Canadian Writers Speak Out on Copyright

Wow.  It's a little disturbing to know that if my novel gets picked up for high school reading lists (yes, yes, yes!!), that teachers could copy for free?  

Watch the video.  Learn how to take action:  http://www.writersunion.ca/C-32_video.htm

Let the Celebrations Begin!

 

Born in the Year of the Rabbit? What the Chinese say about you, reported at TheEpochTimes. 

You're in good company ;-)  I'm presently burrowed up inside due to the snow storm that passed through southern Ontario this week and is heading eastward.  I am surprised that Shubenacadie Sam actually got up today!

Did you know... 2011 has also been declared International Year of Forests? 

I find this a beautiful coincidence. In my novel, eleven-year-old Sera Fletcher tries to make sense of her lonely world and sees the 1975 Year of the Rabbit as a year of hope with the birth of her illegitimate nephew. She is also a lover of nature, trees and an unintentional avenger, protector of a forest in her own community. 

No pet bunnies, please

In line with the gifting advice provided during Christmas about puppies and kittens and at Easter about pet rabbits...  Please use good judgment when wanting to celebrate this promising occasion. 

"Unfortunately, we are living in a consumer-oriented society -- people get tempted easily especially when it's cute and cuddly," she said."

"Rabbits aren't just cute and fluffy, they're high-maintenance animals who require significant resources, equipment, attention and veterinary care."

• http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5hp39UWEOX8kyCz6LSs8HtGc2gO0Q
• http://news.asiaone.com/News/Latest+News/Asia/Story/A1Story20110124-259927.html

T

A warning for Facebook users and the Zodiac sign

Sigh.  I really wish people would use their technical and social networking skills for good.  

Zodiac sign survey scam spreading virally on Facebook

by Graham Cluley on January 16, 2011

A scam has spread far and wide across Facebook this weekend, posted on many users' Facebook pages claiming that they have discovered that their zodiac sign has changed.

See the article here: 

http://nakedsecurity.sophos.com/2011/01/16/zodiac-sign-survey-scam-spreading-virally-on-facebook/

People can be so gullible and should be better educated about the Internet, email and social networking.  I avoid using Facebook apps and often warn my friends about them.    It's a socially un-private new world...