with identical referents, as with ‘shave,’ I shave myself. (of a pronoun) used as an object to refer to the subject of a verb, as ‘myself,’ in I shave myself; 2. “(n.) Grammar. A reflexive verb or pronoun.” (dictionary dot com) Also, “reflecting back on the subject, like a mirror.” (EnglishClub.com)

 

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A word about "myself" and other pronouns

 

( ME )

 

( MYSELF )

 

( and I )

 

 

 

 

 

 

Like fingernails. Scratching. The incorrect use of “myself,” (himself, herself, yourself, itself, and plurals, ourselves, yourselves, and themselves) makes me cringe, just as I do when fingernails are drawn slowly across a chalkboard. So, to save others from the awful grimace I make (and wrinkles I may create for myself), I’m reviewing the proper use of pronouns, including “myself” and other “selves.”

 

For example, look at the following sentences. Reflexive pronouns are always objects. Reflexives reflect back to the subject, like a mirror, and are the same as the subject.

   • I want to see it for myself. (subject = I) (verb = want) (object = myself)

   • He had to hear it for himself.

   • We cleaned up after ourselves.

   • They were ashamed of themselves.

 

Now, don’t be fooled. Even though the following pronouns mirror one another, they’re called something else (although, I’ve seen them called “reflective.”) Intensive pronouns appear next to the subject of the sentence and are used for emphasis. They can be removed without changing the meaning of the sentence. Grammatically, they are correct.

   • I myself had come to appreciate his expertise.

   • He himself had to apologize for the error.           

   • We ourselves had no clue about how to fix the problem.

 

However, there are ways pronouns, especially “myself,” are used incorrectly. That is when they’re substituted for “I” and “me,” etc. It seems compound subjects confuse many.

   • Incorrect: Nancy and myself will organize the files. Correct: Nancy and I will organize the files.

   • Incorrect: My representative or myself will be happy to call. Correct: My representative or I will be happy to call.

 

In these particular cases, the pronoun “I” is the subject of the sentence. (Test yourself: Use only one person as the subject when you read the sentences. So, you’d say, I will organize the files, and, I will be happy to call.)

 

Here are other examples where pronouns are used as compound objects:

   • Incorrect: Send an e-mail response to Jerry and myself. Correct: Send an e-mail response to Jerry and me.

   • Incorrect: Contact Sue or myself if you will attend the party. Correct: Contact Sue or me if you will attend the party.

     (Test yourself: Use only one person as the object when you read the sentences. So, you’d say, Send an e-mail response to me, and, Contact me if you will attend the party, and, She saw me about an upgrade.  

 

Did this short discussion answer a few questions about pronoun usage? It did for myself, I mean, for me. (Yikes. Fingernails, again!) Yes. Sometimes, we can all do with a pronoun review.

WORD FOR THE DAY – “cared-for” (adj.) “having needed care and attention, as in ‘well-cared-for-children.” (dictionary.com)

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Optometrist focuses on cared-for clients

 

The eyes have it. Dr. Sally Jackula’s eyes, that is.  They’re intense, intent on focusing in on her patient’s care. Dr. Sally operates Iris Vision Care in St. Cloud. She’s my eye doctor. I’m impressed with her efforts to make me – and her other patients – feel very cared-for. “Cared-for” is the descriptive word I associate with Dr. Sally.

 

Dr. Sally says that her goal of making all patients feel cared-for is her compassion for people. (I’m a believer.)

 

“I try to be at my best and give an added personal touch to the (patient) experience,” she told me at our last visit. In my case, she was extremely calm and methodical as we worked to get my prescription just right. It was a delicate process, since I have progressive lenses. As Dr. Sally told me, when you adjust the prescription for distance, it affects the bi-focal. In my case, it took us three go-rounds with the glasses manufacturer. (Yes. I presented a challenge for Dr. Sally, one that she handled with aplomb. No, I was not being difficult.)

 

It’s difficult for a busy professional writer, wife, mother, grandmother, and caretaker of an elderly parent to take care of myself. I’m sure you can relate. That’s why Dr. Sally’s attention to my care is so important.

 

Dr. Sally does all sorts of testing for eye conditions, some that I’ve never heard of: glaucoma, retinal detachment, retinitis pigmentosa, cataracts, macular degeneration (for those of us over 40), even computer vision syndrome. “Computer Vision Syndrome describes a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer use,” according to the American Optometric Association. For a complete discussion, go to the website at: http://www.aoa.org/x5253.xml

 

We discussed at length my choice of glasses frames. Some worked with my face shape; others did not. Some were better for my prescription; others had lenses that were too narrow. Dr. Sally patiently walked me through the many choices. She really cared that I would make the right choice and be pleased with my selection. In addition, I did not feel rushed by her, which further convinced me that I had her full attention.

 

Dr. Sally also paid great attention to my granddaughter, Erin, who came to see her about color blindness. The two worked through the testing, which consisted of recognizing colored numbers against a colored background. The illustrations were created from many colored circles, no straight lines. Erin is red / green color blind. However, there is such as thing as yellow / blue spectrum color blindness. Dr. Sally explained that there are actually glasses and contacts made to help patients with color-blindness. So, we learned something new during that visit.

 

Bottom line? Dr. Sally Jackula’s attention to my specific needs – prescription, testing, and frame selection –  and to my granddaughter's color-blindness, demonstrated to me her compassion for her patients and her efforts to make them feel cared-for. “Cared-for” is the word I associate with my eye doctor at Iris Vision Care. http://www.irisvisioncare.com/

(Dr. Sally Jackula is also a member of River City BNI.)

WORD FOR THE DAY "transition" (n) "1. movement, passage, or change from one position, state, stage, subject, concept, etc., to another; change: 2. Music: passing from one key to another; modulation; 3.a passage from one scene to another by sound effects, music, etc., as in a television program, theatrical production, or the like." (v) "4. to make a transition." Example"I am in transition." Also: "Use a transition or transitional technique for more effective writing." (dictionary.com)

 

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"Good transitions can connect paragraphs and turn disconnected writing into a unified whole." – Purdue Online Writing Lab

"Transition words, such as but and however have been called the 'traffic lights' of language." – The Little Red Writing Book,
by Brandon Royal.

Transitional techniques use words wisely

 

Make your writing smoother and more coherent by linking ideas on the page, and following through to a conclusion. You may use transitional words/phrases or a technique that I call “mirroring.”

No doubt, you’ve been taught the technique of using common transitional words/phrases. The four types indicate: contrast (e.g. however, yet), illustration (e.g. for example, for instance), continuation (e.g. furthermore, moreover), and conclusion (e.g. thus, finally). Knowing these words/phrases comes in pretty handy.

Another handy technique was taught by my high school writing teacher, Mrs. Matson. This I call mirroring. Pick up a word (or phrase) from the last sentence of your paragraph and repeat it in the first sentence of your new paragraph. This repetition is not a mistake, but a thoughtful device to bridge your paragraphs more subtly. 

See my examples, below:

1.

Pokegama Golf Course merits your investigation. Its wooded setting, lake view, accommodating space, imaginative cuisine, and  attentive service will impress.
     Most impressive is the panoramic design of the club house and restaurant.

2.

Think of your Last Will and Testament as a road map, with designation as the destination.
     Next, ask yourself, “When I go, who gets my stuff?”
     A Will legally disposes of your “stuff” (property) after your death, according to the particular laws of the state where you lived.

      Find more examples from the Purdue Online Writing Lab at http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/574/01/ .

Start using transitional techniques today, and you'll see an improvement in your writing effectiveness.

 

WORD FOR THE DAY – “responsive” (adj.) “responding especially readily and sympathetically to appeals, efforts, influences, etc.” Syn. “compassionate, kindhearted, passionate, sensitive, sharp, etc.”  (dictionary.com)

 

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Detailing Divas. In a word – responsive

 

“Divas” is probably a misnomer for this sister act. After all, when you think of a “Diva,” don’t you envision a prima donna entertainer or celebrity, caught up in her own importance, basking in self adulation, and making demands of others for her own comfort? Very “ME” focused. That’s not the Detailing Divas. These St. Cloud sisters – Jeanne Borgstrom and Lezlie Lang – are responsive to human need and very “OTHER” focused with their home detailing services, senior moves management, and community volunteering.

 

So, “RESPONSIVE” is a great word for the Detailing Divas. It addresses the action these sisters take on behalf of others. It is synonymous with COMPASSIONATE, which speaks to their hearts, and SHARP, which speaks to their technical expertise. The sisters grew up in a family of painters. However, Borgstrom is also a professional stager, while Lang is a color specialist, life coach, and trained in team leadership. Home sellers, real estate agents, bank trust officers, busy sons and daughters of aging parents, and downsizers of all shapes, sizes, and ages call the Detailing Divas for HELP.

 

(PHOTO: Lezlie Lang, l., Jeanne Borgstrom, r.)

 

Jeanne says the help they provide is an art, science, and a psychology. She and Lezlie are sensitive to clients anxious about someone coming into their home, evaluating its condition, touching their belongings, and finally, changing things. Lezlie notes the sisters are very compassionate, allowing clients to work out any negativity, such as embarrassment over the condition of their homes.

 

(I can relate. Even when I schedule a cleaning lady, I have to clean up before she gets here! Yes. I must confess that I'm a better writer than housekeeper!.)

 

Here’s another example of responsiveness to those of us in the “sandwich generation” – caring for children and aging parents. The Detailing Divas were approached by a loving daughter who needed to help her mother move from the family home to a senior apartment with added, managed services. Her mother had physical difficulties and memory issues. Of utmost concern was her mother’s comfort level with the move and the daughter’s desire to not upset her. Yet, the daughter was also a professional person whose job didn’t allow her the complete flexibility to deal with ALL of the tasks the downsizing represented. Well, the Divas handled the entire multi-faceted project. From packing and coordinating the transfer of the mother’s belongings, to setting up her new home in a familiar layout with familiar objects, to staging the family home for a sale, the sisters took care of everything with skill and sensitivity. No worries for the daughter. No distress for her mother. Now, that’s being responsive to LIFE and the human condition.

 

The Divas are responsive to the community’s needs, too. Their professional hands guided the amateur hands of six crews of Central Minnesota Habitat for Humanity volunteer painters at the Kyle Hanson home in October. (See the January 3, 2012, St. Cloud Times/Citizen Times’s story. Divas lead Habitat paint project) They also volunteered to supervise crews at a twin home on the east side of St. Cloud. The Divas even donated equipment. This was the first time the sisters had volunteered on a Habitat home, but they plan to return. Why? Because they are KINDHEARTED and SYMPATHETIC when they see a need.

 

Well, I need to wrap this up. So, if you need help with a staging, senior move, or community project, I suggest you call the Detailing Divas at 320.420.4376. (Jeanne helped me convert bedrooms into an office for myself and for my husband, a studio. Then, I hired her to help with a daughter’s new home painting.) Thus, in a word, I find the Detailing Divas to be RESPONSIVE.

 

WORD FOR THE DAY "efficacy" (n.) "capacity for producing a desired result or effect; effectiveness." Syn. "effectiveness, performance, capability, competence, strength, efficiency." Example: Chris Vasecka improves the efficacy of clients' irrigation systems.

 

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Chris Vasecka improves efficacy of irrigation systems

Efficiency. Chris Vasecka touts that word frequently. He’s the owner of Use Your Water Right Dot Com, a Clearwater, Minnesota, irrigation company. In a word, Chris tests the efficacy of clients’ irrigation systems through a unique irrigation audit.

 

“I want to create the most efficient way to irrigate the outdoor landscape for clients,” said Chris during in interview with this writer in April, as he was readying his business for the busy summer season. He’s not changed his tune this winter. I interviewed him recently and found him to be just as passionate about his work.

 

Currently, Chris is recommending a sit-down with individual homeowners or representatives of homeowners’ associations, even maintenance managers for commercial businesses, including hotels and care centers. He’ll show them how to save money on their water bills, taking a look at their bills for the past five years. Also, he’ll introduce them to a tool unique to his business – the Full Irrigation Audit.

 

His audit is the product of eight years of development. (Understandably, Chris is pretty proud of it.) The Full Irrigation Audit uses four steps to ascertain the character of the lawn and the opportunities for improvement. Chris begins with soil analysis – loam, clay, sand-based? Each type of soil affects the life cycle of roots. Next, he notes the ratio of sun to shade across the lawn. Geographical location is another consideration. Chris uses a 50-year span of historical data for this step. Finally, he creates a User Profile and report. With all of this information, Chris is able to make a very educated recommendation to the client and set up a 5-Year Plan.

 

How he approaches each client’s individual needs for his or her lawn is very scientific, thoughtful, and purposeful. Sometimes, he might recommend a whole system, and for another, the client may simply need to replace a few sprinkler nozzles. You never know.

 

However, ask Chris Vasecka; he knows how to set up an irrigation system with efficacy (efficiency) in mind. Visit his website at www.useyourwaterright.com. (Chris is a member of River City BNI.)

 

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WORD FOR THE DAY “symbiosis” (n.) “any interdependent or mutually beneficial relationship between two persons, groups, etc." (dictionary dot com)

 

Eric O'Brien's word is "symbiosis"

He was candid.  I’m a business partner, investing in your business, said Eric O’Brien, Commercial and SBA Lender at Falcon National Bank, when this writer met with him the other day for an interview at Caribou Coffee. His reference to “partnering” with clients reminded me of the word “symbiosis.” The word applies in many ways to Eric and Falcon National Bank.

 

A banker and a business should have a symbiotic relationship, especially in today’s economy. Eric has been working on these types of banking relationships for over 11 years. He was, understandably, emphatic about the way he and Falcon now work together to create this symbiosis. Eric was hired by the bank this June.

 

Eric continued to share with me his passion for the work he does at Falcon. “My loan, my responsibility” is how he put it to me, in a very genial and straightforward manner. He shared his commitment to each customer that sits down at the desk with him, shares his or her story, listens to his advice, and explores the benefits, and potential risk, of products and services the bank has to offer. Eric quoted the bank’s tag line, “Service that soars above the rest.” He was serious about his promise to personally work with a client throughout every facet of the loan process. Eric’s honesty and conscientiousness were front-and-center in our conversation. I’m not surprised. He’s a St. John’s University graduate. (Having married a “Johnny,” I’m impressed with the caliber of character these graduates display.)

 

CEO John Herges and staff members Jason Iverson (Chief Credit Officer) and Jessica Bitz (Senior Lender) had made a good impression on Eric when he’d crossed paths with them during his career. Also, Eric had grown up in the Avon/St. Cloud area. These were the main reasons he joined Falcon National Bank.

 

Eric and his wife Jen live in Monticello, so, Eric commutes everyday. Yet, he’s settling in nicely with the St. Cloud business community. In fact, he’s a member of my Business Network International group in Waite Park – “Rockin’” River City BNI. Why’d he join? Well, he joined to create a symbiotic relationship with other business owners and their representatives, of course!

 

As we spoke, Eric reminded me of the amount of community involvement the bank undertakes, largely, through the activity of Marketing Director Josh Nelson (currently, Habitat for Humanity Board President) and the various events the bank sponsors. He’s happy to be part of an organization that continues to create symbiosis with the greater St. Cloud and Central Minnesota community.

 

So, I think Eric O’Brien and his employer, Falcon National Bank are in symbiosis, with each other and those they serve in the greater St. Cloud community. I enjoyed my interview and conversation with Eric. You may want to get into symbiosis with Eric as well via a loan, an account, merchant services, or simply over a coffee at Caribou.

WORD FOR THE DAY "important" (adj.) "1. of much or great significance or consequence; 2. mattering much; 3. entitled to more than ordinary consideration or notice; 4. prominent or large." (dictionary dot com)

 

Important words need a writer.

Words are important. A single word identifies an object, person, feeling, a place. Strung together, words convey simple ideas like “I’m tired.” Or, they can ask something more abstract, such as “Where does the sun go at night?”  They can explain a concept. “The earth rotates on an axis, causing parts of the planet to face the sun during the day, while others are in the shade at nighttime.” Words can even wax poetic. “Hark. What light through yonder window breaks?  It is the East, and Juliet is the Sun.”  Organizations should understand the importance of words and give them the attention of a professional writer.

If what you have to say is worth saying, it’s worth hiring a professional writer to say it in the best manner possible. The words must be memorable and effective. OK. You may know, more or less, what you want to say. However, the page remains blank. The message is jumbled and confused. Perhaps, the words are adequate but lack dynamics or conviction. The worst case scenario? Your efforts have cost you in time, money, and anxiety, yielding poor results.

 

Messages generated by an organization serve an internal communication function, or they’re designed to meet external marketing objectives and strengthen brand awareness. A professional writer will take your ideas, apply your unique vocabulary, infuse the message with your distinctive character, and wordsmith it to educate, inform, honor, entertain, promote, sell, or touch the reader/viewer/listener with emotion.

 

You can create effective communication messages and celebrate – through written or spoken word – your unique story and vision – when you use a freelance writer-for-hire. If your writer knows his or her "stuff," content will be more:

• Clear   • Concise   • Creative  • Correct   • Customized   • Compelling

 

So, what's the "stuff" good writing is made of? First, good writing takes time to percolate. Your writer needs to interview you, take notes, and internalize your mission, culture, products, and services. A writer can't intelligently craft your message if he or she doesn't understand you. Second, good writing pays attention to the mechanical basics – grammar, punctuation, spelling, word choice, thesis, topic sentences, subject/verb construction, etc. Third, good writing follows a logical thought pattern and organizational approach to the topic. Fourth, it makes a connection with the reader/viewer/listener on some level, whether emotional or intellectual. Fifth, it differentiates your business/organization from your competitors through various branding techniques. Finally, it moves the reader/viewer/listener to action or leaves a vivid impression in the mind.

It's smart to hire a writer, even when you’re comfortable with words. Some projects need a fresh new perspective or an extra pair of eyes. We businessmen and women have to care about the words we use in ads, articles, blogs, direct mail, newsletters, press releases, radio spots, speeches, and websites. People are expecting us to get RESULTS … build more audience, sell more stuff, secure more donations.

 

What does it cost to have a grammatical error on your direct mail letter?  to run  radio or print ads with no clear calls to action? to display a profile on social media that's riddled with bad spelling? to distribute a weak press release? to leave web copy to the graphic designer? It costs a business in credibility, effectiveness, marketing and advertising dollars, and CUSTOMERS.

Words are important.  If what you have to say is worth saying, hire a professional writer to help you and your words.

© mary macdonell belisle – writerforhire
 

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WORD FOR THE DAY “practice” (n.) 1. “habitual or customary performance; operation; 2. habit; custom; 3. repeated performance or systematic exercise for the purpose of acquiring skill or proficiency;” (v.) 1. to exercise oneself by repeated performance in order to acquire skill; 2. to do something habitually or as a practice.” (dictionary dot com)

 

10 writing practices improve your press release 

 

Toot your horn. Get your important information out to the print and electronic media via a press release. A press release can raise awareness of your name and brand, position you as a leader in your industry, and also put a “face” to what could otherwise come across as an impersonal business entity. However, it’s important that you do it right. Steve Waganer, an SEO specialist who works for Comet Search Engine Marketing, notes, “It is not enough just to write press releases and publish them on the web; you must know the correct way of writing a press release to be noticed on the web.”1. Here are eight prompts to improve your press release.

 

1. Make it newsworthy. Is your release actually advertising-in-disguise, or is there meat on the bone? Publicize a worthy cause, and describe how your company participated in it through volunteer activity or a sponsorship. Expand on the results of a survey your company recently conducted. Or, take some new national data relevant to your business, and give it your company spin. This comes in handy if you’ve added a new service, and your release sounds like advertising. For example, a dentist may have added sedation dentistry to its services. Can the information be tied into an article on odontophobia, fear of dentists, and some just-published statistics about the number of nationwide sufferers? (See http://www.medicalartsdental.com/, click "Press Release")

 

2. Be specific and creative with your headline. Remember, there are plenty of other businesses vying for editors’ and readers’ attention. A data-specific example would be, “ABC Transport hiring 250 temporary technicians this July.” It is stronger than “ABC Transport hiring.” Can it be more creative? How about, “ABC Transport trumpets July hire of 250 temporary technicians.” You can use devices such as alliteration (in this case, the repetition of the “t” words) and even rhyme to call attention to your headline. How about “Outsourcing Resource in HR is Super” to publicize a new company called “Super Consulting Services, LLC”? (See the release at: http://www.wordingforyou.com/Blog/WORD-FOR-THE-DAY--/Outsourcing-Good-word-Good-practice/)

 

3. Put contact information at the top of the release.  Name, title, phone number, email address, and website address are necessary so an editor or reporter can interview you for more information.

 

4. Make the first sentence of your release memorable. Describe the news first, and then, tell who announced it. Weak: “John Smith announced today the merger of ABC Transport with XYZ.” How about “The merger is on. No one is happier than ABC Transport’s CEO John Smith, unless it’s XYZ founder Don White.” Remember, the editor will take your information and rewrite it, or a reader will forward your story to his/her network. Your job is to write an interesting piece.

 

5. Don’t editorialize with adjectives and embellishments. This includes words such as “great,” “quality,” “unsurpassed,” “notable,” and the like. Remember, the news requires facts. “Specifics sell,” just as they do with advertising. Let your specifics convince the editor that your piece is relevant to readers.

 

6. Insert key words and links into your release. “Inserting key terms back-linked to pages on your Web site can not only trigger an action from the reader – such as visiting the site to learn more or purchasing or scheduling a service – it also helps build the SEO power needed to ensure that your Web site and online pages have prominence in online search results,” says Eric Richard of Startup Nation, a free Internet entrepreneurial site, located at http://www.startupnation.com.2.

 

7. Use correct spelling, punctuation, and grammar. An error implies all sorts of bad things about you, including ignorance, laziness, and lack of motivation. You should have resources on hand – a dictionary, “Elements of Style,” and an extra pair of eyes to proof your work. Remember, your words leave an impression about you and your company.

 

8. Write and send your release to the appropriate person. Send staff additions, promotions, awards, and “moving or expanding” stories to the Business News Editor. Releases can be sent to a reporter responsible for a topic area, e.g., Education, Religion, Food, Health, Recreation, Sports, etc.

 

9. Distribute it to your social media network also. Post to your website home page, and send it to LinkedIn, Facebook, and FourSquare accounts. Share your release with bloggers in your industry. Send it to an article distribution service. What’s new today as opposed to “yesterday” is that people on the Internet might actually be searching for the information contained in your press release.

 

10. Hire a professional writer. You may subscribe to a release service or a PR company. You certainly can designate an employee in-house to handle your public relations and Web activity. Or, you can outsource your writing to a professional writer-for-hire.

 

So, if you’ve decided to be more proactive about publishing press releases, way to go. Use these recommendations for your next release, and you should see an improvement and, with luck, generate some response.

 

Sources:

1. “What is the Importance of a Press Release?” by Steve Waganer, Comet Search Engine Marketing, © 2006, < http://www.cometsearchenginemarketing.com/what_is_the_importance_of_press_release.html >

 

2. “Modern PR Tactics: Blending The Old & The New,” by Eric Richard, StartUp Nation, © 2011 < http://www.startupnation.com/business-articles/9715/1/modern-pr-tactics-blending-old-new-htm >

 

 

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WORD FOR THE DAY – “blanket” (noun) “1. A large, rectangular piece of soft fabric, often with bound edges, used especially for warmth as a bed covering. 2. The chief garment traditionally worn by some American Indians. 3. Any extended covering or layer, e.g. a blanket of snow. Synonym. Bedding, cover. (verb) “1. to cover with or as with a blanket; 2. To obscure or obstruct; interfere with; overpower; 3. to toss (someone) in a blanket, as in fraternity hazing: Synonym. Cloud, conceal, mask. (adjective) “covering, or intended to cover, a large group or class of things, conditions, situations, as in: a blanket proposal, a blanket indictment. Synonym. Absolute, sweeping, wide-ranging. Idiom: born on the wrong side of the blanket, born out of wedlock” (dictionary dot com)

 

Point blanket makes blanket statement

A simple blanket can transport the human spirit, covering years of a family legacy.

 

When I picked up that Hudson’s Bay Company point blanket at Gypsy Lea’s in Sauk Rapids today, my breath caught, suspended between the moment and decades past. The sale was sure. “HBC” is woven into the plaid of my family’s story as surely as the threads of our tartan. I had to have that blanket. (“Gypsy” Lea was happy to oblige.)

 

Hudson’s Bay Company 100% wool point blankets were first traded for beaver pelts with the native population of Canada around 1780.1. (The term "point" comes from the French word empointer, which means "to make threaded stitches on cloth.")2. Many Canadian and American First Nations’ people used Hudson’s Bay Company blankets as wraps and as clothing.3. (Link below for a listing of tribes.) French and Scottish voyageurs and traders continued their trade with native people from HBC company outposts throughout the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries.4.

 

Our family tree sprang from those seeds planted by Ontario Scots and le Francais from Quebec. The MacDonells and MacDonalds of Glengerry County, Ontario, emigrated to Minnesota in the late 1800’s. Then, they moved on to Duluth. Around the same time, the St. Germains and Jolecoeurs emigrated from Three Rivers and Montreal to the Port City. In 1920 my grandfather, Randolph MacDonell, married Loretto St. Germain, the girl next door.

 

Grandpa MacDonell used his Hudson’s Bay blanket at the cabin. The redwood log cabin was built in 1927 on Pokegama Lake, just five miles from the Grand Rapids city limits. Grandpa died in 1969; the blanket is also gone. The cabin is now the great room of my sister Margaret Ann Armstrong’s summer home, which looks across Poole’s Bay to the inlet and onward to the Mississippi River’s thoroughfare.

 

This summer home sits on the site of yet another, older cabin. Its wooden foundation has long since crumbled to dust. (During the summers as kids we’d try to excavate the area to find artifacts, with no luck.) We wondered who lived there before us. Perhaps, it was the Metis Joseph Sayes and his wife whose names appear first on the Abstract of Title. Sayes was given 1,000 acres of land as part of the Chippawa Scrip of 1858. My grandfather’s tract, purchased decades later, was only a small part of that treaty with the first people of the area.

 

However, we’re sure there was trade conducted on that spot. My father retrieved a rusted bucket from the clay muck of the lake one summer, thinking it could be valuable. After cleaning the brass, the initials “HBC” could be read on the inside lip of the old artifact. Yep. Hudson’s Bay Company goods had been traded along the banks of Pokegama, long before it became MacDonell and Armstrong land.

 

(Oh, to be a time traveler, to go back and see what came beforehand …)

 

Gypsy Lea’s is filled with all sort of furnishings and accessories from the past, refurbished and offered up to today’s “time travelers.” Folks who buy will be able to add their own memories to the story of their precious antique objects, and so, continue the human legacy through their stories.

 

I wonder what stories my Hudson Bay point blanket will share with those who come after me.

 

Sources:

1. Hudson’s Bay Company website, http://www2.hbc.com/hbcheritage/history/blanket/history/

2. CBC Digital Archives, http://archives.cbc.ca/economy_business/consumer_goods/clips/16966/

3. Wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indigenous_peoples_of_the_Northeastern_Woodlands

4. Wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hudson%27s_Bay_Company

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WORD FOR THE DAY “outsourcing” (v.) “1. (of a company or organization) to purchase (goods) or subcontract (services) from an outside supplier or source; 2. to contract out (jobs, services, etc.); 3. to obtain goods or services from an outside source.” The word can also be a noun. (dictionary dot com)

 

“Outsourcing.” Good word. Good practice.

 

“Outsourcing” is a recently coined word. I just discovered that this word, addressing the practice of contracting services from an outside source, was first used in modern times around 1975 to ’80. Etymologists know better about word origins, so, I’ll take their word for it. However, I’m certain the practice has been around since Khufu had the local wheelwright align his chariot wheels.
 

Today I think small businesses are very familiar with the word and its meaning. They outsource (subcontract) all sorts of things – accounting and payroll, IT functions, e-commerce, and off-site file storage, corporate compliance requirements, graphic design services, even writing (ahem!) services. Kent Gustafson, of Safe Shield, and Ron Marotte, of Marotte Design, have contracted Human Resources projects, like those supplied by Michelle Super, Super Consulting Services, Inc. I like to say that the “new outsourcing resource for HR is SUPER.” (Michelle’s name is so perfect to use in this manner.)

“No longer regarded as a temporary back-fill for open staffing positions or one-off projects, outsourcing to freelancers and consultants has now become a regular practice among small and large businesses alike,” says Caron Beesley, Small Business Administration contributor, in her blog, “Outsourcing to Freelancers & Consultants: 5 Tips for Getting it Right (and Lawful).”1.

 

According to a 2003 survey by the society for Human Resource Management, 53% of HR professionals used an outside HR consultant to supply services. By 2004, it was 58%. Reasons ranged from saving the company money, to improving compliance and accuracy, to a lack of in-house experience. (See "Outsourcing: A Strategic Solution,” Susan M Heathfield’s blog.)2.

 

Small businesses outsource their HR for similar reasons, especially to save time and money, says Michelle on her website: www.hrsolutionsmn.com. In addition, Michelle’s goal is to help small businesses concentrate on their operation and specialization, instead of getting bogged down with HR duties they find “tedious, incomprehensible, and stress-inducing.”

 

But, you don’t have to take Michelle’s or my word for it. Check out “Human Resource Outsourcing: How winning small businesses think big and save smart,” part of the MBA Tool Box from THINKING LEADERS’ editor Joshua Cook.3. Or, ask your colleagues in business IF and WHAT services they outsource.

 

“Outsourcing” has become a familiar word in today’s business world. Ask Michelle Super, of Super Consulting Services, LLC, what she thinks about it.

 

Psst. While you’re at it, ask a wordsmith as well.

1.  < http://community.sba.gov/community/blogs/community-blogs/small-business-matters/outsourcing-freelancers-consultants-5-tips-getting-it-right-and-lawful >

2. < http://humanresources.about.com/cs/strategichr/a/outsourcing.htm >

3. < http://www.thinkingleaders.com/archives/524 >

           

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WORD FOR THE DAY "gaga" (adj.) "1. Excessively and foolishly enthusiastic; 2. ardently fond; infatuated; 3. demented; crazy; dotty." (dictionary.com) 

 

Gaga's "old fool" inappropriate as Alzheimer's label

 

Alzheimer’s disease is top-of-mind these days. After all, it is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. Many people are preparing for various walks around Central Minnesota. The walks, sponsored by the Alzheimer's Association, raise awareness and funds, and educate people about the appropriate response to Alzheimer's dementia. We've come far since those days of labeling Alzheimer's sufferers as "old fools" or speaking of their condition as "going gaga."

 

Do you know that for thousands of years the symptoms of this type of dementia were lumped into the category we now call "senility," a synonym meaning, "deterioration of physical strength or mental functioning, especially short-term memory and alertness as a result of old age"? Forgetfulness and memory loss, language difficulty, irritability, aggression, combativeness, and mood swings were thought to be normal aging. In fact, the origin of the word "senile" is the Latin word "sen," meaning, "old man" (Dictionary.com). Only after 1902 when German psychiatrist Alois Alzheimer identified the symptoms as disease in a 50-year-old woman was "and disease" added to the definition. Today we know that this disease in not just an "old-timer's disease," that there is something called "early-onset" dementia, which can be caused (but not always) by the disease known as "Alzheimer's."

 

These myths about the disease are busted on the Alzheimer's Association's website at www.alz.org. The site also features "10 Signs of Alzheimer's," which can help families explain "What's wrong with Dad?" and "How come Grandma doesn't know me?" and "Why is Mom acting so childish?" Do some research and check out the site.

 

It is interesting that, while I was researching the meanings and roots of various words related to the disease, I came across "doddering, doddery, gaga" as words for "senility." "Gaga" is also a synonym for "demented," and has its origin in the French "old fool." This usage is usually derogatory, in the same category as "crazy, daft, disordered, insane, mad, maniac, etc." and in the informal "daffy, loony, bonkers, cracked" and the slang "batty, buggy, cuckoo, fruity, loco, nuts, wacky, etc." (Dictionary.com).

 

However, those afflicted with dementia, including Alzheimer's, are loved ones not deserving of ridicule and mistreatment, but instead, should be given proper, patient, and very necessary care as their bodies and minds deteriorate. Elder and Alzheimer's - dementia care expert Erin Bonitto of Gemini Consulting in Cold Spring, notes on her website at www.gemini-consulting.org that "Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease destroy language centers and short-term memory. But the person is still in there." All the more reason why it's important that there is an Alzheimer's Association and that it encourages people whom have been touched by the disease to raise awareness and funding for research and education.

So, "walk on" this weekend girls and guys, knowing that the steps you take are part of a longer journey on a historical continuum to the final elimination of this wicked disease and to a greater recognition that sufferers are not "old fools" that have gone "gaga." They're our friends and our loved ones, deserving of our care and respect.