tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-55416654066582075532012-02-16T18:59:23.306-08:00Vancouver Mailbox RentalThe Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comBlogger1571100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-68067785882046939322011-07-28T18:43:00.001-07:002011-07-28T18:43:48.868-07:00Our mailbox rental is cheaper than PO box<div class='posterous_autopost'><p style="margin-top: .05pt; margin-right: .9pt; margin-bottom: 4.75pt; margin-left: 0in; line-height: normal;"><span style="color: black;">Our mailbox rental is a greater alternative to the regular PO box rental. A lot of the times, post office boxes only receive letters. If you have parcels sent to PO boxes, they usually charge you for storage and the size of it. With our service, we’re able to receive parcels of any size (as long as they fit through our doors) and letters without cost. You don’t have to wait in line to pick up your oversized packages or letters.</span></p> <p style="margin-top: .05pt; margin-right: .9pt; margin-bottom: 4.75pt; margin-left: 0in; line-height: normal;"><span style="color: black;">And then there are always the unexpected customs and duty fees. Parcels with any customs or duty fees are always left uncertain at PO boxes – will they be received or paid for? <span> </span>Overweight packages are not received by PO boxes either. Not to worry, we pay for this when it arrives and invoice you. This way, you are not losing any business or any important shipments that end up costing you more money. </span></p> <p style="margin-top: .05pt; margin-right: .9pt; margin-bottom: 4.75pt; margin-left: 0in; line-height: normal;"><span style="color: black;">With our packages, you have the option of having your mail forwarded to you at a very low cost. For longer sign up terms, you receive a higher discount.</span></p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/our-mailbox-rental-is-cheaper-than-po-box">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-6806778588204693932?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-62612105276024368332011-07-28T18:20:00.001-07:002011-07-28T18:20:20.170-07:00Why we're better than a PO box (tag: PO box vancouver, mailbox rental vancouver, mail forwarding)<div class='posterous_autopost'><p>Here at <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca" target="_blank">The Network Hub</a>, we provide a wide range of services that cater to small business and entrepreneurs; from phone answering service to temporary and short-term office space to meeting room rentals. One of our most popular services is our mailbox rental.</p><p><br /></p> <p>With our mailbox rental, you are given a real street address, not a PO box. This means you can use your new business address to register and incorporate. And we’ll let you know once your official documents have arrived through our email notifications. Unlike a postal box rental, we let you know what has been received and who it is from, so you can save yourself a trip if you are checking for mail – you know exactly what you have in your mailbox.</p><p><br /></p> <p>When you publish the address on your business cards and website, clients are able to see that your business is in a commercial downtown location, not a residential area or post office. These days, everyone is using Google street view to see where you are. So, you can show them a downtown office.<span>  </span></p><p><span><br /> </span></p> <p>Our mailbox rental includes reception service between 9am and 5pm on weekdays. When your potential clients or current clients come in to speak to you, they are greeted by a receptionist at our office. They’ll see offices, a meeting room and waiting area. We let you know who came in and email you with their message. Since we are actually an office, you are able to book out our meeting room to meet your clients, or rent a workstation to finish your work.</p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/why-were-better-than-a-po-box-tag-po-box-vanc">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-6261210527602436833?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-88117062902671798252011-03-24T13:25:00.001-07:002011-03-24T13:25:45.403-07:00What The Network Hub looked like in 2006…<div class='posterous_autopost'><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 24px;">Let’s turn back the clock a few years… in 2006 my partners and I were all in university.  John and I were both attending SFU and Jay was attending UBC. School wasn’t the only thing on our mind, we were also juggling clients from our web company – building databases and designing network infrastructure between classes was normal since we’ve been doing it since high school. Between coding/designing/managing/school we were desperate to connect with other people who can understand our struggles and can celebrate our successes with us.</span><br /> <div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 24px;"> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> The three of us had a vision to make a space that is a fraternity house for people who work for themselves but not by themselves. We scraped together all our savings, took on extra projects and worked part-time jobs on top of school work to make The Network Hub happen because there was no IFs or BUTs, it HAS to be done.  Whether it was coming to the space after school to help the contractor in order to speed up construction or staying late to paint or sleeping on the floor because we were too exhausted to go home because school was about to start again, we did whatever it took to get the job done.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> This is how it all began… the before pictures and then the in-progress pictures!</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="The Network Hub - Before Picture" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/03/343687702_0a026400a8_b-2.jpg" height="614" alt="343687702 0a026400a8 b 2 What The Network Hub looked like in 2006…" style="margin-top: 0.5em; margin-right: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal; float: left;" /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="The Network Hub - Before Picture" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/03/343687706_3feac5e722_b.jpg" height="614" alt="343687706 3feac5e722 b What The Network Hub looked like in 2006…" style="margin-top: 0.5em; margin-right: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal; float: left;" /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="The Network Hub - Before Picture" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/03/343687698_09f870d0cc_b.jpg" height="614" alt="343687698 09f870d0cc b What The Network Hub looked like in 2006…" style="margin-top: 0.5em; margin-right: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal; float: left;" /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> WHAT WE LOOK LIKE TODAY!</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="The Network Hub - Coworking Vancouver" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/03/about-1024x755.jpg" height="604" alt="about 1024x755 What The Network Hub looked like in 2006…" style="margin-top: 0.5em; margin-right: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal; float: left;" /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="The Network Hub - Coworking Vancouver" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/03/4651681363_b656a97fd5_b.jpg" height="546" alt="4651681363 b656a97fd5 b What The Network Hub looked like in 2006…" style="margin-top: 0.5em; margin-right: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal; float: left;" /><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver//goto/http://www.jeremylim.ca/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">Picture by talented Jeremy Lim for Freelance Camp 2010</a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="The Network Hub - Coworking Vancouver" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/03/4651679037_ae74c7df7d_b.jpg" height="546" alt="4651679037 ae74c7df7d b What The Network Hub looked like in 2006…" style="margin-top: 0.5em; margin-right: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal; float: left;" /><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver//goto/http://www.jeremylim.ca/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">Picture by talented Jeremy Lim for Freelance Camp 2010</a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="The Network Hub - Coworking Vancouver" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/03/4655030232_2158f5bc9c_b.jpg" height="546" alt="4655030232 2158f5bc9c b What The Network Hub looked like in 2006…" style="margin-top: 0.5em; margin-right: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal; float: left;" /></p> <span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"><br /> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 24px;"><span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver//goto/http://www.nickytu.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">Picture by talented Nicky Tu for Freelance Camp 2010</a></span></span></div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/what-the-network-hub-looked-like-in-2006">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-8811706290267179825?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-1954382931510584422011-03-03T12:08:00.001-08:002011-03-03T12:08:31.875-08:00So you got high Klout score… so what<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 24px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="imagesCAH2YXH3" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/03/imagesCAH2YXH3-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="imagesCAH2YXH3 150x150 So you got high Klout score... so what" width="150" style="margin-top: 0.5em; margin-right: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal; float: left;" />With the emergence of social media “experts” popping everywhere and some are aggressively flaunting their Klout scores to intimidate their potential clients and friends, I feel the need to do a breakdown of how this works.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Here is a little bit of a preamble, I appreciate Klout and I have advised some of my friends to use Klout as one of MANY  tools out there to analyze how they are doing on Twitter.  It is a good tool if you genuinely are interested in authentic engagement but Klout isn’t perfect, nothing is.  If you really want to, you can game Klout to get a high score.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Here is how you game Klout:</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> 1) Engage with people who have high Klout scores, people like @<a href="http://twitter.com/hummingbird604" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">hummingbird604</a> @<a href="http://twitter.com/jason_baker" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">jason_baker</a> @<a href="http://twitter.com/kempedmonds" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">kempedmonds</a> @<a href="http://twitter.com/vancitybuzz" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">vancitybuzz</a> and ignore people with low Klout score</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> 2) Ask controversial questions or ask for RTs, for example “What do you think about #charliesheen?” or “I love iPad 2, RT if you agree.”  BONUS: If you exploit trending topics and tag people, it increases your score even faster because it forces people to respond.  As an example, “What do you think about #charliesheen? @<a href="http://twitter.com/hummingbird604" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">hummingbird604</a> @<a href="http://twitter.com/vancitybuzz" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">vancitybuzz</a> @<a href="http://twitter.com/kempedmonds" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">kempedmonds</a> @<a href="http://twitter.com/jason_baker" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">jason_baker</a>”</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> 3) Run contests on Twitter, pony up a few hundred bucks.  Heck even 50 bucks will get people excited.  “Win $50 bucks, just RT to enter”</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> 4) Campaign people to follow you and make them feel guilty if they don’t.  BONUS: Once they follow you, you unfollow them because you score higher if you have more followers than followings</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> 5) Tag everyone in your tweets so you get on their radar in order to achieve #4, for example “Nice to see you tonight @<a href="http://twitter.com/hummingbird604" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">hummingbird604</a> @<a href="http://twitter.com/vancitybuzz" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">vancitybuzz</a> @<a href="http://twitter.com/kempedmonds" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">kempedmonds</a> @<a href="http://twitter.com/jason_baker" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">jason_baker</a> @<a href="http://twitter.com/more" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">more</a> influencers”</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> You don’t have to add any particular value and still have high score because Klout relies on an algorithm that most definitely take into account of reach, amplification and network.  If your “network” are people with high score – well it thinks you are somewhat of a big deal.  Begging for RTs give you amplification because you are reaching other people’s network, it doesn’t take into account that you are paying for this reach with contests or because you applied social pressure by tagging people making them obligated to response. If you follow a few influencers, pressure them to follow you and engage in conversation with you then you achieve a high true reach score.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> There are people like @<a href="http://twitter.com/hummingbird604" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">hummingbird604</a> @<a href="http://twitter.com/vancitybuzz" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">vancitybuzz</a> @<a href="http://twitter.com/kempedmonds" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">kempedmonds</a> @<a href="http://twitter.com/jason_baker" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">jason_baker</a> who have achieved high Klout scores because they genuinely engage, they care and they provide value for their followers and you can tell from their interactions on Twitter.  Then there are those who game Klout to flaunt, intimidate and make other people feel inferior which is NOT the purpose of social media.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> To them I say, “You can game Klout but you can’t game people”</p></div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/so-you-got-high-klout-score-so-what">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-195438293151058442?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-12769476281680918652011-03-03T12:04:00.001-08:002011-03-03T12:04:26.547-08:00Tool Tuesdays: What time is the best time to tweet?<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 24px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> One of the big questions right now in social media is what time is the best time to tweet?  There are a few ideas out there.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Guy Kawasaki mentioned in his blog post, “Looking for Mr. Goodtweet:  How to Pick Up Followers on Twitter”</p><blockquote style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 1.5em; padding-right: 1.5em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 3em; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 5px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal; border-left-color: initial; display: inline-block;"> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <strong style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: 800;">Tip 9: Repeat your tweets.</strong> Try this experiment: take your most interesting tweets (as measured by how many people retweet them, perhaps) and post them again three times, eight to twelve hours apart. I used to think that people would complain about repeating tweets, but I’ve never had a complaint. My theory is that the volume of tweets is so high and most people check in at about the same time every day, so people don’t notice repeat tweet</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Read more: <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/goto/http://blog.guykawasaki.com/2008/11/looking-for-m-1.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">http://blog.guykawasaki.com/2008/11/looking-for-m-1.html</a></p> </blockquote><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Dan Zarrella, HubSpot’s social media scientist did some studies and found,</p><blockquote style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 1.5em; padding-right: 1.5em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 3em; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 5px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal; border-left-color: initial; display: inline-block;"> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> I noticed that retweet activity tended to peak around 4pm EST, suggesting that this might be the best time to tweet a blog post for maximum potential retweet reach.</p></blockquote> <blockquote style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 1.5em; padding-right: 1.5em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 3em; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 5px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal; border-left-color: initial; display: inline-block;"> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> When I looked at retweet activity over the days of the week, I saw that they peaked later in the work week, specifically on Friday.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Read more: <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/goto/http://www.problogger.net/archives/2010/12/06/whens-the-best-time-to-publish-blog-posts/?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed:+ProbloggerHelpingBloggersEarnMoney+(ProBlogger:+Helping+Bloggers+Earn+Money)&amp;utm_content=Google+Reader" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">http://www.problogger.net/archives/2010/12/06/whens-the-best-time-to-publish-blog-posts/</a></p> </blockquote><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> This all make sense but for social media to truly be social, I think the goal is to engage with my followers and a blanket approach is a good starting point but to really create a relationship, it has to be customized to my own followers.   That’s not to say I don’t tweet on Friday at 4pm EST and repeat the good tweets so more people can see it.  I believe in the Dan Zarrella’s science and Guy Kawasaki’s practical experience, I would never ignore hard evidence but I also want to make sure I understand MY own followers.  In comes, Timely which is aptly name for a service whose sole function is to schedule tweets for maximum impact.    It’s pretty simple when they break it down on their front page, so simple it provokes a DOH why didn’t I think of that and did that myself kind of reaction.  The magic is in the simplicity of Timely.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> You add your tweets, it schedules to tweet out the tweets according to the time it thinks will produce the most impact – impact is defined as increase in retweets, mentions and followers.  The science of it is it analyzes your past 199 tweets and figure out the best time slot, it learns as your following grows.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="Timely" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/02/timely.gif" height="543" alt="timely Tool Tuesdays: What time is the best time to tweet?" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;" /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Timely does absolutely produce results it promised – there is an increase in retweet, mention and retweet per tweet.  My only problem with Timely is, if it schedules consistently the same time I might miss out the opportunity to reach out to new followers to build relationships with people who operates outside of the time frame that yields the most impact.  I don’t solely rely on Timely, I use it to tweet quotes mostly.  I read and share all my links mostly live.   Even just figuring out what time is your most optimal times to tweet is very interesting, if it’s just for the sake of knowing but I believe in knowing what times to tweet also tell you a lot about the followers that engage you.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> I hope you find Timely useful, if you have used Timely let me know your experience.  If you are going to start, pop back in at some point and let me know how it went.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <em style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal; font-style: italic;">Note: These are tools I have used for a substantial amount of time (&gt; 2 wks) and have found useful for me, this is not a paid post and paid is defined as money, swags, free dinner, t-shirts, pens, free coffee, gift certificate… absolutely nothing!</em></p> </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/tool-tuesdays-what-time-is-the-best-time-to-t">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-1276947628168091865?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-84769909755019848202011-03-03T12:01:00.001-08:002011-03-03T12:01:46.857-08:00A Colourful Discussion on Being Green<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 24px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <a style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"><img title="A Colourful Discussion on Being Green" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/03/garden-300x200.jpg" height="200" alt="garden 300x200 A Colourful Discussion on Being Green" width="300" style="margin-top: 0.5em; margin-right: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal; float: left;" /></a>Last week, a diverse group of community leaders from the South Asian, Filipino and Chinese communities gathered at city hall for a roundtable discussion with the goal of making Vancouver the Greenest City in the world by 2020.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> The discussion was moderated by two media professionals from the local Filipino and South Asian media – Marieton Pacheco of Balitang Vancouver Filipino TV news and Tarunnum Thind of OMNI TV. Representing the city were Deputy City Manager, Sadhu Johnston and Greenest City Planner, Lindsay Cole.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> I attended the meeting as a representative of <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/goto/http://tulayan.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">Tulayan</a> (Bridges), a Filipino cultural group, along with my co-organizer Rafael Aquino (@<a href="http://twitter.com/ayoslang" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">ayoslang</a>) and some friends from the Filipino community, @<a href="http://twitter.com/NicoleIgnacio" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">NicoleIgnacio</a> and @<a href="http://twitter.com/LMHVancouver" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">LMHVancouver</a>.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Preet Bal and Manmeet Poonam Sandhu from Sandhog Creations Society spoke about their successful efforts in making the Vaisakhi parade greener. A model that can easily be adapted by other cultural events in Vancouver and the rest of the lower mainland.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> The input from the diverse group of young and old community organizers was refreshingly frank and insightful.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> It was pointed out that the contributions of minority communities are not generally acknowledged whenever there are discussions about making Vancouver a greener city. For example, the idea of growing vegetable gardens in the backyard is already a common practice in the homes of recent immigrants. Buying in bulk, a common practice with immigrant families, helps reduce the amount of packaging waste that is thrown out. Using all parts of an animal in their dishes is a common practice in Asian cooking, a practice that makes better use of available resources and reduces waste.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> A rather glaring ommission that was pointed out is the lack of minority faces in the marketing materials printed by the City of Vancouver’s Greenest City campaign, thus neglecting the contribution of the minority communities and perpetuating the perception that these goals do not include them. It was agreed that acknowledging the contributions of the minority communities would be a good first step in bridging these communities’ efforts with the city’s Greenest City goal.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Another strong feedback from the group was that it was very important to appeal to immigrant communities on a more practical level. For example, the majority of recent immigrants are simply unable to afford higher priced organic food. As well, third world country immigrants may not be as familiar with the idea of recycling, and educating them on the practical monetary incentive of returning used bottles would be better received.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> The roundtable talk felt a little short given the amount of issues and ideas that were being discussed, but I also came away hopeful knowing that everyone involved will bring back the same idea to their respective groups – that together, we can accomplish more by working towards the same goal.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <object height="417" width="500"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/tX-CjkfBKUs&hl=en&fs=1" /></param><param name="wmode" value="window" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /></param><embed allowfullscreen="true" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/tX-CjkfBKUs&hl=en&fs=1" wmode="opaque" allowscriptaccess="always" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" height="417" width="500"></embed></object></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> </p></div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/a-colourful-discussion-on-being-green">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-8476990975501984820?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-62185529384745896082011-03-03T11:55:00.001-08:002011-03-03T11:55:08.692-08:00Events in Vancouver: Fashion’s Night OUT<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 24px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="Fashion&#39;s Night OUT" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/03/logo.gif" height="91" alt="logo Events in Vancouver: Fashion’s Night OUT" width="116" style="margin-top: 0.5em; margin-right: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal; float: left;" />It’s cold, it’s rainy and it feels better to be hiding under a blanket at home than to be outside BUT there is an event worth getting OUT for!  Fashion’s Night OUT is presented by The Bay at White Space in V Lounge on March 8.  It indeed it will be a night to remember with cocktail reception, silent auction, live DJ and gift bags with a fashion show presented by The Bay.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> The wonderful thing about this event is that 100% of the proceeds will go to <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/goto/http://outinschools.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">Out in School</a>.  Out in Schools is an amazing organization that facilitate discussions with youth on bullying, homophobia and stereotypes.  Vancouver is a tolerant city that embraces diversities but with the recent incidents of gay bashing and violence, there is much we need to do through education of our youths about tolerance.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Watch this video from Ellen DeGeneres about tragic suicides among gay teenagers due to bullying <object height="417" width="500"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/_B-hVWQnjjM&hl=en&fs=1" /></param><param name="wmode" value="window" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /></param><embed allowfullscreen="true" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/_B-hVWQnjjM&hl=en&fs=1" wmode="opaque" allowscriptaccess="always" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" height="417" width="500"></embed></object></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> </p><blockquote style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 1.5em; padding-right: 1.5em; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 3em; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 5px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal; border-left-color: initial; display: inline-block;"> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> “These kids needed us. We have an obligation to change this. There are messages everywhere that validate this kind of bullying and taunting and we have to make it stop. We can’t let intolerance and ignorance take another kid’s life.”</p> </blockquote><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Ellen DeGeneres is right, these kids do NEED us and we have an OBLIGATION to make a change. Join me and others who want to stand up and says NO, we will not lose our children to intolerance and ignorance.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Grab a ticket and show your support, purchase your ticket here at <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/goto/http://bit.ly/fUZOg9" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">http://fnovancouver.eventbrite.com/</a></p> <br /></div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/events-in-vancouver-fashions-night-out">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-6218552938474589608?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-25598398538883464402011-03-03T11:49:00.001-08:002011-03-03T11:49:03.381-08:00Things to do in Vancouver: When you are snowed in…<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 24px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> So it’s snowpocalypse in Vancouver, you stored away your winter gears and is weary of motorists who freak out when we get a cm of snow so what to do? Here are some suggestions:</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> 1. Get a blanket and curl up with that book you’ve been meaning to read but haven’t gotten around to it</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> 2. Curl up in front of the TV, turn to TVtropolis or channel 48 and watch reruns of old sitcoms – instead of a blast of cold breeze to your face get a blast from the past</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> 3. Dust off those old board games – Yahtzee, Scrabble, Monopoly, or whatever you have stored away in the basement or in your attic because before the iPhone apps and web version, there were these with real board and real game pieces</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> 4. If you can find a toque, pair of gloves and a nice warm jacket, stroll down to your neighborhood shops, restaurants or pubs. Revisit the old neighborhood haunts you have forgotten and on a cold day like today, I’m sure they would appreciate your business</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> 5. Brew a cup of tea and plant yourself in front of a window to appreciate the winter wonderland. Admire the snow covered streets and trees, it’s a beautiful thing</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Bonus: 6. Pull up your website and blog about things to do on a snowy day <img title="Things to do in Vancouver: When you are snowed in…" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_biggrin.gif" alt="icon biggrin Things to do in Vancouver: When you are snowed in…" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;" /></p> </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/things-to-do-in-vancouver-when-you-are-snowed">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-2559839853888346440?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-34859080810359855842011-03-03T11:36:00.001-08:002011-03-03T11:36:37.653-08:00Friend Friday: The Future of Social Gaming<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 24px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/02/thinkingape-300x221.jpg" alt="thinkingape 300x221 Friend Friday: The Future of Social Gaming" /></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> I first met the cofounders of A Thinking Ape – <a style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">Kenshi, Eric and Wilkins </a>when they first moved into The Network Hub, literally within weeks after they moved Vancouver from Silicon Valley.   Unfortunately their explosive growth meant their time with us was short, they quickly outgrew our space within months of being here.  Their first game “<a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/goto/http://itunes.apple.com/ml/app/kingdoms-at-war/id319170675?mt=8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">Kingdoms at War</a>” is consistently in the Top 10 grossing games in US.  Their latest releases <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/goto/http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/future-combat-patriots-at-war/id381182608?mt=8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">Future Combat </a>and <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/goto/http://www.partyinmydorm.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">Party in my Dorm</a> are receiving the same reception as Kingdoms at War.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Meeting the cofounders, you can tell they are different from a lot of other people you meet – they live and breathe the company.   Their ambition is palpable, their vision is laser-focused and their drive is the same you find in people like Mark Zuckerberg and Steve Jobs.  I was around for their first round of hiring, the people they brought on the team are incredibly intelligent young people and they let everyone on the team have amazing creative freedom.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Within a short year, they have built an impressive team of 18 people and 3 hyper-growth iPhone games.  They are far from done, in fact they are just getting started… the future of social gaming is in Vancouver.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> It is amazing to have A Thinking Ape in Vancouver, they hire local talent and ensure we keep these brains in B.C., inspiring local entrepreneurs but also putting the spotlight in Vancouver as a viable place for hyper-growth startups.  For these reasons and more, you need to follow @<a href="http://twitter.com/athinkingape" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">athinkingape</a> and if you haven’t tried their game, check it out right now, they’re free to download!</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Did I mention they are hiring?  Did you know all new members of ATA engineering are equipped with a new Macbook Pro, an iPhone, and a high quality design notebook?  They are looking to add to their team – if you are an engineer looking to join an awesome startup or a new grad looking for a cool fun place to grow in, check out their <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/goto/http://www.athinkingape.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">job postings</a>.</p> </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/friend-friday-the-future-of-social-gaming">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-3485908081035985584?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-43578409746263259382011-03-03T11:32:00.001-08:002011-03-03T11:32:37.662-08:00Events in Vancouver: Lean Startup Conference<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 24px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> As some of you know, my cofounders and I all come from a technical background.  We use lean startup processes in our development work and we also apply it to  The Network Hub.  Lean startup is powered by three drivers –  use of platforms enabled by open source and free software, application of agile development, customer-centric rapid iteration.  A lot of people think it is for high tech only, I beg to differ.   We apply the same process to The Network Hub, lean startup is available to all entrepreneurs who is planning to start their business.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> I highly encourage startup entrepreneurs checking out the conference, especially entrepreneurs in high tech.   You will learn why a startup successful and why another is unsuccessful.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> This video will provide very compelling reasons why you should check out Lean Startup Conference <object height="304" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" width="500"></object></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> If you are currently working for a startup or want to work for one and you haven’t heard of or understand lean startup – you definitely want to check out this conference.  Lean Startup Conference will be taking place in Richmond on May 5-6th at Hilton Vancouver Airport.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Who should attend? Anyone who is:</p><ul style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 2em; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> either working for or planning to work for a start-up</li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> losing sleep because of having a brilliant idea and wanting to see it implemented</li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> tasked with designing new features and wants to know how to validate ideas and business assumptions with customers</li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> wanting to reduce waste and amplify learning</li><li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> curious to know what all the excitement is about</li></ul><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> There are some amazing speakers lined up for the event such as Ash Maurya, Rishi Dean, Rob Walling, Owen Rogers and Steven Jones</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> For more information, check out <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/goto/http://www.agilevancouver.ca" title="Lean Startup Conference" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" style="">www.agilevancouver.ca</a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> This was the video that began our obsession with lean startup so I hope it gets you excited and wanting to check out Lean Startup Conference: <object height="398" classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" width="500"></object></p> <span style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"><br /> </span></div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/events-in-vancouver-lean-startup-conference">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-4357840974626325938?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-85998883285686489342011-03-03T11:25:00.001-08:002011-03-03T11:25:51.168-08:00Places to eat in Vancouver: Campagnolo<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 24px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Can I please gush about this place?</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Let me set the stage, it is a Sunday night and as usual there is always people working at the office. By the time 8′clock came around, we realized well we are pretty hungry from working hard all day. We were split between Chambar and Bao Bei but after a bit of negotiation, we decided on Bao Bei. John (yes the REAL John Chow), Jaeny and Kevin (a friend from Winnipeg) left first to Bao Bei before we catch up to them. Well within a good 10 minutes, got 2 tweets that says the place is closed so we are heading to Campagnolo. Campagnolo?!? Where the heck is that and what kind of food do they serve? I somehow confused Campagnolo with some sort of social club so I had second thoughts about going but it wouldn’t be very nice to leave friends waiting so what the heck.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> I drive by Main Street by Terminal more than 10 times a week to get from Commercial Drive to The Network Hub but I have never noticed Campagnolo, either that or I get incredibly distracted by its more flamboyant neighbors – Balmoral Hotel and Ivanhoe Hotel. The exterior of the restaurant is very subtle, the signage is downright polite compared to the ginormous red Ivanhoe Hotel signage I like to call a billboard.  Once I opened the door, I was floored how open but yet warm and inviting the Campagnolo is. <img title="Places to eat in Vancouver: Campagnolo" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/02/IMG-20110220-00048.gif" height="457" alt="IMG 20110220 00048 Places to eat in Vancouver: Campagnolo" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;" /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="Places to eat in Vancouver: Campagnolo" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/02/IMG-20110220-00049.gif" height="457" alt="IMG 20110220 00049 Places to eat in Vancouver: Campagnolo" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;" /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> While we were getting settled in, I took a quick look at their take-home menu instead of in-restaurant menu and my mouth dropped to the floor.  Conde Nast Traveller Magazine named  Campagnolo as one of the 50 Hottest New Restaurants in the World, Vancouver Magazine Award in 2010 named Campagnolo gold in Best New Restaurant, Silver in Best New Design and Silver in Casual Italian.  Now I am excited but I’m trying to not expect too much.  I’ve been to a few “award-winning” restaurants that definitely let me down.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> John was selling to us the Polderside Chicken because Polderside Farms raise their poultry in low density, stress-free environment and they are fed a natural diet of grains and vegetables.   John stood behind the Polderside Chicken so strongly that half of our party ordered chicken, I ordered Linguine, Kevin ordered Slopping Hill Pork and Jaeny ordered a vegetarian pizza.  I figured since half of the table got chicken, I might as well try something else and take a nib from others.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> The appetizers came out first, the highlight of the appetizers was the Seared Octopus which was AMAZING!!! I couldn’t control my fork, it kept visiting my neighbor’s plate and they were nice enough to let me keep picking at the Seared Octopus I wish I had more adjectives in my food vocabulary to describe the experience but goodness, it was soooooooo good!  My appetizer was a Peasant Chicken Soup and it was such a comforting and hearty soup.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="Places to eat in Vancouver: Campagnolo" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/02/IMG-20110220-00052.gif" height="457" alt="IMG 20110220 00052 Places to eat in Vancouver: Campagnolo" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;" /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="Places to eat in Vancouver: Campagnolo" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/02/IMG-20110220-00051.gif" height="457" alt="IMG 20110220 00051 Places to eat in Vancouver: Campagnolo" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;" /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> I am so excited for my main course because the appetizers definitely set the tone of what is to come – oodles of deliciousness!!! And I wasn’t disappointed, the Polderside Chicken was sooo tender and so juicy at the same time.  My Linguini was simple but oh my goodness probably the best Linguini I have ever had so far!</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="Places to eat in Vancouver: Campagnolo" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/02/IMG-20110220-00055.gif" height="457" alt="IMG 20110220 00055 Places to eat in Vancouver: Campagnolo" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;" /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/02/IMG-20110220-00056.gif" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"><img title="Places to eat in Vancouver: Campagnolo" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/02/IMG-20110220-00056.gif" height="457" alt="IMG 20110220 00056 Places to eat in Vancouver: Campagnolo" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;" /></a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> I wanted more and was very curious about how amazing this place is.  A lot of restaurants shine for their food and fall flat when it comes to dessert or vice versa.  Of course when the waitress said they have a dessert sampler – I was sold.   The appetizers were amazing, the main courses were divine but the desserts really put it over the top.   In the sampler is a salted caramel dessert wrapped in waxy parchment like an old school taffy candy and let me just tell you, I had to reordered for a couple more.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="Places to eat in Vancouver: Campagnolo" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/02/IMG-20110220-00059.gif" height="457" alt="IMG 20110220 00059 Places to eat in Vancouver: Campagnolo" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;" /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="Places to eat in Vancouver: Campagnolo" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/02/IMG-20110220-00060.gif" height="457" alt="IMG 20110220 00060 Places to eat in Vancouver: Campagnolo" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;" /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Here is the kicker my bill after ordering:  a cranberry juice, one large hearty chunky and rustic Peasant Chicken Soup, one Linguini and a generous dessert sample with a reordering of the salted caramel dessert was well under $40!!!!  Seriously! I’ve paid more eating at regular chain restaurants without the same quality of service or food.</p> </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/places-to-eat-in-vancouver-campagnolo">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-8599888328568648934?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-43040788751368404572011-03-03T11:13:00.001-08:002011-03-03T11:13:43.890-08:00Tool Tuesdays: How not to forget ever again… well almost never<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 24px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Have you ever read an email or suddenly remember someone’s name but you don’t know how you know them?  You search your emails but if you are like me, sometimes your emails provide more confusions than clarity, especially if your email thread is a continuation of something discussed in person.  I host a monthly networking event for Vancouver Entrepreneurs with between 100-160 people attending each events on top of the numerous events I attend monthly, it is very difficult to remember every one I cross path with.   But I believe very strongly in making an effort to remember people’s name, what they do, how we met, where they meet and any other information they were kind enough to share with me.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Before it was writing notes behind every one’s business cards the specifics of the meeting and whatever I think is important for me to remember about the encounter.  NOW, Greplin is in my life.  Greplin is my very own social search engine.  No I’m serious, my very own because it is linked to my Google Apps Mail, Google Apps Calendar, Google Apps Docs, Facebook, LinkedIn, Gmail, Twitter with BaseCamp, Google Reader, Salesforce are coming soon.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Right now, Greplin has indexed about 273, 258 documents that I have produced in term of emails, status updates and calendar entry. All you have to do is type in a name, a place or bits of information that you can remember in the search bar.   You can filter the information to files, places, events, messages, or narrow down to the channel of communication – gmail, facebook, linkedin, etc.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="Greplin" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/02/greplin.gif" height="678" alt="greplin Tool Tuesdays: How not to forget ever again… well almost never" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: black; border-right-color: black; border-bottom-color: black; border-left-color: black;" /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> The powerful thing about Greplin is that it also fills in the gap of information about the person, place and events with also search engine results – this is where all the search engines want to go except they can’t because we value our privacy too much to give it up.  If you feel uneasy about what Greplin will do with your data – read their simplified <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/goto/https://www.greplin.com/privacy" title="Greplin" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">privacy policy</a>.  I went through it and I feel very comfortable allowing Greplin to  index my information but that’s me, you have to do your due diligence.   It has helped me connect the dot and helped me put the best foot forward in the next meeting.   I was one of the fortunate few that got to be an beta tester last year but since February 17, 2011.  It is now open to everyone.   Give it a try after doing your own due dilligence and I hope it will help you too!</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> If you have used Greplin, let me know about your experience with it.  Otherwise, leave any questions or suggestions you have in the comment section, thanks!</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <em style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal; font-style: italic;">Note: These are tools I have used for a substantial amount of time (&gt; 2 wks) and have found useful for me, this is not a paid post and paid is defined as money, swags, free dinner, t-shirts, pens, free coffee, gift certificate… absolutely nothing!</em></p> </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/tool-tuesdays-how-not-to-forget-ever-again-we">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-4304078875136840457?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-14708947566981036652011-03-03T10:55:00.001-08:002011-03-03T10:55:57.593-08:00Strange Findings: Breakup Notifier<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 24px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> During my late night reading, I came across the Breakup Notifier – a Facebook app that allows you to follow the friends you’re interested in who are in a relationship and an email will be sent to your email to notify you whenever there is a relationship update.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> I’m guessing the big sell here is if you interesting someone, you can follow their relationship updates in hope when they update their status to single you will conveniently lend a listening ear.  Kind of creepy but I’m surprise it took that long for this to come out because wasn’t it the relationship status update and profile picture that really help take Facebook to another level?  Although I do wonder how long it will take for Facebook to shut them down because I am certain this surely violates the terms of use that Facebook has set out.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="Facebook Breakup Notfier" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/02/Untitled-1.gif" height="501" alt="Untitled 1 Strange Findings: Breakup Notifier" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 1px; border-right-width: 1px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-width: 1px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal; border-top-style: solid; border-right-style: solid; border-bottom-style: solid; border-left-style: solid; border-top-color: black; border-right-color: black; border-bottom-color: black; border-left-color: black;" /></p> </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/strange-findings-breakup-notifier">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-1470894756698103665?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-64669504571053452312011-03-03T10:50:00.001-08:002011-03-03T10:50:00.430-08:00Things to do in Vancouver: Vancouver Flea Market<div class='posterous_autopost'><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 24px;">One of my favorite things to do on a nice sunny day is to grab a nice Chai Latte and stroll from Commercial Drive to Main Street. Somehow I usually end up at Vancouver Flea Market, I love this place because it is one of the few places you can find amazing vintage jewelery and little knick knacks. One of my goals is to reduce consumptions and reduce waste. I try my best to find knick knacks and jewelery to rework at the Flea Market before I purchase brand new.</span><br /> <div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 24px;"> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Vancouver Flea Market is only open on the weekends from 9-5 and it is always packed whenever I go there. There are always amazing goodies to be had. You have to roll up your sleeves, pick through the piles of goodies and find your treasure.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="Things to do Vancouver - Vancouver Flea Market" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/02/IMG-20110219-00043.jpg" height="384" alt="IMG 20110219 00043 Things to do in Vancouver: Vancouver Flea Market" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;" /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> If you are a vintage treasure hunter, this is an amazing place to be. Check out these vintage cameras! The great thing about this place is you can negotiate – don’t low ball, know when to walk away and negotiate respectfully.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="Things to do Vancouver - Vancouver Flea Market" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/02/IMG-20110219-00042.jpg" height="384" alt="IMG 20110219 00042 Things to do in Vancouver: Vancouver Flea Market" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;" /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Look at the jewelery selections that can be had and reworked!!!</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <img title="Things to do Vancouver - Vancouver Flea Market" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/files/2011/02/IMG-20110219-00041.jpg" height="384" alt="IMG 20110219 00041 Things to do in Vancouver: Vancouver Flea Market" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;" /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> I hope you take a day over the weekend and visit Vancouver Flea Market to find goodies or if you have goodies hanging in your house, you can rent a booth for only $30 a day!  There is over 30 000 square foot with 365 tables and customer count of approximately 4000 person a weekend so come on down.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/goto/http://www.vancouverfleamarket.com/" title="Things to do in Vancouver - Vancouver Flea Market" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">http://www.vancouverfleamarket.com/</a></p> </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/things-to-do-in-vancouver-vancouver-flea-mark">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-6466950457105345231?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-70217516930625780972011-03-03T10:41:00.001-08:002011-03-03T10:41:43.240-08:00The NOW Revolution Event<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 24px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> Unwinding the cable Jay Baer hits the stage and utters his first words of the night “This is so very Mick Jagger”. Instantly he has my attention. Let me take a step back and give you some background information. I attended The NOW Revolution event put on by Jason Baker, Teri Conrad from Red Barn Group and Kemp Edmonds, hosting Mr. Jay Baer as well as a local panel at Caprice, February 15<sup style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 0.8em; vertical-align: top; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.66em;">th</sup>.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> I have to admit; I have never read Jay’s blog or his book and honestly didn’t know who he was before the event. After you go to so many events they all tend to run together. This on the other hand was an exception! The venue Caprice Nightclub on Granville Street is great for larger speaking events, sound quality was good, visual effects were easy to see, the chairs were even comfortable. These guys knew what they were doing with the set-up! Now back to Jay.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> He was funny and witty with a very powerful message including visuals, excellent case studies and some bold quotes, for example “If you don’t love social media, you suck at social media” and “Hire for passion not for resume”. My favorite case studio is about a hotel with the most hilarious bad review. You will have to get the book for the full details.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> The part of the message that got my attention as a Public Relations specialist is that twitter is a tool and NOT a strategy, I wholeheartedly agree! He conveyed the importance of building a culture within your business and how connecting with your audience is the key to successful business practices. Stressing the importance of brand management through answering your public as well as taking accountability through apologizing and he delivered his message with clarity and humor.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> I am really excited to read the book that came with our ticket that night, another really solid move by this planning committee to learn more about the NOW Revolution. It was refreshing to hear someone eloquently speak on using the tools as part of building brand awareness and sharing culture and not just pump you with scores and numbers.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> After Jay finished his portion there was a break and then the panel had a turn to add value. Kemp Edmonds did a really fantastic job of keeping his 4 panel members engaged and giving them questions that allowed them to showcase their particular skills. My two favorite tips came from Erin Gerrity “Take a step back and do an assessment of the big picture” and Shane Gibson “Social Media is not a video game”. There were questions from the audience and some good banter. All in all it was well done!</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> I would recommend events planned by this committee in the future as well as taking the time to check out Jay online (which I now do) at <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/goto/http://www.convinceandconvert.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;">http://www.convinceandconvert.com/</a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1.5em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"> <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver/about/2-revision-6/" rel="attachment wp-att-2917" target="_blank" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;"><img title="The NOW Revolution Event" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2011/02/jason-and-jay-baer-300x254.jpg" height="254" alt="jason and jay baer 300x254 The NOW Revolution Event" width="300" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: middle; background-color: transparent; text-decoration: none; font-weight: normal;" /></a></p> </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/the-now-revolution-event">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-7021751693062578097?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-76154836153101085092011-01-14T10:06:00.001-08:002011-01-14T10:06:31.841-08:00Hungry Girl’s Guide: Little Ongpin<div class='posterous_autopost'> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/hungry-girls-guide-little-ongpin">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-7615483615310108509?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-11721154808842183072011-01-14T10:01:00.001-08:002011-01-14T10:01:45.737-08:00Tips For Planning An Event To Promote Your Brand<div class='posterous_autopost'> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/tips-for-planning-an-event-to-promote-your-br">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-1172115480884218307?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-58719193773702563222011-01-14T09:55:00.001-08:002011-01-14T09:55:37.982-08:00ABL’s ARTFELT AFFAIR – The Sleeper Event Of The Season!<div class='posterous_autopost'> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/abls-artfelt-affair-the-sleeper-event-of-the">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-5871919377370256322?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-6695407794617190212011-01-14T09:42:00.001-08:002011-01-14T09:42:14.718-08:00Recent FAQ On Our Virtual Office Services<div class='posterous_autopost'> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/recent-faq-on-our-virtual-office-services">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-669540779461719021?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-12003237846687205452011-01-13T12:21:00.001-08:002011-01-13T12:21:32.748-08:00Virtual Office For Savvy Entrepreneurs<div class='posterous_autopost'> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/virtual-office-for-savvy-entrepreneurs">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-1200323784668720545?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-11095500385443382912010-11-29T13:20:00.001-08:002010-11-29T13:20:34.926-08:00The Order Of Importance<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> Today I was in a super gloomy mood. The reason is I broke up with my boyfriend yesterday because of his ex-girlfriend.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> To take my mind off things, I went to <a href="http://winkbeautylounge.com/" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">Wink Beauty Lounge</a> to attend <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Vancouver-BC/Wink-Beauty-Lounge/58556008021?ref=ts&amp;v=wall#!/event.php?eid=159338630758045&amp;index=1" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">Wink Beauty Lounge Friends and Family Night</a>. Everything was so cute!!! The main colors at the shop are white and pink. Displayed were various cosmetics and jewellery! There was also finger food going around: bite-sized hamburgers, cupcakes and more! It was too pretty to eat but of course I ate it! Yummy!</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Wink Beauty Lounge also gave out complimentary make-up, nail art decorations, and hair styling services. One of the hair stylist made my hair gorgeous and curly. Since Wink specializes in eyelashes, they were also applying false lashes on everyone!  Of course I had to try it. After the hair and eyelashes, I felt like an actress or a princess so dolled up!</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">At the end of the night, I left with bronze eye shadow and some blush. I can’t wait to use them tomorrow! The staff was very kind and energetic. Their attitude cheered me up, I almost forgot about the boyfriend!</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Today I realized two important things-At first, I should not to rely on a boyfriend especially accommodation. The second, the object I’m most interested in is not boyfriend but myself!!</p> </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/the-order-of-importance">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-1109550038544338291?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-20097081690104695832010-11-29T13:16:00.001-08:002010-11-29T13:16:00.209-08:00Vancouver Street Vendors<div class='posterous_autopost'><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">Have you ever wanted to try all the different street vendors in one day? Today, Minna, Yvonne and I gave ourselves a tour around downtown Vancouver to at the various street vendors. We picked some stands and headed towards the drool-worthy aroma!</span><br /> <div style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><div style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); padding-top: 0.6em; padding-right: 0.6em; padding-bottom: 0.6em; padding-left: 0.6em; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; font-family: Times New Roman; line-height: normal; font-size: medium;"> <ul style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(36, 28, 15); font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> <li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 1px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(36, 28, 15);"> <a href="http://www.liciousliving.com/main/" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">Licious</a></li> </ul><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> Located on Granville at West Georgia.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> The company has its own <a href="http://www.liciousliving.com/main/about/the-philosophy" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">philosophy</a> – healthy living, liciously easy. They have other services like meal delivery and suggesting fitness and diet programs.  They work closely with their nutritionists to create meals, snacks and beverages.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> At the stand, salads, sandwiches and smoothies were available. And they serve from 8am-6pm Monday to Friday! The salesperson is so energetic and it definitely rubbed off on her customers!</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> We ordered the “Very Berry smoothie” ($5.09+tax).  She took it straight from the fridge; already prepared (this didn’t make it seem as fresh!). It was strong in the yogurt taste and it had a berry seed texture.</p><ul style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(36, 28, 15); font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> <li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 1px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(36, 28, 15);"> Kimono Koi  Crepe</li></ul><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> Located on West Georgia at Granville.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> The stands use lots of cute pink color! We ate “Tuna eggs crepe” ($6.75). It’s like a tuna egg sandwich in thin and soft wrap. Surprisingly they put seaweed on the crepe! I’ve never seen it in Japan, so this was very interesting! I liked the texture – soft with a bit of crunch from the lettuce. When you want to eat something different from a pizza or hamburger for lunch, it’s a great choice!</p> <ul style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(36, 28, 15); font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> <li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 1px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(36, 28, 15);"> <a href="http://www.chineseskewerking.ca/" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">Chinese Skewer King</a></li> </ul><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> Located on Burrard at West  Hastings.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> There are 4 different types of skewers: Pork, Lamb, Tofu, Vegetables (Each $2.5). We all ordered the pork skewer with spices. After 5 minutes, it smelt delicious! It was soft but well cooked with the pork capturing all the flavours. If you come to this stand on your lunch break, watch out, the smell will have you drooling!</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> They also sell toasted bread ($1.00) and combos are also available from $5.50!</p><ul style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(36, 28, 15); font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> <li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 1px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(36, 28, 15);"> Dim Sum Express</li></ul><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> Located on Howe and north of Cordova.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> We ate shrimp dumplings ($3.50, 4pcs) and “Xiao Long Bao” – pork dumplings ($3.50, 5pcs). The stand is noticeably larger than others – a big station wagon with a whole kitchen. The complimentary hot sauce is pretty intense. So, for people who can’t eat anything spicy, like Yvonne, I recommend that you stay away from it! My favourite was the “Xiao Long Bao”. When you bite into it, watch out the soup that’s inside! It’s delicious but don’t get it on yourself!</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> Combos were also available.</p><ul style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 1em; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-color: rgb(36, 28, 15); font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> <li style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 1px; border-top-style: solid; border-top-color: rgb(36, 28, 15);"> <a href="http://www.japadog.com/en/" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">Japadog</a></li> </ul><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> We ate Japadog at a stand in front of Waterfront station.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> Do you know the last year’s top 3 japadogs? Spicy Cheese Terimayo,  Oroshi,  and Okonomi.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> The president,Tamura Noriki had a job in Japan and after coming to Vancouver, he launched  Japadog in 2005. Now they have a store (530 Robson St) and 3 stands (Burrad and Smithe St, Burrard and Pender St, in front of Waterfront Station).</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> Today we ordered “Ebichili”($ 6.75). It had a shrimp sausage that was sprinkled with baby shrimp. The baby shrimp color was so vivid, it made me even more hungry!</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> We don’t have Japadog in Japan so, to me, it’s one of Vancouver’s specialties. It was so good, I wanted to try all different Japadogs!</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> I love street vendor food and today I got to try different ones around Downtown Vancouver. It was like my taste buds were traveling to different countries!</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> I have found a new interest. Where should I go and what should I eat next time …</p><p></p></div><p></p></div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/vancouver-street-vendors">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-2009708169010469583?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-65329824186227649852010-11-18T11:54:00.001-08:002010-11-18T11:54:29.815-08:00November Entrepreneur Meetup!<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <strong style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15);">November 18(Thu) 7:00PM</strong></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <strong style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15);">Location: 422 Richards Street 3rd floor Vancouver, BC V6B 2Z3  </strong></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <strong style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15);"><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/" title="The Network Hub" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">The Network Hub</a> (<a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca" target="_blank">www.thenetworkhub.ca</a>)</strong></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Where has the year gone? We are nearing the end of 2010 and this will be the last Vancouver Entrepreneur Meetup of the year! We are going out on a bang with a topic that everyone has been asking for – generating more traffic to your website! I hope to see you all at this last Vancouver Entrepreneur Meetup of the year!!!</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">For many years, a lot of questions have been raised about Search Engine Marketing – How do I get listed on the 1st page of Google? How can I get more targeted traffic to my website? What can I do to increase lead conversion on my website? What is this local marketing or targeted local online marketing?</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">It is all very dizzying to keep up and get going for entrepreneurs and small business owners. This month we are fortunate to have a leading expert in Search Marketing who will be giving practical tips that you can take and use right away. No lingo, no theory – just useful and practical tips that help you see the impact right away.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Search Marketing is very important for entrepreneurs – it’s an effective method for driving highly targeted visitors to your website. Without search marketing, your website and online store is buried deep in the thousands of results that a search engine produces.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">This month, our guest speaker is <a href="http://www.yaletownseo.ca/" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">Adrian Eden</a>. Adrian has experienced a great deal of success in increasing visibility and profitability of his clients thanks to his ability to consistently deliver exceptional results.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Adrian, borned and raised in Salmon Arm is a small town boy who moved to Vancouver after many years in Costa Rica, is the founder of <a href="http://www.yaletownseo.ca/" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">YaletownSEO.ca</a> – an online search marketing company. He spent many years holding key marketing roles in Fiver Media and Riptown Media, executing results for the Bodog Brand. Right now, Adrian is one of the key people behind the Search Marketing and Social Media Strategy for Coleman Heating and Air Conditioning.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">If you want to get practical tips to increase traffic to your website, increase engagement online and more importantly, increasing your online profitability – make sure you RSVP to hear <a href="http://www.yaletownseo.ca/" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">Adrian Eden</a>speak!<br /> The event is FREE but we do appreciate a bottle of wine to share with everyone.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> Sign Up!</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><a href="http://www.meetup.com/vancouver-entrepreneurs-startup-vancouver-office-space/calendar/15383841/?from=list&amp;offset=0" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">http://www.meetup.com/vancouver-entrepreneurs-startup-vancouver-office-space/calendar/15383841/?from=list&amp;offset=0</a></p> </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/november-entrepreneur-meetup">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-6532982418622764985?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-47098818785600244842010-11-18T11:47:00.001-08:002010-11-18T11:47:22.281-08:00October Entrepreneur Meetup!<div class='posterous_autopost'><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-events/october-entrepreneur-meetup-social-media-grow-business/attachment/1808237721/" rel="attachment wp-att-2730" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space October Entrepreneur Meetup! " src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/10/1808237721.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space 1808237721 October Entrepreneur Meetup! " width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: both; float: none; display: block;" /></a></span><div style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">October Entrepreneur Meetup!  “Can social media help grow your business?”</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">On October 21, <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/" title="The Network Hub" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">The Network Hub</a> held the Vancouver Entrepreneur Meetup at the office (422 Richards Street, Vancouver).</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> We had a guest speaker Yu-kai Chou and over 150 people in attendance. Yu-kai is a Serial Entrepreneur and Social Media Advisor with over 5 years of adventures in the high tech startup world. He is the Founder and CEO of Viralogy Inc., a Social Personalization and Analytics Platform for eCommerce sites. Yu-kai’s team has also run many successful social media campaigns for LG, Levi’s, Los Angeles Lakers, Activision and more.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">He spoke about the importance of social media. When he asked the audience if they were using social media, almost everyone raised their hand. Social media is one of biggest marketing tools and strategies out there. So, the audience listened carefully and asked lots of questions.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">The meetup was packed with energetic people! There were lots of different business ideas being discussed. I think new connections and resources for business were made!  </p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">I enjoyed meeting, chatting, and wine-ing with cheerful and dedicated people. In addition, Goldies Pizza supplied us with a few tasty pizzas and those were gone instantly! And thank you to Lonsdale Event Rentals for sponsoring us with beautiful glasses and tables!</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">  The Network Hub is planning a bigger meetup in early December. Don’t miss out!</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-events/october-entrepreneur-meetup-social-media-grow-business/attachment/1808453361/" rel="attachment wp-att-2729" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space October Entrepreneur Meetup! " src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/10/1808453361-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space 1808453361 150x150 October Entrepreneur Meetup! " width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial;" /></a><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-events/october-entrepreneur-meetup-social-media-grow-business/attachment/1808185981/" rel="attachment wp-att-2728" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space October Entrepreneur Meetup! " src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/10/1808185981-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space 1808185981 150x150 October Entrepreneur Meetup! " width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial;" /></a></p> </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/october-entrepreneur-meetup">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-4709881878560024484?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-65125800816634371292010-11-18T11:38:00.001-08:002010-11-18T11:38:51.363-08:00Salmon Rush-Hour<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/uncategorized/salmon-rushhour/attachment/p1010670/" rel="attachment wp-att-2721" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Salmon rush hour " src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/10/P1010670-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P1010670 150x150 Salmon rush hour " width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: both; float: none; display: block;" /></a><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/uncategorized/salmon-rushhour/attachment/p1010677/" rel="attachment wp-att-2722" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"></a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">When a salmon jumped, I unconsciously said “Go!”</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> Yesterday, I went to Capilano River hatchery. The facility is operated by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans to protect important and rare fish species.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> After seeing the salmon exhibition and reading about the facility, I went to see the fish ladder. Amazingly, salmons jumped up the ladders against the rapid stream. The ladders were almost the same length as their body! If I were a salmon, I would need to jump about 160cm (my height). And even though they were able to get over, the next step was packed with other salmon – it was like a crowded Skytrain at rush-hour. So, lots of salmon slipped down to the previous step due to the rapid stream. The numbers of salmon going down were much more than ones going up. After all that jumping and dropping, they had injuries; I could see it in the meat. I thought to myself, if I were a salmon, “After the first jump, don’t swim to the surface. There is no space. At first, I need to take a rest and try the next ladder after recovering!”</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">I love salmon and ikura so much! However, today I witnessed a page of their life. So I won’t eat them…maybe for one week.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/uncategorized/salmon-rushhour/attachment/p1010677/" rel="attachment wp-att-2722" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Salmon rush hour " src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/10/P1010677-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P1010677 150x150 Salmon rush hour " width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial;" /></a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><strong style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15);">Capilano River Hatchery</strong></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><a href="http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/sep-pmvs/projects-projets/capilano/capilano-eng.htm" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/sep-pmvs/projects-projets/capilano/capilano-eng.htm</a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Best Times</p><table border="0"> <tr><td>Chinook Adults</td><td>October – November</td></tr><tr><td>Coho Adults</td><td>June – November</td></tr><tr><td>Steelhead Adults</td><td> March – April</td></tr><tr><td>Coho Juveniles</td><td>All Year</td></tr><tr><td>Chinook Juveniles</td><td>March – May</td></tr></table><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <strong style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15);"> </strong></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <strong style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15);">There is no charge!</strong></p></div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/salmon-rush-hour">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-6512580081663437129?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-64905282228653344762010-11-18T11:34:00.001-08:002010-11-18T11:34:25.682-08:00An Arresting Experience<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/arresting-experience-2/attachment/p1010648-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-2709" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space An arresting experience" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/10/P10106481-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P10106481 150x150 An arresting experience" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: both; float: none; display: block;" /></a><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/arresting-experience-2/attachment/p1010642-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-2707" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"></a><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/arresting-experience-2/attachment/p1010643-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-2708" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"></a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">No, I didn’t run into any trouble. It’s just an exhibition at The <a href="http://www.vancouverpolicemuseum.ca/index.htm" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">Vancouver Police Museum</a>. It’s a small museum but it collects, preserves and interprets the history of the Vancouver Police Department. Visitors can learn how to detect counterfeit bills and other crime related topics- like forensic entomology to determine the time of death from the flies’ growing speed. I also saw an autopsy room with many specimens. On top of that, I learned how to mark cards for gambling. I’ll try it when I meet with my sister!</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">They also have various public programs- “Halloween at the Police Museum”-“An Evening at the Morgue” and “Haunted Trolley Tours”. Or if you have small children, you can have “Birthday Parties at the Museum (for ages 4-12)”.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">It will be an arresting experience!</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/arresting-experience-2/attachment/p1010643-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-2708" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space An arresting experience" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/10/P10106431-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P10106431 150x150 An arresting experience" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial;" /></a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><strong style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15);">Hours</strong></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Monday – Saturday<br />9:00 AM – 5:00 PM<br />Closed Sundays and Statutory Holidays</p> <h2 style="font-size: 1.4em; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; font-weight: 800; font-style: normal; line-height: 1em; color: rgb(36, 28, 15);"> Admission</h2><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Adults: $7.00<br />Seniors and Students: $5.00<br /> Family: $20.00 (two adults, two youth under 17)<br />Children under 6: Free<br />Historical Society Members: Free</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/arresting-experience-2/attachment/p1010642-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-2707" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space An arresting experience" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/10/P10106421-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P10106421 150x150 An arresting experience" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial;" /></a></p> </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/an-arresting-experience">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-6490528222865334476?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-72628530908410718592010-11-17T13:42:00.001-08:002010-11-17T13:42:46.491-08:00Beautiful Yaletown<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/beautiful-yaletown/attachment/p1010631/" rel="attachment wp-att-2644" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Beautiful Yaletown" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/10/P1010631-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P1010631 150x150 Beautiful Yaletown" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: both; float: none; display: block;" /></a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">My favourite singer/actor, Akihiro Miwa, said “Humans are made up of body and mind. Now we can easily buy enough food or nutritional supplements. So, do you know what the food for our mind is? It is culture – beautiful music, art or scenery can make our mind calm and stable.”</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Today I visited Yaletown – formerly a heavy industrial area dominated by warehouses and rail yards but since Expo’86, it has been transformed into an attractive urban area.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/beautiful-yaletown/attachment/p1010622/" rel="attachment wp-att-2648" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Beautiful Yaletown" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/10/P1010622-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P1010622 150x150 Beautiful Yaletown" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial;" /></a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">At <a href="http://www.roundhouse.ca/" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">Roundhouse Community Arts &amp; Recreation Centre</a>, I said hello to Engine 374- the CPR Engine that pulled the first transcontinental train into the city. After a quick visit to Roundhouse, I walked along the seawall. It was calming and the water was so clear, I could see to the bottom.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/beautiful-yaletown/attachment/p1010625/" rel="attachment wp-att-2647" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Beautiful Yaletown" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/10/P1010625-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P1010625 150x150 Beautiful Yaletown" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial;" /></a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">I kept walking and I got into lovely interior shop with gorgeous chandeliers, glittered tableware and European furniture. It was like walking into a romantic honeymoon suite! I thought, what do I need to change in my room in order to be like this shop? … Unfortunately, everything was different. I needed to make a huge effort to get a beautiful room like theirs. Of course, I can’t buy this beautiful furniture easily but this furniture inspired me. I’m going to clean up my room and work at it. And I’m coming back this shop in Yaletown! </p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">  <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/beautiful-yaletown/attachment/p1010628/" rel="attachment wp-att-2652" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Beautiful Yaletown" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/10/P1010628-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P1010628 150x150 Beautiful Yaletown" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial;" /></a><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/beautiful-yaletown/attachment/p1010632/" rel="attachment wp-att-2645" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"></a><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/beautiful-yaletown/attachment/p1010628/" rel="attachment wp-att-2652" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"></a></p> <p /></div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/beautiful-yaletown">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-7262853090841071859?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-12334385099298527192010-11-17T13:32:00.001-08:002010-11-17T13:32:39.029-08:00Small Business BC<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/small-business-bc-2/attachment/p1010541-4/" rel="attachment wp-att-2631" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Small Business BC" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/10/P10105412-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P10105412 150x150 Small Business BC" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: both; float: none; display: block;" /></a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">There was never a business figure around me. So, I had in mind that applying at a company or working for the public was the only way to go. I always thought of business women and businessmen as strong, powerful individuals. They have to study tax law, municipal licensing requirements, think about insurance and accounting, marketing plans and publicity, etc. These issues put me in confusion!</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">However, I recently heard that my cousin started her own business. She is 4 years older than me and now she has her own dog grooming shop. To me, she was that strong, powerful businesswoman! She is very kind and loves running her business. She’s one of my role models. I knew that she planned this for a while and she did her research. She’s always busy but she looks happier than ever!</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Learning is always interesting. Starting a new experience is a challenging treasure in life and we can have good opportunity to study about starting business at <a href="http://www.smallbusinessbc.ca/" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">Small Business BC</a> .</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">There are many seminars, for example“Start Smart- Resources and Registrations”- it covers basic small business start-up information and is designated for the client in the thinking stage of starting a business.</p> <table border="1" width="391"><tr><td valign="top">Wednesday, October 6<sup>th</sup> , 2010-9:00am-12:00pm</td></tr><tr><td valign="top">Tuesday, October 19<sup>th</sup>, 2010-5:00pm-8:00pm</td> </tr><tr><td valign="top">Tuesday, November 9<sup>th</sup>, 2010-1:00pm-4:00pm</td></tr><tr><td valign="top">Thursday, December 2<sup>nd </sup>,2010-9:00pm-12:00pm</td></tr></table><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> Cost: $49.00 plus taxes</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">In addition, there is “Young Entrepreneurship Day-September”. It is a seminar for those between 18 and 35 and interested in business planning and financing.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">To register:  <a href="http://www.smallbusinessbc.ca/seminars" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">http://www.smallbusinessbc.ca/seminars</a> or visit your local office.</p> </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/small-business-bc">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-1233438509929852719?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-58172571846473535552010-11-17T13:25:00.001-08:002010-11-17T13:25:46.413-08:00Korean Pork BBQ<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/korean-pork-bbq/attachment/31740_116145128426318_100000924945303_84174_6566782_n1/" rel="attachment wp-att-2619" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Korean Pork BBQ" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/10/31740_116145128426318_100000924945303_84174_6566782_n1-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space 31740 116145128426318 100000924945303 84174 6566782 n1 150x150 Korean Pork BBQ" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: both; float: none; display: block;" /></a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">I can’t stop talking about how amazing Korean pork BBQ is. I’ve been eating it for the past few weekends at Westender Korean Restaurant (854 Denman St.). And the flavours deepen my love for Korean BBQ every time!  When I smell it, I keep wanting more even if I’m not hungry.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">With Korean BBQ, you cook the meat yourself on the grill that’s on the table. The food isn’t as greasy as other places because you use a sloped hot plate so the excess oil is drained away. Another plus is the Korean side dishes – Kimchi, spicy soup, two kinds of salads, lettuce with mayonnaise, potato, garlic, peppers and some lettuce leaves to wrap the pork. I can finish two bowls of rice with only these side dishes! Whenever I eat there, I always make different flavours using the side dishes, so it’s always a new flavour and I get my intake of vegetables while I’m at it.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">In the restaurant, you can watch Korean music videos. Their music groups on TV are always so fit. I always think “I’m very envious of her style. However, if I want to be like her, I may need to stop eating but I can’t stop eating Korean BBQ!”</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">I’m always talking about it so one of my Korean friends had a Korean BBQ party at her place. And she recommended a Korean grocery store – KIM’S Mart (519 E Broadway). You can get every kind of BBQ ingredients! I want this market in next to my room!</p> </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/korean-pork-bbq">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-5817257184647353555?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-43112660434377775662010-11-17T13:21:00.001-08:002010-11-17T13:21:22.988-08:00What Does A CEO Do?<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <img title="What does a CEO do?" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/images-1.jpg" height="198" alt="vancouver office space images 1 What does a CEO do? " width="255" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: both; float: none; display: block;" />I have often pondered this early in my university years. In one of my business classes the professor pulled out the graph to demonstrate the hierarchy and with it role descriptions were so long I could hardly understand.  That is also one of the reasons why when we started <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/" title="The Network Hub" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">The Network Hub</a> our business cards did not bear any titles. We figured since we didn’t know what they really mean or what it all entail – we didn’t bother with it.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Fred Wilson a respected investor wrote a great simple post on “What a CEO does” and I had to make sure I share it because I’m not even certain all CEOs know what their job entails.</p> <blockquote style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 15px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 15px; font-style: italic; font-size: 1.8em; line-height: 1em; font-weight: 200; background-color: rgb(36, 28, 15); color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">A CEO does only three things. Sets the overall vision and strategy of the company and communicates it to all stakeholders. Recruits, hires, and retains the very best talent for the company. Makes sure there is always enough cash in the bank.</p> </blockquote><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Read the full entry here, <span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><a href="http://vator.tv/news/2010-08-31-what-a-ceo-does?utm_source=Arkayne.com&amp;utm_medium=Plugin&amp;utm_campaign=Vator%20News" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">“What a CEO does”</a></span></p></div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/what-does-a-ceo-do">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-4311266043437777566?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-10500952411859135932010-11-17T13:10:00.001-08:002010-11-17T13:10:36.449-08:00Stage Earth<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-events/stage-earth/attachment/p1010616/" rel="attachment wp-att-2595" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Stage Earth" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/P1010616-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P1010616 150x150 Stage Earth" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: both; float: none; display: block;" /></a><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-events/stage-earth/attachment/p1010585/" rel="attachment wp-att-2593" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Stage Earth" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/P1010585-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P1010585 150x150 Stage Earth" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: both; float: none; display: block;" /></a><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-events/stage-earth/attachment/p1010586/" rel="attachment wp-att-2594" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"></a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Yesterday I watched ‘Stage Earth’ at the Nikkei Place in Burnaby. It’s a performance by psychiatrist Dr. Norihiko Kuwayama where he shares his experience as a volunteer medical doctor in developing countries and in conflict areas. He is striving to connect with children worldwide through visuals and music. Over 2,000 performances have been held since its launch in January 1996 in Japan. This concert was at the high school in North Delta too this year.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Through his thoughtful narration and slideshow accompanied with original songs, he shared his experience. I was impressed with his courage and modest attitude. I knew these disasters happened but I couldn’t think about people who live on the site like him.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">He had many stories to tell but the most impressive one for me was when he was in Palestine. He visited Rafah in the Gaza in January 2009 in the midst of air raids. Right after entering Gaza through border control, a bomb blasted close by, but he managed to enter Rafah and started working at the emergency at a city hospital. At that time, his Palestinian friend commented, “What we most fear is not bombing, but to feel despair that we have been abandoned by all the people in the world.”</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">At the end of the performance, an audience member asked him a question. “You have a special skill as a doctor. However, I’m not a doctor; I don’t have them. What can I do for people?”  He answered we are the same people. So, if we have an arrogant attitude, we won’t be accepted. We need to be accepted by the people to understand their needs and we need to be flexible. The most important thing is to tell them we are here for you.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">There are many ways to support people but first, the most important thing is study and know the problems.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-events/stage-earth/attachment/p1010586/" rel="attachment wp-att-2594" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Stage Earth" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/P1010586-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P1010586 150x150 Stage Earth" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial;" /></a></p> </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/stage-earth">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-1050095241185913593?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-43674976688459464032010-11-17T13:05:00.001-08:002010-11-17T13:05:25.695-08:00The International Buddhist Temple<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/uncategorized/international-buddhist-temple/attachment/p1010597/" rel="attachment wp-att-2585" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space The International Buddhist Temple" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/P1010597-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P1010597 150x150 The International Buddhist Temple" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: both; float: none; display: block;" /></a><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/uncategorized/international-buddhist-temple/attachment/p1010591/" rel="attachment wp-att-2584" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"></a><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/uncategorized/international-buddhist-temple/attachment/p1010589/" rel="attachment wp-att-2583" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space The International Buddhist Temple" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/P1010589-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P1010589 150x150 The International Buddhist Temple" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: both; float: none; display: block;" /></a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">On Sunday, I went to The International Buddhist Temple.  It’s also called ‘Kuan Yin Temple’. It has an amazing building that follows the traditional Chinese imperial style with multiple beautiful Buddhist statues. For example, <strong style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15);">Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva (Thousand-Hand-Thousand-Eye) </strong>who’s each hand and eye symbolizes the Bodhisattva watching over humankind and protecting them from danger. The serene grounds of the temple are adorned with pine trees, spruce, and elegant bonsai, all planted after careful deliberation.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">I don’t know Buddhism very well but I was amused when I learned a bit about the religion and culture.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/uncategorized/international-buddhist-temple/attachment/p1010601/" rel="attachment wp-att-2582" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space The International Buddhist Temple" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/P1010601-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P1010601 150x150 The International Buddhist Temple" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial;" /></a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Non-Buddhist can also visit there. General hours are <strong style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15);">9:30 AM to 5:30 PM</strong>, seven days a week.  The vegetarian cafeteria is open from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM, and the Thousand Buddha Hall is open from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM.  All other areas are open until 5:30 PM. </p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">General rules: no smoking, no littering, no photography or videotaping inside the buildings, and no non-vegetarian food on the premises.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">The homepage   <a href="http://buddhisttemple.ca/" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">http://buddhisttemple.ca/</a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/uncategorized/international-buddhist-temple/attachment/p1010591/" rel="attachment wp-att-2584" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space The International Buddhist Temple" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/P1010591-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P1010591 150x150 The International Buddhist Temple" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial;" /></a></p> </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/the-international-buddhist-temple">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-4367497668845946403?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-54093481933475858892010-11-17T12:54:00.001-08:002010-11-17T12:54:16.473-08:00GUEST BLOG POST: The Case For Going To School Yesterday And The Case For Not Going To School Today (Not!)<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><div style=""> <img title="Robert Park" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/DSCF0343.jpg" height="165" alt="vancouver office space DSCF0343 GUEST BLOG POST: The Case for Going to School Yesterday and the Case for Not Going to School Today (Not!)" width="220" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;" /><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <i>This is Bobby himself!</i></p></div><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><i>Robert Park is a very good friend of mine who is always very opinionated and his latest blog post is fantastic one that I thought I should share.</i></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><i>You can visit his blog at <a href="http://www.pakg1.net/" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">http://www.pakg1.net/</a></i></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">—</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> Seeing that Mark Zuckerberg is the latest billionaire darling of the tech world who dropped out of school (who the heck has multiple books AND a movie made about them while they’re still in their mid-20s?), you have more and more people saying that </p><div style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/09/09/AR2010090903350.html" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">kids should not go to university</a></div>; Bill Gates attended riches and glory without finishing school, so can you! Now it’s Mark Zuckerberg. College dropout failure to worldwide fame! So goes the kool aid, ad nauseum. <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Let’s put this into context, OK?</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <strong style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15);">1. School:</strong><br />The school that Gates and Zuckerberg quit wasn’t your average Joe Schmoe community college. It was Harvard. It’s hard to get into Harvard. You have to be in the 99th percentile of something, or 95th percentile of everything, to be able to get in. Gates and Zuckerberg were that smart, maybe more. If you’re that smart, you might still make it if you drop out. Most people are sadly not that smart. People like Gates and Zuckerberg are 1 in a hundred million.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><strong style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15);">2. Field of Expertise:</strong><br /> Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg were programmers. But they were hardcore programmers. According to <span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0316017922?tag=apture-20" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">Outliers</a></span></p></div>, written by Malcolm Gladwell, Gates was able to start learning how to program a computer when he was a teenager, due to special resources in his private school. He had access to a computer at a time in the 60s when most people didn’t even know what a computer was. And he showed that <span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill%20Gates" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">he was good at it</a></span> at a time when it was still a nascent field. As I read on one really interesting blog post some time ago, Gates didn’t drop out of Harvard because he couldn’t keep up with Harvard. Gates dropped out of Harvard because Harvard couldn’t keep up with him. He went on to found a company that forever changed the face of computing and make those machines into truly general purpose business and consumer devices: Microsoft. As for Zuckerberg? According to <span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1439102112?tag=apture-20" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">The Facebook Effect</a></span>, he took masters level computer science courses when he was a teenager. Just because he was so good at it. He created a program in high school called Synapse that essentially was an early stage of <span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.pandora.com/" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">Pandora</a></span>. Microsoft offered to buy for $1 million. But he turned them down. I mean… come on. How many of us were able to do anything like that when we were teenagers? I’m talking about the masters level computer science courses. And all the other crazy stuff he programmed while in high school. For both Gates and Zuckerberg, the equivalent would be something like Joe Schmoe’s teenage kid practicing with real NHL players to become a professional hockey player. Except the NHL players also say the kid has the most natural talent they’ve ever seen. And then they all decide to work full-time to help the kid develop the talent into something solid. <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><strong style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15);">3. Background:</strong><br /> These were privileged kids. Gates’ dad was a lawyer. Zuckerberg’s dad was a dentist. They went to private schools. They got opportunity to develop and learn special things that normal kids don’t. Again, Gates got access to a computer when nobody else even had one. These guys weren’t your average Joe Schmoe kids complaining about homework, trying to get girls, and wasting their lives away. If you read about their lives, you see that they were driven, even as teenagers. They had a type of discipline that the average kid (and average adult) does not have. Heck, Zuckerberg didn’t sell Synapse to Microsoft for $1 million because he cared about what he created. He didn’t sell Facebook for $15 billion to Microsoft when he had the chance for the same reason. These guys were about creating, innovating, and changing the world; they refused to let their visions be compromised. Anybody else would care more about making the quick buck. And changing the world they are because they had the guts to stick to their guns in the face of adversity, the intelligence to architect true innovation and disruption, the drive to pull their audacious visions off, and the creativity to actually see those visions in the first place. These people who are telling kids to drop out of university often have no idea which of those kids will have these attributes; fact is, most kids will not. Again, these guys are 1 in a hundred million. Maybe 1 in a billion. And if you don’t have the discipline to even aspire to get that, you have to really wonder if you’re a contender or a pretender. Because pretenders won’t make even 1 dollar, let alone billions.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">I was originally going to post on this subject when I first saw that Washington Post article, but unfortunately lacked time. Well, it’s come on my radar again due to this post. And ironically enough, one point in the Washington Post makes me very worried that there is a certain rationality to quitting school (or not even entering in the first place). <span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><a href="http://techcrunch.com/2010/09/25/students-stay-in-school/#comment-80918988" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">This comment from the Techcrunch post</a></span> is the seed:</p> <blockquote style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 10px; padding-right: 15px; padding-bottom: 10px; padding-left: 15px; font-style: italic; font-size: 1.8em; line-height: 1em; font-weight: 200; background-color: rgb(36, 28, 15); color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Most of the people responding are as much in denial as those kids who think they can all be Michael Jordan. Sure, if you are a clueless idiot who has a good idea, and the social skills to get other people to give you money and build it, you can still succeed, it worked for George W Bush.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">But you know, sometimes, we as a society need *REAL INNOVATION*, not the 20th dweeb putting up a hacked up PHP website and blowing through investor money like no tomorrow. We need people doing real research, real engineering, producing things which actually make a difference in the world.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">The TechCrunch readership is full of wannabees who of course, don’t care about an education, because their idea of entrepreneurship is a half-ass idea, $15k of capital, and 3 months hacking up a prototype. Are you inventing new battery technology? You think you’re going to do that without formal training in Chemistry? Are you devising a new cancer drug? Think you’re going to do that without an education in molecular biology? Was Craig Venter a guy who didn’t attend college? How about a new class of power efficient 3D rendering, or a new power efficient, high yielding WEBM hardware codec for mobile? How many of you are going to build THAT business?</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">This reminds me of all the people who say they never use algebra. The purpose of teaching you algebra and calculus is to teach you critical thinking, problem solving, and abstraction, not create a new Fields Medal winner. College does not exist to teach you a trade skill, that’s what vocational skills are for, it’s to expose you to a wide array of knowledge, and teach you learning and thinking skills that will help you in every endeavor.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">What’s happening here, is smug self-importance of people who fancy themselves entrepreneurs, who create trivial and mundane products, blowing investor money, and most of whom fail, blowing their level of success out of proportion.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">With the exception of some lucky few, and some outright thieves and bandits like Marc Pincus, real success and real innovation come from hard work. We need people to go to school to invent the next great product, and not the next great web 2.0 junk site.</p> </blockquote><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Here’s my worry. The cost of post-secondary education is rising, giving rise to the question whether ROI for post-secondary education is worth the cost. Normally, I’d say yes. But I am increasingly worried that society is more and more short-sighted about what education is and what a job is. And as is normal for free markets, where there is demand, there will eventually be supply. I worry that society no longer cares for giving its children knowledge and the ability to think; rather, they only demand the ability to earn money quickly.  <span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.pakg1.net/2005/03/education-vents.html" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">I believe</a></span> that can have <span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.pakg1.net/2004/06/world-of-patents.html" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">severe unintended consequences</a></span> as the <span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.pakg1.net/2004/06/immortality-take-it-its-yours.html" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">demand for shallow-earning-potential-first education gets fulfilled</a></span>. I wrote those posts in 2004 and 2005. My perception of education is even worse now than it was back then. Even university may not be able to provide that amazing foundation in chemistry required to develop a new battery anymore, if things keep declining.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Yes, university is supposed to be about learning how to think, not about getting job skills. Heck, after developing my career some odd number of years, I can see how this is even more true. I see even people with MBAs fail at work because they don’t know the first thing about real work, about getting stuff done, about adding value that matters. It’s the attitude, not the pedigree, that’s the most important, especially if the pedigree is garbage. And unfortunately, education may actually be more akin to garbage now than not these days. If you’re going to learn nothing, then why go? My own experience at university gave me a total of four courses that made me feel like I developed:</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">PHIL 001 – taught me the basics of logic and reasoning<br /> BUS 437 – taught me about complex decision making<br />POL 241 – gave me a framework for understanding world events<br />BUS 468 – ignited my interest in information asymmetry (an unintended consequent, as this was an IT case study course)<br /> BUEC 495 – taught me about <span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.pakg1.net/2010/09/transaction-costs-in-china-chinese.html" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">transaction costs and the Coase Theorem</a></span></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">The value I saw in my university degree can be summed up right there in 5 courses. Now of course there were calculus, statistics, economics, discrete mathematics, computer science, and other classes that were also valuable. But these five were the cream of the crop. The vast majority of them? Well, the experience is epitomized by two courses:</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">BUS 207 – applied calculus for business economics. Everyone was saying, “OH MAN, THIS COURSE IS SO HARD, THERE’S SO MUCH CALCULUS IN IT!!!” That’s cool, I rock at calculus, course should be a piece of cake. I go into the course. Guess what, we didn’t do a SINGLE derivative or integral the ENTIRE semester! Which part of this was supposed to be calculus?? Heck, what part of this was supposed to be worth LEARNING??</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">ENGL 105 – course where we read books. I complained to an older friend (an English major) that my English course was basically just a book club, we read the books and discussed them. My friend thinks I’m crazy, “Isn’t that perfect though??” Chee. I experienced more insightful analysis and discussion during my high school English AP class, thanks. If I wanted to join a simple book club, I should go join a book club. I paid like friggin $300 for this course, and that was back when tuition was cheap.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Now tuition is expensive. Really expensive. If the quality of education declines because of the great demand for cheap framed pieces of paper that can say someone can earn money, quality be damned, then why should one go to school? It used to be that degrees meant something special. But there is an increasingly inflated value placed on a degree. The higher demand has caused an increase in supply, but because the demand is after the piece of paper, not the thirst for knowledge, the increase in supply is actually quite low quality. Volume is the game and pumping more students through the system means more revenue for the system. Quality be damned.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">If we don’t try to demand high quality, we will lose out in the end, because we’ll get what we demand; it will be a race to the bottom. And for that reason, perhaps it doesn’t make sense anymore for kids to go to university. BUT if one chooses to make that decision, the important question is then: how the heck are they going to get the quality knowledge and critical thinking ability necessary to become successful? I’m not talking Bill Gates successful. I’m talking Joe Schmoe successful. Because if they aren’t able to get that, the next stop is the trailer park, or worse, the street. Fortunately, humanity is resourceful when the chips are down. Hopefully, we can figure something out.  <span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100922/ap_en_mo/cn_film_bill_gates" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">People are already trying to fix things</a></span>and <span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><a href="http://techcrunch.com/2010/09/24/techcrunch-interview-with-mark-zuckerberg-on-100-million-education-donation/" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">they’re starting from the foundation</a></span>. There goes Gates and Zuckerberg again…. Dang, I’m interested in seeing <span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><a href="http://www.waitingforsuperman.com/" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">that other movie</a></span>. <img title="vancouver office space GUEST BLOG POST: The Case for Going to School Yesterday and the Case for Not Going to School Today (Not!)" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif" alt="vancouver office space icon smile GUEST BLOG POST: The Case for Going to School Yesterday and the Case for Not Going to School Today (Not!)" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;" /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">For now? Probably a good idea to stay in school. While the value of a university degree is more and more in doubt, I think it’s still worth it. For now. The experience of being in college and growing up with friends you’ll have for life is worth it. And those 5 courses that I cherished were more than worth all the money I spent for getting my degree. Sometimes, something is just so valuable that it’s invaluable, and it makes sense to pay for it and spend time getting it. Especially when you’re not Bill Gates.</p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/guest-blog-post-the-case-for-going-to-school">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-5409348193347585889?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-36840489708584272482010-11-17T12:49:00.001-08:002010-11-17T12:49:15.661-08:00Hungry Girl's Guide: The Narrow Lounge<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> Paul (@<span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><a href="http://twitter.com/fire" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">fire</a></span></p></div>) in our office is a cool kat, he is always trying to hipsterize me by introducing me to places that are usually unknown to a lot of people unless you are in the “know.” After a fantastic night at Red Galleria for South East Asian Heritage Society fundraiser, Paul (@<span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><a href="http://twitter.com/fire" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">fire</a></span>) insisted that I have to try out this place that is uber chic and hip. I wasn’t too convinced but Jay (@<span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><a href="http://twitter.com/jaycatalan" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">jaycatalan</a></span>) insisted too and well it was 2-against-1 so I didn’t want to be a party-pooper so I obliged. <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">It was so ULTRA HIP, even if you gave me an address I still wouldn’t be able to find it. It is at the corner of Main &amp; 3rd Avenue but seriously unless you’ve been here or you enlisted the help of Google Map, it is super easy to miss. There is no sign or no distinct mark of where it is. The entrance is on the side of a store, walking in I felt like I was going somewhere illegal or I shouldn’t really be here. The Narrow is aptly name, it is very narrow. It has all the hipster elements: 1) Mounted deer head wearing a hat. Check. 2) Mounted wolverine head wearing sunglasses. Check. 3) Random vintage prints that totally don’t go together. Check. 4) Dark and moody. Check. 5) Hipster patrons. Check.</p> <div style=""><img title="Narrow Lounge on Main Street" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/4854_210100335382_834170382_7154281_2166936_n.jpg" height="258" alt="vancouver office space 4854 210100335382 834170382 7154281 2166936 n Hungry’s Girl Guide: The Narrow Lounge" width="386" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;" /><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> Narrow Lounge on Main Street</p></div><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">The service is amazing; even with a full house with standing room only, the 3 bartenders/waitresses were amazingly attentive to our needs. The drinks were well priced as our 3 Dr Peppers (1/2 mug beer, 1 0z Amaretto, 1/2 mug of coke) came to just 20 dollars including tips! The food wasn’t amazing as we tried the fish tacos and their warm nuts BUT seriously, this is a chill place and not really a restaurant you come to for dinner. Even they know that, their menu is small and comprise of basic simple pub regulars.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">It is a super chilled atmosphere and with their awesome service combined with their well priced drinks, I wouldn’t be surprised if I find myself here more often. That is if I can find it.</p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/hungry-girls-guide-the-narrow-lounge">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-3684048970858427248?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-13195365931014981812010-11-17T11:32:00.001-08:002010-11-17T11:32:52.526-08:00Small Trip To Chinatown<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/small-trip-chinatown/attachment/p1010553/" rel="attachment wp-att-2492" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Small trip to Chinatown" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/P1010553-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P1010553 150x150 Small trip to Chinatown" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: both; float: none; display: block;" /></a><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/small-trip-chinatown/attachment/p1010544/" rel="attachment wp-att-2488" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Small trip to Chinatown" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/P1010544-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P1010544 150x150 Small trip to Chinatown" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: both; float: none; display: block;" /></a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><em>I know that smell!</em>…This smell is like my grandmother’s house or Buddhism temple in Japan. The smell of incense reminded me of my hometown and my grandfather’s funeral ceremony. When I was child, I stayed at my grandparents house during vacations and he taught me so much – for example, how to dive and get clams in the sea, or how to gather honey from a honeycomb.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">At the time I was living in another city for university so, I wasn’t able to see my grandfather before he passed. It was a sad time for me; my relatives told me he waited to see me before he passed.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">In my hometown, there is a custom that when someone passes, we have to keep burning incense all night during the funeral. So I said my relatives “I won’t fall asleep because I want to be the person who’ll be keeping incense burning for him!” He loved me and I’ve learned so much from him. I couldn’t do much at that time because I couldn’t meet him. So I wanted to do something to compensate. I had a very firm resolution.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">The incense burn for about an hour. It means I had to switch one every hour. In addition, at my grandparents’ house, there wasn’t much to do. Of course, they didn’t have a computer so I couldn’t use the internet. Instead, I started studying- I opened a science text book around 1 AM and I don’t remember anything I read – Yes, I fall asleep very easily. It was like a reflex – me and science textbook…</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Today I visited an oriental folk art and craft shop at Chinatown. There were lots of exotic products-antique furniture, porcelain and temple’s and worship supplies.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/small-trip-chinatown/attachment/p1010545/" rel="attachment wp-att-2489" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Small trip to Chinatown" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/P1010545-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P1010545 150x150 Small trip to Chinatown" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial;" /></a><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/small-trip-chinatown/attachment/p1010554/" rel="attachment wp-att-2493" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Small trip to Chinatown" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/P1010554-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P1010554 150x150 Small trip to Chinatown" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial;" /></a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">It was a very attractive shop.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> “Do you know what this is?” I asked.</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">“It’s imitation money, clothes and jewelry,”  the shop owner said.<br /> They burn these products at graves or temples for ancestors loved ones who are now in heaven. I didn’t know that! That was something new to me! And in the shop, there were beautiful lanterns, Buddhist images and big soldier statues. If I were a thief and saw those tough statues at someone’s front door, I would probably go somewhere else!.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/small-trip-chinatown/attachment/p1010549/" rel="attachment wp-att-2490" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Small trip to Chinatown" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/P1010549-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P1010549 150x150 Small trip to Chinatown" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial;" /></a><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/small-trip-chinatown/attachment/p1010552/" rel="attachment wp-att-2491" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Small trip to Chinatown" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/P1010552-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P1010552 150x150 Small trip to Chinatown" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial;" /></a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Today, I discovered a bit of Chinatown; a short trip from downtown Vancouver.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">The shop: BAMBOO VILLAGE (135E. Pender St.)</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/small-trip-chinatown/attachment/p1010556/" rel="attachment wp-att-2494" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Small trip to Chinatown" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/P1010556-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P1010556 150x150 Small trip to Chinatown" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial;" /></a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Chinatown information: <a href="http://www.vancouver-chinatown.com/" target="_blank">http://www.vancouver-chinatown.com/</a></p> </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/small-trip-to-chinatown">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-1319536593101498181?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-71275825039862872262010-11-17T11:14:00.001-08:002010-11-17T11:14:14.413-08:00Sure Let’s Grab A Coffee But Before That…<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <img title="vancouver office space Sure let’s grab a coffee but before that…." src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/coffee-1-300x161.jpg" height="161" alt="vancouver office space coffee 1 300x161 Sure let’s grab a coffee but before that…." width="300" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: left; float: left;" />One of the most requests I get is, “Can we grab a coffee sometime?”  I sometimes hesitate because some meetings are fantastic but there is that odd time when the meeting has no directions whatsoever and I feel like I have wasted not only my time but the valuable time of the person I am meeting.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">I love Quora and this has got to be THE BEST QUESTION and THE BEST ANSWER in all my time on Quora,</p> <div><strong style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15);">Question:</strong></div><div>“How do you politely turn down someone who wants to “grab coffee sometime”?”</div><div><strong style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15);">Answer:</strong></div> <div>“One thing I’ve discovered over the years is that asking someone to do the tiniest bit of real work is an unreasonably effective way of separating out the posers from the operators.<br />Say something like “I’d love to meet with you but I don’t want to waste your time so I’d like you to send me X first so I can look it over and come up with N suggestions before we meet”. Make sure X is something that needs to be generated rather than something they might already have on hand.</div> <div>I’ve found, when doing this, that all the marginal requests magically melt away and they will simply stop responding to your email and never contact you again. It doesn’t matter how trivial the request is, I still can’t quite figure out why it’s so effective.”</div> <div>To see this answer, visit:</div><div><strong style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15);"><span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><a href="http://qr.ae/rhW" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">http://qr.ae/rhW</a></span></strong></div></div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/sure-lets-grab-a-coffee-but-before-that">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-7127582503986287226?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-73501884969851867002010-11-17T11:08:00.001-08:002010-11-17T11:08:27.464-08:00Picnic At Canada Place<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/picnic-rice-balls/attachment/p1010533-2/" rel="attachment wp-att-2440" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Picnic at Canada Place" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/P10105331-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P10105331 150x150 Picnic at Canada Place" width="150" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: both; float: none; display: block;" /></a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Today I went to one of my favorite places in Vancouver – Canada Place. I like to go there because I can always enjoy a picnic! Eating outside is a magic spice, every food can be yummy food even my cooking!</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">In Canada, the most popular foods we think about for picnics are sandwiches, pizzas, hamburgers, and fruits. I love those but I like my country’s preference – Japanese rice balls. It’s the one of the most popular treats in Japan and it’s very easy to cook. The most popular flavor  is made of lightly salted rice, has pickled ume on the inside and is wrapped with seaweed.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">There are so many kinds of fillings and ingredients we can choose. For example, teriyaki chicken, tuna, salted cod roe and spicy octopus to name a few. We can put in whatever ingredients we like! My favorites are mayonnaise tuna and baked salmon!</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Next time you’re out and want to have a picnic, bring some rice balls. And if you go to Canada Place with your children, there is an activity centre called “Discovery Centre”.  You can learn about the Port Metro Vancouver’s history and its importance. In addition, there are mini games like having to ship coal from Canada to Japan!</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> Before the rainy winter hits us, let’s enjoy beautiful Vancouver’s sunlight while it’s here a little past summer!</p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-2/picnic-rice-balls/attachment/p1010526-4/" rel="attachment wp-att-2443" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img class="alignnone size-thumbnail wp-image-2443" title="vancouver office space Picnic at Canada Place" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/P10105263-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space P10105263 150x150 Picnic at Canada Place" width="150" style="cursor: pointer; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: both; float: none; display: block;" /></a></p> <p></p></div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/picnic-at-canada-place">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-7350188496985186700?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-4673681280367507732010-11-17T10:53:00.001-08:002010-11-17T10:53:44.730-08:00Programs For Kids At The Vancouver Public Library<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"> <strong style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15);"><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-events/2396/attachment/img01272-20100920-1548/" rel="attachment wp-att-2400" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Programs for kids at the Vancouver Public Library" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/IMG01272-20100920-1548-1024x768.jpg" height="190" alt="vancouver office space IMG01272 20100920 1548 1024x768 Programs for kids at the Vancouver Public Library" width="278" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: both; float: none; display: block;" /></a><img title="vancouver office space Programs for kids at the Vancouver Public Library" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/IMG01283-20100920-1559-300x225.jpg" height="152" alt="vancouver office space IMG01283 20100920 1559 300x225 Programs for kids at the Vancouver Public Library" width="166" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: both; float: none; display: block;" /></strong></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">“Please get married and have a baby soon!” my father said to me when I lived in Japan, even though I didn’t have such a plan and I didn’t have a boyfriend! At that time I felt bad because of him but I’m a very good and serious girl. To prepare for unknown future, I visited the Vancouver Central Library to attend a program for kids without kids.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">These programs are offered in many branches and are divided by children’s age.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><a href="http://www.vpl.ca/cgi-bin/api/calendar.cgi?audience_idx=9" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">http://www.vpl.ca/cgi-bin/api/calendar.cgi?audience_idx=9</a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Today I visited “Babytime”. It’s a program for children 1-2 years old. I enjoyed rhymes, songs, finger puppet plays and stories for babies.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">When I was a child, my mum took me to these kinds of programs. I made many friends there and I learned lots from the picture book stories.  For example, a picture book taught me to tell the truth – if I told a lie, my tongue would be pulled out by the King of Hell! I’m honest with people because of the Hell King from my childhood!</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Growing up, we often forget beautiful experiences of when we were children. But my memories with my childhood friends still remain as my treasures.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/vancouver-events/2396/attachment/img01279-20100920-1557/" rel="attachment wp-att-2402" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;"><img title="vancouver office space Programs for kids at the Vancouver Public Library" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/IMG01279-20100920-1557-300x225.jpg" height="172" alt="vancouver office space IMG01279 20100920 1557 300x225 Programs for kids at the Vancouver Public Library" width="271" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: both; float: none; display: block;" /></a></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">The Vancouver Public Library has a unique program for male caregivers called “MAN IN THE MOON”.  It’s a program for male caregivers who are busy or want a closer relationship with their child. The program is for dads, stepdads, foster dads, granddads and all male caregivers and their little ones!</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Male caregivers can learn how to communicate and play with their children. It is offered in English, Cantonese and Spanish. Sessions are for newborns to 36 months and admission is free. Also, registration is required for this program. For more information about the programs, you can call 604-331-3657. It is a chance to learn to have a great connection with your children. Otherwise, they’ll grow up and move out from your house soon!</p> </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/programs-for-kids-at-the-vancouver-public-lib">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-467368128036750773?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-41849398459952860732010-11-17T10:48:00.001-08:002010-11-17T10:48:03.725-08:00Community Building And Social Media<div class='posterous_autopost'><div style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; text-align: center;"> <img title="Wine &amp; Keso Night" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/winekeso-300x208.jpg" height="208" alt="vancouver office space winekeso 300x208 Community Building and Social Media" width="300" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: auto; clear: none;" /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">I’ve been having an on going and spirited debate with a good friend about the value of online social networks, and the usefulness of social media tools such as <a href="http://twitter.com/" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">Twitter</a> and <a href="http://facebook.com/" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">Facebook</a>.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">The other day, he sent a provocative email addressed to me and our group of friends. In it, he quoted several articles from psychology magazines that in essence claims the only value of Twitter is to create and nurture a narcissistic society. My friend goes on to say that there is no real use for it other than for marketing and creating ‘plastic relationships’.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">I understood, in part, where my friend was coming from. There are definitely aspects of social media that are narcissistic and plastic. But that’s because the online world is made up of people from the real world, which is a mix of the good and the bad. Unfortunately, just like the real world, it takes time and a bit of effort to find and connect with the good people amongst all the noise.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">I also understand that his email was partly motivated by the difficulty he’s been having in getting in touch with me via phone, email or in person. He’s right to be frustrated, and he’s right that I need to put in more face time with my friends. However, I take exception with the claim that these tools create nothing but ‘plastic relationships’.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">I’ve been using these social media tools lately to reach out to Filipinos in Vancouver, as well as across the globe.  My friend,<span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 11px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"> </span></span></p></div><a href="http://twitter.com/ayoslang" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">RJ Aquino</a>, and <span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 11px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"> </span><a href="http://twitter.com/jaycatalan" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">I</a></span> have been trying to connect with the younger generation of Filipinos in Vancouver, in an effort to bridge the perceived gaps between the more established Filipinos in Vancouver and the more recent Filipino immigrants and overseas foreign workers. The experience I have had with this <a href="http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pages/Vancity-Workshops-on-Filipino-Language-History-Culture/139855149377247" title="Vancity Workshops on Filipino Language, History &amp; Culture" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">group</a> these past few weeks has shown me that these relationships do not have to be merely ‘plastic’. <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Below is an excerpt of the email response that I sent out to my friend. Please forgive the slightly brassy tone of the email, as it was sent to an old friend and we’re used to talking to each other in this manner :</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; text-align: left;"><em>Through my experience in the past few weeks, I’ve met a lot of caring and passionate Filipinos online, some through Facebook, and some through Twitter.</em></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; text-align: left;"><em>I’ve always emphasized that these tools, if you wanna use them to make connections, should only be a starting point. (Using it as a curative tool for finding reliable interesting info is a totally different application)</em></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; text-align: left;"><em>By sharing ideas, articles or engaging in conversation through Twitter, you get an idea of where people’s minds and hearts are at.</em></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; text-align: left;"><em>At this point you can move from being like-minded strangers online and into a real-world community.</em></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; text-align: left;"><em>This is what’s happened with our little Filipino group. We are slowly but surely, building a community of passionate and caring young Filipinos, who wants to a) connect with other Filipinos and their culture b) Help pass our heritage onto 2nd and 3rd<br /> generation Filipinos c) Enable positive cultural identification in a group that is sorely lacking it, and d) Help new immigrants who have a difficult time adjusting to this new land due to point c.</em></p><p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; text-align: left;"> <em>The open system of Twitter has allowed us to find each other here, and connect with Filipinos back home, through exchange of ideas. Lacking a geographic centre was no longer as big of a drawback. Nothing replaces face to face contact, and we have had several events since then, including the Wine &amp; Keso night on Friday, where several young people spoke up about being tremendously excited and happy to find this ‘Community’ that we’re building. Everyone is enthusiastic about finding out what the others are doing, and seeing what they can do to support each other’s causes and events, and learning from each other through volunteer run workshops.</em></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; text-align: left;"><em>….., my very good friend, do you want to attend our next gathering and speak to these teens that have been sparked up with hope and excitement, and tell them what they are feeling in their heart is all merely ‘plastic’.</em></p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/community-building-and-social-media">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-4184939845995286073?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-28639910035594859832010-11-17T10:35:00.001-08:002010-11-17T10:35:26.755-08:00Collaborative Act Of Urban Transformation<div class='posterous_autopost'><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;">On Sundays, there is a good chance you can find me wandering around on <span style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Commercial%20Drive%2C%20Vancouver" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">Commercial Drive</a></span> half asleep, looking for a sunny spot to have my coffee and enjoy my book. Today was a bit different, my jaw nearly dropped and my eyes were wide opened when I saw a tree growing out of a trunk. After checking in with myself to confirm that I was indeed awake, I circled the car and checked out the plants.</span><br /> <div style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, Arial, sans; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18px;"> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><img title="Stick Shift Project - Collaborative Act of Urban Transformation" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/IMG01092-20100905-16251.jpg" height="270" alt="vancouver office space IMG01092 20100905 16251 Collaborative act of urban transformation" width="360" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: both; float: none; display: block;" /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;"><img title="Stick Shift Project - Collaborative Act of Urban Transformation" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/IMG01093-20100905-16251.jpg" height="270" alt="vancouver office space IMG01093 20100905 16251 Collaborative act of urban transformation" width="360" style="border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; clear: both; float: none; display: block;" /></p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">I found out that these cars are donated by Drake Towing with the engines removed and in its place were planted fruit trees – it is all part of Stick Shift. Stick shift is “a collaborative act of urban transformation” to create support for urban orchards.</p> <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">There are a few community gardens in Vancouver (with more in the works) such as the Kitsilano Community garden on West 6th Avenue &amp; Maple, China Creek South community garden on East 10th Avenue &amp; Clark Drive, McSpadden community garden on East 5th &amp; Victoria Drive (my neighborhood garden) and many more. You can see the entire list community gardens on </p><div style="display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;"><a href="http://vancouver.ca/parks/parks/comgardn.htm" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 0px !important; border-bottom-style: none; text-decoration: none; padding-top: 0px !important; padding-right: 0px !important; padding-bottom: 0px !important; padding-left: 0px !important; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial; display: inline !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-bottom: 0px !important; margin-left: 0px !important; border-top-width: 0px !important; border-right-width: 0px !important; border-left-width: 0px !important; border-color: initial !important; float: none !important;">Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation website</a></div>. <a href="http://stickshiftproject.com/" target="_blank" style="font-weight: 800; color: rgb(36, 28, 15); border-bottom-width: 5px; border-bottom-style: none; border-bottom-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); text-decoration: none; padding-top: 3px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 3px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-color: initial;">Stick shift</a> is a wonderful project that is reinforcing the existing movement to revive and maintain open spaces but also to connect and bring people together to work towards an ecologically sustainable neighbourhood. <p style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px;">Make sure you check out their site at <a href="http://stickshiftproject.com/" target="_blank">http://stickshiftproject.com/</a></p> </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/collaborative-act-of-urban-transformation">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-2863991003559485983?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-76005015641225843052010-09-10T13:05:00.001-07:002010-09-10T13:05:26.780-07:00Next phase of working at home is coworking<div class='posterous_autopost'><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Untitled-2" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/Untitled-2.png" height="400" alt="vancouver office space Untitled 2 Next phase of working at home is coworking" width="302" /></p> <p><b>STORY HIGHLIGHTS</b></p> <ul><li>Restless at-home workers improve by collaborating face to face</li><li>Home-based workers say “<a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/coworking-vancouver/" title="coworking" target="_blank">coworking</a>” balances freedom, teamwork</li> <li>Coworking groups are meeting or forming in more than 40 U.S. cities</li><li>The trend comes as single-person businesses increase</li></ul> <blockquote class="posterous_medium_quote"><p>“The reason people work alone, is because they’re looking for freedom,” said Bachman, a 34-year-old Web developer who telecommutes part time. “It may be ironic that you crave isolation, but you also want to be socially interactive with others like you.”</p></blockquote> <blockquote class="posterous_medium_quote"><p>“Starbucks was a place to get out of the house and be around other people,” said Sherry Heyl, a Jelly coworker and home-based social media consultant. “But you can’t turn to the person next to you at Starbucks and say, ‘Can you look at this proposal and tell me if it looks all right or check it for typos?’”</p></blockquote> <p>Read more about: <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/worklife/04/07/coworking/index.html" target="_blank">Next phase of working at home: Leaving home</a></p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/next-phase-of-working-at-home-is-coworking">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-7600501564122584305?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-64448388831129881702010-09-10T13:03:00.001-07:002010-09-10T13:03:17.996-07:00The Last Lecture: Achieving Your Childhood Dream<div class='posterous_autopost'> <img title="Reach_for_the_stars" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/Reach_for_the_stars-150x150.jpg" height="150" alt="vancouver office space Reach for the stars 150x150 The Last Lecture: Achieving Your Childhood Dream" width="150" /><p> There are so many people I admire but if you ask me to list the top 10 people  I admire, I would have to name Randy Pausch as one of them. A young college professor who chronicled his battle with cancel and delivered the kind of lecture that not only make you stop to pay attention but also touch your heart and soul. It is the kind of lecture that makes you ask yourself, if I knew I was going to die and had a chance to sum up every thing that is important to me, what would I say? It’s not a sad lecture; in fact, it is uplifting as it makes you want to think about your dreams and achieving it. <p>How does it apply to entrepreneurs? We are often so scared to make decisions or take opportunities that is presented to us, fear rules over us. There are also some of us who are in jobs we don’t like, doing work that we know we were not meant to be doing…. but too scared to step away from the familiar habits that we have been in for so long to follow our passion and dream.</p><p><object height="417" width="500"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/ji5_MqicxSo&hl=en&fs=1" /></param><param name="wmode" value="window" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /></param><embed allowfullscreen="true" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/ji5_MqicxSo&hl=en&fs=1" wmode="window" allowscriptaccess="always" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" height="417" width="500"></embed></object></p> <blockquote class="posterous_short_quote"><p>“It is not the things we do in life that we regret on our death bed. It is the things we do not. Find your passion and follow it” – Randy Pausch</p></blockquote> <p><img title="vancouver office space The Last Lecture: Achieving Your Childhood Dream" src="http://counters.gigya.com/wildfire/IMP/CXNID=2000002.0NXC/bT*xJmx*PTEyODM*MTMyOTk1NDcmcHQ9MTI4MzQxMzMwNDI5NCZwPTEyNTg*MTEmZD1BQkNOZXdzX1NGUF9Mb2NrZV9FbWJlZCZn/PTImbz1mODI5Y2JmNTNiNGE*YjNiOThkOGViMjA1YzQ*YjA1NyZvZj*w.gif" border="0" height="0" alt="vancouver office space PTImbz1mODI5Y2JmNTNiNGE*YjNiOThkOGViMjA1YzQ*YjA1NyZvZj*w The Last Lecture: Achieving Your Childhood Dream" style="" width="0" /></p> <a href="http://soc.li/OVv93ni" target="_blank">http://soc.li/OVv93ni</a><br /> </p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/the-last-lecture-achieving-your-childhood-dre">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-6444838883112988170?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-43731853030238610842010-09-10T12:57:00.001-07:002010-09-10T12:57:25.821-07:00More people find freelance lifestyle attractive<div class='posterous_autopost'><p style="text-align: center;"><img title="logo1" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/logo1-300x54.jpg" height="54" alt="vancouver office space logo1 300x54 More people find freelance lifestyle attractive" width="300" /></p> <p><i><b>A quick plug for Freelance Camp:</b> If you are a freelancer, find out about Freelance Camp! An ad-hoc gathering of freelancers to share and learn in an open environment. There is one in Vancouver – </i><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/freelancecamp/" target="_blank"><i>www.thenetworkhub.ca/freelancecamp/</i></a></p> <blockquote class="posterous_medium_quote"><p>According to the Elance report, the economic downturn is no longer the primary force driving professionals to start a freelance career. Less than 5 percent of those surveyed said they were working as a freelancer until they could find a full-time job, and less than 25 percent said they became freelancers after a layoff. Over half of those who responded to the survey said they began freelancing to be their own boss and work on projects they loved, and almost 80 percent of respondents said the ability to have control over their own work schedule was their favorite part of working independently.</p></blockquote> <p><a href="http://gigaom.com/2010/09/01/more-people-are-choosing-the-freelance-lifestyle/elance-screenshot/" target="_blank"><img title="Elance-screenshot" src="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/09/elance-screenshot.png" height="267" alt="vancouver office space elance screenshot More people find freelance lifestyle attractive" width="358" /></a></p> <p>Read more here: <a href="http://gigaom.com/2010/09/01/more-people-are-choosing-the-freelance-lifestyle/" target="_blank">More People Are Choosing the Freelance Lifestyle</a></p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/more-people-find-freelance-lifestyle-attracti">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-4373185303023861084?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-56468913605133864772010-09-10T12:54:00.003-07:002010-09-10T12:54:35.119-07:00Coworking: Creating a sustainable city<div class='posterous_autopost'><p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Vancouver Lost Lagoon" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/IMG00990-20100825-1956-1-300x225.jpg" height="225" alt="vancouver office space IMG00990 20100825 1956 1 300x225 Coworking: Creating a sustainable city" width="300" /></p> <p><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/coworking-vancouver/" title="Coworking" target="_blank">Coworking</a> is more than just a distributed-working model. It’s a philosophy and an exercise in community-building. Coworking offers numerous opportunities to implement sustainability/greening initiatives in the workplace. Coworking also helps address several of the objectives proposed in the Greenest City action plans and programs. Here, we focus on the following aspects – affordability, sustainability, diversity, focus on the creative city/creative economy, and local economic development.</p> <p>So how does coworking fit into the “Greenest City in the World by 2020″ proposed by Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson?</p> <p><b>AFFORDABLE</b><br /> By sharing offices and resources with each other, the cost of rent for each business is brought down significantly.   The community built in at a coworking space provides more than workspace, it provides smart solutions and networking opportunities with other businesses in the same space. As cost of doing business and real estate increases, coworking helps lower the pressure of inflation by spreading the cost of acquiring a professional space to work.</p> <p><b>SUSTAINABLE</b><br /> Sharing resources among businesses means we cut down a significant amount of wastes compared to if each businesses set out to have their own <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver-office-space-rental/" title="office space" target="_blank">office space</a>.  From paper, utility, napkins and supplies – a community sharing resources to cut down waste helps set the foundation for a micro sustainable micro-city in each coworking space.  Bikes are encouraged mode of transportation and most coworking spaces such as ours have installed showers for people who bike to work.</p> <p><b>DIVERSITY</b><br /> Freelancers, startups, small businesses and entrepreneurs from various backgrounds and phases are found in coworking spaces, the diversity is vast but that’s not all that is exciting – it is the innovation and mutual inspiration that comes with diversity that is particularly important for a sustainable and creative city.  The brain power that arises from bringing like-minded folks from diverse professions together in one place is powerful.</p> <p><b>CREATIVE CITY</b><br /> Productivity isn’t the only significant benefit developed as a result of coworking, there is also an increase of creative input.  Diversity of skills in one room is a unique strength of coworking.  Freelancers, entrepreneurs, small business owners collaborate on joint projects, consult each other and have even started companies together.</p> <p><b>ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT</b><br /> By creating an affordable, flexible and smart space for people to work from,  coworking nurtures and breeds a collaborative culture within the space. The collaborative culture gives rise to a community – strangers becomes coworkers who share ideas and interest with each other. Professional and personal relationships are built from working with other businesses in the same space. This gives each coworking member a powerful network of professional and personal resources through the other members of the coworking space.  The flexibility in lease agreement gives breathing room to new businesses uncertain of their financial situations and alleviates the tremendous amount of stress that comes with a long term iron-clad contract.  Coworking breeds a collaborative community that supports each other and more importantly, it nurtures businesses that grows up and give back to the local economy through jobs and investments.</p> <p>At <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/" title="The Network Hub" target="_blank">The Network Hub</a> we have provided a launch pad for more than forty companies during our 4.5 years of existence and our involvement in the local freelance/entrepreneur/tech communities is well-known. We enjoy building community and look forward to continue our work in strengthening the local entrepreneurial community.</p> <div style=""><b><a href="http://www.slideshare.net/maxthemonkey/coworking-project-by-cowo-why-is-coworking-good-for-a-city" title="Why is coworking good for a city? A Cowo® presentation." target="_blank">Why is coworking good for a city? A Cowo® presentation.</a></b> <div style="padding: 5px 0pt 12px;">View more <a href="http://www.slideshare.net/" target="_blank">presentations</a> from <a href="http://www.slideshare.net/maxthemonkey" target="_blank">maxthemonkey</a>.</div> <h3>Read more about coworking from Dr. Raul Pacheco-Vega:</h3> <ul><li><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/coworking-vancouver/the-importance-of-mentoring-in-a-coworking-space/" target="_blank">The Importance Of Mentoring In A Coworking Space</a></li><li><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/coworking-vancouver/shared-caffeine-coworking-and-community-building-around-coffee-breaks/" target="_blank">Shared Caffeine? Coworking And Community Building Around Coffee Breaks</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/coworking-vancouver/thinking-about-guiding-principles-for-coworking-spaces/" target="_blank">Thinking About Guiding Principles For Coworking Spaces</a></li><li> <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/coworking-vancouver/coworking-and-knowledge-spillovers-when-does-being-in-close-proximity-help/" target="_blank">Coworking And Knowledge Spillovers: When Does Being In Close Proximity Help?</a></li> </ul> </div><br /><p /><object height="300" width="500"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/DQVOf9ZA5f4&hl=en&fs=1&hd=1" /></param><param name="wmode" value="window" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /></param><embed allowfullscreen="true" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/DQVOf9ZA5f4&hl=en&fs=1&hd=1" wmode="window" allowscriptaccess="always" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" height="300" width="500"></embed></object> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/coworking-creating-a-sustainable-city">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-5646891360513386477?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-6030742207418570202010-09-10T12:54:00.001-07:002010-09-10T12:54:31.055-07:00Coworking: Creating a sustainable city<div class='posterous_autopost'><p style="text-align: center;"><img title="Vancouver Lost Lagoon" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/IMG00990-20100825-1956-1-300x225.jpg" height="225" alt="vancouver office space IMG00990 20100825 1956 1 300x225 Coworking: Creating a sustainable city" width="300" /></p> <p><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/coworking-vancouver/" title="Coworking" target="_blank">Coworking</a> is more than just a distributed-working model. It’s a philosophy and an exercise in community-building. Coworking offers numerous opportunities to implement sustainability/greening initiatives in the workplace. Coworking also helps address several of the objectives proposed in the Greenest City action plans and programs. Here, we focus on the following aspects – affordability, sustainability, diversity, focus on the creative city/creative economy, and local economic development.</p> <p>So how does coworking fit into the “Greenest City in the World by 2020″ proposed by Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson?</p> <p><b>AFFORDABLE</b><br /> By sharing offices and resources with each other, the cost of rent for each business is brought down significantly.   The community built in at a coworking space provides more than workspace, it provides smart solutions and networking opportunities with other businesses in the same space. As cost of doing business and real estate increases, coworking helps lower the pressure of inflation by spreading the cost of acquiring a professional space to work.</p> <p><b>SUSTAINABLE</b><br /> Sharing resources among businesses means we cut down a significant amount of wastes compared to if each businesses set out to have their own <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver-office-space-rental/" title="office space" target="_blank">office space</a>.  From paper, utility, napkins and supplies – a community sharing resources to cut down waste helps set the foundation for a micro sustainable micro-city in each coworking space.  Bikes are encouraged mode of transportation and most coworking spaces such as ours have installed showers for people who bike to work.</p> <p><b>DIVERSITY</b><br /> Freelancers, startups, small businesses and entrepreneurs from various backgrounds and phases are found in coworking spaces, the diversity is vast but that’s not all that is exciting – it is the innovation and mutual inspiration that comes with diversity that is particularly important for a sustainable and creative city.  The brain power that arises from bringing like-minded folks from diverse professions together in one place is powerful.</p> <p><b>CREATIVE CITY</b><br /> Productivity isn’t the only significant benefit developed as a result of coworking, there is also an increase of creative input.  Diversity of skills in one room is a unique strength of coworking.  Freelancers, entrepreneurs, small business owners collaborate on joint projects, consult each other and have even started companies together.</p> <p><b>ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT</b><br /> By creating an affordable, flexible and smart space for people to work from,  coworking nurtures and breeds a collaborative culture within the space. The collaborative culture gives rise to a community – strangers becomes coworkers who share ideas and interest with each other. Professional and personal relationships are built from working with other businesses in the same space. This gives each coworking member a powerful network of professional and personal resources through the other members of the coworking space.  The flexibility in lease agreement gives breathing room to new businesses uncertain of their financial situations and alleviates the tremendous amount of stress that comes with a long term iron-clad contract.  Coworking breeds a collaborative community that supports each other and more importantly, it nurtures businesses that grows up and give back to the local economy through jobs and investments.</p> <p>At <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/" title="The Network Hub" target="_blank">The Network Hub</a> we have provided a launch pad for more than forty companies during our 4.5 years of existence and our involvement in the local freelance/entrepreneur/tech communities is well-known. We enjoy building community and look forward to continue our work in strengthening the local entrepreneurial community.</p> <div style=""><b><a href="http://www.slideshare.net/maxthemonkey/coworking-project-by-cowo-why-is-coworking-good-for-a-city" title="Why is coworking good for a city? A Cowo® presentation." target="_blank">Why is coworking good for a city? A Cowo® presentation.</a></b> <div style="padding: 5px 0pt 12px;">View more <a href="http://www.slideshare.net/" target="_blank">presentations</a> from <a href="http://www.slideshare.net/maxthemonkey" target="_blank">maxthemonkey</a>.</div> <h3>Read more about coworking from Dr. Raul Pacheco-Vega:</h3> <ul><li><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/coworking-vancouver/the-importance-of-mentoring-in-a-coworking-space/" target="_blank">The Importance Of Mentoring In A Coworking Space</a></li><li><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/coworking-vancouver/shared-caffeine-coworking-and-community-building-around-coffee-breaks/" target="_blank">Shared Caffeine? Coworking And Community Building Around Coffee Breaks</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/coworking-vancouver/thinking-about-guiding-principles-for-coworking-spaces/" target="_blank">Thinking About Guiding Principles For Coworking Spaces</a></li><li> <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/mailbox-rental/coworking-vancouver/coworking-and-knowledge-spillovers-when-does-being-in-close-proximity-help/" target="_blank">Coworking And Knowledge Spillovers: When Does Being In Close Proximity Help?</a></li> </ul> </div><br /><p /><object height="300" width="500"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/DQVOf9ZA5f4&hl=en&fs=1&hd=1" /></param><param name="wmode" value="window" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /></param><embed allowfullscreen="true" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/DQVOf9ZA5f4&hl=en&fs=1&hd=1" wmode="window" allowscriptaccess="always" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" height="300" width="500"></embed></object> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/coworking-creating-a-sustainable-city">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-603074220741857020?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-42048160391510914192010-09-10T12:50:00.001-07:002010-09-10T12:50:30.091-07:00Coworking: Rethink Office Space<div class='posterous_autopost'><p><img title="Rethink office space - coworking" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/bg-300x187.gif" height="187" alt="vancouver office space bg 300x187 Coworking: Rethink Office Space" width="300" /><br /> The <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/coworking-vancouver/" title="coworking" target="_blank">coworking</a> movement is one that has every one rethink how they work. With technology giving us the ability to work wherever and whenever we want to, it then creates a unique situation where we crave for colleagues and social interactions after being cooped up for a long period of time.</p> <blockquote class="posterous_medium_quote"><p>“As working from home becomes more and more common for creative professionals – be they freelancers or otherwise – the need for social interaction in the workplace has become increasingly more apparent. While home offices allow the flexibility to do what you want, when you want, it is important to question how our environment affects both state of mind and productivity.”</p></blockquote> <blockquote class="posterous_short_quote"><p>“By bringing like-minded folks from diverse professions together into one place, you create a very powerful contingent of brain power.”</p></blockquote> <p><b>Read more about:</b> <a href="http://the99percent.com/articles/5747/tony-bacigalupo-new-workspace" target="_blank">New Workspace</a></p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/coworking-rethink-office-space">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-4204816039151091419?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-69139546762604147572010-09-10T12:43:00.001-07:002010-09-10T12:43:36.683-07:00Coworking: Lower office space cost with more benefits<div class='posterous_autopost'><p><img title="pix_joomla_docCamp" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/pix_joomla_docCamp.jpg" height="208" alt="vancouver office space pix joomla docCamp Coworking: Lower office space cost with more benefits" width="213" /><br /> When you are operating a business, you want to minimize your expenses as much as possible and <span><span> </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leasing" target="_blank">commercial lease</a></span> is a huge expense for most people.  <span><span> </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freelancer" target="_blank">Freelancers</a></span>, part-time workers, self-employed, <span><span> </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Startup%20company" target="_blank">startups</a></span>, <span><span> </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Entrepreneur" target="_blank">entrepreneurs</a></span> and even <span><span> </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Small%20business" target="_blank">small businesses</a></span> find themselves saving thousands of dollars.  With shared resources such as internet, printer, fax, <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver-meeting-room-rental/" title="meeting room" target="_blank">meeting room</a> and included amenities such as utility, cleaning expenses and access to networking events usually organized in the space - <span><span> </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coworking" target="_blank">coworking</a></span> has huge benefits at significantly lower pricing.</p> <blockquote><p>Welcome to the world of <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/coworking-vancouver/" title="coworking" target="_blank">coworking</a>, where freelancers, part-time workers, the self-employed and start-up principals trade in their temporary work spaces at coffee shops and living rooms for a shared office.</p></blockquote> <blockquote class="posterous_medium_quote"><p>“I’m a very collaborative person and I noticed that when people are doing freelance work or have their own business, it can get very lonely,” Rokusek (right) said. “It’s nice to have a space where folks can work on their own projects but also have a sense of collegiality.”</p></blockquote> <p>“The coworking movement is about collaborating with people,” he said. “It’s a great place for impromptu brainstorming sessions. If you need creative minds for projects, it’s the kind of place to find people who are willing to help. It’s also a place with the kind of energy you can’t get at a coffee house.”</p> <p>Read more about: <a href="http://www.stlbeacon.org/content/view/103943/143/" target="_blank">Coworking spaces: traditional office, low overhead</a></p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/coworking-lower-office-space-cost-with-more-b">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-6913954676260414757?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-53707416729083537342010-09-10T12:35:00.001-07:002010-09-10T12:35:53.732-07:00Colleague-craving freelancer gives coworking a try<div class='posterous_autopost'><p> </p> <p><img title="7_main" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/09/7_main-150x150.gif" height="150" alt="vancouver office space 7 main 150x150 Colleague craving freelancer gives coworking a try" width="150" /> We often get freelancers who come into the office thanking us for opening a <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/coworking-vancouver/" title="coworking" target="_blank">coworking</a> space.  <span><span> </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freelancer" target="_blank">Freelancers</a></span> who operates out of the house or coffee shop, especially those who have been working from home for a long time crave the casual conversation with “coworker” or they are hoping for separation between work and home. <span><span> </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coworking" target="_blank">Coworking</a></span> spaces are set up for <span><span> </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freelancer" target="_blank">freelancers</a></span> who enjoy the casual chatter or the ability to bounce ideas off of each other but still be able to go back to their desk and focus on their own work.</p> <p>Follow <a href="http://www.thelinemedia.com/features/coworking08042010.aspx" target="_blank">Elizabeth Millard</a> who is a freelance writer from <a href="http://www.thelinemedia.com/" target="_blank">thelinemedia.com</a> who explores coworking through the lenses of a freelance writer.</p> <blockquote class="posterous_medium_quote"><p>As a typical freelancer, I sometimes crave the coziness of other people’s presence while working, and head out to a Dunn Bros. orMay Day Cafe, but anyplace I go tends to be the same: people working near each other, but definitely not together. If I was attempting to hammer out some prose at a coffee shop and a fellow cafe denizen turned to ask what I was working on, I’d likely respond by moving to another table.</p></blockquote> <blockquote class="posterous_medium_quote"><p>“People have basic social needs,” notes Becerra. “Just because you’re working for yourself doesn’t mean you can’t fill those needs, too. That’s the idea behind this, and we think it’s an amazing model. We believe it can really evolve in even more exciting directions.”</p></blockquote> <blockquote class="posterous_medium_quote"><p>“People can bounce ideas off each other about their work, but they can also just have a conversation. I think people who work in traditional offices take that for granted, the little moments of connection during the day. But it’s something that many of the self-employed don’t get on a consistent basis.”</p></blockquote> <p><b>Read more here:</b> <a href="http://www.thelinemedia.com/features/coworking08042010.aspx" target="_blank">does coworking work? a colleague-craving freelancer gives the non-office office a try</a></p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/colleague-craving-freelancer-gives-coworking">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-5370741672908353734?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-10659400205989636872010-09-10T12:29:00.001-07:002010-09-10T12:29:10.753-07:00What is coworking?<div class='posterous_autopost'><br /><a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/coworking-vancouver/" title="Coworking" target="_blank">Coworking</a> is a concept still very new to a lot of people and for us it was important to make sure all your questions are address, it is a paradigm shift to work in a shared <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/vancouver-office-space-rental/" title="office space" target="_blank">office space</a>. It is very new and we want to provide all the information that we can about coworking to you… please feel free to contact us if you have further questions. <p>Enjoy the read.</p> <p><a href="http://gigaom.com/" target="_blank">Coworking 101 by GigaOm</a></p><ul><li><span><a href="http://gigaom.com/collaboration/reimagining-coworking-for-writers-women-and-green-entrepreneurs/" target="_blank">Reimagining Coworking for Writers, Women and Green Entrepreneurs</a></span><div> <p><a href="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/09/coworking.jpg" target="_blank"><img title="coworking" src="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/09/coworking.jpg?w=300&amp;h=199" height="199" alt="" width="300" /></a>Successful coworking communities have always been diverse at their core; their ability to bring together tech professionals from various disciplines into a shared environment is part of the value of being a member of a coworking space.</p> <p>As the first generation of coworking spaces begins to reach maturity, it’s gratifying to see this innovative model of working now permeating beyond the technology sector into other industries. Indeed, niche coworking communities are now emerging to serve particular disciplines outside tech.</p> <p>Tech investor Fred Wilson recently highlighted <a href="http://www.ingoodcompanyworkplaces.com/" target="_blank">In Good Company</a> and <a href="http://www.greenspaceshome.com/" target="_blank">Green Spaces</a><i> –</i> providing coworking services for female and green entrepreneurs, respectively — in a wide ranging post about <a href="http://www.avc.com/a_vc/2010/09/coworking-spaces.html" target="_blank">coworking spacess in New York</a>. Along with <a href="http://www.writersjunction.com/" target="_blank">The Writers Junction</a> in LA, which is tailored towards writers, it seems that these flexible work spaces are increasingly attractive to a broader demographic.</p> <h3>Green Spaces</h3> <div><a href="http://gigaom.com/collaboration/reimagining-coworking-for-writers-women-and-green-entrepreneurs/screen-shot-2010-09-02-at-23-11-27/" rel="attachment wp-att-153168" target="_blank"><img title="Screen shot 2010-09-02 at 23.11.27" src="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/09/screen-shot-2010-09-02-at-23-11-27.png?w=210&amp;h=38" height="38" alt="" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a>Currently operating in New York and Denver, <a href="http://www.greenspaceshome.com/" target="_blank">Green Spaces</a> is seeking to provide local incubators for environmental and sustainability entrepreneurs. Monthly plans range from $50/month to $495/month, covering everything from a hotdesking to a permanent desk, with drop-in access available from $20/day. The residents are certainly a diverse bunch with everything from concierge service providers and magazine publishers to activist organizations and green realtors. Green Spaces seems to be much more eclectic than simply being “green”;  it’s actually a hub for progressive people and projects.</div> <h3>In Good Company</h3> <div><a href="http://gigaom.com/collaboration/reimagining-coworking-for-writers-women-and-green-entrepreneurs/screen-shot-2010-09-02-at-23-11-09/" rel="attachment wp-att-153169" target="_blank"><img title="Screen shot 2010-09-02 at 23.11.09" src="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/09/screen-shot-2010-09-02-at-23-11-09.png?w=210&amp;h=108" height="108" alt="" style="margin: 5px;" width="210" /></a>Also based in New York, <a href="http://www.ingoodcompanyworkplaces.com/" target="_blank">In Good Company</a> is focused on supporting women entrepreneurs through a combination of events, office space and a program of training activities; coworking is just one of a number of its offerings.</div> <div><a href="http://www.greenspaceshome.com/pricing/" target="_blank">Pricing</a> is at the high-end of the coworking market, but there’s a lot of additional value (parties, events, supplier discounts) thrown into the mix. Plans vary from a flat $400/year community membership package to a number of full-time and part-time “work packages” that run from $150/month to $1,600/month that are inclusive of a number of hours of desk space or dedicated private office space.</div> <h3>The Writers Junction</h3> <p><a href="http://gigaom.com/collaboration/reimagining-coworking-for-writers-women-and-green-entrepreneurs/screen-shot-2010-09-02-at-23-11-37/" rel="attachment wp-att-153176" target="_blank"><img title="Screen shot 2010-09-02 at 23.11.37" src="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/09/screen-shot-2010-09-02-at-23-11-37.png?w=138&amp;h=140" height="140" alt="" style="margin: 5px;" width="138" /></a>Based in Los Angeles, <a href="http://www.writersjunction.com/" target="_blank">The Writers Junction</a>, as the name suggests, is a haven for writers of all persuasions. The membership plans offer full- and part-time usage from as low as $89/month up to $140/month. Residents include journalists, screenwriters, directors, doctoral students and actors.</p> <p>There’s a great <span><span> </span><a href="http://www.vimeo.com/12246548" target="_blank">two-minute video</a></span>, with commentary from community members, that underlines the warmth of what appears to be a modern-day artists’ commune.</p> <h3>Bringing Together Communities</h3> <p>Each of these coworking spaces appears to be successfully nurturing and serving the needs of communities that may have lacked a focal point or hub prior to having a physical home. I’ve heard rumors of a nearby town here in the U.K. that’s toying with the notion of a coworking space for physical fitness professionals — bringing together gym coaches, dieticians, physiotherapists and “wellbeing” professionals, among other healthcare disciplines. Could we be seeing a reboot for many industries that had previously remained ensconced in disconnected silos?</p> <p><b>Related GigaOM Pro content (sub req’d): </b><a href="http://pro.gigaom.com/2010/08/by-the-numbers-running-a-coworking-space/?utm_source=webworkerdaily&amp;utm_medium=editorial&amp;utm_content=simonmackie&amp;utm_campaign=related" target="_blank">By The Numbers: Running a Coworking Space</a></p> <p><i><span><span> </span><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hyku/2498202746/" target="_blank">Photo</a></span> by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hyku/" target="_blank">Flickr user Hyku</a>, licensed under <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/" target="_blank">CC 2.0</a></i></p> <img src="http://stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=gigaom.com&amp;blog=14960843&amp;post=153152&amp;subd=gigaom2&amp;ref=&amp;feed=1" border="0" height="1" alt="" width="1" /></div><p>9/3/2010</p></li><li><span><a href="http://gigaom.com/collaboration/coworking-by-the-numbers/" target="_blank">Coworking By The Numbers</a></span><div> <p><a href="http://webworkerdaily.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/citizenspace.jpg" target="_blank"><img title="citizenspace" src="http://webworkerdaily.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/citizenspace.jpg?w=300&amp;h=199" height="199" alt="" width="300" /></a>What’s it like running a coworking space? Can you make money doing it? Over on  GigaOM Pro (subscription required), Imran’s written an interesting article that takes an <a href="http://pro.gigaom.com/2010/08/by-the-numbers-running-a-coworking-space/?utm_source=webworkerdaily&amp;utm_medium=editorial&amp;utm_content=simonmackie&amp;utm_campaign=intext" target="_blank">in-depth look at the journey taken by two coworking spaces</a>: Philadelphia’s <a href="http://indyhall.org/" target="_blank">Independents Hall</a> (also known as IndyHall), and UK-based <a href="http://flythe.coop/" target="_blank">Fly The Coop</a>, in Manchester.</p> <p>In the article, Imran shares some key figures, such as the costs of running each space, and in the case of IndyHall, some fairly detailed revenue and profit/loss figures. One thing is clear from looking at the figures — coworking spaces run on <i>very</i> tight margins.</p> <p>To help boost their bottom line, coworking spaces need to look for additional revenue streams, but in a way that doesn’t adversely impact impact on their members — because these spaces are, effectively, communities. This is something that Imran <a href="http://webworkerdaily.com/2009/04/13/can-coworking-spaces-be-profitable/" target="_blank">has written about here on WWD before</a>, and previously suggested:</p> <ul><li>Charging drop-ins a small “pay as you go” fee for daily use, rather than the member’s traditional “pay monthly” subscriptions.</li><li>Reselling web hosting or magazine/service/software subscriptions.</li><li>Providing externally-sourced legal and accounting expertise, where suppliers pay referrals for access to the community.</li> <li>Providing innovative nutrition services from companies such as <a href="http://www.graze.com/" target="_blank">Graze</a>.</li><li>Leasing and renting meeting space to non-members for modest fees.</li><li>Hosting “master classes” and training courses for local businesses.</li> </ul> <p><i>What other innovative ways could coworking spaces boost their revenues without impacting their members?</i></p> <p><b>Related GigaOM Pro content (sub req.):</b> <a href="http://pro.gigaom.com/2010/08/by-the-numbers-running-a-coworking-space/?utm_source=webworkerdaily&amp;utm_medium=editorial&amp;utm_content=simonmackie&amp;utm_campaign=related" target="_blank">By The Numbers: Running a Coworking Space</a></p> <p><i><span><span> </span><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hyku/2497370097/" target="_blank">Photo</a></span> by Flickr user <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hyku/" target="_blank">hyku</a>, licensed under <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/deed.en" target="_blank">CC-BY-SA 2.0</a></i></p> <img src="http://stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=gigaom.com&amp;blog=14960843&amp;post=36846&amp;subd=gigaom2&amp;ref=&amp;feed=1" border="0" height="1" alt="" width="1" /></div><p>8/6/2010</p></li><li><span><a href="http://gigaom.com/collaboration/7-tips-for-making-the-most-of-your-coworking-space/" target="_blank">7 Tips for Making the Most of Your Coworking Space</a></span><div> <p><a href="http://webworkerdaily.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/citizenspace.jpg" target="_blank"><img title="citizenspace" src="http://webworkerdaily.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/citizenspace.jpg?w=300&amp;h=199" height="199" alt="" width="300" /></a>So, you’ve decided that you need to get out of the house and are looking for a <span><span> </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coworking" target="_blank">coworking space</a></span>. But how do you make the most of the experience? Here are some of my favorite coworking tips:</p> <ol><li><b>Choose your space carefully.</b> If you’re lucky enough to live in a large city with a choice of coworking spaces, it’s worth looking at more than just the facilities that the space offers. Obviously you want to work in a nice environment, but it’s worth checking out the current mix of members, and see what activities and social events the space offers. Some spaces also offer additional services, like mentorship or the <a href="http://coworking.pbworks.com/CoworkingVisa" target="_blank">Coworking Visa program</a> (see tip #7 ), that are worth considering. One of the main reasons to join a coworking space is the community. Personally, I like spaces with a very diverse membership as it seems to spark my creativity — mixing with people from other industries gives me new perspectives. Try working at your chosen space for a day or two to see how you get on with the building, the facilities and the current members before taking out a full membership.</li><li><b>Invest in a decent pair of headphones</b>. If you’re used to working on your own, moving to a hybrid coffee shop / office environment can be quite distracting — it can be hard to concentrate on your work when there are a bunch of interesting conversations happening. It’s worth investing in a decent pair of headphones for those times you need to crank out some work. However, you shouldn’t wear them all the time — see the next tip!</li><li><b>Get to know the other members</b>. Part of the reason for joining a coworking space in the first place is the social aspect — so take the headphones off and talk to people when you can. Go out to lunch with the other members. It’s worth getting to know everyone, because you never know what business opportunities could arise out of your conversations — and it’s also great just to have a few people to bounce ideas off.</li><li><b>Respect the space.</b> Each space will have its own house rules that you should obviously stick to (<a href="http://citizenspace.us/about/house-rules/" target="_blank">here are Citizen Space’s</a>, for example), but regardless of house rules, use your common sense and courtesy. You’re now in a shared environment, so don’t leave dirty coffee mugs or plates lying around for others to tidy up, don’t touch anyone else’s food, don’t leave your gear all over the place, don’t hog the best spots in the office and don’t make unnecessary noise when others are trying to work.</li><li><b>Use the space to its fullest. </b>If your space allows it, why not organize some events? You could bring in guest speakers on all kinds of interesting topics. It’ll help to bring the community together, will provide promotional opportunities for you and should be a lot of fun. Even if member-run events are not something that’s encouraged, it’s worth talking to the founder or manager — they’d probably view an event as an excellent opportunity to promote the space.</li><li><b>Work in the cloud.</b> It’s unlikely that you’ll be working solely from your coworking space. And while you’ll probably use a laptop while at your coworking space, it’s worth using cloud-based web apps (Google Docs and Zoho, for example) to provide seamless working between machines and locations.</li><li><b>Take advantage of the Coworking Visa program.</b> If your space belongs to the <a href="http://coworking.pbworks.com/CoworkingVisa" target="_blank">Coworking Visa</a> program, it means that you can work for free in other participating locations all over the world. It’s an excellent way to find a cool place to work while you’re on the road, and also a great way to expand your network.</li></ol> <p><i>How do you make the most of your coworking space? Share your tips in the comments.</i></p> <p><b>Related GigaOM Pro content (sub. req.):</b> <a href="http://pro.gigaom.com/2010/06/making-coworking-corporate-scale/?utm_source=webworkerdaily&amp;utm_medium=editorial&amp;utm_content=simonmackie&amp;utm_campaign=related" target="_blank">Making Coworking Corporate-Scale</a></p> <p><i><span><span> </span><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hyku/2497370097/" target="_blank">Photo</a></span> by Flickr user <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hyku/" target="_blank">hyku</a>, licensed under <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/deed.en" target="_blank">CC-BY-SA 2.0</a></i></p> <img src="http://stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=gigaom.com&amp;blog=14960843&amp;post=35739&amp;subd=gigaom2&amp;ref=&amp;feed=1" border="0" height="1" alt="" width="1" /></div><p>7/12/2010</p></li><li><span><a href="http://gigaom.com/collaboration/get-more-done-with-a-work-buddy/" target="_blank">Get More Done With a Work Buddy</a></span><div> <p><a href="http://webworkerdaily.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/workbuddy.jpg" target="_blank"><img title="workbuddy" src="http://webworkerdaily.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/workbuddy.jpg?w=300&amp;h=225" height="225" alt="" width="300" /></a>For the past month, I’ve been working with a “work buddy”. She helps me stay on track with my projects, keeps me focused when I’m not feeling motivated, and gives me professional advice. She has become my go-to person for almost every concern I have with work, and I try to pay it back by doing the same things for her.</p> <p>I find that since we’ve started this new working relationship, my output has become more consistent, and I’ve also had the time to work on side projects that I was “too busy” to try before. On her end, she tells me that my encouragement helped her start work on a stagnant project. Apart from improving productivity, here are the other benefits we’ve experienced as “work buddies”:</p> <ul><li><b>More creative problem-solving. </b>When you’re too close to a problem, it’s hard to find outside-the-box solutions. This is no surprise since <a href="http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=an-easy-way-to-increase-c" title="you need some amount of psychological distance to see the problem in a new light" target="_blank">you need some amount of psychological distance to see the problem in a new light</a>. Your work buddy might have the right amount of distance from the problem to help you find new solutions you wouldn’t have been able to think of yourself.</li><li><b>Obstacles seem easier.</b> Even the biggest project can seem easier to achieve with the right work buddy. According to <a href="http://www.sciencedirect.com/science?_ob=ArticleURL&amp;_udi=B6WJB-4SGKBCV-1&amp;_user=10&amp;_coverDate=09%2F30%2F2008&amp;_rdoc=1&amp;_fmt=high&amp;_orig=search&amp;_sort=d&amp;_docanchor=&amp;view=c&amp;_searchStrId=1367037522&amp;_rerunOrigin=google&amp;_acct=C000050221&amp;_version=1&amp;_urlVersion=0&amp;_userid=10&amp;md5=e0fbf3107daa0255f6a7d0d8ae4a79c9" title="one study" target="_blank">one study</a>, social support from a friend can make hills seem less steep. So don’t be surprised if your to-do list seems shorter with the right person supporting you.</li><li><b>Collaboration. </b>Apart from providing you with emotional support, your work buddy can also give you more opportunities to collaborate on exciting projects – no matter how informal they may be.</li></ul> <p>If you’re going through a rough time professionally, or if you simply need your own personal support group, finding a work buddy might be a good solution for you. It’s just a matter of finding the right person. Ideally, your work buddy should be:</p> <ul><li><b>Someone you respect.</b> For me, this is the most important criterion for choosing a work buddy. By choosing someone you respect, both professionally and personally, you are less likely to waste their time and more likely to make the most out of the relationship.</li><li><b>Someone who understands your work.</b> As Dawn <a href="http://webworkerdaily.com/2008/12/29/so-what-do-you-do/" title="pointed out in a previous post" target="_blank">pointed out in a previous post</a>, explaining most web working jobs to the uninitiated can be difficult. Your work buddy should understand enough of your work to give you constructive feedback, make suggestions, listen to your complaints and recognize your accomplishments. Someone who knows your work well is more likely to engage you in more meaningful exchanges, rather than just blank stares or insincere one-liners.</li><li><b>Someone who knows how to deal with you.</b> Your work buddy should also be someone who knows the right things to say or do that will motivate you to keep working. He or she should know how to push you when others are telling you to take it easy.</li><li><b>Someone who also needs your help.</b> For this to work, the two of you have to need each other, or else the relationship is going to feel one-sided. This could be someone who needs your skills, experience, network or even just your unique insight.</li></ul> <p>Other, more specific traits may depend on what you need. For example, you might need someone who works as a logo designer or has experience in leading a team. Be aware of these specifics so that you can come up with a clearer picture of who your ideal work buddy should be like.</p> <p><i>Have you ever had a friend or colleague who helped you become more productive? What was your experience like with that kind of relationship?</i></p> <p><i><span><span> </span><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/vek/3523220126/" target="_blank">Photo</a></span> by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/vek/" target="_blank">flickr user vek</a></i></p> <img src="http://stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=gigaom.com&amp;blog=14960843&amp;post=34326&amp;subd=gigaom2&amp;ref=&amp;feed=1" border="0" height="1" alt="" width="1" /></div><p>6/14/2010</p></li><li><span><a href="http://gigaom.com/collaboration/open-thread-what-can-corporations-learn-from-web-workers/" target="_blank">Open Thread: What Can Corporations Learn From Web Workers?</a></span><div> <p><a href="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/coworking.jpg" target="_blank"><img title="coworking" src="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/coworking.jpg?w=300&amp;h=194" height="194" alt="" width="300" /></a>I believe there are valuable lessons that corporations can take from web workers to help their employees adapt in the future. After all, many of our struggles will be experienced by corporations and their employees over the next few years as more of them adopt flexible working practices.</p> <p>My latest post over on GigaOM Pro, “<a href="http://pro.gigaom.com/2010/06/making-coworking-corporate-scale/?utm_source=webworkerdaily&amp;utm_medium=editorial&amp;utm_content=simonmackie&amp;utm_campaign=crosspost" target="_blank">Making Coworking Corporate-scale</a>,” (subscription required) is an exploration of how the coworking model could be adapted by corporations for use down the road — though shared coworking campuses — and the benefits it could provide. I also identify some of the aspects of coworking that can be applied today.</p> <p>For a lone freelancer, coworking provides many benefits: an office-like location away from the home, networking opportunities and more. For corporations, a coworking model could provide increased flexibility, an enhanced spirit of innovation and collaboration, and lower real estate costs and facilities management overhead.</p> <p>And coworking’s not the only thing from the current web working world that could be adapted for corporations. I envisage common web worker time management and  productivity tricks like <a href="http://webworkerdaily.com/tag/gtd/" target="_blank">Getting Things Done (GTD)</a> and <a href="http://webworkerdaily.com/2009/10/08/the-pomodoro-technique-another-option-for-getting-things-done-and-staying-focused/" target="_blank">the Pomodoro Technique</a>, for example, working just as well in larger organizations. There’s also the range of technology and web apps that we use — particularly for remote collaboration — that could prove useful if adapted to work on a corporate scale.</p> <p><i>WWD readers are at the cutting edge of web working. </i><i>What else can corporations learn from your experiences?</i></p> <img src="http://stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=gigaom.com&amp;blog=14960843&amp;post=33719&amp;subd=gigaom2&amp;ref=&amp;feed=1" border="0" height="1" alt="" width="1" /></div><p>6/1/2010</p></li><li><span><a href="http://gigaom.com/collaboration/change-of-address/" target="_blank">Change of Address</a></span><div> <p><a href="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/05/mailbox.jpg" target="_blank"><img title="mailbox" src="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/05/mailbox.jpg?w=252&amp;h=251" height="251" alt="" style="margin-left: 8px; margin-right: 8px;" width="252" /></a>A while back I wrote about <a href="http://webworkerdaily.com/2009/07/02/why-i-dont-hide-that-i-work-at-home/" target="_blank">the reasons that I didn’t hide that I work from home</a>. However, something has gradually changed my mind the past few months: the desire for privacy.</p> <p>As my business grew, so did the distribution of my business card, which contained my home phone number and address. I grew uncomfortable with the wide distribution of my personal contact information. I was surprised at how exposed this made me feel, especially my personal address being on the footer of my new newsletter that is now distributed to 1,000 people each week.</p> <p>I decided to reclaim my personal privacy by moving my business’s location out of my home.<span></span></p> <p>For my business, the perfect solution was the “business location service” offered by my coworking facility. Similar services are offered by many coworking operations. The service provides my company use of the facility’s mailing address, and also a dedicated toll-free number answered by the facility’s receptionist. Now callers will be greeted by the ever-cheerful Lateesha, instead of probably getting my personal answering machine.</p> <p>Since I didn’t physically move locations, there were no boxes to pack. But as I have been discovering, even moving a business on paper is an involved process that has financial costs.</p> <p>Just like when you move your home, there are many places to notify of your new address. Instead of their driver’s license, business owners have to change their business license. A business may have multiple licenses: state, county and city. You’ll need to check with each to find out how to change your address, and there may be fees involved. For instance, it cost me $25 to file my change with the State of Florida. To notify the U.S. Internal Revenue Service of your change of address, fill out <a href="http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=107477,00.html" target="_blank">form 8822</a> and mail it in.</p> <p>Next up, you’ll need to change the address on your bank accounts, credit accounts, merchant accounts, and payment services such as Paypal or Square. Changing these addresses will cause some expense because you’ll need to re-order any supplies such as checks and deposit slips that have the address on them. Avoid using your bank to purchase these supplies, and use an outside printing service instead, such as <a href="http://www.checksunlimited.com/" target="_blank">Checks Unlimited</a>, to save money. I saved 75 percent on my new banking supplies doing this. Make sure you change the addresses on the accounts before ordering the new supplies as the printer may verify the information with the bank.</p> <p>After updating your financial accounts, you’ll need to change the billing address on any place where you are using that account (such as for auto-billing).</p> <p>Two other groups will need to be notified of your “move”: vendors and clients. How you do this will depend on how many you have, and how you usually communicate with them. You can mail postcards (another expense), send emails, or attach notices to payments  bills you send. (If you use accounting software, don’t forget to update it to print your new address on forms.) Since your old address will continue to work, this can be done gradually.</p> <p>Where else is your address hiding? It could be in your email signature, at your domain registrar, on your website, or in social media profiles. It’s likely on your business cards (and letterhead, if you use it), which is another expense. Inevitably, the address will pop up somewhere you’ve missed. It’s a big project, but I expect the result to be increased privacy and professionalism.</p> <p><i>Do you use a business location service? Why?</i></p> <p><b>Related GigaOM Pro content (sub. req.):</b> <a href="http://pro.gigaom.com/2009/05/enabling-the-web-work-revolution/?utm_source=webworkerdaily&amp;utm_medium=editorial&amp;utm_content=simonmackie&amp;utm_campaign=related" title="Enabling the Web Work Revolution" target="_blank">Enabling the Web Work Revolution</a></p> <img src="http://stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=gigaom.com&amp;blog=14960843&amp;post=33645&amp;subd=gigaom2&amp;ref=&amp;feed=1" border="0" height="1" alt="" width="1" /></div><p>5/31/2010</p></li><li><span><a href="http://gigaom.com/collaboration/coworking-stop-sharing-your-office-with-your-worst-critic/" target="_blank">Coworking: Stop Sharing Your Office With Your Worst Critic</a></span><div> <p><a href="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/homeofficework.jpg" target="_blank"><img title="HomeOfficeWork" src="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/04/homeofficework.jpg?w=315&amp;h=210" height="210" alt="" style="margin-left: 0pt; margin-right: 6px;" width="315" /></a>After experimenting with coworking for a short time, I wrote about <a href="http://webworkerdaily.com/2010/01/20/a-coworking-experiment/" target="_blank">how I had gone from being skeptical about it to a convert</a>. The connections I made, and the lack of interruptions, were enough to overcome my resistance to its cost and the commute. Since then, though, I’ve realized there’s something else that makes coworking even more appealing.</p> <p>One major benefit of coworking is escaping the things in our home offices that make it difficult to work and be productive. The home environment, of course, is full of distractions and interruptions. We’re pulled by unfinished personal projects, interrupted by personal phone calls and knocks on the door, and tempted by many enjoyable ways to procrastinate.</p> <p>But more than anywhere else, our most vulnerable moments occur at home. It’s where we worry that we aren’t doing the right things for our kids, and where we stare in the mirror and call ourselves ugly. It is where we open ourselves up the most. Consequently, home isn’t just where we live. It’s where our insecurities live, too.</p> <p>Working from home often means not having someone right there with us to validate decisions or keep us and our business pointed in the right direction. We have to keep going, doing things while being confident from within ourselves that we are on the right path. That confidence, I’m finding, can be difficult to maintain when you work in a home office surrounded by reminders of your personal insecurities.</p> <p>Leaving my home office to work seems to have the effect of putting away those insecurities. I literally just leave them at home. Putting on decent clothes to go to my coworking space is like putting on armor that keeps the insecurities at bay and lets me be at my professional best. Being around other people who treat me like the professional that I am reminds me to focus on my accomplishments, not my inner critic. In an outside office, I’m not surrounded by reminders that I’m a terrible housekeeper or of all my unfinished projects. Decisions are made faster and with more confidence. I can be more productive, and what I produce feels like better quality to me.</p> <p>As <a href="http://webworkerdaily.com/2009/12/28/dressing-the-part-how-important-are-business-clothes-if-you-work-from-home/" target="_blank">Celine wrote a few months ago</a>, some home office workers put on business clothes to work in their home offices to get a similar effect on their productivity. While I do find that dressing better to work at home helps a little, nothing has been as effective for me as getting out of my home office and seeking a new environment entirely.</p> <p>We are all our own worst critics. When your only office mate is that critic, it’s easy to listen to that criticism and let it get to you.</p> <p><i>Have you found any unexpected benefits from coworking?</i></p> <p><i>Photo by iClipart.</i></p> <p><b>Related GigaOM Pro content (sub. req.):</b> <a href="http://pro.gigaom.com/2009/05/enabling-the-web-work-revolution/" target="_blank">Enabling the Web Work Revolution</a></p> <img src="http://stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=gigaom.com&amp;blog=14960843&amp;post=30844&amp;subd=gigaom2&amp;ref=&amp;feed=1" border="0" height="1" alt="" width="1" /></div><p>4/6/2010</p></li><li><span><a href="http://gigaom.com/collaboration/remote-workers-should-lead-the-charge-for-new-mobile-tech/" target="_blank">Remote Workers Should Lead the Charge for New Mobile Tech</a></span><div> <p><a href="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/trumpet-icon.png" target="_blank"><img title="Trumpet-icon" src="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/trumpet-icon.png?w=256&amp;h=256" height="256" alt="" width="256" /></a>Lately I’m all about taking chances on tech that may or may not improve how I work and what I get done. It can be expensive, but it’s fun and (most of the time) it’s deductible, too. I do it because one of my few hobbies includes being an early adopter of new tech, but recently I’ve been thinking that there’s probably more to it than that.</p> <p>The fact is that companies aren’t willing to field test new mobile tech unless they receive a huge incentive to do so. Breaking ground with new tech often falls then to freelancers and contractors who have a greater degree of freedom regarding choice of tools they use. Not only is it just plain cool that field testing new toys often falls to us and then trickles up, it’s also a responsibility I think web workers and the places that support them should openly and actively embrace.</p> <p>Sometimes this means taking a risk with your money and investing in something relatively untested, but that’s not necessarily what I mean to encourage. Some may not be so quick to drop hard-earned cash on things that might end up collecting dust on a closet shelf. You don’t always have to spend your own money to test things, though. There are ways to have your cake and eat it, too.</p> <p>Firstly, if you think you can make a strong enough case, you can roll equipment and software purchase or rental costs into your contract price. This can work more often than you’d think, partly because companies like to spend money on software and equipment since it makes them feel like they’ll have a greater chance of getting a quality product back. I still can’t really get over how many times I’ve been asked to suggest a paid alternative to the free tools that I’ve written into contracts.</p> <p>Secondly, you could ask for things you want to try out to be adopted at the places you frequent for work. That could mean the local coffee shop, or it could be your neighborhood coworking office, if you’re lucky enough to have one. For example, I’d like to get <a href="http://hardware.slashdot.org/story/09/08/17/1933207/Wireless-Power-Consortium-Pushes-for-Qi-Standard" target="_blank">Qi-standard wireless induction charging</a> pads to be made available at my own coworking haunt. It wouldn’t be hard, since there are even inexpensive Nintendo Wii charging accessories using that standard. You may face resistance and skepticism, but if a few others support your argument, you shouldn’t have too much trouble working something out.</p> <p>Helping to discover and spread the word about new mobile tech advances is rewarding in its own right, but it also benefits you as a web working professional. You’ll be occupying the cutting edge, and it’ll show in the products you deliver and in how knowledgeable you come across to employers and peers. That’s worth the price of a few duds, even if you are buying your own gear instead of folding it into contracts.</p> <p><i>Does anyone else feel that part of their role as a web worker is to test out new things, or is it just my way of justifying an extreme gadget-buying process addiction?<br /> </i></p> <img src="http://stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=gigaom.com&amp;blog=14960843&amp;post=30411&amp;subd=gigaom2&amp;ref=&amp;feed=1" border="0" height="1" alt="" width="1" /></div><p>3/25/2010</p></li><li><span><a href="http://gigaom.com/collaboration/a-visit-to-colab-orlando/" target="_blank">A Visit to CoLab Orlando</a></span><div> <p><a href="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/colab-logo.jpg" target="_blank"><img title="CoLab-Logo" src="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/colab-logo.jpg?w=210&amp;h=83" height="83" alt="" style="margin-left: 6px; margin-right: 6px;" width="210" /></a>After spending the past few months getting the hang of coworking in my small town, I was intrigued to check out what coworking is like in a larger facility in a large city. What I discovered in visiting <a href="http://orlando.colabusa.com/" target="_blank">CoLab Orlando</a> is that the important difference in size isn’t in the physical facility. It’s in the community created within it.</p> <p>CoLab Orlando is located in the historic Angebilt building in downtown Orlando, Fla. Originally occupying part of the sixth floor when it opened, CoLab expanded last year to include half of the eighth floor as well by taking over space previously occupied by a local university business incubator that had lost its funding. CoLab is now in the process of expanding again, by adding space on the building’s ninth floor in the near future.</p> <p><a href="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/colab-common-area.jpg" target="_blank"><img title="CoLab-Common-Area" src="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/colab-common-area.jpg?w=300&amp;h=200" height="200" alt="" style="margin-left: 6px; margin-right: 6px;" width="300" /></a>Two distinctly different types of membership are offered at CoLab Orlando. First there are more traditional coworking membership arrangements, where members pay to have access for a certain amount of time during the month to CoLab’s common work area, conference rooms and business equipment. These members also get the use of CoLab’s address for their business. Prices for these memberships start at $50 per month for four visits, and go up to $199 for a full-time membership.</p> <p>The second type of membership at CoLab involves full-time dedicated suite rentals. Prices for these memberships depends on the size and type of suite included in them (corner suites with more windows cost extra, for instance). Dedicated suite prices start at $375 per month for a 10ft x 14ft suite and go to $1500 per month for a 500 sq. ft. suite.</p> <p>All CoLab members get access to the facility’s high-speed Internet service, printer/fax/ copier/scanner, conference rooms and coffee facilities. CoLab also hosts one or two free events per month for its members, along with a “Free Friday” coworking event for non-members.</p> <p>The coworking common area at CoLab is definitely underutilized. It was virtually deserted on the Monday afternoon that I visited, although I was told a few members use it on a regular basis. This is likely because CoLab’s suites are so affordable that they are packed to the rafters with small businesses. If you have someone to share a suite with you can have dedicated space for around the same cost as using the common area full-time.</p> <p><a href="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/small-colab-suite.jpg" target="_blank"><img title="Small-CoLab-Suite" src="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/small-colab-suite.jpg?w=450&amp;h=348" height="348" alt="" width="450" /></a></p> <p>Not unexpectedly, most of the companies occupying suite space at CoLab Orlando seem to be tech companies. I visited with developers at <a href="http://envylabs.com/" target="_blank">Envy Labs</a> and with Internet advertising specialists <a href="http://www.enjoytaste.com/" target="_blank">Enjoy Taste</a>. The suites I toured were all occupied by multiple people. Despite the full-time suite rentals, CoLab’s population shifts on a daily basis. Many suite occupants said they work from home some days and come to the office when they need to collaborate with others or meet with clients.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/envy-labs.jpg" target="_blank"><img title="Envy-Labs" src="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/envy-labs.jpg?w=450&amp;h=311" height="311" alt="" width="450" /></a></p> <p>The prevalent decor aesthetic in the facility’s suites seems to be Ikea furniture and bright color. Unlike in many office rentals, personalizing suite spaces through the use of paint and decor is encouraged. The results are far-from-usual office spaces with lots of evident personality. For instance, when I visited the suite of Envy Labs, I was treated to their collection of handmade robots.</p> <p><a href="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/envy-labs-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img title="Envy-Labs-2" src="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/envy-labs-2.jpg?w=450&amp;h=300" height="300" alt="" width="450" /></a></p> <p>Overall, CoLab’s suites — and the people in them — give an impression of being bright, welcoming and fun. The feeling of positive energy in CoLab was palpable, and co-founder John Todero stressed, “Energy is what sells the place.” Doors of many of the occupied suites were open as I walked around, inviting contact with other residents. Many of the resident companies, I was told, work with each other on projects.</p> <p>Because so many of the residents aren’t solo coworkers, but are instead small start-up companies, CoLab is almost more of a business incubator than a coworking space. Whatever you want to call it, the energy and enthusiasm within its walls is contagious.</p> <p><i>Does the idea of an incubator-style suite appeal to you more than traditional office space might? </i></p> <p><b>Related GigaOM Pro content (sub. req.):</b><i> </i><a href="http://pro.gigaom.com/2009/05/enabling-the-web-work-revolution/" target="_blank">Enabling the Web Work Revolution</a></p> <img src="http://stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=gigaom.com&amp;blog=14960843&amp;post=29938&amp;subd=gigaom2&amp;ref=&amp;feed=1" border="0" height="1" alt="" width="1" /></div><p>3/16/2010</p></li><li><span><a href="http://gigaom.com/collaboration/cutting-costs-take-the-office-out-of-the-home/" target="_blank">Cutting Costs: Take the Office Out of the Home</a></span><div> <p><img title="rent-sign" src="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/02/rent-sign.gif?w=283&amp;h=215" height="215" alt="" width="283" />Just like any other business, your freelancing practice will do much better overall if you regularly conduct an efficiency review and try to cut costs where possible. I’ll be looking at a number of ways to do so in a series of “Cutting Costs” posts, starting today with one cost-saving measure I’m in the process of working out myself.</p> <p>My first cost-cutting measure is a big one, because I’m looking to free up a significant amount of cash in one fell swoop, and the timing is convenient. My lease is up in a few short weeks, and so I’m already on the lookout for cheaper accommodation. I live in downtown Toronto, and my place is bigger than one person needs because I wanted to have enough space for a home office. My rent is accordingly quite expensive. <span></span></p> <p>Luckily, working from home doesn’t necessarily mean working from home all of the time, so this time around I’m willing to make concessions regarding space (and location) in the interest of saving significantly in terms of my monthly rent. Instead of a one-bedroom-plus-den, which I have now, I’ll be looking for a one-bedroom place, which in this market might amount to as much as $700 in savings, depending on where I end up relocating.</p> <p>To make up for the lost space, I plan on spending much more time working away from home. I have a three-part approach to accomplishing this, which should ensure that my routine stays varied enough to remain interesting, and has some built-in redundancy to ensure I always have somewhere to go to work that isn’t my own apartment.</p> <h3>Coworking/External Office Space</h3> <p>The first and primary part of my plan is to use a largish portion of the money I save in rent to pay for a membership at a newly opened coworking venture here in the city. It’s called <a href="http://camaraderie.ca/" target="_blank">Camaraderie</a>, and it’s conveniently located relatively close to the area I’m looking to move to. Membership fees are $300 per month, which guarantees you a spot during working hours, including free Wi-Fi and hot beverages.</p> <p>It’s a deal that can’t be matched by renting office space alone in the downtown area, but if you live somewhere that isn’t a major metropolitan area and that doesn’t have a local coworking space, try looking around for office space rentals, and see if they might not be cheaper than maintaining the larger place you’re using now as your living/work space. You might be surprised at how much money you can save this way. Even the savings represented by being able to choose a lower-cost Internet plan for home and savings on tea and coffee spend are significant.</p> <h3>Museum/Gallery/Library Memberships</h3> <p>The second part of my office/house separation plan involves simply maintaining the library, museum and other public space memberships <a href="http://webworkerdaily.com/2009/03/03/shake-things-up-alter-your-routine-to-improve-productivity/" target="_blank">I already have</a>. Library cards are free in most cases (or at least they are here in Canada) as long as you can prove residence, and museum and gallery annual memberships generally aren’t that expensive.</p> <p>It’s like having coworking space, except you’ll often be the only one working and it’s an interesting environment. There might not be coffee immediately available, though, which is why step three is a great old stand-by.</p> <h3>Starbucks/Coffee Shop</h3> <p>Never underestimate this old time-tested web working buddy. The coffee shop will save your sanity time and time again. If you’re in a dense urban area or have access to a car, this one should be the easiest of the three steps to get a handle on. My advice is to find an independent place with low turnover, because you’ll get the familiarity benefits of an office setting without all the downside of an actual office.</p> <p>All told, it looks like I might be able to shave between $300 and $400 a month off of my budget, all by accepting a move to a slightly smaller space and adding some coworking to my routine, something I’ve been hoping to do more of anyway; not a bad cost-cutting measure by any means.</p> <p><i>Have to tried downsizing your home office to cut costs? How did it work out?</i></p> <img src="http://stats.wordpress.com/b.gif?host=gigaom.com&amp;blog=14960843&amp;post=28712&amp;subd=gigaom2&amp;ref=&amp;feed=1" border="0" height="1" alt="" width="1" /></div><p>2/23/2010</p></li><li><span><a href="http://gigaom.com/collaboration/coworking-stories-manchester%e2%80%99s-madlab/" target="_blank">Coworking Stories: Manchester’s MadLab</a></span><div> <p>A little over a year ago, I wrote about <a href="http://webworkerdaily.com/2009/01/06/coworking-taking-root-across-northern-england/" target="_blank">coworking taking root across the North of England</a>, with five coworking communities either side of the Pennine mountains, strung along the <span><span> </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M62%20motorway" target="_blank">M62 corridor</a></span>. More recently, “<a href="http://hackspace.org.uk/" target="_blank">hackspaces</a>“ have also begun to spring up around the UK, drawing in people involved in “<span><span> </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Make%20%28magazine%29" target="_blank">make</a></span>“ groups and a wider community of technologists.</p> <p><img title="MadLab" src="http://gigaom2.files.wordpress.com/2010/02/picture-9.png?w=300&amp;h=173" height="173" alt="" width="300" />Last month, Manchester saw its first coworking community — <a href="http://www.flythecoop.co.uk/" target="_blank">FlyThe.Coop</a> — move to a new location shared with the recently-launched <a href="http://madlab.org.uk/" target="_blank">MadLab</a> hackspace. MadLab, also known as the Manchester Digital Laboratory, describes itself as:</p> <blockquote class="posterous_medium_quote"><p>“a community space for people who want to do and make interesting stuff — a place for geeks, artists, designers, illustrators, hackers, tinkerers, innovators and idle dreamers; an autonomous R&amp;D laboratory and a release valve for Manchester’s creative communities”</p></blockquote> <p>Last week, I got the chance to talk to one of MadLab’s four founders, <span><span> </span><a href="http://twitter.com/davemee" target="_blank">Dave Mee</a></span>, about the vision for MadLab, its history, its residents, the challenges it has faced, and his advice for other coworking space founders.<span></span></p> <p><b>Imran Ali: </b><i>Tell us a little about the background of MadLab. What were the motivations of the founders?</i></p> <p><b>Dave Mee:</b> We spent a lot of time around hacker user groups and communities, and often found ourselves in pubs for the events they held. Pubs aren’t great locations for these events: Projectors wouldn’t work, DJs would show up halfway through presentations, and generally they’re not geared up for reliable Wi-Fi and soldering, particularly with alcohol around. At the same time, we saw there were no real alternatives; other presentation spaces were either too expensive, lacked facilities, or were too far out for people to get to.</p> <p>At the same time, we missed some of the events we were used to from London: <a href="http://dorkbot.org/" target="_blank">DorkBot</a>, Flash user groups, <a href="http://www.meetup.com/minibar/" target="_blank">MiniBar</a>, the <a href="http://www.takeawayfestival.com/" target="_blank">Takeaway festival</a>. The was the talent, passion and eagerness for these things to start in Manchester, but without the infrastructure to support bottom-up cultural activity, they never could get off the ground and move beyond being meet-and-drink events.</p> <p>We spoke with people around the city; there’s a vibrant <a href="http://socialmediacafemanchester.pbworks.com/" target="_blank">Social Media Cafe</a> in Machester, and this provided a great way to get involved with many of the people and institutions that supported us as we set the project up. The <a href="http://www.manchesterdda.com/" target="_blank">Manchester Digital Development Agency</a> (MDDA) were a great ally early on, and</p></div></li></ul> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/what-is-coworking">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-1065940020598963687?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-38166550994349726092010-09-10T12:08:00.001-07:002010-09-10T12:08:41.960-07:00Dealing with a challenging day in a musical way<div class='posterous_autopost'><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><img title="0904wealth_jayz_main" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/08/0904wealth_jayz_main-300x154.jpg" height="154" alt="vancouver office space 0904wealth jayz main 300x154 Dealing with a challenging day in a musical way" width="300" /></p> <p>After a long rough day, especially a day where it all feels all overwhelming.  I turn up “Dirt off your shoulder” by Jay-Z real loud! <span><span> </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jay-Z" target="_blank">Jay-Z</a></span> is an inspiration to me, he came from the ghetto to creating an empire and becoming one of the richest man in America.</p> <p>I hope you will enjoy this song as much as I do! <object height="417" width="500"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Oz_-VaTHpc8&hl=en&fs=1" /></param><param name="wmode" value="window" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /></param><embed allowfullscreen="true" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Oz_-VaTHpc8&hl=en&fs=1" wmode="window" allowscriptaccess="always" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" height="417" width="500"></embed></object></p>  <span><span></span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jay-Z" target="_blank">Jay-Z</a></span>‘s most inspiring quote: “I’m not a businessman, I’m a business, man. Let me handle my business, damn! <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/dealing-with-a-challenging-day-in-a-musical-w">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-3816655099434972609?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-43094466635285139562010-09-10T12:04:00.001-07:002010-09-10T12:04:36.435-07:00Afraid to get dirty? Entrepreneurship might not be for you<div class='posterous_autopost'><p> </p> <p><img title="princess-crown-and-scepter-eps-thumb8065422" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/08/princess-crown-and-scepter-eps-thumb8065422-256x300.jpg" height="189" alt="vancouver office space princess crown and scepter eps thumb8065422 256x300 Afraid to get dirty? Entrepreneurship might not be for you" width="161" />OK, so you started your own business because you heard on <span><span> </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MTV" target="_blank">MTV</a></span> it leads you to more bling and bigger rims.  And your crib(s) get decked out in fur and hot tubs.  Oh yeah, you will magically get people to do all the mundane boring work for you.  Please allow me to shatter the rosy illusions.</p> <h2>You have to do things you might not want to</h2> <p>It was our first year in operation for <span><span> </span><a href="http://twitter.com/thenetworkhub" target="_blank">The Network Hub</a></span> and I was cleaning the washroom when a fellow entrepreneur walked by and balked, “Minna you are the boss. Why are you cleaning the toilet?” and all I could say was, “It had to be done.”  There are a lot of people who would rather spend time on doing things they like and have some one else deal with the things they do not want to do – things that they deem to be beneath them.</p> <h2>You have to execute, you can’t hide behind the computer</h2> <p>“But I’m an idea person” is the usual excuse. I want to say there are a lot of idea people but a lack of people who can execute the idea.  This might mean – for a lot of people – getting out of the office and finding customers. Or in my case, making sure the office is beautiful and clean so people want to be here.  I am not talking about impossible specialized tasks which you should leave to the experts, I’m talking about doing things that are necessary for your business.</p> <h2>You work really long hours for little pay</h2> <p>The hours you have to put in are grueling but you have to bear it out and that’s why, if you are in it for the money, sorry to tell you, there isn’t that much – if any – at the beginning.  This also means you have to spend most of your hours dealing with things you might not like such as accounting, bookkeeping, operations, management but you have to do what you hate in order to succeed in the startup world.</p> <p>When you feel so tired after long hours of work that you want to throw up, you have to shake it off and get back to it.  There is no jacuzzi or hot tub to sit back in. In fact there isn’t anyone or anything but you and your partners to do whatever it takes to see the business through.  Once your ideas have materialized, it is a beautiful thing.</p> <p>Today we have multiple companies in our space; entrepreneurs all around us who are going through the same struggle and every one supports each other.  We built our own peer-to-peer support entrepreneur/freelancers/mobile professional community that allows each of us to take our companies to the next level.</p> <p>Sitting back, I am in awe of what my partners and I have built with our sweat and tears but it was all worth it.  Believe me, the struggle is not over.  We are going through growth and that in itself presents different challenges but with the persistence and lessons we learned starting our business, we will make it through the next phase of business.</p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/afraid-to-get-dirty-entrepreneurship-might-no">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-4309446663528513956?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-40605473347154691862010-09-10T11:59:00.001-07:002010-09-10T11:59:02.309-07:00Coffee shop versus coworking<div class='posterous_autopost'>Coffee shops have a special place in my heart – especially <a href="http://dinehere.ca/vancouver/grind-gallery-coffee-bar-the" target="_blank">The Grind</a> on Main Street.  It was THE place for me to study at all hours when I was at SFU. If it weren’t the kindness of the staff, the unlimited coffee supply and endless amount of sweets, I would have gone through school half-asleep and none of the assignments would have been complete.  It was the place that, through out most of my student life, saw me stumbling in at 8 or 9 pm and me rubbing my blood-shot eyes, stumbling out for home before going to school at early morning hours.<div class="gmail_quote"> <p>Sundays are usually my day to unwind.  It begins with me rolling out of bed later than usual, having a great brunch and then off to read a good book before going to yoga.</p> <p>After settling into a <span><span> </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Starbucks" target="_blank">Starbucks</a></span> near my yoga class at <span><span> </span><a href="http://twitter.com/yyoga" target="_blank">Yyoga</a></span> , I cracked open my book.  I was enjoying 5 minutes of peace until some person decided that she wanted to yell at her boyfriend on the phone and she wanted to make sure I was involved by detailing the points of why she was right very loudly.</p> <p>Like an uncomfortable third-wheel caught in the middle of a lover’s quarrel with no escape, I raised my book higher as if it would block out her voice.  After perfecting my ability to tune out noises (well, I have to and not by choice!), the amount of caffeine now required that I need a quick bathroom break.   After trying to make friendly eye-contact to see if someone was nice enough to smile back (so I can ask them to watch my stuff for a few minutes), I failed to make connection with anyone. So, I decided to haul my stuff with me.  Oh yes!  That includes my laptop, my yoga bag and my purse; my companions to the washroom.</p> <p>When I came back to my seat, someone else had taken it.  After 2 more times of this, I called it quits!  I couldn’t lug all my stuff around anymore to re-situate myself every time I came back from the washroom.  I will still do my meetings in coffee shops but I am finding it harder to focus or enjoy my book, perhaps what I read and what I need to do requires more concentration than before OR maybe as I get older I am sensitive to loud noises.   I breathe a sigh of relief as I walk into the office after my yoga class, plopped myself on the sofa and quietly took in the peaceful enjoyment that awaits me as I dive back into my book without espresso machines competing for my attention or a loud voice to break my focus.  My office lounge was quiet and nice enough for me to get through another 1.5 hours of reading.</p> <p>I love coffee shops but I definitely love <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/coworking-vancouver/" title="coworking" target="_blank">coworking</a> just a little more :p</p> </div> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/coffee-shop-versus-coworking">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-4060547334715469186?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-9064033176437386062010-09-10T11:53:00.001-07:002010-09-10T11:53:29.013-07:00How we incorporated our business<div class='posterous_autopost'><p>Must be something in the air but at least a dozen young entrepreneurs have asked me, “How can I go about incorporating my business?”</p> <p>It is a wonderful thing for the economy when someone decides to venture into the world of entrepreneurship but it can also be very overwhelming.  Sole proprietorship or corporation?  What name should I use for my business?  What logo? Should I trademark my logo?  Incorporating federally or provincially?   It all becomes very overwhelming but thankfully there are FREE resources available to help answer those questions.</p> <p>When <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/freelancecamp/" target="_blank">The Network Hub</a> was conceived, my two partners and I were students, so, there was no way we could afford lawyers to take care of everything. Although, depending on your business, you should DEFINITELY be talking to a startup/business/incorporation lawyer.</p> <p>Jay, John and I have had experience working together and we previously incorporated for our other company so we were familiar with the process.  To register your business name, you have the option of going in person to <a href="http://www.smallbusinessbc.ca/" target="_blank">Small Business BC</a> or submitting your business name online with <a href="https://www.bcregistryservices.gov.bc.ca/nro" target="_blank">BC Registry Services</a>.  Now here is the odd thing, you would think submitting would be a 24/7 service – nope, not with BC Registry Online.  BC Registry Services operates from 6 am to 10 pm Monday-Saturday and from 1 pm to 10 pm on Sundays.</p> <p>We opted to go in-person because we wanted to incorporate our business name. Now, when your company is incorporated, the name is checked against a list of registered corporations in BC to ensure there are no duplicates.  We wanted to consider all possibilities of our company name submission, so that it would not rejected because that means $49 gone to waste and we would have to resubmit.  With proprietorship or partnership, business names are not protected so you can have multiple companies with the same names. (Note: if you feel overwhelmed already, get yourself a good lawyer to incorporate for you)</p> <p>Once we got the approval letter mailed back from the BC Registry Services, we went ahead and started the incorporating process.  You have 56 days from when your business name is approved to decide on a business structure, otherwise, you have to submit AGAIN for approval – another $49 dollars.   If you have no idea which business structure is right for you – go to Small Business BC, Google it.,or consult a lawyer.</p> <p>Here is the excerpt from <a href="http://www.smallbusinessbc.ca/starting-a-business/legal-requirements" target="_blank">Small Business BC</a>:</p> <ol><li><b>Sole proprietorship.</b> If you plan to operate the business on your own, either under a business name or your own name</li><li><b>Partnership.</b> If you plan to operate the business with one or more partners</li> <li><b>Corporation.</b> If you plan to operate the business as a separate legal entity, separate from yourself and your personal assets</li><li><b>Society.</b> If you plan to operate a not-for-profit organization, in which any funds or profits will be used only for the society’s purposes</li><li><b>Co-operative.</b> If you plan to operate a business that is owned and democratically controlled by the people who use and benefit from your services</li></ol> <p>A major difference between a corporation and a sole proprietorship or partnership is that, in a corporation, no individual person is responsible or liable for debt (unless specifically outlined in a contract or legal document for your business). Also, if any members of your business leave or are replaced, it won’t affect the business as a whole and operations can continue, uninterrupted.</p> <p>For us, we chose to incorporate because of liability protection and tax-benefits.   You have two choices when it comes to incorporating:  <a href="http://www.onestopbc.ca/" target="_blank">self-incorporation online at Corporate Online</a> or <a href="http://www.cba.org/bc/Public_Media/main/lawyer_referral.aspx" target="_blank">consult a lawyer</a>.   While we would have loved to have a lawyer to take care of this process for us, it wasn’t possible with all the expenses of starting up a business. So, we decided to register the business ourselves.</p> <p style="text-align: left; margin-left: 40px;"><img title="bc-incorporation-guide-large" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/08/bc-incorporation-guide-large-254x300.jpg" height="216" alt="vancouver office space bc incorporation guide large 254x300 How we incorporated our business" width="183" /></p> <p>With the help of the <a href="http://www.self-counsel.com/default/bc-incorporation-guide.html" target="_blank">Incorporation Guide for British Columbia</a> by Self-Counsel Press for $19.95 and about $350 to incorporate online, we were officially incorporated.  Check out Self-Counsel Press for other forms such as <a href="http://www.self-counsel.com/default/legal-forms-for-inc-business.html" target="_blank">Legal Forms for Incorporated Business</a>.<p> <br /> <i><b>Please note:  This is NOT legal advice. If you require advice, please consult a lawyer!!</b></i></p> </p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/how-we-incorporated-our-business">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-906403317643738606?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-84110295198453376162010-09-10T11:41:00.001-07:002010-09-10T11:41:16.138-07:005 Reasons Coworking is More Productive than Working Alone<div class='posterous_autopost'><p><img title="144709812" src="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/minna/files/2010/08/144709812-300x225.jpg" height="225" alt="vancouver office space 144709812 300x225 5 Reasons Coworking is More Productive than Working Alone" width="300" /><p> On my daily reading, I came across this awesome blog post about <a href="http://www.thenetworkhub.ca/coworking-vancouver/" title="coworking" target="_blank">coworking</a>! </p> <blockquote class="posterous_medium_quote"><p>Oh, I know what you’re thinking. Why wouldn’t people like us just stick to our home offices? Simple: 1. It’s lonely, and 2. Two brains (or three or four or five) are smarter than one.</p> <p>So without belaboring the topic, here are 5 Reasons Coworking is More Productive than Working Alone</p></blockquote> <p>Read more here: <a href="http://www.themalvernsocialclub.com/2009/10/5-reasons-coworking-is-more-productive.html" target="_blank">5 Reasons Coworking is More Productive than Working Alone</a>.</p> </p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/5-reasons-coworking-is-more-productive-than-w">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-8411029519845337616?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-13983816480853183072010-09-10T11:31:00.001-07:002010-09-10T11:31:44.803-07:00The Power of Emotion<div class='posterous_autopost'>As entrepreneurs, we invest so much time in the product that we forget sometimes successful products make an impact on the heart more so than the mind of consumers. <blockquote><p><b><i>A feature can always be matched. A claim can always be mimicked. But an emotional sweet spot is something your brand can occupy all by itself.</i></b></p></blockquote> <p>Read more here: <a href="http://www.businessweek.com/smallbiz/content/nov2007/sb2007118_797874.htm" target="_blank">Brands: The Power of Emotion</a></p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/the-power-of-emotion">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-1398381648085318307?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>The Network Hubhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14358862545224942983noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5541665406658207553.post-37830895575187022392010-07-26T15:01:00.001-07:002010-07-26T15:01:09.435-07:00Hungry Girl’s Guide: La Grotta Del Formaggio<div class='posterous_autopost'><p>The beautiful thing about living on Commercial Drive is that I can literally roll out of bed, walk a few steps and walk into some of the most awesome restaurants, coffee shops and grocery stores in Vancouver. Today my mom wanted to visit <a href="http://www.yelp.ca/biz/la-grotta-del-formaggio-vancouver" target="_blank">La Grotta Del Formaggio</a> for their famous Panini, my mom’s sorority sisters are coming from Houston, Seattle, Arizona and Europe to convene in Vancouver in two weeks time and this is one of the places she wanted to take them to.</p> <p>While many companies are trying to figure out social media and creating buzz through gimmicky marketing, here is La Grotta Del Formaggio quietly going about their way. Established since 1979, still in its original location and operated by the Bruzzese family that founded the business. Without a website, advertising or any social media accounts – every weekend you can find long lines of people eagerly waiting to order their sandwiches. For as long as I can remember, La Grotta Del Formaggio consistently made the top 3 for <a href="http://www.straight.com/timeout/search/restaurant/2447" target="_blank">Georgia Straight’s Golden Plate Awards</a> as voted by Readers, going as far back as 2006 for <a href="http://www.straight.com/timeout/search/restaurant/2447" target="_blank">Best Sandwich and Best Deli</a>. This year they added <a href="http://www.straight.com/timeout/search/restaurant/2447" target="_blank">Best Specialty Cheese Store</a> to their long list of accolades. No Twitter or Facebook campaigns, no big push at the store to vote for them… they quietly go about their ways and their loyal patrons show their appreciation by voting for them every year.</p> <p>The store focuses on providing high quality ingredients and the best customer care – that too is one important aspect of marketing that people forget. It is not just about speaking to people through advertisements; you make an impression through the quality of your product and your customer service. This is why La Grotta Del Formaggio has sustainability and enjoys longevity versus other small businesses who spend a disproportionate amount of investment in advertising and leave little to train their staff or ensure that they consistently deliver high quality products each and every time to their patrons.</p> <p>La Grotta Del Formaggio has done something that a lot of small businesses, large companies and even some agencies have not been able to do – creating an army of loyal patrons who through their influence is creating and sharing information about the deli for their network to find and consume. On every prolific social media network, you can find La Grotta Del Formaggio with glowing reviews. <a href="http://www.yelp.ca/biz/la-grotta-del-formaggio-vancouver" target="_blank">Yelp</a>, Twitter, <a href="http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/14/181046/restaurant/Commercial-Drive-Grandview/La-Grotta-Del-Formaggio-Vancouver" target="_blank">Urbanspoon</a>, influential blogs, magazines, newspaper and that’s just not in Vancouver but also in other places in the world.  There is also my mom, who in a few weeks time will be the unintentional La Grotta Del Formaggio promotion person to introduce her sorority sisters from different parts of the world to this deli.</p> <p>Now to understand why people are so loyal and they can’t stop talking about this deli, you have to come here to see their selection of cheese, olive oil, candies, pasta and more importantly, well for me, experience one of their Paninis.</p> <p><br /><small><a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&amp;source=embed&amp;hl=en&amp;geocode=&amp;q=1791+Commercial+Drive+in+Vancouver,+BC&amp;sll=37.0625,-95.677068&amp;sspn=47.483365,93.076172&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;hq=&amp;hnear=1791+Commercial+Dr,+Vancouver,+Greater+Vancouver+Regional+District,+British+Columbia,+Canada&amp;layer=c&amp;cbll=49.268792,-123.069621&amp;panoid=15NJM5gQTcBMFkgQKpdtKg&amp;cbp=13,271.53,,0,9.9&amp;ll=49.268849,-123.069823&amp;spn=0.015513,0.031672&amp;z=14" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 255); text-align: left;">View Larger Map</a></small></p> <div style=""><img title="La Grotto Del Formaggio - Interior" src="http://thenetworkhub.ca/minna/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG00694-20100718-1357.jpg" height="277" alt="La Grotto Del Formaggio - Interior" width="369" /><p> La Grotto Del Formaggio - Interior</p></div> <div style=""><img title="La Grotta Del Formaggio - Specialty Cheese Selection" src="http://thenetworkhub.ca/minna/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG00699-20100718-1404.jpg" height="277" alt="La Grotta Del Formaggio - Specialty Cheese Selection" width="369" /><p> La Grotta Del Formaggio - Specialty Cheese Selection</p></div> <p>Each panini is customized according to your taste – with a huge variety of cheese, meat and toppings selection to choose from, the possibilities are endless!</p> <div style=""><img title="La Grotto Del Formaggio - Specialty Panini " src="http://thenetworkhub.ca/minna/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG00696-20100718-1400.jpg" height="277" alt="La Grotto Del Formaggio - Specialty Panini " width="369" /><p> La Grotto Del Formaggio - Specialty Panini </p></div> <p>They are not shy about loading up each panini with a huge mound of meat, cheese and toppings. My favorite cheese is smoked mozzarella, paired with huge helping of prosciutto de parma and generous amount of pickled eggplant.</p> <div style=""><img title="La Grotto Del Formaggio - Specialty Panini " src="http://thenetworkhub.ca/minna/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/IMG00702-20100718-1421.jpg" height="277" alt="La Grotto Del Formaggio - Specialty Panini " width="369" /><p> La Grotto Del Formaggio - Specialty Panini </p></div> <p>Finger-licking good panini, again I can’t really describe how awesome their panini is. I lack the proper foodie vocabulary and the fine taste buds to tell you the distinguishing flavors but all I can tell you is if you have not been here, you are seriously missing out!</p> <p style="font-size: 10px;"> <a href="http://posterous.com">Posted via email</a> from <a href="http://minna.posterous.com/hungry-girls-guide-la-grotta-del-formaggio">minna's posterous</a> </p> </div><div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5541665406658207553-3783089557518702239?l=vancouvermailboxrental.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>