A Must-Read – New and Exciting Tips from the Sterling Creations Team

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Hello there, and welcome to our monthly feature of all kinds of tips. We at the business desk are pleased to bring you our monthly feature of a plethora of tips that cover a wide range of topics. All of our tips are designed to help you save time, cut down on your research, and help you get ahead. So go ahead and read on.

This week we bring you our monthly tips. It’s what we do for a living! We help you to help yourself! Enjoy!

From the business desk team at https://www.sterlingcreations.com.
Follow us on Twitter @accessibleworld


The New Look for 2024
October 2024
Welcome to our new look monthly tips where we are pleased to share a plethora of tricks and tips that are relevant to such things as technology, travel, managing your daily life, and much more.
So just come aboard, sit back, take a deep breath, and enjoy!
If you wish to contact us then please do not hesitate to write to us at info@sterlingcreations.ca and we promise to respond within 2 business days as long as technology allows us to do so.
Give us your feedback, comments, suggestions, and thoughts!
For it is only through you and with you that we are able to do this!

Table of contents –
1. From our 10 tips on technology series
2. From the pages of Donna’s travel diary
3. A bit of this and a bit of that from Donna’s did you know diary
4. From the scam watchers

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From our 10 tips on technology series

Hello everyone:
Welcome to my 10 tip series where each month I’ll be sharing 10 tips on various pieces of technology.
This would include tips on popular screen readers, office software, and browsers.
If you have any suggestions on what you would like me to share then by all means! Write to me at donnajodhan@sterlingcreations.ca.
For this month:
10 tips for learning Adobe Acrobat

Certainly! Here are ten tips to help you learn Adobe Acrobat:
1. Start with Basics: Begin by familiarizing yourself with the basic functionalities such as opening, viewing, and navigating PDF documents. Understanding the interface and layout is crucial.
2. Explore Toolbars: Acrobat has various toolbars with specific functions. Spend time exploring them to understand what each tool does and how it can assist you in editing, annotating, or organizing your PDFs.
3. Utilize Tutorials and Resources: Adobe offers extensive tutorials and resources on its website for users of all levels. Take advantage of these to learn new features or improve your skills.
4. Practice Regularly: Like any software, practice is key to mastering Adobe Acrobat. Spend regular time working with PDFs, experimenting with different tools, and trying out new features.
5. Learn Keyboard Shortcuts: Keyboard shortcuts can significantly speed up your workflow. Familiarize yourself with commonly used shortcuts to perform tasks more efficiently.
6. Explore Advanced Features: Once you’re comfortable with the basics, delve into the more advanced features such as creating forms, adding multimedia elements, or using advanced editing tools like OCR (Optical Character Recognition).
7. Customize Preferences: Acrobat allows you to customize various preferences to suit your workflow. Take the time to explore and adjust settings according to your preferences for a more personalized experience.
8. Stay Updated: Adobe frequently releases updates for Acrobat with new features and improvements. Make sure to keep your software up to date to access the latest enhancements and security patches.
9. Join Communities: Join online communities or forums where you can interact with other Acrobat users, ask questions, and share tips and tricks. Learning from others’ experiences can be incredibly valuable.
10. Experiment and Have Fun: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different tools and features. The best way to learn is often by doing, so don’t hesitate to try out new things and have fun while doing it!

To contact me please send an email to info@sterlingcreations.ca
I’m Donna J. Jodhan (sight loss coach and accessibility advisor)

_________________________

Important tips from the travel table

From the pages of Donna’s diary
Navigating buffets

This is probably one of the most interesting and challenging things for anyone with a disability and as a vision impaired person, I can tell you that if it is done correctly, navigating a buffet may not be as daunting as you may think.
Here are some of my personal tips.

* I always try to go with a friend who is comfortable with assisting me at a buffet.
* If I am unable to do so then I first ask the restaurant to have a staff member assist me.
* I do my best to attend buffets at less busy times.
* I ask my escort to describe dishes to me.
* If it is a staff member assisting me, I always tell them that I would probably need assistance to visit the buffet more than once.
* I do my best to make the staff comfortable and to always provide them with compliments along the way.
* I do my best to give helpful and positive feedback.
I hope all of this helps.

I’m Donna J. Jodhan enjoying my travels.

To learn more about me as a sight loss coach and author visit
http://www.donnajodhan.com

On your next trip you could enrich your down time with some of my audio mysteries. Take them with you wherever you go!
In the car, on the plane, on the bus or train, at the beach, anywhere!
And now you can listen to Donna’s weekly podcasts!
Ask donna – a plethora of tips from a sight loss coach along with book and product reviews!
Dining with donna – recipes and time saving tips for the kitchen!
Your mental stretch with Donna – how to recharge, renew, and get going! Save yourself from those dramas, traumas, and stress!
Visit www.donnajodhan.com/youtube
and subscribe for free
Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

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A bit of this and a bit of that from Donna’s did you know diary
Award winning sight loss coach, author and advocate

1) 2 great ways to help you avoid a urinary infection.
Drink lots of water and
Drink lots of cranberry juice
Or you can even take daily doses of cranberry pills.

2) Looking for ways to stifle closet odors?
Put some water in a bowl then add a few drops of vinegar.
Place the bowl in a corner of your closet.

3) And here is something useful to know about the term LOL as used in emails or in texts:
LOL seems to be out of date now.
It has been replaced by the term IJBOL
And this stands for I just burst out laughing

4) Looking for a way to moisturize your meat?
Rub it generously with some honey.

5) If you want your dishes to dry quickly after washing them and putting them in your dish rack then here’s how:
Rinse your dishes in warm to hot water before placing them in your dish rack.

6) How to revive your sleepiness?
If you find yourself wanting to remove sleep from you on a morning, then try this.
Splash some cool water over your face.
Wait a few seconds and voila! It works!

7) About coconut water!
If you find it looks cloudy, then better not to drink it!

8) About wi-fi connections at hotels?
They are often not very stable and reliable.
Although they are improving.
Wi-fi connections on a river boat are also improving.

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From the scam watchers

Scams can vary in popularity and type depending on the time of year, but here are three scams that often see a rise in October:
1.
Halloween-themed Scams: Scammers take advantage of Halloween festivities to trick people with fake costume sales, party invitations, or themed contests. They might create fake websites or social media posts to lure victims into providing personal information or making purchases for items that don’t exist.
2.
Holiday Shopping Scams: With the approach of the holiday season, scammers start targeting shoppers with fake deals or phony websites offering deep discounts on popular items. They use enticing offers to trick people into providing credit card information or making payments for non-existent products.
3.
Charity Scams: October is also a time when various charitable events and campaigns ramp up, especially with Breast Cancer Awareness Month and other causes. Scammers exploit this by posing as representatives of charities to solicit donations. They might use fake websites, emails, or social media profiles to deceive people into giving money to fraudulent causes.
To avoid falling victim to these scams, be cautious about where you share personal information, verify the legitimacy of online offers and organizations, and always use secure payment methods.

_________________________

Contact info:
Visit our websites at www.sterlingcreations.ca
www.donnajodhan.com
www.sterlingcreations.com

Email us at info@sterlingcreations.ca

Or call us at 416 491-7711

 

 

 

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A Bit of This and a Bit of That from Donna’s “Did You Know, Diary?” – September 2024

The initials "D. J." in large cursive script. Underneath: "Author Donna Jodhan."

September 2024 Monthly Tips
A Bit of This and a Bit of That from Donna’s “Did You Know, Diary?”
Award winning sight loss coach, author and advocate
You can contact me via email at donnajodhan@gmail.com

Practical and natural!
Welcome to my Donna’s did you know diary for this month and pleased to share the following with you.

Here’s what I learned for this month.
1) A great way to promote restful sleep?
Wear a pair of socks on your feet.
This helps to keep your feet warm and to promote blood circulation to your feet.

2) A way to keep your microwave fresh and clean?
On a regular basis, fill a cup with equal parts of vinegar and lemon juice.
Place your cup of vinegar and lemon juice in your microwave.
Turn on your microwave on medium high for 2 minutes.
When done, leave the cup in the microwave then remove.
You can now use a soft cloth to wipe the sides of your microwave.

3) Growing tomatoes?
Tomatoes love warm temperatures.
They do not thrive in colder weather.

4) Heard about the double decker scam?
This is the scam where scammers carry out their scams by obtaining your financial identity along with your personal identity.
They use your financial identity to obtain your credit card and banking details.
Then they use your personal identity to obtain your address.
They place their orders using both of your identities and voila!
They come by to collect their package using your info.
They keep a watch on your porch and balcony and swoop in when the package is being delivered.

5) And here is a tip when cooking salmon!
You do not need to cook it for more than five minutes.
Spread some butter in your skillet.
Place it skin down in your skillet
Cover and cook for five minutes.

6) About caffeine in your tea?
Believe it or not tea contains caffeine.

7) Wi-fi connections on a river boat?
Wi-fi connections are pretty iffy at the best of times.

8) Wi-fi connections in a hotel?
They are pretty reliable.
You can have access to a secure network or sometimes it is unsecured so be ware of this.

9) If you are planning to visit Switzerland!
This beautiful country is made up of lots of lakes and mountains.
It is divided into four Cantons based on language.
French, German, Italian, and Austrian.
Switzerland is a neutral country because of its location and being bordered by France, Germany, Italy, and Austria.

10) A safe way to wash your delicate clothes in the washer?
Place your delicates in a mesh bag and then place the mesh bag in the washer.
See how well they wash!

 

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Catching Up with Sight-Loss Coach Donna J. Jodhan – Cleaning Candles, Canvas Covers and Awnings, and Cigarette Smoke

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Catching Up with the Coach!

September 2024

 

To contact me with your ideas, send your emails to donnajodhan@gmail.com

 

5) Best Of Helpful Hints: The Best Of Hints For Cleaning The Miscellaneous

Candles

* Sponge with a piece of cotton dampened with rubbing alcohol.

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6) Best Of Helpful Hints: The Best Of Hints For Cleaning The Miscellaneous

Canvas Covers And Awnings

* Eliminate bird droppings with a stiff brush that has been run over a cake of yellow soap and sprinkled with dry washing soda. Hose well to rinse.

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7) Best Of Helpful Hints: The Best Of Hints For Cleaning The Miscellaneous

Cigarette Smoke

* Put bowls of vinegar in four corners of the room when smokers are congregating.

* Try activated charcoal in small dishes to remove post party odors.

* Burn scented candles to eliminate the smoke.

 

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A Review of the Royal Hotel in Liverpool – Welcoming and Accessible-Friendly!

A photograph of the front entrance of the Royal Hotel.

A Review of the Royal Hotel in Liverpool
by Donna Jodhan, award-winning advocate and sight-loss coach

Introduction:
This hotel is one that I would recommend for its friendliness, welcoming atmosphere, and o yes! Its accessibility features.

So how would I rate their services? With 1 being the lowest and 5 being the highest, here are my ratings.
Service desk assistance – 5
Assistance for guests with special needs – 5
Assistance at restaurant – 5

Remarks :
Access to the restaurant was extremely user friendly for a vision impaired person and navigating among the tables was not very difficult.

About hotel staff:
Extremely friendly, caring, and helpful.

My meals:
Extremely delicious and plentiful!

Any suggestions?
This hotel has the potential to show others the way!

Contact info:

To learn more about me as an award winning sight loss coach and advocate visit www.donnajodhan.com
Visit www.donnajodhan.com and access the coach page to learn about the services that I offer; affordable

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Ask Sight-Loss Coach Donna J. Jodhan – Gadget for Cleaning Strawberries; Best Type of Scraper for Cleaning Pots and Pans; How to Keep Snacks Fresh After Opening Bags, Boxes, and Packages

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Ask the Coach!

September 2024

My name is Donna Jodhan and I am using my extensive experience as a sight loss coach as well as my lived experience to share and respond to questions that are submitted to me and I also invite you to share your thoughts on questions asked.

 

For this month:  a question from Stephen in Pheonix Arizona.

Stephen is trying to find some sort of gadget to help him clean his strawberries.

 

My response:

Stephen, I recently came across this little gadget called a strawberry huller.

I am not sure if this is what you are looking for and I do not have much experience with this gadget if at all.

So I am going to seek feedback from others.

Normally, I wash my strawberries before slicing them.

 

Does anyone have any other suggestions?

Tell us what you think!  Share your feedback and let’s get more ideas cracking!

It’s important for us to share how we do things!

 

A question from Dalia in Billings Montana.

Dalia wants to know which is the best type of scraper when cleaning pots and pans.

 

My response:

Dalia, I would recommend a nylon pan scraper.

They are best when cleaning pots and pans

Because they do not scratch surfaces.

They are also very easy to clean after being used.

 

Does anyone have any other suggestions?

Tell us what you think!  Share your feedback and let’s get more ideas cracking!

It’s important for us to share how we do things!

 

A question from Jennifer in Sheffield England.

Jennifer is looking for suggestions to keep snacks fresh after opening bags, boxes, and packages.

 

My response:

Jen, I use bag clips to close my bags, boxes and packages after opening them.

A few years ago I bought magnetic clips and they work really well.

They are very versatile in that you can also use them to display your kids art on fridges and to close file folders.

 

Does anyone have any other suggestions?

Tell us what you think!  Share your feedback and let’s get more ideas cracking!

It’s important for us to share how we do things!

 

To contact me with a question or a thought; please send an email to me at donnajodhan@gmail.com and I’ll be sure to respond in 5 business days at the most.

If you wish me to respond earlier then put the word important in your subject line and I’ll do my best to respond more quickly.

Until the next time then!

I’m Donna wishing you a pleasant day and thanking everyone for their insightful feedback and suggestions!

 

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A Must-Read – World Renowned Advocate Donna J. Jodhan’s News Roundup for August 2024

A collage of two images. The first is a hexagonal badge that says, "Donna Jodhan Certified Revew." The image next to it is a photo of Donna Jodhan sitting at her laptop.

The Monthly News Roundup for Award-Winning Advocate, Sight-Loss Coach, and Author Donna J. Jodhan for the Month of August 2024

Read about Donna’s external engagements

Major news items can be found here
It’s all about Donna’s major initiatives for this month plus a lot more

Current Affairs

Here are just some of Donna’s highlights for August.
The Eye Retreat Camp
Donna completed her week long stint at the Eye Retreat camp on August 02.
From July 29 – August 02, Donna taught 2 one hour long courses each day to over 30 kids.
She taught advocacy 101 and entrepreneurship 101 to 2 different streams of kids; those preparing to enter college and those seeking employment.
Donna provided lectures along with giving the kids projects to work on.
On the final day of the camp the kids made presentations to the class.

Donna’s interview to the Life Styles magazine
On August 21 Donna gave a 50 minutes long interview via Zoom to a Life Styles writer.
She was asked many questions and the interview touched on several aspects of Donna’s life.
Her personal and professional lives, her aspirations, her missions, and much more.
Donna’s interview will be published some time in the fall.

You can start by taking a tour of Donna’s personal diary by visiting
www.donnajodhan.blogspot.com
Donna posts 3 times weekly and her posts gives you great insights into her daily life, challenges, and perspectives as a blind/vision impaired person.

Blogs posted for this month
To the www.sterlingcreations.ca/blog page
The struggle with apps

The Struggle with Apps – Some Are Doing Great but There Are Others Who Are Struggling and Who Are They?


The challenges with advisory committees – give them more influence!

The Challenges with Advisory Committees – We Need to Give Them More Influence


The elderly abuse syndrome

The Elderly Abuse Syndrome – We Are All Affected


How will History judge John Rafferty now retired CEO of the CNIB –time to be fair and square

You can also view previous selections here.

Contributions From Founder and Advocate Donna Jodhan

Donna has also posted other articles of interest on her
www.sterlingcreations.com/blog page
for this month.
News round up for July 2024

A must read! Donna J. Jodhan’s news round up for July 2024


Hottest tips from the Sterling Creations Business Desk

A Must Read – August’s monthly tips from the Sterling Creations team


A review of the London England tube system
https://sterlingcreations.com/blog/a-revie
https://sterlingcreations.com/blog/a-bit-of-this-and-a-bit-of-that-from-donnas-did-you-know-diary-see-what-donna-learned-for-this-monthA bit of this and a bit of that from Donna’s latest did you know diary

Catch up with Donna’s expert page at

Ask An Expert


and for this month

Ask an Expert – August 2024 – 10 Tips for Learning Excel

Read Donna’s author’s tip for this month

Ask an Author – August 2024 – Dreams of a Sandy Beach


And catch up with previous author’s tips

Ask An Author

Read Donna J. Jodhan’s articles on ask the coach for this month
Ask sight loss Coach Donna J. Jodhan –
How to save fresh herbs, best way to store dried herbs, how freezer packs can work for sore knees

Ask sight loss Coach Donna J. Jodhan – How to save fresh herbs, best way to store dried herbs, how freezer packs can work for sore knees

Read Donna J. Jodhan’s tips and hints for catching up with the coach for this month
Cleaning Artificial Flowers, unclogging Ball Point Pins, cleaning brass

Time to catch up with sight loss coach Donna J. Jodhan – Cleaning Artificial Flowers, unclogging Ball Point Pins, cleaning brass

See an archive of all of her product reviews at
https://www.toptechtidbits.com/news.html

Listen and catch up with Donna’s podcasts

Week 1 – ask the blogger
(on bullying;
Bullying in the workplace
Tips on entrepreneurship;
How to start a cleaning business
Scams and scammers;
Home renovators offer their services
Donna’s thought for today;
Customs agents opening boxes?
Ask the Blogger –
https://youtu.be/E
Week 2 – ask the coach.
From Donna’s did you know monthly diary – a bit of this and a bit of that
Questions to the coach –
Freda would like to get some advantages for using a carry on versus a suitcase.
Kiera is looking for tips on travel essentials.
Nina wants to know what she should put in her purse when flying rather than her carry on.
Ask The Sight Loss Coach –
https://youtu.be/fo9gVjE_px
Week 3 – ask the home maker.
21 Cupboard Essentials for a Diabetes Diet
Ask the Homemaker –

Week 4 – book and product reviews.
A product review
Topic = Microwave Rice & pasta Cooker
A book review
Topic = Damaged
by Lisa Scottalini
Ask the business reviewer
Topic = 10 tips to promote your bakery
Ask the Reviewer –

“ask Donna”( )
Ask Donna YouTube Playlist: https://donnajodhan.com/askdonna

“dining with donna”
( )
week 1 – Broccoli Soup

Week 2 – Camp fire stew

Week 3 – chili pie

Week 4 – Sunday night soup

Dining With Donna YouTube Playlist: https://www.donnajodhan.com/dwd

Your mental stretch with donna
Stretchers, motivators, and activators.

YouTube Playlist: Mental Stretch
https://donnajodhan.com/mentalstretch

Ask the business reviewer:
10 tips on promoting your bakery august 2024
YouTube Playlist: Ask the Business Reviewer –

Ask an expert:
10 tips for learning Excel
YouTube Playlist: Ask an Expert –

And now for Donna’s latest podcasts – her Blindly brilliant page on ETSE where Donna’s pottery creations are now available.
YouTube playlist: Blindly Brilliant – Etsy:

Read more about Donna’s ETSY mission:
Welcome to the Blindly Brilliant Monthly Podcast, hosted by Donna J. Jodhan – a visionary blind potter, advocate, and entrepreneur. Each month, Donna invites you into her world of creativity, resilience, and inspiration through her Etsy store, Blindly Brilliant.
In these captivating audio messages, Donna shares more than just updates on her latest pottery creations. She offers a unique blend of product showcases, personal insights, and motivational messages that transcend the typical shopping experience. As a blind potter since 2015, Donna’s journey is a testament to the power of imagination and determination.
Listen in as Donna:
1. Introduces her latest handcrafted ceramic pieces, from vibrant blue and white plates to expertly crafted bowls.
2. Shares her mission to prove that anything is “better than possible” when you put your mind to it.
3. Offers inspiration on breaking through barriers and thinking outside the box.
4. Encourages listeners to tap into their own creativity and potential.
5. Provides affordable, beautiful options to enrich your home and dining experiences.
6. Demonstrates how blindness can be a source of unique perspective and innovation in art and business.
Whether you’re a pottery enthusiast, someone seeking inspiration, or just curious about the intersection of art and accessibility, Donna’s monthly podcasts offer something special. Her warm, engaging style invites listeners to not just shop, but to become part of a community that celebrates creativity without limits.
Tune in monthly to explore the Blindly Brilliant collection, gain insights into the creative process of a blind artist, and be inspired to see the world through a different lens. Let Donna show you how to turn dreams into reality and how to use your own talents to motivate and encourage others.
Visit Etsy.com/shop/BlindlyBrilliant to browse Donna’s creations, and don’t forget to listen to her latest podcast for exclusive insights and inspiration. Join Donna on this remarkable journey where creativity knows no bounds, and every piece tells a story of resilience and imagination.

Now you can listen to donna’s other buffet of podcasts as follows:
Ask An Expert: August 2024
https://sites.libsyn.com/538282/ask-an-expert-august-2024
Ask The Business Reviewer: August 2024
https://sites.libsyn.com/538282/ask-the-business-reviewer-august-2024
Blindly Brilliant Podcast: August 2024 (A)
https://sites.libsyn.com/538282/blindly-brilliant-podcast-august-2024-a
Blindly Brilliant Podcast: August 2024 (B)
https://sites.libsyn.com/538282/blindly-brilliant-podcast-august-2024-b
Air Canada’s Accessibility Advisory Group Prepares for Second Face-to-Face Meeting with Renowned Advocate Donna J. Jodhan
https://at-newswire.com/press_release/air-canada-donna-jodhan-second-meeting-2024/ <https://at-newswire.com/press_release/air-canada-donna-jodhan-second-meeting-2024/>
08/08/2024: Remarkable World Commentary Episode #5: The Arrive Can App Catastrophe | Donna J. Jodhan | August 2024
Libsyn:
https://sites.libsyn.com/538282/remarkable-world-commentary-episode-5-the-arrive-can-app-catastrophe
YouTube:

08/08/2024: Remarkable World Commentary Episode #6: The Problem With QR Codes | Donna J. Jodhan | August 2024
Libsyn:
https://sites.libsyn.com/538282/remarkable-world-commentary-episode-6-the-problem-with-qr-codes
YouTube:

Other links:
Libsyn:
https://sites.libsyn.com/521708/site
The Libsyn RSS feed link is here:
https://feeds.libsyn.com/521708/rss
For Spotify:
https://feeds.libsyn.com/521708/spotify

Finally!
Donna has resumed posting to the Access to Information News weekly online newsletter
Sponsored by Mindvault Solutions!

The Challenges With Advisory Committees – An Acceptable Balance Is Badly Missing

The Elderly Abuse Syndrome – We Must Take Steps To Save Our Precious Seniors

How Will History Judge John Rafferty, CNIB’s Now Retired CEO? – Time To Be Fair And Square Canada

The Pending Demise of Applevis – Let’s Work Together To Save An Important Landmark!

To learn more about Donna as an award winning sight loss coach and advocate plus more visit www.donnajodhan.com

That’s it for this month.
Don’t forget to drop me an email at donnajodhan@gmail.com
Don’t be shy! Share your thoughts and feedback!

 

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See How Donna J. Jodhan Is Using Her Pottery to Create and Think

The Blindly Brilliant logo, featuring pottery on a wooden table.

Welcome to the Blindly Brilliant monthly podcast, hosted by Donna J. Jodhan – a visionary blind potter, advocate, and entrepreneur. Each month, Donna invites you into her world of creativity, resilience, and inspiration through her Etsy store, Blindly Brilliant.

In these captivating audio messages, Donna shares more than just updates on her latest pottery creations. She offers a unique blend of product showcases, personal insights, and motivational messages that transcend the typical shopping experience. As a blind potter since 2015, Donna’s journey is a testament to the power of imagination and determination.

Listen in as Donna:

  1. Introduces her latest handcrafted ceramic pieces, from vibrant blue and white plates to expertly crafted bowls.
  2. Shares her mission to prove that anything is “better than possible” when you put your mind to it.
  3. Offers inspiration on breaking through barriers and thinking outside the box.
  4. Encourages listeners to tap into their own creativity and potential.
  5. Provides affordable, beautiful options to enrich your home and dining experiences.
  6. Demonstrates how blindness can be a source of unique perspective and innovation in art and business.

Whether you’re a pottery enthusiast, someone seeking inspiration, or just curious about the intersection of art and accessibility, Donna’s monthly podcasts offer something special. Her warm, engaging style invites listeners to not just shop, but to become part of a community that celebrates creativity without limits.

Tune in monthly to explore the Blindly Brilliant collection, gain insights into the creative process of a blind artist, and be inspired to see the world through a different lens. Let Donna show you how to turn dreams into reality and how to use your own talents to motivate and encourage others.

Visit Blindly Brilliant on Etsy to browse Donna’s creations, and don’t forget to listen to her latest podcast for exclusive insights and inspiration. Join Donna on this remarkable journey where creativity knows no bounds, and every piece tells a story of resilience and imagination.

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A must read – Monthly tips for September 2024 from the Sterling Creations team

An update progress meter that is half-full.

Hello there and welcome to our monthly feature of all kinds of tips.
We at the business desk are pleased to bring you our monthly feature of a plethora of tips that cover a wide range of topics.
All of our tips are designed to help you save time, cut down on your research, and help you get ahead.
So go ahead and read on.
This week we bring you our monthly tips.
It’s what we do for a living! We help you to help yourself!
Enjoy!
From the business desk team at https://www.sterlingcreations.com.
Follow us on Twitter @accessibleworld

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The new look for 2024
September 2024
Welcome to our new look monthly tips where we are pleased to share a plethora of tricks and tips that are relevant to such things as technology, travel, managing your daily life, and much more.
So just come aboard, sit back, take a deep breath, and enjoy!
If you wish to contact us then please do not hesitate to write to us at info@sterlingcreations.ca and we promise to respond within 2 business days as long as technology allows us to do so.
Give us your feedback, comments, suggestions, and thoughts!
For it is only through you and with you that we are able to do this!

Table of contents –
1. From our 10 tips on technology series
2. From the pages of Donna’s travel diary
3. A bit of this and a bit of that from Donna’s did you know diary
4. From the scam watchers

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From our 10 tips on technology series

Hello everyone:
Welcome to my 10 tip series where each month I’ll be sharing 10 tips on various pieces of technology.
This would include tips on popular screen readers, office software, and browsers.
If you have any suggestions on what you would like me to share then by all means! Write to me at donnajodhan@sterlingcreations.ca.
For this month:
10 tips for learning power point

Certainly! Here are ten tips to help you learn PowerPoint effectively:
1.
Understand the Basics: Begin by familiarizing yourself with the basic features of PowerPoint
such as creating slides, adding text, images, and formatting options.
Knowing the fundamentals is essential for building more complex presentations later on.
2.

Utilize Templates:
PowerPoint offers a variety of pre-designed templates that can help you save time and maintain consistency in your presentations. Explore different templates and choose the one that best fits your content and style.

3.
Master Slide Layouts:
Learn how to use slide layouts effectively to organize your content.
Utilize different layouts for title slides, content slides, and section headers
to create a visually appealing and well-structured presentation.

4.
Practice Design Principles:
Familiarize yourself with design principles such as alignment, contrast, and consistency
to create visually appealing slides.
Avoid cluttered slides and use whitespace effectively to enhance readability.

5.
Learn Keyboard Shortcuts:
Keyboard shortcuts can significantly improve your productivity in PowerPoint.
Take the time to learn commonly used shortcuts for tasks such as copying, pasting, and formatting to speed up your workflow.

6.
Explore Multimedia Integration:
PowerPoint allows you to incorporate various multimedia elements such as images, videos, and audio clips into your presentations. Experiment with different multimedia options to make your presentations more engaging and interactive.

7.
Master Animation and Transitions:
Learn how to use animations and slide transitions to add visual interest to your presentation.
However, use them sparingly and purposefully to avoid overwhelming your audience.

8.
Practice Regularly:
Like any skill, proficiency in PowerPoint comes with practice.
Set aside time to practice creating presentations regularly,
experimenting with different features and techniques to improve your skills.

9.
Seek Feedback:
Share your presentations with colleagues, friends, or mentors and ask for feedback.
Constructive criticism can help you identify areas for improvement and refine your presentation skills.

10.
Utilize Online Resources:
Take advantage of online tutorials, courses, and forums to deepen your understanding of PowerPoint.
Websites like Microsoft’s official support page, YouTube tutorials, and
online courses on platforms like Coursera or Udemy offer a wealth of resources for learning PowerPoint at your own pace.

By following these tips and dedicating time to practice,
you’ll gradually become more proficient in creating engaging and impactful presentations using PowerPoint.

To contact me please send an email to info@sterlingcreations.ca
I’m Donna J. Jodhan (sight loss coach and accessibility advisor)

_________________________

Important tips from the travel table
From the pages of Donna’s diary
Choosing the most suitable vacation

In my humble opinion, choosing the most suitable vacation really depends on your priorities and your status.
Please allow me to explain.

Your choice of vacation as a single person with no dependents will differ greatly from a couple with kids and again from a couple with no kids.
The types of hobbies and interests will determine when you travel.
Spring, summer, fall, or winter.

Your preference of type of vacation will depend on whether you wish to go on a cruise by ocean, cruise on the river, a land tour, a train trip, a bus trip, or a road trip.

Your choice of vacation will depend on whether or not you are traveling with kids or with friends or other family members.

Of course, your budget will definitely determine your choice and it will also determine on where you travel to; domestically or internationally.

There are several other considerations for you to ponder and the final word from me would be as a senior, retiree, a younger person, etc.

I’m Donna J. Jodhan enjoying my travels.

To learn more about me as a sight loss coach and author visit
http://www.donnajodhan.com

On your next trip you could enrich your down time with some of my audio mysteries. Take them with you wherever you go!
In the car, on the plane, on the bus or train, at the beach, anywhere!
And now you can listen to Donna’s weekly podcasts!
Ask donna – a plethora of tips from a sight loss coach along with book and product reviews!
Dining with donna – recipes and time saving tips for the kitchen!
Your mental stretch with Donna – how to recharge, renew, and get going! Save yourself from those dramas, traumas, and stress!
Visit www.donnajodhan.com/youtube
and subscribe for free
Follow me on Twitter @accessibleworld and at author_jodhan
And like me on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/donnajodhan and at www.facebook.com/authordonnajodhan

_________________________

A bit of this and a bit of that from Donna’s did you know diary
September 2024
A bit of this and a bit of that from Donna’s did you know diary
Award winning sight loss coach, author and advocate

Welcome to my Donna’s did you know diary for this month and pleased to share the following with you.

Here’s what I learned for this month.

1) Often wondered why so many restaurants close on Mondays?
Well, they do this so as to clean up, refresh, and restock after the weekend.

2) How about siesta times in France and Spain?
In France it is from about 1 pm to 3 pm and in Spain?
From about 1 pm to 4 pm.

3) 3) Treating bee stings and wasp stings?
Lightly coat your stings with a bit of vinegar.

4) What is the difference between mock tails and cock tails?
Mock tails are non alcoholic while cock tails are alcoholic.

5) Looking for ways to drastically reduce your roaming charges?
In the UK and in Europe, the preferred method is What’s App.
In North America they also use Facetime if the communication is from iPhone to iPhone.
Of course, there are other apps to check out.

6) What is the difference between a password and a pass code?
The password is used to access emails and documents.
The pass code is used to access one’s I device and contains 4 numbers.

7) What is the difference between a river boat and a cruise ship?
The river boat is much smaller and holds less than 200 passengers.
There are only about 3 floors.
The cruise ship is much larger and holds many more passengers.

8) And what’s this about the benefits of dates?
Indeed, dates appear to be very good for you.
They contain lots of nutrients and the ingestion of at least 2 dates can help to quench your appetite for more food!

 

_________________________

From the scam watchers
The Top 3 Scams to Watch Out for in September
As we head into September, it’s crucial to stay vigilant against scammers who are constantly evolving their tactics. Here are the top three scams to be aware of this month:
1. Phishing Scams with a Seasonal Twist
With the end of summer and the start of school, scammers are capitalizing on these transitions to craft convincing phishing emails. Expect messages that claim to be from educational institutions, seasonal retailers, or even school-related charities. These emails often include urgent requests for personal information or direct you to fake websites that look strikingly similar to legitimate ones. Always verify the sender’s email address and avoid clicking on any links or downloading attachments from unsolicited messages.
2. Charity Scams Exploiting Natural Disasters
September often brings heightened weather activity, and scammers use this to their advantage by creating fake charity appeals. They exploit natural disasters or significant global events to solicit donations, pretending to support disaster relief efforts. If you receive a donation request, especially from unfamiliar organizations, research the charity thoroughly before contributing. Check for official website URLs and look up reviews or ratings from reputable sources.
3. Online Marketplace Fraud
As the holiday season approaches, many people start their shopping early, making online marketplaces a prime target for fraud. Scammers set up fake listings for high-demand items, such as electronics or popular gifts, at unusually low prices. Once you make a purchase, the scammer disappears, and you’re left without the product or a way to get your money back. Stick to well-known and secure platforms, and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Always use secure payment methods and read reviews from other buyers before making a purchase.
Staying informed and cautious can help protect you from falling victim to these scams. Be skeptical of unsolicited requests, do your research, and verify information before acting. Keep these tips in mind to safeguard your personal and financial information this September and beyond.
_________________________

Contact info:
Visit our websites at www.sterlingcreations.ca
www.donnajodhan.com
www.sterlingcreations.com

Email us at info@sterlingcreations.ca

Or call us at 416 491-7711

 

 

 

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Ask the Scam Watcher – Donna’s New Feature for September 2024

Donna J. Jodhan is a world-renowned advocate, author, blogger, sight-loss coach, dinner mystery writer and producer, entrepreneur, law graduate, and podcast commentator.
Donna has been in the business since 2000, and her many roles have allowed her to recognize that there is a growing need for consumers and clients to be made aware of some of the most dangerous and popular scams.

Donna herself has been unwittingly scammed over the years a few times, and now she is using her skills, experience, knowledge, and expertise to help others avoid pitfalls and heartache. And as a vision-impaired professional and person, she is ready to help you stay ahead! Donna knows only too well how much we all need to work overtime to protect the most vulnerable from those unscrupulous scammers!

Please read her latest suite of scams to watch out for, and she would love to hear from you with your own feedback.


A magnifying glass, notepad, and pencil rest on a tabletop.

Ask the Scam Watcher – September 2024

The Top 3 Scams to Watch Out for in September
As we head into September, it’s crucial to stay vigilant against scammers who are constantly evolving their tactics. Here are the top three scams to be aware of this month:

  1. Phishing Scams with a Seasonal Twist: With the end of summer and the start of school, scammers are capitalizing on these transitions to craft convincing phishing emails. Expect messages that claim to be from educational institutions, seasonal retailers, or even school-related charities. These emails often include urgent requests for personal information or direct you to fake websites that look strikingly similar to legitimate ones. Always verify the sender’s email address and avoid clicking on any links or downloading attachments from unsolicited messages.
  2. Charity Scams Exploiting Natural Disasters: September often brings heightened weather activity, and scammers use this to their advantage by creating fake charity appeals. They exploit natural disasters or significant global events to solicit donations, pretending to support disaster relief efforts. If you receive a donation request, especially from unfamiliar organizations, research the charity thoroughly before contributing. Check for official website URLs and look up reviews or ratings from reputable sources.
  3. Online Marketplace Fraud: As the holiday season approaches, many people start their shopping early, making online marketplaces a prime target for fraud. Scammers set up fake listings for high-demand items, such as electronics or popular gifts, at unusually low prices. Once you make a purchase, the scammer disappears, and you’re left without the product or a way to get your money back. Stick to well-known and secure platforms, and be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Always use secure payment methods and read reviews from other buyers before making a purchase.

Staying informed and cautious can help protect you from falling victim to these scams. Be skeptical of unsolicited requests, do your research, and verify information before acting. Keep these tips in mind to safeguard your personal and financial information this September and beyond.


Contact info:

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A bit of this and a bit of that from Donna’s did you know diary – see what Donna learned for this month

The initials "D.J." in cursive script, with "Author Donna Jodhan" below.

August 2024 monthly tips

A bit of this and a bit of that from Donna’s did you know diary
Award winning sight loss coach, author and advocate
You can contact me via email at donnajodhan@gmail.com

Practical and natural!
Welcome to my Donna’s did you know diary for this month and pleased to share the following with you.

Here’s what I learned for this month.
1) About cottage cheese
Cottage cheese contains loads of protein.

2) About covering your fingers when slicing cheese
Did you know that if you do not cover your fingers when slicing cheese,
Your fingers can spread bacteria to your cheese?

3) About coke, seven up, and ginger ale
Coke contains the most sugar.
Seven up is next
And ginger ale contains the least amount of sugar.

4) How to preserve avocadoes after you have cut them
Squeeze a bit of lemon juice on them.

5) About bananas, rice, apple sauce
Any of these 3 can be used to help stop a Diarrhea

6) A tip about using scented body wash or soap:
Scented body wash or soap is harsher on the skin than unscented body wash or soap.

7) When storing grapes in your fridge:
Make sure that they remain on the vein.
For if they don’t and drop off, they will wilt and soften.

8) And what are some of the more difficult odors to get rid of when you do your laundry?
Smells of sweat, urine, and musty smells.

9) All about the benefits of smiling!
Each time you smile you improve your own mental health by driving stress away.
You also improve the mental health of those around you.

10) Some helpful tips on water
1. By some estimates, about 75 percent of people in the U.S. are “chronically dehydrated.”
2. Perhaps one-third of people in the U.S. have a sensation of thirst so weak that it’s often mistaken for hunger.
Maybe this is why one study revealed that a glass of water will shut down nighttime hunger pangs for most people.
3. Even a small amount of dehydration can slow a person’s metabolism down.
For this reason, lack of water is the primary cause of fatigue during the day.
4. A 2 percent drop in body water can cause fuzzy short-term memory,
difficulty with basic math,
and trouble focusing on a computer screen
or on a printed page
(by the time a person feels thirsty, the body has already lost about 1 percent of its water volume).

 

5. Drinking sufficient water every day decreases the risk of colon cancer, bladder cancer,
and very possibly other cancers.
The American Cancer Society recommends drinking at least 8 cups of liquid a day.
It’s obvious that proper water intake can eliminate or ease a whole host of common health problems.
This shouldn’t be surprising, since our bodies are up to 75 percent water.
Water plays a role in almost every body function,
carrying nutrients and oxygen to every cell,
helping us to breathe,
cushioning and protecting our vital organs and joints,
converting food into energy, and removing waste.

 

 

 

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