Forum Discusses Infrastructural Changes in Jamaica 091113

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FARMERS SLAM GOVT. PLANS TO GROW FOOD IN GUYANA

>>PAGE 5

Forum Discusses Infrastructural Changes in Jamaica

EMILY SINGH/TORONTO CARIBBEAN

TORONTO -- Jamaica, home to the beautiful Dunn’s River Falls and the pristine water of Doctor’s Cave Beach in Montego Bay. Apart from the breath taking tourist destinations, Jamaica has a vast infrastructural presence with over 15 thousand kilometers of road stretching across the country, 800 bridges and ten seaports.

On Wednesday the King Edward Hotel in Toronto hosted the “Outlook for the Future” forum, which aimed to discuss and address the major infrastructur-

al issues occurring in Jamaica. Speaking at the forum was the Minister of Transport, Works and Housing in Jamaica Dr. the Hon. Omar Davies along with Dr. the Hon. Oliver Clarke Chairman of the Jamaican National Building Society, Her Excellency Sheila Sealy Monteith High Commissioner for Jamaica to Canada, Prof. the Hon. Gordon Shirley President and CEO Designate Port Authority of Jamaica and Ivan Anderson Managing Director of the National Road Operating and Construction Company. Following

the opening remarks and presentations was an open question and answer forum, which was moderated by the General Manager of the Jamaican National Building Society, Dr. Earl Jarrett.

One of the major infrastructural changes discussed was the expansion of roads within the country. Heavily stressed was the fact that this expansion would be implemented using only their own natural material as opposed to man made.

Continued On Page 3

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

One dead, two seriously injured in Crane accident - driver was reportedly DUI GUYANA -- Asif Hussein of Independence Street, La Grange, WBD died Friday morning when motor car PJJ 8608, which he was driving, slammed into a utility pole at La Union on the West Bank of Demerara in the vicinity of Crane.

Twenty–four-year-old James Pasraj and 20-year-old Abdul Khan, both of La Grange, were also injured in that accident.

When this publication visited the home of the dead man Friday, his sister refused to entertain the media, saying the family would love to have its privacy.

The Guyana Chronicle was informed that the three men were out partying at several night spots in Region Three on Friday evening, and were reportedly heading to another when the accident occurred.

A source close to the three men said the driver of the vehicle had been a former aviation employee, and had been driving the vehicle under the influence and at a fast rate when the accident occurred.

It has been surmised that the men were not wearing their seatbelts at the time of the accident.

A source disclosed last evening that the police were informed that the two accident survivors were under the influence of alcohol, but he conceded it was difficult to determine

if the now dead driver of the vehicle had also been under the influence of alcohol.

The Guyana Police Force has consistently warned against driving under the influence of alcohol. The GPF has consistently confirmed via statistics released that most road fatalities occur late at nights and early in the mornings, a trend representing drivers or other road users, having taken the time to imbibe, using the road in a manner that jeopardizes themselves and other road users.

There have been several clarion calls for the police to have traffic ranks on the road at nights to monitor and bring under control the lawlessness associated with late night and early morning driving.

On the other hand, the police have argued that it was unsafe for traffic ranks to be placed on the roads late at nights and early in the mornings, since they are not usually armed, and such a move can endanger the lives of those officers.

Nevertheless, the Guyana Police Force does have patrols which traverse the main thoroughfares late at nights and early in the mornings; and those encounter persons who use the roadways recklessly, or drive under the influence, whom they detain and subject to face the consequences of their actions.

(Guyana Chronicle)

Over 85% of missing children return home

Amanda,

half Jamaican, half French, is currently a model with Orange Model Management. Amanda studied international travel and is a certified travel agent.

In her spare time, Amanda loves to play basketball and take part in track and feild and enjoys outdoor activities, sports, attending NBA games and concerts and aspires to one day own her own business and have a successful modeling career.

JAMAICA -- More than 85 per cent of children reported missing for the period January to August 23 this year have since returned home, a senior government official has said.

Minister of Youth and Culture Lisa Hanna reported that 1,297 of the 1,518 children reported missing over the period have been successfully reunited with their families.

Hanna, who was addressing a press briefing held at the Office of the Prime Minister, said that of the total number of missing children, 325 were males and 1,193 were females. Nine children (six males and three females) were found dead and 212 are still missing.

“I have mandated the OCR (Office of the Children’s Registry) to devise a successful and reliable system of informing the public of when there is recovery and the return of missing children because still, persons feel that a lot of the children have not been recovered when they actually have and successfully so,”

Hanna said.

She also urged parents to ensure that they have a recent photograph of their child, and also supply a copy to the school at the start of every academic year, as this will assist in the recovery effort in the event a child goes missing.

“If we all assist to create stronger platforms and integration mechanisms to work with the various government agencies, and if something happens to your child, the recovery will be a lot quicker. We are utilising electronic media now and we are utilising billboards,” the youth minister said.

She informed that for financial year 2013/14 a sum of $6.7 million has been allocated to the Ananda Alert programme.

The OCR has recruited an Ananda Alert officer and has shortlisted persons for the position of Ananda Alert administrator following the approval of new posts by the Cabinet.

Continued On Page 3

TORONTO CARIBB CARIBBEAN

New highway and larger ports in Jamaica Emily Singh TC Reporter Continued From Page 1 -- Another major modification that will be made in the coming year is the expansion of Jamaican ports to be able to accommodate larger vessels.

The Honourable Gordon Shirley who is the President and CEO Designate of the Port Authority of Jamaica took the opportunity to highlight the necessary changes that would be made to the Panama Canal in order to accommodate access for larger vessels and increase the waterways capacity.

Upon completion the Canal will be able to accommodate vessels that carry a weight of up to 12,000 TEU (Twenty foot

equivalent units) and a length of 366 meters.

A series of changes will also be made to the port located at Fort Augusta. Plans are in place to further dredge the port to 18 meters and be able to accommodate vessels of up to 12 500 TEU. The infrastructural changes that will be made in regards to port expansion will better increase and further enhance the containerized cargo market established in Jamaica.

The Jamaican National Building Society and the Jamaican National Building Society Foundation in hopes of shedding light onto the various changes that are in dire need of change within Jamaica organized this forum. The community was urged to come out and unite as one and speak honestly and openly about various infrastructural issues being faced in Jamaica. This forum also provided the opportunity to have questions answered by the leading forces behind the projects, such as Dr. the Hon. Omar Davies, who has been the Minister of Transport, Works and Housing since January 2012 as well as a Member of Parliament.

Soo Wong champions support for children with special needs TORONTO -- Soo Wong, MPP for Scarborough-Agincourt, is promoting new funding that will improve the quality and accessibility of services for children and youth with Autism and other special needs. Wong is a long-time advocate for students with special needs and is championing improvements to support programs in our community and classrooms.

The Ontario government is investing $10 million to reduce wait times and enhance how families access the services they need, as close to home as possible. The Ontario government is committed to expanding access to integrated rehabilitation services in full-day kindergarten classrooms by building on pilot programs.

More young people with autism will also benefit from improved access to Intensive Behavioural Intervention therapy, which helps decrease challenging behaviours, increase appropriate behaviours and promote development.

“Our government is making the right investments to support children and families liv-

ing with Autism and other special needs in our community,” said Soo Wong, MPP for Scarborough-Agincourt, “We are making it easier for families to access the support they need and fostering the right environment in our schools for children with special needs to learn and succeed.”

Scarborough-Agincourt residents will benefit from the Autism Intervention Program which will be facilitated by Surrey Place in Toronto.

“We heard from families about what they need to support their children and youth with special needs, and we took action. We remain committed to helping all children and youth in Ontario achieve their goals, and to fully participate at home, at school and in their communities,” said Teresa Piruzza, Minister of Children and Youth Services.

Improving access to services for children and youth with special needs and their families is part of the Ontario government’s efforts to build a fair society for the benefit of all and help people with their everyday lives.

Returned home to their families Continued From Page 2 -- Hanna noted that three strategies are being proposed to create a more effective public advisory system.

“One is safety information to reduce the number of children that go missing; two, instances of missing children that are complete with names, locations, photographs and other pertinent information; and three, the recovery and return of missing children,” she outlined.

Meanwhile, Spatial Data Analyst in the Ministry of Water, Land, Environment and Climate Change Carey-lee Dixon disclosed that mapping reports show a high concentration of missing children reports from the Waltham Park and Hagley Park Road areas of St Andrew.

“These are mostly areas some would consider low income areas and so,

utilising geospatial technology, we can provide scientific basis and location,” Dixon said.

She also informed that there is a higher number of missing children cases being reported at the Hunt’s Bay police station for both 2012 and 2013.

The Ananda Alert is a nationwide system, designed to ensure a speedy and safe recovery of a child in the unfortunate event that he/she is missing or abducted.

Under the Ananda Alert System, when a child is reported missing, the name and picture will be publicised on various media, such as television, radio, billboards and multimedia equipment in stores, supermarkets, pharmacies and other locations.

(Jamaica Observer)

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

3

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

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Farmers slam Govt plans to grow food in Guyana TRINIDAD -- Reports that the Government plans to provide 10,000 acres of land in Guyana for T&T’s farmers have already stirred up discontentment within the agricultural industry. Among the groups voicing their concerns are the T&T Agriculture Society, United Farmers Association and the T&T Cane Producers Association. In an interview Sunday, president of the T&T United Farmers Association Shiraz Ali called on the Government to disclose who are the farmers who would stand to benefit from farming in Guyana. He added that development of agricultural land in Guyana would not bring about a dent in T&T’s $4 billion food import bill. Ali said any move to boost agricultural diversification in T&T should be geared at reducing this exorbitant figure which has contributed to escalating inflation.

“If those T&T farmers bring in food into the country will it not be considered imported food? This effort is not going to bring a dent on the food import bill,” he said.

Ali noted there was more than 10,000 acres of fertile agricultural land in T&T which could be developed for farming. “Local farmers are yearning for government support in terms of lease and infrastructure,” he said. “We ignore them yet we plan to take selected farmers to Guyana and give them massive loans for housing. This doesnt make sense. What will be our return from this investment?” Ali said. He noted that farmers in Wallerfield and Carlsen Field had been begging for years for land to be regularised. “Recently, the Government gave 500 farmers two acre-leases but those farmers have no road access to lands, no water for their crops when dry season comes,” Ali said. “How can they use these lands if there is no infrastructure? Why is government concerned about satisfying its financiers and friends rather than develop agriculture in T&T.” He noted that under the PNM, the then agriculture minister Arnold Piggott spoke about bringing 7,000 people into lucrative farming. Ali said the Government should follow the same by offering leases, incentives and loans to local farmers.

Instead of offering lands in Guyana to local farmers, Ali said the Government should consider setting up a mega farm in Guyana which would produce corn for animal feed production.

He explained that corn was fast becom-

ing scarce because the United States was using corn to produce biofuel. Ali also said the Government had no consultation with stakeholders in the agricultural sector before deciding on land development in Guyana. He revealed that local farmers were facing fierce competition from T&T’s mega farms. “Caroni has 77,000 acres of lands which are now abandoned.

We have the Non Pareil Estate in Sangre Grande which is 27,00 acres plus. In Wallerfield, we have over 1,200 acres.

There are thousands of acres in Carlsen Field. For years we have been begging government to make lands available.

Why do they now want to go to Guyana?

What is the cost arrangement with Guyana. How will we get produce back to Trinidad?” Sookoo said.

She added that the mega farms of T&T was supposed to cater for exporting but instead were causing a glut in the market. She said T&T had enough land to produce food for all of Caricom.

“Proper freight arrangements are not there. All we have is schooners and we need proper refrigerated vessels to allow us to export. Why doesn’t government deal with these problems rather than focussing on developing agriculture in Guyana,” Sookoo lamented. She said a lot has been invested in agriculture, including the digging of 500 farm ponds and paving of hundreds of kilometres of access roads. “What we need now are leases and proper methods to sustain agriculture,” she added. President of the Cane Producers Association Seukaran Tambie also said he was skeptical about who would benefit from the Guyananese agriculture development plan. “Is it big business or smaller farmers who stand to gain. What is the cost arrangements between T&T and Guyana? It will cost more than $50,000 to develop one acre of land. Who will pay for this?” Tambie said. He accused the Government of trying to kill the local agriculture industry.

Tambie said every sector of agriculture had been declining in recent years. He also said that no consultation was ever made with the local agriculture stakeholders before decisions were made to boost agriculture. It is expected that Finance Minister Larry Howai would outline the details of the new land policy in Guyana. Under the agreement investors would be able to apply to the Ministry of Food Production for a permit to farm in Guyana. (Trinidad Guardian)

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Wednesday, September 11, 2013

7

Government to unveil 2014 literacy plan of action to reach every Guyanese GUYANA -In observance of International World Literacy Day 2013, Education Minister Priya Manickchand announced that the government and the ministry is committed to unveiling a 2014 literacy plan of action and projected results, with a goal of working with everyone to fulfil to every citizen the right of literacy.

She explained that it is even more urgent that citizens acquire and master the tenets of basic literacy skills and strengthen and expand these skills throughout their lives.

“We must sustain a culture of love for knowledge across this nation, we must inculcate in our Guyanese citizens an embrace of innovative thinking, of original ideas, of fresh exploration of the world of knowledge, ideas and information,” she said. In recognition of the fact that the task before Guyana is of profound importance to the future, Minister Manickchand emphasised that a national literacy programme must be crafted and implemented with a view to making each Guyanese citizen of every age, of every background, of every persuasion able to enhance their individual lives by being able to read and write.

“As Minister of Education, I extend to every Guyanese everywhere, here at home and in the Diaspora, from within the government and across Parliament to the Opposition camps, to civic organisations, our school teachers, community and religious leaders, parents, business leaders, our young people our senior citizens – to every Guyanese, everywhere – my hand in invita-

tion and cooperation to achieve this task,” she declared.

The World observes International Literacy Day 2013 with a sober task before it. The United Nations Literacy Decade, launched in 2003, ended last year with worldwide literacy still a cause for deep concern, despite a reduction in the global rate of illiteracy.

“Whilst the UN is drafting its evaluation of the programmes that defined the Literacy Decade for release at the UN General Assembly this year, with a global Plan of Action to tackle the problem, we in Guyana face the daunting task of lifting our human resource capital to be able to perform at our optimal potential as a Guyanese nation, in the 21st century global village,” stated Education Minister, Priya Manickchand in her Literacy Day message.

The United Nations sees literacy as a fundamental human right, and the government has always recognised this right, and literacy has always been regarded as the foundation of a good education. “Education has always been at the forefront of our vision to develop this nation,” she noted.

Since Dr Cheddi Jagan’s idea for the formation of the University of Guyana was made a reality, Guyana has thrived as a nation to stand tall, to be outstanding on the world stage in its literacy achievements and in educating Guyanese.

Over the past decades, significant amounts of money have been expended on physical infrastructure, teacher training, providing teaching resources, and looking

after the welfare of school children, across the country. Such is based on the government budgeting well for education year after year, and has resulted in a young nation producing renowned leaders, great writers, internationally acclaimed intellectuals, accomplished thinkers and world class citizens.

“Our commitment and resolve to develop this nation on the solid foundation of education and literacy is an outstanding tribute to the visionaries who shaped us as a nation, always emphasising literacy and education…we need to recommit ourselves to this vision,” Minister Manickchand said.

However, the 21st century is unfolding a new global literacy paradigm which is even more challenging than the basic literacy needs of previous years. As communications technology sees the world becoming more and more a global village, as citizens of this new world are able to compete across borders for skilled human resource assets and original thinkers, as skilled Guyanese become more and more in demand in the developed world, “we face unprecedented challenges to train, keep and maintain a national pool of committed human resource capital that is world class” she stated.

The minister highlighted that the Government recognises that a fully literate Guyanese society is the foundation upon which this nation can be developed. “We have demonstrated our commitment and dedication to the vision of literacy for our people,” she added.

The minister illustrated that it’s a new world, with new challenges, where many children no longer like reading long texts, where literature no longer plays a big role in a child’s imagination, where parents hardly read to their children anymore, where the village no longer raises the child.

“Yet, the Guyanese nation is resilient, ambitious and ready to take on this challenge…as Minister of Education, I commit to the nation all my energy to see that every Guyanese citizen become a global citizen embodying an educated imagination,” Minister Manickchand stated.

In this regard, the Ministry of Education will work hard to implement a dynamic literacy vision that is flexible and reaches every Guyanese.

In her message,Irina Bokova Director-General of UNESCO, on the occasion of International Literacy Day, which is being celebrated under the theme “Literacies for the 21st century”, emphasised that literacy is a basic right and an essential motor for human development that paves the way to autonomy, the acquisition of skills, cultural expression and full participation in society.

She noted that illiteracy in the world has fallen over the two decades, thanks to international efforts and work towards the Millennium Development Goals.

Today, 84 percent of the world’s population can read and write, compared to 76 percent in 1990. In 20 years, the illiterate population has been reduced by more than 100 million people. (Guyana Chronicle)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

9

Return of property tax deceptive, says Rowley TRINIDAD -- The proposed reintroduction of the property tax to be announced in today’s budget is an indication of how “deceptive’ the People’s Partnership Government can be. Making the remark was Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley as he toured Lopinot yesterday. “I think finally the population will understand how deceptive this government can be,” he said. “I want to make the point that the Government met a law in place and have taken an oath of office to observe the law. “It is not the first time this Government has tried to bring back what that they have condemned.” Saying the “bottom line” was that the PP Government ran a campaign against property tax, Rowley added that Finance Minister Larry Howai was “not fooling anyone.” “At the end of the tax, property owners will make a contribution by paying taxes...It used to be called Land and Building Taxes,” he said. “What you are going to end up with is the Government trying to convince you that it is not that but it is really that so let’s wait and see what the minister says.”

In the meantime, however, the Opposition Leader said, significant revenues have been lost during 2010 to 2013 from those who were “quite happy” to pay their land and building taxes. “Prakash Ramadhar and the COP condemned a tax which they are now seeking to reproduce as something different...It’s the same thing,”

he said. “To own property you’re required to pay a tax based on the valuation. The minister is now saying it is not that it is different, it is that the last government did not consult,” Rowley said. He said the Government has now accepted that it was wrong, unreasonable and now looking for a way to bring back property tax “without losing political face.” On budget expectations, Rowley said he expected the Government to continue to be “irresponsible” which it had been doing in the past. “I expect the Government to do what it has been doing for the last three years which is to act as irresponsible as possible,” he said. “They believe they could please everybody by giving them what they want, even though by giving what they want you will not, in fact, improve their situation.”

He added what the country had lost in the last few years was the confidence to go forward and confidence to initiate. “And against that you had a government that virtually stopped everything that was going on in the country,” Rowley said. “The property tax was symptomatic of everything else. It was not just the property tax that they had gone against. They went against industrialisation, the revenue authority...everything that the previous government was doing, this government condemned.” He also accused the Government of “playing around for three years” and was now trying to find “something to

do to make themselves useful.”

Candidates introduced During yesterday’s walk, Rowley also introduced two of the PNM’s candidates who would be contesting October’s local government elections. Twenty-five year old Tova Lin Bartholomew, who has a bachelor of science degree in political science from the University of the West Indies, St Augustine, described herself as an “admirer of politics” and one who enjoyed com-

munity work. “Looking at the current political landscape there is a deep desire for a new refreshment to the politics in T&T...

This is probably my biggest challenge but I know I’m capable,” she said. Bartholomew would be contesting the Five Rivers/Lopinot district. Judy Garnar, who would be going up for the La Fluorescent/Clever district, said the community approached her to represent them. If elected, she said, one area to be immediately tackled was infrastructure. (Trinidad Guardian)

THA wants Tobago housing addressed in budget TRINIDAD -- THA Chief secretary Orville London, is hoping that Tobago’s housing woes will be addressed following Minister of Finance Larry Howai’s budget speech today. Speaking at the post-executive council news conference last Thursday, London said, the Division of Settlements and Labour in the Tobago House of Assembly, headed by secretary Huey Cadette, has a backlog of 6,000 applications for housing. However, he said due to the slow rate of allocation by the Central Government, Tobago is being left at an unequal footing compared to Trinidad. “We receive an average of $20 million a year, which can provide about thirty houses,” he said.

London also advised Tobagonians to listen to the budget objectively, not-

ing that the budget is not just about what occurs in the THA but what happens to the country on a whole. “I urge the people of Tobago to listen carefully see what is happening with respect to property tax, see what is happening with respect to the social security safety nets, see what is happening with respect to the utilisation of our energy resources, see what signals are being sent with respect to the energy resources of Tobago because we want Tobagonians to be involved in the conversation” he said. One week after the budget, the entire assembly is expected to go into retreat to re-prioritise funding allocated to the THA. All secretaries, assistant secretaries, administrators and budget analysts are expected to attend. (Trinidad Guardian)

10 Wednesday, September 11, 2013

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Guyana and U.S. are really in partnership on TIP …not in conflict, says US Charge dʼAffaires Bryan Hunt GUYANA -- Charge d’Affaires of the US Embassy in Georgetown, Bryan Hunt, has dismissed suggestions that there is tension between the Guyana government and the United States over the latter’s 2013 State Department Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report, pointing out that they are really in partnership with one another and not in conflict.

This year Guyana was downgraded from Tier 2 to the Tier 2 Watch List.

“I think we actually have a fairly good record of partnership on that issue,” Hunt told this newspaper on Friday in an exclusive interview, adding that only recently he had spoken alongside Minister of Home Affairs Clement Rohee and Minister of Human Services and Social Security Jennifer Webster at a workshop on human trafficking.

He conceded that the Guyana government was “not happy” with the downgrade. Subsequent to the report’s release this year, the Donald Ramotar-led administration denounced its findings and angrily declared that it would no longer cooperate with the US government’s survey for information on human trafficking.

Hunt, however, sought to downplay the Guyana government’s ire, saying: “Reasonable people can disagree about whether or not Guyana should sit on Tier 2 or Tier 2 Watch List. We take one position, the Government of Guyana has a different one. I respect their position.”

According to the new Deputy Chief of Mission, “the crux of the matter on human trafficking isn’t about really where Guyana ranks on the report; it is about what is being done collectively to address the issue.”

Hunt admitted that the United States’ “record on human trafficking is far from perfect.

“We have taken a number of steps in our own country to try to address it [but] I wouldn’t say that everything we’ve done has been effective. We, like Guyana, like most other countries, really are making efforts to try to improve the situation, so I think this is an issue on which where we (the U.S. and Guyana) are really in partnership with one another, not in conflict.”

The diplomat acknowledged that “the Guyana government has taken in the last few months a number of, I think, very important steps to begin to address the issue, to begin to arrest and prosecute those who are responsible for human trafficking in the country.”

At the human-trafficking workshop held last week, Hunt had specifically lauded the Guyana government for its successful prosecution of an Essequibo disco owner, and a couple on charges of human trafficking.

Hunt also hailed the work that the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security“has been doing in partnership with civil society and the international commu-

nity to try to raise awareness about the issue, to try to help to get people out of dangerous situations in which they find themselves, to try to do more to get communities to report instances of trafficking.

“Hopefully, with their (the government’s) efforts this year, assuming they’re sustained and continued, they’ll move back up to Tier 2,” he reasoned.

When pressed as to whether the U.S.’s pronouncements on Guyana’s performance on human trafficking amounts to interference in domestic affairs, the Charge d’Affaires said: “I don’t think it’s really a question of international sovereignty when we’re talking about human trafficking.”

Human trafficking is an issue that has been recognised as being international in nature and it is not a purely domestic issue, not even for the United States, he said.

Pointing to the Palermo Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons (especially women and children), he noted that human trafficking is something that has been clearly defined and outlawed by the international community. At least 157 states have ratified the protocol.

Seeking to assert that the State Department Human Trafficking report is not a mechanism for meddling in countries’ affairs, he explained that like the State Department’s Human Rights report and International Religious Freedom report, the Trafficking in Persons report is “fundamentally”

a legislatively mandated report from the executive branch of the US government to its legislative branch, the Congress. The US Congress uses the State Department’s assessment of each country’s efforts to adhere to the Palermo protocol, he said, as a basis to decide whether or not to extend trade benefits or other incentives to these countries.

When quizzed on the publicity which accompanies the release of each year’s US report on human trafficking, Hunt contended: “All such correspondence in our system is public; we share that report broadly, internationally, we make it available to the media, we make it available to foreign governments to use as they see fit. Because we believe in freedom of information, we don’t think these sorts of things should be hidden in a drawer somewhere.”

When asked why the US government’s assessment of Trafficking in Persons is given prominence over similar reports prepared by the International Organization for Migration, NGOs and other civil society groups, he opined: “I’d like to think it’s because over the last 10 years we’ve been doing this report, people have seen that the effort that’s put into it generally results in a product which is accurate and useful and that’s why people continue to cite the US report as one of the most important measures of how countries are doing on human trafficking.” (Guyana Chronicle)

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Ban jet skis, Negril Resort Board urges McNeill JAMAICA -- The Negril Resort Board has passed a resolution calling on Minister of Tourism and Entertainment Dr Wykeham McNeill to place a temporary ban on the operation of jet skis in the resort town of Negril.

“The board members, after a lengthy discussion, unanimously decided that they would recommend a temporary ban until a lot of grey areas, as it relates to policies which govern the operations of jet skis are clarified, and therefore they are asking that a letter be sent to the minister (Dr Wykeham McNeill) in this regard,” said Cliff Reynolds, the chairman of the Negril Resort Board.

The resolution calling for the temporary ban on the operation of jet skis in Negril was made on Thursday during the regular monthly meeting of the Resort Board held in Negril.

At that meeting, Pansy Rayson, operator of Rayon Hotel in Negril, expressed the view that guests are being harassed by some operators, in their quest to get customers.

Reynolds, in the meantime,

pointed to some of the issues needing clarification, which he claimed are negatively impacting the industry.

“As it relates to seizure of jet skis, only two officers of the Tourism Product Development Company (TPDCo) are able to seize the motorcraft and not the police. The police are only able to give tickets,” said Reynolds, adding that the two TPDCo officers are not enough.

He stressed that his members want the police to be given the power to make seizures.

Reynolds told the Jamaica Observer that whenever there is a joint TPDCo/police operation in the area, illegal jet ski operators are normally made aware and subsequently leave the beach. He added that the police are of the opinion that they are being “laughed at” because a ticket only attracts a fine of $2,000, while the usage of a jet ski by a customer costs more than $4,000 per hour.

Reynolds also pointed to what he said are complications in the classification of jet skis, “such as issues

between a private and a commercial operation.”

A jet ski is a small jet propelled-vehicle that skims across the surface of water and is typically ridden like a bike.

Meanwhile, Assistant Superintendent Ryan Gayle, who is in charge of the Negril Police Station, has expressed support for the temporary ban and is calling for new laws governing jet skis.

“The truth is that we need laws that govern how persons using the craft are governed at sea. Saying that I’m just the guest using the craft, and the owner alone is accountable is not enough, it is just not enough,” he stressed.

In recent months there have been numerous calls for changes to the regulations governing the operation of jet skis in the coastal town of Negril.

It is believed that roughly 90 per cent of the jet skis operating in the town are not licensed. (Jamaica Observer)

Drug-smuggling Jamaicans in Barbados make lawyer sick JAMAICA -- Jaydene Thomas, a Jamaican lawyer practising in Barbados, has admitted that she is sickened to the core by the number of Jamaicans who get caught attempting to smuggle drugs into that eastern Caribbean island.

Thomas, who is representing a Jamaican woman who after being found guilty of attempting to smuggle marijuana into Barbados, was sexually abused by police officers while in custody, said that at least one Jamaican each week appears before the courts for drug-related matters in that country.

This she said helps to put all Jamaicans in a bad light and allows for immigration officials at the Grantley Adams Airport to treat law-abiding Jamaicans with disdain and subject them to harsh treatment.

Figures released by Jamaica’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade last year, revealed that a total of 1,485 Jamaicans were refused entry on arrival in Barbados between 2007 and 2012.

“Every week at least one Jamaican appears in court for bringing up drugs. It’s getting ridiculous and it looks bad. Trust me, every single week I can count on a Jamaican to be in court for drugs and it is always the same story. Most are from the country areas. I am tired of helping them,” Thomas told the Jamaica Observer.

Jamaicans, along with Guyanese nationals, are most often refused entry into Barbados than other Caricom nationals.

While there are no modern X-

ray machines installed at the Grantley Adams Airport as is the case at Jamaica’s two airports, where ionscan machines donated by the British Government have been set up, narcotics officers at the airport have employed strategies that will nab offenders and Thomas is pleading with Jamaicans to desist from getting involved with the illicit trade, despite the promise of big money.

“I want to make a plea to the Jamaicans who are bringing in drugs and those who are contemplating it, to stop. Don’t do it. They will be caught and the promise of payment of US$1,000 is not worth it,” Thomas warned.

The sentences for drug trafficking in that country are heavy.

The Barbados dollar is valued at US 50 cents.

“They don’t realise that it’s a fine or prison and the fines aren’t normal because if they get caught, the minimum amount for a fine is US$7,500 and I have seen fines for BDS$150,000 for 2 kilos of cocaine,” Thomas said.

Jamaicans have long complained of being subjected to unfair treatment at the hands of the Barbadian officials, but Thomas is of the view that the behaviour of some of her countrymen have fanned the flames of that fire.

In May this year, 20-year-old Shanique Ameike Hyman of 90 West Street in Kingston, was sentenced to 12 months after she passed out 17 parcels of marijuana weighing half a pound at the Queen Elizabeth Hospi-

tal.

The pregnant Hyman arrived in Barbados from Trinidad, cleared immigration and was then interviewed by the police.

She was arrested and taken to the hospital and examined by a doctor where she confessed that she was pregnant. This was confirmed by ultrasound.

The young woman also admitted that she had ingested drugs, and tests revealed contraband in her digestive system.

Hyman admitted in court that she was smuggling the ganja to support her family and pleaded guilty to possession of cannabis, possession with intent to supply, trafficking in the drug and importing the drug.

Thomas also had a warning for Jamaican women who travel to the eastern Caribbean island to make a living off the sex trade by working as exotic dancers or in massage parlours, that they too are taking a big risk.

The Jamaican women are sought after in Barbados and often promised big bucks by Barbadian pimps to sell their ‘wares’ in that country.

But Thomas issued a stern warning that Jamaican women should be wary of the hustlers.

“Your passports will get taken from you as soon as you land and you will have no way out. You will be exploited and will have to be constantly watching your backs because you are running from the law,” she said. (Jamaica Observer)

Wednesday, September 11, 2013 11

12 Wednesday, September 11, 2013

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Warriors play for third place in OSN Cup TRINIDAD -- Trinidad and Tobago will try to reverse the results from their three previous meetings with Saudi Arabia when both countries clash in the playoff for third place at the OSN Cup 2013 at the King Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh from 1145 am (T&T Time) today.

The “Soca Warriors” will be looking to maintain their solid showing from the previous encounter in which they recovered from a three-goal deficit to take the match to penalty kicks against United Arab Emirates which will face New Zealand in the final later.

“This match gives us another good chance to come together as a team for an international game and to see how well we put things into practice and perspective on the field of play,” head coach Stephen Hart said.

“We had a couple more days to settle in after the first match and with a couple more sessions in, it will be one of those games where we will try to start more positively and we would have known what to expect in terms of the conditions heading into the game itself.”

T&T have played Saudi Arabia three times before, losing 3-2 and 1-0 in 1994 and then 2-1 in Cannes, France in 1998 in a match the Saudi Arabians used as a warm up for the 1998 World Cup. “We’ve had a chance to look at the Saudi Arabia team in the game against New Zealand and our preparations have been based around the game and the way we want to approach it,” said Hart.

“Of course we are building for our future engagements as well which is centered around the qualification for 2018 so we will try to maximize every opportunity to have a look at the players in our pool and at the same time try to put the best team on the pitch with the intention of finding the right combination,” Hart added.

Former Under 17 and Under 20 player Marcus Joseph made his competitive senior debut against the UAE, starting on the left flank while Columbus Crew midfielder Kevan George g also made his debut, coming g on in the

second half.

Hart will be pleased that the likes of Molino and Willis Plaza can provide him with options in attack while Slovak-based winger Lester Peltier was lively in the first match on his first return since the Caribbean Cup in December. The midfield duo of Ande Boucaud and Khaleem Hyland will no doubt want to perform their roles well while defenders Radanfah Abu Bakr, Justin Hoyte, Aubrey David, Sheldon Bateau and Robert Primus will be keen to ensure T&T does not have to come from behind again, at least not by three goals.

Saudi coach, Juan Ramon Lopez Caro said his team prepared well for the tournament and is keen to capture third place.

“We prepared hard for this tournament. It was disappointing to lose the first match to New Zealand but our players are still eager to do well. We will like to play a good match and to win it on Monday. Trinidad and Tobago did very well to tie the game late (on Thursday) so I expect it to be an exciting game,” said Spanish coach who took over the job from Frank Rijkaard in 2012 after previous managing Real Madrid’s B Team as well as Racing Santander and Celta de Vigo T&T skipper Kenwyne Jones is well aware that the hosts will want to finish the tournament with a win.

“Definitely they will want to end the tournament with a victory because they are the host country but we also did not make the trip to just come here and play just for the sake of it. I think our current bunch of players are ambitious in terms of what they want to achieve in the game and that was demonstrated by the way we fought back to try and avoid the loss in the previous match,” Jones said.

“Every game is an additional cap and experience for us and we are working towards putting the country back into a respectable position on the world football map and a good result on Monday will obviously be boost to that effort,” said the Stoke City man who now has 57 appearances for T&T with ten goals to his name. (T ((Trinidad rinidad Guardian)

Ricketts saves again on day of 100th cap PANAMA CITY -- Donovan Ricketts is the elder statesman of Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz.

It was close toss-up between him and debutant defender Wes Morgan, for he was the outstanding player for Jamaica in Friday night’s CONCACAF World Cup qualifier against Panama away.

While Morgan distinguished himself at the heart of Jamaica’s defence, Ricketts was busy plucking out balls aimed at his goal whenever the frustrated Panamanians found a way through.

Plus, the game was Ricketts’ 100th as an international, and that in itself, is worthy of commendation of a man who started out more than 16 years ago at the senior level.

“It’s a special feeling because not many players get to play 100 games at this level, so I have to say it’s one of my crowning moments in my football career,” said the 35-year-old Portland Timbers goaltender.

Never one to dwell on self-glory, Ricketts quickly turned the focus on his team’s 0-0 draw against Panama on Friday night in a Brazil 2014 World Cup qualifying match where victory was a must to put the crusade on track.

“It wasn’t really a brilliant performance, but we had a job to do and get three points; it wasn’t pretty, but we stuck to the task

and fought hard even when we went down to 10 men.”

The true leader he is, Rickets, popularly called ‘Tall P’ for obvious reasons, was modest when asked about his input on Friday, preferring instead to shower praise on his teammates.

“For me, it was just a regular game and I mopped up whenever I was called to mop up... nothing special.

“However, Wes Morgan was outstanding last night (Friday) as he really defended well, and Mr (Shaun) Cummings wasn’t bad either, and was solid when he was at left back and when he was switched to the right, so overall it was pretty impressive from our debutants last night,” said the former Los Angeles Galaxy standout.

Looking ahead to Jamaica’s next assignment on Tuesday, Ricketts said in a mustwin match-up, goals have to be scored, a lack of which has put the Reggae Boyz’s World Cup desires in shambles.

“As you can see, we haven’t been scoring. So in a must-win game we must defend as well as we did in the last game and put away our chances. If we don’t win, then it’s all over, so we must come out and score goals because we have quality strikers,” he argued.

(Jamaica Observer)

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14 Wednesday, September 11, 2013

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Red Force hammers Windwards

TRINIDAD -- T&T’s Red Force continued their build up for the Champions League T20 tournament with an emphatic win over the Windwards in their second warm-up match at the Mindoo Philip Park, Dominica on Saturday night.

Playing in front of a capacity crowd, the Red Force showed why they are the best T20 team in the Caribbean, as they steamrolled the home team by seven wickets with five overs and a ball to spare.

Chasing a competitive 139 runs for victory, the T&T boys got an excellent start between Adrian Barath and Evin Lewis.

The right/left hand combination thrilled the crowd as they played an array of delightful shots in their opening association of 65 runs from just six overs.

Barath was the first to go for 29 off 23 balls with four fours. His partner Lewis, who has been in tremendous form during these warm-ups continued to plunder the bowling and scored 44 off 22 balls

with six fours and a six.

After they left Darren Bravo (20 off 20 balls) and Jason Mohammed kept the scoreboard ticking.

When Bravo left, skipper Denesh Ramdin, who has enjoying a good patch came in and quickly ended the contest with 27 not out off 12 balls. He hammered two sixes and three fours and when the victory came Jason Mohammed was with him on 14 not out off 14 balls.

Earlier, West Indies opener Johnson Charles gave the home crowd a lot to cheer for as they creamed the Red Force bowling to the tune of 51 runs. His 29-ball epic contained four sixes and three fours and the only bowler he spared by fellow West Indies player Samuel Badree, who sent down four over at an economical 12 runs.

Charles, together with Andre Fletcher 28 off 32 balls and Kaveem Hodge 39 not out off 36 balls, gave their

side a fighting score but their bowlers were not up to the task.

Bowling for T&T Rayad Emrit continued his good form with another two wickets, taking his tally to 13 in four warm-up matches, while Sherwin Ganga also chipped in with two scalps.

The T&T team returned home last night and will now prepare to leave for India on September 15 to compete in the Champions League.

SCOREBOARD Windwards vs T&T Windwards inns J Charles st Ramdin b Ganga 51 G Benjamin c Ramdin b Emrit 0 A Fletcher lbw Emrit 28 K Hodge not out 39 D Smith c Stewart b Ottley 4 J Jervier c Ramdin b Ganga 5 K James not out 4

Extras 7 Total for 5wkts 139 Fall of wkts: 1, 77, 83, 96, 103.

Bowling: S Badree 4-0-12-1, N Stewart 4-0-26-0, R Emrit 4-0-37-2, K Ottley 4-027-1, S Ganga 4-0-34-2.

TT inns A Barath c Hodge b George 29 E Lewis c Hodge b Titre 44 D Bravo c Fletcher b Hodge 20 J Mohammed not out 14 D Ramdin not out 27 Extras 5 Total 3 wkts (14.5) 139 Bowling: E Mark 2-0-18-0, R Casimir 3-035-0, J Charles 1-0-20-0, V Titre 4-0-22-1, O George 3-0-25-1, K Hodge 1.5-0-18-1.

Result: T&T won by 7 wkts. Wins series 2-0. (Trinidad Guardian)

16 Wednesday, September 11, 2013

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Caribbean Pot: How to cook curry goat in a pressure cooker

5 red birds eye pepper (or 1/2 scotch bonnet) 1 scallion 1 teaspoon curry powder for seasoning the meat 2 tablespoon curry powder for cooking 1/2 teaspoon amchar masala (optional but goes well with this dish) 1 tablespoon Caribbean green seasoning 2 leaves shado beni (bhandhanya) 1 teaspoon ketchup 2 tablespoon vegetable oil 3 cups water

One of those dishes you immediately think about when you envision Caribbean cuisine

Chris De La Rosa Caribbean Cooking Curry goat or goat curry as it’s called in Guyana is one of those dishes you immediately think about when you envision Caribbean cuisine and rightly so, as it’s something you’ll find being prepared on just about every island in the Caribbean. Though the recipe may differ from island to island one thing is common – it must be tender. This

usually means cooking it slowly for at least a couple hours to the point where the meat falls off the bones. And though you now get boneless curry goat at the many Caribbean take-out restaurants, the pieces with bone is still the traditional cut of goat meat to use. It can be argued that there’s much more flavor in the bones.

Ingredients 3 lbs goat 1 teaspoon salt dash black pepper 1 medium onion sliced 4 cloves garlic crushed or sliced thin 3 sprigs thyme 1 tomato sliced

sear the meat and allow it to pick up some of that lovely curry colour and flavor from the bottom of the pot.

After 10-15 minutes on high heat, top with the other ingredients and secure the lid on the pressure cooker. Cook for 30-35 minutes as per your pressure cooker instructions.

Ensure the pressure cooker is cool before opening (release air and run cool water over it if in a rush). You should now have tender curry goat, but the gravy may be runny for your liking. With the lid off, put the open pressure cooker back on the flame (high) and burn off the liquid until you have a gravy the consistency you like.

TIP. Goat can be notoriously fatty, so what I usually do is after it’s done pressure cooking I allow it to cool completely (before thickening the gravy) and in doing so you’ll see a thin layer of fat at the top form (very thick). Spoon that out and discard. Now turn up the heat to get the gravy ri right. ighht.

I li llike ike ke uusssing goat with the bones, but if you prefer (and can afford it) you can certainly used boneless goat.

Season the washed goat with the salt, black pepper, Caribbean green seasoning, amchar masala (roasted ground cumin will work as well), ketchup (adds a nice acidic layer), teaspoon of curry, the chopped tomato and the chopped scallions. Mix well and allow to marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight may give even better results.

By cooking this curry goat in the pressure cooker we cut the cooking time by about 2/3s, so if you’re ever pressed for time, this pressure cooker curry goat recipe will come in handy. If you don’t have a pressure cooker, you’ll have to bring the pot to a boil after adding all the ingredients, then reduce to a gentle simmer for about 2 to 2.5 hours (lid on). Remember to stir and do check to see if there’s enough g liquid q as it cooks slowly. y

H Heatt th the vegetable t bl oil il iin th the pressure cooker (same steps if you’re not using a pressure cooker) on med/high heat and toss in the diced onion and garlic. Turn the heat down to low and let it cook slowly for 3-5 minutes. With the heat still on low, now toss in the curry powder (2 tablespoon – I use a madras blend made in the Caribbean) and stir well. Let that go for another 3 minutes or so on low heat to cook off the raw curry taste. Add the peppers, cook for a minute and then add the seasoned goat.

Turn the heat up as you want to

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Wednesday, September 11, 2013 17

What is Mantra Yoga Geeta Maraj Yoga Mantram is the ancient word for Mantra.

A mantra can vary from a single syllable or word to a series of words which hold a sacred connection. The systemic repetition of a mantra induces spiritual cleansing of the mind. Through Mantra recitation, thoughts become more focused, thereby creating greater mental and emotional strength. Mantra also serves to control the busy mind, and can be used as a way to conquer health issues, such as depression, hypertension and cardiac problems. The ultimate goal of mantra yoga

however, is to find a spiritual union with a higher consciousness.

The practice of mantric recitations is called Mantra Yoga, also referred to as Japa Yoga. Mantra Yoga is one of the approximately 40 different types of yogic practices, all of which are interconnected. Mantras can be chanted in many forms. They can be spoken verbally (Vaikhari Japa), recited mentally (Manasika Japa), whispered or hummed (Upamsu Japa), or written (Likhita Japa).

Various types of japa can be combined to improve focusing of the mind.

For example, Manasika Japa, is quite subtle, yet very effective in controlling the turbulent mind. For a beginner however, it may be difficult to maintain such mental chanting. Alternating Manasika Japa (mental) with Vaikhari Japa (vocal), can be a way of preventing the mind from wandering, thereby, improving the beneficial effects of Mantra Yoga.

The words of a mantra are meant

to create an energetic vibration through sound, which increases the positive energy of the body. Positive energy is essential to all living things, whether human, plant or animal. Our every thought and action is dependant upon this energy. The effect of positive energy can be experienced while in the company of others.

If we are in the presence of someone who has a naturally calm energy, their positive aura gets transmitted to us, and we experience a sense of lightness and peace. Likewise, a depressed sense of being is experienced when we are exposed to someone with poor aura. Similarly, we also affect the aura of others based on the energy we emit. Therefore, by reciting a mantra, we not only spiritually benefit ourselves, through a lighter aura, but we equally benefit those around us.

Mantra recitation serves to quieten the busy mind. A busy mind is the key cause of many ailments that are a norm in today’s society. With a calmer

mind, daily tensions and frustrations are subdued and we become more accepting of our experiences. In time, one finds through mantra recitation, issues, such as, depression, stress and anxiety gradually dissipate as we learn to disconnect from aggressive and angry tendencies. With a calmer mind, we evolve into beings of greater compassion and love, consequently tapping into our natural inner state of peacefulness, calmness, courage, and patience.

An analogy of the beauteous miracles of Mantra repetition has been compared to going on a long journey. In that, while each step of the journey superficially resembles the other, each stride, uniquely takes us into new territory and moves us closer to our destination. Similarly, continuous chanting of a mantra may appear monotonous; yet, each repetition takes us slightly deeper into our consciousness, and closer to the goal of love and joyful awareness.

18 Wednesday, September 11, 2013

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

As Fukushima continues to leak radiation, protect yourself with Bentonite Clay The earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan in March 2011 and left the Fukushima power plant damaged and leaking radiation into the environment seems to have faded into the past, but the dangers to the environment and human health are far from over, with the latest leak of highly radioactive water being described by the plant operators, TEPCO (Tokyo Electric Power Co), as a serious radiation incident.

TEPCO finally admitted in July that radioactive water has been leaking from the plant and is now taking steps to try to prevent any future leaks from ending up in the Pacific Ocean. But the latest leak is the largest yet with a massive 300 tonnes of highly radioactive water escaping from a damaged tank and creating fears that it will be washed from the land with rainwater into the sea.

The obvious question for those who might be in danger of being exposed to this leaked radiation is how do we protect ourselves? One way is to use bentonite clay.

The amazing healing power of bentonite clay Healing clays have been traditionally used as natural medicine by mankind for thousands of years and are still used regularly by people around the world for their healing and health promoting properties. Bentonite is one of the best of those healing clays and is part of a class of clay minerals known as smectite.

Bentonite clay is made up of flat

rectangular particles, which, when hydrated, have a powerful negative charge, giving them an amazing ability to pull to their surface, and hold on to, positively charged ions, similar to the way a magnet will pull and hold on to iron filings.

This makes bentonite clay a powerful therapy that can be used to not only remove radiation from the body but also heavy metals, pollutants, bacteria, fungus, viruses and even parasites. Bentonite clay can be used internally, mixed with water, or externally in baths as well as in poultices and compresses.

Bentonite clay has been found to be a simple and safe treatment for a wide range of health issues and can be useful for adults, children and pets. For example, clay baths have been found by many parents of autistic children to often provide positive

results, because the clay removes mercury as well as other heavy metals and pollutants.

While most of us have no problem using clay externally, the prospect of consuming clay can be a little daunting, but the health benefits are real and the taste is not so bad. If clay is to be consumed, ensure that it is calcium bentonite clay (not sodium bentonite, which is not suitable for consumption). Never let bentonite clay come into contact with metal, and ensure that plastic or glass are used to mix and store it. When taking clay internally, mix between 1 teaspoon and 1 tablespoon in 8 oz of water and consume at least two hours away from taking any food, supplements or medication.

(NaturalNews)

Six food-based medicines that may save your life The famous quote by the ancient Greek physician Hippocrates states, “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.”

And this timeless adage still holds incredible truth today, as the most effective way to protect the body against disease is to feed it the nutrients it needs to build strong immunity and a healthy digestive tract, which is where the bulk of immunity resides. Here are six food-based medicines that could end up saving your life from chronic disease and early death: 1. Garlic. Also known as Allium sativum L., garlic, which some have fondly nicknamed a “masterpiece of nature,” is one of the most medicinally potent herbs you can take regularly for vibrant health.

Recognized for its ability to prevent and treat bacterial infections, yeasts, fungi, and viruses, as well as promote healthy blood flow; lower blood cholesterol levels, and detoxify heavy metals and other poisons, garlic truly is a medicinal superfood of the highest order.

Deriving garlic’s many health benefits can be as simple as merely slicing up a fresh clove and adding it to a meal, or taking a high-quality garlic supplement daily. No matter how you choose to take it, consuming garlic regularly can help prevent colds, influenza, bacterial infections, blood clots, abnormal blood sugar levels, free radical damage, heavy metal toxicity,

chronic inflammatory diseases, and cancer, among other conditions.

2. Raw honey. Honey is another “superfood” medicine that has been used for centuries to boost immunity and provide a lasting source of energy. And because it basically never spoils, honey is a great food-based medicine to keep on hand at all times. Internally, honey can help treat bacterial infections, alleviate sore throats, subdue an upset stomach, and even cure bladder infections. Topically, honey is effective at treating eczema, canker sores, and even cuts and types of skin damage.

Manuka honey is particularly beneficial, as it contains exceptionally potent antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antiinflammatory, antioxidant, and antiseptic properties that are unmatched by any pharmaceutical drug on the market. As with all forms of honey; however, be sure to never feed this medicinal substance to children under the age of one, as their intestinal tracts are not developed enough to inhibit the growth of Clostridium botulinum, which can cause botulism.

3. Spirulina. A nutrient-dense blue-green algae that has been around since the beginning of time, spirulina is rich in amino acids, which are essentially pre-digested proteins readily available for quick absorption. A highly-bioavailable superfood, spirulina also contains an impres-

sive array of essential fatty acids, including omega-3 fatty acids, as well as B vitamins, carotenoid antioxidants, chlorophyll, and polysaccharides.

As far as your health is concerned, spirulina is a spectacular detoxifier that aids in the expulsion of heavy metals. Spirulina is also an amazing energizer, as it contains a perfect balance of protein, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.

4. Apples. You may not think of them as necessarily vital for sustaining life, but apples are an antioxidant powerhouse loaded with plenty of food-based medicine.

Besides having a high fiber content, which promotes healthy digestion, apples, and mainly apple skins, are rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, and various other disease-fighting antioxidants (http://www.naturalnews. com/033945_organic_apples_health_food. html). And since apples come in many colors -- red, yellow, pink green, and various combinations of these -- eating a wide variety of apples regularly can help guard your body against debilitating disease.

5. Chia seeds. The ancient Mayans referred to it as “strength,” but today we simply call them chia seeds. And if you are not eating chia seeds regularly, you are missing out on one of the most vibrant superfoods known to man. Among their many benefits are the fact that chia seeds are a complete and perfect protein, containing

roughly 23 percent protein per seed. Chia seeds are also packed with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins, trace minerals, and dietary fiber.

When added to water or other liquids, chia seeds develop a gelatinous coating around the seeds that buffer the exposure of carbohydrates to digestive enzymes in the stomach and gut, effectively slowing their conversion into blood sugar. Chia seeds also help regulate water intake and mineral absorption, balancing electrolyte levels and cell nutrition 6. Raw or sprouted almonds.

Truly raw almonds, not the pasteurized and irradiated imitations commonly sold in U.S. stores (http://www.naturalnews. com/021989_almonds_raw.html), are one of nature’s most perfect medicinal foods.

Possessing an optimal balance of protein, calcium, magnesium, and dietary fiber -- almonds have the highest dietary fiber content of any nut or seed -- almonds are another complete food much like chia seeds and spirulina.

If you are looking for a truly whole food that is rich in healthy fats and plant phytochemicals, which promote heart and cardiovascular health, raw or sprouted almonds are the ideal medicinal food to always keep on hand. (NaturalNews)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Shop Smart: How to select the right types of fish Dr. Lydia Thurton ND BASc

Health Tips Scientific studies have shown that eating fish on a regular basis lessens the risk of chronic diseases and can help you live longer. As a great source of healthy fats and protein, these little swimmers are a wise addition to your regular diet. The down side, eating fish can put one at risk for exposure to environmental toxins. Also, there are some fish populations that have been depleted by over-fishing leading to negative environmental consequences. Today’s article will discuss selecting the healthiest, most environmentally responsible fish.

Most North Americans are deficient in omega-3s and fish can offer us the most concentrated source of this type of healthy fat. A diet rich in omega-3s offers so many benefits. As a potent anti-inflammatory, these fats can reduce our risk for certain types of cancer, cardiovascular disease, de-

pression and Alzheimer’s disease. Very few nutrients have such a wide spread health benefit. It only makes sense to learn about what type of fish are right for you.

The most important thing to remember when shopping for fish is that you want to avoid fish that eat other fish. The reason for this is due to a process called biomagnification. Let’s take an environmental toxin like PCBs for example. PCB is a pollutant that takes a very long time to be broken down and persists for many years in the environment. PCBs have been found in tiny plankton, which are at the bottom of the food chain in a marine environment. If a small fish eats plankton, it also eats all of the PCBs. Now, when a larger fish comes along and eats a few contaminated small fish it also consumes all of the PCB found in the individual small fish, which can really add up. In fact, fish can concentrate up to nine million times more toxins than the water they swim in.

Examples of fish that are on the top of the food chain are swordfish, shark, marlin, Ahi tuna and orange roughy. Although it is hard to resist a bake and shark on the beach in Trinidad, these fish really should be avoided entirely. Safer fish include herring, mackarel, sardines, haddock and tila-

pia. Seafood like scallops, shrimp and crab are also less risky.

As consumption of fish rises some wild fish populations are beginning to dwindle. Black sea bass, snapper, and atlantic salmon are among the most endangered. As a general rule, fish from the Atlantic tend to be more endangered than fish from the Pacific.

So, if given a choice choose a fish from Pacific waters. Losing a species of fish can impact an entire ecosystem, with serious consequences.

Some fish, like salmon, are farmed in giant pens. At first this was seen as a way of saving natural, wild fish populations, but unfortunately this is not the case. Farmed salmon tend to be subject to more antibiotics as infections can run rampant when animals are contained in a closed environment. The fish tends to have less omega-3s and poorer quality protein.

What few people know is that it actually takes pounds of wild fish to feed these farmed fish, which really doesn’t improve on the environment at all.

Shop smart and choose wild, little fish from Pacific waters. My top fish selections for health and sustainability: Pacific cod, albacore tuna, sardines, and sablefish. One more note, deep fried fish sticks are not a health food.

Early treatment is key for deformed jaws and crooked teeth Dr. Matthew Weekes BSC DDS MTh DMin

Dental

Parents get alarmed when they start to notice that their toddlers are developing crowded teeth. The front teeth may protrude produc- ing a “Bugs Bunny” profile or teeth may erupt in abnormal

positions looking like fangs.

These children often have narrow jaws, re- duced airway space, difficulty breathing as a result of airway obstructions, such as en- larged tonsils.

Snoring may be a symptom. The jaw joints may also be affected in cas- es of deep overbites or under bites causing headaches, neck pain, dizziness, earaches, or clicking in the jaws. Speech problems can also develop.

Many of these children may have low self- esteem, since they are often self-conscious about the unsightly appearance of their teeth; and may endure teasing at school.

Early treatment is the key. Although crooked teeth can be corrected at any age, jaw defor- mities are best corrected early.

Functional appliances can help correct un- derdeveloped jaws, narrow arches, crowded teeth, deep overbites, thumb sucking and joint problems.

Children cooperate best be- tween the ages of 8 to 11.

Most children over the age of 12 with the above conditions will require Orthodontic treatment (Braces) but the treatment would be shorter if they were wearing functional appliances earlier.

Hot weather workouts weight. Some even believe the body sary precautions to keep your body as Monique Bartlett Fitness Now that summer is almost over, fitness enthusiasts are still trying to get out there and lose weight while running, cycling or working out in the hot temperatures. They claim that the weather increases the body temperature due to the heat and sweat, and that the increased temperature results in more calories burned and losing more

pushes itself more to deal with the temperature. This is only partially true though. You don’t burn more calories just because it is hot.

Sweating is perceived to be a form of weight loss. You need to actively engage muscles to burn calories and sweating happens to be a byproduct of doing so. Sweating is the body’s way to control body temperature. In hot weather, the heart needs to work harder to make sure the body temperature is maintained. Training in temperatures that are too high may result in a lower intensity of exercise and may not be as effective.

Working out in the heat can be a risk. You should take the neces-

cool as possible. Symptoms of heat exhaustion vary from heavy sweating, clammy skin, nausea or weakness.

Weakness in any part of the body, losing consciousness and leg cramps can be common.

It’s necessary to make sure you have adequate hydration by drinking enough water or replenishing moisture loss with electrolytes such as Gatorade. It’s also important to wear moisture wicking clothes and footwear, and wear sunscreen and a hat. If you have any doubts about your ability to work out in the heat, just don’t do it. Workout inside or wait until it gets cooler outside.

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TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Renovations, m Renovations, mortgage mortgag orrtgage rrenewal enewal & iinvesting nvesti esting

Stephen Mohammed Finance Real Estate - Renovations and maintenance are an integral part of home ownership. Home owners take pride in the way their home looks. Renovations and maintenance help with the resale value of your home and a house that is well maintained in addition to landscape and curb appeal adds significant value to the neighbourhood. You may also add value with additions and renovations. When obtaining quotes for repairs or renovations, it is suggested that you obtain at least three quotes.

Do your due diligence and research the companies that you are intending to do business with. Utilize the internet and it’s resources to assist you in making informed decisions regarding the work you would like to have done. Make sure the company you are thinking of hiring is licensed and insured to undertake the task that you require them to complete. Your realtor may recommend someone in the industry that he or she may have worked with before. You can also visit the Better Business Bureau if you have any questions or concerns about the companies bidding for your business at http://www.bbb.org/ canada/.

Mortgage - In most cases mortgage renewal is automatic. Lenders must provide you with a renewal statement at least twenty one days before the end of the existing term indicating the renewal options. Inter-

est rate and length of term are the key options to look for. The financial institution that currently holds the mortgage may not offer you the best interest rate available at the time of renewal. It is a good idea to start shopping around to see what other lenders may have to offer. This process however, requires you fill out a mortgage application and provide supporting documents in order to qualify for the mortgage.

A mortgage application and supporting documents is not required when renewing with the current lender. The current lender may decide not to renew the mortgage, in which case you have no choice but to seek financing with another lender. The lender must notify you at least twenty one days if they decide not to renew the mortgage. Your mortgage agent or broker will be able to assist you with either decision you make to get you the best interest rate and term available at time of renewal.

Finance - Investing should be part of everyone’s personal portfolio. You don’t need to earn a lot of money to invest; you need to manage your money responsibly.

Some investments start at a minimum of twenty five dollars per month. You can invest in the Stock Market, Mutual Funds, Segregated Funds, GIC’s to name a few.

The concept of investments is to see your money grow. Most individuals use their investments as retirement savings and as such should have a long term goal in mind. Investments are seldom short term. However, it’s not uncommon to have short term goals such as saving for a vacation or education, but investing long term will have a greater impact on your savings as you accumulate interest on your money.

Your financial advisor or agent will be able to assist you and advise you on which investment is right for you.

Minister Alexander commends RCMP for laying citizenship and immigration fraud charges OTTAWA -- Canada’s Citizenship and Immigration Minister Chris Alexander today commended the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in Nova Scotia for a thorough investigation into alleged residence fraud. ““I want to applaud the outstanding work done by RCMP investigators in this matter,”” said Alexander. ““To those who would lie or misrepresent themselves to the Government, consider this a warning that we will continue to apply the full strength of Canadian law and crack down on citizenship fraud.””

Charged with a number of criminal code offences including misrepresentation and false representation, Basem Farid Awaad

of Bedford will appear in Halifax Provincial court on December 5th, 2013.

The Government of Canada offers a tip line through the CIC Call Centre where tips on suspected citizenship fraud cases may be reported.

Cases involving false representation, fraud or knowingly concealing material circumstances in the citizenship process – for example, pretending to be present in Canada to meet the residence requirements for obtaining citizenship – should be referred to the citizenship fraud tip line at CIC’s Call Centre at 1-888-242-2100 (in Canada only, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday). (CIC)

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

407ETRʼs parent company acknowledges things could have been handled better

Tammy Flores 407ETR Matters In July of this year, I wrote about an international protest for a member from UNITE, electrician and Shop Steward, Frank Morris. UNITE, a union in Europe, was advocating on Mr. Morris’ behalf. It was

claimed Frank Morris was wrongly fired and “blacklisted” for pointing out health and safety concerns while working on a job contracted by Ferrovial, 407ETR’s parent company, in Britain. After a year being off work, it was announced that he will be returning to work on Monday of next week.

In a joint statement from Unite and BFK (Bam-Ferrovial-Kier consortium building Crossrail a project in Europe) said, “There has been no contravention of the blacklisting regulations on the BFK Crossrail projects” and added, “BFK acknowledges that the conclusion of the EIS contract could have been handled better.”

Quoting the “Socialist Worker”

Dave Smith from the Blacklist Support Group said, “The legal system could not get him his job back, so we had to rely on our own strength. This was solidarity at its very best.”

There are many opinions on Unions here in Canada. I would say that in this case, the union worked very well for this man and his family. Now if only we had that kind of man power behind the 407ETR issues that exist here in Canada.

We wouldn’t have to wait for years for things to wind its way through the courts.

Please sign and share the petition http://tinyurl.com/ 407petition

Canadian experience class If you have work experience in Canada, either as a temporary foreign worker or through work permit options available to graduates of Canadian post-secondary institutions, you could qualify for permanent resident status in Canada.

There is an immigration category designed for people in these circumstances.

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) recognizes that you may already have the knowledge, skills and experience you need to succeed in Canada. The CEC allows temporary foreign workers and foreign stu-

dents who meet certain requirements to apply to stay in Canada permanently. The CEC is a unique program as your experience in Canada is a key selection factor when you apply for permanent residence.

To apply for permanent resident status through the CEC, individuals must be temporary foreign workers with at least two years of eligible work experience in Canada or, alternatively, must have graduated from an eligible post-secondary program in Canada with at least one year of eligible work experience after graduation.

In addition, they must also be able to communicate in one of Canada’s two official languages, although the required level of ability in English or French will vary depending on the type of work. For example, the language requirements for managerial and professional occupations are higher than the requirements for applicants who have been working in a technical occupation or in a skilled trade. More information about specific language requirements can be found on the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) website. (CIC)

Hiring temporary foreign workers Short-term labour shortages are a common occurrence in many sectors of Canada’s economy. They can affect workplaces that need employees with highly specialized skills, seasonal businesses such as tourism and agriculture, or entire regions during periods of rapid economic expansion, like the pre-Olympics construction boom in British Columbia or the development of the oil and gas sector in Alberta.

When employers look for workers, their first task is to find and hire Canadians or permanent residents for those positions.

If they are unsuccessful at finding available workers in Canada to do the job, the Government of Canada’s Temporary Foreign Work-

er Program (TFWP) can help them manage their short-term labour needs.

The TFWP is jointly managed by Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) and Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC). It gives employers from all types of businesses the opportunity to recruit foreign workers with the skills they need to address temporary shortages when they experience them.

Employers will usually need to get authorization from HRSDC first before they can hire a temporary foreign worker (TFW).

This is known as a positive “Labour Market Opinion” (LMO). A positive LMO will show that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill

the job and that no Canadian worker can do the job.

In most cases, TFWs need a permit to work in Canada and, depending on their country of residence, they may also need to obtain a temporary resident visa to enter Canada.

While in Canada, TFWs have the same rights as any other employee — for example, their pay must be consistent with the prevailing wages paid to Canadians in the same occupation in the same region, and working conditions for the occupation must meet the standards of the province in which they are employed. (CIC)

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SW Storm - One of the most versatile artistes in the Caribbean Sina-Wayne also known as SW Storm was born in London, England of Trinidadian parentage. SW Storm can be considered one of Trinidad & Tobago’s premiere cultural ambassadors. His first musical foray came in the area of Soca music. He brought his unique style and brand to the genre and out of this came a new sub genre... “Pop Soca”.

After 15 years of churning out soca and crossover hits, SW Storm officially jumped in the chutney market with his 2010 release “De Hammer”! This track immediately signaled his intent on changing the game in yet another genre of music.

“De Hammer” gave SW Storm a whole new diasporas to explore, and explore he did, performing in every major chutney soca arena and festival. With another 2 massive chutney soca releases,”By De Bar” & “Mrs. Walker”, SW Storm is set to raise the bar in indo music and give the industry a mainstream appeal. His career releases have included hits such as “Nice”, “Show Dem”, “Wildness”,

“Bombay Girl”, “One More”, “Sailing”, “J’ouvert Morning”, “Carnival”, “De Hammer”, “By De Bar”, “Mrs. walker”, “Rollin” & “Yuh Mudda Can”.

SW Storm is not limited to any one type of event! He has done it all! From private events to the festivals and concerts worldwide, Storm also undertakes projects / youth programs delivering workshops teaching song writing and performance skills.

Storm is also writing for TV and has recorded two theme songs for BBC TV in the United Kingdom.

Watch out!! There will be no calm before or after this Storm!

Basil Price AKA Bounty Killer Bounty Killer (born Rodney Basil Price , 1971 in Kingston, Jamaica) is a Jamaican reggae and dancehall deejay who is the founder of a dancehall collective, known as The Alliance.

Early life and career Price moved to Riverton City at an early age, along with his mother and eight siblings.

His father owned and ran the Black Scorpio sound system and Price started his musical career as a sound system deejay in his early teens. When aged fourteen, Price was shot by a stray bullet during a gunfight between rival political factions, and while convalescing in hospital decided on the name Bounty Killer, and planned to become a voice for the underprivileged. After recovering, he increased his performances on a greater number of sound systems, and turned his attention towards recording.

1990s During the early 1990s, Bounty Killer was encouraged by his friend and deejay Boom Dandymite to hang around the studio of producer King Jammy in Kingston. This lead to Bounty Killer getting the chance to record for King Jammy, the first session being in Spring 1992. One of Bounty Killer’s first tunes was the “Coppershot”, which Jammy was unwilling to release due to its lyric glorifying gun culture. Jammy’s brother Uncle T disagreed and released the single himself; It became a hit in Jamaica and was heard by New York-based Johnny Wonder, a pivotal figure in North American Dancehall Reggae, who instantly recognized the potential of its hardcore appeal to the urban markets Stateside.

Beginning in 1993, Bounty Killer became a household name in Jamaica due to his well received performance at the annual hardcore festival Sting held in the days after Christmas.. Bounty Killer has tried to protect his individuality and this has caused many problems both on and off stage with various singers. Bounty Killer and Merciless got into a fist fight on stage during the Sting festival in 1997, and made headlines throughout Jamaica for the rivalry with Beenie Man as both claim that the other has stolen each oth-

ers act. They settled their differences after both realized the negative effect their feud was having on the industry.

He increased control over his output in 1995 by leaving Jammy and setting up his own Scare Dem Productions company and Priceless Records label.

During the 1990s, Bounty Killer voiced for several producers and labels in Jamaica releasing songs such as “Defend the Poor”, “Mama”, “Book, Book, Book”, “Babylon System” and “Down in the Ghetto”. The 1990s was also the decade in which Bounty Killer became known in USA and in Europe and ended up with several combinations with big artists like Busta Rhymes, Masta Killa, The Fugees, Wyclef Jean, Mobb Deep, Capone-N-Noreaga, Swizz Beatz and AZ. In the mid-1990s, Bounty Killer began releasing albums, with four released in 1994. His 1996 album My Xperience was hugely successful, spending six months on the Billboard reggae chart.

In 1998, contributed the song “Deadly Zone” to the album “Blade: Music from and Inspired by the Motion Picture”. Although on the soundtrack album, the song did not feature in the film “Blade”.

Bounty Killer expressed disdain for popular rap, which he called “embarrass-

ing to reggae,” even while collaborating with Wu Tang Clan, Mobb Deep and others he considers hardcore.

2000s In 2001, Bounty Killer collaborated with No Doubt on their “Hey Baby” single. Further success followed with albums such as Ghetto Dictionary Volume I: Art of War and Ghetto Dictionary Volume II: Mystery, the latter receiving a Grammy nomination. In 2006, Bounty Killer signed with VP Records and the compilation album Nah No Mercy - The Warlord Scrolls was released on November 7, 2006. He has been credited with having inspired many young artists such as Vybz Kartel, Mavado & Elephant Man and several other members of The Alliance.

In 2003, Bounty Killer canceled two of his concerts in Britain because he feared arrest for his inciting of homophobia and hatred of homosexuals. His use of words calling for murder to the LGBT community raised fears among the community and Out Rage! magazine complained to the police.

In 2009 Bounty Killer released two vicious diss track targeting his once protege Vybz Kartel.

TORONTO CARIBBEAN

Wednesday, September 11, 2013 23

Grow your business, 140 characters at a time 400 million tweets per day and 200 million active users!

Julie Rambali Business Development I’m sure you’ve heard about Twitter and were hesitant at first as to how it can benefit your business. At first it can seem overwhelming considering you may already have a Facebook page however, with 400 million Tweets a day and 200 million active users, 60% of Twitter users log in via mobile devices, people turn to Twitter to bring them closer to the things they care about, whether it’s the news that affects their lives or the businesses down the block.

On Twitter, people talk about what they care about and what’s happening around them right now, including your business.

This gives you powerful context to connect your message to what’s most meaningful to your customers in real time. Engaging with real-time Tweets can influence conversations in a way that can help build your business.

Listen and learn. See what your competitors are tweeting about or search for industry keywords to listen and gather market intelligence. It’s an easy way to get insights that you can use to inform your strategy. Grow your business by running exciting promotions which will strengthen your brand and engage with your customers.

Your voice can affect the way customers communicate with you on Twitter.

What you say, how you say it and how often you respond, all have a tremendous impact on customer relationships.

Be yourself, be authentic. There’s

no need to be overly formal on Twitter. Your Tweets should reflect the individuality and personality of your business. People respond best to friendly, conversational Tweets. Write a Tweet like you’re having a conversation with a good friend. Strive for a genuine, approachable communication style. Stay away from “marketing speak” - it’ll go a long way in making your voice your own.

Stand out. It’s a crowded digital world out there. Use Twitter to share unique information about your company that your customers can’t find elsewhere, like behindthe-scenes photos, discounts or new product previews.

Reply when people tweet about you. Favorite and retweet positive messages, and thank those who praise you. Keep in mind that retweets can also represent your voice and brand personality. Promptly address critical Tweets about your business in a calm, helpful manner.

Make it shareable. What makes people share? Funny, helpful, newsworthy or inspiring content. When you write a Tweet, imagine how your followers will use it. How will it help them? Every Tweet should have a purpose. People tend to share positive Tweets that solve a problem, answer a question, entertain or inspire. The most retweeted content tends to contain links, photos, videos or quotes. When you tweet something interesting, it has the potential to travel to many prospective customers.

The water cooler used to be the place where people gathered to talk about TV. Now, 95% of the public social conversation around TV happens on Twitter so happy tweeting and don’t forget that you can target your demographic by keywords in timeline.

You can target by interests, geography, gender, and/or users similar to your followers.

– Twitter.com

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Your Horoscope - September 11th 2013 Aries Horoscope (March 21-April 20): Thursday’s new moon provides fresh fuel for work or a fix-it project. As of the weekend, you’ll start to hit an upswing. By next week, you’ll find you are better able to get into the routine.

Mercury in Libra, starting Monday, puts you back into social circulation. Venus in Scorpio, starting late Wednesday, increases the focus on a financial or professional timetable.

Libra Horoscope (Sept. 23Oct. 22): Despite this being a good weekend to kick back and let serendipity take you where it may, a building aspect between Mars and Saturn can keep a serious spin on life through early next week. Starting Monday, Mercury in Libra should get you moving faster. Venus exits Libra on Tuesday but provides you with more motivation, dedication, and financial potential as it moves through Scorpio.

Taurus Horoscope (April 21-May 21): Your opportunities and potentials are greater than you can see now. Have trust and stay receptive, open, and hopeful. Social, romantic, or on your own, Friday/Saturday works like a charm.

The start of the new week brings you more to work with and toward. Mercury and Venus put an added focus on grooming, gaining, and maintaining support, both on and off the job.

Scorpio Horoscope (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): One thing builds on another. Aim for a short-range goal or more immediate target and it will set you up for the next. Practical measures and a good work strategy are your most effective tools. Through Monday, you may have to work to put on the show, but once Venus enters Scorpio on Tuesday, more attention and favour come your way naturally.

Gemini Horoscope (May 23-June 20): Consider Thursday’s new moon in Virgo your fresh-start initiative and promise yourself that you are going to get down to business. Once you make the commitment, you’ll find that making it work for yourself isn’t as hard as you anticipated. In fact, Mercury and Venus help you achieve a better equilibrium and stay focused and on-task. Friday/ Saturday, pleasure beckons.

Sagittarius Horoscope (Nov. 22-Dec. 20): You may have to work for it a little harder now, but you should be able to get yourself there.

Thursday’s new moon requires that you stay responsible and practical, but it will reward you for a job well done. On Friday/ Saturday, connect, indulge, and conjure.

As of the start of next week, Mercury and Venus set life onto an easier flow.

Cancer Horoscope (June 21-July 20): Aim to get yourself better informed and educated. Thursday’s new moon suggests it’s wise to be a detail buff and to keep talking, negotiating, or asking questions until you feel satisfied and secure. Don’t wait until something breaks down or proves obsolete; stay a step ahead and upgrade where you can.

Starting Wednesday, Venus in Scorpio enhances your opportunity, options, and odds.

Leo Horoscope (July 21Aug. 22): The new moon in Virgo can draw attention to shortfalls or the work that lies ahead, but it can also move you onto a more productive track. Mars in Leo keeps you on a steady fresh-fuel supply through mid October. Even so, you can feel under pressure until Mars and Saturn square it off next Monday.

Virgo Horoscope (Aug. 23Sept. 22): Thursday’s new moon is full of promise, but it’s up to you to make full use of it. How? By giving something or someone new a shot. (By the way, that someone new may be you.) Mercury moving into Libra on Monday and Venus into Scorpio on Tuesday helps you create more inner accord and a more dynamic outer presentation.

Capricorn Horoscope (Dec. 21-Jan. 20): Virgo month is always when you feel at the top of your game. Through mid October, Mars in Leo keeps your “can do” and “I deserve” right where they should be. Through Monday, there’s a reality to process, but overall the new moon cycle is a confidence builder.

Next week, Mercury and Venus help you gain ground.

Aquarius Horoscope (Jan. 21-Feb. 18): The new moon in Virgo calls for you to address what’s necessary and not put it off any longer.

Through Monday, you could meet with inner resistance or find you have a limited ability to get through to someone, but don’t give up; time and conscious effort are needed. Past Monday/Tuesday, you’ll see things start to add up.

Pisces Horoscope (Feb. 18-March 20): Set a goal and go. Although they’re on a pressure surge through Monday, Mars and Saturn provide you with the determination and know-how to reach your objective. Mercury in Libra increases financial opportunity and relationship accord. Loaning you more confidence, sway, and charisma, Venus in Scorpio starting Tuesday helps you create a stronger, more effective impact.

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How NOT to network - Part I Please, don’t be THIS guy!

Tina Dietz Business Development Ah, networking. Do you love it? Is it your favorite thing to walk into a room full of people, most of whom you don’t know, and start conversations? For most people…not so much. There are some odd folks (like myself) who would attend a networking daily if we could because we really do love it, but that is generally not the case. After all, in our ideal world our ideal clients just find us and call us ready to register or buy as if by magic! Since that isn’t generally the case, and because there really is no substitute for word of mouth marketing, it’s up to you to

make the most of your networking events and the valuable time you spend attending these events.

Consider this a public service announcement. Please, don’t be THIS guy.

What guy? Let’s start with these four poor souls who could use a little help with their networking.

1. Wallflower Guy: The native habitat of Wallflower Guy is against any wall in a room, usually pressed tightly against that wall to the point where he looks as though he’s trying to melt into it. Eye contact is scarce at best, and you may notice a good deal of fidgeting with his business cards, a drink, his glasses, or his phone. Wallflower Guy makes you wonder why he is there if he’s trying to disappear, and he may even spread a sense of nervousness in the room.

2. Shover Guy: Far more aggressive than Wallflower Guy, Shover Guy is found about

6-12 inches from your nose. Although Shover Guy may not talk about their business, he is insistent in getting his business card into your hand, or pocket, or purse, or wherever he can fit it in. Shover Guy’s agenda is to hand out as many cards as possible in the shortest amount of time, and it’s possible that he may be timing himself or attempting to beat his a personal best record of some type.

Shover Guy may be the only person Wallflower Guy interacts with during the event.

3. Yapper Guy: WARNING! Interacting with Yapper Guy may cause repetitive motion injury from excessive nodding, since all you can do with Yapper Guy is nod in response to his non-stop stream of consciousness talking. While the average human being can go a whopping 14-17 seconds without interrupting someone (yes, most people don’t have much of a tolerance for listening), Yapper Guy rarely, if ever, asks you something about yourself and is totally oblivious

to the glazed over look in your eyes.

4. Jargon Guy: Jargon Guy speaks 1-2 feet over your head, leaving you grasping for some kind of toehold in the conversation, attempting to decipher his acronyms and industry-specific language like Indiana Jones trying to find the Ark of the Covenant. Side effects of talking to Jargon Guy include confusion, disorientation, and light to moderate feelings of embarrassment. Embarrassment lasting longer than 4 hours may require medical attention. Ok, not really, but Jargon Guy has an uncanny knack for leaving people feeling like they are a little, well….dumb.

Do you know these guys? ARE you one of these guys? If you find yourself not being effective at networking, it really does pay to be honest with yourself and work on the networking skills that are going to land you clients and customers, improve your reputation, and elevate your standing in the community as a business leader.

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Free Free Financial, Jamaican Real Real Estate & Mortgage Seminar Seminar Date: Time: Place:

Thursday April 25th 2013 Wednesday, September 25th 2013 6:30pm at 6:30 to pm9:00pm – 10pm Courtyard Brampton Marriott in Brampton - 90 Biscayne Crescent, ON L6W 4S1 (Steeles & 410 Hwy)

Find out: - How can I benefit from owning real estate in Jamaica?

- How to acquire real estate in Jamaica?

- How to qualify for a mortgage in Jamaica?

- Everything you need to know about buying real estate in Jamaica?

- What types of properties are available for Purchase?

- Find out about joint Financing options (JNBS, NHT, etc.)

- Learn about increasing your credit score

Call direct the Toronto to register 416-784-9657 or RSVP via email: jnbstoronto@jnbs.com RSVP (416)to784-9657 oroffice register at http://jnbs-toronto.ticketleap.com/jn-real-estate-seminar Brought to you by Jamaica National Building Society Toronto Rep Office