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| by Expert Copy Strategist, Charlon Bobo |
Another inspired week is upon us. To empower you with direct resources to increased, measurable results, this week's features include:
Charlon Bobo is the founder and team leader of EditCopyProof | Wordsmithing and Editing Solutions -- Transforming Words Into Profits. Proficient in many diverse writing roles, her expertise spans more than 25 years. This solid foundation offers you a single and final destination in your quest for extraordinary press-ready services including copyediting, copywriting and proofreading. Visit us TODAY at EditCopyProof to submit your Request For Proposal. |
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Newsweek By Brian Braiker |
A Farewell to Hyphens: The Shorter Oxford English Dictionary unburdens 16,000 words of their hyphens
Sept. 26, 2007 - Hyphen, line on my page,
dash in my copy. My joiner of words, my
separator of syllables. Hy-phen: the breath
of the lungs bursting forth from the
diaphragm to loosely bite the lower lip and
exhale again on two. Hy. Phen.
We never got a chance to say goodbye. The Shorter Oxford English Dictionary announced this month that it has committed punctuational genocide, eliminating 16,000 hyphens from its pages. Either by combining two words into one or simply uncoupling them-severing the corpus callosum between them-editors of the dictionary's sixth edition have seen fit to knock hyphens from its pages like so many teeth from a hockey goaltender's mouth. So, ice-cream becomes ice cream and chick-pea chickpea. But wait, how many of us were still hyphenating ice cream anyway? Does this announcement merely remove the fig-leaf (sorry, fig leaf) barely covering the fact that the Shorter OED was in major need of some long overdue updates? "The dictionary reflects the language as it's being used today," concedes Jesse Sheidlower, Editor at Large of the Oxford English Dictionary. "In general you'll find that most dictionary editors are extremely progressive. As with any change like this, there's some point at which you want to be a little conservative. You don't want to change an entry the second there is some change in the language." (The Shorter OED is essentially the OED without its supporting quotations and most obsolete words. It was last updated in 2002; the OED itself has been updated only in part and only online.) This particular change suggests that British English, which the OED catalogs, is becoming increasingly Americanized. How many Limeys were running scared of bumble-bees in their gardens this summer? Sheidlower stresses that the changes were based on findings made combing through British, not American, published texts. "We would use the most formal, most edited evidence," he says. "We incorporate American evidence, but the dictionary is edited in England and does represent British standards." Bill Walsh, the copy chief at The Washington Post's national news desk, thinks the mass deletion of hyphens is a nonissue (or would that be non-issue?). "My reaction was, gosh, they were really using hyphens in those words?" he says. (The Washington Post Co. also owns NEWSWEEK, which until 1937 was called News-Week.) In his blog about copy-editing-yes, he writes a blog about copy-editing; copy editors tend to be an obsessive lot-Walsh calls the news "Some A-Do About No-Thing." The Shorter OED has eliminated only "hyphens as unnecessary and uninteresting as they are un-American," he writes. Think about it: when was the last time you used leap-frog or pigeon-hole or cry-baby? "Americans do use such hyphens, but only as a last resort, and often in terms most unsavory," he continues. "There are giant-killers who are killers of giants as opposed to killers who are giants, and there are child-rapists who are rapists of children as opposed to rapists who are children... The hyphens that Americans get testy about in one direction or the other are the ones that link ice and cream when they're teaming up to become a single modifier-a compound modifier, a unit modifier, a call-it-what-you-will multiple-word modifier or adjective. I'd never dream of writing ice-cream as a noun all by itself, but I'd sure as hell be lining up with the three other Americans who would insist on a hyphen in ice-cream cone." (A friendly word of advice: if you ever find yourself speaking with Bill Walsh on the topic of hyphens, it is inadvisable to get him started on the e-mail versus email debate. The main entry in the Shorter OED is unhyphenated. Walsh strenuously prefers the other for reasons he is happy to outline at length for you.) Another reason Shiedlower gives for the hyphen kibosh is simply practical: until now the Shorter OED editors lacked software advanced enough to make sweeping changes to the copy. "Something like hyphens seems like a trivial correction to make," he says. "In fact, if you have cross-references it's a nightmare." To change 16,000 definitions and their cross-references would have been a full-time job for a full-time editorial team. A recent in-house software upgrade allowed those cross-references to be made much more efficiently, giving the team time to add 2,500 words as well. New in this edition: definitions for BDSM, beatboxing and bass-ackwards (note the hyphen). But it seems disdain for the superfluous slash is an American trait first. "The British do hyphenate things rather more than we do," shrugs Barbara Walraff, the grammar columnist for The Atlantic. Indeed, look no further than the pages of "USA," the monumental 1938 John Dos Passos trilogy, which practically doubles as an antihyphen manifesto. A commenter on the Desktop Publishing Forum Web site points out one phrase in particular: "he wanted to make good in heman twofisted broncobusting pokerplaying stockjuggling America." Why, it's enough to make you turn into a blubbering patriotic cry-baby. Sorry, crybaby. � 2007 Newsweek, Inc. |
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| Celebration Healing |
"Heal Your Life" Spiritual Retreat
To Deliver Sacred Rituals and Life-Transforming Content To Unleash Lifelong Healing, Near-instantaneous Manifestation And Record-Breaking Sales in 2008 How much could your income increase in 2008 if you had a true sense of purpose and all the spiritual guidance to accomplish anything you desire? Imagine 3 days of spiritual bliss; soulful, heartfelt transference-of-knowledge in a nurturing environment gently guided into the presence of the "Holiest of Holies." If you're ready for a soul-changing, heart-healing, divine experience that you can easily relax into and in the end, leave with a sense of purpose and the spiritual strength and guidance to have a "mountain-top" 2008, this is the providential event for you. That's because all of this is the essence of the "Heal Your Life" Spiritual Retreat featuring the lifeworks of Joyce Salvo, Rebecca Marina and Dr. Patricia Felici. With an unwavering commitment to consistent overdelivery, these ladies and the information they share during this 3-day event will leave you speechless... and fully equipped to move in new, inspired directions in 2008 and beyond. Join in the memorable retreat-of-a-lifetime on November 29, 30 and December 1, 2007 in McAllen, Texas. The Attendees If you've observed the success of others and wondered why, in spite of all your efforts, this hasn't been your experience, too, it's easy to be envious -- and let's be honest -- even angry. You try so hard and yet things don't ever seem to materialize. Perplexed, annoyed, exasperated. Do these describe your feelings? Ugh, it's so frustrating. It can be a vicious cycle because then you begin to doubt that there's any abundance for you. You wonder to yourself: Will things ever be different? The good news is: Abundance is for EVERYONE! In spirit, one size fits all, although we achieve based on our individual paths. Don't allow the anger or frustration to consume you any longer. If you:
And that's exactly what you get in attending the "Heal Your Life" Spiritual Retreat. You show up. We deliver. It's our individual and collective commitment to you. Many of you have already expressed an interest in attending, however If you're not ready, that's fine. If it's not your time, you know it innately. The biggest gift you can give yourself -- and others -- is an honest assessment of your ability to assimilate and harness the power of the information shared. The curriculum is jam-packed with tips, tools, techniques, methods, approaches and systems that work for everyone who implements them. The Presenters Spending years in the trenches of life, Joyce Salvo, Rebecca Marina and Dr. Patricia Felici are the real deal. Individually they have made impressive contributions to the progressive spiritual movement in ways that honor and celebrate this facet of life. Collectively, they are unparalleled in their willingness to share their knowledge for the betterment of humankind... psssst, that's you! During this event, you are ignited with their passion because they:
Event Structure The daily sessions are not stiff and religious; we get down and "roll around in the glory of our humanity" as well as honor the spirit within. The activities are playful and engaging. This is a hands-on experience so you leave feeling confident in the techniques you learn. that is guided by spirit After all, spirit knows the innermost needs of your heart and what is best to fully and completely heal it. safe, friendly, fun and full of love is priceless The Itinerary Day 1 9 AM - 5 PM Presented by Joyce A. Salvo The Avana Method -- An Advanced Energy Healing Course Part II of II - Certification and Attunement The Avana Method teaches you to quickly balance:
Experience the most inclusive method available for finding the ROOT CAUSE at all levels -- emotionally, energetically & physically -- then learn the fastest, most thorough methods to correct the imbalances.
(Part I will be offered via teleconference and audio in mid-November before the "Heal Your Life" Spiritual Retreat. Being certified and attuned in the Avana Method gives you an additional healing tool and source of income. Avana Method graduates are given FREE advertising exposure at www.CelebrationHealing.com.) Day 2 9 AM - 5 PM Presented by Rebecca Marina
Day 3 9 AM - 5 PM Presented by Rebecca Marina and Dr. Patricia Felici
"What is my ROI (Return On Investment)?" is a question we frequently answer. Answer: Honestly, what don't you get for your investment? The intent, foundation and itinerary has already been established for you to:
Retreat Location/Accommodations The "Heal Your Life" Retreat is held on the sacred grounds of El Rocio Retreat. Location information: The retreat will be held on the sacred grounds of El Rocio Retreat Center in Mission, Texas. El Rocio is only 6 minutes away from Hawthorn Suites. (Free transportation is provided by Hawthorn Suites to the retreat center.) Airport information: You will fly into McAllen Texas International Airport (MFE) Accommodation information: Lodging is at Hawthorn Inn and Suites, Plantation South, Mission, Texas for an unbelievable $70 per night (a suite with double beds and full kitchen). Hawthorn Suites is 10 Minutes from McAllen International Airport and there is a free shuttle from the airport to the hotel. For the lucky first 8 who register, there is a chance to stay at El Rocio Retreat Center at an even lower rate. There are only 8 spaces at El Rocio, so register quickly and receive the details in your registration welcome letter. Registration The cost of registration for this 3-day full immersion program of soul nurturing and divine guidance is $777. If two people register at the same time with fees paid in full, the cost goes down to a ridiculously low $702 per person... a total savings of $150! "With the excessive and highly impactful material presented, why is this event priced so affordably?" you ask. Answer: Because we want to make it easily accessible to everyone who innately understands the value of investing in powerful tools that accelerate spiritual growth! Latte analogies aside ("For the cost of a latte a day..."), you are among those who already "get it." Nothing has to be explained to you. You are poised for aggressive personal growth and simply await the tools to bring about a stratospheric push to maximizing your experience. You are open-minded and ready for the healing that moves you to heights not before imagined... until now. You deserve the tools to realizing your perfect vision of an abundant life. Teaching you how to use these tools - and so much more - is the intent of this event. Service, service, service. That's the joint motto of the ladies who have agreed to share their unique talents and knowledge so you function in your life in bold, new ways using time-tested and proven METHODS THAT WORK! And in the midst of healing yourself, you also lovingly facilitate the healing of others. mutual validation, admiration, respect and the willingness to be both student and teacher, you clearly see how your patterning has prevented actualizing your life vision AND more powerfully, how to confidently move beyond the limitation. Every opportunity surfaces to profoundly enrich your life. Nothing more. Nothing less. There are no accidents; take advantage of the healing, empowerment and connectivity offered during this learning life celebration. If you are among those who know with ultimate certainty that this is the perfect event and timing for you, register today for 1 person or 2 people to reserve your space and truly Heal Your Life. Reap the benefits beginning the very first day! Sincerely, Rebecca Marina Founder of Celebration Healing www.celebrationhealing.com PS: While the retreat content is rich and life-altering, it isn't a fit for everyone. You must honestly ask yourself if you're ready to be catapulted to actually realize results. If you're not sure, THIS IS NOT THE EVENT FOR YOU! PPS: Register with confidence for 1 person ($777) or 2 people ($1,404). If you need to cancel or transfer your registration later, no problem and no questions asked! Cancellations received in writing by October 29, 2007 are 100% refunded. With written notice after October 29, 2007, there is a 20% fee. Registrations can be transferred with previous written notification. PPPS: Simplify your life! You don't have to go it alone. You are being handed an opportunity to learn from masters who have paved the way for you. They're hard-earned life skills ensure that your learning curve is shortened by years. Lucky you! * General information, conference details, weather forecasts and what-to-wear tips will be provided in your registration confirmation. |
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| Alan Sharpe |
Improve Email Deliverability: 15 Tips for Email Marketing Success 
Delivering email newsletters and sales
messages to opt-in subscribers and customers
is getting more exasperating-and more
expensive-by the day. Delivery rates for
email have gone through the virtual floor.
According to MarketingSherpa, one out of
every six people who asked to be on your
mailing list won't receive your email
newsletter or marketing message because a
spam filter blocks it by mistake.
Why you're just not getting through to them As you probably know, the challenge you are facing is primarily spam filters, electronic and human. And no wonder. Consider these sobering numbers:
Alan Sharpe is a business-to-business direct mail copywriter and lead generation specialist. He helps businesses generate leads, close sales and retain customers, using cost-effective, compelling direct mail and email marketing. Alan also uses his direct mail advertising services to help non-profits raise funds and raise awareness of their causes, using fundraising letters. Sign up for Sharpe & Direct: The B2B direct mail marketing e-newsletter. Every Monday morning, receive in your inbox a short, helpful article on direct mail lead generation. Sign up today and receive a free copy of his special report, "30 Reasons to Use Direct Mail to Increase Sales and Attract New Customers." Read free articles, tips and other helpful advice on direct mail marketing at http://www.sharpecopy.com |
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| Charlon Bobo |
"Be not grieved above measure for thy
deceased friends. They are not dead, but have
only finished the journey which it is
necessary for every one of us to take. We
ourselves must go to that great place of
reception in which they are all of them
assembled, and, in this general rendezvous of
mankind, live together in another state of
being."
Antiphanes (408 - 334 BC) This week I learned of the return-to-Source of a dear friend. Years ago, while in relationship, we were awkward with each other, didn't have anything in common, didn't talk much and yet we knew it was in our highest individual and joint purpose to spend time together. On a soul-level we knew it was important even though in so many ways it was a mis-match and contained no hope of lasting. it is with a heart full of gratitude that I bless you for agreeing to share your life with me. In so many ways you were a tormented soul on this physical plane. That is all different now. Lucky you! I am fortunate to have loved you, as you were, because it taught me so much about myself... lessons I carry with me always. In the pain, in the vulnerability, in the state of a broken spirit, I learned the importance of remaining true to myself. Undoubtedly, this was your gift to me. I am ever-grateful. Enjoy your newfound freedom, my beloved. Blessings.
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